Requiem for Domino

As most of you know by now, the much-beloved Domino announced yesterday that it will be folding with March 2009 being its last issue. I don't know about you, but when I heard the news I was quite bereft and reflexively went to the Domino website (which will also be shuttered) hoping for something - a sign - a glimmer of hope - I don't know. I came away empty handed. Domino was the only magazine I looked forward to every month - like a little gift in the mail and it will be dearly missed.

In the meantime, permit me to send a virtual 'shout-out' to Nick Olsen, Domino's online Deal Hunter. An uber-talented decorator, Nick's column is a hilarious must-read that's totally on-point when it comes to decorating ideas and advice. Currently, Nick is on a White House decorating kick with my fave posts being his 'speed decorating' inspiration for Malia and Sasha 'Fierce' (as he dubbed her) Obama's rooms.

By the way, if there any early Domino subscribers out there - I'd love to receive scans of your fave 2005- 2006 issues to share with late 2006 subscribers like myself. I'm thinking a vigil might be in order. *sniff*

Happy Chinese New Year!

[Photo credit: Clockwise from top left - Reuters/Vincent Du; Reuters/Aly Song; AFP/Getty Images/Paul Ellis; Reuters/Enny Nuraheni.]

Wishing everyone a year of great happiness and prosperity! To enjoy more of these beautiful and inspiring photos, click here.

Finding My Style

[Photo credit: HGTV/Find Your Style]

Those close to me know I rarely watch television. However, every Saturday at 3:00 pm I do make an exception for HGTV's Find Your Style! Hosted by Karen MacAloon also of Design Remix, this is my weekly TV fix.

Using style 'tells', Karen deciphers the homeowner's style and guides them in designing their room of choice. Karen then adds the finishing touches which are always fabulous! Note to all design snobs - Karen's open-minded attitude is infectious and has made me appreciate styles I wouldn't normally care for. She also shares lots of design tips and tricks that anyone can use.

Last night, my curiosity got the better of me and I gave show's online style quiz a try. I must say, I was quite surprised at its accuracy. Billed as Rustic Comfort, my style is detailed below:

"Part updated country, part ethnic flair, both with a contemporary look and feel. You need a home with casual and practical style – an environment that'll work for kids, pets, company and more. The emphasis is on simple yet attractive, durable furniture will hold up over time while your colorful accessories energize and entertain for years...Function is a key consideration as well. A multi-purpose ottoman that doubles as a coffee table or storage unit would work for you."

Although I' not sure about the label, most of the style assessment is spot-on - right down to the ottoman. F.Y.I the photos on the HGTV site don't do Karen's work justice. Ya gotta see the show! However, the quiz is a worthwhile endeavor. To check it out, click here.

Have a great weekend!

Unexpected Inspiration: Museums

[Photo credit: Room photos, Apartment Therapy]

It's only Wednesday and I'm dreaming about the weekend. Is that bad? Well, let's think of it as planning ahead :-) Apparently, this one promises to be frigid but if you're feeling intrepid Pretty*Practical recommends exploring the great indoors!

Specifically, your local museum. Museums are one of my favorite places to soak up ideas on displaying art, discovering new color combinations and curating your own collections. At the American Museum of Natural History I fell in love with the driftwood horse if the first photo above. Can't you imagine this looking awesome in a spare modern home? I also loved the trellised windows (right) featured in an exhibit room. So intricate and pretty!

[Photo credit: Room photo, David Netto Design]

Last but not least, how striking are these graphic groupings of charcoal drawings? Bringing it into real life, the attached home design photos illustrate how simplicity along with an infusion of natural elements is key to a restive atmosphere.

[Photo credit: Room photos, Apartment Therapy]

And what about this colorful trip down memory-lane? The candy advertisements above are featured in actual vintage trains at the New York Transit Museum - a Brooklyn-based gem that kids and grown-ups will certainly enjoy. And as you can see, this palette of muted red, yellow and blue can make for spaces that are both lively and livable.

Have you found recently found inspiration in a place that surprised you? Let me know!

New Italian Design School

Nota bene aspiring designers! This January, Italy's newest design school, The Florence Institute of Design International has opened its doors to students from around the world.

Founded by veteran architect, Marc DiDomenico, the school builds upon Florence's rich history of art, culture and design by combining modern technologies with Italy's imaginative culture. Courses include interior design, graphic design and architecture with masters and summer abroad options available.

This is great opportunity for anyone looking to hone their design skills in an idyllic environment. To learn more, click here.

Ciao!

Around the Blogosphere: Purple Area

Several years ago, I assisted on a shoot at the home of a lovely Finnish lady. Oh, everything was divine! From the food to the decor, and it was all presented in such a beautiful, simple and gracious way. Since then, I've had a deep love for all things Scandinavian.

Case in point, the delightful Swedish blog, Purple Area. Written by interior designer, Susan Larsson, Purple Area is a veritable hub for inspired decor ideas. Susan is blessed with a great eye and always seems to have the most amazing design finds - clean and modern with just the right warm touches.

While the blog is written in Swedish, there is an English translation option. But who needs words with gorgeous photos like these! To enjoy more Purple Area style, click here. Thanks Susan!

And have a great weekend everyone!

[Photo credit: All photos courtesy of Purple Area]

Small Moments

[Photo credit: Pretty*Practical]

Growing up, January 6 officially denoted the end of Christmas. It was the day to ruefully pack away the decorations and return to 'life as usual'. Of course, this ritual could not be conducted a day late for to do so would mean a year of bad luck! Today, as I remove ornaments and holiday cards, I can't help but feel a little nostalgic.

This holiday was quiet but very meaningful for our family. My husband took some rare time-off and we were able to enjoy the little things like the gingerbread house my daughter made at school; delivering petite greeting cards; traveling around on wintry nights to enjoy the holiday lights and delighting in our children's toys as if we were kids again. So for now, I'll cherish these little warm memories till next...

New Beginnings

Happy New Year! Wishing you joy and peace at home and beyond.

[Photo credit: mark.os via Flickr]