Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda...

Do you ever look at photographs of interiors and think about what you would have done differently? I go through this thought process constantly and find it's a natural reaction that can often help shape your own design palette. The above is Ralph Lauren's poolhouse bath in his Bedford home. I'm particularly drawn to the layering element thanks to the vignette of photographs and gorgeous table lamp on the bureau. I also love how the French bistro mirror commands the space while adding more depth to the room. (I have a thing for gold frames). There is an element of sophisticated ease that really speaks to me.

Although I am a fan of pedestal sinks despite their lack of surface space, I find this particular sink a tad too dated. I would love to see a pedestal sink with just a hint of modern shape while still keeping its traditional elements. Lastly, I absolutely despise the tile. I'd love to see a basket weave or hexagon marble tile to add a little sleek dimension and deter away from early 90's meets "looks like Kris Jenner picked the floor tile" vibe.

Even an area rug and different floor tile in the living area of the poolhouse (below) would do wonders! Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda...

About Town: Marin Country Mart

Thanks to an avid C&C follower and dear friend, she pointed me to Marin Country Mart in Larkspur. The outdoor shopping and dining oasis is enclosed by string lights and potted lemons trees, just a skip away from the Larkspur ferry terminal making the jaunt from the city effortless. It might as well be an advertisement for a utopian Bay Area society – attractive families are adorned in Patagonia puffers taking candid photographs, while others are sipping local wine and rehashing tales from their 60 mile morning bike ride to Pt. Reyes and back. Oh, California. Below is a snapshot of my afternoon - all of which are highly recommended pleasures:

First stop off the ferry: Maui Fish Tacos from The Taco Guys at the food tuck extravaganza known as "Off The Grid". YUM.

Second stop - exploring the shops: Lots of winter white and texture at the Calypso St. Barth store...need that clutch...and a trip to the actual St. Barths...

Next: Posted up at The FarmShop with a glass of wine to listen to a little bluegrass. The lad on the fiddle is a former Attorney General assistant from Tennessee - immediately a winner in my book (denim on denim et all).

Onward to: Malia Mills to find these fun swim caps then a bop next door to the bookstore to check out the Publication Party for Perry Ellis.

Last stop: A cappuccino from The Rustic Bakery to take in the last sights and sounds before boarding the ferry home...

On the way home we were treated to the most wonderfully pink sunset over the Golden Gate bridge. It was as if it were beckoning me back to the city. My eyes danced with absolute delight still savoring moments from my solo adventure.

Spotlight on: Backen, Gillam, & Kroeger Architects

Impressed by the architecture and design scheme at several frequented wine country destinations such as Ram's Gate and PRESS, I investigated. The discovery: an architectural firm behind a long list of projects - from wineries to hospitality and to my delight, several residences. Backen, Gillam, & Kroeger Architects has received several mighty awards for their outstanding projects and after examining their portfolio, it's no wonder why.

One of my favorite projects is a an Oakville residence (first photo above) comprised of a main home, pool house, children's club house and chicken coop (!). Another, is a St. Helena Farmhouse (just below). The designs blend traditional architectural styles with a California ease - pergolas beckoning you out to a saltwater pool protected by lush landscaping, open barn doors marrying a chef's kitchen and outside terrace as one, all positioned so that one may enjoy the best of each landscape. Every design celebrates outdoor living, one of the best gifts Northern California has to offer.

APT with LSD

I always look forward to Lauren Santo Domingo's "APT with LSD" column on Vogue.com and particularly enjoyed reading her most recent feature which showcases Rebecca de Ravenel's apartment in New York City. Having spent a great deal of time in the Bahamas, her style is a cool blend of Bahamian vintage infused with many traditional elements: upholstered sofas in bright florals with navy piping, rattan dining chairs huddled around a modern white lacquered table, a blue and white patio retreat amidst a lush canopy of ferns and tropical plants, all the while, the apartment is beautifully dusted with sentimental trinkets. Rebecca is able to convey a story about many of the items in her apartment, many of which are rooted in a deep family history or unique memory.