Lilac + Sage – Periwinkle + Mint Interior Design Inspiration

It makes me so happy that we are still celebrating purple in our color of the month this month! Any purple in green combination is also a tricky combination, especially for an interior designer like me.

Let’s dive into the unique and not-often-used tones of lilac and periwinkle paired with fresh mint and calming sage.

On a side note, recently I’ve been playing with Spoak to keep my creative juices flowing and interior design feeling fresh. Finding inspiration is a huge part of being an interior designer! I played with this combination of lovely and unique colors, combining lilac and sage green. Balancing the color scheme, while using warm oak and other natural tones to help ground the space, and sculptural forms to add a beautiful and expensive, chic look.

Link goes to a list of used products from my Spoak account

Now both of these colors can definitely hold their own in a single design, so designing with both can definitely be a challenge. It’s even harder to find reference and inspiring images, so create your own and design boldly! I love this bold combination of daring colors and the emotion they can evoke.

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What do you think about the difference in these combinations? Which is your favorite? Does this inspire you to dive into these unique combinations?

Click to open inspiration of periwinkle, and more combinations of these light purple and fresh green combinations.

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Pillows of the Week #8: Cozy Periwinkle

Still inspired by the Pantone color of the month! A relaxed pillow design, with tons of texture, and tonal periwinkle mixed with warm neutrals for interest and grounding.

1. West Elm / Fieldscape Pillow Cover / Light Mauve / 20″ x 20″
2. Pottery Barn / Bayside Seedstitch Pillow Cover / Ivory / 22″ x 22″
3. Bed, Bath & Beyond / Olivia & Oliver Velvet Oblong Throw Pillow / Periwinkle / 14″ x 24″
4. Urban Outfitters / Tia Modern Throw Pillow / Lilac / 14″ x 20″
5. Sunday Citizen / Snug Waffle Mini Pillow / Purple Haze / 12″ x 18″
6. Urbanscape Co / Knot Cushion, Periwinkle

July 2022 Loaded Post: Freebies 💜 procreate palette, backgrounds, inspiration

Happy JULY my friends! Every once in a while… I still think it’s April so I have some catching up to do. I am so excited to start Aesthete Workshop’s monthly freebie series on a happy note. My favorite color is purple (as you know if you’ve even seen my little Etsy shop, my Instagram, or me, in person) and I’m excited to fill your July with the lovely bright pastel purples and greens of spring.

Scroll down below for Freebies!

Let’s start with some inspiration!

As soon as Pantone announced this joyful purple color as the official Color of the Year, my year was officially made. I’ve got my heart set on this color of the year mug.

I was very inspired by the bright shades of this palette, courtesy of this year’s Pantone, but I wanted to lean into the unexpected pairing of green and purple together. I wanted a palette that leaned towards pastel tones, but stayed energetic, and welcomed unique and unexpected combinations for interest and depth.

Dark Masculine, Deep Spaces

Heavy in black, with warm wood tones, rustic leather, and hefty furniture, masculine rooms with dark colors carry a luxe, seductive quality that cannot be beat. My husband loves these deep, dark spaces, and although my aesthetic runs a bit more airy and feminine, I have come to appreciate the amazing aura that they carry.

A dark color carries a heavy weight to it, and since black is the darkest of colors, it weighs the most. In a room, it feels overwhelming without the right balance of warm woods, finishes, and architectural detail.

Source: Kathy Kuo Blog – How to Create the True Gentleman’s Bachelor Pad

More deep, dark masculine spaces! ⬇️

My “On the Go” Work Kit

I work at home, and I absolutely love it. Since I am an introvert, I love being in my own space, letting home inspire me, and I don’t get tired of my own company. Being an online interior design grants me this very big perk, along with being able to connect with clients all over the US. Since having affordable and personal design in your home is something I so strongly believe in, I really love spreading the word that you can afford interior design – by doing it online!

Every Tuesday, I venture out of the house to work elsewhere. It’s a big goal of mine. This is a pretty essential habit of my every week, since spending all day every day at home turns me into a grumpy shut-in. I am a very organized person, so keeping my work life 100% organized – while still being mobile – is a very important part of my life. So here is how I do it!

First off, my computer (and access to the internet) is obviously the most important piece of doing online interior design. This is a tricky piece of my life right now, since my 8 year old Macbook Pro died a few weeks ago (😭), but I have been able to get by, chatting with my clients through my phone, and borrowing my husband’s work computer. But, I am going to be changing up my mobile life by buying a Chromebook. Since a Chromebook works 100% online, all of my files will be 100% backed up in the cloud at all times, and working through Google servers. I will be able to access them from any computer, so switching between my laptop and my desktop will be no work at all. These days, forgetting my external hard drive means I need to run home again before I can work. Having a Chromebook will definitely be something to get used to, especially since it works more like a tablet than a laptop, by in my life, taking my whole work life online is definitely more of a pro than a con. Currently, there is no way to use photoshop on a Chromebook, but Adobe is working on making an app for streaming Photoshop using Adobe servers, which I am really looking forward to. But for now, I will have to do all my photoshop work in the days I am at home – before I head out into the world!

My work book is one of those mini binders from Target. Each of my projects are behind a tab divider, and I write down – yes, by hand – every piece of information a client gives to me. Writing it down makes me focus in on exactly what they want, and I am way less likely to forget something if it is in list form, right in front of me! I also print out and keep their photos on hand and draw out their floor plan, so I don’t have to switch back and forth between screens, and I add information with layers of sticky notes. Whenever a client sends me a piece of information, a thought, or an idea, I write it down and stick it on their main information page. I always spend the first part of my work day keeping my work book updated, and it is always open and in front of me whenever I am working!

My bullet journal not only keeps my main to-do lists organized, but also keeps me connected to and balanced in my personal life. I keep track of what I am eating, drinking, how much sleep I get, and then fun things, like the books I read, my ideas, and what I really want to get done in my day. A bullet journal has been such a trendy thing for a while, so I didn’t jump on board until recently – but, you guys, I am glad I did. It helps me focus into a single day, or zoom out and plan my whole month at once, as well as keep all my goals in sight. I will be writing a blog post soon about how it has really helped me both in my work life, and in my day-to-day life too!

My big calendar is just a monthly work calendar with all my project due dates in it. I like that I can see a whole month in a spread, and I don’t have to flip through weeks or individual days (I have my bullet journal for that anyway). I can also see what’s coming up in the next week, and how far I should work ahead on each of my projects. I work so that I get everything done for a project two days ahead of time, and this helps me keep that in mind too. When I setup where I am working for my day, I lay my calendar down first, with my work book on top, and work over them to get to my laptop. That way, all of what I need to do is constantly in front of my as I work.

I carry everything I have in my favorite Herschel backpack. It isn’t too big, so I can’t carry too much, and since it only has one main pocket, I can see everything all stacked together, instead of getting confused by so many tiny pockets. I also have a few casual cross-body purses that I carry around – so my phone, keys, and wallet are in easy reach. I don’t want to open my whole backpack to get what I need right in front of me.

Settling down to work in front of a computer all day isn’t always the most encouraging thought, so I go out of my way to make sure I am comfortable all day. I am really not shy about carrying a blanket (or two, I’ll be honest), and dressing in layers. Here in Colorado, weather can not be too friendly, so being confident whether in the snow or sun is my goal every day. Since I am cold practically every second of the day, I have been pretty obsessed with little felt boots and I constantly wear sweaters. Cozy and warm are definitely my fashion goals.

And of course, I carry headphones, my phone charger and a little toiletry kit – because seriously – a little mirror, hair ties, Neutrogena shine control powder, and this gem are necessary to me when I am in public. I also carry a snap-top cup for water, and it’s 16oz so I can always track how much I hydrate in a day.

Working from home is definitely a dream come true! It is amazing to me how much joy it has given me in my life. Almost as much as my clients and the projects I am honored to work on every day. Staying organized, and keeping all of my information in front of me is definitely a priority, so finding ways to do this is important. But, it can also be fun! I love keeping a bullet journal, finding amazing places to work, and keeping my life ordered. It’s one of my favorite things.

But being organized doesn’t mean you can’t work away from your desk! Taking my laptop outside, finding a coffee shop I can walk to, or taking the light rail downtown not only gives me energy and a purpose in my day, but inspires me by showing me new things and places. Interior design is everywhere! And noticing those details makes me a better designer. Because: inspiration leads to motivation.

On Trend: Moroccan

Somewhere between pouring over Tintin comics and that one episode of Trading Spaces where Genevieve Gorder hung a bed from the ceiling, my childhood was filled with books of Morocco and Moroccan architecture (that tile! Those arches!). I still absolutely love the detail, the calming white walls, and how everything goes just so perfectly together.

When I was younger, I was so certain that when I grew up, I would not only spend a lot of my time in the amazing vacation homes there, but my home would reflect my love for Morocco – in its full glory. Though the full on color and glitter I was imagining in my childhood mind is certainly not how I picture my home these days, as I dream about my future home, I would love to bring some large scale Moroccan tile, airy drapery fabrics, and an incredible rug, along with some other accents, into my home.

These days, Moroccan details are found just about everywhere in interior design. Vintage Moroccan rugs, leatherworking, and wedding blankets can be seen on just about every trendy blog and instagram – and I am loving it! No matter what Moroccan details you choose to include in your home, it definitely brings a breath of fresh air, and a new global perspective.

Source: Lonny Riad El Fenn

There are definitely some simple things that you can do to add the casual ease of the trendy Moroccan interior design style.

First, throw a moroccan pouf in a corner, in front of a sofa, or slide two under a console table on your wall. Grab this one from Bohemia to bring genuine moroccan feel to your home.

Replace your coffee table with a classy moroccan tray one. This one from Pier 1 jump starts your moroccan decor, and brings amazing detail and wood tone to your space.

Finally, an easy thing to do is use a moroccan wedding blanket – or Handira – as a heavy blanket across your couch or bringing amazing texture to your bed. World Market has this one which you can use as a rug, or a heavy throw.

Next: There are two companies you should go to first for other Moroccan decor – pillows, bedding, and other housewares – to fill in the spaces in your home.

First: Bohemia Design has an amazing collection of blankets and Handira’s, and also, the softest Moroccan slippers you will ever slip on your feet. I go here first if I am looking for a Hammam towel (Turkish bath towel), and their pompom baskets are also adorable.

Second: Tigmi Trading is the place you go for amazing Moroccan rugs and floor pillows. Their rugs, both in neutrals and bright colors, have amazing, heavy texture, and become a perfect feature in your room.

It doesn’t take much to include the light, airy, and romantic atmosphere of Morocco in your home! A few details can go a long way to add the emotion of the cool breeze, raw woods, and amazing shapes in Moroccan architecture and design.

Maybe one day I will get to Morocco – be able to walk the city streets, see the markets, and feel the ocean breeze – but for now, I love to see it trending, and include a little of it in my own home.

Colors of the Month – March

Every week, on Monday, I sit down at my desk, in front of my computer, and spend an hour (or more) getting inspired by interior design blogs, recent trends, cool architecture projects, and other pieces of the industry that draw my attention. By starting my week out this way, I end up feeling more motivated in my work and more inspired even by the work that I, myself, am doing. Since sometimes working with clients can take most of the inspiration I have on a long vacation, staying motivated by what I love is definitely an important part of my job. It’s good for me, and it’s good for my clients!

Each month, I choose a color theme, and in my bullet journal, put together a collage each week of that specific week’s inspiration. By choosing things I love, to keep me inspired all week, my work becomes more passionate and focused.

Source: Domino 35 Ways to Use Sage Green

This month, my color theme was green! I loved the trendy photos of green interiors in deep, romantic shades, and bright plants everywhere I turned. I also thought it was hilariously ironic that March’s color is green – for St. Patrick’s Day – anyway!

Let me walk you through the four weeks of inspiration that I found motivating me in my work all month. Photo sources are at the very bottom!

Week 1: Deep Green – Teal

Way more green to go! ⤵️

Pillows of the Week #3

In honor of my post where I practically obsess over the new spring outdoor furniture collections (read that here!), this weeks theme is bringing together some of the outdoor pillows I found on my online shopping spree. I love that being outdoors in the morning is such a peaceful and fresh experience, so I wanted to capture that in the colors and soft patterns.

Outdoor Pillows – Serenity

I love the cool blues and how so much white makes this set feel like a breath of fresh air. I included a little bit of texture, but mostly kept to prints, so overall the set feels smooth and complete. A little bit of text captures the feeling of serenity, with just the right size and font to keep it aligned with the other pillows, and since it is embroidered, it adds just a little bit of shine.

1. Serena & Lily / Montecito Outdoor Pillow Cover / Ivory / 24″ Sq.
2. World Market / Green Fern Outdoor Throw Pillow
3. Serena & Lily / Montecito Outdoor Pillow Cover / Ivory / 12″ x 21″
4. Pottery Barn / Sunbrella Awning Stripe Indoor/Outdoor Pillow / Spa Blue
5. Ballard Design / Vacay Embroidered Indoor/Outdoor Pillow
6. ATG Stores / Pillow Perfect / Outdoor Seeing Spots Corded Square Throw Pillow / Set of 2 / Sterling

It is so amazing to spend time outside – and making it a little more comfortable and fabulous is definitely worth the effort! Whether it is as simple as rolling up a rug or bringing a throw to lay on the grass (or cement, depending on where you live), to cuddling up on an outdoor sectional with an incredible view, spending time in the fresh air as soon as you wake up starts your day off right, and jump starts your day with a perfect sense of serenity!

Living Al Fresco Loco

Here is my guide to the new Spring 2017 outdoor furniture lineup!

My absolute favorite part of getting into the new interior design spring season is when the outdoor furniture lines come out. Really – I get super excited. The new dining setups, lounge seating, and beautiful photos remind me that perfect weather is right around the corner! Since most of my life I lived in Seattle, the 3 months of sun that we got for pretty much the entire year invited me to spend all of that time out in the fresh air. I really felt the benefits of soaking up the sun and enjoying the rare Seattle blue skies. I would always keep my window open, crawl out on the roof to read, and spread out my summer homework on the patio table. Now that I live in Colorado, the weather is sunny and beautiful a lot of the time! I love taking advantage of spending as much time as I can outside. And one day, when we have bought our own house, making a comfortable and inviting place to spend time outside is one of my number one goals.

Transforming your outdoor space into something special invites everyone to spend more time out in the open air, and in good weather, being outside is still one of my favorite places to be. Though outdoor furniture is definitely considered a luxury, and usually has a higher price point to prove it, it can definitely transform your space through the mere invitation of sitting by the fire pit, or having dinner at your patio table. It is a constant reminder of the potential of spending time outside: the more you love it, the more likely you are to use it.

Another bonus: since it is so early in the season – everything is on sale right now!

Source: Refreshed Take on the Gable Shines in Austin’s Building Boom

“Al Fresco” is an amazing Italian phrase which means “in the open air.” You may have heard this phrase in relation to dining outside specifically – maybe back in 2007 when “Al Fresco dining” was becoming a huge trend – but I love thinking about this idea of turning your lifestyle to the outdoors when the weather turns brighter. Many modern houses have a covered outdoor patio, or place specifically designed for spending time outside. Making this a special place to gather your family, spend time in community, or just enjoy the nice weather will invite you to join that “Al Fresco” lifestyle. Besides, sun is really good for you.

Here are some of my favorite companies, whose new spring lines have unfolded recently. I’ve put some seating areas together, to capture the feel (and show off my favorite pieces) of each of them. I decided to stick with a mint/aqua color scheme throughout all of these, so you could really see the differences between each company, and their amazing furniture pieces.

First off: Article.

 

Article is a great modern furniture company that specializes in cutting out the middle man to save you money. They also have a flat shipping cost for your whole order no matter where you live in the US and Canada. Their new summer line is definitely focused on materials, bringing you amazing looking washed wood, solid teak, casual steel, and heavy iron. I like how they really focus on making their pieces look like they truly belong outdoors, and they choose to focus on dining furniture, rather than split their efforts between a bunch of different collections and styles.

 

The brightness of the chairs, and the driftwood look of the main table and work table definitely feel like summer is coming. I also always love to have a little table by my patio table to hold condiments, or just put things on that you don’t want on your main table, but still need to access. An outdoor work table can act as a console table to help serve food buffet style, or keep drinks on, and a knitted pouf brings texture and a laid back feel to the space.

• Dining Table: Mira / Outdoor Dining Table for 6
• Dining Chair: Dot / Dining Chair / Malibu Aqua
• Accent Table: Po / Side Table / Graphite
• Work Table: Mira / Work Table
• Outdoor Pouf: Sunda / Pouf / Round / Pebble Gray