Southern Studio Interior Design

The bathroom is the one space that we use every day that should serve as a sanctuary from the stresses of daily life. Last weekend, I got into a discussion regarding the highly-debated topic Bath vs. Shower. There doesn’t seem to be any middle ground on this topic…you’re either a bath person or a shower person. Either way, there are so many luxurious options available.

I love this calming bath with free-standing tub, substantial vessel sinks and gorgeous chandelier.

A great walk-in shower!

Another soaking tub just waiting to be used.

This over-sized shower has multiple shower heads and a rain can shower.

This spa-like bath would be the perfect spot to soak after a long, hard day

So, what is your choice….shower or bath?  For me, my favorite is a simple outdoor shower after a long, hot day on the beach!

Images from Southern Accents, Elle Decor, Southern Living, Traditional Home.

Tomorrow I’m heading south to Point Clear, Alabama! I’ll be attending the annual Southern Living Custom Builder Program Conference. The Custom Builder Program consists of an excellent group of builders from across the south who are passionate about building custom homes with distinct southern charm. Everyone loves Southern Living, so the energy at the conference is contagious. I’ve been honored over the years to work with several of these fine builders, so it’s always a great weekend to catch up.

On Saturday, I’ve been invited to speak at the conference! The topic you ask? Well, in custom home design, it’s all about The Balance: Great Design, the Selection Process and the Reality of Budgets. It’s a difficult balance, but with the right team and proper planning, it can be a rewarding experience with beautiful results!

I hope it’s warm, so I can enjoy a morning run along Mobile Bay! I absolutely love the trail…bay on one side and beautiful homes with live oak trees on the other side.

I’ll share more details next week. Right now I need to wrap up the loose ends in the studio.

Did you know Southern Studio Interior Design is on Facebook?  Become a Fan and stay on top of the latest happenings and design trends.  Feel free to join the discussion and ask questions.

I have to say, I resisted entering into this virtual world, but I’m so glad I did. In the past few years we’ve lost so many great shelter magazines. I still say that there’s nothing like flipping the pages of a magazine with beautiful photography of gorgeous interiors, but a lot of design inspiration is now found in the virtual world of design blogs and Facebook pages. There’s so many great ideas out there to explore and I’m embracing the new reality! That being said, I’m not canceling my magazine subscriptions any time soon. Join the fun…

Another new series? As part of the design process, I find myself researching trends and ideas every day! I’ve started to save photos for inspiration and often review them for a common theme.

In the past few weeks I’ve been faced with the challenge of filling large wall spaces. If you know me, you know I have a passion for original art (maybe that comes from my design school days where we were required to complete many classes in fine art). Sometimes the budget does not allow for original artwork, but I still believe what hangs on your wall should have personal meaning and bring inspiration.

One way to fill a large space, but still keep a unified design element, is to use a collection of framed art or photography. This botanical collection becomes a focal point in the dining nook.

A calming collection of shell prints add interest to this bedroom retreat.

Try a shadow box collection….this one is a collection of real shells.

To reflect your personal interests, try a collection of old maps in a study.

One of my favorite ways to personalize a home is to add a collection of photography, especially black and white photography. If you have children, take the time to capture the every day moments….it doesn’t need to be staged or formal. Keep it simple and playful. A local photographer who is progressive in her photography work is Aimee Laine. We recently met to brainstorm the concept of photography as art collections.  Check out her recent blog post on the topic.

I love how this collection brings a simple hallway to life!

Gather your collections, get out your camera (or call your photographer) and visit your framer! Before you know it, you’ll transform your home into something visually interesting and personal!  Have fun!

Images from Traditional Home, Southern Living, Veranda.