Curate My Life Posts

5 Ways to Transform Your Home into a Modern Cabin Retreat

Jan 18, 2019 No Comments

By: Danielle Clockel

When you think of a cozy cabin getaway, what comes to mind? Probably wood tones, comforting textures, and maybe some wildlife elements, but sometimes the style feels a little one-note. Forget what you think you know about cabin decor, and let’s get in the mindset of something edgier and more modern.

Photo courtesy of Trendir.

Yeah. More like that. Let’s dive in!

Wood Accents

Photo courtesy of Dwell.

Log cabins can sometimes have an overabundance of wood — wood floors, wooden walls, wood beams. We love this material too, don’t get us wrong! But using it as an accent or feature instead of overwhelming the senses highlights its natural beauty and character.

Wood Burning Stove

Photo courtesy of Charnwood.

No matter what style of cabin we’re talking about, a fire is an absolute necessity. However, we’re leaning away from grand mantles and giant stone walls in favor of small-space-friendly wood burning stoves. These can go super authentically rustic or more paired down, but the result is the same — a soul-warming fire. Bonus points if you put your firewood on display!

Mixed Up Pillows

Photos courtesy of Chairish, Zibbet, and Pinterest.

Plaid and buffalo check are time honored patterns of any cabin, and we are happy to pay homage to these roots. But a fun way to liven up this look is by adding an additional, unexpected style. Maybe some rug remnant pillows? Hey, why should the boho homes have a monopoly on these kilim treasures!

Faux Taxidermy

Photo courtesy of Anthology Magazine.

Speaking of accessories, let’s address the taxidermy trope. We say skip the dead animal heads and go the more environmentally friendly (and animal friendly) route with whimsical upholstered faux taxidermy. Go from creepy to cute!

Shag Rugs

Photo courtesy of Instagram.

We know, you’re probably a little surprised at this suggestion. Shag rugs are often found in either sophisticated glam spaces or funky global abodes (a la Moroccan wedding blankets), but why not a modern cabin as well? What’s cozier and comfier than a plush shaggy rug underfoot to warm your cold toes?

Winter gets a bad rep for being cold and icy, but who says that’s a bad thing? Surround yourself in a modern cabin aesthetic and revel in the cozy warmth it brings!

Holiday Home Wishlist

Dec 14, 2018 No Comments

By: The Balance Design Team

While we strongly believe this time of year should be spent with loved ones, cherishing relationships and friendships, we’re also human — it’s fun to give and get gifts!!! What’s on our wishlist this season? Check it out below.

Stephanie’s Pick: Modern Mobile

Photo courtesy of Etsy.

There will always be a spot in my heart for modern mobiles. This particularly lovely one is brass, stainless steel, and copper, and inspired by willow branches. Mobiles are all about structure, proportion, and movement, and this one conveys pure grace. I picture it hanging above a reading chair in an office, perhaps as I continue to armchair shop Etsy’s vast array of emerging artists!

Shelby’s Pick: Teak Housewares

Photo courtesy of Steel+Plank.

This year I’ve tried to embrace a more minimalist way of life, collecting functional items that I truly love and will stand the test of time. When I came across Athens, GA based Steel+Plank, I fell in love with their curated kitchen accessories, especially these teak measuring spoons and cups. My family loves to spend time together in the kitchen and entertain, so these pieces are perfect for us to enjoy this holiday season! (PS – we met the ladies of Steel+Plank at an event recently and could not have loved them more!)

Danielle’s Pick: Indoor Olive Tree

Photo courtesy of HonestlyWTF.

I may have 16 plants in my studio apartment, but that’s still not enough for me. Most of my plant children are hearty succulents, cacti, and a couple of mosses, and I think I’m ready to branch out (pun absolutely intended) into a new plant families. Olive trees are a symbol of peace, and who wouldn’t want to bring that energy into their home? Plant a dwarf variety of this striking Mediterranean native in a cute planter and enjoy its visual energy in any style of room. Its sage-hued leaves compliment modern interiors and Tuscan-inspired sunrooms alike. Just make sure it can sunbathe a LOT — olive trees like 6-8 hours of sun each day.

Jennifer’s Pick: Concrete Lamp

Photo courtesy of Surya.

Concrete is one of those materials that’s better known for its structural purposes in the building world than in furnishings and decor. However, more recently, designers and architects alike have been drawn to its simplicity and versatility for styling interiors. Not only can this material add a soft, calming feel to a space, it also brings a bit of the outside world indoors. I’ve had my eye on this lamp from Surya for quite some time, being drawn to the beauty of its clean styling and the elegant pairing of the stone-like material with brushed metal accents and natural linen.

Melody’s Pick: Heirloom Tapestry

Photo courtesy of Anthropologie.

Having a large dog sometimes means sacrificing the option of having nice things close to the floor. But with a gorgeous wall hanging like this, I don’t have to worry that his nails will snag a loop or his hair will become “fur”ever incorporated into the weave. Often beautiful rugs (or even remnants) get stuffed into storage to avoid damage. I say appreciate them as art instead — tapestries are a gorgeous way to showcase more fragile pieces! This one reminds me of the Turkish rugs I’ve grown up around, and presents it in a beautifully different way. I love the old world feeling pieces like this can bring to a home.

Magnolia’s Pick: Original Art

Photo courtesy of Chairish.

Having just recently moved in to a new home, it’s taken months and endless hours of shopping/moving/organizing just to get my basic living necessities in order. Now that the space is functional, I can finally focus on making it my own! And what better way to do this than by adorning my walls with gorgeous works of art? This piece by Charleston-based artist Leslie Weaver (found via my new favorite vintage marketplace, Chairish) beautifully compliments the moody, expressive, and subtly feminine energy that radiates throughout my entire living space. In my opinion, there’s no better gift than something that truly resonates with me in the way that paintings like this do (not to mention, it’s a great conversation starter for guests)!

Are you inspired yet? If you still have a few people to find the perfect gift for, we recommend shopping local. Go out and about your neighborhood/city/town and find independent and small businesses to support!

Halloween Forever! How to Keep the Spirit Alive All Year Long

Oct 31, 2018 No Comments

By: Danielle Clockel

Today is the day: Halloween! This is the peak of the scary season, when there are carved pumpkins, fake skeletons, and giant spider decorations everywhere. For some of us, this kind of decor never really leaves our home — creepy chic is a way of life. But beyond plastic bones and wispy spiderwebs is a whole world of stylish, more subtle ways to embrace your darker aesthetic.

Clawfoot furnishings don’t always have to be paws. This side table from Blackhouse is giving us major Edgar Allan Poe vibes with its raven black bird claw base.

Vintage medical illustrations are not only an unexpected way to adorn your walls, they also add a bit of history to your home. Even though at some point you’ll probably have to pack up your dangling Halloween skeletons, these works of art can stay put throughout the year.

These quirky dolls heads planters are just cute enough to not be absolutely terrifying. (Can anything really be that scary when there’s a plant in it?)

Not only is this coffin shelf an eye-catching piece for your wall or dresser, there’s also a satisfying irony in using an iconic symbol of death to display elements of life: thriving plants, favorite jewelry, cherished treasures, etc.

Candles always set a perfect mood in the evenings, with their warm glow and dancing shadows. Bring that to the next level by displaying dark colored candles with woodsy scents, and live your haunted autumn fantasy even in the thick of summer.

So there you have it. If the thought of packing up your favorite holiday’s decorations after tonight breaks your heart, never fear! There are plenty of stylishly spooky ways to incorporate a little bit of macabre into your home and “creep it real” well past October 31st. (Happy Halloween!!)

Design Inspiration: Paris Fashion Week

Oct 12, 2018 No Comments

By: The Balance Design Team

The runways of Paris are an inspiration to many in terms of fashion, but to us they’re so much more. The stunning looks at the recent Paris Fashion Week have motivated us to step up our interior design styles in so many ways! Let’s dive in.

Casual Sophistication

Photos courtesy of Vogue and Nate Berkus.

Rich texture, bright colors, global vibe, slouchy yet sophisticated style — don’t you just love it when things look effortless? Get your home in the same spirit by incorporating bold upholstery, natural materials like wood or leather, and comfy-casual-classic pieces like a cozy throw. So easygoing and unpretentious, yet speaks volumes.

Darkly Sheer Embroidery

Photos courtesy of Vogue, The Jungalow, and Pinterest.

We love sheers, and we love embroidery, but something about too much of either one can feel like overkill. Pair them together, however, and you have an ultra sophisticated yet eclectic look for your outfit or your home. Sheer tiered panels alongside funky embroidered pillows are the household equivalent of gauzy ruffled skirts with a structured, embroidered jacket. We’re especially loving this concept in a dark ground with vivid accents — it adds that bit of edge to an otherwise soft look.

Basics Reinvented

Photos courtesy of Elle and Coroflot.

A chair is a chair, a shirt is a shirt…how many different ways can you alter the fundamentals? Fashion week always gets us inspired to rethink the basics, like solid clothing or the humble chair.  The tone on tone compliments, rich texture, soft fabric made crisp with pleats, and reimagined silhouette of this Valentino look makes it a work of art. Similarly, the gorgeous wood tone, visual movement, and unprecedented silhouette of this chair elevates a common item to a sculptural level.

Mixed Metallics

Photos courtesy of Vogue and Our Fifth House.

Keeping different metallic finishes separated is officially a thing of the past. This look from Miu Miu expertly mixes a gorgeous, sparkling white gown (with contrasting black sheers) with gold AND silver pieces — not to mention denim shoes (gasp!). Similarly, the possibilities are limitless when accessorizing your home. Check out these mixed gold/glossy black frames decorating a plain white wall. When it comes to taking standalone elements and arranging them into a stunning ensemble, sometimes it’s best to mix it all up.

Warm Industrial

Photos courtesy of Vogue and N. Beckstedt Studios.

In Jonathan Anderson’s ready-to-wear collection, we see rich leathers used as both surface and adornment, creating a look that is stunning yet practical. This warm, modernist style carries over into contemporary interiors through modern industrial architecture infused with warmth. A sense of ease is created by integrating organic materials and vintage pieces, resulting in a timeless yet approachable living space.

Glitter Goals

Photos courtesy of Vogue and KC Homes & Style.

Glitter is making a comeback! And no, we don’t mean the awful Mariah Carey movie circa 2001. Gone are the slinky, barely-there mini dresses — make way for long-lined elegance and glamour. The same goes for interior design; what was once almost solely associated with childhood arts and crafts has blossomed into the refined older sister. Sparkle accents done right can bring glamour and sophistication to spaces big and small.

As you can see, you don’t always have to commit to a complete overhaul to change things up. Sometimes getting creative and playing with your accessories and accent pieces can alter the mood and style of a room (or an outfit!).

Back to Black: 5 Shades We Love

Oct 04, 2018 No Comments

By: Danielle Clockel

When you think of neutrals, do you only think of greys, whites, and tans? Let’s change that! Moving to the darker end of the spectrum, there’s a plethora of charcoals, off-blacks, and deep tones that are incredibly versatile no matter your style.

Sherwin Williams’ Witching Hour

Photo courtesy of One Kings Lane.

Cooler than the other side of the pillow! This deep dark hue looks ultra sharp against crisp white trim on interior walls. If the thought of painting your home black makes you nervous, this is more of a jeweled blue — fancy!

Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green

Photo courtesy of Chalkboard Living.

By now you know we love this neutral; it changes color throughout the day as light hits it and is a great way to neutralize green and evoke a classic look. Great paint option for built-ins, cabinets, libraries, or a dramatic dining room.

Benjamin Moore’s Mopboard

Photo courtesy of The Kitchn.

A true black that looks velvety and soft, not stark and scary. Live your Victorian gothic dream with this brooding-yet-comfortable black.

Farrow & Ball’s Mahogany

Photo courtesy of Farrow & Ball.

As the name implies, this is a black so warm it almost goes brown. Perfect as a grounding contrast with golden yellows, soft taupes, and even wispy blushes.

Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black

Photo courtesy of Farrow & Ball.

A passionate purple-black. It’s deep, romantic, and inviting in an unexpected, non-Valentine’s Day way. Ooh la la!

October is a unique month that automatically shifts us into a darker, more dramatic aesthetic. Maybe it’s Halloween’s approach. Maybe it’s the anticipation of shorter days and colder temperatures. Whatever the reason, we embrace it!