Brittany Stiles

California Gift Show

2012-02-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

I tried to post my progress of visual merchandising for the California Gift Show on Twitter and instagram, but here is a more complete documentation of the exhibit hall via my iPhone camera and its handy filter apps. During the Gift Show, the 2nd floor is full of exhibitor booths featuring all kinds of cool product. If you aren't a retailer who attends the show, many people wonder what the "gift" show is all about. The best way I know how to describe it is anything that doesn't fall into the categories of traditional clothing, food, or furniture, can be found at the gift show. It is where wholesalers bring their new product to show retailers, specifically more boutique type shops.

Beckman's is a handcrafted show that exhibits at the Ca Gift Show. It is for creative and artistic handmade wholesalers looking to connect with retail establishments. The exhibit hall is full of Beckman's participants, and I was given a few of those companies to work with to use their product for my displays in the lobby area. In the photos above, you can see that I had everything from hand made pottery to dog collars. It was such a fun mix of product!

Not gonna lie, it's a bit of a challenge to design and install a space like this. The ceilings are high and the space between the elevators is pretty wide. The space needed to feel inviting to make people want to get off the elevators, and my own personal requirement was for it to feel fun and cheery. At the same time the space couldn't be too cluttered or crowded because there is a lot of traffic in this space during the show and people need to be able to move around easily and the product had to be displayed in a way that it wouldn't impede walking paths or get pushed or bumped on to the floor.

Canopies seem to be my go to for an easy but big impact these days (see post here). Although they take some time to install, it really is a pretty easy project. The canopy was perfect for this particular project because it added a lot of drama to the space without getting in the way.

Stay tuned for the photos of the displays that I designed and installed on the other floors for the gift show. I was so happy to have my photographer Stacey Sutherland take professional photos for me and I can't wait to share them with you!

featured product // J. Johnson & Co., cdd Silhouettes, Nell & Mary, Hilary Lamon, Jackpots!

Master Bedroom

2012-02-04T00:44:00.000-08:00

The highlight of my week was completing this master bedroom install for one of my clients in Orange County. They aren't really the type to pick out that Navajo print used for their bed cover on their own, but that's what they have me for! They love neutrals and soothing tones, but I encouraged them add in this one punch of color and pattern to give the room a little personality.

I love love love accessories. These small details can make or break a room. When I do an install and my client sees the room before it is properly accessorized, they are often underwhelmed. No matter how beautiful and expensive the upholstery is, or how exotic the wood on the coffee table may be...without interesting artwork and thoughtful accessories, the space feels sterile and unfinished. My number one favorite accessory if you couldn't tell from the photos above...books. My motto has become, "When in doubt, stack up some books."

I suppose my love of bookcases is probably a result of my love of books. They are such amazing avenues to display collections of anything. Built-in, leaning, open, wood, metal, you name it, I'm all about bookcases.

I have the best clients. I love collaborating with them on their homes and designing rooms that neither of us would have come up with on our own.

Cool Sneaks

2012-01-08T01:09:00.000-08:00

I came across these cool Nike sneaks today and now I'm pretty sure I need the girl version. Available at J. Crew, where they really have down that whole classy / casual vibe that I love so much.

Let's Build a Room / 01

2012-01-07T13:42:00.000-08:00

2012 is (hopefully) going to be full of getting back to basics. There's something about putting a room together that puts a huge smile on my face. And as it is my profession, as well as my passion, I'm going to stay more focused on developing myself as a designer and sharing this growth with you throughout the year.

Soon I will be sharing with you some of my favorite projects that I completed in 2011, but I'm also going to start putting virtual rooms together specifically for my design journal. Here is the first installment: a room inspired by the artwork of Greek artist Konstantin Kakanias found here.

Lately I've been interested in single rooms that serve mutliple purposes, such as: a family room with a craft corner or game table, an office with a space for client meetings, or in this case a living room with a small work area. Learning how to find pieces that work together to create these multi-functional spaces is especially important for those of us living in smaller spaces, such as studio apartments, or a home with only one living space.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9

Ink & Paper

2012-01-05T10:29:00.000-08:00

January consists of getting the visual displays ready for the California Gift Show and splitting my time between Orange County and downtown Los Angeles. (Not to mention that my favorite TV shows are coming back from the winter break.) That doesn't leave a whole lot of time for me to find great blog content, so I get really excited when someone (in this case my little brother, thanks Jeff!) emails me something that they know I will love and that I can in turn post about.

I almost started tearing up when Gary says, "couldn't pay the bill". I love that he loves paper enough to continue running a business that obviously doesn't have a very big pay off. I place a lot of value on unique paper and letterpress printing; this video makes me want to run out and support these 2 unique businesses. Come to think of it, I actually am due for new business cards and stationery...

McManus & Morgan Inc.

Aardvark Letterpress

My Definition of Classic

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

There are certain things that were never in style, contrary to popular belief (Lay-Z-Boy recliners, carpeted living rooms, those miniature backpacks circa 1995). Then there are other things that are super cool one minute, and then so out of date the next (gray stained wood flooring, glass back splash tile, perms, anything from Z Gallerie). And lastly, there are things that were fabulous 50 plus years ago that are still just as fabulous today (marble, Mid-Century design, exposed cabinet hinges, chesterfield sofas, painted and non-painted brick) . As an interior designer, I feel like it is my responsibility to know the difference when specifying furnishings for my clients. While it's okay to add a little bit of trendy here and there, I like to keep it to things that can easily and inexpensively be swapped out if that fad fades in the next year or so (e.g. pillows, table top accessories, accent tables and chairs). I try to specify classic elements for the main pieces in a space to keep the look sophisticated and just a little bit timeless.

Every time I see a photo of Hans Wegner's wishbone chair (designed in 1944) I always think about how classic it looks. Definitely a chair that will never go out of style; it fits perfectly into any modern setting, or throw it in to a traditional space to mix things up.

top / middle / bottom

Art Is Always Inspiration

2012-01-03T23:54:00.000-08:00

I came across a lot of interesting artists while cruising through the MOMA in NYC, many of which were new to me. Every time I visit a new exhibit in a museum or gallery, visit a new webpage, or pick up a new art book...it seems like there is another noteworthy artist that I want to catalog away in my mind. Each of the artists that catch my eye are talented and unique in his/her own way and I try so hard to remember their distinct style and technique, along with their name and country of origin. There are so many to keep track of that it is near impossible for me to remember every single artist that I admire. Thankfully I have a camera phone and internet bookmarks to help keep them all straight.

1 Ben Vautier / 2 Lazlo Moholy-Nagy / 3 Niele Toroni / 4 Cy Twombly

A Christmas Note

2011-12-25T22:50:00.000-08:00

I'm so sad to see Christmas go. I love having life focus around the birth of Jesus Christ in all of the different forms that we choose to celebrate this time of year. From Christmas carols, to crafts and decorations, to service projects and everyone having goodwill toward men.

Christmas day for me has consisted of spending all day with my family going to church, changing back into our PJs, then opening presents, eating our traditional Christmas breakfast, taking our Christmas naps, and waking up to devour an amazing homemade apple pie. Now we're all watching Home Alone (my personal favorite) while I do a little net surfing, which is when I came across this very cool artwork by Christopher Broyles. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did and merry Christmas to you all!

Christmas in a Duffy Boat

2011-12-23T11:11:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas, my brothers, my parents, and my aunt joined my sisters and I in Orange County, instead of us all making the trek up to Northern California. I appointed myself chair of Christmas activities so that would wouldn't just end up sitting around night after night watching Hallmark movies together. Although that is good family bonding, we laugh a lot harder at ourselves and at each other when we are doing some type of adventurous activity.

I'm not sure if a Duffy boat in the canals of Long Beach count as adventurous, but it sure beat Hallmark movies when it came to making Christmas memories. My brother captained our vessel as 10 of us cruised around Naples island and looked at all of the Christmas pretty while sipping our hot cocoa. This satisfied my mother's need to see a ton of Christmas lights and we seriously had the best time. A "must do" holiday activity for anyone within a 50 mile radius.

image of long beach harbor during Christmas found here

Homemade Gifts

2011-12-22T03:02:00.000-08:00

I've seen terrariums around quite a bit recently and it got me thinking about what a fun homemade gift it would make for Christmas. It seems every year that there are many people, in addition to best friends and family, for whom I want to show my love and appreciation. I decided early on that I wanted to give something a little more interesting and lasting than a plate of cookies for these special individuals. Enter the Christmas terrarium; cost effective, easy and fun to create, low maintenance, and adds a little bit of life to the receiver's home.

First, round up your containers. Any glass container will work, I purchased all of mine from local thrift stores. Then add a layer of coarse sand or small pebbles. This provides a drainage area to prevent overwatering. Next, sprinkle a thin coverage of active charcoal (fish tank aisle of pet store) to prevent the water from stagnating, which will cause your plants to rot (bad news). After the charcoal, add a layer of moss. The moss keeps the soil from crumbling into the pebbles.

I purchased a variety of inexpensive succulents from Home Depot. I love the way they look and they are also really hard to kill. Finally, every good terrarium needs a kitchy figurine. These nutcrackers were perfect to give my terrariums a Christmas twist. I added tags with a personalized note and finished them off with a simple red ribbon.

Holiday Style / No. 3

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Why is everything old so much cooler than anything brand new? All of these ingredients for a perfectly retro Christmas were found on Etsy.

shepherd / tags / mugs / ornaments / santa mug / wood letters / santa tags

Art Worthy of a Bulletin Board

2011-12-20T16:36:00.000-08:00

I'm attracted to any wall full of art, but lately it's been specifically bulletin board style; held up with pins and tape. Since I've been shooting with my new (old) Polaroid camera, I have a lot of little photos that I want to display and the quickest and easiest solution for that seems to be a bulletin board. I've had bulletin boards in my bedroom and office for as long as I can remember. They seem to be something that will never go out of style. As I cleared mine off recently and started anew with my Polaroids, I'm really trying to edit this time, and only display images and art that are near to my heart and really inspire me.

top / middle / bottom

Holiday Style / No. 2

2011-12-17T00:19:00.000-08:00

felt ornaments / stocking / cards / outfit / door / ornaments / nativity

Checkin' It Off

2011-12-16T23:12:00.000-08:00

What's on your next travel to do list?

skating 1 / 2 / de Kooning / Gray's Papaya / Aero Studio lamp / Thomas O'Brien drawing / Blogshop 1 & 2

New York

2011-12-15T23:55:00.000-08:00

I just got home from New York and like always, that city left me wanting more. Being there at Christmas time made it even more magical. And Blogshop....can't say enough good things. Angela and Bri are such fanstatic, talented, stylish ladies and I feel so lucky to have been taught by them. My Photoshop skills improved about a million times and I had so much fun! I can't wait to implement everything that I learned into my blog.

images by Angela taken at Blogshop

PS Don't forget that my holiday table giveaway ends tomorrow around noon. Check it out here to enter!

A Very Merry Giveaway!

2011-12-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas blog readers! As tempted as I was to do something completely outside the box and go for a navy and hot pink themed Christmas, I kept getting drawn to something more classic, simple, and sophisticated (see inspiration from previous post here). Anyone can easily put this table together with the below ingredients from your local craft store, but for one lucky reader, you won't have to because I'll be boxin' it up and shippin' it to ya!

I wanted to do something fun for this special time of year, so we're celebrating by doing my first ever giveaway here on the blog! To enter to win this holiday table design for 4, simply enter a comment below and tell me your favorite Christmas memory, or simply your favorite thing about this time of year. (Mine would be sailing around the Florida Keys last Christmas on a very questionable boat; that memory will definitely be hard to top.) To enter you must first leave a comment, but for additional entries you can following me on twitter here, and like my Facebook page here. I'll be selecting a winner at noon on Friday (December 16) and then packing it up and shipping it ASAP so that you have time to enjoy it before Christmas day. Sound good?

Here's what you'll get:

(4) red ribbed plate chargers

(4) smaller clear vases

(2) larger clear vases

berries, cinnamon sticks, twigs/branches

(4) gift boxes (to be filled with your own creation, personalized for your guests)

(4) red glittered initials to act as place cards and tree ornaments (I love when things serve a dual purpose...)

*Note: winner is to request the letters of their choice to coordinate with guests' names

(4) speckled feathers

twine

(1) table runner

(4) white cloth napkins

**does not include silverware, plates, goblets

Good luck and merry Christmas!!

WINNER UPDATE: I wanted the drawing to be totally fair (because a lot of times I think these types of things are rigged), so I assigned everyone a number for their comment, then you were given an additional number for a Facebook like, and an additional number for a Twitter follow. That totaled numbers 1-54. I went here and the number that came up was 23, Rebecca!!

Congrats! Let me know what glitter initials you want me to send you and I'll ship it out tomorrow! Merry Christmas!!

It's Friday

2011-12-09T15:28:00.001-08:00

Have a great weekend! Now go out and buy yourself some festive tights.

image by Chloe Aftel

Karen Alweil Studio

2011-12-09T14:57:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite showrooms at the LA Mart is Karen Alweil Studio. She has a lot of cool product for people of all ages, but she has some especially adorable stuff for kids. One of the best parts about being the visual merchandiser for the CA Gift Show is that half of my job is shopping.

The Selby / Perfectly Collected

2011-12-07T16:48:00.001-08:00

I was searching around The Selby for inspiration (one of the best places to find it for collected/interesting interiors) and I came across the home of Kate & Andy Spade. Their colleciton of unique art is incredible and it's important to me to have a home filled with furnishings and accessories that one has collected over the years, as this one does so beautifully.

Holiday Style / No. 1

2011-12-07T03:49:00.001-08:00

I thought it would be fun to feature different Christmas aesthetics, each festive in their own way. This is the first in the series - for simple yet sophisticated holiday enthusiasts.

outfit / fair trade reindeer ornament / tree in jar / berry branch card holder / organic wreath / feather wrapping / snowflake lantern

Simple and Elegant Styling

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-08:00

A modern day Breakfast at Tiffany's meets Sounds of Music? There's probably a much better film association that I could make, but it's late, and as much as I'd like to be, I'm not much of a film buff. Even still, I'm enjoying bookmarking more and more fashion styling and photography that catches my eye. This particular shoot was photographed by Alasdair McLellan and styled by Suzanne Koller. So well done.

images

Piñata Celebration

2011-12-05T22:27:00.001-08:00

The stress of completing these 22 window for the California Gift Show really hit me today. When it's all done I think I might celebrate with one of these guys.

And let's not forget the festive blindfold...

confetti filled piñatas and blindfold from Confetti Systems

Getting to Know My New Polaroid

2011-12-05T13:23:00.001-08:00

On Friday night I received an old Polaroid 680 camera as a late birthday present and a bunch of Impossible Project film. This is probably one of the coolest presents that I've ever received. Yes...I picked it out myself, but still. For those who follow me on twitter, you know that this past weekend I was in the wedding of two close friends. I love weddings and it was the perfect time to test out my new camera. We decided we were just going to shoot for fun with my first 8 exposures (each exposure costs about $3), but after this I'm going to be a little more choosy with my photos and really try to create works of art. Hopefully some will be good enough to share on the blog. Enjoy my practice shots for now!

Styling / The Story of 2 Chairs

2011-12-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

These are some photos from my first attempt at collaborating with a photographer to style something specifically for my blog. Steven Pereira was so fun to work with as we moved around these two little chairs in the grasses of Newport's Back Bay.

pink chair / Goodwill
gold damask chair / TJ Maxx
coat rack / Urban
fabric from Lee Jofa, LuLu DK, Schumacher, Kravet

Gold Sparklies

2011-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure what's gotten into me, but I'm all about sequins and glitter right now. I usually don't gravitate toward a lot of sparkle but I guess times are changing. Here are a few things that have caught my eye recently, and just in time for the holidays!

Ban.do / Anthropologie / pillow / flats / garland / lights

2 Little Things

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

here and here

Eccentric Styling

2011-11-29T23:46:00.001-08:00

This girl is sort of creepy which makes the styling of these photos all the more amazing. It's time I added a little bit of edge to this little blog of mine.

Photographs by the very talented Silja Magg.

Woohoo!

2011-11-29T23:00:00.000-08:00

Today I became an aunt! Congrats to my sister and bro-in-law!

image

Inspiration Board / CA Gift Show

2011-11-28T11:10:00.001-08:00

Here is my inspiration board for the January California Gift Show displays. The goal: to be a lot hipper than the ones that I did for July's show. I also want all of the floors (there are about 11) to be cohesive in their aesthetic. Displays need to be up at the LA Mart by January 18 and there are 2 windows on each of the 11 floors. That's 22 windows folks, which means a VERY busy December/January for me!

one / two / three / four / five / six / seven / eight

4 Things / Jelle Martens

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

Diggin the graphic artwork by Jelle Martens. Full collection of works found here.

Styling / Fall Picnic

2011-11-26T22:48:00.001-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege of teaming up with photographer Chantel Marie Tripp to style a photo shoot. I wanted to do a fall picnic, but fall in Newport usually consists of "brisk" 75 degree weather and the beach. So why fight it, right?

I've styled interiors, windows, weddings and holiday tables, but this was the first time I had ever styled a photo shoot with people...from the models, to the clothes, to the scene, to the props, to the location...and I have to say, I had an absolute blast.

It helps that Chantel is an incredible photographer and amazing to work with. She has a way of interacting with people that makes them come out of their shell and appear as though they are in love, even if they've only met once before (ahem, ahem). Not only is she amazing with people, but I love the way she sees the world and captures that with her camera. Girlfriend has a serious artistic eye and mad photography skills.

See more photos on Chantel's blog here.

And a major shout out to Kelli and Aaron for being spectacular models and such amazing sports. Seriously kids...add these photos to your modeling portfolios! And Erin, mad props on Kelli's make up...are you for hire?

4 Things / Black Friday

2011-11-25T03:11:00.001-08:00

A little interior inspiration for a festive black Friday.

1. Courtney Cox's Malibu home / 2. black & white striped bathroom / 3. mid-century chair / 4. Franz Kline

To you and yours...

2011-11-24T13:41:00.001-08:00

Why yes, I was a cheerleader in high school.

This Thanksgiving I am incredibly thankful to the following.

1. God. For everything. All the good that I get to enjoy, and all the bad from which I can grow and learn. / 2. My parents. For their love and support. For pretending like I am the most talented person on the planet, even though I know it's not true by a long shot. / 3. All 4 of my siblings who double as my best friends. / 4. Kelli & Erin. Since your move to Southern California my life hasn't been this fun since, well, ever. / 5. Apple. My iPhone 4S has seriously changed my life. / 6. Melissa & Brian. For checking off one of my New Year's resolutions by making me an aunt in 2011. / 7. Too many designers and bloggers to name. You all give me daily inspiration to be a better and more interesting designer and blogger.

shirt / final touch
dress / h&m
socks / I've had them so long I can't remember
heels / nordstrom / classiques entier

A Fun Thanksgiving Ensemble

2011-11-23T00:23:00.001-08:00

I know this little outfit probably wouldn't fly in a lot of cold weather places this time of year, but in honor of celebrating my first ever Thanksgiving in Southern California, I thought I would put together something a little less bundled up.

1. top / 2. blazer / 3. pants / 4. heels / 5. bracelet / 6. necklace / 7. scarf

Thanksgiving Table / Flea Market Style

2011-11-22T22:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I really wanted to post up my Thanksgiving table design before Thanksgiving this year. It may only be one day early, but before is before, right? This table is brought to you by the Goldenwest swap meet. I went last Saturday morning and snatched up as much granny chic decor as I could find. I didn't really have a plan before I went, I just kept an open mind as I dug through some very questionable boxes of random linens.

When I shop, it's always more about the character and feeling of the items, rather than making sure everything matches exactly. For my florals, I went with anything that had an outdoor autumn feel in color and shape. For a finishing touch I added some cranberries and a few gourds and made placecards based on a design found here.

So there you have it.. a perfectly used, slightly messy table, with possibly a few too many vases...just how I like it.

PS Still working on this photography thing and slowly becoming willing to accept that I will never be able to be a great photographer and designer, there just aren't enough hours in the day. If anyone knows anyone who is interested in collaborating and shooting styled shoots in the OC area...give me a holler!

4 Things / Baby Cribs

2011-11-22T00:02:00.001-08:00

My nephew's due date was today, but in true Stiles' fashion, I suppose he's going to be a little late. It's been fun helping my sister with the nursery and trying to find the best products out there while still working with a tight budget. After all of this baby hunting there is one, no two, things that I've learned about babies.

1. They need a LOT of stuff.
2. Much of that stuff is not what I would call aesthetically pleasing. (My nice way of saying it's ugly. Neon colored cartoon characters just aren't my thing.)

However, I did a little searching and found 4 cribs that I approve of.

1. Ikea / 2. Restoration / 3. Oeuf / 4. Stokke

Rainy Day Attire

2011-11-21T00:01:00.001-08:00

So Cal is a bit of a late bloomer when it comes to fall, but things are really starting to shape up around here. Which is good because let's face it, it's almost winter. It rained all day, it was freezing, and it was overcast. Yay fall! I played in the rain and took a couple of photes.

Wait my shoes are cut off...take another one.

Much better.

coat / thrifted
sweater / Piko 1988
jeans / Hudson
tights / Urban
boots / Born Crown

Blind Pilot / El Rey

2011-11-18T13:32:00.001-08:00

Going to see BP tonight at the ER in LA with my BF. (That last one can stand for best friend or boy friend depending on the day.)

Zara / FB

2011-11-18T11:11:00.001-08:00

From the November look book.

The colors are perfectly fall and I love the mix and match of patterns.

snagged from Zara's facebook page

West Elm / Beverly Blvd / Thomas O'Brien

2011-11-18T10:44:00.001-08:00

Speaking of Thomas O'Brien...the design world was abuzz this week with the new West Elm location opening on Beverly Blvd. I'm a Thomas O'Brien super fan, and he designed the new space which opened yesterday. I can't wait to visit.

A few of my favorite bloggers are helping West Elm throw an opening party on December 15. I'll be in NYC, so I won't be able to make it, but you can get the deets on Design Love Fest and leave a comment for a chance to win 5 things from West Elm, here.

images here & here

Malin Elmlid / FVF

2011-11-18T10:38:00.001-08:00

This is Malin Elmlid. A pretty classy lady from Sweden who now resides in Berlin.

She reminds me that just because I don't have space for a garden, that doesn't mean I shouldn't start growing and collecting plants. Look how happy they are inside? Even just small potted plants can add so much life to an interior.

Such a pretty and collected vignette (below). Doesn't have a contrived feeling, which is what I strive for when styling and designing interiors. Sometimes I am more successful than others.

I'm always interested in peoples' kitchens. Because it's such a functional space, I love to see how others organize and display.

I'm all about bookcases. Messy ones, organized ones, color coordinated, you name it. The whole Kindle thing kind of scares me because I don't ever want bookcases to become obsolete. They are just way too beautiful.

More and more of my favorite sources for interior inspiration are becoming stylish, interesting and eclectic peoples' homes who haven't hired a designer. There is so much personality and interest in spaces that are collected throughout their life (long or short). This is something that I wish to give each of my clients, but I have to admit that it's difficult a lot of the time. It requires a lot of effort on the part of the client as well, and not just the designer. They have to be willing to let you in to their world quite a bit and do a lot of homework and looking on their own. The client also has to be willing to let go, and let some of their lives be on display in their home even if that means a little bit of organized chaos.

I remember Thomas O'Brien talking about this a year ago when I went to hear him speak at the LA Mart. He said that jobs where clients send their assistant with a giant budget to work with him to complete the house don't interest him. He said that he requires a lot from his clients and that that is what produces the most successful outcome.

I found Malin here, through Freunde Von Freunden. I think he's sort of like a German Selby, and frankly, who doesn't love the Selby?

The Selby / Zara

2011-11-16T16:53:00.001-08:00

Here is what we call a win-win. A Selby film for Zara. You can't tell me that even just a little part of you doesn't want to be this girl.

Vintage Dress

2011-11-15T12:23:00.001-08:00

I have been reading design blogs for a while now. About a year ago I started to get really bored with reading post after post on pretty rooms or pretty clothes by famous designers. It is fun to read and write about the latest and greatest, I do it too, but lately what I have found the most inspiring is seeing what the bloggers themselves have created - whether that be a craft project, a room, a meal, a photograph, or an outfit. Even if it isn't my style, and even if I don't necessarily love it, I still find those posts the most fun to read.

I have been prepping and planning to do more of that here on my blog. I realized one day that as an interior designer, I'm not going to be able to post new projects every day, or even every week, as projects take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to be completed. This means that I have to do more blog specific designing. As a result, I am working on styling shoots just for my blog and going all out for dinner parties (stay tuned for Thanksgiving), showers (see my sister's baby shower here), and friends' weddings (new posts coming soon), and also work on my photography and painting skills (actually, I don't think I can call them skills yet, more like hobbies that I'm not very good at). This way, not only do I get to share more original creative content on a regular basis, but it keeps my creativity flowing; constantly pushing me to try new things.

All of this brings me here, to my first style/fashion post. I have friends who borrow my clothes on a regular basis, so even though I get bored of my closet frequently, I guess there must be some good stuff in there. I don't consider myself a fashionista, but nonetheless, I LOVE clothes, almost more than furniture, and I always find it interesting to see what people are wearing.

dress: vintage (picked up on 4th street in Long Beach)

shoes: dolce vita

shirt: quiksilver

glasses: chanel

photos via my iPhone

Goldenwest Flea

2011-11-12T12:54:00.001-08:00

I didn't end up buying anything, but I did get to work on my iPhone photography skills. The flea market is the best place to find interesting subject matter.

Photography

2011-11-10T18:17:00.001-08:00

I feel like I've been blogging about photography a lot lately, or at least thinking about it a lot. Since I've already mastered interiors (totally kidding), I figure it's time to hone another creative skill and since photography really intrigues me, here we go...

When I see amazing pictures with interesting light and beautiful colors and texture, I think 3 things:

1. I want to take pictures like that.
2. How much of this is edited and how much of it is real photography?
3. Does editing count as real photography?

Tonight I busted out my book on my little Canon slr and started reading. I changed some settings around and took a few photos, one of which was of the bananas and ice cream scoop in my kitchen. I also downloaded a new app for my new iPhone 4s called Camera Bag which has several filters to choose from that you can apply to your photos.

(Top to bottom, left to right) The first photo is an iPhone photo using the silver filter, photo 2 is using the instant filter, photo 3 is from my Canon and edited in Photoshop, and photo 4 is from my Canon unedited. I think it's alarming when my favorites are taken from the iPhone and edited with filters at the touch of a button. Although I like the way they look, I don't feel like I can call that real photography.

Or can I?

Polaroids

2011-11-10T14:59:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure how it happened, but I've spent the better part of this week researching Polaroids. Polaroid pictures, Polaroid photographers, Polaroid cameras, film...

Sad news: In 2008 Polaroid stopped producing Polaroid instant film.

Happy news: The Impossible Project saved the last Polaroid production plant for integral instant film in the Netherlands and through a lot of research and experimentation, they now produce new unique instant films that have saved instant photography from extinction. So cool.

The work of Polaroid photographer Grant Hamilton, below. I'm a fan.

The work of Polaroid photographer Jenn Gotch, below. How in the world does she make a messy kitchen look so good?

Max Wanger, who I've posted about before, takes some really amazing Polaroids. The guys is a photography genius, what can I say?

top image

Magical Piers

2011-11-10T14:31:00.001-08:00

So my new photographer friend Chantel is coming in to town for a couple of days and we're actually going to do the fall picnic at the beach. I went down to the peninsula today to scope an exact location and I fell in love with the underside of the pier. In the summer, the piers are always mobbed with people and unfortunately a lot of trash, so I generally steer clear. But walking down there today in perfectly overcast weather with just a few post season tourists, it was one of the prettier views of Newport that I have ever experienced.

one, two, three, last photo via my iPhone

Fall Picnic

2011-11-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

I acquired a really cool vintage picnic basket at the flea market and have been wanting to style a photo shoot around it. Living in Southern California, the days that it actually feels or looks like fall are few and far between, but I really love the idea of a fall picnic. Maybe I'll use these images as inspiration, but take it to the beach instead.

one, two, three, four, five, six

Glamping

2011-11-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

My best friends and I are really into extending birthdays into the weekend, and for mine we decided to go camping. It is one of our absolute favorite things to do together, even if it is just for one night at a campsite 40 minutes away.

I'm new to this term called "glamping", a merging of glamorous camping. It isn't something that I've done before, or realistically probably ever will do. I generally sleep in whatever tent has room for me in a sleeping bag on the ground. Showering is rare. However, we do always manage to eat some pretty gourmet meals (bbq chicken and strawberry spinach salad with Dutch oven peach cobbler for dessert).

However, if I ever do become a glamper, this is what I imagine...

I would sleep in a place like this...

And I would definitely be wearing something like this...

In all seriousness though, I really do think a pair of duck boots are in order this season. Happy glamping!

one, two, three, four, five, six

Turning 29

2011-11-04T14:00:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday and all I really wanted to do was look at art and eat good food, and that I did.

A good friend of mine (witty, cute, lawyer, single), who shall remain nameless (due to the fact that he called in sick to take the day off work and doesn't want what he really did getting back to his bosses), came with me to downtown LA to walk around the city and visit the MOCA Grand Ave. and the Geffen Contemporary. We grabbed lunch at Pete's Cafe (I highly recommend the Thai spiced turkey burger), and our very cool waiter gave me delicious bread pudding on the house, complete with a birthday candle (I wished for a loft in the city). We then got to sit in some birthday traffic as we drove back down to Orange County to enjoy a delicious dinner made by my amazing sisters, where we joined a few more of my close friends.

It was the perfect birthday and I'd say 29 is off to a fantastic start!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-29T13:44:00.001-07:00

I keep track of Rue magazine and the very talented Rue girls via facebook, twitter, and blogs. When I saw them post photos of last year's Ace Hotel Halloween party, I knew I had to re-create the show stopping giraffe worn by their friend Angela that appeared in all of the SmileBooth photos.

Here are some pics of my interpretation of Angela's giraffe costume and some of our Halloween antics. It was such an amazing Halloween weekend, I'm sad to see it go. Turns out everything is more fun dressed up as a giraffe. Who knew?

Day 2

2011-10-29T13:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday afternoon we wrapped day 2 of shooting various design projects around Orange County. I had so much fun with my lovely photographer Stacey Sutherland and my beautiful assistant and best friend, Kelli. Thanks for a great 2 days ladies! Check back for the finished photos.

Photo Shoot

2011-10-27T20:43:00.001-07:00

Photo shoot days are my favorite. These are a couple behind the scenes shots from todays's shoot.

Designer Flea Market

2011-10-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Join me next Saturday, November 5, for the designer flea market in Newport. While shopping for clients as a designer, one can't help but collect a lot of fabric, furniture, lighting and accessories along the way. Sooner or later reality hits as we realize that it's time to purge. The result is a fabulous designer flea market, full of designers and their handpicked wares. Do stop by and say hello!

More info here.

Fall Baby Shower

2011-10-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my oldest sister and I threw a baby shower for our other sister and my first nephew. Being that it's my parents first grandchild, and just a whole new life in general, it's kind of a big deal. My sisters are my favorite people to design and decorate for. I don't know what I would do without them, so being able to impart my love of design to honor them is one of my favorite things. These are some photos from our outdoor soiree.

Melissa requested a fall theme (she's a bit fall obsessed and loves all things pumpkin). Since it was a baby shower I still wanted to keep it bright and pretty, so I took the yellows, browns, and oranges, and added in some cranberry and brought the whole thing together with some fall gourds, pomegranates, flower arrangements, and our homemade canopy over the patio.

How To:

I purchased the flowers from the wholesale mart and arranged them using floral foam in low slender containers that I found at Ikea - they were the perfect height to not block lunch conversation.

To create the canopy we first measured the width and length of the space. We went to the garment district in downtown LA to select our fabric. When making temporary craft projects I always use clothing fabric because it is a lot cheaper than home fabrics. We purchased each of our 6 colors for $3/yard. The length of our patio required 6 widths of 54" wide fabric so we selected 6 different colors and then split them down the middle so that each color would appear twice in the canopy. To add a little something extra we also purchased some coordinating trim. To install, I hired my brother (he works for free) to climb on the latter and hop the fence to staple the fabric to the overhang and then to the fence. It took just a couple of hours to complete and had the biggest impact on the party. It's really fun to see something that colorful in the background of all of our photos of the guests.

I find that the easiest and simplest way to make a pretty food table is to use dishes that are all the same color. White is usually my color of choice and also what is generally on hand, which saves on party costs, so it's a win-win. It also always helps to have a mom and sisters who make really pretty and delicious food.

My sister purchased the gourds from Trader Joes and selected the colors that would coordinate best with the rest of the decor.

So Boho

2011-10-20T01:08:00.000-07:00

Interiors with a bohemian flair encompass a lot of things that I'm loving about design right now...lots of color, cozy furnishings, a nod to Indian or Aztec patterns and color, and a gereral mix of styles.

one, two, three, four, five

One Kings Lane Art Sale

2011-10-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

OKL is having a fantastic art sale today. There is a great variety of pieces, so head on over here and check it out. If you are one of my clients, I'll be around today if you want a second opinion before buying.

Happy art shopping!

Knitta Please

2011-10-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

Get more information on knit installations by Magda Sayeg here.

Branding

2011-10-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of revamping my design logo, business cards, and website. Thoughts on confetti filled business cards?

Or what about one with curves?

How about the cardboard variety?

confetti, curves, embossing, cardboard

VW

2011-10-14T00:41:00.000-07:00

What is it about these cars that makes them so aesthetically pleasing...

logo, green, blue, white, chartreuse

Painted Textiles

2011-10-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

I'm incredibly inspired by the handpainted watercolor textiles of Lourdes Sanchez.

To view more of these amazing designs, visit LuliSanchez.com.

Custom Upholstery

2011-10-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

One of my absolute favorite parts of a room are the upholstery pieces. I can see a fabric and a sofa and just know instantly that they belong together in a certain space. It comes quickly and easily to me, which is probably why it is one of my favorite components. There is something about creating a custom piece of furniture or re-upholstering an old piece of furniture in a new fabric that brings me so much joy (weird, I know). Because it is so near and dear to my heart, I thought I should introduce you all to my good friend Eddie. He's my go to guy for all of my upholstery needs.

This second video is one that I took when Eddie didn't know I was taping. My sister started asking him questions and he began explaining how he feels about the upholstery process. It's pretty priceless when he starts talking about the love that goes in to a piece.

If you're in the Orange County area, I would highly recommend Pete's Upholstery (Pete is Eddie's "pops") for anything you need done in the realm of upholstery. Just be sure to tell him that I sent you so that he'll give me some sort of kick back in the form of one of his mom's tomales.

I don't have a proper photo yet of the finished custom love seat, but that's her over there on the left.

Lace Lantern

2011-10-10T15:03:00.000-07:00

Whilst meeting with a couple of my really close friends last night to start planning one of their upcoming weddings, fellow bridesmaid Bethany pointed these out to us. I had one of those, that-is-so-cool-why-didn't-I-think-of-that, moments. I'm just glad someone thought of it, because it's genius. Plans to incorporate a few of these guys into the wedding decor are underway.

Find instructions here.

Succulents

2011-10-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

I think I was about 11 when my fascination with Martha Stewart began. I watched her first TV show on Lifetime religiously and asked for a subscription to Living for my 12th birthday. Even at that age I attempted a few of Martha's crafts and decorating ideas, one of which was the succulent wreath. I thought it was one of the coolest things I had ever seen and I remember buying the baby succulents and trying to put the wreath together with my oldest sister. I've honed my crafting skills a lot since then, and thank goodness for that, because our wreath didn't look near as good as Martha's when it was finished.

Sister, what do you say we give it another go? Find the instructions here.

I've been on a succulent kick since a couple of weeks ago when I received a little succulent in a hand potted pot as a favor at my good friend Nancy's wedding. I thought it was one of the more thoughtful and useful favors I have ever received. As I have been giving my little guy lots of sun and a little bit of water, I've been dreaming of planting a full on succulent garden. Here are some photos I am gathering for inspiration.

P.S. If Pinterest and Google image search were in a match up for best place to search photos, Pinterest would win...blindfolded.

wreath, hanging, vertical, garden

Into Aztec

2011-10-07T13:46:00.001-07:00

It started with this fabric from Ralph Lauren...

and snowballed from there...

I'm really loving the revival of Aztec, southwestern prints and textiles. One of my favorite things about design is reinventing outdated styles and right now there are so many great designers creating new spins on this old trend. For me, I actually think it may have started with Gretchen Jones' Project Runway show last year. Never before had southwest been so appealing to me and I have been forever changed and now I can't get enough.

It took some beggging, but I convinced a client of mine to use that Ralph Lauren fabric for part of there bedding in their master bedroom remodel. I assured them that by taking something unexpected and seemingly off-trend and outdated like an Aztec style print and putting it in a modern setting, that is how great and really interesting rooms come about.

fabric, bag,image,dress

Visual Displays: California Gift Show

2011-10-07T00:55:00.001-07:00

These are some photos from the California Gift Show displays that I put together. It was quite possibly the most stressful job I have ever taken on. The task was to create displays on 8 different floors showcasing product from the many different showrooms. The general direction I was given was pretty open ended, but just something that speaks of California. I had big plans, sketches and all, of how each floor was going to display a different well-known local in California. Although the locations would be different I wanted to have a very cohesive design where each of the floors are related.

You can see that I didn't quite get that far. The showrooms are extremely stressed and busy come gift show time and most people aren't too concerned about little old me and the job that I have to do. So, although I had big hopes and dreams, the end result is what you see above; 5 very different schemes, some more closely related to California than others.

California themed or not, I'm just glad I got it all done and a big thanks to all of my family and friends who came to help, or at least visit, during my long hours at the Mart!

Fall Boots

2011-10-06T00:52:00.000-07:00

Fall means that even though I shouldn't be spending money on new boots, I get to buy them anyway. The possibilities for these little guys are endless.

Addicted to Stripes

2011-10-05T23:31:00.000-07:00

I wasn't kidding when I said that striped shirts fit my style to a T. I bought another one today. It might be time for an intervention...

pinterest

Visual Display: Eco Friendly

2011-10-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of photos of the last lobby display that I designed and installed up at the LA Mart. This display had to be up in between returning from a trip and a wedding I was working on and attending, so I ended up sourcing the products, designing, and installing in the matter of one work day. Maybe that's why it looks a bit like a hodge podge mess...

You should have seen me trying to pile these paletts on top of each other by myself...quite a scene. Luckily a friend of mine came to assist shortly thereafter.

*Product highlight: all things eco friendly

*Overall concept: I decided to go with a really rustic, recycled look since it complimented the eco friendly products. I didn't purchase anything new for this display. I gathered pallets from around the Mart and used some old rope that was laying around to tie them together. The moss is also recycled from a previous project.

Sisterly Love

2011-10-04T22:28:00.000-07:00

These are some shots I took of my sister's finished living room, yay! It's actually been done for a while, but I don't think I ever posted these. We started with her sofa and coffee table and then reworked some vintage pieces she already owned, which is always my favorite part. Then we added in some custom pillows, some accessories from various sources, threw in a hide rug, and there you have it. If I had to describe my sister's style it would be reclaimed wood, meets sparkly glam, meets shabby chic, meets sophisticated, meets functional, meets classic with a contemporary flair.

Ebay Find: Classic Old Lawn Chairs

2011-10-04T09:16:00.000-07:00

found here

Me as an outfit

2011-10-03T23:35:00.000-07:00

This one little outfit sums up my fashion style to a T. The not-super-fitted black & white striped shirt, the slightly ruffled skirt, the booties, the bun on top of her head that makes it look like she doesn't care, but really she does, I love it all. This is definitely something I would wear to work, for a night out on the town, or just hanging out at home. Although, I'd probably throw in my tortoise-framed glasses and a gold flea market watch (that doesn't work), and change the black shoes to light brown, just so that it's not so perfect.

from The Podolls

Inspirational Photography

2011-10-01T01:13:00.000-07:00

I've had a recent urge to be more creative. Just designing homes hasn't quite been enough for me so I've been looking for other outlets. I've started painting, styling photo shoots, and I even signed up for Blogshop in NYC come December, but this past week all I have really wanted to do was take really incredible photographs. I get a little depressed when I remember that I don't know how. Shutter speed, f-stop, ISO, exposure, what? And don't get me started on the number of lenses there are to choose from. I really love looking at the work of talented photographers. Truth be told, I've spent at least 6 hours this week just looking at photography websites and blogs. It's the combination of understanding the technical while also having an artistic eye that has me in awe.

Max Wanger is one such photographer. Just look at these photos. It may just be a blurry far away image, but when it tells a story and conveys a feeling, that's what good photography is all about.

In Love

2011-09-30T10:35:00.001-07:00

I'm obsessed with this little building on the peninsula. Every time I pass by I look in the windows and no one is ever there. Inside there are a few random boxes and dolls laying around and it looks like someone has been in the process of moving out for the past month. How amazing would it be to set up shop here? On Wednesday I did the next best thing and staged a photoshoot out front with my new friend and talented photographer Steven Pereira. I can't wait to share the photos!

eBay Find: Mannequin Heads

2011-09-13T23:44:00.001-07:00

Lately I've had a hankering to incorporate a couple of these vintage mannequin heads into some of my decor. So far, none of my clients have gone for it. I can't imagine why.

found here

Never Say Never

2011-09-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

If you were to tell me that I would take 2 months off of blogging only to come back with a post featuring my apartment, I would have never believed you. Not in a million billion years.

Alas...never say never, I suppose.

I moved to the Balboa Peninsula about 7 years ago to a beach apartment that I shared with 4 other girls. I was 21 and just starting school at FIDM. I shared a TINY room and a microscopic closet, but I was about a 20 second walk from the beach, which made it all worth it. After about 9 months in the beach apartment a friend of mine offered me a private room in a townhouse just up Newport Blvd for $300. Yes...$300. For those of you familiar with real estate in the Southern California area, you know that renting a room for that much is basically unheard of.

I finished FIDM about 6 months after moving into the new place and then got my first ever big girl job as a design assistant for a firm in Laguna Beach. 2 years after that I started doing my own thing and haven't looked back since. The plan was never to stay in this little apartment of mine for too long. It seemed like every year I would say, "There's no way I'll be here for another year". At one point back in 2007 I almost didn't sign a deal with DishNetwork because the contract was for a whole year. I only acquiesced when they assured me that they would come and pack and move my service to wherever my new home would be.

My place is 4 bedrooms and I share it with 2 other fabulous and creative girls. The 4th room is my office, and rent is still dirt cheap. Saving so much on living costs and office overhead gave me the freedom to follow my dreams and start my own design firm at such a young age. It has given me the freedom to travel more and buy more shoes, which is why I guess I have stayed so long, even though that was never my intention.

The townhouse is old and has really bad carpet in the living room and chipping linoleum in the kitchen; both which I desperately wish my land lord would replace. We are also rockin' the lovely popcorn ceilings so ubiquitous in the 60's and 70's . The windows are so old and decrepit that if it's windy outside, our drapes still blow even if the window is closed. The list goes on, but I'll stop there. Don't get me wrong, it's not all bad. For instance, we have a really cool double sided brick fireplace separating our living room from the dining room and our landlord let's us paint the walls any color we want. Also, for such an old place, the floor plan is pretty top notch; no weird spaces or proportions of rooms, no awkward diagonal walls.

But the worst confession I have to make about my apartment (which you'll notice from the photo above) is that I have never officially decorated. Because I never thought I was staying for too long, I always just saved my decorating dreams for my "soon to be real home'. You know, the one with hardwood flooring, high ceilings, and beautiful window casings. So here I am, 6.5 years later, a self proclaimed professional designer, and the place that I call home is still full of hand me down furniture and random items that I have collected along the way. I think being able to create beautiful and unique homes for each of my clients every day has satisfied (for now) my design urges. I know that someday soon I'll move away and create a space of my own that looks like a designer showhouse, but for now this is home and I love it just the way it is.

House of Windsor

2011-07-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

Tommorrow is the last day to visit the House of Windsor. I don't care if you have to deal with the craziness that is carmageddon, go anyway! You won't be sorry.

I had the opportunity to spend a few hours there last Saturday as I toured the house and then listened to the panel of designers talk about the process, their inspiration, and ideas behind the 8,300 square foot estate in Brentwood.

A couple of my favorite million dollar decorators were on the panel; Kathryn Ireland (designed the adorable stable) and Martyn Lawrence Bullard (designed the "man cave" above the garage), along with Candace Barnes (master suite), Stephen Block (landscape), Peter Dunham (lady's study and guest suite), Richard Shapiro (great room), Tara Shaw (girl's room and east hall), and of course the fabulous Windsor Smith who not only designed an incredibly beautiful and functional family room, entry hall, and kitchen, but was the founder of the project and architect of the entire home from ground up.

The premise behind the House of Windsor was to design a real home for the real "modern family" and how Windsor sees people living or wanting to live today. This wasn't your average showhouse filled with beautiful furniture, accessories, and wallcovering...although it was most definitely all of those things as well, but it was a house that felt like it had a real family living there already.

Here are some of Windsor's ideas that she shared on the panel of how this project suits the modern family:

The large dining table smack in the middle of the kitchen that seats up to 16 people and also acts as an island. Windsor shared that everyone gravitates toward the kitchen, so she wanted to turn this fact into a beautiful and functional design element - mission accomplished.
There are no walk-in closest anywhere in the house, just beautiful built-in cabinetry to hold clothing, shoes, and other wares. Her thinking behind this was that we all accumulate so much "stuff" that just weighs us down. This "stuff" is then put into a closet and we shut the door so that we don't have to see or think about it. Windsor said that by creating beautiful closet space just for the things we love then everytime we open the doors we will only pull out something we have collected that has meaning and is important to us. By taking square footage away from walk-in closets that house things that we don't need or care about, she was able to add that square footage to the living spaces of the house. Fascinating.
The less is more landscaping gives the house a beautiful rural feel; you'd have no idea that the traffic filled freeways and high rises of LA are just outside the neighborhood. Windsor and Stephen Block collaborated about their vision for the house in terms of the landscaping. The house has a really beautiful yard covered in grass and very minimal on hard-scaping. Stephen brought up the point that many people over hard-scape these days as if they're afraid of, or there is something wrong with, walking on grass. Turns out waking and playing on the grass is quite liberating, you should try it some time.
The family room is multi-functional. Complete with floor to ceiling bookcases, an extra large ottoman for playing games, a bar, and a large table for projects, homework, eating... you name it.
The house was a new construction project built from the ground up, but you'd never know by looking at it. The style of the house and the painted brick coupled with the fact that the house is stunning but isn't overdone made me automatically assume this was a home built in the 60's or 70's that has been remodeled for this project. I was wrong, but it turns out that Windsor purposely built the house to make us think this way. I think as a modern society we love the look and feel of old things and appreciate their character, but at the same time we love our technology and the ease and function that it brings to our life. This house was a genius blending of the two worlds.

Obviously I can't say enough good things about this house. It made me think about design in a new way, which I love. I learned so much from this house and from Windsor about how important it is as designers to listen to our clients and take note of how they live and then design homes that will enhance their living, instead of just creating pretty rooms. I learned that it's ok to throw tradition out the window by creating new traditions that are more accommodating to how my clients live today.

Tastemaker Tag Sale @ One Kings Lane

2011-07-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to announce my upcoming Tastemaker Tag Sale with One Kings Lane this Saturday, July 9! It's time to say good-bye to some of my most beloved refurbished vintage furniture pieces and you can take advantage at prices ranging from 30 - 75% off retail.

It's been a crazy week getting everything for the last minute sale which was originally suppose to be at the end of the month, but I'm so thrilled for this opportunity and invite you all to come take a gander this Saturday!

A sampling of my inventory:

www.BrittanyStiles.com

June Lobby Display - LA Mart

2011-07-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of my June display up at the LA Mart.

*Featured product: stationary
*Theme: granny chic boudoir

Rummage by Kishani Perera

2011-06-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

There are so many things that draw me in to Kishani Perera's style: her color palettes, her eclectic mix of vintage furnishings, and her youthful yet sophisticated aesthetic. Now we can shop Kishani Perera's style straight from the designer herself at her new Los Angeles boutique Rummage, located on Beverly Blvd. I have a few meetings in LA next week and I think I just might have to squeeze this in.

photos via La Dolce Vita and L.A. at Home

Matt & Kim

2011-06-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

I'm starting the weekend off right by going to see Matt & Kim tonight at the Music Box in Hollywood.

My list of loves:

1. All things design
2. Good live music

Happy Friday.

LAMA

2011-06-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, there's nothing like a good modern art auction.

View some of the lots below, or in person at:

LAMA
16145 Hart St.
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Robert Rauschenberg

www.BrittanyStiles.com

Ocean Inspiration

2011-06-10T00:43:00.000-07:00

Today it was a platter full of starfish on a dining table, last week it was sea urchins on a book shelf, and the week before that I was placing an order for a shell chandelier and accessorizing a salmon colored bathroom with a piece of white coral...

Although I think decorating with sea life is a tad (or a lot) over done, I still find myself doing it over and over again. Maybe it's just a phase I'm going through, or maybe there's just something about the ocean that makes a coastal home feel unfinished without a piece of it on display.

Photos via Anne*Coyle Interiors, Shelterness, and Country Living

Million Dollar Decorators

2011-06-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy month and things don't look like they're going to be slowing down any time soon (for which I couldn't be more grateful). Last night I got home from working at around midnight, exhausted. I promised myself I was going to go straight to bed, but when I remembered that I had the series premiere of Million Dollar Decorators recorded. I told myself that I would just watch a couple of minutes to get a feel for the designers.

I don't really know who I was kidding. Of course I watched the whole thing and didn't get to bed until 1:30 am.

My schedule lately leaves very little time for TV, but somehow I'm going to justify this as work education. I have been a huge fan of Mary McDonald since my first job as a design assistant in Laguna Beach. I would flip through House Beautiful on my lunch break and one day I came across an interior designed by Mary. I fell in love and have been keeping up on her designs ever since. I was a little afraid I wasn't going to like her, but she actually seems very cool. Her and Kathy Ireland were my favorites to watch, but I enjoyed the overall repore that the designers had with each other.

I know reality TV isn't always reality, but I still appreciate the look inside these designers scope of work and clientele.

Million Dollar Decorators airs Thursday at 10/9 c on Bravo.

Etsy Craft Night

2011-06-01T19:55:00.000-07:00

The Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles and the Museum of Craft and Folk Art in San Francisco are teaming up with Etsy and it sounds like a good time for all you crafty (and wanna be crafty) people out there...

"Join Etsy and the Craft and Folk Art Museum for our first Craft Night in Los Angeles! CAFAM is transforming their outdoor courtyard into a hub of crafting and festivities. This time we will be making duct tape beads. Transform this versatile material into a necklace, bracelet or key chain and explore the museum's galleries, meet new people, and enjoy a night under the stars! Drinks will be provided by Stone Brewing Co. $5 admission includes materials, snacks, and drinks. Suggested RSVP to rsvp@cafam.org."

When: Thursday, June 2 from 7 to 9 p.m. PT at CAFAM.
Where: The Craft and Folk Art Museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd (at Curson), Los Angeles, CA 90048

Viceroy Anguilla

2011-05-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

I think I'm about a year late in posting about this, but I was at the Kravet showroom today and on the front page of their newsletter was a photo from the Viceroy Anguilla. I love most of what Kelly Wearstler does, but above all else, I think I love the way she uses all kinds of stone. In slab or tile form; honed or polished; on furniture, walls, floors, and columns; I can't get enough.

Well-Made Rugs

2011-05-18T20:09:00.000-07:00

Tabriz (above)

I'm thinking about starting a series on my blog called, "a bit pricey, but well worth it" in which I would talk about the following:

custom window treatments
custom pillows
wallpapering an entire room (none of this "one accent wall" business)
artwork and proper framing
hand-blocked fabric
and what I'll be posting about today: a well made rug

Rugs fall into 2 categories: rugs that are cheap and will fall apart in 6 months - 2 years (and generally don't look that great through the process), and rugs that are an investment that you can pass down to your grandchildren. For a larger hand knotted wool or wool-blend area rug, prices start at around $2000 and go up from there. The size and style will affect the price, but as I mentioned above, it's worth it.

Ikat Uzbek:

Antique rugs are my personal favorite and have a lot of detail and character that contemporary rugs attempt to emulate, but often fall short (with a few exceptions). Antique rugs are 80+ years old and made with construction techniques that are often replaced today by machine construction that produces inferior design and durability. Antique rugs encompass so much life and history and the fact that they are still being used today stands as a testament to their durability and timeless beauty.

Vintage Moroccan Oriental:

Nazmiyal Collection has an amazing assortment of antique rugs from all over the world. Prices vary greatly depending on size, construction, and country of origin. I have posted a sampling from their incredible collection. Visit their website here for more information.

Vintage Deco Chinese:

Antique Kilim:

Antique Agra Oriental:

Early American:

Antique Chinese Oriental:

Antique Kilim Persian:

Antique Beshir Afghan:

Don't underestimate the impact a beautiful, well-made rug can have on your room. If you're on a tight budget, purchasing a cheap area rug is an easy way to cut back, but if you can budget for a well-made rug, it's money well spent on something that you can enjoy for years to come.

Keri Russel's Brooklyn Brownstone

2011-05-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

The WB show Felicity came out when I was in high school and my sisters, friends, and I would watch it religiously. I continued to not miss an episode until the show ended my junior year of college. Every relationship problem I have ever had (and there have been many) can be linked back to a Felicity episode. Through the four year series, J.J. Abrams seemed to cover it all in a sincere and realistically comical way, which made it so relatable to me. (The cute boys didn't hurt either.)

I've been a huge Keri Russel fan ever since and was delighted to read about her home on Elle Decor's website.

She decided on a brownstone in Brooklyn and did a complete remodel under the convenient direction of her contractor husband. (Maybe I should look in to getting one of those.) The house is adorned in reclaimed wood cabinets and side tables and other creatively repurposed materials.

Get the full scoop here.

Ruthie Sommers: Tells It Like It Is

2011-05-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

I looked through March's House Beautiful a while ago and noticed that it featured Ruthie Sommers' newly remodeled home in Los Angeles. I was a big fan of her store, Chapman Radcliff, that was on La Cienega, and like the rest of the design world, fell in love her style after her feature in the first ever issue of Domino (below).

When I first became interested in interiors, I had a very white/neutral design aesthetic. Looking back, I'd have to say that Ruthie's interiors are probably one of the main things that opened my eyes to the world of color, so it is fitting that her House Beautiful article is all about her bold color choices.

It wasn't until just this past week that I actually read the article in House Beautiful and it was by far my most favorite interview to date (although I don't read every article). I was cracking up at some of her answers to the interview questions. Her honesty is refreshing and I ate up every word. Below are some of the highlights (via House Beautiful), exemplifying her extreme confidence in being who she is as a designer.

David A. Keeps: How do you make three or four colors in a room work?

Ruthie Sommers: Matching is for amateurs. That's Decorating 101. I like all colors — soft, light, shimmery, deep. I'm a watercolorist, and one thing I learned from painting landscapes is that if you're ever stuck, lighten your lights and darken your darks to create contrast.

Almost all your ceilings are vividly colored. What's wrong with white?

White is boring on a ceiling. I may not know where my car keys are, but I know when I need a yellow ceiling.

So why did your red room need a yellow ceiling?

I wanted it to feel like a lush old English study, or a cozy room in a Paris B&B, so I put red damask on the walls. But the room needed an edge. So I did a canary yellow ceiling. One person said it looked like McDonald's. I told them they needed to leave.

How can you be so confident about such bold choices?

I don't think about it too much. You know, Sister Parish never used a tape measure. I don't use a color wheel. I probably should use one more often. But when you do what you love, sometimes you can pull it off. There are a lot of clients for whom I do minimal colors or soothing ocean shades. And I don't want them to come to my house. It's not their cup of Crayolas.

You're really cuckoo for color.

It gives me a panic attack when I can't get the right color. At a client's house we painted the bathroom periwinkle, and one day we looked at the sky and it was the exact same color. I would choose seeing that over winning the lottery or sex. It tickled me pink.

A good expression.

But sometimes I'll come in here and think, 'I just want to throw this house in the ocean. Why is it so wacky?'

Don't be so hard on yourself, missy.

I have Chinese, Indian, Queen Anne, Victorian, midcentury, Georgian scroll, Greek key.... I'm envious when I go into people's houses and see their restraint. I wish I were a die-hard one-style person, but I am way too ADD.

How do you draw the line between decorated and overdecorated?

I'm sure I'm overdecorated. But I want visual candy, and it's my house, so who cares? When I can't decorate anymore, I go to the ceiling. It's the fifth wall.

What's your idea of a design mishap?

People with too much money buying things just for show. If you put in your home what you love, the bravado with which you do it outweighs any kind of provenance.

What do you consider a luxury?

Rearranging furniture all night with some great red wine. And my own tail number on a private plane.

Tufting: Terrific or tired?

No design detail gets tired to me. Tufted has never gone out, and people who say it has are paying too much attention to blogs.

What are you 'over'?

I'm over the idea that a decorator is anything more than a decorator. You sit on the floor with clients, talk about chairs, push fabrics. Lifestyle architect? Tastemaker? Please. If you have taste you never even say the word!

images via Simply Seleta, Love Forever, Coco & Emma, & House Beautiful

My Kind of Art

2011-05-14T00:24:00.000-07:00

Today I purchased the last available ticket for the Newport Mesa Home Tour about an hour and a half after it started. Sometimes I procrastinate on purpose, but today it was actually because I hadn’t heard about the home tour until I drove passed a sign this morning.

One of my favorite homes on the tour was the Bay Shores residence of Diane Nelson, owner of SCAPE (Southern California Art Projects and Exhibitions) in Corona Del Mar. The decor was stunning (designed by ML Stockwell Interiors), and I absolutely loved how the home owners decided to keep the existing house from the 40's instead of doing a tear down and rebuild. Even though the ceilings were a little low at times and the floor plan wasn't as "open" as some would like, I really appreciate that kind of preservation of history and character.

But what I loved most about the house was the amazing art everywhere I turned, which is to be expected judging by SCAPE's aesthetic and taste. The art spoke to my soul and I wanted to own every piece, not to mention that the framing and placement were spot on - I wouldn't have changed a thing. Like many art lovers, I really do have an appreciation for all types of art, but there are just certain pieces that make my heart skip a beat. They are the pieces I’m dying to take home with me to make a plain wall something amazing and a good room something great. I have a love of oil paintings in muted colors no matter the subject. I obsess over abstract charcoals and pencil drawings. Any art portraying the human figure, especially sketches, I absolutely love. I also adore portraits that are painted, penciled, collaged...the list goes on.

I'm not sure if I was allowed to take photos, I'm guess not since no one on the tour was taking any, but I couldn't help myself. Here are a couple quick shots that I snuck of the upstairs landing which had a beautiful collection displayed down to the floor.

The works in Diane's home were exactly my taste, and yes...my heart did skip a beat.

Below is a smattering of art that has been previous exhibited at SCAPE. If you're looking to continue or start a serious art collection, SCAPE can help you in your art journey, and judging by Diane's own collection, I think you'll be in good hands.

Eric Zener

Wolfgang Bloch

Michael Eastman

Jeff Leonard

Julie Easton

Marco Sassone

Paula Rubino

Alexander Calder @ the OCMA

2011-05-11T00:41:00.000-07:00

The new exhibit at the Orange County Museum of Art features the work of beloved artist Alexander Calder along with other contemporary artists influenced by Calder.

After studying to be a mechanical engineer, Alexander Calder later went on to study art and eventually became famous for his miniature circus acts that he would carry in suitcases and perform for audiences. "Cirque Calder" featured circus performers made from wire, string, rubber, cloth, and other found objects. Thanks to YouTube we have access to Calder's fascinating little circus' at the click of a mouse.

Alexander Calder is perhaps most famous for creating the mobile. Calder had said, "To most people who look at a mobile, it's no more than a series of flat objects that move. To a few, though, it may be poetry."

And to me...it is poetry.

Go to the OCMA and see for yourself. The Calder exhibit runs through September 4, 2011.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T00:49:00.000-07:00

The older I get the more I realize the kind of impact a loving mother can have on a child. I know that all of the good things about me; all of the success and confidence that I enjoy is due in large part to my amazing parents, who are still my biggest fans today.

This year for Mother's Day I had the opportunity to celebrate 3 of my most favorite mothers on the planet: my own mother, who is mom to myself and my 4 siblings; my oldest sister Mikken, fabulous step-mom to 3 adorable kids; and my next older sister Melissa who is pregnant with my very first little niece or nephew!

I made each of them a little floral bouquet using peonies, ranunculus, molucella, and tullips - above and below are some photos of the arrangements.

Our new tradition, which we started last year is to do a Mother's Day brunch. We all decided that breakfast food is prettier anyway, which makes for better photographs! My sisters, mom, and brothers are all amazing cooks; most of the food for our brunch today was made by Melissa.

This year was especially fun because my entire family was in town. We are all lucky enough to have pretty flexible jobs which allow us to see each other often, even though we don't all live near each other. Even still, one of our favorite things to do is sit around the table when we're all together and eat and talk...for hours.

My little brother Jeff & my dad:

My parents:

Smiling pictures can get boring, so sometimes I like to change it up.

My brothers and me:

Mikken's handsome husband:

Melissa and my mom:

My mom took this and was pretty proud of her artsy photo.

As the remaining single siblings, sometimes we high-five to celebrate our singledom - it is generally initiated by someone saying, "Singles, up top".

I mentioned in a previous blog post that I am helping my oldest sister with her condo, so you can see a little of her dining room progress in the photos of our table setting.

At the end of the day, a table always looks better with fresh flowers, and food always tastes better eating it with my family.

Happy Mother's Day Mom, I love you!

Family Room Installation, Irvine

2011-05-07T21:11:00.000-07:00

While still in the design process during the months leading up to a room installation, I stress and worry over seemingly insignificant details to any non-designer. This list of decisions and worries consists of things such as: getting the wood finish just right on the custom furniture pieces (satin, gloss, high gloss, cerused, bleached, dark stain, light stain, medium stain...); deciding which white paint color works best with our fabric color palette (white-white, grey-white, linen white...); how high or low I should hang the wall sconces above the fireplace mantle (centered at the mirror, slightly above, slightly below); the proper shape of the ottoman to fit the room (square or rectangle); selecting the right faux finish for the fireplace (not too dark and just enough gray), selecting the perfect artwork that compliments the design of the room, but also has interest and meaning for my clients (and don't get me started on the matte and framing options: thickness, color, material, texture...); the list goes on.

But on installation day, when I get to put it all together, all of the little decisions that had to be made leading up to that point, significant or otherwise, all seem to be worth the thought and worry that went in to them. Installation days are hands down my favorite day to be a designer.

Here are some photos of my installation that took place this past week in Irvine, CA. The lighting is bad and doesn't show the colors accurately because the sun was going down when we finished (yes, it was an all day affair), but this will give you a glimpse until I have my photographer come to do a shoot.

Before photo:

A couple of progress photos:

Finished product:

(please excuse the unsightly lamp cord...)

The drapery panels need to stay wrapped at the base for 3 days to ensure that they fall and fold properly...

For interior design services in the Irvine or Orange County area, visit my website, www.BrittanyStiles.com.

May Display

2011-05-04T01:47:00.000-07:00

A new month means a new display at the LA Mart. This month's theme: travel, books, & souvenirs. Here are some photos of my goings on this past week, which included a lot of drilling and even more spray adhesive. It took me a while to arrive upon the "travel" bulletin board idea, and until I got to that point I was a little worried about coming up with something creative, beautiful, and do-able. (I can come up with a crazy idea to hang vintage airplanes from the ceiling, but that doesn't mean it's going to be possible to execute.)

Kelli and I with our power tools:

The more I do visual displays, the more I realize what my strengths are and what types of displays, for me, are the most successful. It's definitely the interior designer in me, but the displays that I love the most and that I think send a clear message to onlookers are the ones that incorporate living. I'm not interested in stacking up product on clear acrylic stands at varying levels; to me that is more about achieving balance and a successful composition rather than also creating something interesting that people can relate to or at least want to relate to.

Work in progress:

Product from the showrooms gathered for the display:

Although I enjoyed my spring display, I feel like this month's display was more successful in creating a sense of living. As I was selecting product and putting together the bulletin board, I was telling a story in my head of someone who lived a fascinating life of culture, music, history, and of course, travel. I wanted the display to be a snapshot of this person's interesting life.

Finished display, back:

Like my interiors that I design for clients, I want my visual displays to feel collected, layered, and interesting. If it's too matchy, too cutesy, or too trendy, I tend to shy away.

Finished display, front:

Perhaps the most monumental feat of this months display was that I got home at 11:00 pm last night. That's quite the change from my normal 2-3 am arrival time on installation day.

Thank you dad and Kelli for helping me! As always, I couldn't have done it without you. I think it's about time to hire and intern...

Here's to wishing everyone a happy and creative May.

The Find Consignments, Newport Beach

2011-05-01T20:50:00.000-07:00

The Find Consignments is a fairly new little consignment shop that I've been frequenting as of late down on PCH in Newport. One yelp review of the shops states, "Wallet beware", and it's so true. Everywhere I turn in this little treasure trove is something that I want to buy for myself or am dying to use on a current or upcoming project.

Here are some photos from my most recent trip and they get new, fabulous inventory daily.

I'm obsessed with this French antique patio set. The worn finish on it is absolutely beautiful. I'm picturing it reupholstered in a bold stripe or even a granny-chic floral.

For help with furniture shoppping or interior design in the Newport Beach area visit, www.BrittanyStiles.com

Pretty Lights That Hang

2011-04-19T23:50:00.000-07:00

Scalloped lantern in tortoise, Coleen & Co.; nizam lights from Viya Home;Venetian v. 2, Urban Electric Co.; Eden, Ironware International.

Orange County and Los Angeles interior design services, www.BrittanyStiles.com

Filmore Clark

2011-04-19T02:43:00.000-07:00

I'm loving this tile from Filmore Clark. It would add pizazz to even the dullest kitchen or bath. Not to mention I can't get enough of that hand made look.

Contact Brittany Stiles Interior Design if you'd like help with your kitchen or bath remodel.
www.BrittanyStiles.com

Spring Dinner Party

2011-04-15T01:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a little look into the spring display that I designed for the main lobby of the LA Mart. I will be designing their lobby displays for the next several months, and each one will be centered around a general theme from items carried in the gift showrooms at the Mart. April's theme was "gourmet, food, and wine". I wanted something cheery to usher in spring so I decided on an outdoor spring dinner party as my basic concept. After installing a few hand made fabric mobiles and arranging the gourmet food with some colorful dinnerware; spring had sprung in the lobby of the Mart.

A little video explanation. Please excuse my shabby appearance, it had been a long day...

LA Mart
1933 S. Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90007

For design services, visit www.BrittanyStiles.com

Vintage Spools

2011-04-14T01:39:00.000-07:00

I love shopping at consignment shops for accessories for clients (and myself). When I see something interesting and at a great price, I generally can't say no. Even if I have no immediate need for the item, I keep it in my inventory until I find it a perfect home.

Such was the case with this group of vintage spools. They are pretty rustic in their appearance and don't really fit any of the projects that I'm working on at the moment, but they have so much character and I loved the variation of size and muted colors. To me, these will look so much more interesting on a mantle than a grouping of vases from Z. Gallerie.

Cannery Exchange, Newport Beach.

www.BrittanyStiles.com

Doloris Petunia

2011-04-13T01:15:00.000-07:00

Busy is good, but I hate when I don't have enough time to blog and catalog my design inspiration and experiences. This time I'll blame in on a few new and exciting projects (yay!) and a little on Uncle Sam and a little thing called income tax (not so yay). I was talking with my friend/accountant tonight about how the reason I'm so unorganized is because I'm a creative left brained person and you can't possibly be both left brained and right brained. That's probably not true, but it's what I tell myself every tax season when I realize just how unorganized I am.

Sunday I went with my good friend and bride-to-be Adrienne to check out the progress of and be fitted for her custom made head piece by Doloris Petunia of Santa Monica. Courtney Miller's home/studio was a creative feast for the eyes. It was so fun and inspiring looking at all of her works in progress and hearing about how she got her start and how her business has exploded this past year. She began selling on Etsy but is now selling her one-of-a-kind out of this world cuffs at Anthropologie. I saw photos of her sparkly creations prior to heading up to her studio, but after seeing them in person, I realize that the photos don't do them justice.

Hand sewn and each piece unique...Courtney is the tops when it comes to stylishly creative. (It must take her a long time to do her taxes too...)

View more photos and get more info on Doloris Petunia's Facebook page here.

www.BrittanyStiles.com