Valentine's Inspiration

<div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301866700232681362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SZQDrGHXZ5I/AAAAAAAABWg/jIoVD52FzP4/s400/di2.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /><span style="font-size:78%;">Lilla Blanka</span> <div align="center">Here is a lovely tray filled with moss. A simple but sweet way to bring some Valentine's spirit to you room.</div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SZQDrLDWoVI/AAAAAAAABWo/LtcjSkFjZ-A/s1600-h/dunbracklance_full.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301866701558030674" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SZQDrLDWoVI/AAAAAAAABWo/LtcjSkFjZ-A/s400/dunbracklance_full.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a><br /><div align="center">Or how about another whimsical piece from folk artist, Rich Dunbrack?<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SZQDrIIitvI/AAAAAAAABWY/6FEG5A3E_iA/s1600-h/valentines.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301866700774487794" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SZQDrIIitvI/AAAAAAAABWY/6FEG5A3E_iA/s400/valentines.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> flikr</span></div><div align="center">Or my favorite, chocolate cupcakes with Necco "SweetHearts" on a simple, white dish! Yummy! </div><div align="center">Have a wonderful day and let those special to you know they are loved!! </div></div>

Valentine's Inspiration

Lilla Blanka Here is a lovely tray filled with moss. A simple but sweet way to bring some Valentine's spirit to you room. Or how about ...

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Cuffs Cove in Edgartown

<div align="center">Here is a fantastic home in Cape Cod! It is hidden in a small enclave in Edgartown, Massachusetts, called Cuffs Cove. Another gem designed by Hutker Architects. </div><div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386399330892882" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX9E0sWfFI/AAAAAAAAAyM/xxlPIuUEIN0/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_01.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /><span style="font-size:78%;">All photos from Hutker Architects website</span></div><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX9EwsjR-I/AAAAAAAAAyE/YI3dZ0UGDKA/s1600-h/cuffs_cove_compound_02.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386398257989602" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX9EwsjR-I/AAAAAAAAAyE/YI3dZ0UGDKA/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_02.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> As usual we find spectacular architecture! This room really needs no adorning. What an unbelievable fireplace - a testament that great mason craftsman still exist. Simple upholstery , almost no accessories, allow the architecture of the room to speak. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386229073117314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX866bvAII/AAAAAAAAAx0/8KaK5YH5TDA/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_04.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The kitchen continues the wonderful post and beam design. I love the use of the butcher block with the solid surface counter. Notice the overhead lighting used, soft schoolhouse house pendants which cast a soft glow rather a harsh overhead light from canned recessed fixtures. Very simple cabinets, hardware and backsplash tile. Again your focus is on the architecture of the room. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386397077307282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX9EsTDf5I/AAAAAAAAAx8/jeV3PaV0oyU/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_03.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The Solarium! A serene space, again using a very neutral palette so the focus is on the incredible conservatory. I love the zinc lantern!<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386220079028034" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX86Y7YF0I/AAAAAAAAAxs/9tJenUE4DhU/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_06.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Walkway to pool and outdoor entertaining area. I have always preferred grass walkways to complete stone walkways. I like the contrast of texture and especially the way the grass softens the hardscapes. The addition of the pergolas, calling out for climbing roses, will be quite beautiful in the summer.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386212066151986" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX857E9TjI/AAAAAAAAAxk/Pz_poU52BC8/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_07.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> Care for a dip in the pool or a cocktail?<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX85iCIqTI/AAAAAAAAAxc/CTDZ9bkoAIk/s1600-h/cuffs_cove_compound_08.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257386205343426866" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SPX85iCIqTI/AAAAAAAAAxc/CTDZ9bkoAIk/s400/cuffs_cove_compound_08.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> A beautiful home on Cape Cod, with architectural detail that speaks for itself! </div>

Cuffs Cove in Edgartown

Here is a fantastic home in Cape Cod! It is hidden in a small enclave in Edgartown, Massachusetts, called Cuffs Cove. Another gem designed b...

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Zinc Counters & Zinc Tables

<div align="center">What is it about zinc counters and tables? Maybe its the juxtaposition of a material that should be cold yet exudes such a warmth and tactile feel. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298718349629434786" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjUQ-KBq6I/AAAAAAAABRY/0RlotcUoED4/s400/zinc+-reclaimed+home.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.handcraftedmetal.com/zinc_products.html">Handcrafted Metal </a><br /></span>Above is a kitchen I adore! Perhaps its also the white cabinetry and soapstone which you all know I am so partial to, but also I love the worn look of the center island. It is a material you just want to touch. It looks like an actual family lives here!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjZTtjsJBI/AAAAAAAABTI/SDkhQqqyF9Y/s1600-h/zinc-countertop-wide.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298723894271419410" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjZTtjsJBI/AAAAAAAABTI/SDkhQqqyF9Y/s400/zinc-countertop-wide.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> Metallo Arts</span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjZKWhGnEI/AAAAAAAABTA/H6AI3NVeDg8/s1600-h/zinc+metallo+arts.jpg"></a>Here is a lovely countertop that my friend, Paul Anater of Kitchen and Residential Design just posted last week. Paul is very talented kitchen designer and writes a wonderful blog. Be sure to check out his work and his excellent eye for design at <a href="http://paulanater.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-01-31T06%3A18%3A00-05%3A00&max-results=5">http://paulanater.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2009-01-31T06%3A18%3A00-05%3A00&max-results=5</a><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298718352046332818" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjURHKQm5I/AAAAAAAABRw/et8VU-mocSE/s400/pewter-island%2520.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 370px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 247px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">St Clair</span><br />What a wonderful time worn look in this kitchen - but its brand new! Isn't it wonderful? I love the edge detailing on the zinc. Here is a great example of excellent craftsmanship.<br /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298718047401963490" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjT_YRYb-I/AAAAAAAABRQ/l-tNvAr15Xo/s400/zinc+rachiele.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 188px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Rachiele<br /></span>Here is another example of an edge style. These details really add to finished feeling of the room.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298698038327907490" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjBysqYFKI/AAAAAAAABQY/T0scRj8i1uU/s400/zinc5.bmp" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Brookswood</span><br />Here is a more simple edge style but the results are beautiful. The patina of the zinc really adds to this rooms farmhouse feel.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298698019831226642" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjBxnwbIRI/AAAAAAAABQI/evhkO_rOb74/s400/zinc+brooks2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 360px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Brookswood<br /></span>Another simple edge with great results. Not sure if the perimeter is soapstone or zinc, but either way the results are lovely. It is also a surface that can be mixed easily with other materials. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298718047382053666" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjT_YMooyI/AAAAAAAABRA/GOvJDDFTGsI/s400/zinc+metallo+arts.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298718045422783906" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjT_Q5gjaI/AAAAAAAABRI/kyM1naNNP6U/s400/zinc+metallo+arts2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /><span style="font-size:78%;">Metallo Arts</span><br />If the plain edge seems too rustic for you, here are some beautiful edge details which can be incorporated into your design. With so many design options, this is a surface which can be used in many different styles of homes.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298698027844122322" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjByFm2NtI/AAAAAAAABQQ/Bt-QjYVIngE/s400/zinc3.bmp" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298697989016572242" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjBv09o0VI/AAAAAAAABQA/MUm2z86B504/s400/zinc+brooks.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 360px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Brookswood</span><br />Not sure about zinc in the kitchen? The bar and pantry above serve as a great way to add in the patina and texture with out the huge commitment of having it as your center island surface.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720828940991442" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWhST9u9I/AAAAAAAABS4/ysoKRPvfAgc/s400/Ground.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 317px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Groundworks</span><br />Of course zinc is not limited to counters. There are many styles of tables available too. I love this Gatehouse base!<br /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720830547861714" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWhYTEoNI/AAAAAAAABSw/BvGygfEFTmk/s400/ground2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 172px; CURSOR: hand" /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWha1_aHI/AAAAAAAABSo/azcQ9ud-zPY/s1600-h/Ground3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720831231191154" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWha1_aHI/AAAAAAAABSo/azcQ9ud-zPY/s400/Ground3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWC1S4IrI/AAAAAAAABSY/NczDWK7H2V4/s1600-h/grOUND4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720305755726514" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWC1S4IrI/AAAAAAAABSY/NczDWK7H2V4/s400/grOUND4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 254px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I love all three of these tables from Pennsylvania - Any one of them would perfect in my new breakfast room - how to decide?<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWCI_7d5I/AAAAAAAABSI/IJMQvsYEmlQ/s1600-h/GROUNAVANTEGARD2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720293865093010" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWCI_7d5I/AAAAAAAABSI/IJMQvsYEmlQ/s400/GROUNAVANTEGARD2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWBwCpJGI/AAAAAAAABSA/UzU3GT-_Nmc/s1600-h/GROUNAVANTEGARD.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298720287165588578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYjWBwCpJGI/AAAAAAAABSA/UzU3GT-_Nmc/s400/GROUNAVANTEGARD.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Or perhaps I should stop by Avant Garden in New York? More beautiful examples!</div><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298734492126264242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYji8lpLu7I/AAAAAAAABTY/v0Kyc5KLW2Y/s400/treillage.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 210px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298734491579169570" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SYji8jmvuyI/AAAAAAAABTQ/j8KtObXwcrA/s400/zinc+bumny.gif" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 207px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div>Finally, of course, we could stop by Treillage, Bunny Williams store in NYC , and pick up one of these fabulous finds. Adding zinc to your home, how could you go wrong?</div></div><br /></div></div>

Zinc Counters & Zinc Tables

What is it about zinc counters and tables? Maybe its the juxtaposition of a material that should be cold yet exudes such a warmth and tactil...

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