Kitchen Trends To Watch In 2015

A Reader’s House

<blockquote>     <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0DVuWU-ilCc/T_6m-7NasOI/AAAAAAABbFY/LFHVdOHH9P0/s1600-h/image%25255B231%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-0DVuWU-ilCc/T_6m-7NasOI/AAAAAAABbFg/a-2Izgd05cA/s1600-h/image%25255B268%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-a9cqngqOUtA/T_6nEshudPI/AAAAAAABbFk/WO6qWPGn5yk/image_thumb%25255B109%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="720"></a></a> Interior designer Megan Megas’ house – her interiors are an inspiration for the reader’s own house.   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--xBCynyjKMY/T_6nGLdzQiI/AAAAAAABbFs/tKH-dQ3p-TE/s1600-h/image%25255B269%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFPSoDaXKc7__GOcaKK3yrS8g9JhMG-zsf1R8x49LDIBw57Ck7wGkH4DFxMxXV0VJ3y9j6lljOmZSzltuEH6L6PIbdXbIwuAqpk8Yu0it15Y5-XXzb7i_wy8nDMK59uoEfZSxJNWAlcYz/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="602"></a> Megas’ dining room – the reader is looking for chairs like these.   I got an email from a long time Cote de Texas reader who told me how hooked she was on Megan Megas’ house – featured here and in the magazine Antique Shops & Designers <a href="http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/c5f2ca79#/c5f2ca79/1">HERE</a>. Megas is Pam Pierce’s long time assistant who is now taking on her own design jobs.  The reader, Toni (like Joni!) – really loves Megas’ aesthetic – particularly the eclectic mix of contemporary and old with textural and organic pieces.  She sent along a picture of her living room to show me – and – wow!   I really loved what she has done with it and asked her to submit more pictures.  So, here is the reader, Toni’s house, located in a smaller Texas town:  </blockquote> <blockquote>   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IvQComssgk0/T_6nJ4xAlmI/AAAAAAABbF8/d70xNrmFoJg/s1600-h/image%25255B366%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y8xQsObvt3k/T_6nLIXTu7I/AAAAAAABbGE/vMb9dYfYwlQ/image_thumb%25255B174%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="478"></a> Beautiful dark hardwoods, a black front door and a lantern great you.     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CPIQI983ay0/T_6nMTw5G5I/AAAAAAABbGM/_fuXft-sAOA/s1600-h/image%25255B156%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CPIQI983ay0/T_6nMTw5G5I/AAAAAAABbGU/V905tzYaPXs/s1600-h/image%25255B364%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N2Q_3sgvhIM/T_6nP4mHbdI/AAAAAAABbGY/bwP2zoGQtIA/image_thumb%25255B172%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="534"></a></a> Against one wall is an old vintage print of Houston that Toni bought from Hong @ Hien Lam!  This print was left in the warehouse when the Lams bought it – there were originally two of them.  Now, why didn’t I ever notice the print???  Toni says she’s wanted it for 3 years and finally got the nerve to ask Hong about it.  I love the beige rug against the hardwoods and the collection of stools.        <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Mffbj2GL-NM/T_6nRwAjCTI/AAAAAAABbGg/GpTet5_xgoE/s1600-h/image%25255B20%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Mffbj2GL-NM/T_6nRwAjCTI/AAAAAAABbGo/oYxstfJ72yM/s1600-h/image%25255B240%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWI8MoV-CwDInQiYmmhJ9ONmNZe5JU6ryWhqbutRyvokzMWv0iCCaghtEUjber05Fqqs33GfCJ9LvQpC0j0mlRz0T1KdBcGllc_tRlzi0IpSzteAY6WZ5cTvaxkD2NEJo-j88TU3FpWalF/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1018"></a></a> Close up of the print.  Toni says it’s her pride and joy.   <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7iaaYq4YBZY/T_6nZyGXAdI/AAAAAAABbG0/Ndn06hDXpLI/s1600-h/image%25255B26%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d-iz_z4zY8w/T_6nb4c8NjI/AAAAAAABbG8/H3xftULgS64/s1600-h/image%25255B23%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-d-iz_z4zY8w/T_6nb4c8NjI/AAAAAAABbHE/dgCFt1QwZTw/s1600-h/image%25255B241%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8PqAABtsx1A/T_6neg3ms-I/AAAAAAABbHI/k3Olk4k6xqs/image_thumb%25255B89%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="440"></a></a></a> I love the large French olive oil jar.  I want one so badly!  She bought this one from <a href="http://www.hienlamhome.com/">Hien Lam Home</a>.   <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbKknSzHawRDMSBBLGMkwXn7j6S6hKG4gtLRi_6ToRbf-WmeG__9819zty0L2UQHsukNFxeWgoIVPjOomojBCBzaFBjb11K0lSRGBBDCHkeIllMFC_f_lJVtZvyAM6C4LH1i50-RzBcao/s1600-h/image%25255B242%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-DZB1X-i6bLk/T_6nh7cJ5FI/AAAAAAABbHU/8J45m9McMU0/image_thumb%25255B90%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="541"></a> Across the benches is this beautiful marble topped table – the architectural fragment under the cloche comes from The Two Lucys at <a href="http://www.maihouston.com/">MAI</a>, Houston.   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aXYP8iSzuyk/T_6nkw2iSqI/AAAAAAABbHc/B8oj8ZDSv3I/s1600-h/image%25255B210%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aXYP8iSzuyk/T_6nkw2iSqI/AAAAAAABbHk/Pku1lwE3PZg/s1600-h/image%25255B243%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wj8Z-8d62-w/T_6ns652G6I/AAAAAAABbHo/GI1HotrP608/image_thumb%25255B91%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a> Walking into the living area – the ceiling is vaulted, double height with tall windows and beams.  There is a fireplace on the left side and a large dresser and trumeau that anchors the room on the right side.  Isn’t this smashing?!!!!  This is the picture Toni first sent me when I went nuts over her house!  I love the mix with all the textures – the antiques and the vintage pieces, the light woods and all her accessories. The light from the tall windows near the ceiling moves around the room and makes it look different  at certain times of the day.  On this day – the sun was bright and the house was particularly bright.    Now – how old do you think Toni is to have amassed such a nice collection of beautiful furniture that looks so wonderful?   Would you believe she is only 28 years old????  That’s right!  She is 28 and is a stay at home with her 2 children –  3 years and 1 year.  Now…what were we saying about ageism?????   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-V5DbxkEpsjc/T_6nwRXYBmI/AAAAAAABbHw/11Cn4LD5Aco/s1600-h/image%25255B249%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOR0Vcn2QQmadm3Szgh2mW4n_a-B_rIRirlJfhbxW_Wt5Vm6mubtUi9Q29CPqRxvOva5nB4eQ-3-6aZamU2yDy4yAiP5vAhMQGH5PIenIYzuP2PPhliyGaisguWIGeC1CYK7C9SDrUsp8S/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1093"></a>  Her sofa is slipped with a beautiful waterfall skirt – and is in a linen, made by Hien Lam, of course!  Love the coffee table and the rug and how the colors of both are repeated in the assortment of pillows.  Across, the two wing chairs in a striped fabric add a dressy touch. Hien Lam upholstered or slipped all the furniture in the house.   <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YeUe8l6HoKs/T_6n2MAMMsI/AAAAAAABbIA/0isxYcE6y8I/s1600-h/image%25255B39%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QoE-rUZG23M/T_6n4htid3I/AAAAAAABbII/Km9tArZrkAw/image_thumb%25255B13%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1124"></a> Notice the difference in the light from the previous picture?  Such a great atmospheric touch. The fireplace is painted white bricks.   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NVmSUqruH88/T_6n7DFt1bI/AAAAAAABbIQ/LZiuC6BKUjU/s1600-h/image%25255B8%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NVmSUqruH88/T_6n7DFt1bI/AAAAAAABbIY/TvV2k4AXOPA/s1600-h/image%25255B250%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ckj8aAlZTfY/T_6oCYPtdmI/AAAAAAABbIc/lXU5iVnvzsI/image_thumb%25255B95%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a> And looking towards the back.  Toni has ordered new, thin curtain rods, but they aren’t here yet – so she said to not look at these!  OK, we won’t!  I love her pillows – especially those in the wing chairs – so cute.    <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-g49S9XYj9jM/T_6oD3MhynI/AAAAAAABbIk/9FPcJUumE3w/s1600-h/image%25255B255%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ngo2p6cu5cU/T_6oHS2NEhI/AAAAAAABbIs/zDTq66v0X6c/image_thumb%25255B98%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="534"></a> In this picture -  you can see the tall windows that let in the light – and the dark wood beams on the vaulted ceiling.  I love that #3 pillow – it really catches the eye.       <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3B9ma7Oel8lrkCB7vBJJEsYwBxvpejeQBIxFOD3z7Qdg6MSY4LRQmBdZURCiHOZ38MEVPdAh7zHjzx9PFlPjA-bzXn8ddILjjac977B_FDM7EPSHcAbTKB-U9ET_eVbCIgoRFAxl0uR4i/s1600-h/image%25255B5%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S3tPmxtA0nw/T_6oJMvSGoI/AAAAAAABbI8/zpk0lCvKMgk/s1600-h/image%25255B256%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HDiDEFTwVcY/T_6oPHcFicI/AAAAAAABbJA/RbAOYs7v86o/image_thumb%25255B99%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="866"></a></a> This piece came from her parent’s ranch – I love it with all its wonky drawers.  The trumeau was made by James Farmer according to Toni’s design.  James is the go-to furniture man in Houston.  He can make anything look older and better.  Plus he can make things – like this mirror.  He made the lamps in my own family room, btw.  Contact James through his <a href="http://www.facebook.com/james.farmer.146">facebook</a> page and he’ll get back with you!  I love the trumeau he made.   Reflected in the mirror is the hall leading to the bedrooms – where the sunburst mirror hangs.     <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YV61Xhb6Pk4/T_6oRRgaXUI/AAAAAAABbJI/O33w7vRWgqI/s1600-h/image%25255B14%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YV61Xhb6Pk4/T_6oRRgaXUI/AAAAAAABbJQ/eniXCsQDtp0/s1600-h/image%25255B257%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVW4fFw5704vYcfzURanANSDtgxTDZFQljl4ehWMfRZobtTsqhiY-qmqXzS5D9NqnpEyhoUPKblZc_LfBKhMbq7ZKVgWadE0l-81BHiI9kOR_el0srDePe5tZRyrrs7j_O9LheO4pk1Cz/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1140"></a></a> The jar is also from Marburger Farms in Round Top.  The brown cabinet under the flatscreen is Toni’s grandmother’s piece.      <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8Am1yYm7cxU/T_6oaXtyjsI/AAAAAAABbJc/Epj3p4E-RRI/s1600-h/image%25255B43%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8Am1yYm7cxU/T_6oaXtyjsI/AAAAAAABbJk/05MjN9fn5qY/s1600-h/image%25255B258%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--70TKo3WAxk/T_6oeMc7BLI/AAAAAAABbJo/CQUXbALIBAc/image_thumb%25255B101%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="471"></a></a> The altar sits on the painted brick fireplace hearth.     <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZuRFtRCtMvI/T_6ofhB3gZI/AAAAAAABbJw/yR_j0TRGWAU/s1600-h/image%25255B192%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZuRFtRCtMvI/T_6ofhB3gZI/AAAAAAABbJ4/-o_Gf3TmsFc/s1600-h/image%25255B355%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZDTCA4E6g-k/T_6ol5Jh_CI/AAAAAAABbJ8/FfFHfdYQ-sk/image_thumb%25255B166%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="614"></a></a> This hutch was black until James Farmer transformed it and turned it into a gray Swedish fauxtique!  Like that word I just made up?    <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ioPFemYPYu96Tk8FplT58k_LccAeA1olAaUDpVVJU5AxahvYK81uZQh5PncqVITFjZ3w8BIxpoOJKoi5sAo6QphVlMDAi0mvsLFPlX5hFF5WXCGADcXLf213uq0QLqFNMKH3dcGR2Dc/s1600-h/image%25255B353%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="1011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qi3pdqOGpFQ/T_6ophVpaOI/AAAAAAABbKM/ayIVN6WCXM0/image_thumb%25255B164%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="708"></a> Inside the hutch is a collection of shells and crowns and books.   <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-auXdh4kXfWQ/T_6oq2Tt-SI/AAAAAAABbKU/IHl0YPHRLE0/s1600-h/image%25255B370%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKr_JWBeI_1hZ-dDHdnzt2qaPbC_eH62v6d5B3N0o1m7Ia_5_KljVGlPbmLIZ5IAOXGO_0IV4FF96S6O7weR-5ydtb1b3T3X6a1dJfaDidks9GY8EmTh-mWftVriHbakjU41v_ISzl4oI/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="489"></a> The industrial styled table next to the sofa came from the Round Top antique show – at Marburger Farms.   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mQ3JsyW7TdY/T_6ouDyVtTI/AAAAAAABbKo/Jw5LOMX0IAQ/s1600-h/image%25255B65%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MC8hWmJ7_iY/T_6owbXDNUI/AAAAAAABbKw/r60O8vSBfsA/image_thumb%25255B25%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1043"></a> Love the sconces that James added to the trumeau for that authentic looking touch.    <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AY_ekNp9LE4/T_6oxRMEqTI/AAAAAAABbK4/oJBRhpMl1is/s1600-h/image%25255B29%25255D.png"></a>    <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AJ29I9i1pOg/T_6ozrlK5EI/AAAAAAABbLA/atdY6WL8D3g/s1600-h/image%25255B61%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AJ29I9i1pOg/T_6ozrlK5EI/AAAAAAABbLI/xgjpBtgFazo/s1600-h/image%25255B262%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6ULVVYHzgn4aT76e0DnNHSPqj1O14sKhn6xccuavK36DFrnQV069t0v9KmQkesfs9p5No9dZMpj2am-qfdyYrMfkovrn7c-Yq6brBZDWzdD4nshlZdpXXFwieTR-c7c10FOxzFkQj5AV/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a> The dining room connects through the living room.     <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mXZb61lSwng/T_6o8bFv6NI/AAAAAAABbLU/eyhu8QzKJE0/s1600-h/image%25255B204%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mXZb61lSwng/T_6o8bFv6NI/AAAAAAABbLc/xxRtWP7tum0/s1600-h/image%25255B263%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aMaq-qbAN34/T_6pDC6cthI/AAAAAAABbLg/yArUqrCaZqQ/image_thumb%25255B106%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="850"></a></a> The dining room is next to both the living room and the kitchen.  Against the back wall are fabulous lockers that Toni designed a metal base for them to sit on top of.   Inside the lockers are:  ironstone, antique silver pitchers, old glassware, antique cutting boards, rolling pins from <a href="http://www.wgardnerltd.com/">Bill Gardner</a> as well as new canisters and appliances.   <a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JavZpgcOnGs/T_6pFi2aymI/AAAAAAABbLo/l-_5KGLYpqg/s1600-h/image%25255B284%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fpEyJJ2F4ek/T_6pHLjVBoI/AAAAAAABbLw/BcrKzSkTpag/image_thumb%25255B120%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="534"></a></a> The lockers sits atop the custom base Toni designed for them – such a great looking piece!!! And what a clever idea!     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N9vEsdanfTE/T_6pJA-qP9I/AAAAAAABbL4/xelF7xVaIMk/s1600-h/image%25255B288%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jGYyRZTorDc/T_6pL9-v1ZI/AAAAAAABbMA/_B1s2tklC30/image_thumb%25255B122%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="930"></a> Toni’s mother bought the table at an antique store 20 years ago for $45.  Steal!  The French chairs are from Restoration Hardware and Toni really doesn’t like them – she says she wants chairs like Megan Megas (pictured at the top of the story) – and is curious if anyone knows where she can find them?  Did you look at Thompson Hanson?  I know that <a href="http://www.artesiacollections.com/">Artesia Collections</a> carries them too.  Love the print shade.      <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8jdcjsVAvqM/T_6pNfcPIUI/AAAAAAABbMI/CmfVdAdhMeI/s1600-h/image%25255B141%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8jdcjsVAvqM/T_6pNfcPIUI/AAAAAAABbMQ/TyojrtwEHCo/s1600-h/image%25255B357%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9zkV7BkMeyA/T_6pQ5-wYNI/AAAAAAABbMU/e8XtSuNo6Xk/image_thumb%25255B168%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="534"></a></a> The kitchen is separated from the dining room by a beadboard covered counter.     <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LqM736-xBXA/T_6pS-rqiCI/AAAAAAABbMc/dXkFhkil-YQ/s1600-h/image%25255B278%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="1416" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GD-Sx_ZDs0Q/T_6pWvX5TLI/AAAAAAABbMk/DzhKKJGXke0/image_thumb%25255B117%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="901"></a> The flower filled crown came from San Miguel Allende.       <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyta7pVrK1thH2wrynWb3-R-Nv6i45bSS3ZfLBDZh-b2vJR4nc6X0icMRFBdEHcrzlAZdbxuZHLKwNHTwsr1d0bsfUuvfcZ969WQ7peb4kmUgqB3SEt02P9AA0N-X-_7smUylUbZJA85o/s1600-h/image%25255B147%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Rn2jO_cMtPg/T_6pb4AhV6I/AAAAAAABbM0/4A2zz84CISk/image_thumb%25255B123%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a> Toni remodeled the kitchen with Cesar stone countertops – in lieu of the concrete ones she really wanted, but didn’t think they would clean up easily with two babies.  She picked the honed Cesar stone and she said it’s hard to clean up anyway! Always go with your heart!!!  Farm sink, bin pulls, and Carrera marble backsplash.    <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhHq-YwVxMeILMZcnTV7ZfQ-lmj7UiYnEKoDzEPm-gG57WfCAD0ZpinL_7_QA67c6gLtHWHbSjTiscxGj-rxk4cJL6gNGSzMkiIK0d8ekodFQ2YjInk5hGXYGO0tRcnvrtZqYYrMpWSTW/s1600-h/image%25255B295%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pr51T3Ml30o/T_6pfkQNCYI/AAAAAAABbNE/iX2SO6W1-zQ/image_thumb%25255B127%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="819"></a> The beadboard bar – here you can see how the kitchen connects back to the entry hall.   <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fhmbRTcZByxeB2Xm2tYCOkIEAUAoMvhu3vxlvQBgIRkQ4_E6XCHhhakhOX-djNN084SYmqBC36gCjAACGfXxeRqCH0OUwMi1JNJFUcu00pO78QwH5jiiRr2vXuQVAbPap-srss5BnbHL/s1600-h/image%25255B93%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AY_ekNp9LE4/T_6oxRMEqTI/AAAAAAABbK4/oJBRhpMl1is/s1600-h/image%25255B29%25255D.png"></a></a>  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UhQiv1_Sb9c/T_6piZ7qp-I/AAAAAAABbNU/BQbU-m8e3jk/s1600-h/image%25255B301%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="312" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-foxNNQa1_ds/T_6pjU8eAfI/AAAAAAABbNc/FNNab2KK53c/image_thumb%25255B131%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="391"></a> To order a butter plate like Toni’s go the left side of the blog – after the ads – and you’ll see where you can order one!!  I love them!!   <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NCi2vAdzJFqf_9y_FsqIKe3leIChy1I0uN-NaHAOeMx148q3Pnu1-hUdnZmF1dMYzJFVs_lDOvKyAlHi8U4_lWLTKw1zAn-lcEt2pYMmgGbcLjfjxm_TQEiN6dc5p4cw8HAeZ9u9xiY/s1600-h/image%25255B308%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ziAdrQtDdKQ/T_6pmKAzf5I/AAAAAAABbNs/TcuJfirWk58/image_thumb%25255B136%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="555"></a> Tony found San Pasquale, the patron saint of food, in Santa Fe.  Beautiful farm sink and polished nickel faucet.  Such rainy days in Texas.   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AY_ekNp9LE4/T_6oxRMEqTI/AAAAAAABbK4/oJBRhpMl1is/s1600-h/image%25255B29%25255D.png"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKOudglWXK3u4RqFKVMo5Kx1al3PBJW5G37BdMV3vGEagtq4Qje1lgNdai8jQm6ZWgfo9RtSfpS_fO-wLPckF6OsyvrplmpyJc-uEmKrgl5550-Pwa0FLaHwPXIvPiOZzUfrff7UL492E/s1600-h/image%25255B304%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xMCaLJkeJjM/T_6pozlbdlI/AAAAAAABbN4/vqKTdRdKtL8/image_thumb%25255B134%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="415"></a></a> Leading from the kitchen back to the entry and living room into the bedroom hall and this vignette – a Lucite stool and large sunburst mirror.      <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I1fCEjWOdh8/T_6pqzVWvTI/AAAAAAABbOA/oFNIH5ym6y0/s1600-h/image%25255B117%25255D.png"><a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWSl5FZnzmW4-9aznFIgueEBhAVF0_ouiPzj_BysQSRyz1y2QYW1f0m-F6QbCQNQ914AmTTcT3YPMkZVAIFF6pJke9TIRK1deUbO1OJbFrMhIVtNDqjeV-CajKWXtm8uu52HLdwWo4Ak/s1600-h/image%25255B315%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ytK8zPSLsMLiHJnAhcovIuL_6ybcOh0BNeUY36qgu52wqhGkJ_G2DLeuuyWQh0VK1ytTmCTglxxg9btvExg6KsO_u7XkOlagKTTL5C_bSht87eEHs0AlyfNz7VQHhyC6UMiEUo7tQdE/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a></a> The master bedroom is dominated by Toni’s grandmother’s vintage headboard – originally it was blue velvet, but Toni changed it to natural linen.  The ottoman-champagne crates at the foot of the bed are from <a href="http://www.hottowncoolcity.org/view/site/detail/448/">Judith McClellan</a>.   The Clint Eastwood photograph is much loved and much hated by various members of her extended family.  It comes off and on the wall at different times.     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yj886Gc5pj4/T_6pyr_U3AI/AAAAAAABbOY/M-J6oKeN8oM/s1600-h/image%25255B374%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gItiqEw-FbQ/T_6p1KgFd3I/AAAAAAABbOg/qBgL1_GFF-M/image_thumb%25255B178%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a> Without the photograph – better or not?    <a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0VN96EciPto/T_6p2fy342I/AAAAAAABbOo/sxybW31s_Ec/s1600-h/image%25255B331%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xj2jpTns-GY/T_6p36V5SXI/AAAAAAABbOw/ktKKfcTMGc0/image_thumb%25255B150%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="494"></a></a> The bedside tables are old wire trash cans with galvanized tops made by <a href="http://www.vieuxinteriors.com/">Vieux</a> in Houston.     <a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1VbINT8n9x4/T_6p5pCLQjI/AAAAAAABbO4/ZVQZfW-LTWA/s1600-h/image%25255B362%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fSzkol5vNSY/T_6p8Qq-A1I/AAAAAAABbPA/Ux0JAO9gTBY/image_thumb%25255B170%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="925"></a></a> Across from the bed is another fireplace with a chair and ottoman and zebra rug.     <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-148meATpg54/T_6p-k-RyII/AAAAAAABbPI/O1um-rSf94w/s1600-h/image%25255B111%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-148meATpg54/T_6p-k-RyII/AAAAAAABbPQ/9zjMI_rdhkQ/s1600-h/image%25255B323%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cO-OeTdnMJk/T_6qE9JOmCI/AAAAAAABbPU/-5QonlmFSzk/image_thumb%25255B145%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1180"></a></a> The chest is another product by James Farmer.  Toni said she lost her phone and the only two numbers she cared about losing were James and Hien’s phone numbers!   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZPqzaI0VR04/T_6qGS8YjvI/AAAAAAABbPc/xsiosJCPt6E/s1600-h/image%25255B108%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZPqzaI0VR04/T_6qGS8YjvI/AAAAAAABbPk/w1iBKLDTRGY/s1600-h/image%25255B324%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X8LuYLlX7Jw/T_6qLLwdZuI/AAAAAAABbPo/ayl4OB4TDyI/image_thumb%25255B146%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="704"></a></a> The painted fireplace across from the bed.     <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrpOLBjO7C8DXKCwVfG0_M-W8VWgVWB8U57Axoo2DNk6epXVWxOoZo-DhyphenhyphenDZflpIHFhJaZG2gov6NRUoDAOdPe2N6B99UffjMRdORVWxgpItg0u2cC07HQNQtI7dsSwz1_xEbhSKlMih4/s1600-h/image%25255B105%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TvQ0GKyORK8/T_6qNUvPuVI/AAAAAAABbP4/qPPvBqXqIJA/s1600-h/image%25255B326%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jAoDQxf5ozM/T_6qSZ83A4I/AAAAAAABbP8/LQR-47ODo5A/image_thumb%25255B148%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="619"></a></a> The seating area with the zebra accent rug.   <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9DYGskxa6_c/T_6qVk3OtII/AAAAAAABbQE/QAXtILJHIc8/s1600-h/image%25255B333%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9DYGskxa6_c/T_6qVk3OtII/AAAAAAABbQE/QAXtILJHIc8/s1600-h/image%25255B333%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_-dlbzEzfjpzKha4VKMO_pFVrQzesiYOnWvbLMifjgVWEGfJog5vPxpET-QT5BG_YMEVObzxEIiucgN7FGKVA_u6zEhH92ZMbaZU1d8Sz5mHGp6Mng0M6wWCxFdKDdMF7mAofNrwg52D/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a>The oldest daughter’s room in pink of course.  James Farmer did the fancy chest for her room. Such a pretty painting.     <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-b9nTd20ngxI/T_6qb4L4YvI/AAAAAAABbQU/KTcCkR43d7M/s1600-h/image%25255B335%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KdO2Kf1IJ58/T_6qdhsZvGI/AAAAAAABbQc/_S9k613Hkr0/image_thumb%25255B154%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="534"></a> She has the cutest tent – love the pink and white striped shade.       <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vNN5lVBtYM4/T_6qfz3goFI/AAAAAAABbQk/CQXJJK5MfKI/s1600-h/image%25255B345%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXHo684eIMCJGpywwd35plUYQj1QKBQkYz2z23wpMYTXgGHV2CLsgdPEU_OxGtqSZuU_2oduSO10FRR3vuvvAAaaPReLUMazgvl94LAAJ4i_Pdi24c0Dga6B4zo9imPvDG0IDHToqqsd5/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="612"></a> The nursery is in whites and grays.      <a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zzv-6mSV3Go/T_6qjUjhtSI/AAAAAAABbQ0/gxXDI_VZero/s1600-h/image%25255B247%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="799" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J3KS85NTtE4/T_6qlxsCuvI/AAAAAAABbQ8/Ds2YRfCrS4g/image_thumb%25255B92%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a> And finally, Toni says about her house:  “It’s still a work in progress. I once told my hubby, to me picking the right things for this house are like finding a significant other, you have to make a connection with it, it’s going in your home, you have to look at it every day.   If you don’t love it, it’s got no business there.”  As good a design philosophy as any!           Thanks so much to Toni for graciously opening her house to us!      If her house is this great when she is 28, I can’t wait to see it when she is 48! </blockquote>

A Reader’s House

Interior designer Megan Megas’ house – her interiors are an inspiration for the reader’s own house. Megas’ dining room – the rea...

3:44 AM

House of Fifty Talks To Cote de Texas

<blockquote>   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8DuuejzvdCA/T_qjM4_CDBI/AAAAAAABbCM/HppEbj-kg0U/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fDGfRGWsLknIqf2Y2PBpt0Ss0PuDPImnB6GMI7nuK0cW9dLghHvcS37xcfevFQJX4SR5-9Cerp4BQ4GwgWkiq7wmqvkjTGS3NaX6q67ekYZOciiv7FriuPjFa06kFjY6lTEpAIVOY2s/s1600-h/image%25255B42%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="912" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CIM5Si0kb94/T_qjQ7PZr8I/AAAAAAABbCY/-OBQnpWxyZY/image_thumb%25255B22%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="698"></a></a> Ageism?  I know I have suffered from it.  Blogging, especially décor blogging is for the young.  The scores and scores of décor blogs are mostly written by the newly married or first-time home owners – who catalogue their days spent decorating their houses.  For some just starting out in the work force, money is tight,  so there are lots of DIY projects that fill the pages of their blogs.  They have it easy, these young bloggers.  They have lots to talk about day after day.  Furnishing a house is a long term event and with each new object they buy or make or restore, they have plenty to blog about.  Jealous?  You bet I am!  I’m at a different stage in my life.  I’ve raised my family and have furnished my house.  I don’t go out shopping every day anymore, and I actually need to edit and sell things now.  Oh, how I wish there were blogs 10 and 20 years ago when I frantically tried to furnish my house on birthday checks from my parents and IRS rebates (not many of those!)  Every time Ben and I needed something big – like a rug, or a coffee table – my parents would graciously gift us it for an anniversary present.   I was never a DIY-er, but watching all these young girls transform an IKEA chest into a fabulous glam piece, I probably would have tried a few projects.   Had I been writing this blog all those years ago, you would have read about each piece of transferware I collected, and suffered through every design phase I tried out.  Maybe it’s better I wasn’t writing this back then!!   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7rJfDt-Zw24/T_qjRlx56zI/AAAAAAABbCg/d6E30RAzOf4/s1600-h/image%25255B50%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="416" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-j4pWTfIzJE4/T_qjTCYSLCI/AAAAAAABbCo/pe2WwS2P6wU/image_thumb%25255B26%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="361"></a> It’s been a long, strange trip since I decorated my first apartment – during college, 38 years now!!!  Love those eyebrows!   All the younger design bloggers are online friends – they talk about their pregnancies and how they decorated the myriad birthday parties they host for their children.  Many homeschool along with all their other duties and deserve medals for how they get it all done:  cooking a family dinner every night with home grown vegetables or painting the entire house while breast feeding at the same time.  The  younger bloggers are exhausting to read about – and at the same time make you feel like a lazy slug.   At 57, soon to be 58 (yikes!) I am looking forward to the next few years,  hopefully being a mother in law, and a grandmother.   So, yes, I understand ageism – trying to fit in with all the young décor bloggers has been interesting and inspiring.  It’s hard to find things to write about that might pique the interest of the younger set, but I try.   I know I’m not alone in this, ageism affects every field and with the baby boomers now reaching retirement age – it’s become quite a popular topic.    <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHT0jAMZRnOk8VP9ah7aPQCIiEVeVQ0nQhylPuwxIRevQ-xXP-3_2GEWazwOQAplZ-oALIJszYhgSvylW7oNFugNDKUMf13uDilT5d4fmHWw75UFyL6uGsMHk9CiAic1mQSyxtzrWKoVd/s1600-h/image%25255B54%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="567" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LAV9AmBr-U0/T_qjVBR-3xI/AAAAAAABbC4/fGNplRM9MQ4/image_thumb%25255B28%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="598"></a> Magazine editor and blogger, Janell Beals looking much younger than her 50 years.   Another blogger that faced the ageism effect is Janell Beals.   Beals wrote the popular Isabella and Max Rooms blog which lead to freelance jobs at HGTV and Houzz.  She was at the top of her game when she was scouted to star in a possible television show.  Over the phone, the interviewer asked how old she was – and Janell replied “49.”   Surprising the interviewer,  she was told how much younger she looked in pictures – and that they would get back with her concerning the job.  Of course Janell never heard from them again.  Depressed over the obvious ageism bias, she decided to start an online magazine where her age would never be an issue.  Called House of Fifty, it was named as a word play on her age.  Online magazines like House of Fifty are an outgrowth of blogs, usually published once every two months.  They have pages and pages of wonderful copy – sometimes much more than a print magazine because their overhead is much less.  Online magazines are the wave of the future. Almost all print magazines are now available online through companies like Zinio, Issuu,  and Coverleaf and independent  magazines like House of Fifty,  available only online, are quickly gaining in numbers.     <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8ftkrBVcgU3DlHLRbDIKpq8lg4aDwei3Rs3IH5IeJjpFB5pf8FdHidx8coJbrIpHnbqJv60z97FZae624FOhdFwGZlH-QYharWs1MbCe0DusMlSbhQrTdKap2cO12pICpY_D5ntdMZk/s1600-h/image%25255B24%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="798" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QUWY1x4zWJs/T_qjYJBRq4I/AAAAAAABbDI/B_QkXQrRj1Y/image_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="644"></a> Lulie Wallace’s beautiful art work was featured in House of Fifty’s Summer 2012 issue.   House of Fifty was launched over a year ago and they just recently put out their sixth issue.  Though not geared specifically for the gray hairs, the content is broad enough to appeal to all ages, including those in the their 20s and 30s.  Janell hired a group of writers from across the blogs, and recently she invited 60 something Valorie Hart of <a href="http://thevisualvamp.blogspot.com/">The Visual Vamp</a>, to join the group, ensuring that us grandmas will get coverage.   Although design is heavily focused on, House of Fifty is not just a decor magazine – it features articles on cooking and recipes, fashion, travel, entertaining, jewelry, art, and there is even a financial advice column.   There’s something for all ages in its pages filled with beautiful photographs.     <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMnHYAWocwEIeGUa1ey7vkUuNrI-TYUDpQXDF-2aBRkf91zT7ciBKrhXSanYPVXNn_k97JVJLi8GgXNTc0tuyNWiwyH82bZ844zigsh9SeEi1k-kKd0hm6RnJfqJX4AvF9aiYpWCLLpPP/s1600-h/image%25255B25%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="748" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-iMYQOvnNp5o/T_qjbP9gqiI/AAAAAAABbDY/G2SURCIFRBU/image_thumb%25255B9%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="709"></a> One of my favorite articles was about guest rooms by Lori Graham, seen in the 2011 Holiday issue HERE.  I love the international look of this room – with its dark floors and rugs and oriental touches.     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8D972kQNUeE/T_qjdd7RfqI/AAAAAAABbDg/F_9GtsiIsA8/s1600-h/image%25255B34%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8v9oWTaeY1U/T_qjfhVh4OI/AAAAAAABbDo/wvqsrWTzDGE/image_thumb%25255B14%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1077"></a> The other half of Lori Graham’s fabulously designed guest room.   Love it!     <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tEOqpYJL8GaiVyChYvuKChcrMPPHJRD69KndCAwqwPGlKoPIjuUHyQVIUE5cXxEZVUyJw8ubmZG64-xJdPuj1IJWu7-plRNbSdedkDtcKRO-Kmcow0g5-SmsPkSqiUiTO1BR00g4SeMP/s1600-h/image%25255B20%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qvixOq-pRi4/T_qjiAhIpxI/AAAAAAABbD4/999XHZlXSdE/s1600-h/image%25255B36%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="771" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzt2MGq6Fao8rES09U_V7TB_H_lPEpZQllKZq8IEaReqm3HAdjeICiztIfWAAmOac94E833bqDpaXC7eWPgGUlIEEorkbbj_mFBPTWMOAIuP5bKFym8J_TrgdQC7LAvLy5lEc4tB1h8tg/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1204"></a></a> House of Fifty has a regular column called “Blogs We Love” – which features 3 different blogs each issue.  This blogger, Lauren Liess of <a href="http://purestylehome.blogspot.com/">Pure Style Home</a> showed the room she designed for a showhouse, using mostly her own fabrics and furniture.   Sooo cute!!!  Find it in this issue HERE.     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fpNSOoVByfs/T_qjrxxnCDI/AAAAAAABbEE/H4ki-vmch-w/s1600-h/image%25255B8%25255D.png">AAAA<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fpNSOoVByfs/T_qjrxxnCDI/AAAAAAABbEM/PDAyUBqcUkI/s1600-h/image%25255B37%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="721" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R0QxPABHDqc/T_qjvoAhUiI/AAAAAAABbEQ/45apPQc3keQ/image_thumb%25255B17%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="656"></a></a> After being profiled herself,  Valorie Hart joined the staff and wrote this great article – “Does your décor tell your age?” Valorie featured her own house in New Orleans to prove that decorating knows no age.  Look how “young” Valorie’s living room is – any 20 something would love to live in this space, designed by a 60 something!     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2vgALGqJ0FY/T_qjx8DHPJI/AAAAAAABbEY/arJlHulGUog/s1600-h/image%25255B23%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2vgALGqJ0FY/T_qjx8DHPJI/AAAAAAABbEg/-p2dqTN2wg8/s1600-h/image%25255B38%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="783" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpzIUBa3QFVF8U_2Paa8VaFdb8ffiXAPLEgSsjmh9SR7CzDX3lpS0B5Qm7nIngt1sXiB91g_6SOEJJnGtFCGtITHzMOVAEI4QGxV9jLZeK0lMOQc53XN32F8bZ6Lb-XnHDcgxCTNX0CK1h/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="546"></a></a> In the same article Valorie featured editor and founder of House of Fifty, Janell Beals own dining room- it certainly doesn’t look like it was designed by and for someone past the half century mark.  OK, I am depressing myself here talking about half century marks!!!  Find it in this issue HERE.     <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_lAAnf1NVN8/T_qj3dMVwzI/AAAAAAABbEs/CmHxZq2F4bo/s1600-h/image%25255B11%25255D.png"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_lAAnf1NVN8/T_qj3dMVwzI/AAAAAAABbE0/oOM05ufcdAc/s1600-h/image%25255B56%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="792" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WGyYT5KZThs/T_qj7xKmiFI/AAAAAAABbE4/1KmskJqdGJI/image_thumb%25255B30%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1206"></a></a>   Well…lookie here!!!  Although they must not love my blog because I never made it into their “Blogs We Love” column, I was interviewed for the newest issue on “Advanced Décor:  Designing luxurious yet livable homes.”  Not sure if Advance Décor means décor for the advanced aged????     <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bJYKlW27S1Y/T_qj9kFqEbI/AAAAAAABbFA/dTSwPUODG30/s1600-h/image%25255B14%25255D.png"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhivSYjSXXHe-mmOCYDjNfcHvfHFiixAISaLIjxHyuR6op7LLiBrJA2shwRDCT7O9gQnFn8eRGgVYhKo_YO5wotxIkaVvUipMwsn0aKPAgcMErOg7hMagQHTPnl_yHkLX1roGFrHuEJx1k-/s1600-h/image%25255B55%25255D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" height="775" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-l4VYKrhCPdk/T_qkCRIYO4I/AAAAAAABbFM/kvIDZxhgRr8/image_thumb%25255B29%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" width="1206"></a></a> The article was written by The Visual Vamp – Valorie Hart - and I am so proud to be a part of House of Fifty!!! To read this article, go to the newest issue <a href="http://issuu.com/houseoffifty/docs/magazine_julyaugust_2012">HERE</a>.     A huge thank you to Janell Beals and Valorie Hart for including me in new The House of Fifty!!        </blockquote>

House of Fifty Talks To Cote de Texas

Ageism? I know I have suffered from it. Blogging, especially décor blogging is for the young. The scores and scores of décor blogs a...

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House of Fifty Talks To Cote de Texas

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