The Queen of Halloween

If you didn’t guess who I am speaking of when I say “Queen of Halloween,” you clearly were born in the post- insider trading era. Martha, Martha, Martha. If there is ever anyone to do everything right and everything tasteful regarding Halloween (or any special occasion), Martha Stewart surely reigns for this lifetime. Martha is the ultimate hostess with the most fabulous decorations and DIY ideas that are fit for any skilled handy-man.

Martha Stewart‘s name is synonymous with good taste, tasty recipes, and clever ideas for those that celebrate holidays in full force. While I could share my strategies for halloween decor (velvet pumpkins and white pumpkins stuffed with beautifully dried flowers), there are some things that Martha can explain and share so much more thoroughly.

Here are just some of my favorite Halloween ideas from the Queen of Halloween! Have a Happy, Spooky, and Tasteful day!

All images from Martha Stewart.

For Halloween Decor Tips

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The Purfect Accessory

A year ago today, I brought home a very tiny and furry friend. Since then, my black pug Emmie has made life all the more interesting! I have always loved pugs. They are quirky and inject immense personality into any room they enter. I also believe they are the ideal accessory to any home (hear me out!). From the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to Valentino, pugs tend to find themselves in chic places all over the world.

Why is that? After all, they shed like crazy and have sneaky habits that aren’t fine furniture friendly. I think it is due to their combination of stubborn whit and fearless personality. They are a breed whose origin is first traced to the the Chinese Prince of the House of Orange and that spread to France and other European royal families.

Pugs tend to find their way into photo shoots of design and in homes of famed designers. As a tribute to Emmie’s first year with me, here is a glimpse of her purfect breed in design.

Emmie The Potted Boxwood Pug at home

Emmie (destroying a green crocodile tray). Typical.

Katie Lee Joesls West Village kitchen by Nate Berkus in Domino

Nate Berkus designed this West Village kitchen for Katie Lee Joel and her sweet pug. Photo source: Domino

Older Pug in dining area by Albert Hadley via Elle Decor

A white dining area with a very white pug. Photo source: Elle Decor

Cecil beaton and pug via Mark D Sikes Blog

Cecil Beaton with a chic pug in this garden room. Photo source: Mark D. Sikes

Cheerful room via House Beautiful

A cheerful room and a playful pug. Photo source: House Beautiful

David Hicks with his pug

The legendary designer David Hicks with his pug.

Pug in A Closet by Natasha Esch via Elle Decor

A pug in a fashionable and stylish closet by Natasha Esch. Photo source: Elle Decor

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with her pugs

The Duchess of Windsor with some of her chic pugs.

Duke and Duchess of Windsors Home

The Duke and Duchess of Windsor really did love their pugs.

Pug and Potted Boxwood

A pug and a potted boxwood.

Pug in a room featured in Elle Decor

A casual and relaxed living space. Photo source: Elle Decor

Pug in a room of colored books

A pug enjoying  the company of some very colorful books.

Ralph Lauren Fall 2013

Ralph Lauren even enjoyed the presence of pugs in his 2013 ads.  A timeless accessory with classic furniture.

The Pug on the window bench makes this blue and white better

While the blue and white, as well as beautiful views may distract you, be sure not to miss the sleeping pug by the back right corner. What a life!

Valentino with one of his pug in AD

Of course, no pug post would be complete without the fashionable Valentino. He is known for his love of Pugs. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Valentinos Home in Rome

Valentino with more of his pugs outside of his home in Rome.

Emmie The Potted Boxwood Pug 2

Of course, none are cuter than this sweet Emmie girl.

Full of Drama

With a slight drop of temperature in Dallas, I am certainly ready for Fall to arrive and to stay. I suddenly find myself resisting sunny images with light colors and lush landscapes. Instead, I want more earthy tones and plush fabrics, as well as spaces full of dark colors and dimension. With this description, I realize that what I am longing for is rather boring and safe (although often necessary). Instead of predictable Fall decor, why not explore something a little more daring. Who better to add some drama to a space than interior designer Jamie Drake.

Drake’s design is colorful, bold, and dramatic. This apartment below fits my current mood of unpredictable. It adds shots of surprise at every corner, from the texture of the walls to the eye-pleasing contrast of color. Let’s have a little fun this Wednesday. After all, we can wrap ourselves in fur blankets on neutral sofas come December.

Photos by John Valiant for House Beautiful. To see more of Jamie Drake’s design visit his website.

Wallpaper in this entry by Jamie Drake via HB

Glamorous black and white zebra hall wallpaper. I especially love the gold and black mirror against it!

Black Sofa and window sil in NYC apartment by Jamie Drake via HB

A living room of Salmon Peach in Benjamin Moore Aura. So unexpected and yet it plays so well and effectively with the black sofa and black interior doors.

Jamie Drake Dining Room via HB

A dining room full of fabulous elements including a packed bookcase and exposed marble fireplace. Also, notice how the black and white lamps really pop against the salmon walls.

Screen and Blue room in NYC apartment by Jamie Drake

A fantastic use of blue walls and a patterned screen.

Sara Sosnowy painting in apartment by Jamie Drake via HB

Venetian plastered walls in the bedroom hallway allow for glossy texture and a perfect backdrop for modern art.

Yellow bed pops in this room by Jamie Drake via HB

 

Everything looks dramatic against these walls. What a bed frame!

Dramatic lamp and sitting area by Jamie Drake via HB

Moody and plush. The corner in this bedroom is full of strong gold and glossy black.

Freestanding Cast Iron Tub by Jamie Drake via HB

A serene bathroom with a free-standing cast iron soaking tub. A fresh splash of neutrals within the colorful home.

Watercolor wallcovering in room by Jamie Drake via HB

A watercolor blown-up onto the wall covering adds movement and serenity to this multi-shaded bedroom.

 

Classically Carter

I am happy to be back with you all after a wonderful weekend in Atlanta celebrating my close friends’ beautiful wedding. Not only was the city chic and sophisticated, but it was abundant with hospitality and stylish residents (as well as residences!). Speaking of hospitality, the mother-of-the-bride was so incredibly thoughtful that during the midst of all of the wedding activities she handed me a personally signed coffee table book by interior designer Darryl Carter.

I have known of Darryl’s work, but the book gave me a chance to explore more of his stylish interiors in depth. Carter’s decor is classic and current combined. Each room is serene with a sense of composure and history. His traditional aesthetic, as well as his use of clean lines, make for a home that will never look dated. It is no wonder that Darryl entitled his coffee table book, The Collected Home.

And…. in case you were wondering, the wedding was a classically chic affair. Best wishes to my friends Sara and Andrew, who are most likely basking on the beach in the Caribbean right now. For the rest of us, Happy Tuesday!

 

A home by Darryl Carter via Mark D Sikes

A stunning home with interior design by Darryl Carter. Love the boxwoods out front! Photo source: Mark D. Sikes

A traditional and modern room by Darryl Carter

Traditional and historical pieces incorporated with more modern coffee-tables.

A Washington DC Bathroom by Darryl Carter via AD

A light-filled and fresh bathroom. Notice the placement on the window within the shower, as well as the iron work around the free-standing tub. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Bathroom by Darryl Carter via Veranda

I adore the simplicity and cleanliness of this all white bathroom. Photo source: Veranda

Kitchen by Darryl Carter via AD

Speaking of white. A beautiful kitchen to display blue and white china. Also, the wood beams and wood floors really pop! This kitchen will never be out of style. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Current and Classic Bedroom by Darryl Carter via Elle Decor

More modern touches are visible in this Miami bedroom by Carter. I love his ability to make a white room have so much depth. Photo source: Elle Decor

Darryl Carter chic kitchen via Mark D Sikes

The light fixture as well as the Macau bar stools are just some of the  wonderful aspects of this kitchen full of contrast. Photo source: Mark D. Sikes

Darryl Carter via AD

I have a slight obsession with this room of neutrals and texture. So well done! Photo source: Architectural Digest

Darryl Carter via Elle Decor

This kitchen shows just how versatile Carter can be in his design. From the exposed distressed wood shelving to the more classic marble top, this kitchen with painted floors is truly designed to inspire. Photo source: Elle Decor

Darryl Carter via Veranda

An outdoor living area by Carter that is both effortless and inviting. Photo source: Veranda

A Washington DC Home by Darryl Carter via AD

A divine and sophisticated entry with lots of architectural character. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Darryl Carters DC Kitchen via Elle Decor

If I was forced to pick favorites of Carter’s design work, his kitchens would be my top choices. No one does them better. Between the glossy painted wood floors to the fireplace and open shelving, this kitchen is the epitome of chic and collected living. Photo source: Elle Decor

Darryl Carters DC townhouse via Elle Decor

Herringbone floors and beautifully black shuttered doors add just the right mix of classic design to this bathroom.

 

Landscape Of Atlanta

Atlanta is a city that has wonderful curb appeal. Whether it is a charming tudor or an elegant home in Buckhead, residents understand the importance of good landscaping. A name I often come across when researching Atlanta homes is the landscape firm of Howard Design Studio. On each project, John Howard creates a masterpiece oasis full of potted plants, lush texture, and grand dimension. While his landscape design is tasteful, it is often happily unexpected.

I can’t wait to share more fun Atlanta design when I return. Per usual, check my instagram for up to the minute pictures!

A classic and elegant landscape design by Howard Design Studio

An exquisite pergola with potted topiaries and beautiful hedges. Stunning!

Boxwood perfection by Howard Design Studio

Symmetry and beautiful boxwood elegance. I love that off-white brick color!

John Howard Boxwood Home via TTI

A glimpse of the boxwood house in Atlanta, formerly owned by Danielle Rollins. So classic enchanting. Photo source: Things That Inspire

Howard Design Studio landscaping and sundial

Another glimpse of the Boxwood house. This sundial centerpiece is as timeless as the home.

John howard crates a lovely walkway via Litchfielddesigns

A lovely pathway lined with hydrangeas and ending with a chic black bench. Photo source: Litchfield Designs

John Howard Landscape via TFDAMH

Often people place fountains in the center, but this wall fountain is superb and sophisticated. I love the different tiers of plants and mix of texture and color. Photo source: The Foo Dog Ate My Homework

John Howard Landscape via Elle Decor

A more contemporary exterior with oversized circular boxwoods framing the home. The circular boxwoods really add a sharp edge of current dimension. Photo source: Elle Decor

John Howard pool and boxwood landscape via TTI

Potted boxwoods perfected in contrasting white planters. Photo source: Things That Inspire

John Howard landscaping in Atlanta

I love the rows and layers of greenery around this home’s exterior.

Pool landscape by John Howard via AHMag

A classic and current pool area created by Howard Design Studio. Photo source: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

 

 

Not The Norm

I have mentioned before how deceiving homes can be. They can be built so beautifully, so exquisitely, and yet lack so much on the interior side. I am a firm believer that every space can be beautiful, but I often find that not every beautifully built space lives up to that potential. It is one of designs many tragedies, when an architect and designer’s vision don’t harmoniously mesh together. Both play such a crucial role in the making of a phenomenal house, no matter how grand or how small the scale.

Anyone who has a good eye and sense of space can transform an interior, but not every home has a good foundation. To continue with my Georgian theme, I thought I would feature one of Atlanta’s most renown architects and creator of good foundations. Norman Askins has been in the business of designing and restoring some of the most prominent and classic homes throughout Atlanta. While his work is fantastically classic Atlanta, his design vision is anything but the norm.

 

Askins Residence Villa Vecchia cia TTI

The entrance to Norman’s Atlanta home Villa Vecchia, meaning “Old House”. Photo source: Frances Schultz

Atlanta stone home by Norman Askins via Georgianadesign

A lovely drive to this stone home with striking black shutters. Photo source: Georgiana design

 

Customa Gate and lantern by Norman Askins via AHL

Askins definitely knows how to add a storybook appeal and personality to his homes. His gates and entrances give his homes architectural charm. Photo source: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

Garden and fountain designed by architect Norman Askins via his website

A magical old world courtyard and fountain. I love the loose landscaping and beautiful arches in his design.

Home by Norman Askins via Veranda

When I think of Atlanta homes this is exactly what comes to mind. Stately, sophisticated, and timeless. Photo source: Veranda

Perfectly appointed pool by Norman Askins

White potted boxwoods by the pool and remarkable symmetry.

Sunroom by Norman Askins Architect

Askins really is a jack of all trades. He can go from traditional to current to old world and back. I love the industrial doors on this seamlessly traditional entry. He does not do boring!

Chinese Chippendale screened in porch by Norman Askins

A Chinese chippendale pool house adds a punch of personality to this backyard pool setting. Photo source: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle

White house black door beuatiful boxwoods by Noman Askins

My idea of heaven. White house, large columns, black shutters and boxwoods.

Blue Garden Gate by Norman Askins via AHL

Another charming garden gate finished in a serene blue.

Book by Norman Askins

Norman Askins book was recently released this month. I can’t wait to order and see more of his superb architectural design. Click picture to purchase.

 

Photos not tagged can be found on the website of Norman Askins.

A Lovely Atlantan

It is often said that Atlanta is just like Dallas, but with a lot more trees. At the end of the week I am heading to Atlanta, so I am choosing to feature gorgeous Georgia homes on the blog all week. When I think of Atlanta, I automatically think of the beautiful boxwood house decorated by Miles Redd and formerly owned by the super-talented tastemaker Danielle Rollins.

Also when I think of Atlanta, I think of the incredibly chic Suzanne Kasler whose design business is based in the city. Today, I want to feature a home she designed that is equal parts comfortably classic and elegantly sophisticated. Kasler creates an inviting ambience that does not lack in detail or exquisite design aesthetic. It is a wonderful welcome to the versatile design of Atlanta.

Photos by Pieter Estersohn for Architectural Digest

TPB Suzanne Kasler exterior  via AD

The back exterior of the home designed by Kasler that is a gorgeous mix of natural elements and smart landscaping.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 2

The ceilings in this home steal the show. So much attention to detail. A casual and elegant living space.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD

I love the round chandelier and eclectic mix of pattern and furniture.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 3

A warm and intimate dining area. I love how it has a living room feel and planked walls.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 4

Notice the lamps by the stove. How personal and classic is this kitchen?!

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 5

Vaulted ceilings along with soft colors and texture. I love beautiful white bedding.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 6

The ceiling work and glamorous touches of glass and texture are flawless in this bathroom.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 9

A unique guest bath of earthy tones and natural elements.

TPB Suzanne Kasler via AD 10

A perfect backyard oasis full of garden stools and succulents.

Industrial Views

While I don’t ever foresee myself having industrial windows, I do appreciate them and the aesthetic that they bring to a space. Who wouldn’t want to walk into a room of a large wall of windows with striking frames? They are architecturally significant all on their own accord. In my opinion, the key is to mix them with pieces that don’t overshadow their ambience.

These images of rooms below are fabulously chic and eclectic. They belong in an industry of their own.

Have a great weekend!

An industrial and welcoming living area by Michael Neumann via AD

A superb open living area with industrial doors and chic wood beams designed by Michael Neumann. Photo source: Architectural Digest

An industrial loft in Amsterdam via Jelanie Blog

A high ceiling Amsterdam loft with industrial doors and windows overlooking a quaint courtyard. What a striking space! Photo source: Jelanie Blog

Bathroom by Jeffrey Bilhuber via House Beautiful

Jeffrey Bilhuber masters this bathroom with industrial shower doors. If I had to use industrial doors, I think I would use them first for a shower. So masculine and sophisticated. Photo source: House Beautiful 

A gorgeous open living area with industrial doors

An all around lovely skylighted living room with three pairs of industrial fresh doors. The room itself is so very traditional, but the doors add a vibe of current character.

Beautiful Industrial Doors via Veranda

A remarkable and stunning front entry of a home featured in Veranda magazine.

A Spanish Revivial Bathroom by Deirdre Doherty via House Beautiful

A rustic industrial shower door with frosted textured glass by designer Deirdre Doherty. Photo source: House Beautiful 

Industrial Glass Room dividers via Elle Decoration UK

An interior industrial glass partition in a very modern and minimalist space. Photo source: Elle Decoration UK

Istabul Home of Designer Aslio Tunca via World of Interiorsjpg

A divine image of industiral french doors and a marble tub at the Istabul home designed by Asli Tunca via World of Interiors.

Netherlands home of Casper and Suzy Vissers in Elle Decor

I love industrial doors, especially since you can get a better view of the chic hedges outside. A very modern space designed by Casper and Suzy Vissers via Elle Decor.

Richard Shapiro's Malibu Home via AD

I really adore this dreamy room of textured walls, industrial doors, and inviting white sofas in Richard Shapiro’s Malibu home. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Studio Home door by Tom Kundig in Architectural Digest

What an entrance! Smaller frames on this oversized door in home of Tom Kundig. Photo source: Architectural Digest

Details in Dallas

Apologies for my absence yesterday, I have a bit much going on (the word over-extended comes to mind). Honestly, it feels like a lot is going on all around me. If you don’t live under a rock, you will know that Ebola is a hot topic in Dallas and around the world.  If you follow my instagram, you will know that I post many tasteful and well-appointed homes on many Dallas streets. For a point of reference, those neighborhoods are not even ten minutes away from the hospital that is caring for the Ebola patients.

While this is not a Dallas blog or a daily health update, this is happening in the town of The Potted Boxwood. I certainly don’t want Ebola to overshadow all the beauty that exists here in Dallas. Today, I want to show you images from a very refreshing and approachable Dallas home that is currently featured in D Home Magazine. This Greenway Parks residence is comprised of a neutral base with pops of colorful energy and lively pattern. It is a breath of fresh air that is so desperately needed.

See you tomorrow!

Interior design by Carrie Hatfield. Photos by Stephen Karlisch for D Magazine.

Blues and Greens of Beauty in Dallas via D Home Magazine

Modern art and lots of light texture. A playful sitting area that is full of smart design elements.

Leapord chairs against soft mint walls via D Home Magazine

How stunning are those leopard chairs and the marble block table? Lots of pop and subtle detail on the shelves.

Dining room with soft wallpaper via D Home Magazine

Gracie gets me every time! Here it is paired with a modern rug and classic dining table.

Open kitchen in Dallas via D Home Magazine

I love the large galley kitchen with long island. The copious amount of light in the home really allows for a fun play of contrast with dark floors and light cabinets.

Tufted banquet with blue and white in Dallas via D Home Magazine

A sweet tufted banquet compliments this tulip table. I love the walls of windows and blue and white porcelain.

Texture and Light in this Dallas home via D Home Magazine

A smart and sophisticated living area. Texture and pattern working wonderfully together. Notice how the fireplace is very simple, as not to detract from the rest of the room.

Gorgeous wallpaper with shades of green and blue via D Home Magazine

A stunning Dessin Fournir bed against a fantastically wallpapered bedroom. What I adore the most about this room is the blue velvet tufted bench with striking green pillows. That color combination is just superb.

Girl's room in a Dallas Home featured in D Home Magazine

A sweet girl’s room with lovely pattern, bright colors, and a sweet demeanor.

 

 

 

 

N Y Chic

Do you ever have grand plans for a trip? Restaurants you must go to and places you must see? I think when you travel somewhere you can get “eyes bigger than your stomach,” and not only for fabulous food. I was constantly on the go and unable to take as many chic in NYC pictures as I would have liked, but on my non-uber driven routes I was able to snap some everyday upper east side images that have the ultimate curb appeal.

As you will see, many of these NYC townhouse entries were in the halloween spirit and welcoming of the cool fall weather. Most of all, the city-lined hedges and potted boxwoods by the doorman’s post are almost enough to make me stop using “y’all” and start taking the subway. Enjoy this small selection of photos and note that these are from the iphone (apologies for any poor clarity/editing).

TPB NYC 19

Mirrored potted spiraling topiaries showcase a classic black door. I love the iron work against the windows.

TPB NYC 33

A beautiful topiary flanked entry at night.

TPB NYC 32

A flawless and intimate green garden courtyard.

TPB NYC 31

A mix of height and hedge. Why don’t more places (besides cities) line their hedges with petite open iron fences??

TPB NYC 30

Green that is abundantly round and full of dimension.

TPB NYC 28

Perfect sidewalk pots arranged for fall.

TPB NYC 27

Incredible lighting and landscaping in front of this building with central park views.

TPB NYC 24

The divine corner of boxwood and boxwood.

TPB NYC 29

This potted boxwood with ornamental cabbage lining is slighting overlooked with the copious amounts of halloween decor. How fun to do this in the city?! My only concern is, wouldn’t people steal these things?

TPB NYC 22

A sweet brick townhouse courtyard. I wish I would have captured the beautiful hedges within.

TPB NYC 20

A townhouse of an interior designer that has been featured on the blog. A perfect mix of mums and pumpkins. I wish you could see the entire building with boxwoods lining each window sill!

TPB NYC 17

Sadly, I got the cars in this picture. How fun is this exterior decoration with the birds and purple webbing!?

TPB NYC 12

My favorite block of potted glory.

TPB NYC 10

At first I was convinced that this older gentleman was in the way, but it is very clear he made the picture wonderfully classic, against a beautifully classic city home.

TPB NYC 8

Architecturally significant, stately, and stunning.

TPB NYC 6

The iron work on the windows is fantastically finished. I also admire the framework detail around the door.

TPB NYC 4

This picture does not do this oversized potted boxwood justice. Large in size and superbly scaled against the large columns and stairways.

TPB NYC 11

Hope your Tuesday is as sweet as a rose macaroon.