A Beautiful Giveaway then Off to Market!!!

<div align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uv5kGhKaadc/T5C1jRrHifI/AAAAAAAAHsE/CWWyL7guU0o/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image001" border="0" height="376" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xsy0bvXEYKY/T5C1ji2ShtI/AAAAAAAAHsM/Pq8C27VFQgg/clip_image001_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image001" width="604" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Designer: Kara Childress)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">When I first saw the work of Leslie Sinclair, owner of Segreto Finishes, I was mesmerized by her plaster finishes, wall treatments and cabinet finishes.</span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nj-LJj18_LI/T5C1kLoGYZI/AAAAAAAAHsU/H5EXZbtpL-w/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B6%25255D%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image001[6]" border="0" height="386" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PQTWbiKfRA0/T5C1ktMvyOI/AAAAAAAAHsc/-pcdwHx4YNQ/clip_image001%25255B6%25255D_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image001[6]" width="631" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Designer: Tami Owen)</span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> A room touched by Segreto is transformed from ordinary to extraordinary under her careful direction. </span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dp6OGvPQ3C4/T5C1lYUi_9I/AAAAAAAAHsk/H8VtKo45wCI/s1600-h/clip_image002%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image002" border="0" height="731" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LhRlPy6OIjI/T5C1lzslVQI/AAAAAAAAHss/UkoueJchuxI/clip_image002_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image002" width="520" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Designer: Tami Owen)</span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A true artist and accomplished business woman, she oversees a staff of 25 and her company, Segreto Finishes, creates some of the most coveted rooms today. Leslie recently released a new book, <em>Segreto – Secrets To Finishing Beautiful Interiors,</em> a wonderful book that has the blogs and Pinterest buzzing. So when she contacted me and asked if I would I like to review a copy, of course I said yes. Then I asked her if she would also be willing to host a Giveaway for you, and she generously agreed.</span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dNlcMe4C-_A/T5C1maUMVKI/AAAAAAAAHs0/QttjjaRIbFQ/s1600-h/clip_image003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image003" border="0" height="706" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JthApKHNLzY/T5C1m28wkDI/AAAAAAAAHs8/vLD_9waESkg/clip_image003_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image003" width="504" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Designer: Kara Childress Architectural Consultant: Sara West)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">As I was enjoying page after page of this lovely book I was struck by the beauty and peacefulness her interior finishes convey. Segreto’s trademark favors soft neutrals, texture and depth, over bright colors. </span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pLrBXk7bca8/T5C1nW6SxfI/AAAAAAAAHtE/lheE4xofkro/s1600-h/clip_image001%25255B15%25255D%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image001[15]" border="0" height="363" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-62eUITK_nCY/T5C1n-XGVqI/AAAAAAAAHtM/M7EyRCtJp7s/clip_image001%25255B15%25255D_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image001[15]" width="604" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Designer: Talbot Cooley)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">The book is a gorgeous collection of page after page of dream interiors. As a coffee table book for inspiration, its worth its weight in gold. </span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KDka04-8Cec/T5C1ohpVwlI/AAAAAAAAHtU/nBEciIUV2u4/s1600-h/clip_image004%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="clip_image004" border="0" height="372" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MNICyNS3dy4/T5C1pGciDtI/AAAAAAAAHtc/gzlk7Bo__r0/clip_image004_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="clip_image004" width="604" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Joyce Horn Antiques)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">But, the book also provides wonderful tips, hints and insider information on choosing the best finishes for your own interiors. This book ranks as one of my favorite design books of the year!</span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UT2jLplKGf8/T5C1pZoij8I/AAAAAAAAHtk/spP0HQ5iVIU/s1600-h/Front_Cover_Segreto_Secrets%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="Front_Cover_Segreto_Secrets" border="0" height="604" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pcDj3PDB3Rc/T5C1qCRb8BI/AAAAAAAAHts/Y7IPEuKxoDw/Front_Cover_Segreto_Secrets_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Front_Cover_Segreto_Secrets" width="504" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thanks to Leslie Sinclair’s generosity, a lucky reader will be receiving this treasure soon. To enter to win the gorgeous <em>Segreto – Secrets to Finishing Beautiful Interiors</em> book just visit Segreto’s website <a href="http://segretofinishes.com/"><span style="color: #4f81bd;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a>, come back and comment which finish inspires you. I will announce the winner next Friday! </span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To see more of Leslie Sinclair’s work and Segreto Finishes click <a href="http://segretofinishes.com/"><span style="color: #2f79c5;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a></span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To visit her blog: Segreto – The Secret to Beautiful Living click <a href="http://segretosecrets.squarespace.com/"><span style="color: #2f79c5;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a></span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To listen to Leslie interviewed on The Skirted Round Table click <a href="http://skirtedroundtable.blogspot.com/2011/10/leslie-sinclair-visits-skirted_31.html"><span style="color: #2f79c5;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a></span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To order a copy of this gorgeous book click <a href="http://segretofinishes.com/the-book.html"><strong><span style="color: #2f79c5;">HERE</span></strong></a></span></div><div align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-52pylPZM5yk/T5C1qfjOX6I/AAAAAAAAHt0/AUOckMBxcP8/s1600-h/bunny-williams%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="bunny-williams" border="0" height="601" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--UnytvzuhP8/T5C1q9Fnp-I/AAAAAAAAHt8/vqp7nPZviVw/bunny-williams_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="bunny-williams" width="504" /></span></a></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Bunny Williams – BeeLine Home)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Finally, I am off to meet by BFF, Diane, at Market in High Point, NC! We’ll be shopping for clients and scouting out the new trends!! Can’t wait to bring back lots of pictures and inspiration for you!! See you a few days!!</span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Note: Willow Décor receives no compensation for book sales)</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(All content copyrighted by Willow Décor and not to be used with our permission. All photos property of Segreto not to be used with out consent) </span></div>

A Beautiful Giveaway then Off to Market!!!

(Designer: Kara Childress) When I first saw the work of Leslie Sinclair, owner of Segreto Finishes, I was mesmerized by her plaster finishes...

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An Artist’s Sculpture Studio

<p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xcqCH5L7sQ4/T0oeq-bckNI/AAAAAAAAHfY/MrSqPbvcypk/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%2525200%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 0" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7ZavTsxq89I/T0of6TO1_yI/AAAAAAAAHfo/4XkfDN5Bkqs/Artist%252520studio%2525200_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 0" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">One of my dreams is to have a studio. I love to paint, dabble in sculpture and of course, it would be wonderful to have a dedicated space for my interior design business.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IH7gr3nogZk/T0of6-nMrVI/AAAAAAAAHfw/fY1yE0IjlNw/s1600-h/artist%252520studio%25252012%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="artist studio 12" border="0" height="476" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Gvrd7kH3sCE/T0of7UeYl5I/AAAAAAAAHf4/0VuGYgPgWYY/artist%252520studio%25252012_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="artist studio 12" width="604" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Designer David Coote took a small garden shed and created the most amazing Artist’s Sculpture Studio and Retreat.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aupl0DZ9J60/T0of7l5aCYI/AAAAAAAAHgA/5SKnIiaNtZE/s1600-h/artist%252520studio%2525209%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="artist studio 9" border="0" height="476" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gvS5Nk-DqDA/T0of8NAQCQI/AAAAAAAAHgI/7J8orBLzK8c/artist%252520studio%2525209_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="artist studio 9" width="604" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Though not very large in scale, it is enormous in charm and function. As you enter you can see a daybed to the right and straight on you can see the studio area. Notice the skylights and windows. There is literally light from almost every angle.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-X_085YUsXj4/T0of8tp-8NI/AAAAAAAAHgQ/YEwz6XdSJok/s1600-h/artist%252520studio%25252011%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="artist studio 11" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dKmjyMw4Nd4/T0of9E_CouI/AAAAAAAAHgY/LhaS_75ExUI/artist%252520studio%25252011_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="artist studio 11" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Here is a closer look at the studio. I love that the back wall is covered in old barn board and the floors are stunning!</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZbhtC4iV43k/T0of9uzaHVI/AAAAAAAAHgg/9Mi1gItnFyc/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%2525202%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 2" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GMOtdqSRgJI/T0of98ufceI/AAAAAAAAHgo/vdHFLd8qkjY/Artist%252520studio%2525202_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 2" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">A small pot belly stove keeps the studio toasty warm in the cooler months.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LfuA_1VIbQA/T0of-XeNUKI/AAAAAAAAHgw/SQSjyK-wEqY/s1600-h/artist%252520stduo%2525204%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="artist stduo 4" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Oy9klP_HGgQ/T0of-6k3ujI/AAAAAAAAHg4/e2O-ih-_RnU/artist%252520stduo%2525204_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="artist stduo 4" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">And there is even a small hot plate when you need to re-charge and have a bit of tea!</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JV34VM2A8Es/T0of_VTi-2I/AAAAAAAAHhA/hA2NMX2Hg5c/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%2525202d%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 2d" border="0" height="476" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NkraSWh8P_8/T0ogAID42qI/AAAAAAAAHhI/yEHxPmNwKD4/Artist%252520studio%2525202d_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 2d" width="604" /></a>.</p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">To the right is another bed in a bit of alcove. Notice the lovely window and beautiful open beamed ceiling</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fcd9Uo3HFmI/T0ogAnT_c5I/AAAAAAAAHhQ/IPGuhcygWs0/s1600-h/Artist%252520stduio%2525202a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist stduio 2a" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-y5zT_ttmN2Q/T0ogA6XjA8I/AAAAAAAAHhY/h7riW0sSwCY/Artist%252520stduio%2525202a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist stduio 2a" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">A close up shows old brackets and barn wood shelves for storing old casts and an antique wash tub to hold towels and cleaning supplies.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SnxtZRIJmck/T0ogBS6B6nI/AAAAAAAAHhg/CFdxPF6kytQ/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%2525206%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 6" border="0" height="476" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eMRVGJ_Kkwg/T0ogBz0fuEI/AAAAAAAAHho/jP0D7hm-ny8/Artist%252520studio%2525206_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 6" width="604" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">The alcove also has wonderful skylights. I expect the light floods this studio and changes all day creating the most interesting patterns.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cTeqUnlqIyw/T0ogCP0glpI/AAAAAAAAHhw/zTV352_XKL8/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%25252010%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 10" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UmFM_LxicZg/T0ogCh4pt3I/AAAAAAAAHh4/NhqojU1u8Aw/Artist%252520studio%25252010_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 10" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">There is even a wash basin and water to freshen up – so charming!!</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xC-VEPfS3tg/T0ogDFE1Q9I/AAAAAAAAHiA/Lq2rZ-MtXgQ/s1600-h/Artisit%252520studio%2525203%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artisit studio 3" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u6Cp0EkEQ7Y/T0ogDT9Pp8I/AAAAAAAAHiI/HBz9e0CfKtA/Artisit%252520studio%2525203_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artisit studio 3" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Notice the old re-purposed closet doors which hide all the sculpture supplies.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-lrpxVoj8EF8/T0ogDxdBImI/AAAAAAAAHiQ/9EeAWBp43rA/s1600-h/Artist%252520studio%2525203a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Artist studio 3a" border="0" height="476" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WcjWuBJMBng/T0ogEQMdBLI/AAAAAAAAHiY/fHaKViHp4bY/Artist%252520studio%2525203a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Artist studio 3a" width="604" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">And these doors swing open to let even more light and the lovely gardens in.</span></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vu0RYevyEQg/T0ogE27_rqI/AAAAAAAAHig/NEC-1Z4nsBk/s1600-h/artist%252520studio%252520a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="artist studio a" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-b2JfIleQZJk/T0ogF69ioyI/AAAAAAAAHio/6pTKwInbHVc/artist%252520studio%252520a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="artist studio a" width="504" /></a></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Could you ask for a more inspiring place to work?! So readers, here is one of my dreams – an Artist Studio!</span></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">To see more of David Coote’s work click </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.davecoote.com/cabins/168/sculture-studio-1">HERE</a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">. To see two other fabulous Artist Studios click </span><a href="http://willowdecor.blogspot.com/2009/02/dreamy-artists-loft.html"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#4bacc6;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> and </span><a href="http://willowdecor.blogspot.com/2010/03/london-artist-studio-to-guest-cottage.html"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#4bacc6;">HERE</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.</span></p> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">(All content copyrighted and property of Willow Décor, all photos <a href="http://www.davecoote.com/cabins/168/sculture-studio-1">David Coote</a>)</span></p>

An Artist’s Sculpture Studio

One of my dreams is to have a studio. I love to paint, dabble in sculpture and of course, it would be wonderful to have a dedicated space f...

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Artist Studio To Guest Cottage

<div align="center"><span style="color:#ffff00;"></span><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478671474867458" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6ABU5vQI/AAAAAAAAER8/ixrMHl92nsc/s400/foster-house-openview-02.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> I am always intrigued by spaces that were artist studios and have become living spaces or the other way around. Perhaps it's knowing that someone put their heart and soul into creating there or would be trying to create beauty makes the space very romantic to me. I was sent this wonderful little house that was formerly an artist studio and the new owners turned it into a guest cottage.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445480572436985698" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I7uq9lt2I/AAAAAAAAESk/j1nIxAKZ948/s400/Brooke+Artist+loft.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">We are not strangers to peeking inside of artist studios on the blogs. You surely will recognized this gorgeous pool house turned artist studio created by Brooke and Steve Giannetti. Read all about this incredible space <a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/.a/6a00e554d7b82788330120a55eccf8970b-500wi&imgrefurl=http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/velvet_and_linen/2009/09/219-north-cliffwoodthe-pool-house-turned-into-artists-studio.html&usg=__AJRP_ejne5E5gfAJWTzY-phpaG0=&h=753&w=500&sz=71&hl=en&start=14&sig2=Dv2GInicEbCkzbqb6Hu5uQ&um=1&itbs=1&tbnid=qwAnM8eLgQ7LtM:&tbnh=142&tbnw=94&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dartist%2Bpool%2Bhouse%2Bbrooke%2BGiannetti%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG%26rlz%3D1T4GGLL_enUS302US302%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=8jqSS5aCKcbHlwePk8D6AQ">here.</a><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445480577183236274" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I7u8pLwLI/AAAAAAAAESs/Cqdra5YnC5o/s400/Artist+studio+and+loft.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></div>Or this urban loft and artist studio I wrote about last year designed by Ochs Design. Read about this fabulous space <a href="http://willowdecor.blogspot.com/2009/02/dreamy-artists-loft.html">here</a>.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445483111670343634" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I-CeV_59I/AAAAAAAAES0/jc5qwB0BIkQ/s400/foster-house-openview-03.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> Named "Openview", because of its spectacular views of the English countryside, this artist studio turned guest cottage is located just outside of London. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478689978724370" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6BGQkMBI/AAAAAAAAESc/cMwY3wVN7bY/s400/foster-house-openview-09.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> Upon entering you immediately notice the open, airy style and wonderful light. Both indicative of why it was a great artist studio to begin with.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478678329950274" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6Aa3SAEI/AAAAAAAAESM/gscx_KM98cE/s400/foster-house-openview-05.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />The furnishings are warm and inviting. Danish white soaped floorboards add a wonderful patina and ambiance to the entire space. Notice how a wicker trunk becomes a coffee table and a stack of book a side table. I love the mirror leaning to the right.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6AiUq6rI/AAAAAAAAESU/beUZYKz-H8s/s1600-h/foster-house-openview-06.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478680332266162" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6AiUq6rI/AAAAAAAAESU/beUZYKz-H8s/s400/foster-house-openview-06.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Cathedral ceilings and sheer white linen curtains create a dreamy environment. I love the small desk and collection of framed pressed flowers. The folding bistro chair is wonderful. Clearly there is space to still paint here.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6AUCXChI/AAAAAAAAESE/YrCR1-dHvHw/s1600-h/foster-house-openview-04.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478676497369618" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I6AUCXChI/AAAAAAAAESE/YrCR1-dHvHw/s400/foster-house-openview-04.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Here is a closer look of the living area. Notice the old worn chairs that do not match and floral couch. Everything is broken in and muted. It makes you feel like you can sit right down and relax.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478300847301618" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I5qcoZ4_I/AAAAAAAAERs/9T0pW2FnQ4s/s400/foster-house-openview-16.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 373px; CURSOR: hand" /> In the dining/kitchen area an old church bench is painted white and paired with an old farm table and bench. White paint unifies the non matching collection. You can see how the painted concrete floors tie in seamlessly with the outdoor antique brick patio. I love the series of prints hung behind the bench.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478292745137042" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I5p-csq5I/AAAAAAAAERk/L3a0bSeqITk/s400/foster-house-openview-17.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> Opposite the table is the kitchen area. Enameled appliances, open shelving and old fashion linen skirting continue the cottage charm.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478292860818274" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I5p-4R02I/AAAAAAAAERc/-nR6TXkrXiQ/s400/foster-house-openview-19.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> Here is a closer view. Notice the apron front sink, a must in any cottage kitchen.<br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I5qp0GkvI/AAAAAAAAER0/zxgXxFr9v5A/s1600-h/foster-house-openview-13.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445478304386028274" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S5I5qp0GkvI/AAAAAAAAER0/zxgXxFr9v5A/s400/foster-house-openview-13.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> We end with a soak in the tub in a dreamy bathroom. I love the multiple mirrors. This is a simple and inexpensive decorating idea to add drama to a space. I think the owners did a great job of keeping the charm and creating a comfortable house for their guests.</div><div align="center">.</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div align="center">Don't forget to subscribe to Willow Decor in the upper right corner! Have a great weekend!</div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">.</span></div><span style="font-size:78%;">(all photos beach studios to see more of this cottage click </span><a href="http://www.beachstudios.co.uk/property/141/foster-house-openview/"><span style="font-size:78%;">here</span></a><span style="font-size:78%;">)</span> </div></div>

Artist Studio To Guest Cottage

I am always intrigued by spaces that were artist studios and have become living spaces or the other way around. Perhaps it's knowing th...

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A Dreamy Artist's Loft

<div align="center">I take a painting class every Friday. I love to paint seascapes. The teacher puts on some wonderfully <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">soft</span> music and brews us Cinnamon Tea. I sit on my stool and try to imagine the real sea. While I paint my mind wanders and I dream of where I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">would</span> paint if I was "real" artist. Here is a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">picture</span> of an artist's loft in NYC. It comes pretty close to my dream.<span style="font-size:78%;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123375807984802" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Saawl4o09KI/AAAAAAAABf8/A5ybzLjkU5A/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">All photos <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ochs</span> Design</span></div><div align="center">The 2700 sq ft abandoned warehouse space was converted and renovated into an artist's loft by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ochs</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Design</span>. The painting studio retains the original industrial asphalt floor. The light is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">incredible</span>!</div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123378383442690" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SaawmCO3UwI/AAAAAAAABgM/jOv0nhkhNnE/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">The studio work table was fabricated from stone and wood left behind by former commercial occupants decades earlier. Only the steel frame is new. I love the wonderful mix of textures every <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">where</span> you look.</div><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123376730027074" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Saawl8EqNEI/AAAAAAAABf0/TFNKgnDkHaY/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <p align="center">Platforms replace walls to define the living space. To the right is the painting <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">studio</span> to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">the</span> left the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">living</span> area. Raw industrial surfaces provide the backdrop for art and sculpture. A large skylight lets in daylight to paint by.<br /></p><div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123375633561730" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Saawl3_PeII/AAAAAAAABgE/StC6Mqc6SLc/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">The client's desire to leave the space as open as possible led to this luminous fabric sleeping enclosure. Isn't this so romantic?<br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SaawmBHhi1I/AAAAAAAABgU/JkWOyas_zHI/s1600-h/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg5.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123378084219730" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SaawmBHhi1I/AAAAAAAABgU/JkWOyas_zHI/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 323px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I love the spare furnishings - what a wonderfully <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">unique</span> side <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">table</span>.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307123511934704626" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Saawtzv92_I/AAAAAAAABgc/s7Kh4eli4OY/s400/Ochs+Design+loft.jpg6.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div><div><div>The client likes to cook and entertain. The spacious open kitchen features a 1925 bistro table that seats 16 people. I could have some great parties here!</div><div></div><div>Just wanted to give you a peek of where I dream about painting when I finally get discovered!</div></div></div><br /></div>

A Dreamy Artist's Loft

I take a painting class every Friday. I love to paint seascapes. The teacher puts on some wonderfully soft music and brews us Cinnamon Tea....

Read more »