Come With Me...

...to the tropics!  Tropical design is a tricky one, don't you think?  It can easily slip into what I call "Magnum P.I." decor, but when done right*, I think it's fantastic.  Check out these beauties and imagine yourself actually being there!


 *and in the right climate - it somehow doesn't fly here in the Seattle rain :)

This entry, and the next image, set just the right mood...

Rose is the perfect beverage for this setting!

Funny I didn't even notice that little doggie until I pasted this image into this post.  Cute!

This is the home of Allegra Hicks - she lives the ubiquitous beach life.

Mother Nature knows best!
Rich violet and shades of lime would be a stunning addition to a neutral palette.

Awesome pillars.



Chic Tropical.

Killer lighting.  Wow.

So cool!  
I love the shades of beautiful woods on traditional surfboards - gorgeous!

Wake up, throw on your flip flops and head down to the beach.  Not bad.

You can't go to the tropics and not take a nap in a hammock!

If you're interested you can find an older post of tropical designs here.


Also, a big THANK YOU for all of the supportive comments about me posting less frequently.  Thanks again for being awesome readers, friends and/or fellow bloggers. (some of you are all three - lucky me!)

Sources

Al Fresco

Let's take a little detour from the winter, Christmas feelings flying around blogland right now and escape for a soothing al fresco meal in a beautiful setting. 

Take your pick - will it be...

An unforgettable pasta dinner at a villa on Lake Como...

(sorry, George Clooney is not available)

Breakfast in Greece, watching the yachts come and go...

A hip rooftop meal in NYC, catered by Dean & Deluca...

A rustic picnic surrounded by lavendar fields in Provence...

California cuisine in Napa's wine country...

An elegant brunch in Venice, with transport via gondola... 

A BBQ on a Texas ranch...



A super-casual, laughter-filled backyard get together...

A tapas feast overlooking a gorgeous crumbling European city...

Sweets and cafe au lait for two in Paris...

Passion fruit smoothies and more in tropical paradise...

Overlooking African deltas on safari with the sounds of the animals for music...

A farm-to-table meal in Oregon...

(I've done this and LOVED it)

In your own backyard, shaded by leafy trees and a gentle breeze...

A seafood meal overlooking the coastline in La Jolla...

A healthy lunch at a luxurious spa in Arizona, surrounded by succulents...

In the garden of your friend's beautiful home in the English countryside...

OR - last choice - a four course meal in an enchanting tree house like setting...

I'd love to hear which one you're dreaming about.  For me it doesn't get any better than al fresco dining.  I think I'd just start at the top of this post and work my way down!

PS - thanks so much for the support for my "Giving with Purpose" post from yesterday. 

I loved hearing more ideas to do good in the world also!

Sources and even more al fresco inspiration can be found here.

Today I'm Loving...

...this bar area.  It has a tropical feel that can transport us from the dreariest winter evening to a lush, warm island!  Notice that the room itself isn't spectacular, but the lush greenery, statement rug and unique table create a great vibe...something anyone can recreate in the humblest of spaces.

arkpad.com.br

Sorry for the short post today - my normal life outside of blogging has been particulary busy lately! 

In addition, I've been working on putting the finishing touches on Linen Haus so I can open very soon - I'm getting very excited and I can't wait to share it with all of you!

I have also been finding and prepping several new products to round out my inventory - I have some beautiful additions to show.   More on that tomorrow! 

John Jacob Interiors: Intriguing South African Design

I have been intrigued by African Design since a trip to Africa in 1999.  In South Africa specifically, I think they combine the influences of their coastal location with their history of colonial elegance and then add in exotic and ethnic touches.  What a powerful combination!  I love it when my wanderlust and design intersect like that.  :)

I recently became acquainted with the wonderful blogger Sharon from Roses and Rust from South Africa and she introduced me to the work of John Jacob Zwiegelaar.   I was blown away by his unique style.  My favorite rooms all have a sumptuous blend of white, black and lush greens...

Notice how he recognizes the African setting, but in a very sophisticated way.

Love the butterflies.  My mind goes straight to Livingstone!

Killer botanicals and a nod to the coastal setting.



Very chic swimming.

More coastal influences in a warm setting.

You may have seen this dining room before.  I know I had, and it really got my attention. 

The lighting is very unique, and of course I went crazy for the succulents!

I could pull up on my boat and sit up on that balcony and watch the sunset...yep, I could definitey do that.

What do you think of the bugs?

 

A simple vignette inspired by nature.

 

I hope you enjoyed this post!  Thanks so much for reading.