26 Aug 2014

Gray Malin
1

This past weekend, Jess, Hallie and I were invited out to the Hamptons with Cadillac (more on my weekend recap later this week) but Jess and I were talking about her new apartment. I love helping friends try to figure out their new space and brainstorm different ideas. Jess and I touched on Gray Malin and how she’d like to get a piece of his work – which of course, I strongly agreed with. If you haven’t heard of Gray Malin, let me introduce you. He is an LA based photographer who travels the world bringing inspiration to all. I particularly love his photographs of the world’s dreamiest beaches from a bird’s eye view. If you don’t recognize his name right away, I’m certain you have seen his work in a magazine or across Pinterest. My obsession with Gray began when I first saw this photograph. Later, when I took a peak at his website, I learned that I am quite actually obsessed with all of his work. Insert his Up and Away series. Love this “Windy” photograph from my beloved Chicago, this “Get Away” photograph or this “Ciao” photograph.

Windy_Gray Malin

CIAO_Gray Mallin

I feel like Gray does such an amazing job promoting himself and his work. I read an interview he did with Tory Burch here where he provided a bit of advice that really resonated with me. He explained how today is all about the internet (#yes). “Spread your wings and surf your heart out! Having a website is key. You never know where the internet will take you.” I think this is true not only because I have experienced this myself but also because this can be applied to so many individuals in different industries!

Gray Mallin_Lifestyle

 

I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite pieces of Gray’s work below but definitely do yourself a favor and check out his entire collection here. You can follow along on Gray’s adventures on Facebook and Instagram. Are you as obsessed as I am now? Xo. Lauren

barcelona_beach_umbrellas_gray malin

bermuda_flamingos_final_gray malin

Pink_Umbrellas_Vintage_Gray Malin

Poolside_Palm_Trees_Gray Malin

Monterosso_Cinque_Terra_Gray Malin

deco_divas_gray malin

 < All images via GrayMalin.com >

19 Aug 2014

Lilac Interiors
1

Happy Tuesday! How was everyone’s weekend? I cannot believe August is half way over. Can you? I spent this past weekend in East Hampton with a few of my coworkers. We lounged by the pool, dined at Moby’s and enjoyed some cocktails under the twinkly lights at Ruschmeyers – my fav. This week is jammed pack (mostly with work related activities) so bare with me if I’m not posting as frequently this week.

I’d like to start this post off with the fact that I’m not a fan of purple. I think I get this mostly from my mother but for whatever reason, I just don’t like the color when it comes to clothes, interiors – basically anything. My intern, Molly, however inspired me when she mentioned her go-to nail polish of the summer has been Lilac by Essie. I have been seeing this color pop up more and more when it comes to interiors. I especially love it when it comes to bedding and flowers. What do you think, are you a fan of lilac? Xo. Lauren

Lilac Interiors_1

lilac interiors_2

lilac interiors_4

lilac interiors_5

lilac

lilac 7

{Image 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6}

 

13 Aug 2014

Coffee Talk with Maggie Stephens Interiors
0

I first discovered Maggie Stephens Interiors when I pinned one of her images to my Pinterest board. I wanted to do a “get the look post” with this image and clicked around to find the source. Insert Maggie Stephens Interiors. If you browse through her portfolio, you will find gorgeous photos and so much design inspiration. I also love that Maggie first got started with her design blog back in 2008 which eventually expanded to her taking on design clients online and local projects (this already has me thinking for some future projects down the road).

Maggie Morgan Headshot 300x300

I applaud people who can take their passion and seriously turn it into a full-time gig even if they’re not “formally educated” in the space. So today I bring you coffee talk with Maggie! Be sure to follow along with her on her blog, Twitter and Pinterest!

Maggie1

Maggie2

1. What are your top three interior design tips and tricks?

A. Diversify your lighting sources. From chandeliers to pendants, I like to use a mixture of table lamps, wall sconces and ceiling fixtures. I recommend using lower wattage bulbs spread across three or four lamps instead of one lamp with a high wattage. It creates a cozier atmosphere.

B. Buy bigger rugs. Try to place rugs a foot from the walls. Most people by rugs that are too small. However, for renters I break this rule. I recommend 8×10’s or 9×12’s because they are more likely to fit in your next home as well.

C. Rooms need history. Spend some time at flea markets or antique malls and buy something vintage or antique that catches your eye. I love pairing new upholstery pieces with vintage tables or lamps. Mixing older pieces in a room makes the room feel less like a catalog.

Maggie3

2. Favorite Color Combinations: I love neutrals the most but  I can’t resist a good tomato red paired with lavender. It always feels fresh to me.

3. What are three of your favorite products on the market right now? The Aerin Lauder Collection at Circa Lighting is amazing. I’m dying to use two of these chests in my bedroom in lieu of nightstands.. sadly they are too big! This little bench is quirky and charming.

4. Coffee Table Staple: Books, a tray, something weird.

Maggie4

5.  Best Piece of Advice You’ve Ever Received: It’s only failing if you stop trying. Also, write everything down.

6. Must-Have Coffee Table Books: An Eye for Design by Allegra Hicks, Vanity Fair Portraits (everyone loves looking through this one), and my new favorite (being new to California) is California Design, 1930-1965: Living in a Modern Way.

7.  Motto: Dream bigger, work harder, make time for fun.

Maggie5

8. Magazine/Go-To Sites: House Beautiful Magazine has been awesome lately. I still prefer glossy to online! Pinterest of course and recently discovered Domaine Home.

9. Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate or anything covered in cheese. Also, binge watching shows on Netflix. My husband and I are currently obsessed with Adventure Time.

10. One Interior Designer You Look Up To: I have loved following Lauren Liess and her firm. She has a gorgeous, unique style and her work continues to get better. She had a similar start in the business as me (i.e. we both took a leap to follow a passion) and I consider her a role model!

Maggie6

< Images via Maggie Stephens Intiors >

8 Aug 2014

Get The Look: Montauk Yacht Club
4

Montauk Yacht Club

Happy Friday! I cannot wait to get this day started as I’m headed to Montauk this afternoon with Jess and Lauren. We will be staying for two nights at the Montauk Yacht Club. The yacht club looks so nautical, I can’t even take it. To get today started off on the right foot, I’ve rounded up a few items to help you get the look of the Montauk Yacht Club. You can find pictures of all their accommodations here, but this picture below is my favorite. Navy and white striped pillows AND curtains? Yes, please. I love the wicker accents incorporated in the room including the bedside lighting and accent chair. I particularly love the rope knot table lamp from Pottery Barn if you are going for the nautical theme. Be sure to follow our adventures in Montauk on Instagram – you can follow me here! Hope everyone has a great weekend. Xo. Lauren

 

Montauk Yach Club - Get The Look

Pottery Barn Navy and White Stripe Curtains // Vintage Framed Sail Boat // Blue and White Stripe Pillow // Torrey All-Weather Wicker Chair // Bedside White Table  // Knot Bedside Lighting