Designer Envy: Michael S. Smith

I got a nice surprise yesterday - I won a giveaway!  It is the wonderful design book by none other than White House designer Michael S. Smith: Kitchens and Baths.  I received it from the talented Katie Denham, of Katie Denham Interiors and the blog Katie-d-i-d.  Katie has a really informative, savvy and fun blog, as well as a fantastic new website for her design business.  Stop by to check it out! 

Thanks so much Katie!

Of course that inspired me to collect some of my favorite images for a post!  I was familiar with some of his design work already, but I also discovered that he has several collaborative products on the market (perhaps I am the last to know).  Here are a few highlights of his work, with a sprinkling of my favorite product picks:

I don't think this space could get any cozier!

I was really drawn to these rich colors.

I thought this was a nice blending of woods and marble for a unique look.

I liked the unique look of this planter, especially the handles.

You probably could have guessed that I would be all over this tribal rug!

I always love a potrack in a hard working kitchen.

I have been loving antiqued mirrors lately (keeping my eyes open at the markets too!).

I love the more tailored look of this one.

Awesome day bed.

Sleek lines and nailhead.  Nice.

My all time favorite of his work.  
I  already posted about this very special bathroom when I posted about mosaics.

I've been thinking about Spanish Design a lot lately...in fact I'll be posting about it tomorrow.  This rug would be perfect in a mediterranean-inspired home.  Don't miss the greek key detailing - love that.  

 Amazing flooring and windows...love that chair too.

Love this color combo and pattern...

Did I touch on any favorites for you?

Raving about Rugs

I love the idea of using a fun statement rug in entries, mud rooms, hallways and kitchens.  These spaces provide a lot more freedom to be playful, bold or completely different from the rest of the house without it looking misplaced.  Here are a few rooms to show how nicely it can wake up what could be a boring pass through:

Here is a roundup of some of my favorite statement rugs right now...

{West Elm}

{abccarpet}

{warp and weft}

{safavieh}

{Jonathan Adler}

{Emma Gardner}

{Williams Sonoma}

{Michaelian & Kohlberg}

{Calypso}

{via Decorista}

{Thom Filicia}

Which is your favorite, and where would you use it?