TJ Maxx January Finds

Hi all! I hope your 2018 feels as productive as mine so far! Although, there is definitely room for more progress (always). What I've focused on since my last post about bettering myself this year is :

- I've signed up for some technical classes to hone my design skills at NYSID

- I've been working on my portfolio and making great progress 

- I've set an appointment for Invisalign

What I need to do still:

- Set up my personal training sessions at the gym

- Figure out how best to write blog posts consistently and POST THEM (I usually just post things as they come to mind, or what is relevant for me at a certain time - but I'd love to figure out the best method for posting what and when)

- Figure out my best game plan for food prepping and NOT BUYING THAT COFFEE, although I've been doing really well so far!

In the meantime, I'm always browsing for inspiration and product and came across some pretty little finds from the latest TJ Maxx home assortment. As we all know, there are limited quantities and they can become unavailable at any time. I've come up with my top 10 finds - which is your favorite?? 

1 / BP Industries Mango Wood Console / $139.99

2 / Jofran Rattan Chairs Set of 2 / $179.99!!

 

3 / UMA Galvanized Metal And Wood Table / $79.99

4 / Made in Italy Chessboard with Drawer / $79.99

5 / Stylecraft Side Table with Storage / $199.99

6 / Chanel and Louis Vuitton Coffee Table Books / $24.99 + $59.99

7 / Tainoki Patterned Fabric Bench / $99

8 / Urban Trends Sunburst Mirror / $39.99

9 / Jofran Leather Side Chair / $299.99

10 / Siena Faux Succulent Plant / $12.99

I am loving all of these, especially since some are just super unique like the acacia wood chessboard set! I also love how you can get some really amazing coffee table books, and faux plants that are perfect for adding some no-maintenance greenery. So many more options here! 

xo,

Lauren

Easy Home Updates for Summer

Hey everyone! It's been a full month since my last post. If I really want to stay on top of this blog thing, I really should post more, huh? Well, one of THE most amazing things has happened this month - I'm engaged! So naturally I'm pretty much non-stop thinking about what our wedding plans will be and believe me, I have a lot of ideas :) I will keep you posted on that, but in the meantime I've put together ways to update your home for summer. I love introducing more greenery, lightening up my bedding, and switching out candles for more summery scents. What are your go-to summer home updates??

1 / summer candle / white company

The White Company just opened by my job, and when I checked it out I fell in love. I LOVE their candles like this summer scent one and they also have a lavender one that is amazing.

2 / organic washed linen sheet sets / west elm

I love switching out my sheet sets to something lighter and more breathable - in the summer and winter, too. Something like a washed cotton or linen will have a lighter feel and keep you cooler at night.

3 / eva tassel + kyoto pillow covers / serena + lily

One thing is for sure - I love pillows. I think it's great to use lighter or darker neutrals for your main pillows so you have more versatility to mix in others when the seasons change.

4 / white stone terrarium / west elm

I absolutely love this terrarium collection! I have one that has the natural wood as the base. Each one is handmade and the glass is actually burned and then melted onto the wood. I would recommend going to a west elm if you can to pick yours in person like I did. 

5 / multi colored dish towels / anthropologie

Switching up your dishtowels in the kitchen is a small, fun way to get in the summer spirit.

6 / striped bath mat / target 

Changing out your bath accessories like your bath mat, towels and shower curtain is also another small, fun way to bring summer into your home.

7 / favorite fruit pot / anthropologie

I love how whimsical these planters are! Perfect for summer. 

xo,

Lauren

Anthropologie Sale Favorites

Hi guys! Things have been pretty busy with family birthdays and other events going on and we are still waiting on our Anthropologie media console but I am so excited to get it soon! I'm still looking for other pieces to complete our space, and I may be browsing a few places this MDW for the promotions going on. In the meantime, here are some of my favorites that are on sale right now.. of course from their home department.. from napkins to bedding to furniture. By the way, that media console is a version of the one we got but shorter and a black pattern. The all natural one is sold out but I still am loving the contrast of this one. I just love how unique they are and that they are solid wood. Also, PLEASE let me know if there are any topics that you would like to see me post about and I will plan to do so!

PS: If you're a member at Anthro, they just launched an Anthroperks for members that include free shipping on all orders $150+. I don't know if that is a huge perk but shopping there does add up so maybe it makes sense. Enjoy :) 

chair / terai folding chair / $149.95

media / sura media console / $1099.95

napkins / madras napkin set / $19.95

bowl / fox & hare serving bowl / $39.95

side table / thorntree side table / $249.95

sham / peonia shams / $69.95

pillow / guideline pillow / $29.95

bath mat / maya bath mat / $29.95

rug / marmotinto rug 8x10' / $699.95

xo,

Lauren

Rug Love

Happy Monday guys! It's been a little while since I've been busy with work and family things (haven't we all) but I am back! I wanted to share a few of my favorite moments in my home currently including our new Lulu & Georgia rug that I LOVE every time I walk into our apartment. I kept telling myself I only wanted wool, handmade, etc but I couldn't resist the style, color and price point - it was part of L&G annual 25% off sale so I had to. I am still on the search for a perfect media console but I have been scoping out Stor New York on Etsy and although the price point is higher, each media is handmade in Brooklyn and I even have the option to customize it a bit so that is all in the works :) 

By the way if you are ever in Astoria and looking for a great brunch spot, check out Mom's and/or Halsey's Tavern! We originally went to Mom's but they had such a wait, but told us Halsey's Tavern next door has the same exact kitchen and brunch menu (minus iced coffee and milkshakes). So we lucked out with no wait and delicious food :) Stay tuned for more design updates and a new post on what to look for when styling your shelving!

coffee table / west elm
shelving / west elm
decor / west elm, anthropologie, lulu & georgia, etsy, target
sofa / raymour and flanigan
chair / wayfair
side table / homegoods
planter / west elm

xo,
Lauren

Anthropologie Sale!

Another day, another sale! Many of my posts lately are around some pretty good furniture sales going on, probably because I am looking myself. If I happen to see a good blog-worthy sale going on while I am browsing I am sure to share with all of you! The latest is a 25% off sale items, and 20% off select furniture sale at Anthropologie! I wish that they had the perfect media console for me so I am still on the hunt but these are some of my favorite! I am especially loving the Terai Chair in Peach :) Enjoy!

1 / azia mirror

2 / rose gold table lamp

3 / terai chair

4 / mayworth sconce

5 / paillette pendant

6 / panorama display coffee table

7 / lacquered regency nightstand

8 / archway end table

9 / meralda rug

xo,

Lauren

Lulu & Georgia Friends and Family Sale

If you have been waiting for the next sale at Lulu & Georgia it's going on now and everything is 25%! (code: BESTIES) L&G is best known for their textiles and accessories but they also have lighting, furniture, art, and so much more. Here's just a handful of some of my favorite finds from all ranges but check out there site for more! I am not sure when the sale is ending but I have a a few items in my cart like this rug for my living room :) Which one if your fave?

1 / pillows / risa pillow / $150 $112.50

idalo pillow / $36 $27

2 / moriah bench / $450 $337.50

3 / tayla mirror / $218 $163.50

4 /  bed / ismo bed / $2,005 $1,503.75

5 / orine lamp / $212 $159

6 / cactus decor - set of 2 / $34 $25.50

7 / dwell studio black faceted vases / $15-$75 $11.25 - 56.25

8 / gold dipped drum table / $198 $148.50

9 / petite trou stool / $129 $96.75

10 / declan rug 5'2"x7'6" / $145 $108.75

PS: If you missed my last post on the latest Serena & Lily sale, check it out here! Their 20% off everything sale is still happening.

Serena & Lily Weekend Sale!

Serena & Lily is one of my favorite stores, and this should come as no surprise :) I've sourced there for clients and go to their site often for inspiration. This weekend they are having a 20% off friends and family event with code MUSTHAVE. Here's a space I put together with some of their most popular pieces... but their sale is certainly not just limited to these so check out their site for more! 

sofa / spruce st 3 seater sofa / $2,895 $2,316

rug / flokati rug 8x10' / $898 $718.40

coffee table / anguilla rattan coffee table / $798 $$638.40

pouf / moroccan leather pouf / $498 $398.40

ladder / teak ladder / $348 $278.40

side table / hunter side table / $498 $398.40

table lamp / halsey table lamp /   $498 $398.40

mirror / harper mirror / $598 $478.40

pillows / barcelona pillow cover / $88 $70.40

magnolia pillow cover - bark / $88 $70.40

montecito outdoor pillow cover / $78 $62.40

PS: I'm excited to share some of my favorite vendors from the Architectural Digest Design Show in the next few days. For a sneak peek check out my Instagram @laurenmaiorana. 

xo,

Lauren

Lulu & Georgia Rug Sale!

Guys! Lulu & Georgia is having a rug sale - 20% off all rugs! Here is a group of some of my favorite deals below - which one is your favorite? 

Sources from counter clockwise:

1 / Halette Rug / 8x10' / Machine made / $410 $328

2 / Sanaz Rug - Blush / 2x3' / Machine made / $37  $29.60

3 / Emile Rug / 8x10' / Hand made / $1096  $876.80

4 / Mirabelle Rug / 8x10' / Hand made / $2050 $1640

5 / Mina Rug / 8x10' / Machine Made / $989 $791.20

6 / Belen Rug / 8x10' / $426 $340.80

7 / Don't Worry Be Yonce / 2x3' / $45 $36

xo,

Lauren

Create the Look: Studio McGee's Office Retreat

Hi everyone! I am starting a new theme of posts every week dedicated to creating looks by some of my favorite designers. I browse social media and blogs often and get inspired continuously. It's always refreshing to check out others work and get ideas. One that I particularly love is Studio McGee. Shea McGee and her husband, Syd, started their design adventure together after realizing that design was their passion. I am constantly inspired by their work and find myself wondering where they find all of the beautiful items they include in their designs which lead me to this post. I absolutely love this office design below - it is so open and light but at the same time bold and curated. I find myself gravitating towards designs like these where you will find minimal pieces paired with natural, and organic elements and it never hurts when there is stunning art involved. Below you will find a list of items I sourced for you to create this same look! If you have any inspiration photos that you are loving and want to send them to me to create a post like this, feel free to contact me and maybe you will see it in the coming weeks! Enjoy :)

Spotlight White Desk / Crate & Barrel

Vintage French Round Fabric Chair / RH 

Lido Isle Baskets / Serena & Lily

Natural Off White Cowhide Rug / Cowhide Imports

Embossed Wood and Metal Tray / World Market

Small Rippled Cylinder Vase / Target

Samual Kane - Inky Love / Z Gallerie 

Sara Brown - Romance Story / Z Gallerie

Drawing Room Blue 253 - Farrow & Ball

Symmetry Objects / west elm

Striped Angle Marble Bookend / west elm

20th Century Library Double Sconce / RH 

XO, 

Lauren

Apartment Refresh to Come

Hello all! I hope the start to your new year has been fun and productive :) So far for me, I have looked into classes at NYSID and FIT, although NYSID has more class options for me to take they are so darn expensive so this next week I will be narrowing down my options and deciding which one's will be worth it. I would love to take classes with credits, just in case I decide I want to pursue a degree, I can put them towards it. As for learning Spanish, I have not dug too deep into that yet but I plan on using Duolingo to get started soon! As for painting more, I plan to turn my eat in kitchen area into a "studio" space which excites me. One last thing is that I plan to refresh my apartment this year in order to kill two birds with one stone - 1) we are in need of some new pieces and 2) it will be the start to my portfolio that I'd like to create this year so I think it's worth a little investment. The key to all this being...saving money! :) In the meantime, below are some items that I am hoping will make it's way into our apartment soon many of which are on sale right now!

1 /  Nea Rug - Cream / $2,149 / $1,289 / RH Teen 

This rug is a viscose, cotton and wool blend. I plan on ordering a swatch to see if this tone works in my space and isn't too light because it is mostly viscose which could stain more easily but I am loving this option! 

2 / Mira Coffee Table /  $599 / $449 / west elm

 Currently I have a bone inlay table with a metal origami base and I looove it except it is just too small. We need a larger table, with no wood because we already have a lot of wood (floating shelves behind sofa, media console, and side table) so I would love an option like below to break that up. The top is a black and grey marble which I feel would be durable (more so than white) because of it's variation and dark hue. I just love this one!

3 / Austin 62" Media Console / $999 / $899 / Crate & Barrel

Finding the right media is not easy - well, it would be if it was just up to me buttttt 

it's not :) It has to be a lot of things like 1) open shelving 2) can hide all wires and 2) the right size and ideally a solid wood. This solves all of those things and I'm loving that it's solid walnut with exposed dovetail joinery.

4 / Capitola Stripe Pillow - Fog / $98 / Serena & Lily

 Camille Diamond Medallion Pillow Cover / $78 / Serena & Lily

What I love about pillows is that they are such a simple way to change the look of a space without spending a fortune. This one especially is a natural linen and created using an ancient Japanese dyeing technique that makes each one original and authentic.

5 / Parsons Bone Inlay Floor Mirror / $549 / $411 / west elm

We have a space in our living room where I currently have a round brass geometric mirror in between two windows, but I would love to switch it out if I end up going with a coffee table with a brass frame. Our current coffee table is a bone inlay one, which I love except it is just too small. So I thought of incorporating the bone inlay that I love and do a leaner mirror instead. This one would be perfect.

In the next few months I am looking to make these changes and hopefully will have after photos for you. Stay tuned!

xo,

Lauren

Living Room Refresh

I've been pretty busy these last three months (actually not super busy) but I have missed posting! I've been thinking of a refresh for my own living space which inspired this post. I haven't created a mood board in some time, so I thought to create a living space that I would want to live in right now. As many times as I try to create spaces that are timeless and minimal, I can't help but to put my own eclectic twist on it - besides, this is all for fun anyway :) Some of my favorites to incorporate in spaces that I design are natural materials - like these raffia side tables and resin chandelier, pattern and texture play - pairing a larger scale patterned rug with a variety of smaller scale patterned pillows, a light and airy feel - keeping the sofa and paint colors light, and a touch of the beach - I do this with art and incorporating natural materials like this aged elm coffee table.  I've sourced pieces from many different companies, and you can find them in the links below! Enjoy !

Rug / Amira Rug / Room + Board

Sofa / Avalon Sofa / Joss + Main 

Coffee Table / 17th C. Scholars Square Coffee Table / Restoration Hardware

Side Tables / Blake Raffia Side Tables / Serena + Lily

Table Lamps / Lillian Table Lamp / Joss + Main

Chandelier / Addison Pendant / Serena + Lily

Art / Stinton Beach by Jesse Leake / Pottery Barn 

Pillows / Susan Pillow, Kara Pillow, + Luane Pillow / Lulu + Georgia

xo,

Lauren

A Not-So-Teen RH Teen Bedroom

I have to say I've had my eye on some (many) pieces from the RH Teen assortment for quite some time now. Working for Restoration Hardware, I get to help create dream spaces for clients and their homes. I don't include RH Teen as often as I could for a few reasons - we don't showcase it in our gallery, many of my clients are looking for our core brand or RH Modern pieces for their home, and clients just don't know about it. When I do introduce the line to clients, they are blown away because there are so many amazing pieces that are offered that aren't only for teens. The line is meant to be sophisticated and transitional for the younger generations - something they can love now and love later. Not to mention, many of these pieces are at a lower price point than RH main brand. I've put together a bedroom (because...why not?) that I would happily live in myself. Take a look, click on the links, and check out this amazing line! 

1 / Merritt Wide Dresser

2 / 18th Century Venetian Glass Round Mirror

3 / Sheer Linen Cotton Drapery

4 / Callum Platform Canopy Bed with Storage

5 / Sato Rug in Grey 

6 / Metallic Knit Cotton Pouf

Braided Metallic Leather Pouf

7 / Kenzie Small Side Table and Low Side Table

8 / Industrial Pipe Single Task Sconce - Dark Steel

9 / Beach Photography

10 / Wood Gallery Frames

11 / Geometric Geo Metal Bookends

RH is known more for their effortless way to use symmetry to create balance. For me, I like to create eclectic spaces that are balanced, not symmetrical, with a play on different textures and materials. I'd say this bedroom does just that. What do you think? :) 

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