SMALL SPACE DWELLER HANDBOOK: Use Dark Paint To Create A Big Impact

One of my fave designers, Kelly Van Patter, has such a gorgeous home in Silverlake. I love how rustic yet elegant yet accessible her design aesthetic is - lovely! I especially love her dining room and how she incorporated a very neat design element that would work in a small space. Instead of keeping the molding dark and everything else white, she painted the main wall a dark color and kept the border white. Since the ceiling is also white, this allows for the space to really open up and keep your eye moving towards the ceiling. Fab! Check out a full tour of Kelly's home over at Apartment Therapy.

SMALL SPACE ACCENTS: Zodiac Pillows

Pillows are a great way to add color and texture to your small space. Loving these pretty zodiac pillows that I spotted at Calypso Home. The neutral fabric provide a sweet background to the pretty and sparkly zodiac accent. Fun!

SMALL SPACE DWELLER HANDBOOK: Customize Your Furniture To Suit Your Small Space

one of the best small space tips is to edit your space. really be thoughtful about the furniture and decor you keep so you can use it in the best way possible. an extension of this idea is to create or even customize furniture so it really fits in your small home. there are fab ways to achieve this without breaking the bank.

one example is a palette bed I spotted over at Design*. I love how rustic and visual this twin bed is - small but makes a big impact. by picking up a few palettes (just head over to a chain home store like Home Depot and you can grab some in the back for free) and casters (also at Home Depot for about $10/each), this small space DIY is accessible and resourceful.

Check out more pages from the SMALL SPACE DWELLER HANDBOOK.

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Row Houses

Georgetown

Amsterdam

Boston

San Francisco

Soho

I have always wanted to live in a row house and can easily say my love of small spaces could be inspired by them. I grew up in MD and often visited DC and Georgetown and my love of these pretty vertical buildings was sealed early on. The architecture, lines and texture of the facades are gorgeous and their vertical size is super appealing. I can see why I've always felt comfy in big vertical cities like New York and San Francisco. Small space ideas are aplenty inside these gems - now I just gotta get myself one! Have a great weekend and enjoy the holiday!

DESIGN INSPIRATION: Old Magazines

I often talk about my stacks of inspiration notebooks where I keep years of old magazine pages, imagery, you name it! I often flip through them to gather inspiration for loving. living. small., apartment therapy and other projects I am working on. In fact, these little books are what encouraged me to start a blog. Since they are hidden away in books, I started blogging some of images I keep in here and it not only keeps them fresh and relevant but provides a new place to house them. I am a big believer in keeping old mags - love flipping through them and stacking them and all that good stuff. Consider starting your own inspiration book and enjoy!

THEMES MAKE A BIG IMPACT

Living Room

Living Room

Kitchen to Dining Room
*loving the pops of blue in the accents*

Master Bedroom

Entry Way

Small space dwellers should absolutely consider color and color accents in their small spaces. An accent wall or wallpaper in colorful palettes can open up a small space. That being said, if color isn't really your thing, then consider staying with a theme throughout your entire small space - every room. I spotted this fabulously designed home by Jessica Helgerson. It's theme - stark white walls with rich dark wood accents. The living room, dining room, bedroom, etc all have this look integrated into the space and it works! Check out the full slideshow here.

a little MJ love

Just like me, I know so many of you grew up with Michael Jackson. I would dance in my bedroom while listening to the Thriller album. I remember going over to my friend's house to watch the Thriller video premiere because my house didn't have cable yet. What a time and what an icon!

I attended an event at the Look Gallery at the LA Mart in April that featured the King of Pop (MJ) and the King of Cool (Steve McQueen) and posted about it on 2 modern. I wanted to share more of these photos with you because the artwork is pretty amazing!

Also, one of the fab ATLA writers, Grace, did a musical roundup for MJ. Click here to head over to Apartment Therapy LA.

DESIGN INSPIRATION | Weekly

| Loving Cassie's newest chapter of Style (E) scapes featuring outdoor spaces + entertaining, especially the imagery from Zinke. (see photo)

| Check out the fab giveaway from Danni of oh, hello friend. This would make a great small space accent!

| Summer love + bright colors via original watercolor postcards over at Lindsey's etsy shop. I would love to see a trio of these in a small space.

| This white kitchen is seriously inspiring and Kylie of Bandelle has showcased it beautifully! This is going in my dream house file.

| Oh la la - pretty mood boards over at Oh Happy Day are perfect for small space color inspiration.

Check back every Friday for a little design inspiration from around the web.

Have a lovely weekend!

FAB NY SMALL SPACE

I am a huge fan of the lovely Michelle's fabric line, Rubie Green. It's an amazing and pretty collection of fabrics and design. When Real Living published her gorgeous (small) NYC pad, I was excited to see her fab style extends through her space. Formerly a stylist for domino, it's no surprise that Michelle's apartment is stunning, well designed and perfectly uses the small space to her advantage (loving the stacking books to double as a side table). Check out the full article here.

THATCHED OTTOMAN. FAB.

I enjoyed Sunday in Laguna Beach and popped into the great home store called Tuvalu. Aside from the amount of great home accents selections (like some pretty green glass objects), I spotted this awesome thatched ottoman. How cool is this?!? I would love this layered with the CB2 yellow console table in an entryway! The mixing of textures would really make a visual impact.

SMALL SPACE ACCENTS: Small Hanging Vases

I have always loved the look of small hanging vases and when I spotted this clever and easy small space DIY, I wanted to share with you guys. The hook and vase costs under $20. Get some eclectic mirrors and you are good to go.

Blog Out Loud TV launch!!

Hello loving. living. small. readers!

I am still on my small break but wanted to share the launch of Blog Out Loud TV!

Click here to check out 3 mini-webisodes from the first Blog Out Loud event a few weeks ago that covers common themes that curious and new bloggers often have. We'll be adding more videos in the next 2 weeks so check back in for blogging inspiration. Also, definitely check out the Blog Out Loud blog for some great resources including a thoughtful and informative interview with blogging guru, Melanie Nelson of Blogging Basics 101.

Hope you are having a *fabulous* weekend and see you all next!

xo, Rebecca

small break.

spending time with fam. be back in a few. xo

A NEW TAKE ON THE CHALKBOARD PAINT WALL

I do love the chalkboard painted walls in many homes. It's a clever and visual way to showcase black and creativity in your small space. When I spotted this leaning black board in a wooden frame, I thought it was a neat take on this. Fab!

DESIGN INSPIRATION: the High Line in New York City

I was so excited to finally see some photos of the new downtown park, the High Line, in Manhattan's west side. Just a few years ago, I actually worked 2 blocks from this area and frequented the shops, bars and yummy restaurants (miss you, Flourent) and, of course, saw the steel frame of the old elevated rail road. The mix of textures - steel, wood, greenery, metal - all comes together in this pretty yet sparse area running along and above 10th Ave. Consider mixing elements in your own small space - love that!

[Full slideshow via Treehugger]

Hoping for a sunny weekend!

It's been gray and not very sunny here in sunny LA. I snapped this photo a few weeks ago and will cross my fingers for a pretty day. Have a great weekend!

oh la la missoni

i. want. this. bedding. (via desire to inspire)

good vibes.

I am loving this colorful and plain cool card featured on the Parcel Post blog. I want to frame 3 of these and place them on my kitchen window sill. Small accents make big impressions.

loving. living. small. chats with Jessica Rust Jessica Rust Designs Personalized Dinnerware

- Tattoo collection -

- Love Birds collection -

- Best Friends collection -

- Family Tree collection -

I have been a huge fan of Jessica Rust's lovely personalized dinnerware for a while now. Simple yet enchanting, her passion and creativity embodies her craft. I love the idea that small details can make a big impact in a small space and using this dinnerware to dine or as a home decor accent will surely do just that. I am thrilled to have e-met her and she sweetly agreed to do a little interview with loving. living. small. Enjoy reading about some of Jessica's inspiration and style for Rust Designs.

I was turned onto your pretty dinnerware by the personalized collection. I immediately fell in love with your designs. What is the inspiration behind it?
Thank you! Long walks with my dog. Gives me a chance to clear my head I don't take a phone so I can really see what's around me. I love nature but am not a nature girl my idea of a nice weekend in the country would be a nice big porch and someone serving wine. I use a lot of what see around me in my work. I will often take photos and go from there.

What other ways have you or do you like to see your dinnerware being used? (i.e. as an art display, etc)
I hope people will use my dinnerware, I'm not a fan of dinnerware on the wall, not that it can't be lovely. My grandmother has the most amazing collection all over her kitchen, but I really designed it to used and incorporated into dinnerware you might already own.

Small space dwellers definitely have to consider the amount of things that can go into any space. How much "dinner ware" do you feel the average couple needs in their kitchen?
Hmm I suppose that depends on how much you like to entertain. I would say at a minimum 6 dinner plates, salad/dessert plates and bowls. More of course if you like to have friends over. That way you're not washing dishes all the time. Of course you need mugs I never seem to have enough.

I watched your great profile on The Today Show (congrats!) I love your passion and drive. How did it feel when your product "made it"?
I've been asked this before and I'm not sure that I've made it, kind of always wanted a porsche perhaps when I can afford one I'll feel I've made it.

Tell us about your work studio? Would it be considered a small space and how do you use it?
I lived in NY for too long for this to be a small space. It is a wonderful space a fabulous space. The space is a carriage house that we (my husband and I renovated) it's not a finished space but it gets amazing light in the winter, has 16' ceilings. It's a bit hot in the summer with the kilns going, but I love it. The first floor of my studio is where production is done. The second floor is my office and work table where I hash out my designs.

I love the colorful designs on your newest collection, Tattoo. What are your fave color tips in a space?
Thank you. Well, first and foremost if you could see my house you would know I LOVE color. I use it a lot. Biggest tip; to not be afraid of deep or dark colors they can actually make your space feel larger. I hate hearing when people say they can't use this really rich color because it will make the space feel too small. It is often best to paint a small space intensely. OH, and don't be afraid to use color, you can always paint it over if you don't like it. Take a risk it's what life is about.

Thanks, Jessica! Click here to enjoy the Rust Designs site and buy up some of her fab wares.

USING YOUR WALLS: Wallpaper + Molding + Paint + Art Gallery

I am loving the look of the very stylized wall. Sure, there's a lot going on here but it works and works well. The addition of the molding to create two distinct areas on the wall create a strong visual cue. I like the color and pattern combo and, of course, that fab wall gallery.

have a lovely weekend...

have a good one! I'll be relaxing here.

xo

thank you!

I had a great time at the first Blog Out Loud event last night! A big thank you again to the lovely panelists and the great group that joined in the event with some great questions.

SMALL VASE, BIG FLOWERS

Yes - what a nice visual impact!?! Loving fresh roses from the farmers market placed in a few small bud vases.

missing domino? What Home Magazines Are You Reading Now?

I sure am. While I (thankfully) have tons of old issues saved to flip through, I miss the colorful whimsy and accessible sophistication the magazine offered. I'd love to know what you are reading and why? I need a boost of magazine inspiration.

NEW WALLPAPER FROM MARIMEKKO

Loving loving loving this new wallpaper from Marimekko. I really am happy with the resurgence of wallpaper over the last few years, available now in terrific and relevant patterns and color combinations. I love the idea of wallpapering one accent walll in a small space. It gives the room an anchor and dimension. Click here to check out the fab selection available Always Mod, the 1st US retailer to carry the products.

GUESTING OVER AT RE-NEST, AT's GREEN SITE

I am doing a little blogging over at re-nest this week. re-nest is Apartment Therapy's dedicated green site which highlights abundant design for green homes. My post today covers the fab green designs of Danny Seo as he makes over an actress's West Hollywood abode. {featured in this month's O Magazine}. The transformation is incredible and the color addition is pretty breathtaking. Click here to check out Re-nest.

COLOR POP BY PROXIMITY

I love this set up of fab black bust and lovely pick flowers. By simply placing a bunch of colorful bulbs next to a home decor accent, you are providing a compliment to the piece just by proximity. Pretty!

loving. living. small. chats with Sixx Design

I had the pleasure of e-meeting the design duo behind Sixx Design, Bob and Cortney Novogratz. Tackling design projects in Manhattan, the creative couple develop and design unique and eclectic spaces and turn "funky into fabulous". With the launch of their new design book, Downtown Chic, design lovers and small space dwellers can catch a glimpse into Sixx Design's interesting and design inspiring world of sophistication meets bohemian style.

New York is full of small space dwellers. When you are taking on small space projects, what are the main things you consider?
The key to design of small spaces is to make it as clutter free as possible yet not lose a personal style. Make sure the furniture is in scale with the room and hide as much junk as you can. Small spaces tend to be more comfortable so always keep that feel.


Your first book, Downtown Chic, was just released. {Congrats!!} How was working on this project and how did you pick the spaces to include?
The book chronicles all our big projects from our first house to last year.


What are your best tips on creating a focal point in a small space?
We love fleamarket finds! So your focal point should be something you love and no one else has. Our favorite pieces were not expensive.


What has been your craziest project? Was there a time when you considered not working on it? What inspired you to take it on?
We twice have been hired for big celebrities and walked away from the jobs ...never work for someone that you have to answer to their 'people".


What are the things in your own house that make it a home?
Our black and white photo wall of our large extended family and relatives.


Thanks, Sixx Design! Click here to check out Downtown Chic.

SMALL SPACE LIVING MEETS FUNCTION Every Day Items Double Their Use

I often talk about reconsidering the use of furniture and decor in small spaces, highlighting pieces that can double or triple as a function in your space. (This also includes actual rooms.) I love this photo of a glass and a vase holding flatware. Simple idea, simple to do and looks organized while providing a little visual cue. {via Ellemania}

Blog Out Loud Amazing Response!

WOW!!!

I am overwhelmed with the wonderful response for the Blog Out Loud event this Thursday!!! Many of you lovely readers are attending and we have lots in store. Aside from the fab panel and great dialogue, we are giving away 2 amazing door prizes, including a design consultation with super talented designer, Kelly Van Patter and a vintage print donated by Vanessa De Vargas. {thanks, ladies!!!} We also have 50 goody bags to give away at the door that include gifts from ferm living, Urbanic and Patio Culture. Oh la la!!!

I must thank the following lovelies for sweet mentions of the upcoming event.

Franki of Life in a Venti Cup

Cassie of Coco + Kelley

Apartment Therapy

Jonathan Lo of Happy Mundane

Richele Silva of Richie Designs

Vanessa De Vargas of Turquoise

Audrey Woollen of Urbanic Paper

Kelly Van Patter of Kelly Green Design

Christiana Coop of ferm living

Karla Stevens of Patio Culture

Kim Valle of On The Web with Kim Valle

Jessica of Black White Yellow

and lovely co-founder, Megan of Beach Bungalow 8

For more info on the event, click here.

And check out the Blog Out Loud blog right here.

xo and have a great weekend!!!