One concept, two takes - the neutral living room

I love the idea of a gorgeous neutral space, they feel fresh and sophisticated. Mostly monochromatic rooms aren't as practical with pets and children but when done with the right amount of texture, contrast and pattern, they whisper = perfection. 

The transitional version

The classic version

Cottage Love #69 - Amanda Brooks

Today, on this lovely Monday, I am sharing the charming home and farm of blogger, writer and fashion insider, Amanda Cutter Brooks. Brooks shares a bucolic home with her young family in Oxfordshire, England. Amanda has written three books and has opened an equally adorable boutique in rural England. Here is a peek at her home, see additional images here.  There are far too many perfect details to point out....I've also shared images of her Boutique.  For more gorgeous inspiration, follow Amanda on Instagram .

Amanda's most recent books, Always Pack a Party Dress, explores the correlation of personal style and identity. The latest book, Farm from Home, documents a year of her life on their family farm in England - Amanda shares stories, pictures and recipes from a city girl now living in the country. Images via One King's Lane and Architectural Digest. 

"An authentic voice in the world of style and how-to books, Amanda Brooks, with her unique and enviable yet accessible style, has inspired thousands of women of all ages to find their own personal look and explore their identity through the clothes they love to wear."

Amanda's Home

Amanda's Boutique - Cutter Brooks: 

sells clothing and table top items and smaller housewares

Table top - Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, 'tis the season to make your home a more inviting and cozy space for friends, family and yourself. I always turn my thoughts from the outdoors to the indoors this time of year. I will be hosting a small Thanksgiving day dinner at my home. I don't just love designing interiors; creating table-scapes and flower arrangement are also a fun creative outlet.  There are an array of wonderful ways to create a beautiful table top. I often incorporate the following for Fall: ( most of these items can be found fairly inexpensively at local grocery, garden and florist shops.) Here are some photos from my table last Thanksgiving. 

* white, orange and green pumpkins and/or gourds
* beautiful linens
* candles
* fruit
* vegetables
* a mix of old and new china
* leaves
* feathers (I used these last year)
* flowers
* pine cones
* greens
* herbs
* cloth pumpkins and decorative objects
* gilded and brass animals - I often head to Etsy  for vintage finds 
* pretty vases
* anything tortoise in color
* antlers 
* fabric remnants
* burlap
* painting dyi
* velvet ribbon
* copper
* wood, twigs
* hand made cutting boards 

Here are some inspirational photos to get you brainstorming for your own holiday tables. 

Shelter Loves

I know there wasn't a full moon this week but it certainly felt like it!! The week ended on a positive note and The Boston Red Sox are heading to the World Series! I'm not a sports fanatic but I do love a good playoff game and the Boston sports teams. Also, a HUGE thank you for all the birthday love on Monday!! Here's what grabbed me this week. 

1. Croc embossed bags and unique shapes. I like to support women in business and shop small, Loeffler designs are usually swoon worthy with a classic twist.
2. This scalloped light for a little girl's room, it's actually affordable. 
3. I am constantly trying to better myself. Remaining calm and non-reactive is a super power I am working to master.
4. Faux-fur "teddy bear" coats. My daughter is slightly obsessed with her stuffie collection. I think I know where she gets her love of fluffy things from!
5. Pretty details and the perfect sweater to wear around the holiday season. 
6. I am drawn to homes with large, black steel window frames that beautifully meld the indoors and outdoors.