Happy Weekend!

If only this were where I was spending it...

(Click on image to enlarge)

I adore the mix of design influences! Asian, contemporary, etc... I also love how the bedspread is the focal point of the room. It gives abundant impact to the bedroom without being overstated. Mine, mine!

Realestate.com.au via desiretoinpire.blogspot.com.

Steppin' It Up

I am thinking about getting a stair runner for my steps. They are hardwood and very slippery. I also thought it would be a great way to jazz up the stairway.

I did a little searching to help me make a decision. These are very convincing.

Decor Pad

Eatmans Carpets & Interiors

thewisteriahouse.blogspot.com

myhomeideas.com

LivingEtc.

House Beautiful June 2008

Home Goods Excursion: Final Episode- Lamps and Vases

The last of the Home Goods finds... for now :)

Mercy Mercy Me

This week I went to a going away party at Marvin, named after the gifted Marvin Gaye, in the U Street/Shaw neighborhood of Washington, DC. (He grew up in that neighborhood) Some of the design direction they chose seem vey reminiscent of old school DC, where many local artists like Marvin Gaye hung out.

The restaurant's menu ideas are based on a blend of the "soulful" Shaw neighborhood and a tribute to Marvin's stint in Ostend, Belgium where he apparently went to recover from substance abuse. (There is a great discussion on NPR about the restaurant and Marvin's time overseas:

http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=90186114&m=90186076)

While this is an interesting twist to a restaurant tribute, when you think of Marvin Gaye, do you really think of Belgium? But I won't let that take away from the laid back, charming decor and good food.

I wish I was able to get more pictures of the entire place. It has three bars, with one located on an outside deck, which draws large crowds all year long. Although I am not able to give you a comprehensive look at this nifty local spot, here are a few tidbits that caught my eye.

I love Billie Holiday!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9BA6fFGMjI

Food Diary: Belga Café

Last night I had dinner with friends at Belga Cafe on Capital Hill. I want to say a special 'thank you' to chef Bart Vandaele for making a special visit to our table. He was such a nice person, and very hospitable.

The self entitled, "little Brussels on the Hill" was an impressive experience of Belgian food and I highly recommend it.

The restaurant boasts of a long list of wines, beers and cocktails; but a notable turn of events for me was the Belga Opal Champagne. Champagne infused with basil. It was so original and surprisingly tasty. A must try.

Remember, try the unexpected.

photo:http://www.timswineblog.com/

Home Goods Excursion: Part II- Furniture, Pillows and Buddha

More Home Goods finds:

Tufted chairs are my favorite...

This chair really belongs in my house, and not in the store. The pattern isn't great, but the shape and style are perfect.

The silver tacking detail on the back of the chair caught my eye.

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Pillows!

I know, more pillows. But I'm addicted... and its such any easy design fix.

'Sigh'- I love these pillows. They would look so good on this bed.

Take your pick. This is on one of many isles of pillows.

Many of you who know me know that I am absolutely a fan of Buddha statues. Let's just say, I have more than one in my house. They make me feel harmonious, and so at peace. Just look into Buddha's face- don't you feel at peace already?

Stay tuned for the final episode of Home Goods Excursion...

Home Goods Excursion: Part I- Art Work, Placemats, etc.

Last week I visited one of my major obsessions, Home Goods. You know the good ol' people at Marshalls and TJ Maxx? They're all part of the same family. Home Goods, however, just focuses on products for the home. This is my favorite place for on the cheap buys.

I found so much great stuff I only wish I had an empty house to fill and the money to buy it all. Check out what I spotted at the mecca for affordable buys:

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Artwork can be an expensive investment, but absolutely necessary to fill a home. If you can't afford to splurge on the real thing quite yet, why not shop at places like Home Goods, which are perfect for all kinds of art pieces on the cheap.

This black and white picture below is not my favorite, but I love the frame. You could place your own photography or any print you like in place of the existing photo; then you have the picture you like with the framing you like without paying a hefty price to have it framed yourself.

I love abstract art. It allows each observer the freedom to interpret their own ideas and conjure up their personal emotions about the artwork.

Again- a great frame to place your choice of art within...

Mirrors are a great way to open up space while simultaneously existing as its own art piece, depending on the intricacy or design of the frame. This round mirror is a simple character addition to any room.

I love how placemats can change the whole mood of a table setting. These placemats would look cool with large, white, square plates.

This would be a great centerpiece to spice up your bar. Very Greta Garbo!

This light fixture looked a lot more eye-catching in person. It's pretty funky.

Stay tuned for more fantastic finds at Home Goods...