IDILLUC

Pretty in Pink.

2012-02-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

Credits: Restoration Hardware, Farrow & Ball, Pottery Barn, West Elm, Elle Decor, Ann Sacks...

Your house is nearly perfect - your living room has a brilliant AND beautiful layout to host your friends, Elle Decor inspired you to paint your bedroom a color you're crazy for - even your kitchen is updated, with freshly painted cabinets and state of the art appliances.

And then...there's that bathroom. Vintage, 1950's. Pink. Square. Tile. Ew.

The epitome of a road block, your creative juices have run dry and just the thought of the budget you'd need to remove that ancient PINK tile stops you in your tracks.

...why not embrace the original owner's vision? Instead of calling a contractor and going through the mess and cost of a remodel, why not pick up a can of paint? With the right backdrop, you could bring that dated tile into this century.

For this project, we'd suggest a high-gloss, charcoal grey. Fresh and at the same time elegant, the cool undertones of the grey will bring out the clean white undertones of the pink. Add to the equation some sparkle (chrome fixtures and glass accents) and a choice selection of deco-inspired accessories (think silver, square, clean lines) and you've paved the way for a sophisticated, timeless bathroom that's both glamorous and masculine.

Adding a few fun modern finds (bath rugs in fun patterns, glass accessories, artwork in white lacquer frames) that can be changed frequently will guarantee a bathroom forever in style.

The Condo.

2012-01-26T14:53:00.000-08:00

Credits: Grohe, Samsung, International Flooring, Ikea
Purchasing a condominium or house as an investment can be a great way to diversify your savings. A long-term investment may come with the opportunity for remodeling. When updating, it can be helpful to consider the following:

A. Aesthetic - Do the interior finishes suit the style of the building? Can it blend with a variety of styles and furnishings?

B. Maintenance - Will it hold up? Selecting quality cabinetry, appliances and paints that have tough finishes can save on repair and remodeling costs down the road.

C. Value - Taking the time to select finishes and fixtures that are slightly more original and upgraded can mean an extra tag line in your advertising - who doesn't want to rent a place with noted "designer finishes" or "custom cabinetry?"

We're currently updating a condo kitchen and living room. Here's a sneak peak at our inspiration board - we aim to create at timeless yet streamlined look with light accents (appliances and countertops) to open up the space. While the cabinetry has a simple design with traditional Shaker roots, the hardware and fixtures add a modern and upgraded touch. Caesarstone countertops in a carerra-marble inspired style will hold up over time, softened by a matte-white subway tile backsplash. Seagrass wall-to-wall carpeting in the living room is an economical and "green" solution to the HOA by-laws (no hardwood allowed) and will compliment the travertine tile in the kitchen.

Leather: The perfect accessory for every occasion...

2012-01-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

Credits: Idilluc Design, Bottega Veneta, Fiorentini & Baker, Make Smith, John Saladino, a.b.k custom leather craft

At Idilluc, we are rooted in quality - we value well crafted, timeless designs that can last a lifetime. Leather can withstand the test of time and (in most applications) only gets more beautiful with age.

The look and the feel of leather can add a luxurious touch to just about everything. A sofa, tray, pair of chopsticks. A thick leather bound wine list may take your mind to a cavernous wine room in Italy, a well worn pair of cowboy boots might remind you of the dust and sun in the wild west...

While nothing can beat aged, mahogany brown leather, we're looking forward to seeing more accessories in some of our favorite colorways. Check out our inspiration board for the spring season:

Below are links to just a few of our favorite lifestyle brands that carry exquisite leather goods.

http://www.bottegaveneta.com/
http://makesmith.com/
http://www.hermes.com/
http://www.henrybeguelin.it/
http://www.fiorentini-baker.com/
http://www.dillonrogers.com/

Admiring vs. Inhabiting Modern Interiors

2011-10-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

Credits: The Walrus Magazine

An inspiring case study on the reality of living within modern, minimalist, streamlined interiors.

MODERN INCONVENIENCES FROM THE WALRUS

James Perse

2011-10-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

Credits: James Perse Online

His stores call to mind architecture of John Pawson, who we love. Plentiful sunshine highlights a streamlined selection of building materials and causal furnishings. This minimalism extends into the clothing line, with a muted color palette and uncomplicated, incredibly comfortable styles, SO California.

We love his latest move toward a "limited edition" lifestyle line - furnishings aside, we're a tad obsessed with his bikes - who knew a beach cruiser could look so sexy in matte black?

Canopy Beds: Light and Bright

2011-09-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

It's tough to beat the romance of a beautiful canopy bed. The architecture and scale of these bedframes can create a cozy retreat in a large space or add drama to a smaller room. Frames in light finishes feel fresh instead of heavy and can coordinate with a variety of bed linens.

A few of our favorite finds this month are simple in structure and design and allow you, the designer, to admire the beautiful frame on it's own, or add curtains for a softer approach.

Can't you hear the ocean in the background and feel the breeze as it rustles the soft sheer curtains while you snuggle up in your duvet?

IKEA

Edland Bedframe

ANTHROPOLOGIE HOME

Woodland Slumber Canopy

BALLARD DESIGN

Francesco Four Poster Bed

ROOM AND BOARD
Portico Bed

BED DRAPERY IDEAS
Sheer drapery panels can add an inviting element to any of these beds. Installation with rings lends itself to a more traditional look, while drapery with tabs or ties are more casual yet just as elegant.

RESTORATION HARDWARE
Open Weave Sheers

IKEA

Wilma Curtains

GARNET HILL
Eileen Fisher Linen Curtain

SALADINO VILLA

2011-03-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Images: Susan Burns, Coldwell Banker Website

John Saladino's eclectic style combines classical principals of color, scale and lighting with modern and vintage elements to create one of a kind interiors. When studied in parts or as whole projects, there is not one detail that is missed and every view is in itself a moment, a vignette.

Truly indescribable in words, inspiration can be found at his website, or at the Saladino Villa, for sale in Montecito, California (shown below).

More Information

TED

2011-01-25T13:43:00.000-08:00

TED (Technology Entertainment and Design) is a conference held in California.

A select group of 1,000 guests (ranging from political figures to scientists to artists) are invited to attend and listen to speakers.

It's Larry Paige and Sergey Brin (Google founders), Matt Groenig (The Simpsons), Cameron Sinclair (architect), Penelope Boston (scientist), Nobel Prize winners, etc.

Given just 18 minutes, speakers are invited to present their ideas and engage their audiences on their topic of choice, often including music, economic analysis, science, leadership, architecture, etc.

It's JJ Abrams (producer/writer), Simon Sinek (leadership expert), Al Gore (politician/environmentalist), Jeff Han (Scientist), etc.

The event is "curated" by Chris Anderson, with a mission in "leveraging the power of ideas to change the world."

Truly inspiring. And totally available to view online.

Check it out.

www.ted.com

Our Favorites:
Simon Sinek - How Great Leaders Inspire Action

Cameron Sinclair - Open Source Architecture

Joshua Prince-Ramus - Seattle's Library

John Wooden - True Success

Jeff Han - Breakthrough Touchscreen (2006)

El Gym. The A-Listers.

2011-01-10T23:36:00.000-08:00

Credits: Equinox, Tom Kundig, Sports Club LA, etc.

It's a study in contrast - heavy equipment sitting on soft rubber flooring, stark white walls against natural wood floors, high energy workouts next to zen zones.

That's why we love them.

Standard gyms focus on the basics - commercial grade machines, maximum occupancy, high traffic materials; those that go beyond consider lifestyle and experience more closely, resulting in an energizing and inspiring experience - the "A List" gym. In this post, we focus on the elements that take these gyms to the next level. Next post, we will focus on applying these ideas to your own home gym (yes, even in your studio apartment).

STYLES
Some of our favorite A-Lister styles fall under the category of industrial chic, inspired by architects and designers such as Tom Kundig and Frank Gehry. Think exposed brick, black rubber, cement, stainless steel, lots of glass windows and natural lighting...

PALETTE
This is where you can add warmth to a space. Below are a few of our favorite color combinations we spotted:

ENERGIZING

FRESH

COOL

NEUTRAL:

MATERIALS
Rubber, wood, brick, cement, mosaic tiles....sterile and clean environments that don't hold odors and can handle the masses.

LOBBY
Ideally, a clean simply furnished area. The front desk is the most essential part of a gym's aesthetic - this area should set the trend and relate to the rest of its facilities.

THE EQUIPMENT
Beauty bells stacked neatly, cardio machines all in a row, yoga mats rolled in the corner. Attention to these details - especially tidiness and streamlined organization - sets high-end A-List gyms apart from the ordinary.

YOGA STUDIO
Wood floors, low lighting and a space that feels endless in size are the most popular.

SCENT
We love a gym that smells fresh. A good ventilation system is key, but so are choices in candles and room sprays. Think fluffy clean towels or even just fresh, crisp air on a brisk day....

Top 5: Drapery Panels + Accessories

2010-12-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

Credits: Pottery Barn, Ikea, Costplus World Market, West Elm, Bed, Bath & Beyond

A quick way to freshen up a space or add privacy, window treatments can take a space from drab to divine in a matter of minutes.

Here are our top 5 steals of the moment:

PANELS

IKEA STOCKHOLM "BLAD"

A great midcentury print that freshens a space with its white background, coordinates beautifully with wood tones and neutral walls.

***Look for these in the office scenes of Mad Men, they've used all 3 colors!

POTTERY BARN "CAMERON COTTON" DRAPE

Good quality at a great price for an essential basic. Easily customized with tape trim or combined with a colorful sheer.

Too heavy? Their Casual Cotton Drapes are also a steal!

WEST ELM "SILK PAISLY" PANELS

Too sheer? Add blackout lining.

COST PLUS WORLD MARKET "BATIK PAISLEY VOILE"

Adds a casual layer of color to a pair of solid panels.

BED BATH AND BEYOND "SILK SOIREE" WINDOW PANELS

A great basic to have, for either hiding an open closet or adding a touch of luxury to a space. Various colors - our favorites? Champagne and Chocolate.

HARDWARE

WEST ELM "CYLINDRICAL METAL ROD"

Available in 3 finishes, this sleek, modern design is very chic and blends within many interior styles.

SMITH & NOBLE TURNED WOOD COLLECTION

Simple, classic designs in high quality wood are especially beautiful when paired with silk curtain panels.

SMITH & NOBLE RIDGEFIELD COLLECTION

Slightly more traditional designs in high quality materials in a variety of finishes

IKEA CURTAIN WIRE

An inexpensive and chic option for modern and industrial spaces, these wires can be installed to accommodate a variety of window sizes and setups. Can be hidden with a valance for a more traditional look or paired with pocket-style panels for a more streamlined version. Can be used indoor and outdoor, works well for room dividers.

KEYWORDS

*Blackout Liner - Great to use in bedrooms and areas with heavy sun

*Sheers - Can look beautiful when paired with heavier panels, allows privacy during the day

*Double Rods - Allow sheers and drapery panels to act separately.

*Panel/Hanging Types: Rings vs. Grommets vs. Pocket vs. Pinch Pleat - All have their benefits:

Rings

Slide easily across rods, can add a more decorative touch to your windows.

Grommets

Add a more industrial feel.

Pocket

Most simple style - best for stationary panels.

Pinch Pleats

A style of panel, commonly hung on hidden rings

HANGING HINTS

Try to hang your curtain rod 2"-3" below the crown molding or ceiling; this will give the illusion of higher ceilings and larger, taller windows.

Celebrate.

2010-12-24T21:15:00.000-08:00

Credits: H&M

Celebrate the holidays inspired by H&M's new home line. Launched in Scandanavia and coming to the US soon!

Midcentury Star Hal Levitt

2010-12-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

Credits: Curbed LA, Everett Gridley, Huffington Post, Levitt+Moss Architects, Architectural Digest

Most noted for his design of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Building in LA and the Riviera Hotel in Los Vegas, Harold Levitt led a successful career as an architect and designer in Southern California, beginning in the 1950's. Within the popular mid-century post and beam architecture, we admire his sometimes daring use of hard angles and expanses of glass, often times creating visual vignettes in even the most unexpected spaces. In an effort to bring the outdoors inside and maximize natural light, Levitt used these exaggerated windows to take advantage of views and lush landscapes. He paid special attention to pools and courtyards, creating ideal spaces for entertaining and relaxing . The firm, now Levitt+Moss Architects, continues to instill these philosophies within their work.

Top 5 + 5 Basic Dinnerware: All White + Muted Colors

2010-11-25T22:01:00.000-08:00

Credits: Ikea, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, World Market Cost Plus, Heath Ceramics, Williams Sonoma, Bloomingdales, Calvin Klein, Stoneware

We all eat, and most of us in our own humble abodes. Therefore, you've gotta have it: from a single set of dishes (even just for take-out) to formal place settings for 24 guests, we've selected our favorite sets of dinnerware that will give you the most bang for your buck. Each of these collections will provide simple yet elegant style to take you from casual snacks to formal meals.

TOP 5 ALL WHITE OPTIONS

IKEA 365+ DINNERWARE

Our favorite dinnerware set of them all, this basic, neutral and good quality china is easy to replace and can be mixed and matched with a huge selection of pieces from Ikea.

CRATE & BARREL "ASPEN" DINNERWARE

Simple lines and a beautiful gloss finish. We love the mugs in this set - holds a nice sized cup of tea or coffee and very comfortable for large hands.

POTTERY BARN WHITE DINNERWARE

Slightly decorative, the bowls in this set are great for soups and noodles. You can mix with other PB sets and the smaller mugs are chic for afternoon tea.

WILLIAMS SONOMA "EVERYDAY RESTAURANT PORCELAIN"

Made to withstand restaurant traffic, the pieces in this set are heavy-duty and tough to chip.

COST PLUS WORLD MARKET "COUPE" DINNERWARE

Soft round edges and many size options make this a great staple for any household.

TOP 5 MUTED COLORS

CHEZ PANISSE BY HEATH CERAMICS

Our top choice in neutral colored dinnerware, the Chez Panisse line was designed by infamous chef and restaurant owner Alice Waters. The line mixes will with other pieces, seemingly casual on its own and then fancy when mixed with more decorative table linens and stemware, our definition of chic. Our favorite color? Cardoon...

JASPER CONRAN CASUAL DINNERWARE

British lifestyle designer Jasper Conran has teamed up with Wedgwood to design a number of china patterns. These ceramics are sturdy, produced in a very traditional manner, yet the pale colors and clean lines take away the "heavy" feeling traditionally associated with earthenware.

CALVIN KLEIN HOME "BASSO" DINNERWARE

Our favorite design element of these pieces is the glossy interior and matte exterior finish. Ash is a great color, but the line is available in an assortment of other beautiful colors.

STONEWARE?!

Remember the heavy plates your grandmother served holiday dinners? Or the first set of china you bought when you got your first apartment? Stoneware remains one of the most popular dinnerware in the US and with so much competition these days, they've launched a few beautiful sets to compete in the market.

STONEWARE DYNASTY MATTE

A combination of mid-century modern and art deco, this collection brings a punch of modern to your table with delicate lines and soft finish, feminine and masculine all at once.

ZEN KHAKI STONEWARE

Simple and subtle, these pieces would look beautiful displayed in open shelves or used as serving pieces mixed in with any of the collections above.

Travel the world.

2010-11-10T22:32:00.000-08:00

Credits: Aman Resorts

Just exploring the website takes you around the world. Aman Resorts is a small collection of very private luxury resorts, unmatched in it's dedication to nature and ambience. Meticulous attention to detail and a philosophy of "less is more" are guiding principals that have led this resort chain to earn a reputation as a world leader in lifestyle and service . As designers, we are inspired by even the smallest elements - centuries old friezes, uninterrupted views, lush gardens, strategically placed lanterns - all are seamlessly worked into each unique experience. Special attention is paid to the culture and lifestyles surrounding each resort as architects restore and design environmentally conscious structures and landscapes. Inside, curated environments speak to a contemporary lifestyle and provide guests a feeling of inner peace and soothing comfort.

We thought we'd share a handful of our favorite images in an effort to take you around the world and inspire your senses - enjoy!

The Daybed.

2010-10-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

Image Credits: DWR, Restoration Hardware, Ikea, Room & Board, West Elm, Ballard Designs, CB2, Plummers

Always a tough subject - that extra bedroom. What to do? You'd love to host guests, but you'd also love an office. Or maybe a gym...or library. A classic solution: the daybed.

Here is a selection - ranging from traditional to modern - that we think speak to the purpose of space-saving while keeping in mind comfort for the occasional house guest.

SIMPLE AND SLEEK: MIDCENTURY BLISS

This collection of daybeds offer an alternative to the plush pillows and duvets that are associated with your standard bed. And don't let the simplicity fool you - topped with a featherbed and duvet, you're guest will want to extend their stay.

Midcentury Sofa by Urban Outfitters - Available in 3 colors

Case Study Daybed by DWR

CB2 Flex Sofa

Room and Board Jasper Studio Chaise

WOOD FRAME OPTIONS

For something a little more decorative, these pieces feel slightly more traditional and bed-like while still offering the equal comfort as sofas.

West Elm Overlapping Squares Daybed

Marston Daybed by Restoration Hardware

OPTIONS W/ STORAGE

It doesn't get better than this - storage + sofa + guest bed - what more could you ask for?!

Plummers Serendipity Daybed

Ikea Hemnes Daybed

Pottery Barn Stratton Daybed

We especially LOVE the tufted cushion on this daybed - very cozy!

UPHOLSTERED OPTIONS

Super cozy, a soft alternative to the above options. Can be reupholstered over time to fit into the aesthetic of any home, especially with the clean lines of these options...

Upholstered Daybed by Ballard Designs

Restoration Hardware Belgian Track Daybed

Axel Vervoordt Howard Daybeds

BANGLES, BAUBLES, BUREAUS

2010-10-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

Image Credits: Tiffany, Bvlgari, Ippolita, HVDS, Ralph Pucci

Though our team is dedicated to interior design and architectural elements, we can't help but share our appreciation of well crafted pieces designed by artists specializing in areas outside of

jewelry yet excelling in this alternative form...or vice versa. We've included a few of our latest finds below....

FRANK GEHRY FOR TIFFANY

An inspirational architect known throughout the world for is modern approach to building and design, each piece in Frank Gehry's collection for Tiffany imbues a sense of movement. Form and shape play equally important rolls in his exploration of alternative materials.

Leaves Bracelet

Torque Ring in Black Gold

Morph Bracelet with Rhodonite and Palma Nera Wood

IPPOLITA

Noted for the handcrafted quality of each piece in her collection, Italian designer Ippolita was trained in sculpture. Her collection is inspired by Renaissance Italy brought into the modern world within simple shapes and an edited collection of materials. Her pieces feel rich and the aged quality of her bangles and rings brings to mind an era of jewelry making often forgotten in today's world of mass production.

Silver Star Pave Diamond Ring in Sterling Silver

Single Rosecut Pave Diamond Ring in 18K Gold

Knife Edge Black Resin Bangle in 18K Gold

Big Shot Bangles with Pave Diamonds in 18K Gold

Galaxy Ring with Rosecut Pave Diamonds in 18K Gold

ANISH KAPOOR FOR BVLGARI

London-based Anish Kapoor is a sculptor well known for his use of highly reflective stainless steel. Recently launched within Bulgari's "B.zero1" Collection, the spiral design of this ring is a metaphor for transition. We hope that this first collaboration has many more pieces to come!

B.zero1 Ring in Steel and Pink Gold

HERVE VAN DER STRATEN
Originally trained in jewlery, Herve van der Straten has made the opposite transition, from jewelry design to furnishings and lighting. Using only the finest craftsmen and materials, he has brought the design and creation of his interior furnishings into a new level of artform.

A Sampling of Jewelry by HVDS

Lampe Volubile #321

TOP 5: THE UPHOLSTERED HEADBOARD

2010-09-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

Images: Pottery Barn, West Elm, Ballard, Wisteria, Restoration Hardware, Ikea

Our post last week inspired followers to ask: what about a simple headboard? We've put together our top 5 finds and concepts below:

FAVORITE CONCEPT: SLIPCOVERED HEADBOARD

Pottery Barn Lewis Headboard & Slipcover

Easy to update and always in style, a simple linen or cotton headboard is our favorite solution to any bedroom. Dressed up with an abundance of patterned linens or streamlined with basic bedding, this style can work in any home.

TEXTURAL

Grid Tufted Headboard and Nailhead Upholstered Headboard both by West Elm

These simple designs with tough fabrics will withstand wear and tear while freshening up the style in any room (a great option for guest bedrooms).

TUFTED

Lorraine Tufted Headboard by Pottery Barn and Diamond Tufted Headboard by West Elm

A punch of drama in any room, here is an example of a more traditional option next to a modern take on this classic silhouette.

EUROPEAN ACCENT

Restoration Hardware Maison Bed and Wisteria Upholstered Headboard

The small addition of wood carving in both of these options adds a subtle sophistication to an otherwise simple, slightly more traditional silhouette.

FULLY UPHOLSTERED

Ikea Floro and Vanik Upholstered Bedframes

Another easy to update style, these options add a bit more drama to your space than our first concept, with an added footboard on Floro, the Vanik with an exaggerated curved headboard.

TOP 5: BED FRAMES

2010-09-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

Images: Gregorius Pineo, Ethan Allen, Williams Sonoma Home, West Elm, Sotheby's, BDDW, Rose Tarlow Melrose House, Oly Studio, Niermann Weeks

A few of our favorite inspirations paired with options easily available for your own home:

Gregorius Pineo Moragas Bed and Ethan Allen's Quincy Bed

An American classic: simple carvings, turned legs in a black painted finish.

Williams Sonoma Home Fairfax Bed and West Elm Grid Headboard

Simply Sumptuous: A tufted leather headboard can be dressed for a more formal aesthetic or paired down for a more modern look

Vintage George Nakashima Platform Bed and BDDW Slab Bed

Organic and Original: These walnut creations are always unique, as they are produced from the length of fallen timber, therefore maintaining a soft silhouette of curved edges.

Rose Tarlow Oppede Bed and Oly Studio Marco Bed

Always Soothing: Canopy beds that remind you of luxurious getaways.

Niermann Weeks Loire Bed and Oly Studio Walker Bed

Timeless Elegance: This European-inspired shape and style will forever be in vogue.

THE WRITTEN WORD

2010-09-07T15:53:00.000-07:00

Credits: Ikea, Container Store, Henry Beguilin, Bottega Veneta

An important element of a well groomed home is storage and display of the tools you use everyday. Even in today's world of computers, smartphones and tablets, every now and then we still have an itch to take quick notes on a notepad. The writing tools for these outdated devices (better known as pens and pencils) can be a design disaster in themselves. You've got your ballpoints, your #2's, Sharpies, blue pens, hotel pens, drafting pencils, black pens, favorite pen you "borrowed" from the waitress at dinner 2 months ago - even all rounded up in a single goofy cup, it tends to be reminiscent of a fraternity house.

Use your writing tools instead as a creative inspiration. For example, placed on a coffee table along with a pad of sketch paper, a pretty cup of colored pencils can be a great way to inspire guests.

Here are a few tips from our team for a quick pencil cup "makeover" that will leave you feeling organized and your home looking that extra little chic you've been craving:

PENS AND PENCILS

A few handy tips:

-Keep your pencils sharpened!

-Try to find a pencil or pen you love and stock up - a monochromatic scheme = tres chic

-If you go the colored pencil route, try and buy a set of uniform pencils

-Keep specialty or sentimental single pens and pencils hidden away in a drawer; really, how often do you use that double wide, angled tip green Sharpie?

PENCIL CUPS

The most important design element, you will want to select a storage option that is both chic and melds into your home's aesthetic. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Container Store "Stockholm Pencil Cup"

Henry Beguilin "Gran Vezir" Leather Cup

Bottega Veneta "Uniform Intrecciato Nappa Pen Holder"

Ikea "Kappa" (inspired by above image with colored pencils)

NOTEPADS

In addition to a steady and monochromatic supply of pens and pencils comes the tools you write on - why not explore custom pads of paper to have nearby?

Don't have a property name? Come up with your own! It can be as simple as selecting your street name (343 San Ramon Way = San Ramon) or as creative as selecting a name for your property (i.e. Applegate, Casa de Los Gatos, Chateau Nolan, etc.)

GRASSY PAVERS II

2010-09-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

Credits: Hocker Design Group

We came across a few more images that beautifully represent our previous post on grassy pavers. Based out of Dallas, Texas, Hocker Design Group gives special attention to detail and native landscape. They also appreciate grassy pavers as much as we do. Check out their website for more innovative inspirations, http://www.hockerdesign.com.

We love this alternative approach with long rectangular slabs of stone. Notice the scattered effect of the layout - gorgeous!

Another version of the rectangular pavers in a more structured layout.

We love this combination of irregular pavers with a perfectly oval, bright blue pool.

A more planned and gridded approachl.

FRESH FLOWERS FOR YOUR HOME

2010-09-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

Credits: Floressentials, Wikapedia, Ikea, Tiffany, Heath, Modernity 20th Century Design

A weekly investment of $5-$15 is more than enough to bring a little sunshine and luxury into your home.

Our top picks:

PEONIES

You can't go wrong with peonies. They are sculptural, delicate yet , classic and beautifulon on their own or in an arrangement. Native to Asia, Europe and western North America, they are readily available late spring/early summer.

ORIENTAL LILIES

These are our top choice for scent. Lilies are sculptural, colorful and fresh. Their scent evokes a sense of luxury, calm and welcome which is why many hotels include these in lobby arrangements. Oriental lilies are recognized by their bright pink spots and brush strokes. Though late spring and summer flowering, they are often available at local grocery stores all year round, which is an added bonus.

*Note: Before placing on a treasured table top or near a clean white bed, don't forget to remove the stamens; the yellow pollen will stain just about anything, including your hands. Nothing a little soap and water or Biz can't remove from our favorite clothes, but tough to remove from lacquered or painted table tops.

ORCHIDS

Planted or fresh cut in a vase, multiple stems or sinlgle, orchids are always a classic option. They lend a tropical feel, a pop of color, and bring a level of sophisitacation to any space. Also a good investment in longevity, they last about 2 weeks cut, 4 weeks planted and are available year round.

BLOOMING BRANCHES

These beauties are available mainly in spring and summer. Common types include quince, pear, crabapple, flowering dogwood and lilac. Pussy willow works as a beautiful stand in during fall and sometimes winter. Make sure to always place branches in cool areas with indirect sunlight. If watered regularly, blooms can last up to 3 weeks!

*Purchase blossoms before they open to avoid damage; force branches into bloom by mixing warm water, a pinch of sugar, flower solution and several drops of bleach.

VASES

All flower arrangements need good vases. Below, we've included a few ideas to jumpstart your collection:

THE IDILLUC "GO TO" - Ikea Bladet

The simple design of this vase makes it a perfect option for all occasions. Traditional, transitional, contemporary and modern, it will seamlessly blend into any style home without taking away from the beauty of the arrangement. (They have a smaller version too!)

COLORFUL GLASS

Small yet elegant, a single blossom in a vase like the Ikea Salong is all one needs to bring life to the counter in a powder room or the bedside table in a guest suite.

CLASSIC

While the Octagonal Vase by Tiffany nods slightly to the more traditional collector, it's delicate, streamlined design can make its way even into the most modern home (and for this reason also makes a fantastic wedding gift!)

CASUAL/ORGANIC

For a more casual or organic environment, check out Heath's collection of single-bud options.

FLOATING

We often place 1-2 fresh flowers in a bowl like the above by Axel Salto. On a coffee or dining table they break up the space and add subtle hint of color. Our favorite flower to float: gardenias - they smell divine and last for several days.

GRASSY PAVERS

2010-08-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Images provided by: Elysian Landscape, Malibu home on PCH, misc. iPhone images

We love this combination of modern meets traditional. No patio says "lush" more than one with grass instead of grout. This large scale design can be modified to a smaller version for a more decorative pattern, or done with flagstones for a looser more organic vibe.

We especially love this idea for driveways - so much cooler on hot days and so much greener for a more sophisticated curb appeal!

FLATWARE

2010-07-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Images: Puiforcat, When Objects Work, Crate & Barrel

We recently found a few beautiful lines of silver and thought we'd share our favories!

PUIFORCAT "Zermatt"

Designed by Patrick Jouin for Puiforcat, these stainless steel masterpieces are heavy, polished and are stunning to see in person.

JOHN PAWSON "FORKKNIFESPOON"

We especially love the knife design in this collection by John Pawson. Simple forms and clean lines speak to the work of this designer.

CRATE AND BARREL "MIRO"

It's all about the knife. These pieces conform to your hands, large or small and make a great everyday set.

WHEN OBJECTS WORK

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Images: When Objects Work

We made it our mission this summer to study up on as many legendary architects and designers as humanly possible. Leave it to us to find an amazing resource within my first 10 pages of reading about the life and works of John Pawson. "When Objects Work" is a line of pieces distributed based on the principle that "everyday objects may be both useful and beautiful." Since this is a key mantra at IDILLUC, we couldn't have been more pleased to find such a resource. From benches to flatware, vases to ashtrays, the collection focuses on simplicity of form AND function (not form VS. function) while maintaining a quality only skilled craftsmen can produce.

We are especially drawn to the line of ceramic bowls designed by Vincent van Duysen. Soft yet hard, large and small, they can serve a multitude of purposes yet remain an objet all on their own if simply left out for display.

The line is also a subtle reminder that there is a designer behind every object around you. This brings to mind retailers like Ikea, who give full credit to their designers by naming their products after them. Not that we've ever desired a shoe horn to bare our name, (nor is it as cool as some of the Swedish names I've seen!)

More to come on John Pawson next week....

Welcome

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Idilluc Design Team is a group of designers who work closely together to bring you the latest design steals available. We strive to source, test and inspire your lifestyle on a weekly (and sometimes daily!) basis. From New York to Los Angeles, "This Old Home" to "Dwell Magazine," Travel and Leisure to The Wall Street Journal, we've got our eyes sourcing and our fingers chatting.

We hope you enjoy!

xoxo,
Kate Sims, Founder