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Kitchens with Open Shelves

It’s a look that albeit isn’t for everyone, seems to be increasing in popularity: Kitchens with open shelves. Opening shelving in a kitchen will make the space seem larger and give an airy, uncluttered feel. It’s also a great way to display beautiful dishware. However, be mindful to select items that coordinate and to not overdo it – a jam-packed, cluttered shelf will only make the space feel smaller. If you are considering this look in your kitchen, I’ve pulled a variety of examples of  beautifully styled open shelves.

all white kitchen with open shelves

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kitchen with open shelves #kitchens

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kitchen with chrome and glass open shelves

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gray kitchen with open shelving

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kitchen with open shelves across the window

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For an easy way to have open shelves in your existing kitchen is to simply remover the cabinet doors, fill in the holes where the hinges were and paint inside and out. The example below is a kitchen that I think did just that.

kitchen with open shelves using existing cabinetry

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And speaking of kitchen design, I’m over the moon to be able to attend the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and the Design & Construction Week with BlogTour, presented by Modenus.com. Both tradeshows will be happening in Las Vegas the week of February 2-6. Along with a team of 14 other designers and design bloggers from both Canada and the U.S., I’ll have the opportunity to spot the latest trends and discover the newest products – all of which I will share with you here and on twitter  using #BlogTourVegas!  I’m so excited! A huge thank you and shout out to the sponsors of  BlogTour Las Vegas: KBIS, Blanco, Poggenpohl, Sub-Zero, Dekton, Mr Steam, Top Knobs, Wood-Mode, Formica Group, Walker Zanger and TOTO USA for giving me the opportunity!

Happy decorating,

Cristin

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Read full story By on January 14, 2014 in interior design, Interiors, Kitchen, kitchens

Design Reveal :: California Casual Chic Living Room

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

 

Open to the kitchen with a view of the backyard, my client envisioned a casual retreat that could stand up to all the kids’ play, yet still be chic. The result is an inviting, kid-friendly space that incorporates a fresh twist on traditional, mixes the old with new and features worldly accents. I’m thrilled to give you a tour of this California casual chic living room.

California casual-chic interior design - simplified bee

The color palette, of blues and gold was predetermined by the room’s wall color and roman shades. A pair of existing skirted sofas were reupholstered in woven golden fabric – although still a tailored look, they have a warm beachy feel. The seating area is anchored by a steel blue rug with a fresh pattern inspired by ancient Aztec tile.

California casual-chic interior design - simplified beerococo-style antique chair in schumacher fabric - simplified bee

A demilune table found at a local consignment store was placed behind the sofa and is flanked by a pair of elegant Rococo style chairs. The heirloom antique chairs were reupholstered in the beautiful Sinhala Linen (stone) by Martyn Lawrence Bullard for Schumacher. The traditional tree of life pattern really complements the chair’s ornate pierced splat back and curvy cabriole legs.

california chic living room // cristin priest of simplified bee

Between the sofas I placed a Moroccan inspired octagonal side table topped with a beautiful brass ring lamp, turquoise foo dog and a succulent that brings the outside in.  The sofas’ custom throw pillows in Sikar Embroidery (flax) also by Martyn Lawrence Bullard features an exotic ikat pattern that pulls together the color palette beautifully.

oval marble coffee table // california chic living room // simplified bee

Avoiding sharp corners, an oval coffee table with a gilded base and marble top was selected. The table was back-ordered forever, but worth the wait!

Stylish Built-in Bookcase - Simplified Bee

Remember this styled built-in bookcase? Here it is again with a few new accessories.

stylish bookshelves // cristin priest of simplified bee

I’m so happy with the way this space came together and so is my client. Love that!

Happy decorating,

Cristin

*photo credit: Jennifer Jacobson

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Read full story By on January 6, 2014 in antiques, bookshelves, chairs, chinoiserie, console tables, contemporary decor, curated look, home accessories, interior design, Interiors, Living Room, living rooms, simplified bee portfolio, throw pillows

My Favorite Posts of 2013

With the new year just days away, I’ve been reflecting on what a wonderful year it’s been (and how fast it went by!?). 2013 was another busy, yet rewarding year here at Simplified Bee. To celebrate, I’ve selected some of my favorite posts of 2013.

boy's bedroom with airplane art // simplified beeDesign Reveal: Traditional Boy’s Bedroom

Heart Valentine's Day Mug #valentinesValentine’s Day hot coco bar & diy XOXO banner

pink daybed girls bedroomInterview: Interior Designer Graciela Rutkowski

butterfly fiesta party ideas // simplified beeButterfly Themed Fiesta Party

designer bedroom with canopy bed by House of RubyPeninsula Decorator Show House :: Guest Bedroom by House of Ruby

San Francisco Decorator Showcase Living Room // Catherine KwongSan Francisco Decorator Showcase 2013 :: Living Room by Catherine Kwong

designer grey kitchen by Jute Interior Design // San Francisco Decorator ShowcaseSan Francisco Decorator Showcase 2013 :: The Family Kitchen by Jute Interiors

modern prince nursery room design board - Simplified BeeModern Prince Nursery Design Board

green and orange table setting // simplified beeSummer Tabletop

playroom ideas & essentials - Simplified Bee

 

Playroom Ideas & Essentials

playroom and guest room design // cristin priest // simplified beeDesign Reveal :: Playroom + Guest Room

I’ve been blessed to have amazing clients, faithful readers and loving friends and family who have supported this blog from the very beginning (May 2014 will be mark the 5 year anniversary!). Thank you so much!

Wishing you a happy, healthy 2014!

Cristin

 

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Read full story By on December 29, 2013 in Bedroom, Boy, brass, Girl, interior design, Interiors, Kitchen, kitchens, Living Room, Playroom, playrooms

Color of the Year 2014 :: Radiant Orchid

dining room with radiant orchid chairs

Pantone’s Radiant Orchid (18-3224), an  intriguing shade of purple associated with joy, love and good health, has been selected as 2014’s “it” color. The captivating tone is quite a contrast from last year’s Emerald Green and 2012’s Tangerine Tango.

Pantone Radiant Orcid - Color of 2014

An invitation to innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society. An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid draws you in with its beguiling charm.” – Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®

Radiant Orchid in Home Decor - 2014 Color of the Year

one // two // three // four // five // six // seven // eight

What do you think? Will your be embracing Radiant Orchid as the color of the year 2014?

Happy decorating,

Cristin

*first image via Pinterest

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Read full story By on December 17, 2013 in color, dining rooms, interior design, Interiors