Stones in the Wall

Living on a tropical island doesn't guarantee you a secluded tranquil oasis, case in point the proximity of our neighbors.  The condo project next door is so close that we can clearly see the neighbor's front door and bedroom windows from the deck. UGH$#*&!! to put it mildly.  We jumped at the chance to turn this problem into a WOW feature, and came up with this stone privacy wall.

Decking My Halls

We've been traveling and I got a very late start on Christmas decorations, I'm still decorating as we speak.  Truth be told it's been a daunting task this year with the house renovation and chasing after a one year old.  But Christmas is my favorite holiday and it's Milan's first christmas at home so I really wanted to make it special.  My strategy this year was to choose to work on just a few big & bold projects.  Maximum impact with minimal work!  Here are a few of my favorite decorations this year...

The Stockings Were Hung

George & I didn't grow up with many holiday traditions so it's been fun to try new things and create our own as the years go by.  Now with the addition of Milan we think it's even more important to create traditions that will define our family and last for years to come.  For example, her Memory Christmas Stocking that we hope will create a sentimental collage of all of her favorite childhood memories & interests.  Like a charm bracelet, each year we'll add one special item, ornament or keepsake to the stocking that best represents her love & passions for the year.  

Not So Spartan Railings

We've been renovating our deck for over a year now and are finally coming to the end of it!  The final pieces of the new railings were installed a few days ago.  I originally envisioned a sleek contemporary design, however with an active toddler on the verge of walking I knew that the horizontal railings I longed for would be used as a step ladder by little climbing feet.  I kept it simple and stuck with this classic and child-friendly vertical design instead.

Bee Hive Relocation

Spring is here and the bees are swarming on St. John.  So much so that a swarm decided to make our outdoor shower their new home!  Last week I noticed buzzing around our newly installed wall sconces.  Since the fixtures were original to the house, repurposed for the outdoor shower, I assumed the buzzing was due to wiring and figured I'd get the electricians to take a look at the sconces again.  The next day George looked up and there they were!  

Moving on UP

Or should I say DOWN. The "organized mess" you see is my new 300 square foot design studio. Over the weekend I relocated my home studio downstairs. Since our home acts as my primary canvas and is my constant muse for projects and designs, the whole live-and-work space concept is ideal for me.

The Ultimate Baby Wardrobe

I have this wonderful antique armoire in our bedroom. It was a very generous housewarming gift from our friend & former landlord. The armoire is old, weathered and full of character. Ornate silver sheeting cover areas in the aged wood that have seen better days.