Back to the simple life

The hectic holidays and overall state of the world right now definitely takes its toll. That's why I think it's more important than ever to create a haven that is orderly and beautiful. Try to keep possessions limited to only those that are beautifully designed and functional (often things well designed are beautiful and functional.) Hold on to items that have always been there for you and stood the test of time. If possible, repair them if needed and treat them well. Opt for natural or recycled materials, as it will make your home healthier, and give you peace of mind, therefore making you healthier. I know this is all easier said then done, and unfortunately natural, well made items are often costly (but a good investment.) If this really speaks to you I also recommend reading this post on Wabi Sabi - http://decorology.blogspot.com/2009/04/new-life-style-im-into-wabi-sabi.html Also,you might consider looking into feng shui. The main thing I need to work on is creating to-do lists and staying focused. It takes practice, but I'm getting better at it, and I've definitely found that when I have an actual, tactile to-do list and keep it at hand, moving from one task to the next, I get so much done and feel great at the end of the day. Okay, I'm ranting. The point of all this was to introduce you to the simple-life inspiring Brooklyn store, Brook Farm General Store. Remember this image from my autumn inspiration post?

The image is from Brook Farm General store, and I thought it warranted a cyber-visit. I used to live in the Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where it's located, but I think I moved before they arrived.

Lamp Gras, the original architect light.

Look at little Nutmeg on the left, so cute!


Isn't the shop beautiful?
They also sell vintage finds.

These brushes have an interesting story -
"These beautiful brushes are handmade in Sweden from local wood and all natural fibers. Traditionally, in Europe, visually impaired craftsmen and women would make brooms and brushes by hand. Iris Handverk has continued this craft, designing brushes each with their own individual function.

These are the most comfortable, effective brushes we have ever used, and the fact that they are part of a centuries old tradition only makes them more desirable. The type of wood used for the handle and the natural fibers used for the bristles are chosen based on the designated purpose of each brush, so you can be sure that you are getting the best possible tool for your specific job."

What do you think? See anything you like?

Visit the Brook Farm General store website

Cozy autumn interiors (real interiors!), and some easy feng shui ideas

I was recently introduced to Manoblue Interior Design & Feng Shui, and I wanted to share with you a few images from the portfolio which just really spoke to me. As you may know, I really like real, lived in images of homes over staged environments any day. They're inspiring because you know a real person lives there, and it just gives me hope!

I ADORE this bedroom! The fireplace, the tall pillar candles beside it, the wood bedframe, the corner window with the reading nook! This is my dream bedroom! Even better is that it's real and attainable.

This hall with the artwork is so welcoming. This is what feng shui is all about and why it makes so much sense.




See more at http://www.manobluedesign.com. Marie also has lots of helpful feng shui tips on her blog - such as this one, which I'll be reading, on bringing money!

Do you like Vera Bradley? If so you're in luck with this sale!

Ru la la is having a very big Vera Bradley sale - we're talking 3 pages of bags from wallet sized to duffel bags - and they're at really cheap prices, like $35 for a small duffel. In order to get free membership and get in on the sale use this link: http://www.ruelala.com/invite/decorology
Enjoy!







http://www.ruelala.com/invite/decorology

Lovely, inspirational fall images from some of my favorite blogs

Hope you enjoy some of the inspiration and prettiness I've found on some of my favorite blogs!

This image from Brook Farm General Store.

ahhh...we've started building fires in the evening and they're wonderful

This is a great modern elegant pattern


via Mochatini


Such a lovely autumn image!

I love seeing real, lived in interiors like this living room.
via Lovely Happenings



I think these chairs would be such a lovely solution for a wedding reception or ceremony, they're also something you could do yourself
via Deco and Design

Modern day French interiors that still have that effortless glamour

It never fails that French interiors, through the ages, have always had a certain...je ne sais quoi. Their beauty and glamor seems so effortless and natural! Therefore, French interiors make for excellent eye candy - enjoy!



This bedroom has a palette I would never come up with on my own, but I think the effect is really nice and great for a bedroom.

A contemporary twist on that never fail crisp white and blue.


The above two images are actually from a home in Tuscany, but it was renovated and restored by a French architect. I think it's a nice blend, and I love the soft, earthy palette.
All above images via Marie Claire Maison

I really like the look of stacks and stack of books.

What a perfect place for an afternoon nap


via Interiors

via The Magazine Antiques