A home that looks like it came out of a catalogue, from decorator's head, where you can't imagine flopping down on the couch with the dog, don't interest us. Personal, one-of-a-kind, DIY, handmade, unique, livable, whimsical even - these are the goals for how we'd describe the homes we're drawn to. With that in mind, take a look at some of the articles from this week's Los Angeles Times Home & Garden section: A pendant lamp made from straws; a camera that shows your garden growing in fast forward; a shop that pumps new life into old stereo speakers; and, an architect's family's home in Silver Lake. Links after the jump...
LA Times Home & Garden Roundup 11.21.09
Los Angeles
Bryan's Fashionable Statement
House Tour
Name: Bryan Boone
Location: Downtown Los Angeles, California
Size: 650 square feet
Years lived in: 1/2 year
Situated at the heart of Los Angeles' bustling downtown fashion district, Bryan's impeccably decorated small space is a Jonathan Adler-ish oasis of calm and comfort. Despite luxurious appointments, the space was furnished with a keen eye for good design at reasonable prices, tapping into what Bryan described as an obsessive focus for Craigslist deals, decorating the majority of the 650 square feet with vintage and future design classics bought at a fraction of retail prices. From the clear chess pieces arranged within a lantern to the vintage suit cases just peeking out from underneath the bed, Bryan's home confidently showcases his affinity for design both new and old in memorable fashion.
Lack, Las Vegas, LEGOs and Lautner
Los Angeles Slinks for 11.20.09
The week is winding down here as the sun has already set and the weekend arrives. But here are a few miscellaneous odds and ends we found today that might be of interest, including a video showing how IKEA's Lack table is constructed, the best places to raise children, LEGO architecture by actual architects and the stunning Lautner designed Elrod House in Palm Springs…
Hot or Not? Water Stopping Water
We totally want one of these Water Stopping Water drain stops for our bath tub. It was the winner of the I.D. Design Award 2007 and 2008 winner of the IDEA Design Award as a concept, but now they're accepting pre-orders for the real deal. Like or loathe them?
Creating Privacy On The Patio
Just because winter is approaching doesn't mean we're heading inside--at least not in Southern California. We're looking forward to taking our favorite cozy blanket and cup of coffee out on the stoop to take in the fresh morning air. We are afforded a little privacy by our stucco stair railing but some folks have to create their own hidden oasis.
What's Your Welcome Item?
We visited our friend this week and hadn't been over to her cute home in a while. When we walked in, we were greeted by the most amazing scent.
Sponsored Post
Win An Infinity Mirror from Room & Board!
6 Days Left!
Thursday Giveaway
Item: The Infinity 40x30 Mirror or the Infinity 36 Round Mirror.
Store: Room & Board
Value: $399 - $599
Description: Mirror, mirror on the wall, Which is the fairest of them all? We tend to be pretty indecisive, especially when given a choice between two equally stunning options, like the Infinity mirrors from Room & Board. Handcrafted in Minnesota from stainless steel and beveled-edge glass, these mirrors are modern and chic, and would certainly complement any decor. But which one to choose?
Best Sources for Party Supplies
We're beginning to think we only throw parties as an excuse to decorate. Most of the time this is easy: choose a theme and a color palette, rummage through saved supplies like crepe paper and vintage tablecloths, find a simple centerpiece, light some candles and go! And when we need to restock supplies (the fun part!) we look to a couple of sources:
The Fall Cure: Light Therapy
Week 6: Show and Tell
ivystyle33 has a serene, simple, light filled bathroom thanks to the Cure
• Cure Clock: 2.5 weeks to go• Assignment: Read Week 6: Light Therapy
• Members: 1,735
I was living in my apartment for a week before the electric company and I were able to sync up schedules. Without electricity I had to rely on candles, sunlight, and flashlights to function. My time was ruled by the rising and setting of the sun. It's not something I would suggest but it did give me a greater appreciation for how this simple modern convenience -- flick a switch and a light flares to life -- has changed the way we interact with the world. Light is about illumination, yes, but it's also about time.
What Exactly is In That Dust?
Dust is bothersome, isn't it? You think you've taken care of it, and then BAM! It shows up all over everything. Lamp shades, floorboards, sofa cushions, you name it. Any kind of intense cleaning gets the achoos going. And that's the problem: dust is pretty darn disgusting.
Mid Century Couch and Table - $900
Los Angeles Scavenger
This mid century sectional and coffee table set features a gray purple textured tweed-like sofa with side chair, and glass top coffee table. Not bad for $900!
Win this Camel Pillow from Thomas Paul!
Holiday Giveaway 2009
Name: Camel Pillow
Store: Thomas Paul
Value: $110
Description: A new pillow from the latest thomaspaul collection. The Camel pillow is from the BAZAAR collection. It is a hand-screened image on 100% linen with a different pattern on the back and cotton fringe.
Best Poufs on Parade: Comfortable Extra Seating
When we need extra seating, our go-to move consists of footstools and chairs from the kitchen. But we're really starting to admire the poof--and its design quality. Squishy and comfy, they can be easily moved around at a moments notice. Ten ways to use them after the jump!
Before & After: Emma's Bedroom Makeover
It's no secret that we're huge fans of Emma's Design Blogg; after all, she features some amazing photos of inspiring interiors. Emma recently re-painted her bedroom with Beckers paint and what a difference it makes: Her bedroom went from drabby dirty walls with yellow trim to a pristine white paired with a light grey. Check out more photos after the jump!
Waiting for Perfect Before Inviting Guests
Getting our homes just the way we like them can take time. Sometimes we don’t always have the budget to complete all our projects at once, and other times our homes are just one, ongoing evolution of design. The question is: do you banish all visitors when your place isn't quite finished?
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Top Tours
- Bryan's Fashionable Statement
- The Stitch Lab Studio
- Alysia's Treehouse by the Lake
- A Mid-Century Modern Musicians' Loft
- Joe and Kristin's Design Mix Craftsman
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