Shelter's Studio!

I was sitting in bed last night scrolling through Insta while simultaneously texting a good friend. This has been my typical way to unwind after a busy day and the often hellacious bedtime duty with my charming children. ;) (last night was not too bad, I only had to break up one fight between the kids). I mentioned to my friend that it's amazing how pulled together and perfect most people's lives look through social media. Mine at times feels anything but that. I should also get back to reading before bedtime but sometimes I am just too tired and have trouble focusing my brain on the words! If that makes sense. I do however appreciate a glimpse inside and behind the scenes of people's lives, especially the creative types. Today, I'm sharing a peek at mine. I've since moved my office to another location but every single item remains basically the same. Here's where you will find me creating schemes, devising drawings, corresponding with clients and of course blogging!! I prefer light and airy spaces to dark and I find color uplifting and engaging. I'm continually updating my inspiration board behind me. Thanks for stopping by today! xoxo  (all photography by Ann-Marie Rollo - she also sells beautiful prints)

I have had a few people inquire about the beach print. It is by Max Wanger, you can purchase it here!

Ahhhh Jenna!

It's a funny thing "change", it is bound to come at one time or another in all of our lives. Whether you are the impetus for it or not, only we are solely responsible for deciding how we choose to harness the energy from it. Do we cling to hope and create a new, better version of our existence and selves or do we let fear control our thoughts, mind and heart!? The scary yet wonderful thing is, you get to decide. This is where your strength lies during the uncertain and uncomfortable moments on this crazy roller coaster ride we call life. 

I'm guessing both J.Crew and Jenna needed a change. Hell, she was with the same company for 26 years and has been given a ton of credit for turning the uber preppy, buttoned up company of the 80's + 90's into an ultra accessible and stylish power house! Jenna is a top three style icon for me but not only is she a fashionista, her work ethic and business sense is an inspiration too. Her fearless and innate ability to mix high with low, old and new, edgy with chic is genius. I would not be lying if I stated over half my wardrobe is made up of J.Crew finds. This is exactly what I aim to do with my wardrobe and designs! Jenna we will miss the hell out of you at the helm of J.Crew and can only hope the company will continue to deliver fabulous frocks. What's even more exciting is to see where you end up next, something tells me you have a another trick or two up your sleeve!! Cheers and good luck! We'll be watching..Let's take a peek at the fabulousness of Jenna Lyons!!  (I'm sure every blogger I admire is doing the same today) Stay tuned tomorrow for a peek of my creative space! xoxoxox

HELL YES!!! My Dad taught me this at a young age. Thank god!! I was scared as hell and with two babies but I was able to leave my marriage when I had to get out because of these words of wisdom!

The color palette in my house was inspired by this image!

Word to this!

Her office

Pops of pink!

I need this pick me up today. I'm adoring the beautiful light quality, vibrant pops of color and pink moments in stylist/artist Kate Schelter's Manhattan home. I love how a home's interior design and color palette can change your mood instantly. I'm constantly refining my living space to make it the best it can be on my budget!! Happy Monday hunnies! xoxo 

Also check out Kate's fun watercolors. She executes custom murals and will paint commissioned pieces!! 

Shelter Loves

Forgive my late night post, this day got away from me! Wishing you all a wonderful weekend full of goodness! I got to spend the night chatting away with a high-school friend, I feel thankful for that! :) xo

1. I've been obsessing over floral wallpaper lately (see earlier post). I have a sample of this beauty on the way to my house. I still have not pulled the trigger on my bedroom bathroom wallpaper. This is Kanchou by Brunschwig and Fils ( when certain aspects of my life are sticky, I tend to lose myself in design, it's therapeutic. I am sure most of my readers will agree!!)
2. I have an affection for a good scallop design. I'd love to invest in a set of these dishes! 
3. Ummm, the stylish but comfy slide trend is working for me! Yes please, to these!
4. 100%. Every frustrating, annoying and angry moment eventually passes!
5. I love hammock season, there's something very soothing about swinging under the trees on a warm, sunny day. 
6. I appreciate a client who will take risks with paint. This Ashley Whittaker moment is divine. Via House Beautiful.

Love the Look - A tisket a tasket

I try to look on the bright side with the change of seasons! Handbags, clutches and totes can add the perfect textural layer to your look. Here's a round up of my favorite straw totes and bags this season.

1//2//3//4//5//6//7//

Lighten up, brighten up!

I'm currently designing three kitchen projects and a few bathrooms. They are rewarding jobs because, not only do I get to put my mixologist skills to work for the finish and color selections but my Master's degree training comes into play. I love envisioning how ceilings will meet and planes intersect. One of the projects has a smaller dated kitchen that we are trying to open up, expand and lighten visually as much as possible. In fact, the before shots of our project remind me a little bit of this Ojai's project by the talented Amber Interiors. (girlfriend is on fire).. Check out this beautiful transformation. I would LOVE to raise the ceiling, just like this!! And look at the power of warm, white paint!

Before:

Flower Power in the powder room ...

Hola! How's things?? The weather has been dreadful here. I can't wait for the gloomy days to end. I've been on the hunt for a perfect wallpaper for a client's powder room and these cheery colorful flower prints made me happy today!

If you are looking for a personal monogram than CeCe DuPraz is your source! She does a beautiful job!! And this Schumacher, Seychelles wallpaper is to die for!!! I can't get it off my mind.