Why you should try warmer wood tones at home

In a world where dark "coffee" wood tones are taking over the budget market, I'd like to propose a warmer and brighter alternative. Warmer wood tones can create a more contemporary look, and serve as an extension of the outdoors inside if done properly. To achieve a similar look, I suggest considering maple, white oak, redwood, or teak over coffee colored veneers. There are also several other great options for warmer wood tones, especially if the wood is sourced internationally.  

Here are a few of my favorite designs showcasing warmer wood architectural features. I really love the contemporary feel! I promise these bright wood tones will leave you feeling upbeat and inspired. 

Designed by Applegate Tran Interiors, Image via Houzz

Cape Town, South Africa home - Architecture: SAOTA, Interior Design: OKHA

Cape Town, South Africa home - Architecture: SAOTA, Interior Design: OKHA

Vancouver home designed by Kelly Deck, Image via Design Rulz

If you've been avoiding lighter, natural wood tones, then here's a small push to begin embracing this naturally stunning look. How gorgeous is this Vancouver home shown above and below? Designer Kelly Deck's selection of neutral and cream colored decor pulls the look together and allows this blond wood tone to shine. 

Vancouver home designed by Kelly Deck, Image via Design Rulz

Designer Jenni Kayne's Los Angeles home, Architectural Digest

Designer Jenni Kayne's Los Angeles home featured in Architectural Digest (above) is a beautiful example of reclaimed wood used in an elegant and sophisticated manner. I love that this room is refined, yet rustic at the same time. Also noteworthy are the inviting, white sofas. An excellent choice that really pop against the wood. 

Designed by Applegate Tran Interiors, Image via Houzz

Auckland, New Zealand home by architect Michael O'Sullivan, Interior Design: Yvette Jay, Image via Dwell

If you prefer a more unique approach to wood, then take a look at these amazing rooms (above, below). The chevron patterned ceiling is fantastic, and really quite unique, and I love the rich stain used in the wood panelled ceiling below. 

Chandelier design by Lindsey Adelman, Image via Analog Dialog

California home designed by Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects, Image via House Beauty 

Would you be open to trying warmer wood tones for your home's walls, ceiling, or kitchen?

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When Furniture Combines Art and Storytelling...

Designer Emily Henry of Millicent Furniture- Photography: Jen Judge

A special piece of furniture can add an unexpected beauty to your home while telling a warm and welcoming story. New Mexico furniture designer, Emily Henry of Millicent, is a creator of this special kind of furniture. 

Emily's furniture is artistic and natural while utilizing unique narrative carvings to tell a story to everyone who lays eyes on it. What I like most about Millicent's furniture designs is that each piece invokes a fine art feel along with a modern nod to nature.  With every piece being a work of art in itself, Millicent's furniture cannot help but capture your attention.  

Kit Carson Electric Console shown in light poplar, Millicent - Photography: Peter Vitale

Happy's Curios Credenze in pine, Millicent - Photography: Jen Judge

Pueblo Plum 3-Drawer Side Tables (Right and Left facing) shown in light poplar, Millicent - Photography: Jen Judge

Jane's Garden custom built-in upper office cabinets in light poplar, Millicent - Photography: Peter Vitale

Meeting in Gallup Credenza in pine, Millicent - Photography: Jen Judge 

Pueblo Plum 2-Door Side Table shownin light poplar, Millicent - Photography: Peter Vitale

Pueblo Plum Credenza in pine, Millicent - Photography: Jen Judge

Designer Emily Henry of Millicent - Photography: Jen Judge

When art and storytelling combine with design, the results are truly magical.  Millicent's furniture designs are absolutely spectacular and truly unique. It's furniture with soul. I look forward to seeing what whimsical narratives are shared in Emily Henry's future furniture creations.  

To see more Millicent furniture, visit their webpage here.  

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Chic meets Rustic: Decorating with Reclaimed Wood

Happy Friday!  Today I thought I'd post a throwback feature that was really popular in 2014.  It's all about using rustic natural elements in chic interior design... because sometime nature does it best!  Don't forget about using reclaimed wood as a unique decorative accent in your home.  Here's some stylish inspiration to get you started.

The Sky is the Limit Design, Works Photography

I just love bringing the outdoors in! Brining reclaimed wood into a space really helps to achieve that.  I should also note that you don't have to be resigned to farmhouse style to make reclaimed wood work in your space either. Not only that that, but reclaimed wood can be very, very chic!  The reclaimed wood dining table above is such a great example of the chic-ness that can be reclaimed wood. The Sky is the Limit Design creates such stylish juxtaposition be combining this root wood dining table with the contemporary chrome leg dining chairs.  Just one of the many ways one can add reclaimed wood to their space. 

REFINED LLC, Martha O'Hara Interiors

Against the cream color palette the reclaimed wood ceiling above really pops.  Designed by Martha O'Hara, this sunroom is just lovely!  O'hara's use of the rustic wood slabs on the ceiling gives this room a special cottage-charm.  It all comes together quite nicely, especially with the chandelier.  I'd absolutely enjoy relaxing in this room. Am I warming you up to decorating with reclaimed wood yet? 

Home of Keri Russel, Image via Elle Decor, Photography by William Waldron 

Rafael de Cárdenas, Image via Elle Decor

Stunning antique Moroccan doors accent this feminine, purple living room.  This room was designed by Rafael de Cárdenas for model Jessica Stam's Manhattan apartment. Stam says these reclaimed doors were already installed in the apartment when she moved in.  Winning! Let's hope my next home comes with one-of-a-kind antique, Moroccan accents.  A minor request for my realtor. 

Rafael de Cárdenas, Image via Elle Decor

Sarah Richardson Design, Image via Houzz, Stacy Branford Photography

Reclaimed wood adds a wonderful natural warmth to a room and could be a great accent to consider the next time you're redecorating.  Have a great weekend!

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