Shop Talk: NSS

Natural Selection Studio (NSS) is the brainchild of Michigan-based Greg Gallegos and features some of the most gorgeous, handmade wood creations seen by the human eye. Naturally, we wanted to give well-deserved props for the quality and creativity displayed in one of our favorite new Etsy shops! Here are a few finds to invest in:

Sycamore pods ($42) are thin, lightweight and are begging to house paperclips, rubber bands and other miscellaneous supplies we all too often fail to stylishly contain.

Color and wood were made for each other, so these blue and orange wooden bowls ($74) are begging to be displayed either as a pair or statement-making solo for a surprising treat.

If sculptural is more your style, these wooden goblets ($64) are as inspiring as they are functional. I’d love to see mixed nuts displayed in these beauties at my next dinner party!

Lastly, if you’re into marbled wood, this set of three vessels turned from Box Elder wood have your name on it. What a lovely centerpiece they’d make!

Hats off, Greg – you have us all drooling with wooden envy!

Tags: , , , , , ,

A Case For Ladders

I’m a serious ladder junkie. Equal parts decorative and functional, there just always seems to be a purpose for a ladder in every home I see. But don’t take it from me – here are a few fantastic ways to make the most of a ladder in your own space!:

1. The Display Shelf

Image Credit: A Beach Cottage

Purely decorative in every way, a ladder can be used as a tiered display shelf for your favorite objects. Careful when displaying glass decor – rustic ladders aren’t necessarily known for their solid rungs!

2. The Organizer

Image Credit: Stylizimo

Short on closet space, but big on accessories? Organize your favorite baubles, belts and bags on a decorative ladder in your bedroom. Instant closet solution!

3. The Linen Closet


Image Credit: West Elm

Forget putting away those handtowels and linens – leave ‘em out in all of their glory! After all, homes are meant to be lived in, right?

Inspired yet? I’m curious: how many of you have ladders in your own home, and how do you use them? Feel free to share below!

Tags: , , , , , ,

5 Wooden Wine Racks

Winter is just around the corner, which means loads of entertaining and spirits. Naturally, I’m on the hunt for wine racks that are both well-designed and affordable enough for gift-giving and hostess surprises.

While searching, I noticed my favorite designs were wooden, creating a beautiful mix of rustic, yet modern. Check out a few I spotted below!:

a. The Umbra Barrel Bamboo Wine Rack ($20) collapses when not in use and features a unique, circular design that holds 12 bottles. Definitely a top contender!
b. For a statement, the Zebrano Wood Wine Rack ($110) houses ten bottles with chrome accents separating each “layer.”
c. Equal parts sculptural and smart, the Wine Knot ($120) holds seven bottles in a molded plywood design. Gorgeous!
d. Sometimes you stick with the classic. This 24 Bottle Cellar Cube ($46) is an old standby for obvious reasons – the perfect mix of form and function span so many decor styles.
e. By far the most budget-friendly option is the Wine Bottle Folding Rack ($4) that seems directly inspired from my favorite Swedish drying rack. I love the simplicity, and of course – the price!

So, friends – which would you choose? Any favorites I’ve missed?

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Entry envy…

I recently had the pleasure to attend the book-signing event of Grace Bonney’s book, Design*Sponge at Home at the Anthropologie in Beverly Hills. Purposely waited until the day of to purchase the much-anticipated book after I heard Anthropologie did an exclusive edition with Grace – 16 extra pages on top of the 400! already. I finally had a moment to sit down and really look through the book. And let me tell you, I’ve got a serious case of entry envy…

photo credit: Cliff Norton

case no. 1: home of Traci and Bill Fleming / Los Angeles, California. First off, great color combo. But I’m particularly interested in the planter, believe it or not! The pattern/design of it is fab, especially love how it’s balanced with the yellow on the bottom.

 

photo credit: Ellen Silverman

case no. 2: home of Carol Neiley / Lyon, France. This really brings back memory for me – a constant visual during my recent European holiday. There’s just something about their streets and their apartment entrances. This antique wooden door is just part of the charm. C’est si bon, no?

 

photo credit: Tec Petaja

case no. 3: home of Genifer Goodman Sohr / Nashville, Tennessee. A log cabin, with a red door, AND Bodoni house numbers – you had me at hello.

If you want to learn more about this book, head on over to Design*Sponge, particularly this post, “The Evolution of a Book Cover” documenting the cover design. Really great insight behind the creative process.

{ all images scanned from Design*Sponge at Home by Grace Bonney }

 

Tags: , , , ,

Two Twig Crafts

With fall right around the corner, it’s time to bring the outdoors in and embrace the new season. Here are two lovely twig crafts that I can’t wait to try over the next few days!

1. Starburst Twig Wreath
So, you love the starburst mirror look, but hate the price tag (me, too!). DIY a replica using little more than sticks and twine. It makes such a lovely welcome wreath for your front door, yes?

2. Stick Art Frame
Need a last minute piece of art or party decor? Gather some sticks and frame them — it truly is that easy. I love the silver frame, but think white would be smashing, as well!

Feeling inspired yet? Time to go outside and explore your own DIY ideas! Happy hunting!

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,