Mothers Day and Easter Gift Ideas!

Mothers Day and Easter gift ideas part I. Easter is April 24th and Mother's Day is

May 8th this year, so don't delay!

custom watercolor painting of your home

Earrings from JBM Designs / Magnetic boards via the Zhush

Lime Pillow via Cameo Nouveau / Vintage Earrings via kiamichi7

Mo

re ways to follow BB&B

shop * facebook * twitter * bloglovin * bamboopink * youtube

Coffee Table Decorating and Styling Tips

{Designer Ken Fulk}

Tucked between sofas and chairs, the coffee table can help a space achieve equilibrium. Although known as a staple in living or family rooms, coffee tables are also found in other areas of the home such as bedrooms, offices and sunrooms. Regardless of the location, decorating a coffee table’s surface is an essential element in completing  the room’s overall look.

{Designer: Tobi Fairley}

It may seem elementary, but artfully styling a coffee table takes careful consideration.  It’s easy to plop down some coffee table books, fresh flowers and a tray, but it may not be pleasing to the eye. When selecting items to decorate the surface, keep in mind basic principles of design including scale, balance, rhythm and harmony. Taking these design principles into consideration, here are some tips for decorating a coffee table:

{Designer: Palmer Weiss}

Evaluate Scale. Take into consideration the scale or visual weight of your coffee table and the other furnishing that embody the space. The example above, by interior designer Palmer Weiss, incorporates a round glass coffee table, which has less visual weight than the surrounding furnishings. To compliment the table’s scale, shape and material, Palmer selects three groups of items; a decorative plate, fresh flowers and a couple books – all heavier in visual weight than the coffee table itself. Notice the coral & white fresh flowers subtly pick up on the pillow’s hue – this is not an accident. The floral arrangement also adds height to the grouping without blocking the view of the TV, fireplace or guests’ faces. The round plate picks up on similar colors in the space, but more importantly repeats the circle patterns throughout the space. The magnifying glass placed on the coffee table books adds a touch of whimsy and that magical third element to the grouping. One design trick, which Palmer uses here, is to arrange accessories in groups and multiples of three.
     

{Designer: Hillary Thomas; Photo credit: Patrick Cline via Lonny Magazine}

Strike Visual Harmony. Designer, Hillary Thomas also used a trio of compatible items to create a harmonious look on this square coffee table. Again, fresh flowers in various shades of pink and red pick up on pair of ikat pillows {keep plants. A small round tea light breaks up the straight lines of the table and adds a romantic touch. {If you have small children or pets, please be careful when lighting candles on a coffee table – for safety reasons candles should be kept out of reach.} This time a pair of coffee table books are grounded with Foo Dogs. The Asian figurines compliment in style, texture and color the garden stools placed in front of the sofa.
    

{Designer: Tobi Fairley}

Achieve Balance. In the formal seating room above, designer Tobi Fairley creates a symmetrical balance by placing matching chairs, side tables and table lamps on either side of the sofa. The pair of books and glass art accessories selected to decorate the coffee table breaks the room’s formal symmetry, creating visual balance and interest.    
  

{Designer: Hillary Thomas; Photo credit: Patrick Cline via Lonny Magazine}

Above designer, Hillary Thomas using a large square tufted ottoman as a coffee table in this family room. A contrasting black lacquer tray is the perfect accessory to unify and showcase other decorative items. The asymmetrical arrangement of the stone horse figurine, book and succulent plant creates a visual balance. This informal balance can be difficult to achieve for some and there are no set of rules as to what is right or wrong. Many times it requires patience and plenty of trial and error to get it right.    

{photo credit: Thibault Jeanson via House Beautiful}

Create Rhythm.  Here designers, Hattie Wolfe and Abby Rizor place a large Indonesian bowl on a stout wooden coffee table. While some may argue the scale of the bowl is too large, it works not only because the repetition it provides in color & texture, but its contrasting round form creates rhythm in the space. I am not sure how this bowl was acquired, but showcasing treasures from your travels is always a wonderful way to make a space personal and act as a great conversation starter.

What do you think are the most important design principles to keep in mind while styling a coffee table?

Are you looking for more design advice on styling your home? If so, you may enjoy reading: 

Tips on Decorating the Fireplace Mantel,  
Tips on Styling a Bookcase Like an Interior Designer or  
Tips for Styling a Living Room.

West Elm Summer Collections–Sneak Peak & Minted Giveaway Winner

Longing for warmer weather and alfresco entertaining? If so, you are going to love this.


Here’s a sneak peak at West Elm’s collections for summer 2011. I’m digging the casual elegance, worldly touches and fresh blue & white color combos.

 
In particular, the wall art by Lourdes Sanchez and dinnerware by David Stark is very exciting to see.

The collections will go on sale March 29th. Congrats West Elm! You hit the ball out of the park! 

Now onto some more exciting news - the winner of the $50 gift certificate to Minted {fabulous online stationary store}. Out of 66 eligible comments, tea cozy {#66} was selected from Random.org. Congrats and enjoy!

A huge thank you to Minted for sponsoring this wonderful giveaway. Be sure to drop by to take a look at all the fun new designs, like these darling birth announcements.

Happy Friday!

Design Blogger Series: What Would You Do?

Today I am so excited to have four more talented and very crafty design bloggers participate in the fourth,  Design Blogger Series: What Would You Do?  Kate Riley of Centsational Girl, Stephanie of Brooklyn Limestone, Megan of Honey We’re Home, and Layla Palmer of The Lettered Cottage {all amazing DIYers} were asked to design a look around the Bailey Bench from Jayson Home & Garden by incorporating four or so  home décor items of their choosing.

This chic upholstered bench with with hand-rubbed black mahogany and antique bronze nailheads is 61"W x 20.5"D x 18"H. 

{Kate’s from Centsational Girl}

"When Cristin asked me to design a room around the Bailey bench, I immediately began dreaming of a 'money is no object' serene and sophisticated bedroom space, one I would surely design just for me if I was a single gal with a large bank account!  Cool grays, crisp white, soft teals, golden hues, mixed with linen fabrics and the softest patterned textiles.  I love so many of these accessories, I may have to sneak some of them into my own shared master bedroom!"

Sources: Eclipse chandelier from Z Gallerie, Filmore headboard {mist} by Serena & Lily,   Italian sheeting by Restoration Hardware, White lacquer nightstand from Era Interiors {pair to flank the bed}, Peacock azure pillow by Dwell Studio, Capri bottle lamp {gray} by Jonathan Adler, Circle fret rug by Dash & Albert, Devon mirror from Z Gallerie.

{Stephanie’s from Brooklyn Limestone}

“Hi everyone - its Mrs. Limestone of Brooklyn Limestone here.  As far as I'm concerned, nothing is better than imaginary shopping - all of the fun and none of the guilt!

Don't ask me why but this lovely bench made me think of Paris.  And for a travel lover like me, there is nothing better than decorating around wonderful memories abroad.

I imagined a glamorous couple that has fabulous yet intimate dinner parties with the best food, wine and company. This space would be just off their impossibly gorgeous kitchen - a spacious eat in area with a French twist - perfect for reading the paper and eating croissant or throwing a fabulous fete.” The space would include lots of flicking candles on the flat surfaces and lots of black and white travel photography covering the walls.

Sources: Marble top dining table, Oversized clock from Restoration Hardware,  Window treatments in Summer Palance Fret fabric, reclaimed herringbone floors,  Sideboard from Wisteria, a pair of Louis XVI square back side chairs from Ballard Designs, Glass pendant lighting by Pottery Barn, Paris B&W photography by Mrs. Limestone.

{Megan’s from Honey We’re Home}

“I started with the bed, feeling that the streamlined bedposts paired well with the legs of the beautiful bench.  I then added the suzani inspired rug for a graphic punch.  I’ve had my eye on those octagonal horn mirrors forever and since they are only 12 inches, thought they would look great in a pair, stacked on top of each other.  The mirrored side table and chandelier brought in the glamour.  Feeling Spring on the horizon, I wanted to add a bit of color with the pink pillows and tulips.  The aqua patterned drapes complete the look."

Sources: Oly Studio Willa bed from Layla Grace, Tuxedo chandelier from Z Gallerie, Park mirrored dresser from Pottery Barn, Octagonal horn mirrors from Wisteria, Flower bowl by Kate Spade, Drapes by Cococozy, Throw pillows by Fabricadabra & Cococozy, Rug from Wisteria.

{Layla’s from the Lettered Cottage}

“The bench has sort of a "yesterday-meets-today" feel. The lines are classic, but the finishes and colors are contemporary. What a great combination!  I chose a variety of items that spoke to both styles. An industrial-looking dresser from Anthropologie that says, "Hi. I'm old- but check out the big, bold graphics on my drawer fronts." A button-tufted, but boxy-shaped, charcoal-gray suede headboard from West Elm. Smooth and shiny bedside lamps, with rough and rustic shades from Pottery Barn. Crisp, white bedding (complete with little gray pinstripes) from Restoration Hardware, paired with a vintage-washed gray quilt (also RH) and colorful, and boldy-patterned, accent pillows from Luna Bazaar. And because I love the way plants bring movement and life into a room, I threw in a few mossy terra cotta pots filled with fresh greenery. :-) ”

Sources: Headboard material faux suede in charcoal herringbone from West Elm, Anthropologie Dresser, Navy & white throw pillows, White and gray bedding from Restoration Hardware, Gray quilt from Restoration Hardware, Mercury glass lamps from Pottery Barn.

A big thank you and hug to Kate, Stephanie, Megan and Layla for participating in this series!

Each design is gorgeous in my book. Which one catches your eye?

CSN Stores $75 Giveaway

It's time for another great giveaway! This time I’m hosting a giveaway from CSN Stores. CSN Stores is a website comprised of over 200 online stores where you can find everything from stylish handbags, to modern rugs or great cookware! As you can see above, CSN Stores offers lots of gorgeous items for your home.

The giveaway that CSN Stores have so kindly offered to Simplified Bee® readers is a $75 gift certificate to use at any of the 200 + stores online. The winner must be located in the US or Canada.

Here’s how to enter:

• Leave a comment. {provide your email if I don't have a way to contact you}.
• Extra Entry - become a new follower of Simplified Bee's Blog, Twitter or Facebook Page.
• Extra Entry - mention this giveaway in a blog post, FB link or tweet, then leave a comment letting me know.
• Please post a separate comment for each extra entry.
• Entry period closes at 9 p.m. PST on Tuesday, February 22, 2011. The winner will be chosen by Random.org.

Happy decorating and good luck!

Bee My Valentine

{Love Poster by Made by Girl}

Ah, love is in the air. Hugs & kisses are all I need this year, but aren't these fun Valentine’s Day gifts…

1. Red Deco Dot Oven Mitt from Sur La Table 2. Spade Journal by Kate Spade 3. Trina Turk Straw Tote 4. Valentine Petits Fours by Williams Sonoma 5. Paloma Picasso Love & Kisses Ring at Tiffany & Co. 6. Paperweight by Tory Burch 7. Hugs Needlepoint Pillow by Jonathan Adler

How will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year?

Friday Find: Super Chic Poufs

Who doesn’t love the cute, practical and kid-friendly pouf? Perfect for extra seating, resting your heels or adding a touch of whimsy. In any case, you can't go wrong. Here are some super chic poufs that have won my heart:

1. Jaggery Pouf by John Robshaw, 2. Shag Pouf at Calyso St. Barth, 3. Leather Pouf at Calypso St. Barth, 4. Pink Moroccan Leather Pouf at Serena & Lily, 5. Kuba Jaipuri Pouf at Calypso St. Barth, 6. Wool Stool at Clayton Gray Home, 7. Knitted Poufs at CB2, 8. Mushroom Pouf at Anthropologie

Any of these stylish poufs catch your eye?

Also, Morgan at the creative & fun, Pepper Design Blog is interviewing me today {grin}... to read it please drop by here.  

Happy Friday!!!

Trina Turk Residential Sale & Joss & Main Invitation

You know I am a Trina Turk fan. So, I wanted to spread the word when the folks at Joss & Main {the new online source for high-end home furnishings at up to 70% off retail} told me they will be running a Trina Turk Residential sale tomorrow - Monday, January 31st. The sale will be featuring some of Trina’s fabulous pillows and rugs like the ones seen below. 

Powered by CSN Stores, Joss & Main is a private, members-only site offering daily collections of home décor merchandise. Sales start at 11:00 AM EST and last a short time – most are only 72 hours.

Click on this link to join Joss & Main:

http://www.jossandmain.com/store/myinvite/3pE

Happy Shopping!

Introducing COCOCOZY Home Collection and Thanks

Fellow design blogger, COCOCOZY has just opened a fabulous online store featuring her own Spring/Summer 2011 home furnishings collection which includes fine linen pillows, soft cotton knit throws, window coverings and fun finds. I am loving the fresh geometric prints in a mix of cool blues, earthy greens and crisp greys. Take a look for yourself - COCOCOZY Shop. Bravo Coco!

Also, I have recently received several flattering blog awards from other bloggers. Thank you to the following beautiful blogs for your kind words and mention!

xo,

Friday Find: Chic Lacquer Desk Set

Now that you have organized the desk drawer, how about the desk’s surface? A desk set can be a great solution to help tame office supplies and paper clutter on the desk top. Today’s Friday Find is the modern, high-gloss lacquer desk set from West Elm. Isn't it chic?

The office set includes a magazine holder, trinket tray, paper tray, pencil cup and desk tray. Available in sleek white or vibrant peridot, items can be individually purchased to mix & match or coordinate with what you already own. It’s an easy way to update your desk's look with a touch of glam! 

Happy Friday and Happy Organizing!

Friday Find: The Future Perfect

Brrrr - It’s getting cold outside. This morning I just wanted to turn off the alarm clock and stay bundled up in bed. Doesn’t a sleep-in, cozy breakfast in bed with a good book kinda day sound just right? So today’s Friday Find features items from  The Future Perfect that would be perfect for a lazy winter morning. Showcasing the newest and best in decorative arts and design, The Future Perfect is a mecca that offers extraordinary talent from New York and the world.

Image Above: 1. Himmeli Small Pendan by Paul Loebach; 2. Nos Da Throw by Donna Wilson; 3. Fox Cushion by Donna Wilson; 4. Sprig Mug by Donna Wilson; 5. Compendium of Interior Styles by Francois Baudot; 6. Breakfast in Bed Tray by Donna Wilson; 7. Gold Milk Jug by Selett; 8. Antiquaires: Flea Markets of Paris by Laure Verchere; 9. Speak – er by the.

Happy Friday!

Our Elegant {and even glamorous} Christmas Mantel

Last year our holiday mantel was decorated asymmetrical with lots of color, vintage ornaments and traditional fir & pine garland. As you can see, this year’s Christmas mantel is symmetrical, monochromatic and frankly more elegant. The Lee Industry arm chairs in chartreuse flanking the fireplace inspired the mantel’s color palette of greens and whites with splashes of gold and silver.

  

A trio of etched mercury cachepots from Pottery Barn are filled with crisp white feathers and playful white winter berries. A small collection of vintage and contemporary Christmas trees are set just off center and each pick up different colors in the palette {actually used these cuties last year}.

For a more formal look, a pair of small live fir trees are placed on either side of the mantel. Each tree is set in beautiful birch wrapped tins – this earthy element balances the sparkling silvers and glass and adds a warming neutral color that compliment the winter berries. Matching blown glass mercury candlesticks {Pottery Barn} hold chunky white candles and are placed next to each tree. The entire mantel is lined with fresh Heather and Camilla tree branches – love the varying textures and shades of green.

Perched on a small present, a silvery white snowman ornament adds a whimsical touch.

Simple, low-maintenance moss balls are placed on a silver “trophies” picked up at an estate sale. I was told they were originally used to place cigarettes. Really? They look much better in this form I think.

Hanging from the hammered tin mirror is a glass ornament wreath inspired by Eddie Ross’ in 2008. This was a fun DIY project and easy to do. The glass ornaments are a combination of ones found at an estate sale {vintage for $1} and Goodwill {$1 for two dozen – brand new}. Here is the how to by Eddie.

A proud white ceramic horse stands stately atop vintage Lucite nesting tables and favorite design books. It’s fun to take everyday home décor items like this and make them holiday ready by simply adding a little festive ribbon and tinsel. A chic Moroccan inspired print fabric is added to crushed avocado green velvet stockings. The pair are hang from a single panel fireplace  screen – love how the patterns in the screen and stocking play off one another. Swags of silver tinsel are added to the mantel for a touch of glam.

Need some more inspiration? Go here are fabulous ideas on how to decorate your mantel for the holidays.

Now go see the fabulous blogger's mantels at The Lettered Cottage and other holiday decor and home tours at Hooked on Houses, Nesting Place and Between Naps on the Porch.

Happy Decorating, Happy Holidays!

* all photos by Cristin Priest for Simplified Bee