About Cristin

Interior Designer + Organizer + Blogger - Love to create functional, yet style-savvy spaces. Embracing quality over quantity. Loving life. Living now.

Author Archive | Cristin

Friday Finds :: New from McGuire Furniture

January 15, 2016 · Comments { 1 }

For over sixty years, McGuire Furniture has been synonymous with classic style, natural materials and quality craftsmanship. Their timeless furnishings hold their value and are cherished for generations.

Recently, McGuire released a new collection featuring two statement pieces by renowned designer Steven Volpe and 18 new designs from McGuire’s in-house designers. These introductions thoughtfully balance classic McGuire style with contemporary design sensibilities. My favorite aspect of the collection is the various materials incorporated including rattan, rawhide, weaving and blackened steel. The mix creates a soft yet contemporary feel that is as inviting as it is functional. I’ve selected a sampling from the collection to share with you today, but to see the whole collection visit McGuire.

product links: 1 // 2 // 3 // 6 // 5 // 6

Read full story By Cristin on January 15, 2016 in bookshelves, chairs, contemporary decor, Features, friday find, Friday Finds, furniture

2016 Decor Trends :: Modern Southwest

January 13, 2016 · Comments { 1 }

Over the past few years I’ve seen a revival of southwestern decor. The color schemes today are more muted (thank goodness) and when paired with clean-lined modern elements, the look can be super chic. So I can see why Santa Barbara based interior designer, Leslie Lundgren is predicting that this “Modern Southwest” style will be a continued trend in decorating for 2016.

I have noticed a movement towards Modern Southwest but in a subtle, organic way… however, it’s in no way a repeat of the 80’s southwest. It may be on a textile or a pattern or even accessories as illustrated in Kelly Klein’s home above. – Leslie Lundgren, Interior Designer

image sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

Read full story By Cristin on January 13, 2016 in Bedroom, bedrooms, design trends, Features, foyers, interior design, Interiors, Living Room, pattern, rugs, textiles

Friday Finds :: Vintage Safari Chairs

January 8, 2016 · Comments { 0 }

disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links, which means Simplified Bee receives commission if you make a purchase using these links.

Vintage safari chairs seem to be popping up in more and more interiors. I’m personally drawn to the clean and yet rustic style. The chair which sprung from campaign furniture in the 19th century was designed to easily break down for travel. Mid-century Scandinavian designers such as Kaare Klint and Arne Norell created versions of the safari chair that are in high demand today. If you are considering purchasing a vintage safari chair or two for yourself and the price tag has you shying away, you may consider CB2’s expat lounge chair or Bed Bath and Beyond’s Safavieh Dilan Safari Chair.

On my search for the perfect safari chair, I’ve rounded up a few both vintage and contemporary that caught my eye…

product links:

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

Which one is your favorite?

*first image via

Read full story By Cristin on January 8, 2016 in chairs, etsy, Features, friday find, Friday Finds, furniture, vintage

2016 Decor Trends :: Mad for Plaid

January 4, 2016 · Comments { 7 }

Happy 2016! I hope you had a joyful, relaxing holiday. Although sick for a good week, I was able to enjoy a white Christmas in our new home. There is something so magical about quiet snow falling, a crackling fire and spending quality time with family. It was a wonderful way to end 2015.

With a look at the year ahead, I thought it would be fun to ask several interiors designers what decor trends they think will dominate in 2016. To kick off the series today is Northern California designer, Julie Rootes who is predicting we will continue to be mad for plaid. I agree and am loving the revival in the classic pattern.

Even though plaid is trending big time in the fashion world from shirts to shoes to everything in between, plaid is holding its own in the world of interiors. I find it can give the perfect kick to any space while still maintaining its traditional roots. From a small accessory like a pillow to decorating an entire room – a la Scot Meacham Wood (image above via Traditional Home) – it packs the perfect punch. – Julie Rootes