Summer Lovin'

Summer is definitely in full swing and I'm feeling kinda lazy and indulgent. I'm just sitting around imagining how I would decorate my dream beach-side vacation home.

I think it would be a great idea to have a dock wall installation in a beach home. Wouldn't this be a great conversation piece?

Fantastic east coast beach style mmmm....

The boat bookshelf...

O...M..G...too cute!

Would love this as a beach house wall decal!

21st Century Tropical

Mixing styles is always fun! I was daydreaming about my next vacation and thought about interiors that mix modern and contemporary design with various traditional tropical styles. I found some beautiful examples to showcase. Enjoy!

My favorite! I LOVE the contemporary style of the dwelling and the elegant, yet tropical furniture and decor!

Do it yourself:

Here are a few items to start creating your updated tropical abode!

Hearst Castle Visit

I recently had the privilege of visiting Hearst Castle, a beautiful landmark located on the central coast of California. A group of friends and I were taking advantage of the lovely Memorial Day weekend to visit the sleepy town of Los Osos/Baywood near Morro Bay. We also spent a day exploring Paso Robles tasting copious amounts of fantastic wines ranging from traditional varietals to transplanted Rhone varietals. But, that is a different story...

While galavanting through the rich lands of California's central coast, a friend reminded me that the legendary Hearst Castle was near by! And of course, I HAD to pay a visit! First of all, it was a building that was planned by a female Architect, Julia Morgan, very rare for the times (circa 1914). AND Mr Hearst collected various historical and rare pieces from various cultures in Europe to create his eclectic home. It was an amazing feat! My advice...you must visit this historical gem whenever you get the chance. I have a few highlights below.

Please forgive the quality of the photos. I was totally in googlie-eyed tourist mode. Moreover, I don't want to give too much away! You need to visit this treasure yourself.

http://www.hearstcastle.org/

EXTERIOR SHOTS:

INTERIOR SHOTS:

INDOOR POOL:

Yes, the floor of the pool and pool deck have real GOLD in the tile work! You will walk on gold when you visit the Hearst Castle.