I don’t take it lightly that I’ve  had the opportunity to travel to Europe for the past couple of weeks.

I also don’t take lightly that my hubby is a scholar, whose research is recognized internationally….Hmmm, Okay, well I sorta do (tee hee).

But it is kinda cool to learn that the very humble and regular guy that I live with, does research that is pretty impressive to folks around the globe.

He was a guest speaker at 3 universities in Austria and the United Kingdom. I joined him on this trip to show support and to celebrate our 20 yr. anniversary.

We took Planes, Trains and Automobiles, hopping from one city to the next…It was quite exciting to discover the differences and similar nuances of each city.

It’s probably no surprise that I swooned over design choices from hotels, retail stores and restaurants. There was eye candy at every turn. 

My favorite were the design choices of a recently refurbished building, turned high end hotel in Liverpool. It had an industrial, vintage, vibe and was very well appointed.  They kept the original integrity of the building and used a minimal design approach for the suites.  Textures and patterns kept the monochromatic space upbeat and sophisticated.

Hotel Suite

The restaurant decor had a vintage, industrial vibe

And the indoor spa and pool was inspiring and beautiful.  These London and Vienna hotel spaces were both ornate and minimal

And I was blown away by the impressive detail and scale of the doors and architecture

Lastly, I found myself Salivating as I peered through the doors of this retail store

This is a great example of a room that speaks to a RELAXED ELEGANCE.  Spaces that have personality without being too stuffy are my favorite design style.   

Design Tip of the Week

Before you begin a project, start with the end in mind.

Collect lots of photos for inspiration, and look for a common theme among them.  Decide how you want each room to look and feel. If you don’t know where to begin, seek a professional for guidance.

I often wonder, why we seek professional help for aches and pains, legal problems or car issues, but are reluctant to seek guidance for our homes.

For example, the same way you might explain symptoms to a physician, with the expectation of a diagnosis, and prescription. Design professionals address and diagnose symptoms too.  

Are certain symptoms evident in your home or office?

Perhaps a room feels imbalanced?

Do you have an angled fireplace or stationary pieces that are difficult to design around?

Are you maximizing your small space efficiently?

Does your large space feel too cold and impersonal?

Does your home suffer from builder’s beige syndrome?

Are you finding it difficult to merge two design styles?

Would it benefit you to hire a design professional, who could offer a diagnosis and prescription?

Do you know about our Online shop?

We have new and noteworthy items ...click this link to view them, pin your favs and share them on facebook….we appreciate the love :)!!

….What symptoms are evident in your home?   Could we help you with a diagnosis?

Europe’s doors were fabulous….Do you agree?

I am grateful for my followers and for the opportunity to bless others with with my passion.

Make today awesome yall 🙂 !!

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Thanks for stopping by! 

We help busy career families create comfortable stylish homes 

Inspiring Creativity,

Ricci

(217) 722 – 4806