gracefully NOTED

Philadelphia, PA

"Decor"

Noted: Four Designs I Loved this Week

"Art", "Decor", "Design", "Inspiration"Meghan Mary Keeley HarcarComment
This floor by Arbore Historic Floors is based on M.C. Escher's lithograph "Reptiles", which they created for a client in Madrid. While I am not the biggest fan of reptiles (mostly just petrified of snakes), I love seeing art incorporated into everyday living and interior design, and this pattern in particular is both fairly subtle and a clear reference at the same time. You can see the pattern in the lithograph below to compare for yourself.


The "Forms in Nature" chandelier by Hilden & Diaz is partly inspired by the drawings and detailed plots from nature by German biologist, naturalist and philosopher Ernst Haeckel. When lit, the sculpture throws off a 360 degree projection of oversized shadows that depict gnarled, windy trees and roots.  The sculpture is not only mirrored, but turned upside down as well, ensuring the viewer is engulfed by the shadows created.  I am both mesmerized by this piece and kind of scared by it (big bad woods, anyone?).  Regardless, it is absolutely gorgeous.


"After the Storm" is a collaboration from the married couple, furniture designer Chris Lehrecke and jewelry designer Gabriella Kiss.  The wide chest is made from white oak, bronze mushroom inspired pulls, and also incorporates a branch from a dead oak tree. I really love how it maintains such an organic, natural quality, but still looks elegant and polished.  Such a beautiful piece of furniture.


I love this Book vase by the YOY Design Studio.  And I think I love it even more because it is titled "The Life of Plants".  Enough said.



via Laughing Squid / via Colossal / via NYT / via Colossal

Decorating with Flowering Branches

"Decor", "Design", "Gardens"Meghan Mary Keeley HarcarComment
With Spring in full swing, I can't help but want to fill the house with flowers. While the traditional arrangements are gorgeous as well, I am also really drawn to the beauty and the drama of flowering branches. I love how they work with more modern spaces and in traditional homes.  I hope you enjoy the images below!

And, it also gave me a great stationery idea. Stay tuned! 




Images from i suwannee, elle decor, habitually chic and pinterest.









Bookworm

"Decor", "Design", "Inspiration", "Style"Meghan Mary Keeley HarcarComment
As anyone who knows me can attest, I love to read and as a result I have a LOT of books. While I definitely got on the e-reader bandwagon as well, there is still nothing like an actual, physical book - the feel, the smell, flipping the pages - I love all of it. So, when it comes to picking up a new read, if I am not utilizing the library (I am a little obsessed with my library), I tend to sway towards buying a physical book, which is why my bookshelves are overflowing. Luckily, I actually really like the look of books in a home and enjoy seeing them on my shelves and find them almost comforting. As a result though, not only have a I collected a lot of books over the years, but I find that I can't part with them. I think that is what attracts me to photos of bookshelves in other peoples homes. They are great for providing inspiration on how to arrange my own books. Below are some of my recent favorites. Enjoy!

What's your favorite? Do you have a way you like to arrange your books? Let me know!




Images from Pinterest, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here.