Kay on Non-Conformity. Architecture. German Village

When Cheryl assigned the task to blog about what inspires us, I thought it was going to be a daunting task. Most of us are inspired by so many things on a daily basis - how do you pick just one? For me, it is nature, my children, a particularly well-thought-out line of prose or verse, a multitude of colors, art in all of its forms, and even Cheryl herself, who leads by example. But then, I went past one of my favorite houses while walking to work - the white painted brick one. It stands out proudly amidst a sea of red brick in German Village. I love the non-conformity of it, and that's when the little rebel inside of me clapped and said, "That's what you're going to write about"! Non-conformity. Architecture. German Village.

I lived in New Albany for over 2 decades, so I witnessed its transformation from quirky little 2-stoplight town with the grain mill and Dairy Creme, to an upscale city with cookie-cutter homes and brick Georgian architectural conformity. No I.M. Pei or Frank Lloyd Wright welcomed there! Then I moved to German Village. There's lots of brick here, too, but individuality reigns.

not your usual lawn ornament - love it!

reminds me so much of Europe

love this bright orange porch swing!

The diversity of the people who inhabit this unique part of Columbus is allowed to shine through in their homes. How much more personal than that can you get? I'm always inspired by those living an authentic life and not one that mirrors their neighbors. Non-conformity allows you to live without restrictions while simultaneously respecting the uniqueness of those who dwell and work around you. What actually gives German Village its sense of community is the fact that so many of its residents dare to live creatively.

For me, the companion to non-conformity is imperfection, a concept lovingly embraced by the ancient Japanese art of wabi-sabi. It shows us that authentic living is found in seeing the beauty of imperfection while acknowledging the value of worn, yet timeless pieces - of truly seeing just how exquisite ordinary items can be. I think this concept also translates well into architecture and German Village is a shining example. With its well worn brick streets and historical homes of every architectural style, German Village embraces its imperfections.

Non-conformity and wabi-sabi inspire me to live true to myself and

German Village is a great place in which to do it.

Beachy Chic

Louie and I are taking a few days at the beach with some friends for some much needed rest and relaxation after a busy 3 months. I am struggling with feeling uninspired while working through personal struggles. So I am on a quest for inspiration to get my mojo back.

Image: Coastal living

Costa Rica

I find that traveling gives me the most creativity. Its the change of scenery, the smells, sites, and culture that I crave. Since I am at the beach I started browsing for some beachy interiors. Living in the midwest especially Columbus, a land locked city, I enjoy finding elements that you find at the shore and implementing them into our midwest homes.

Coastal LivingCoastal Living

Guatamala

Meg Ryan's beach home featured in Elle Decor

This coral color reminds me of things you find in the ocean.

House Beautiful

House Beautiful

House Beautiful

Blue glass tile always reminds me of water and the ocean. Chandelier by Currey & Co

House beautiful

House Beautiful

Photos from the new Traditional home digital magazine teaming with Lonny Magazine.

Lords South Beach Hotel designed by Dan Mazzarini at BHDM designs

Taking the Indoors Out

I think it's safe to say, spring is finally here! (maybe? please?!) As the weather warms, it's only natural to begin venturing outside more often for small gatherings, cookouts with friends and neighbors, pool lounging, and drinks on the back porch. Is your space ready?

sunset west

Outdoor "rooms" are a great way to expand your living space, especially if you don't have ample square footage indoors. They also give you the opportunity to have fun and go wild with colors, textures and lighting if you're too nervous to explore your creativity indoors.

house beautiful

house beautiful

house beautiful

house beautiful

Keep in mind not only what you see, but what you smell and hear as well. Plant interesting plants and beautiful flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Add soothing water elements for a relaxing space.

house beautiful

house beautiful

house beautiful

Lighting is key when the gatherings last through the night. Create interesting focal points with fun lanterns, spot lighting, and ground lighting.

These outdoor spaces have me inspired to redo mine just in time for all of our summer parties!

I am looking for new fresh recipes to kick off the celebrating of warm weather!!!

Spring is in the air

I enjoyed a brisk walk through Schiller Park today in desperate need of some sunshine. Spring is right around the corner and I can feel my spirits being lifted. I wanted to share some rooms full of beauty and color and hope these rooms leave you as inspired as I was. flickr

Designer's Guild is always a source I love to use when designing a room with whimsy and color.

I have had this sample in our design studio and now seeing it again on this pillow reminds me how much I love it. The pattern reminds me of my trip to Istanbul.

Kara Mann

The elegant living room designed by the uber talented Laura Day. As well as this fun table setting. Start getting inspired for those outdoor summer parties.

Miles Redd

Inspired by gratitude and nature

I recently had the honor of working with Lee Ann, Daryl and their boys. As in all of our projects, our inspiration comes from finding out what inspires the household and in turn reflecting that in the final design.

This world class traveling family has found inspiration in travel and nature. It was important to find the right space for these majestic pieces of inspiration. They have traveled the world in search for just the right one. With great care, these animals were given the best seats in the house. For Lee Ann and Daryl the animals are a reminder of God's faithfulness and His many blessing they have experienced in their lives.

When you enter this home, you truly encounter the gift of hospitality. There is a peace and comfort that radiates to everyone that enters. Once you step in, you never want to leave. I was ready to move in. You really want to know more about the people that live in this house and know the stories behind each room.

About a stones throw from the home sits their charming B&B, called the Miller Haus. It rests on a beautiful hill that looks over some of Ohio's lush countryside. Lee Ann's gift of hospitality spills over into your experience when staying there. So all you city-slickers, take a day or two out of the city to come to the country. You will not be disappointed. It's so peaceful. The food is delicious and is truly comfort food at its finest. After all, isn't it nice to have a completely different pace in life? Even if it's for one or two days, we can all use the time to reflect about what is important in life. Thank you Lee Ann and family for being a true inspiration.

Before of Living room

Work in progress for living room

Adding wall paper to the back of the bookcases and over the mantle really

give a focal point and add a sophistication to the room.

The red on the wall really has a nice romantic glow at night.

Before of kitchen

After