Everything Ethnic - Part I

Today I bring you a bit of ethnic design that has been grabbing my attention lately.  I know this isn't for everyone, and even for me it can go over the top.  However...I do think a touch* of ethnic additions to a space can really spice it up and make it a more interesting, unique room...sometimes I like it best in a very traditional space.  I guess it's similar to adding abstract art - that element of surprise.

*as in, determined by the homeowner/designer...kind of like "salt to taste" :)

Let's take a look at a few of my faves that I have come across lately.  I'll follow up in a week or two with a second post with some other inspirations:

That's a pretty cool piece on the wall, don't you think?

Happy Wednesday!

Sources

Guest Post at Home Bunch: A Gorgeous Home in Mill Valley!

Today I am over at Home Bunch, guest posting for the incredibly kind and talented Luciane...

I was so honored when she asked me to guest post for her, to help her out while she is resting and snuggling with the newest little addition to her family.  Here's a sneak peek:

Please hop over there today to see more of this gorgeous home!

Santa Fe Style

Today I started looking at homes from the incredibly beautiful artist enclave of Santa Fe, New Mexico.   Admittedly all of these images aren't from homes in Santa Fe, but they all fall under the same spell of this gorgeous asthetic:

The rug, the lanterns, the simple adornments and of course THAT CUPBOARD. 

Love the steps and the rounded corners on all of the walls, and the alcoves...

The colors are so vibrant!

Although this room is pretty empty and appears to be staged for a sale,

I liked this modern, cleaner take on the design...

This room and the next one are from a beautiful boutique hotel, The Inn of the Five Graces.

I like all of the turquoise elements in the room above, which Santa Fe is known for.

Pretty amazing ceiling, right?

Another "clean" version of Santa Fe style.  Notice all of the great art...I would think my design preferences couldn't help but be heavily influenced by all the incredible talent!

A collection of rakes?  They get credit for being original!

That chest at the foot of the bed is lovely.

I don't think I'll ever live in New Mexico - although you never know what the future holds!

If I do, I'll hang some chilies just like this...

Santa Fe in the Fall...gorgeous!

 

Have you ever been to Santa Fe?

I'm ready to hop on a plane - it would be the ideal girls' weekend destination. 
I've got it:  We can have a blogger conference there!
Who's free next week???  :)

 

 

Click here for sources and more Santa Fe Style inspiration

Basketweave

Baskets function beautifully in so many settings, and within so many different types of decor.  I thought it would be fun to look at some examples and maybe spark some ideas:

SHH Architects

This is SUCH a beautiful look along a back wall or hallway. 

I like how they aren't all symmetrical either, which adds interest.

Pierce and Company

Since Asia has been on my mind lately I came across this room. 

The basket blends so nicely with this type of decor. 

I'm not sure how to describe this room - Ecletic/Bohemian/Scandinavian??!!

Whatever it is, I like it for its unique style.

I have a basket like that one in my basement waiting for some DIY inspiration.

I'll post about that soon!

Courtney Giles

 Baskets are a great looking catch-all for oils and spices in the kitchen...

Pottery Barn

 Why not upgrade your garbage can?

I know it's early for Christmas ideas, but I thought this was such a pretty

Swedish-inspired entry and would be so easy to replicate.

Earthy baskets filled with fresh vegetables, fruits or herbs can't go wrong.

I'm especially partial to beautiful artichokes (as shown here) or figs on display.

Pottery Barn

The baskets really warm up this laundry/project workspace.

Knight Moves

Kyle Knight decorated her beautiful den using some wire baskets.

They look great tucked under the table for added storage.

West Elm

 I think the tall one would be fun to use for umbrella storage by my front door

but both of them have a lot of possibilities!

This would make putting away groceries a much nicer experience.  :)

I think this is a lovely room already, and the hardy basket of wood warms it up even more.

Pottery Barn

All three types of baskets shown here add more dimension to the display.
I know, that's three pictures from Pottery Barn in one post. 
I can't help it - I think they do baskets really wel!

These lend a great ethnic feel, especially next to that gorgeous table.

I think this vignette is so interesting. 

Not a good one with toddlers around, though.  I don't know what would be worse:  a little one ingesting a lot of coffee beans or peppers!!!

But, for adults...this look is unique and the baskets pull it all together.

I hope you found some new ideas here today.

What type of baskets do you have, and how do you like to use them? 

I'd love to hear!