LIVE OAKS

New website, Same Blog

2012-01-30T14:26:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks! LIVE OAKS will be back pretty soon. The new site is www.liveoaksinteriors.com/blog. This site will stay so feel free to reference all the lists and past posts if needed. Hope everyone is well!

Hiatus

2011-06-27T06:38:00.003-07:00

Going on hiatus. Hopefully I'll see ya'll in the new year!

2011-06-21T19:22:00.000-07:00

We couldn't have asked for better weather on Sunday at the Candlestick Antique Fair. Although not as large as the Alameda Antique Fair, or as varied as the new Treasure Island Antique Fair, the selections were fun! My favorites: 60s groovy outfits, antique mirrors, cool pins and brooches as well as military hats.

Georgeann Kenoyer Antiques had a really nice selection! Space H6 at Alameda Point

Lampshade Change

2011-06-18T17:54:00.000-07:00

I found a blog tutorial on refreshing a lampshade. Thought I'd give it a try.

Find the tutorial here: http://isabellaandmaxrooms.blogspot.com/2010/06/how-to-cover-lampshades-with-fabric.html

Oakland Flower Mart

2011-06-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

I need flowers for an event so instead of going to Whole Foods as usual, I decided to check out the Oakland Flower Mart - the source for many local florists. It is open to the public but those with reseller permits get the wholesale discount.

What to do with all this bark? Hmm, I bet there could be a great craft project in the future with this bark!

Hubby took these pics with some app that made them a little blurred. The rooms with the flowers were cold! Brr!

http://www.oaklandflowermart.com/

Urban Home Consignment

2011-06-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

I was in the area and finally explored Urban Home Consignment. It is located on the Eastshore Highway in Berkeley. Good mix of styles. Hubby was eyeing the bubble chair. There weren't as many accessories as I'd hoped but lots of good quality furniture and lighting.

More from their blog: http://urbanhomeconsignment.blogspot.com/

Lino Block Resurrection

2011-06-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

When cleaning out old keepsakes, I found this print from a linoleum block I made as a kid.

On the last trip to visit the fam in Houston, I found the old lino block.

I already had a brayer and lots of cardstock... I picked up couple of bottles of ink and stamped away!

Pot Filler {Gardening}

2011-05-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

Found this product in my latest Sunset magazine. I bet there are lots of DIY ways of doing this... But I tried... I put in a foam block in my tall, skinny pot and now it is mushy. This product looks better! http://www.packingpearls.com/

Sari Borders

2011-05-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

I needed some trim and took a little trip to the Sari Boutique on University in Berkeley. Look at these intricate and colorful borders! They had so many designs to choose from including some easy iron-ons.

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Baby}

2011-05-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

Made some stuff!

used some batik I had in my stash

broke down and bought baby themed fabric

the last of my Oscar de la Renta linen

It is that time again! {SF Decorator Showcase}

2011-05-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

2011 San Francisco Decorator Showcase,

Open April 30 – May 30, 2011, Located at: 2950 Vallejo Street (between Lyon and Baker)

"We are excited to announce that the 34th annual San Francisco Decorator Showcase, San Francisco’s premiere spring design event, will be held at 2950 Vallejo Street (between Lyon and Baker Streets) in Pacific Heights. The home is a stunning Italian Villa Estate, featuring incredible panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, Alcatraz and the City. This year’s Showcase, open from April 30 to May 30, 2011, will offer a fascinating look inside one of San Francisco’s architecturally-significant homes." More info here.

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Pants, Bloomers, Bonnet}

2011-05-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

I sewed a couple more items from Simple Sewing for Baby and one from Posie Gets Cozy. Fun!

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Tag Blankie}

2011-04-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

Just finished this little tag blankie. Apparently babies like to play with tags and this blankie is filled with them! I used a pattern from Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing for Baby and Liberty of London fabric.

Visit to SF Antique & Design Mall

2011-04-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

We were on the hunt for a dresser and took a trip to the SF Antique & Design Mall to see what they had in that department (and to just see what it was all about). Apparently it is a collective; it has many booths with various periods and subjects -- from MCM to garden to comics to jewelry. I really liked this place and see it as a great resource for unique pieces and special accessories.

love this birdcage!

we almost got this mirror

love this vanity but it was tiny!

spectacular desk!

Hubby walked away with a hand-crank coffee grinder and I bought an enamel brooch. The dresser we were eyeing was a tad too small but the quality and price was excellent! I loved the light fixtures, mirrors, hats and funky furniture pieces.

More info: http://www.sfantique.com/

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Lined Sheath}

2011-03-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

I finally finished this lined dress (McCall's M5972). Although the pattern called for just the bodice to be lined, I added a lining for the skirt because of the light creme Japanese linen fabric I chose. I don't think this dress will wear well b/c of this linen (the pattern said a possible fabric could be blended linen versus regular linen). It is gonna be real wrinkly! But it is nice to look at! Those little squigglies are small grey seagulls.

2011 White Elephant Sale

2011-03-10T10:19:00.000-08:00

A couple of us went to the White Elephant Sale - a once a year event where donated items go up for sale to benefit the Oakland Museum Women's Board. There was a blocks long line but it was moving when we got there. We beelined to furniture then perused jewelry, bric-a-brac, housewares and women's accessories.

This nice china cabinet was well made and was selling for around $600.

This would be cute reupholstered with a fun fabric.

The main thing I wanted was this super large mirror. Hubby was like, how will we get it home?

Junk everywhere!

So many saws!

Cool old tools.

As we left, the line was long and not moving!

We both snagged girl scout cookies on the way out -- score! People got a little pushy overall -- they couldn't handle the crowds. It was no biggie for me; like any old day back in Beijing. Calm down people! The next day the prices were going to get slashed. I am glad I went but didn't buy anything. Fun to look!

LA Shadow Day 2011

2011-03-02T12:06:00.000-08:00

Here are a few snaps of my shadow day. It was filled with meetings, site visits, a lunch and learn with 3Form, a rep visit and general commercial interior design. They were very welcoming and I am glad to have made the trek to LA to visit and learn from everyone.

The office of my shadow.

Presentation boards.

I've been looking for guidance on how my school boards should look -- seeing these helps!

I have a signage assignment -- learning from this example is helpful.

Sample library.

So many choices!

Poms!

Choices galore!

Display of completed projects.

View from mentor's office.

My mentor Susanne at her desk.

We went to a tenant client to help see if there was a better space plan to give this dry cleaner more room to move around.

A future project that will be a bank.

Ooo! I hope they keep the brick!

We went through the grand lobby of their tenant client.

Stunning ceiling!

What a nice path of travel to your job.

Yay or nay? Estate Sale Mirror

2011-02-27T09:02:00.000-08:00

I was pondering on this mirror... I have been trying to compile a feminine and functional vanity/dressing table consisting of a mirror, small desk or table and cute chair. Could this be the mirror? It was selling for $100. I passed since I am thinking about our move later in the year and I hate moving glass/mirrors! Unless it is a killer steal, I'll wait on the mirror until after the move.

Shutters

2011-02-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

My grandparents live in hurricane country. Although they aren't right on the coast, they have had an instance where their city was evacuated in advance of a storm. When this happened, the city became a parking lot -- in 10 hours my grandparents only got from one side of town to the other. Unfortunately the city's plan was insufficient. All the car exhaust smell, minor chaos, and panic were enough for my grandpa to say he would not evacuate again. He began to improve his house over a couple of years to become practically tornado/hurricane-proof. But he didn't want to live in a bunker. Most of his improvements aren't noticeable. Here are his beautiful shutters. Don't they just blend right in? He didn't tell anyone about them and waited for family to notice when they visited. Nobody noticed! Many of the shutters go down electronically. My grandparents are the first to say that they weren't cheap and they aren't for everyone. As they get older, if a storm approaches (besides their other precautions and preparations), they don't have to go outside and board up, which can be a chore for the young and strong - they can just flick a switch!

I completely forgot to get a picture of the shutters drawn down! Next visit!

Student Sensibilities

2011-02-03T10:14:00.000-08:00

The other day in studio class, I noticed a similarity between the students in the back corner of the room. Converse love! Why do designers like these shoes? Because of the same characteristics we hope to show in our designs: comfort, a casual coolness, versatility and durability.

Book Review {Folding Ideas}

2011-02-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

I have been having some fun with this book lately and wanted to share. I bought it at Paper Source in Berkeley when I was getting supplies for my portfolio. I have so far made a few envelopes and greeting cards and got to put to use some of my old scrapbooking supplies. There is a CD that has everything arranged in two: whether you are printing at home or if you have a professional setup. I don't think I am using the right glues though, but I'll keep experimenting with that. You can find the book at Amazon here.

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Bag}

2011-01-27T11:45:00.000-08:00

Store Spotlight {lulu Pom}

2011-01-24T10:27:00.000-08:00

My friend showed me around her 'hood - Campbell/Los Gatos on Saturday. She showed me one of her favs lu lu Pom an interior design/home furnishings shop. There were a lot of great pieces! Here are a few pics:

Look out! Attempting Crafts! {Jacket}

2011-01-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

This was a challenge! My second attempt at lining and my first jacket. It came out a tad short but it fits and it doesn't look half bad! This was a good pattern (easier than that last dress).

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Lined Dress}

2011-01-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

While I'm still debating whether or not to keep my Etsy shop open, I've got a few personal sewing projects in the pipeline. Just completed this lined Chetta B Fast & Easy dress with pockets. Like others online that have said they've used this pattern, it isn't necessarily fast or easy. But I've learned a lot and I think it is wearable (fits pretty good).

Deborah Davis {Shadow Day}

2011-01-04T15:00:00.000-08:00

I hadn't posted pics from my ASID Shadow Day because I didn't think I took that good of pictures. Sometimes a little point in shoot is more appropriate than my big ol' camera. But now looking at them again, they are decent and they give a nice idea of what it is like at a commercial interior design office.

Design Inspirations {Zoo}

2011-01-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Patterns, colors and other inspirations abound on a trip to the zoo. It was fun hanging with the fam at the Houston Zoo. We were mimicking the birds and just overall causing a ruckus...Our favorite zoo games (that we made up) were wrestling at random, motioning for the orangutan to come hang out with us, bird calls and guessing the difference between the cheetah, jaguar and leopard spots.

Holiday Break

2010-12-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

Check out my bro's tree down in LA! Nice! I'll leave you with this bit of cheer for the remainder of the year. Have a great holiday everyone! Take a break for yourself and hang out with the fam.

2010-12-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

Take a look at my latest in textile design. It is for a residential project for school - I call it "dharma" I used Spoonflower to make it come to life!

Time for a Break {Finals}

2010-12-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

Workroom {SFDC}

2010-12-03T10:05:00.000-08:00

Our studio class took a visit to a 'workroom' in the San Francisco Design Center -- a place where custom drapery and other soft goods are made. The goods are almost exclusively made from fabrics from the Design Center by experienced workers and installed by careful people. This workroom was of a UC Berkeley Extension teacher Laurel Sprigg. It was very informative -- I didn't know so much craftsmanship and care went into these pieces, but with the intent to last 30 years (and still hang beautifully), you don't want to cut any corners.

you can see on the top left, three examples of roman shades

hardware options abound

light box - they examine all fabrics for any imperfections that would show up once hung

Laurel demonstrates a cleaning stick

aluminum product which blocks 50% of UV

huge quilting machine

Botanic Garden {Landscaping Ideas}

2010-11-30T12:53:00.000-08:00

While out-and-about in LA, we stumbled upon the South Coast Botanic Garden where I did a little landscaping research.

http://www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org/

Gamble House {Pasadena}

2010-11-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

Apparently the cool kids don't use the green section of a DSLR and make changes according to the conditions. I took that class at BetterPhoto.com and have gotten out of the green section but still have much to learn! It was a gloomy afternoon when I arrived at the Gamble House in Pasadena. I took lots of pics of the exterior (no interior photos) and had a pleasant tour with a docent. The house is spectacular! and I highly suggest a visit. Just read up on the house a bit before to learn about what all you are looking at (we studied the house in History II).

Bradbury Building {LA}

2010-11-20T10:55:00.000-08:00

Check out my Bradbury Building pics over at the ECD Blog.

http://www.ecdblog.com/2010/11/bradbury-building-los-angeles.html

De Young Circus {Post-Impressionist}

2010-11-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Sunday we went to the madness that is "Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne and Beyond: Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay." Why madness? Boy just so many people. Schedule your slot soon b/c it ends in January. Not only did they have the above named artists work that is usually housed in the now renovating Musee' d'Orsay, they also had my fav Henri Rousseau! Seeing his jungle painting as well as the Van Gogh Self-Portrait in person is a wonder to behold!

http://deyoung.famsf.org/orsay

Elle Decor Showhouse 2010

2010-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

We had a gander at the Elle Decor Showhouse on Saturday (perfect weather!) in the neighborhood of St. Francis Wood. Each space was designed by a different designer - I can't pick which room was my favorite. It was a good balance between masculine and feminine, light and dark, old and new. The lighting choices were the highlight for me.

On the Way {Showhouse}

2010-11-13T14:53:00.000-08:00

This colorful home said hello to me as I drove over to the Elle Decor Showhouse (pics coming soon!!!).

Bye Bye Birdie

2010-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.modcloth.com/store/ModCloth/Apartment/Furnish+Decorate/Here+Birdie+Birdie+Bird+House

Fence Design

2010-11-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

We watched the original Karate Kid this past weekend (oh, the 80s!) and I couldn't help but admire that fence! Simple design - better than the same old same old.

Tableware {As Architecture}

2010-11-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

Love this!

"You've heard it before: "This food is so, so...architectural in concept." This stacked dinnerware takes that old chestnut to new levels--1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6! That's how many "floors" make up each "building" of these Florentine-inspired Renaissance homes. Even the roof, flipped over, is a dish. Stefano Seletti, the founding head of SELAB, the creative lab driving the Italian brand his family started in 1964, charged frequent collaborator Alessandro Zambelli to design tableware that, well, doesn't really look like tableware when it's not in use. It appears, Stefano doesn't always keep the neatest of kitchens. These porcelain palaces certainly provide some, uh, structure to his chaos."

http://aplusrstore.com/product.php?id=521&cid=28

Spotted! {Banana Plants}

2010-11-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

I had to get a replacement bowl at IKEA the other day and couldn't resist checking out their plants. They are a good price and they live, they live! even though I don't have a green thumb. The banana plants are only $49... and for such a large plant, this is a steal!

Day with the Set Decorator {glee}

2010-10-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

Remember I went on that tour of the set of True Blood (so fun!)? The Set Decorator Society of America is having another one - on the set of Glee. Any student of design who is interested in the world of set design would benefit from this experience.

Day with the Set Decorator – Is on for Saturday November 6th with a tour of Fox T.V.’s cultural phenomena ‘Glee’ as well as tours of legendary prop houses Hollywood Studio Gallery, Prop Services West and House of Props. Decorator Docents are needed for morning or afternoon (or all day) assistance…please contact Laura Richarz at laurasdsabiz@yahoo.com to volunteer. And did you know Business Member employees get a 50% discount!?...come see how your merchandise is used and learn the craft from the best. Registration forms and additional information is available online or from the SDSA Office.

Craigslist Find {Bar Cart}

2010-10-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

Cool find from Craigslist. The main reason this rocks is because it folds - it could just fold right under the sofa!

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/fuo/2020039104.html

The Cosmopolitan

2010-10-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Creative magazine ads from The Cosmopolitan - Las Vegas.

Greek Pottery {Laptop?}

2010-10-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for my History of Arch/Design/Decor test. This is a closeup of an ancient piece of Greek pottery. Doesn't it kinda look like that student is using a stylus on a tablet or laptop or something? Funny! It is apparently some tool for writing.

SFDC Visit

2010-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I needed to pick up samples at the San Francisco Design Center today. Here are a few snaps of my visit (forgive the pic quality as I am still learning my DROID X camera):

Osborne & Little fabric samples

Osborne & Little color and pattern vignette

I love this particular pattern!

View of inside of one of the design center buildings - event that evening

Design Center event - Culinarium 2010

Internal courtyard showing showroom entrances

City view from the 4th floor of design center

Then I made my way across the street to check out the new Restoration Hardware showroom for myself. This isn't like the normal Restoration Hardware store you are used to. It is lovely!

Outdoor area showcasing Resto outdoor furniture collections

Bathroom flora display (it smelled like jasmine in there!)

Then I left the area just in time to get caught in Giants traffic! But I picked up some great wallpaper samples and Benjamin Moore paint chips and got ideas for the outdoor space for my studio project - so pretty productive!

Spotted! {Unoffensive Graffiti}

2010-10-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

I've never seen knitted graffiti in the wild before. Saw it on parking meters near school on 3rd before Mission.

Cocktail Hour {Piaget}

2010-10-14T20:30:00.000-07:00

Once you get past the stunning gemstones and sparkle of the diamonds, you may think these little beauties look like something familiar. They resemble Sex on the Beach, Cosmo, Whiskey on the Rocks, etc. Cocktail rings from Piaget! What a creative design!

http://www.piaget.com/jewellery/white-gold-topaz-diamond-ring-g34lm200

When a Regular Table Just Won't Do

2010-10-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

RON GILAD

Butler No. 1

Israel/USA, 2009

mixed media

60 w x 14 d x 46 h inches

This work is unique.

$24,000

Find it here.

Textiles {Made by You}

2010-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

What is Envelop? "Envelop is an online print-on-demand platform where illustrators can create, promote and sell high quality cotton items to textile lovers worldwide. Visitors can easily download product templates of textile items in order to customize them. Still, there is no real, physical stock. Every single order is cotton printed and assembled in Belgium by means of an eco defendable production process. Moreover, it contains a unique label featuring the designer's as well as the receiver's info. This workflow allows customers to gain exclusive and unique designer textile items, made in Belgium, executed in 100% pure cotton, using an eco friendly procedure. For every sold item, the designer immediately receives a part of the sales price as royalty. To fully promote their textile designs, contributing designers are automatically enabled to open their own Designer Shop, which can be reached trough a personal envelop-URL (www.envelop.eu/shop/my-shop-name)."

Items ready for customization

design options

http://www.envelop.eu/

Sew Exciting! {Sale}

2010-10-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

The sale we have all been waiting for...
Join us for store wide discounts! Monday, Oct. 11 (open late 10-7) and Tuesday, Oct. 12 (open 10-6) only!

Britex is having a sale! 30 percent off just about everything including notions and remnants.

Spotted! {Green}

2010-10-05T22:11:00.001-07:00

So on the way to the game Sunday, I spotted some vertical gardens in action!

Nice fence by the way too. Got a Yucatan pattern going there...

Yes, the game was thrilling. Can't beat the view! Even in the 'cheap' seats!

On the way to the post-game partying at Pedro's... cute window box and plantings. I know, who has landscaping on the brain when all the fanfare was going on? Me!

Spotted! {Mosaics}

2010-09-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

Walking to Audi to pick up my car (maintenance)... Spotted this cheery mosaic tile work around a doorway on the way... next to the psychic... bright days ahead?

Spotted! {Eichler Home}

2010-09-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

My first visit to an Eichler!

"Joseph Eichler (1900–1974) was a 20th century post-war U.S. American real estate developer known for developing distinctive residential subdivisions of Mid-Century modern style Tract housing in California, United States. He was one of the influential advocates of bringing modern architecture from custom residences and large corporate buildings to general public availability. His company and developments named "Eichler Homes" remain in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area and Greater Los Angeles regions of western California." Wikipedia

Picture Frames {Corner}

2010-09-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is pretty sweet! Corner frame set from Umbra.

http://www.umbra.com/ustore/product/316490/c213/empire_wall_frame.html

Featured {Etsy Treasury}

2010-09-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

Cool! My Liberty & Denim tote was featured in an Etsy Treasury dedicated to Liberty prints! Thanks ScarlettRose! http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c96f8d426068eef0d68b8f5/liberty-love?index=2 Etsy seller ScarlettRose sells Liberty fabrics here.

This is my fav!

ASID Event {Bonhams and Butterfields}

2010-09-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

Friday I went to the ASID CA North and Bonhams and Butterfields event for a talk by Suzanne Tucker on buying and incorporating items purchased at auction in designs. There was a mock auction afterwards where I won a bottle of wine! It was so fun! We got to peruse the SoMa Auction items, an auction of estate items that is held monthly.

2009 IIDA Leaders Breakfast

2010-09-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

The IIDA Leader's Breakfast was at the Four Seasons and featured keynote speaker Amy Tan. I volunteered the event -- love the sun-up pictures of the patio view. Still trying to figure out how to get the best pics from my DROID X...

Craigslist find {Folding desk}

2010-09-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

What an interesting Craigslist find. I love furniture that changes into things or hides parts of it. We used to have an awesome bar with a similar idea that folded up into a plain cabinet (it was on wheels) - which was nice to hide all the booze and bar accessories with can be a bit of a clutter monster. I feel like there is a chance that a desk that folds would be kept open all the time though.

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Shirt}

2010-09-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Not a very flattering shot but here is the first shirt I've sewn! I had to get all my sewing in b/c school has started and I'm busy!

Autodesk Gallery

2010-09-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

I volunteered for the Architecture and The City event last week - it was at the Autodesk Gallery at One Market Street in SF. While the event itself was about newly designed homes that were toured over the weekend, the Gallery shows items and ideas that have come to life with the help of Autodesk software. They also have a couple of 3D printers there! Cool!

Look out! Attempting Crafts {My First Quilt}

2010-09-10T11:58:00.000-07:00

Who said quilting was easy? It isn't! I thought it would be for some reason! Especially since all I had were straight lines for my triangles. I don't know if I have the patience to do another one for a while. Why isn't there a close up pic of my quilt? Because it isn't that good! I used the "Flock of Triangles" pattern from Denyse Schmidt Quilts. Let's all admire it from afar.

Craft Bar {MOCFA}

2010-09-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

First Thursday of every month is CRAFT BAR Etsy Lab at Museum of Craft & Folk Art in San Francisco (6-9pm).

"CRAFT BAR is an innovative Museum of Craft and Folk Art public program which connects the crafting community to the museum’s educational and curatorial mission by creating a vibrant and dynamic afterhours collective crafting environment. The love of making and the desire to socialize are brought together under the MOCFA artistic programming umbrella @ CRAFT BAR.

Featuring an original, easy to follow, craft project designed to guide and encourage creativity, CRAFT BAR allows the participant to create a handmade take-away from a museum gallery setting. Activities are led by visiting artists or resident crafters, who also demonstrate the projects live online in the Virtual Labs, Etsy's online interactive classrooms, at 1pm PT the day of CRAFT BAR for those unable to attend in-person. For those who prefer less structure, there is also a Stitch and Bitch area to continue projects or start new ones.

From crocheting with recycled plastic bags to creating fabric flower brooches and hand-sewing plushie robots, there is something to engage all ages. When weather permits, a Craft Garden is opened on Yerba Buena Lane. Trumer Pils provides refreshments; Britex Fabrics provides materials; and other local food and musicians often contribute to create an event overflowing with food, drink, and socializing.

Take inspiration from the Museum Gallery and the Store while you explore the creative process @ CRAFT BAR!" More info here.

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Dress}

2010-09-05T14:15:00.001-07:00

This was so fun and easy to make with a Burda pattern and the awesome remnants denim I found at Britex. It is a tad short so I'll probably wear tights. I feel like this shape looks good on everyone so I might make a couple for my Etsy shop.

When Wildlife Attacks {Sewing}

2010-09-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Skat cat! Well what do ya know? Trying to lay out my pattern and a feline thinks he has found the perfect resting spot!

Art Murmur {Oakland First Fridays}

2010-09-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

Going to another round of the Art Murmur tonight. Why not? One of the stops is in our apartment building! It happens on First Fridays of the month.

http://oaklandartmurmur.com/

Custom Order {Bridesmaids Gifts}

2010-08-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

My Etsy site has been a bit neglected but not for long! I have a lot of goodies in mind I plan to make for my shop. A surprise was a request for custom pieces. I made a Proenza Schouler linen jewelry roll and a gal wanted a few for her bridesmaids gifts. I made some suggestions for fabrics and here is what we came up with! It was so fun working with these exquisite linens from Anna Sui, Oscar de la Renta and others. I was shocked how quick I got everything done... I was on a roll! Ha ha!

Beige is Beautiful

2010-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am always struggling to understand those at school who love neutrals and hate color (which I worship!). But for those of you who think BEIGE IS BEAUTIFUL, here are snaps of the Oval Office makeover. The changes include darker beige sofas than before, a more modern coffee table and a new rug (is it oval shaped or round?).

Handy Cabinet (Manufactum}

2010-08-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

Wow! How useful does this little cabinet look? Although it is cardboard, I don't necessarily think that would diminish the durability. I have a makeup train case that is essentially covered cardboard and it has lasted forever. Find the space saver here.

Martha Resources {Industrial Lighting}

2010-08-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

The latest Martha Stewart Living is epic! There are so many useful resources including Rejuvenation for lighting and bulbs but especially for antique restored lighting. Examples of the bright lights here:

Industrial Storage Idea

2010-08-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

I was browsing to find a possible replacement for my dilapidated bookshelf and was considering industrial bookcases. Then I came across these rotating bins... this would be great way to organize a craft room or office! Find the link to GilmoreKramer here.

Mad Men Charity eBay Auction

2010-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Oh snap! Furniture from the actual Mad Men set on sale here!

Bedroom Makeover {Brooklyn}

2010-08-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

My friend May made a big move to Brooklyn last year to study design at a top school. She sent me some shots of her minor bedroom makeover that made a big difference!

May says... "I just painted it because, I woke up one morning and really needed a change and I know that color has the ability to change the way someone feels and their optimism. Yellow, happens to be my favorite color, so I went out to the Home Depot in Manhattan on a hot 90 degree afternoon, and picked out a primary yellow and came home to paint a wall. It was the first time I've ever painted a room, so it felt like an accomplishment to me."

Bedroom before

A little paint and elbow grease

Voila! Cute bedroom!

May and her cheery room

Well done May! Can't wait to visit!

Viceroy Santa Monica

2010-08-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was in LA and partied it up at the Viceroy in Santa Monica. I was never totally convinced by the style of Kelly Wearstler because I like a little more of a modern bend but this place is the tops! It is just spectacular! I didn't see any rooms but all the common areas were perfection. The color choices, the patterns, accessories, everything was so well thought out. Take a visit to The Viceroy in LA to enjoy the design for yourself. Stay a night only if you want to party it up, not if you want to get any sleep!

Crafting Sneak Peak

2010-08-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Wondering what might be headed to my Etsy shop or my future gift giving? Working on my FIRST quilt! Using Denise Schmidt's Flock of Triangles project, some black and white scraps and bright Kona red. Fun! (My rotary cutter is so dull now!)

Grand Lake Theater

2010-08-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

When we aren't Imaxing at the Metreon in SF, we go to our local theater - The Grand Lake. I spotted painters giving the exterior a little sprucing.

A little paint and voila!

San Francisco Allsteel showroom

2010-07-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Last night I was at an event at the Allsteel showroom at 4 Maritime Plaza. I was able to snap some pics before the festivities. Nice!

ABC Carpet & Home

2010-07-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

More than just carpet! I periodically obsess over nice rugs at famous New York staple ABC Carpet and Home's online presence. Next time I go to NYC (to visit May!) I will def have to pop-in in person. Their online shop has so much more than just rugs. Here are a few items I love:

small fountain for creating a calming space

steelwood chair

3D kids construction toy

el sol pillow

Kartell spoon chair

chaise (this is wild!)

screw table

spiderwebs under glass

antique fabric book

marble icon

table lamp

New at DWR!

2010-07-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

How chic are these chairs? I love the dual color scheme and those peg legs! Both are from Dane Finn Juhl who designed in the 40's. The sofa is called "Poet" and the chair "Pelican". Juhl "created his furniture to be comfortable, made with the best craftsmanship traditions and showing an appreciation of materials." Juhl said that "[a] chair is not just a product of decorative art in space, it is a form and space in itself." Each chair has different color combinations that you can choose from. $5,200 to $8,000. Find more info here.

New Set at Mad Men

2010-07-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

Were you as excited for the Mad Men season premiere last night as I was? And a great episode of True Blood? What a night of good t.v.! Now that the newly formed Sterling Cooper Draper Price has moved into their new offices, we can oggle their furniture and accessories. Here are two great blog posts from The Mid Century Modernist and Design Public that delve right into the mad world of the ad men.

2010-07-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Lots of new exhibitions starting this month at the SF MOMA. Did anyone make it to the free day last week? I had class but ate lunch at Cafe Museo - the whole area was nuts! Below are a couple of the current exhibitions. The Fisher Collection (Gap fortune) is the main showcase. More info here.

New Topographics: Photographs of a Man-Altered Landscape
July 17 - October 03, 2010
A turning point in the history of photography, the 1975 exhibition New Topographics signaled a radical shift away from traditional depictions of landscape. Pictures of transcendent…

Picturing Modernity
July 17 - October 03, 2010
Organized in conjunction with New Topographics: Photographs of a Man-Altered Landscape, this installation of the SFMOMA collection explores the concept of place in American…

Sale at Viva Terra {Felt Stones}

2010-07-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

Remember seeing those pricey, yet well made felt cushions? Viva Terra has affordable outdoor versions.

"Responding to your requests,we've introduced an outdoor version of our popular felted wool stones. Treated with a water-resistant coating, they add whimsy to any garden setting. Renowned South African textile designer Ronel Jordaan has set up a women's workshop in Johannesburg, where trained artisans transform interlocking fibers, made from 100% merino wool, into free-form oversized "stone" pillows, cushions and mats. They provide inviting, buoyantly comfortable seating. Hand washable in cold water. SMALL 12"W x 14"D x 5"H, MEDIUM 16"W x 20"D x 12"H, LARGE 27"W x 31"D x 16"H"

The link is here. Other items in the Outdoor Sale include a cute bistro table/chair set and decorative items.

Sagrada Familia - Barcelona

2010-07-13T12:04:00.000-07:00

I wrote about Sagrada Familia a bit before when we studied Gaudi in History class. Studying this place and seeing it in person are two different things. It is stunning! The first picture shows some of the more recent work while the second picture shows older work. And construction is still going! There were so many little details that it was impossible to capture them all in photos. Door details, small animals, stained glass, tiles, etc. It was endless beauty! And talk about having a job for life! Lucky architects and craftsmen!

More Inspiration Pics from Barcelona & Bilbao

2010-07-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Lobby of Hotel Pulitzer - Barcelona

Restaurant in Hotel Pulitzer

Stone wall in Museo Picasso

Lots of beautiful doors in Barcelona

Large sign on top of Barcelona building

Inside a Gaudi building

Gaudi furniture

Stained glass in Sagrada Familia (Gaudi)

Barcelona (German) Pavilion - Mies van de Rohe - 1929 if you can believe that!

The Barcelona chairs!

Exterior cathedral light

Really old vessels in a restaurant (former church storage room)

Lobby from above - Hotel Gran Domine Bilbao

Nice wallpaper/picture wall in Pepe Jeans London in Bilbao

Random garage door with perspective drawing - Barcelona

Patterns of Barcelona

2010-07-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

We are back from Barcelona & Bilbao. Here are a few snaps of patterns I spotted mostly in tiles, but in glass, nature, etc.

Adios Amigos {For a while anyway}

2010-06-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

Going on summer vacay with hubby. I won't have my laptop (ya'll know how heavy it is, I've been complaining) so probably no posts. But I'll fill ya'll in when I get back. Adios!

Look out! Attempting Crafts {Liberty Skirt}

2010-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I think it is pretty good for my first try at a skirt. Skirts are fun b/c there are so many ways to personalize them. Liberty of London! So soft, but it is really just 100% cotton. I opted for ric-rac but there are plenty of ribbons, buttons, pleats, pocket options. I used Sew U (Built by Wendy) for my pattern.