POOL DAYS

I've decided if I can't actually lay by the pool all day (now that the sun is finally shining!) I'd like to at least surround myself with aquamarine and dream about it...

What better color to add a splash of for summer? I want to upholster all my outdoor furniture in the 'Pisces' pattern from Schumacher, serve fresh summer salads on this dinnerware, and fill up the hobnail pitcher with delicious sangria! Casual summer days call for slouchy shorts and plenty of pillows to lounge on. Of course, the summer nights call for a little color too - and I think this luxurious clutch is just the thing.

Now... where's my pool boy...

HIP + HOP

Pastels for Easter? So predictable. I think this year the Easter bunny needs to put a little more hip in his hop and add some super rad brights to bronze, grey and even a dash of black...

And if I could get away with this holiday ensemble you bet I would. Do I see some tabletop inspiration coming from this palette?? I think so... stay tuned - this week is gonna be good.


*dining room via the nytimes, tray available at furbish, striped ensemble via the decorista

LET'S (POOL) PARTY

Hello lovelies!! I'm running around High Point again today (day two!) and already I've seen so many fun things to share with you (soon, soon!). But, in honor of the fact that the sun is shining to the tune of 80 degrees, I'm thinking maybe it's time for some summer dreaming...?

Like the makings of a fabulous pool party, perhaps? Flirty little striped sandals, cocktail tables meant to follow you wherever you go, designer ping pong paddles, and graphic napkins to set the scene. Not a bad start, right?

I LOVE...

This sexy little bar cart...

Especially with its triangular shape that makes it ideal for fitting into little apartment nooks. Gorgeous!

*via caviar 20

ON THE SIDE

Lately I've been doing a lot of hunting for side tables, stools and ottomans for clients as they seem to be the perfect little accents for adding a touch of whatever it is the room may be lacking. Need a pop of color?  Perhaps a layer of texture? The side piece is a worthy contender for filling those voids.

Personally, I'm in the market for two types of side pieces. *1. A piece to hold stacks of magazines and the occasional cup of coffee or wine glass. *2. A piece to provide easy additional seating without taking up too much room.

The pieces above are my top contenders... well, all except the first glamourista (budget, people, budget!), but isn't she pretty? I'm leaning toward a pair of x-benches as they are the most classic and versatile of the bunch, but I love the way the jute cube and the white garden stool matchup together too!

And then there's this guy...

I have always loved the way these antique pieces look in a room, so when I saw that Urban Outfitters was carrying their own (budget friendly!) version, I was very tempted to place an order! A few coats of gold paint and - if I'm lucky - adding a mirrored top, and I'd be all set.

What do you think, dear readers? Have you seen any side tables or small stools lately that you think I should add to my options?

*interior design by suzanne kasler