Sizzlin' Summer Patio Ideas

As the warm weather approaches - or continues, depending on where you live - it's time to pull out the patio furniture and enjoy the backyard, deck, and all that it has to offer. I was really inspired by these images from House to Home {UK}. The bright acid colours really give these summer patios a pop, twist, and everything in between. I really loved the over-sized metal lanterns that can be used to transform your patio from day to night. During the day, they act as colourful sculptures. At night, they're true beauty shines when they light up and provide your party with warmth and ambiance. Also, remember that what's on your patio table, for example, is just as important as the patio table itself. It's here where you can add colour, texture and vibrancy. The idea of a drink station was really cool to me. It's colourful and full of function, and who wouldn't agree to a little beverage in the summer heat? Also, beach towels - gotta have them, especially if you have a pool. So instead of keeping them locked away in some closet in your house, showcase your favourites! Plus it makes for easy access when someone wants to dry off. The colour palette of aqua blues, bright greens and yellows - as shown in these images - is perfect for a summer space because it's bright, calming and invigorating. What does your summer patio look like? What's your favourite thing about this space? Happy Thursday, gang!

Image source - House to Home UK

{June Inspiration} A Picnic in the Park

June is the perfect time for a picnic in the park. Not only are there plenty of sunshine-filled days but the thermometer hasn't reached it's peak yet - which it often does in July and August - which means you won't be sweating through your meal {let's hope!} I was inspired by these images as seen on At Home with Kim Vallee. Did you know that the picnic basket used in the image is actually a bicycle basket? How chic and innovative! The strawberry limeade looks too delicious to pass off. Plus I had to include those delectable ice-cream sandwiches - a must to cool down your body and invigorate your taste buds. The last image I discovered through Funkeytime blog. In this image, an old suitcase was converted into a picnic basket. It's a simple DIY project: all you need is some lining or wallpaper and you'll all set. Attach some fabric to the case to hold objects in place, like dishes, silverware or glassware. The popcorn and the flags were included in this "birthday picnic basket" which I feel is a genius idea, and perfect for any of your Gemini or Cancer friends who are celebrating a June birthday. What's your favourite food item to bring to a picnic? What are some of your favourite picnic baskets? Happy Monday, gang!

Image sources ~ At Home with Kim Vallee {top 3 images} Funkeytime {bottom image}

{Anchors Away} Summer Market Pics Inspired by Rain & Ocean

Happy first day of June! Can you believe that summer is almost here? I woke up this morning to a dreary, rainy day. So much rain that there have been some floods reported {most notably a flood in Toronto's TTC; Union Station}. But despite the floods, the rain doesn't bother me because I knew that it's helping to rejuvenate and cleanse the Earth. Rain also happens to be a great source of inspiration. I've collaborated these market picks that remind me of summer rains, oceans, beautiful breezes and coastal living. From wallpapers to umbrellas to bedding and home accessories, I've got a little something for everyone! Plus many of these finds are environmentally friendly to boot.

1. Nautical themed design.

2. Organic bedding by Feel More Human.

3. Nautical themed wallpaper from Design Your Wall.

4. Tropical fish vases by Viva Terra.

5. Reusable tote by Nautical Luxuries.

6. Summer shell wreath from Williams-Sonoma.

7. Inhabit Cattails pillow from 2Modern.

8. Anchor umbrella from 2BHip.

Spring/Summer Market Finds ~ The ThomasPaul Collection

Images via Thomaspaul 

 

Bedding ~ Ship duvet cover (in ink) // Elephant duvet cover (in alcazar) // Octopus duvet cover (in charcoal) 

Pillows ~ Nautical // Curiosities // Luddite // Sealife // Fragments // Arboretum 

Kitchen & Dining ~ Placemats // Napkins // Tea towels

What a perfect way to welcome spring and summer into your home than with ThomasPaul's designs. They're cheeky, colourful and perfect for any age. Kids, teens (and adults) will love the animal prints - like elephant, octopus and lion - and older folks will be raving about the more mature collections, like garden, arboretum, Luddite and more. These designs definitely have a sense of the whimsical and are filled with personality, humor and play; perfect for home accents and accessories! I collaborated a few of my market finds and was impressed by the colour options and range of collections. I'm quite fond of the nautical series but am also drawn to the more natural series. Plus the history buff inside of me is quite fond of the Luddite collection. They have items for the bedroom, kitchen and dining room, and even fashion! If you like their designs in your home, you could also wear them (as scarves, brooches and other accessories). What's your favourite piece by ThomasPaul? Cheers to a beautiful weekend! Happy Friday!

Sunday Inspiration + My Week in Review

Pictured above from left to right: spring, autumn, winter & summer

Did you know Blik's elegant new Seasons graphic by Mina Javid includes leaves and flowers that correspond with each season: fall, winter, spring and summer? That’s like four different graphics in one. For a weather and nature fanatic like me, this is pretty cool. I love the versatility and flexibility of these decals. Bring the outdoors in with this tall graceful tree and change seasons as often as you change your shoes. Which one is your favourite? Which season is your favourite?

Now onto my Week in Review:

Monday: Julianne Moore's home in NYC's West Village was this week's inspirational home.

Tuesday: I highlighted cute designs for living & giving by Susy Jack and Linda & Harriett.

Wednesday: I was inspired by mint: the perfect colour choice to bring you from winter into spring.

Thursday: Malachite was my Colour of the Month choice for March.

Friday: This week's Colour + Object combination was on power doors.

Saturday: The designer spotlight was on Amie Corley's colourful, modern, bright and inspirational designs.

~ Happy Sunday, gang!