Now that summer’s over and we’re all getting back into our groove, I’m ready to get back to blogging! In case you are just tuning in, last week I shared that I found an apartment on the Upper East Side. After three years in Murray Hill and limited space I am so excited for this new little adventure of mine. I officially moved last Thursday and today marks the first night I’ll actually sleep here. How exciting, right?!

Well there is so much I need to do including finish unpacking boxes and getting organized but I am diving straight first into Pinterest and design boards. It’s been a little challenging figuring out “the look” I want to go for in my new apartment. If you guys remember my bedroom in my last apartment, it was very nautical / east coast inspired. I have no doubt that this apartment will have the same elements, however, it will be interesting to see how I mix traditional elements into this new design scheme of mine.

Of course I have been browsing blogs, designer portfolios and Pinterest to see what my eye is going to these days. Utah design firm Studio McGee has provided a wealth of inspiration for me lately. I know I’ve blogged about some of Shae’s projects on here before but I love her sense of style. What I think Shae does exceptionally well is mixing metals and materials. And so far, that’s all I know I will be doing myself. I’ve noticed my eye has been going to a whole lot of natural wood pieces, marble, brass and so forth. I know good design takes time but hey, this girl has zero furniture at the moment and I’d like my place to be somewhat together by Christmas!! More to come later this week… Happy Wednesday, my friends! Xo. Lauren

Images via Studio McGee and Collins Interiors

I came across this chic and sophisticated living room online and had to do a “get the look” post! I’m gearing up to do a major living room re-design (more on that later) so I’ve been scouring the web for some serious design inspiration. I have been a fan of Shae McGee’s work for quite some time now. She’s one half of the amazing design duo behind Studio McGee. If you aren’t familiar with their work, make sure to take a peep over at her website right here. I promise you will get lost in the archives of her portfolio which are made up of gorgeous living rooms, kitchens and more. From neutral tones to collected art to perfectly layered textiles, Shae McGee sure knows how to design a beautiful space.

Today I’m using this formal living room to inspire not only yours but my future living room design. I’ve picked out a few key pieces to help you “get the look.” When it comes to designing a space, one rule of thumb I’ve learned along the way is invest in natural fabrics when it comes to your big pieces like a couch. It’s easier to switch out pillows than it is to completely re-fabric an entire sofa ($$$). One of my all-time favorite styles is the rolling arm sofa. Serena and Lilly has a beautiful option although not as easy on the bank account. I’d personally invest in a slipcover sofa so when you spill, the slip cover can easily be cleaned. One Kings Lane is another great resource with plenty of rolling arm styled & slip covered couches. And let’s not forget about Pottery Barn!

Other key pieces in this room that will help you get the look is the: art (I found these abstract pieces on Horchow that are so pretty), a brass pendant, a large gray rug and a white marble top coffee table. This is the exact coffee table from the living room featured and I’m seriously obsessed! I might just have to get it for my living room re-design.

Style you can steal: a white garden stool, a chanel coffee table book, Elements of Style Coffee table book and these ceramic West Elm vases which are the perfect accessory for any coffee table or book shelf.

Hope everyone had a great Monday!! Xo. Lauren

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Image: Studio McGee