Mad Men

This past Sunday my favorite show finally returned for its fourth season! Mad Men takes place in the 1960s with a storyline that focuses on an advertising agency –Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce. Since my first job was in advertising I find myself constantly relating to the dialogue. But my new career in Interior Design allows me to relate to something even more exciting – the set design! Set Designer Dan Bishop does an amazing job of creating authentic spaces that aren’t too cliché. In order to celebrate the new season I’ve selected the following items that could be used to create your own Mad Men design at home.

Room and Board, Reese Sofa, Gibson Cocktail Table, Grove Armoire

 

 Dual, Open Frame Armchairs by Bertha Schaeffer

Marie Battaglini, Eames Executive Chair

Orange, 1960s Milo Baughman Style Chaise Lounge

Svenska Mobler, Dining Table by Bonta

Orange, 1950s Bar Cart

Orange, tripod lamps

Pariscope Design

Flower Power

With Summer in full swing I am seeing gorgeous flowers popping up everywhere! We have a rose garden outside our office and having it in bloom makes the work day (a little) more enjoyable.  With this enjoyment I am making a pact with myself to have more fresh flowers in the apartment. Not only do they smell great, but they liven up any space.  Here are some examples of how to freshen up your home with flowers:

I love the idea of using cake stands as a centerpiece - the arrangement is lifted off the surface so everyone can enjoy it. Plus, the colorful stands with the round arrangement is so unique and fun.  I can't wait to steal this idea!

 Country Living

A simple glass vase with my favorite flower - hydrangea. Classic and beautiful.

You don't have to own fancy vases to make a beautiful flower arrangement.  Using a large mug like this adds personality and a bit of an eclectic vibe.

House Beautiful

Flowers on the beside table will help make your mornings a little brighter. 

Another example of using found objects as your vase.  I love this idea of using a glass jar and dressing it up with some simple rope. 

Domino, archives

Branches add a sense of structure and height that flowers can't convey.  Simple twigs without any blooms are also a great option - plus, they'll last longer!

Greece and France

I just returned home after a 3 week vacation to Greece and France.  I went with my mother who hadn't been to Europe in over 36 years! My mother's whole side of the family made their way to France in order to see our French cousin Anne get married - it was a trip of a lifetime!  My mother is half Greek and half French (she calls herself a "Freak") so this was a meaningful trip that took us inside her heritage.

I undoubtedly saw some amazing sights and beautiful examples of design. I found myself constantly inspired by my surroundings.

Here are some snapshots I took along the way...