Summer is quickly approaching.  Haul out the patio furniture, tune up the grill and sweep off the deck.  The warm weather gives us an opportunity to expand our living space and get back in touch with nature.   So rather than living with the same decor year after year, let’s spruce it up with some color and accessories.  Like any room in your house, your outdoor space deserves some attention with a mini face-lift now and then.  Here are some fabulous finds to make your outdoor space feel like a special destination any day of the week.

•  Fire Pits Add Warmth - Whether you are enjoying their ambience with a glass of wine or toasting marshmallows, you cannot miss.
• Fun and Games - Why not roll out the Bocce ball, horseshoes or badminton?  They might moan and groan but soon enough everyone will be laughing and cheering.
• Color Infusion - Some colorful throw pillows make the space come to life.
• Aromatic Container Garden - Decks can look barren, so start a container garden with beautiful jars & urns.  Herbs such as Rosemary are easy keepers and give off a wonderful aroma.
• Cozy Converstation - Defining a conversation or dining area with a Pergola transforms a so-so space into a warm and inviting haven.
• Memorable Meals - Colorful utensils and attractive serve-ware make a meal special.

Kick back, relax and enjoy your newly rejuvenated space!

Check out Great Outdoor and Patio Sources in My Secret Database!

The weather has been a bit wacky across the country this week but the sun has been busting through and temps are rising.  Many readers are are pulling out the shorts and sunglasses with high hopes.  As I scan My Secret Database I am spying a lot of great Seashore related items.  Remember, the Beach House look is not purely seasonal.  Cobalt blue, Nautical themes and Slipcovers can blow some refreshing sea air into your home any time of year.  Let the season begin!

Explore My Secret Database with a Beach House twist!

Colors, textures, luxurious fabric and trim.  Who doesn’t love a great pillow?  A few beautiful pillows will change the feel of a room instantly and give you a jumping off point to accessorize your room.  Beautiful Pillows and Home is a treasure trove of pillows!  You can search by collection or by color.  They even have special sections for Kids Collections and Guy Things(because they don’t want those girly pillows!).  The great thing is that they have developed collections that each have 6 pillows that coordinate with each other. They give you a great “designer” look without that horrible “matchy matchy” vibe you want to avoid.  Feeling brave?  Venture outside of the “collection” and do your own thing.  Their pillows are made to order in the United States and are filled with a 50/50 mix of feather and down.  Enjoy searching their extensive selection. 

Visit Beautiful Pillows and Home on My Design Secrets!

Angela Adams says that her designs reflect the beauty of the Maine coast and she does a phenomenal job of backing up that claim. On first impulse I would not expect Maine to be a haven for modern design but her creativity as an artist who has a keen eye for interiors is evident.  The shapes and colors in her amazing rug designs reflect the beauty of nature with tranquil undertones.  She has a large selection in wool and additional designs in cotton as well as bedding and pillows.

I also appreciate that they are an affiliate of RugMark.  RugMark is working to end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and to offer educational opportunities to children in South Asia.  Good for your home and good for our world!

So Beautiful By Beautiful Pillows and Home
18″ x 18″. Linen with applique velvet, orange, pink and taupe.

Tempo Velvet Pillows from Crate and Barrel