Catalog Heaven

I often think about gathering the catalogs that clutter my mailbox and shipping them back where they came from. Just like the old Seinfeld episode when Kramer boycotts the post office. But! This week, the new West Elm catalog made me rethink that plan. The colors and patterns are wonderful, and I love the photos too!

Jason Polan Drawings

So much cool stuff! The catalog feels so fresh and so fun. Much of that comes from West Elm's collaboration with outside designers and artists, (including several Etsy artists). In the spirit of collaboration, the West Elm site features some interesting articles written by artisans from around the world in the Hand/Eye section. 

Shane Powers collection

Etsy artists

I think I need these glasses! Another cool feature in the catalog and website is the list of recommended paint colors. Yeah! All of you who are scared of paint colors, go here and get some help:) Have I conveyed my excitement, well enough? West Elm, I'm sure you are holding your breath until you hear my opinion, so breathe easy now. Props, for a job well done!

Eclectic Christmas

Via Escapade 

Merry Christmas! I would like to say that before I write the rest of the article. You may be wondering why. Well, again we find ourselves at a time of year, I don't really like. Ahhhhh! How do I convey my feelings? As a Christian, I most definitely observe the meaning of Christmas and am grateful for all it includes. But, I DON'T LIKE THE DECORATING! Pretty much every year I say the same thing on this blog. So some of you may have heard this before. Sorry for that. For some reason, I always feel pressured to write something Christmas-y, even though; I really don't want to. So, as a way to deal with that dilemma, I write about small details that I do like. (You may also notice that I tend to put this off for as long as I can). 

Via Knock Knocking 

I haven't figured out why Christmas decorating disturbs me so much. I think its because it often seems tacky or forced. I don't like doing things just because it is "expected" of me or because everyone does it. Perhaps I need therapy? 

Okay, enough! I really don't like being negative, so I am concentrating on what I do like. Here are a few details that are very beautiful and unique.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas, is the gift wrapping. Every year I try to think of some new and unusual way of presenting gifts. I found these adorable pom-poms via Bugs and Fishes, here.  She includes a tutorial and many more gift wrapping ideas. 

Via Bugs and Fishes 

Via VT Interiors 

Yay, I may have a little Christmas spirit after all!!!

P.S. If you are looking for my Eclectic House  articles, they will be back after Christmas.

Industrial Beauty

(Via Rue Magazine)

This morning I was drooling over these photos from Sfgirlbybay. Finding metal lockers like these, is the sort of thing I dream about. What is even more beautiful is the harmonious way this industrial furniture fits into a soft and serene room.

Love all the small details!!

The top photos reminded me of this photo of Sarah Jessica Parker's home in Elle Decor. That little blue cabinet takes away any feeling of generic design. Its such a unique touch.

Some of the most fantastic industrial pieces I have seen are from Obsolete. If you have never seen their website, go immediately! I'll wait for you:)