Design Inspiration - Bolivian frazada blankets

About 9 years ago, my now husband and I took a 6 month trip to South America and Central America.
It was the coolest thing I had ever done.
Along the trip we collected many things that are in our home today and remind us of our travels.
In the majority of the countries we visited, textiles are a prominent piece of the culture.
In Bolivia, frazada blankets, are often found in vibrant color combinations. This was one of our favorite items that we brought home with us.

Bolivian Frazada blankets / throws - Leif shop 

In recent years, the trend of  hand-woven, cultural authenticity in textiles such as pillows and throws has continued to grow.
Products that incorporate the colors, textures and patterns found in these ancient hand-woven pieces add depth and interest to homes.

pillows from West Elm

The home of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber as seen in Architectural Digest show
that using vintage, hand-woven textiles add interest to a white sofa. 

Inspired by this trend and the Bolivian frazada blankets, similar to the one I brought back from my trip, I decided to design some rugs that mimic this style.

I focused on placement and overlap of color

Keep an eye out for more design inspiration posts with 2015 trends.
~Meredith

Get Outside

On a recent trip to San Francisco in May, I found myself in the most pleasant setting for an early morning cup of coffee with my husband.

Outside at the Stable Cafe, was this wonderful, shared garden space. The light was gorgeous and the whole environment, with the plants and pebbled ground was so peaceful and inspiring.

It had me looking forward to getting our outdoor space ready for that long awaited New England summer. 

Morning coffee on the deck and nights of outdoor dinners and lounging. 

I was mostly inspired here by the plants and the natural element that made this space so inviting. 

When it comes to outdoor spaces, sometimes all it takes is a few simple steps to make your space into that setting you dream of. (especially after long winters!)

Whether you live in the city, the country, or on the water, prefer an eclectic mix or clean and simple, here are a few images for your outdoor inspiration. . . 

Adding string lights and flowers is a simple and easy way to make a space feel warm and inviting.
Image via Pinterest 

A small balcony becomes a cozy outdoor hang out.
Image via Pinterest

A traditional deck adds a lounge-like elegance with over-sized cushions and chairs in bright white.
Image via Pinterest

Traditional meets rustic for a look that is truly New England.
Image via Pinterest

A gorgeous view needs only natural pieces that blend with the surrounding environment.
Image via Pinterest

An extension of the indoors.
Image via Elle Decor

A traditional home mixes modern pieces and patterns in black and white, with a touch of natural tones and textures.
Image via Pinterest

A patio full of greenery gets an eclectic mix of pattern and color.

Traditional covered porch with Moroccan-style influences.
Image via Pinterest

This porch keeps it clean and simple.
Image via Pinterest

This one says it all. . .
Image via Pinterest

Summer is here! Time to get outside.

~Meredith