Decorator Spotlight: Brooke Cariker Inabnett

Today I'm sharing with you a couple of favorites from the portfolio of the Dallas based decorating firm, The Interior Stylist. Owner Brooke Cariker Inabnett, creates sophisticated spaces with an emphasis on clean lines layered with modern, personalized touches.

For more, head on over to her website!

House of Honey

Currently swooning over the design projects over at House and Honey. I love the way designer Tamara Kaye-Honey uses updated classics to create elegant yet very livable interiors. My favorites from her:

photos via house of honey

Did you notice the marble countertop in the kitchen that runs down the sides of the island? That's definitely going in my dream home inspiration file! What about you, any favorites?

P.S. She also has a decor shop in South Pasadena. I hear it's filled with a beautiful selection of wallpaper and fabrics, whimsical and playful accessories, and unique pieces of furniture. I must visit!

Design Star

This weekend I'll be tuning in to HGTV to watch the finale of Design Star. I've been pretty disappointed with this season (serious lack of wow moments, annoying contestants like Nina, and what was with all those weird group challenges??) but regardless, have tuned in (well, background watched) to watch the contestant Emily Henderson. I had previously seen Emily's portfolio and loved her aesthetic (her designs would surely grace the pages of Domino if it were still around).

photos from Emily's portfolio

This past episode was the first time she really had a chance to show her talents and she didn't disappoint. I love the fabric she used for the focal wall (which by the way my friend Bryn has 2 yards available of in her shop), the fabulous green sofa, and the overall eclectic, personal and intimate feel she created.

photos via HGTV

Emily's show concept is to take a client's personal fashion style and transfer it into his or her home. Sounds like something I'd definitely watch! I'm rooting for her!

Designer Spotlight: Melissa Warner of MWM

Back in January, I spotlighted the very talented design trio at Massucco Warner and Miller Interior Design and Decoration. Today I'm excited to be featuring one of the latest projects by the lovely Melissa Warner, head of the Los Angeles office. Melissa sent me photographs of a San Francisco home she recently finished for a young family. I was absolutely delighted to receive them in my inbox! I think you'll see why...

Entry

Dining Room

How great are these tangerine velvet chairs?!? They work so beautifully with the De Gournay Portobello wallpaper.

Office

This clean, uncluttered, light-filled office, with just the right amount of kelly green imperial trellis added for style, makes it an ideal work space.

Who knew office cabinets could be so glam?

Living Room

I love that these chairs are upholstered in an unexpected color -it's such a fun way to take something traditional and make it more modern

Breakfast Nook

Such amazing light! who wouldn't want to spend their mornings there?

Family Room

Boys' Room

I love the impact bold painted stripes can make.

Girl's Room

Aren't those silhouette pillows darling?

Master Dressing Room

Vanity Area in Master Bath

A perfect composition of simple and standout pieces {that mirror}!

Master Bedroom

Osbourne and Little Asuka wallpaper + plush tufted headboard+crisp bedding=bedroom perfection

I was lucky enough to do a little Q&A with Melissa. Here's what she had to say about the design project:

AB: What was the goal of the project?

M: A fresh take on the classic! The goal was to reinvent the traditional with clever details, bold patterns, and color for miles. I wanted to make the home functional and kid friendly, while maintaining a hip vibe and uniqueness that reflects the personality and youthfulness of its owners.

AB: Where did you find inspiration?

M: The clients! This young family is filled with energy and I wanted to make sure the house represented their lifestyle.

AB: What was your biggest challenge?

M: Using kid friendly fabrics without sacrificing style!

AB: What was your favorite design resource you used?

M: I worked with a local upholster who was so patient with me as we worked out every detail of tufting, nailheads, welting...the list goes on and on. I really enjoyed working with him to customize each piece and make it one of a kind.

AB: Which was your favorite room and why?

M: That's a tough one but I'd have to say the little girl's room! I had so much fun designing each detail of this space... I can't resist the turquoise and watermelon combination.

AB: Did you have to make any big compromises?

M: The client was a dream! Our visions for the space were so consistent so I didn't have to make any big compromises.

AB: Did you use any inexpensive pieces?

M: We did definitely mix and match higher end pieces with less expensive items. In the little boy's room, the beds are custom made but we paired them with lucite nesting tables from CB2 -a reasonably priced and chic solution!

Designer Spotlight: Massuco Warner and Miller

I'm finding myself drawn to theses spaces designed by the trio over at Massucco Warner and Miller Interior Design and Decoration. I love how they use classic motifs in a modern way and integrate special pieces and fun color palettes to produce a sense of freshness, vibrancy and flair in each room.