Pimp Your Ride

Cars only move me in the literal sense, so I don't pay much attention to most cars on the road around me.  But this car demanded my attention with its bold design and contrasting colors.  Goes to show how powerful design can be when it is used deliberately.  You cannot deny the presence of this car, and the color palette and patterns tells you what this company is all about - fun, modern and sophisticated.  It was compelling enough to make me visit their website  http://www.latavolalinen.com, which is just as exquisite as their cars.

I think most people underestimate the power of design and how it can affect your mood and inspire you to do more.  I was having a ho hum day running errands when I saw the van, but it made me smile and perk up behind my wheel.  It got me thinking how I can bring an element of style and fun into the most mundane things in my life.  It's easy to get bogged down with the drudgery and routine of everyday living, but even a small, beautifully design object can bring  a little joy to your day.

Lonny Office Makeover

Lonny Makeover

The latest issue of Lonny has a great article about their office make over.  Decorating an office that is functional, beautiful and inspiring can be quite challenging, and Lonny gives some great tips on how to pull this off.

Establish a focal point.
Make every square inch  count.
Design your office as if you were designing your home.
Define work spaces.
Fill your office with things you love.
Balance style with function.
Make it your own.
Keep it tidy.
Get your creativity flowing with an inspiration wall.
Install adequate lighting.
Maximize your workspace

Check out the latest issue for more information and inspiring examples.

Vintage Storage

 
We spent a glorious Sunday morning at the Alameda Antique Fair, and it's a good thing I only brought $100 with me or I would have came home with a truck load of cool stuff.  It was my first time there, and I was amazed with all the wonderful, vintage items for sale.  There is something for everyone - cute little decorative items for a couple bucks to high end antiques for thousands of dollars.  Being the organizing geek that I am, I was drawn to all the vintage storage solutions ranging from wooden boxes to metal storage lockers.  This is what I would have bought if I had the space in my house.  Pardon the poor quality of my phone pictures.

 

Apartment Therapy just posted a great piece about using such pieces in the home.  Makes me want to redecorate the house with a vintage industrial theme.