Hello,
As the weather turns cooler, I find myself reflecting on the simple pleasures of comfort and coziness. Living in an old, drafty bungalow in Atlanta for over 20 years has taught me the importance of slowing down and embracing warmth. One of the ways I achieve this is by switching out my summer clothes for warmer versions, including sweaters, boots, and an abundance of socks.
Slowly introducing my fall wardrobe in the unpredictable Georgia weather.
Certain items in my wardrobe, such as deep pockets and comfy socks, have the ability to make me feel instantly at ease. Pockets are an obvious necessity for me, and I refuse to purchase clothes without them. When manufacturers neglect to include pockets in cute dresses or pants, I silently curse them and move on. Socks, on the other hand, can be a bit trickier. Many women’s fashion trends prioritize showing off ankles, leaving little room for warmth. However, thanks to the influence of Japanese fashion and style icons like Taylor Swift, women are beginning to realize that wearing socks is not only practical but also stylish.
My best friend rocking the socks (from Japan)!
When I design a room, I like to incorporate “pockets” and “socks.” By this, I mean that there must be ample closed storage for the little important and unimportant things that we don’t need everyone to see (pockets). I also want to have a light to read by, a cozy throw, a comfy pillow, and hopefully a little table to use for drinks (socks). This analogy can apply to every room in the home. In a kitchen, you want to have lots of closed storage and then some comfortable chairs to sit in.
Speaking of kitchens, I promised you an update on my kitchen and laundry room. I have spoken of the oft-requested desire for updates in the kitchens and baths in this blog, and how to do that on a budget (link). Last weekend, Allie (my daughter and design assistant) came over and helped me make my cabinetry sketches more feasible on the computer. We made cabinetry for all of our needs—an appliance garage, a spice and pantry pullout, a Costco closet for our Airbnb items, and a laundry center! (Makes me excited just thinking about it!) Here is a sneak peek before I send it to our carpenter:
The laundry area rendering so far…
When I brought this excitement to Ed (my husband and partner in life), he was not loving the initial color palette that I had introduced to you a few weeks ago. These choices included mushroom-painted cabinets and a terra cotta backsplash. What? Does he doubt my design finesse? My life’s work? These were the thoughts rolling around in my head. Much later, when I got out of that headspace, I decided that I would try again. The truth is, Ed is the primary cook and the laundry guy, and I would like to keep it that way, so I’d really like him to love these rooms!
Round 1 kitchen color palette.
Here is round 2. (If you have been following for a little while, there may be a round 3.) In this one, I am thinking of finding a unique quartzite with green veining to go on the countertops and instead and up the wall for a backsplash. I think that I will pair it with Sherwin Williams Oyster Bay cabinetry in both the laundry room and the kitchen. (I hope he likes it!)
Round 2 kitchen color palette. Thoughts?
Lastly, I wanted to remind you about our annual Open House in Candler Park. We would love to see you and introduce you to two special artists—Crysta Luke and Katie Vigilante. Their work is inspiring and easily incorporated into many homes. The opening called “Luke and Lush” is November 14th from 7-9 pm at our studio. This tradition gives us a chance to celebrate with you at the end of the year. We hope that you will join us!
Thank you for reading and talk to you next week for a special edition of Design Pulp! Save the date: Thursday November 14th, 7-9pm!
Stephanie