Thoughts of Blue

As we say goodbye to January and welcome February, the days are feeling a bit longer and the sky a bit brighter. At least six more weeks of wintry weather are still ahead of us, so thoughts of blue are on my mind today. While many people favor more saturated hues of crisp blue with white, I prefer softer shades mixed with neutrals that remind me of sand and sky.

Cooler shades with pale grey show the Scandinavian influence. The yellow really makes it sing.

Sky blue works in just about any room and any locale. It is truly universal and adaptable.

Even a hint of blue, as in the inside of a cabinet, elevates a neutral palette. Notice the bright yellow bird cage in the corner. Just as in the image of the hallway above, it adds a further bit of sunshine to blue and neutral.

My Favorite Room, Part 2: More Bookshelves

Apparently, many of you are just as obsessed with bookshelves, particularly in a proper library, as I am. As a New Year's gift, here are some more of my favorites. I hope they prove to be as inspiring to you as they have been to me. Enjoy!

An early favorite from Domino. I love the sage green mohair armchair, Saarinen coffee table and funky brown/white rug. And those shelves just soar!

From Kate and Andy Spade's apartment. The contrast between the luscious red and the peacock blue leather chair makes my mouth water.

 An Ashley Whittaker media room in saturated in blue.

Who didn't drool over this Nate Berkus/Anne Coyle library in Elle Decor? No shelves in this image, but I had to include it anyway. It's a great reminder that art is integral to the success of a library, and this collection looks so relaxed and comfortable with the furnishings.

A masterpiece by Phillip Gorrivan from Elle Decor. This one in whites and neutrals, but just as effective as the more colorful examples, above. The coral lamp bases anchor the whole scene.

Who doesn't love a window seat integrated into a bookcase wall? I'm particularly fond of this image, as it shows our Milo leather armchair!

I don't have a source for this image, but it's a great reminder that artwork can look terrific mounted right on the shelves. I really like the way the rustic frame contrasts with the contemporary leather office chair and desk.