Inspiration from Swedish home design.

For as long as I can remember, I have been obsessed with Swedish home design. With choiceful decor, white, clean lines for everything... what's not to like? If I didn't have a dog with black fur and an equal obsession with knick knacks, I would totally have a space more closely aligned to the very distinct Swedish design aesthetic. That said, it's always a goal of mine to incorporate as much of the functional design guidelines into my home as possible. Here are some inspirational photos to show you exactly what I'm talking about.

simple seating, minimal table decor, exposed beams (@ WooVaa)

exposed structural hardware, woven seating, minimal decor (@ ArchiThings)

mixed furniture styles, texture from flooring (@ viahouse)

white-washed flooring, white fabric, reading area, texture from rugs (@ dhousedesign)

fur rug (faux I hope!), functional decor, muted pops of color (@ creative home design)

bare hanging lights, queues from nature, white wood floors, fabric-hidden storage

(both @ interior furniture decorating)

platform bed, bedroom seating, minimal decor (@ idbest)

Bang, bang you're home.

After my co-worker saw the zoo and farm themed stuffed animals my friend, Jen, and I had made for our friends' babies, my co-worker asked about making some cowboys and indians - the theme for her sister's baby shower she is hosting in April. I have to admit, I was planning on skipping out on a posting but royally screwed up the indian and decided I needed a break. I do think however, that cowboys and indians is the most adorable baby shower theme. I love the whimsical, playful and contrasting nature of the theme and was inspired to check out to see how grown ups could incorporate a little bit of the familiars. Here's what I came up with.*

*As always, I never condone "themed" rooms. Elements that hint at an overall idea can be sporadically placed throughout a room to add a sense of cohesion and balance.

denim: natural home magazine

gingham: swedish furniture

cowhide: modern furniture set

feathers: get going girl

fringe! the style antagonist

Other ideas to incorporate that little bit of playfulness into a room include hanging a bright, silk bandana on a hook, adding a horseshoe to a bookshelf or finding some great artwork to use as an accent on a shelf or on a mantle. 

(Miss Nora and Mr. Xavi loving their farm and zoo!)