Welcome Spring!

Spring is here! Well, sort of.  As some of you may have heard or experienced, NYC and surrounding areas got hit with blizzard Stella today (snow day!) but that didn't stop me from looking into what new spring lines are out for some of my favorite stores! I'm thinking we will see even more mix of materials, texture and soft geometric patterns this spring. There's a lot more to come but here are a bunch of my favorite new spring items... I am seriously loving the Anthropologie Live-Edge Oakwood Bed with visible butterfly joinery...which one is your favorite?? 

bed / prana live-edge bed / anthropologie

dresser / odetta 9-drawer dresser / anthropologie

baskets / cheyenne baskets set of 2 / lulu & georgia

rug / stone tile rug / west elm

media / pictograph media console / west elm

pillows / jo and ramona pillow / mc gee & co

dining table / circuit dining table / cb2

chair / antonio acrylic chair with pillow / cb2

xo, 

Lauren

Create the Look: Becki Owens

If I said I was a fan of Becki Owens, that would even be an understatement. I'm in love with her elevated, clean and curated designs. I'm constantly inspired by her team's work and go to her blog and instagram for inspiration often. Check out her blog here! I came across one of her many spaces designed as a hangout space for teens. I feel like it can also be a space for adults because it is just as much sophisticated as it is fun. I fell in love with it and decided to come up with a similar look keeping the overall modern, bohemian aesthetic the same. I hope you love it just as much as I do! 

Carmel Sofa / $2,495 94" length / One Kings Lane

Eternal Palmette Knot Medallion / $310 8x10' / Rugs USA

Duarte Geometric Stool / $129 / One Kings Lane

Kelli Knitted Pouf / $129 / One Kings Lane

Docksta Table / $179 / Ikea

Antiqued Metal Funnel Pendant / $318 / RH 

Bamboo Weave Roller Shade in Natural / Custom / RH

Teak and Bottle Vase / $98 / Anthropologie

Metal Accordian Side Table in Brass / $79 / Urban Outfitters

Reclaimed Wood Floating Shelf 2ft / $79 / West Elm

One of a King Guida Pillow Coral / $55.90 / Lulu & Georgia

One of a Kind Lori Pillow / $108 / Lulu & Georgia

One of a Kind Freda Mudcloth Pillow / $88 / Lulu & Georgia

Tassled Pointilliste Pillow / $78 / Anthropologie

Agda Printed Yarn Pillow / $39 / Urban Outfitters

xo,

Lauren

Fall 2016

Happy fall! I am absolutely loving the new fall collections some of my favorite stores are introducing this year! Even though they can be very different, I feel like they all have a stylish comfort about them. There is something so simple about these pieces, yet still elevated and intriguing. I'm especially drawn to all of the natural materials, textures, and tone-on-tone color palettes. I've only posted a handful, but I would recommend checking out the full collections on the stores websites. I can't wait to start using them in my designs! Enjoy :) 

1 / leighton pillow cover + peruvian stripe pillow cover / serena + lily

2 / parks end table / room + board

3 / alexis tufted bed / rh teen 

4 / organic capiz bowl / z gallerie

5 / avec chair / cb2

6 / holden accent lamp / rh baby + child

7 / graydon shagreen media console / rh 

8 / muir coffee table / west elm collection 

xo,

Lauren 

Design Update: Coffee Tables for my Living Space

Hi! It's been some time...I swear I thought I'd be getting better at posting more often but I am back! My last post was a while back in January and much has happened since then. I've set up my desk area in my bedroom, I've been tackling self-teaching myself AutoCad, and I'm stepping more into design at my job with RH...plus my cute-as-heck Goddaughter is now 10 months old! I have to say, I don't know how some people do it -- working full time, taking classes, have kids, etc. When I have those thoughts, it motivates me even more to go after what I want...now...and not wait. So that is what I am doing. Now, the next step for me in my apartment (yes it's been baby steps for a while but I'm not the only one, right?) is selecting a new coffee table. I've been on the search for a while and it's not that we don't love our coffee table now, but we need a larger one that's in proportion with our sectional that we can eat on -- we rarely use our actual kitchen table. SO...here are some options I've been looking at and I've thrown in a photo to get a better idea of my current space. Which one is your favorite? 

1 / peekaboo acrylic coffee table / cb2 / $279

 I am loving this see through option because it will keep my space 

feeling larger. Lucite can also work with many different design styles which

is great if I want to switch things up although this particular piece

is only 13.5" high and a little low to eat on.

2 / slab marble coffee table / cb2 / $299

I just know this piece will go with everything in my home. The metal base is 

a touch industrial and the marble top keeps it looking chic and classic.

3 / kyra coffee table / crate and barrel / $599

A glass option could work in my space, I especially love the bottom

shelf on this piece. Because we eat on our table so often though

I may need something more durable than glass.

4 / aquitaine coffee table / joss + main / $234

This is a more industrial looking option than I usually would choose but I 

know my boyfriend would love it. The mix of metal and wood would

also go with our space but I am slightly afraid of it making it

too industrial looking because we already have other wood elements.

5 / marble box frame coffee table / west elm / $599

I've always been drawn to this table and I love the contrast of the marble

and bronze base. The base keeps it extra open and I can see myself using 

baskets underneath for storage if I need to. I'm just still a bit skeptical

of marble due to it's porous nature especially when eating and drinking on it.

Lastly, here is our current living room. Our sofa isn't super permanent but it 

does the job and is comfortable. Our current coffee table is the Origami Coffee Table 

from West Elm. I'm debating on switching out our rug also because I prefer a higher, 

softer pile but the boyfriend and I agreed on this flatweave so we went for it. I would love

a coffee table that would stay with us for a while and around $600 or less (including delivery).

Stay tuned to see which one we end up with and comment below if you have 

any recommendations!

XO, 

Lauren 

NY Resident: September Issue

Happy Friday! September is here and I'm pretty excited for the east coast fall weather that I have missed living in California for the past 2 years. If you don't know already I write a bit for the NY Resident Magazine -- primarily articles on trending real estate in New York City and also design features. So check out the magazines website -- they have a link to the actual issue. SO much good content that is worth reading, even if you're not from New York, from design to food to getaways and more.  This months design feature was all about having pieces in your home that serves purpose without sacrificing style. The real estate feature is on The Charles which is quite the luxurious gem in Manhattan. Enjoy and I hope you have a Happy Labor Day! Let the festivities begin...

Xo,

My Top Multifunctional Finds

Hi there and Happy May! I could write a post about how April showers bring May flowers but instead I decided to round up some of my favorite multifunctional finds. Whether you live in a small space (like me) or a large one, multifunctional pieces are always a good idea. Here are my top 5 favorites:

1 // marina mirror rack / $229 / cb2 / I love a good entry mirror and even more

when there are hooks involved. 

2 // lulu fabric storage ottoman / $146 / overstock  / This is a serious steal right here.

Not only does this piece have a fun pattern but can be placed in a living room, window nook, entry way or even in front of a bed PLUS it has hidden storage. Win. 

3 // duo side table floor lamp / $399 / west elm / Because the lamp is attached

to the table you get double the surface area on the table to place things than

you would have had if you were to put a lamp right on it. 

4 // dual-drawer chalkboard shelf / $39 / urban outfitters / Love the look. Love the functon. Love the price. I can picture this in an entry way or kitchen wall.

5 // lacquer storage coffee table / $549 / west elm /  west elm is based out of Brooklyn 

which is why many of their pieces are meant for smaller spaces. This storage coffee table comes in 3 finishes (all attached to the link). Not only can you store items inside like books/magazines/throws -- you can set your laptop on top for working and use as a table for eating, too.

One day I will have all of these in my home! Are there any that you are

falling in love with or may even have yourself?! I'd love to know what you think. For 

more design and art inspiration check out my instagram @laurenmaiorana :) 

Xo,

My Dream Home: Bedroom

Seriously, there are WAY too many items I love that I would happily have in my dream home but I can't have it all. In my previous post I put together my dream dining room look with a link to all items -- one of my favorite artists of mine that I featured in that post saw it and featured me on her instagram so go check it out @rachelreinertstudio! I am going to do the same for you here but this time you will get to see my dream bedroom. I could create this look now but my boyfriend and I are currently renting so we can't do much. We're waiting for our first real place of our own where we can invest in what we really want (he actually approved about 90% of what I picked out here -- i'll take it!). Some items are on the pricey side but a girl can dream! I'm a DIYer so I'm pretty sure if I can't find it less expensive, I can do what I can to create a similar look. So for this space, I continued the design style of my other rooms -- boho, chic, modern, eclectic. I really love mixing styles and playing with patterns -- it makes it that much more you. And don't be fooled because you can totally make it work. I currently have a navy and white theme going on in my bedroom but I just don't know what it is about turquoise that just gets me every time. Oranges/reds are complimentary so I wanted to use touches of that as well with accents of black and white and antiqued brass. The side table pictured could be used as the nightstand or as a side table for the chair. If storage was needed I would add a nightstand that had a drawer or shelf. Either way it WILL have this prism brass pendant over it. Ahhh, I'm in love...

bed // alexa reclaimed wood bed // west elm
pendant // prism pendant // west elm
side table // bamileke stool // serena & lily
chair // bangala armchair // anthropologie
rug // oriental weavers sphinx revival rug // rugs usa
dresser // reclaimed wood + lacquer dresser // west elm
mirror // bunny williams fretwork mirror // clayton gray home
pouf // morrocan leather pouf - black // serena & lily
fur rug // tejn rug // ikea
chair pillow // magical thinking diamond kilim pillow // urban outfitters
back bed pillows // adalet pillow, ebony // lulu & georgia 
front bed pillow // magical thinking katia beaded pillow // urban outfitters
vases // waterscape vases // west elm
artwork // abstract waterfall painted by myself 



I have sold that waterfall painting but I'm dying to paint a huge version of it. There are many natural elements in this space -- reclaimed wood, linen, seaglass, the color scheme, etc. I wanted a piece of art that represented that and even added another natural element in itself, so choosing my waterfall piece just fit. I picture a white Belgium linen duvet cover (the one from west elm) on the bed with matching euro shams. I'm obsessed with how soft they are -- totally worth the price. Adding white linen curtains is another way of adding a natural element with a super clean feel. Oh, one more thing! This mood board does not give justice to just how beautiful the detail on this mirror is. Definitely check out the link to see the full image -- it's worth it. I'm in love with it all but which part is your favorite? Stay tuned for more of my dream home rooms! If you don't already, follow me on instagram @laurenmaiorana to check out more design, diy, art and lifestyle inspiration :) 




Xo, 

Loving Linear Rugs

I've been seeing some pretty amazing rugs and they have one thing in common -- lots and lots of lines. So I'm starting to think linear rugs are an up-and-coming trend but can be super timeless, too. Here were some of my favorite ones that I came across from some of my favorite stores. You're welcome :)

1 // abstract angles wool dhurrie // west elm

2 // assembly home chevron printed handmade rug // urban outfitters

3 // moroccan diamond shag brown rug // rugs usa

4 // ps low pile multicolor // ikea

5 // silvered prisms rug // anthropologie

6 // reverb black rug // cb2

Xo,

photo credit: west elm, ikea, cb2, urban outfitters, anthropologie, rugs usa

Creating an Eclectic Space

Ever wonder how some designers are able to create a space that mixes design styles so well? Eclectic design allows the mix of one design style with others - modern, mid-century, industrial, vintage can all be placed together & the list goes on.  In essence, it creates the look that you have collected all of your items over time. However, there is a method to the madness - it's all about balance. You don't want to add too many different styles or the space will be overwhelming. Here are some rooms I've designed so you can see how this style just works. They are just as eclectic in style as they are in budget. I've mixed some budget-friendly pieces with items that are definitely worth the splurge.

This bedroom has a mix of boho chic, mid-century, transitional and modern. There are clean, modern lines in the bed paired with soft, round items in different styles. Yes, this room may be more on the girly side with the floral jute rug  but easily swap it out for a solid one and it can be gender neutral as well.

1 / Nate Berkus Metallic Window Panel 84"l / $24.99 / Target

2 / Nate Berkus Round Cage Table / $79.99 / Target

3 / Osborn 4 Poster Bed, Queen / $1,499 / Crate & Barrel

4 / Modernist Table Lamp / $179 / West Elm

5 / Penelope Nightstand Small - White / $199 / West Elm

6 / Marrakech Swing Chair / $229 / Urban Outfitters

7 / Heenalu Jute Rug 6'x9' / $299 / CB2

Glam meets rustic in this dining room. I chose a sparkly chandelier that makes a statement to pair with this rustic, reclaimed pine table. Pairing the table with leather captain chairs and more modern side chairs gives this space the ultimate eclectic look. Top it off with a colorful, global inspired rug and it's a win. 

1 / Quorra Chandelier / $362.60 / Joss & Main

2 / Willoughby Leather Chair - Ivory / $399 / West Elm

3 / Emmerson Dining Table - Reclaimed Pine 72" / $999 / West Elm

4 / Winsdor Overdyed Grove Turquoise Rug 5'x8' / $376 / Rugs USA

5 /  John Vogel Chairs / $299 / West Elm

Mid-century, modern, and industrial are a few of the main design styles in this living space that I chose. I love the mix of the industrial coffee table with the natural fiber jute rug. The tapered legs on the side table and sofa give it an edgy, mid-century touch that is just what the space needs. I added a pair of luxe velvet pillows in a bold color that gives the room a much needed color pop.

 1 / Atomic Matte Black Arc Floor Lamp / $299 / CB2

2 / Brushstroke Swirls Artwork / $249 / West Elm

3 / York Sofa - Grand / $1,499 / West Elm

4 / Magical Thinking Handquilt Velvet Pillow / $24 / Urban Outfitters

5 / Nate Berkus Black and Gold Accent Table / $69.99 / Target 

6 / Rubicon Jute Rug 5'x8' / $279 / West Elm

7 / Frame Round Coffee Table / $499 / Crate & Barrel

8 / Saunder Mud Cloth Ottoman / $249 / Urban Outfitters

9 / Moda Chair / $559 / Urban Outfitters

10 / Nate Berkus Zig Zag Fur Pillow / $29.99 / Target

Do you tend to stick to one style in your home or do you like to mix things up?? I'd love to know what you think about these eclectic looks. :) 

Xo,

Industrial Finds

I'm into many different design styles. I love a well put-together, eclectic space. Rustic, mid-century, modern and industrial are all styles I love. Here I put together some on-point industrial items I've found browsing some of my favorite sites. I'm loving the cobalt blue industrial stool from Rejuvenation the most - it also comes in many other colors. Which one is your favorite??

1 / 4040 Locust Copper Pendant / Urban Outfitters

2 / Felicia Meda Console / Joss & Main

3 / Aiden Coffee Table / World Market

4 / Industry Chair / CB2

5 / Industrial Kitchen Island / West Elm

6 / Industrial Pipe Adjustable Rod / West Elm

Xo, 

Design Styles / Industrial

Have you ever seen an item and thought that it is exactly the type of design style you're into? There are so many different types of design styles - industrial, modern, mid-century, contemporary, traditional, rustic, glamorous, coastal, vintage, eclectic - and that's just to name some. Personally, I like mixing and matching different looks so I would say I have more of an eclectic-chic design style. I love pairing the new with the old and making it look chic and put together. For my next few posts I want to explore these different styles and if you're not sure what you like this may help you find out :) 

Industrial design is very trendy right now. When you hear the word industrial you may think metal, piping, salvaged decor, wire, exposed brick and you're pretty much right. I chose some pieces that have an overall industrial look & if you like any of these items you just may be into industrial design. 

1. Arteriors

 Stanley Costello Cocktail Table / Layla Grace

 2. Cafe String Lights / Pottery Barn

3. IndLights Industrial Ceiling Light / Etsy

4. Dutch Industrial Bed with Footboard / Restoration Hardware

5. Industrial Iron and Mirror Cart / Rejuvenation 

6. Lecture Desk / CB2 

7. Pipe Adjustable Rods / West Elm 

 8. Sterling Stool Side Table / CB2

9. Wire Mesh Storage - Rectangular / West Elm

10. Industrial Adjustable Stool with Back / West Elm

Xo,