Client's Outdoor Space

Sooo, my first outdoor design job is complete! I have been so anxious for this, I could barely stand it. We started off with a budget and intentions on using the existing furniture the family already had. Her style was very Pottery Barn, but I'm sure as you all know, you may have to take a loan from your life's savings by the time you're done shopping there. After hitting up a few antique stores, I had the look without the major expense. So, without further ado, here are the photos:

BEFORE

AFTER

The trunk coffee table was vintage and very nicely priced. Plus, it doubles as storage for the pillows. Once winter comes, the folding chairs can be used indoors as extra seating for the holidays.

I took her old red pots and spraypainted them black to fit in with the new color scheme. I also added some floral hanging baskets.

Next, I tackled the dining area by turning the table the other way so all the furniture wasn't in a straight line. I also added hanging lanterns and a pretty, ornate mirror on the siding for an unexpected touch.

Next, I took her old table, sanded it down, and stained it to match the wood in the chairs and to also give it a more "finished" expensive look. The stools are from Pier1 and fit perfect with the table.

Finally, with some help from our landscaper, I redesigned the strange space that this was into the perfect area for a firepit. I used their old furniture and repurposed the coffee table as a plant stand and firewood storage. I also tried to continue the rustic look by adding the stand with plants and a coppery firepit. 

The homeowner loved it and I have to say I'm happy with the outcome, too! I had a great experience with this client and really hope my future ones are just as awesome to work with! If you'd like to see more photos, visit Tendenza Fashion & Interiors' facebook!

P.S. Check out this brand new online mag called House of Fifty over the weekend!

Design Inspired by Figs

For some reason, I have a strange obsession with figs. And honestly, I don't even really like them that much. (don't even get me started on fig newtons.) At my in-law's house in Italy, they grow everywhere. You can just pluck them right off the trees and eat them. What I love about figs is their color. On the outside, they aren't too exciting, but when you open them up, they have such a beautiful vibrant color. I had them at my wedding scattered on the tables and I just bought a fig tree that I'm going to try and grow in a pot. Even if I'm not successful at actually growing a fig, I still love the shape of their leaves. Cross your fingers I can keep it alive!

These images of figs used as decor is really making me hope my little fig tree makes it!

I just had to share this image of figs used in a floral arrangement. So pretty...

I was checking out Etsy's website and found some really neat things. Like this piece of art would look awesome hanging on a wall:

This pendant is so cool. It's actually molded from a real fig:

I also couldn't help myself from designing an outfit around the beautiful colors of figs:

A Fashionable Interior

Love, love, love:

Have a good weekend everyone! (Yes, I actually typed that on a Wednesday. I thought this mistake was too funny not to share...)

Mixing Metals

When it comes to fashion and interior design, my mantra is rules are made to be broken. I have to say, I'm a bit annoyed with myself when it comes to my office design. I really love black and gold together, but the wallpaper in my office was black and white with metallic silver in it. Therefore, for some reason I insisted on only using silver accents in the remaining space. Now, I'm rethinking this concept and throwing caution to the wind. I'm going to add as many gold accents as my office can handle. It's going to be magical. I'll keep you posted on the transformation, but in the meantime, check out these inspiring spaces that also mixed their metals like there's no tomorrow.

I also love how well it can be translated into fashion. Below is yours truly modeling for Sorrelli's MiMi line. If you love mixed metals, you will love their collection.

What are your thoughts on mixing metals? Would you do it?

Serena and Lily Summer Catalog

Serena & Lily's summer catalog just came out and the inspiration this baby holds is awesome! Below are some of my faves. Click here to see the full catalog.

How cute would this be for little girls?

They even have a low voc paint line:

Have a great weekend!

Treehouses

How cool would it be to own a treehouse? Especially if it would look like this:

This tree house was recently featured in Chicago Home & Garden:

If I build one at my future house, I'm totally giving Swiss Family Robinson a run for their money...

And here's what I'd wear when I'm chillin in my treehouse:

Design Poll - Blue and Red

Visit Tendenza Fashion & Interior's facebook today to give your opinion on decorating with blue and red!