Styled & Raw

When I saw this patio yesterday, something about it touched me...

It's clearly styled with intention (color coordinated floors, chairs, and coffee table), yet raw at the same time (branches and debris, aged surfaces). It reminds me of the sort of loveliness I saw living in Italy - effortless beauty lending itself with grace to the bend of time and change. Form always following function and an enigma of inherent style.

*image via Frank Feature discovered at Coco+Kelley

Quote of the Week

"Purple is the best color for outside. It's the complement to green, and it's the color of shadows - just look at Impressionist paintings." -Tom Scheerer

*patio designed by Scheerer via House Beautiful

Shutter Love

Just two nights ago I had some girlfriends over when a designer friend of mine and I started discussing decor options for my kitchen. I have a big, tall, long white wall that needs to be filled asap! She suggested a series of leaning window shutters and then hanging pictures on them to add architectural detail to the room. This morning I just happened upon this photo with that very look. Don't you love it when that happens?

I love the idea! Not only are shutters pretty to look at, they're a fast and simple way to cover lots of wall space, especially vertically. And it shouldn't be too hard (or expensive) to find them at your local architectural salvage store. Here's some more shutter inspiration!

*images via Velvet & Linen and David Sheilds