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Friday, May 21, 2010

oddities...

My design aesthetic has truly grown over the years as I grow and have the opportunity to experience more and more wonderful things. I used to have a completely white canvas with every piece of furniture coated in shades of white. No wood ever saw the light of day. Over the last few years I have begun to embrace not just wood, but many other materials in many new ways. I have also learned to appreciate rich black, deep charcoal and warm shades of chocolate brown. The transformation has developed with each new oddity that finds its way into my home. My inspiration comes from old slate chalkboards, delicate bird's nests, pitted old metal in any form, hard working utilitarian baskets, and the list goes on...and on. Of course I still have an ongoing love affair of all things white and lovely...but now I can appreciate how dramatic a charcoal wall can offset a collection of Ironstone...or how a heavily carved Indonesian door can be a beautiful backdrop for a simple white hydrangea.











Thursday, May 20, 2010

Picking up sea shells...


For the love of the sea...


I truly love living on a little island in the Gulf of Mexico. It is a blessing to be a mere walk away from the shore. The beauty that surrounds me makes me feel like I am home. From the first time I visited the shore as a little girl, I couldn't help but to fill my pockets with shells and tuck them in my suitcase. I have always had shells around me, even living in the hills of West Virginia. Now that I am a grown up little girl I feel as though this is where my inspiration for an entire career was formed. I am known as a designer by my affinity for a muted monochromatic palette...my appreciation for antiquity...and for my love affair with all things naturally beautiful. It is no mistake that I landed on the shores of Sanibel Island. Even though sea shells grace every little spot in my home, I can't help but fill my pockets as I walk along the shore. I have tried to integrate the same serene palette, simple elegance and love of all things natural into my shop. Here are a few images from inside Surroundings...


Vintage metal tin bucket with charming shell motif.


A simpe jar filled with shells adds a charming accent.


A lovely piece of vintage fabric with a delicate shell pattern lends grace to a small chair.


Tuly special sea shore treasures are artfully displayed and perfectly protected under glass garden cloches.










Monday, May 17, 2010

a few of my favorite things...





My love of creating continues to grow everyday. From bits of lace, old picture frames and glorious shells comes lovely whimsical treasures exuding femininity and subtle elegance. So gather your bits and bobs and create something lovely...

Sunday, May 16, 2010

a new adventure


This is a wonderful new adventure for me to be able to share a bit of my world with you. Life is full of unexpected surprises...thank goodness. I have been blessed to have a career that is a seamless addition to my everyday life. It is a privilege and honor to share the creative process with you.