The perfect patio?

I'm crazy for these pictures, and derailed yet again. Just when I thought I'd settled on the black and white cushions for my patio, I came across these images of a rooftop garden on an old brick building. 

I love the feel of a true patio garden, with potting benches, antique linens and flea market finds. 

Imagine sitting out here with friends eating artisan cheeses + figs, with lots of bread, chased down by Lillet on ice (my fav summer drink!). My husband would be opening bottles of red wine for everyone. I'll be wearing this little mini tunic dress....

and listening to this hauntingly beautiful Carla Bruni remake of the old song You Belong To Me. (It was her thumbing her nose at the critics as she and Sarkozy vacationed along the Nile.)

As afternoon turned to night, guitars would come out and we'd sit under the glow of that giant chandelier of candles.

On that note, I'm off to meet my date/hubby at our favorite village restaurant. Happy Weekend!

Images: patio, Shannon Fricke; tunic on sale for $165! net-a-porter; sandals, Elizabeth+James

The Great Outdoors

First off, I do apologize for the long hiatus! I have been a little MIA. I wish I could say it was basic summer laziness, but the truth is I've been busier than ever! However, this morning I spent sipping my tea and visiting some of my favorite girls. I'm recharged and very inspired.

After months of working on other peoples' places, I've finally started to address the outdoor areas of my own home. I know, it's mid-summer, but considering we entertain outside nearly all year here, It's never too late. This week I'll be sharing lots of thoughts on outdoor spaces.

I'm really loving the ethnic inspired, loungey boho chic feel. There are some great outdoor ikats around these days...

Windsor Smith

Eddie Ross

(Okay technically it was more "event"  than "outdoor")

Veranda

This one above looks like the perfect spot for a margarita party.

Delight by Design

Blue and white still feels so cool and fresh...

               

House Beautiful

I'm finding these two images particularly inspiring, with black and white, boxwood topiaries. Classic yet fun. If only I had room for a tented cabana.

designactually

I think I might be headed toward a patio of Black and White. Think I'll start by painting my old navy wicker black...

House and Garden

Stay tuned...

By the way, we're shooting the latest project this week. Can't wait to show you how that Nantucket style house of blues came out. As soon as I get the shots from the photographer, I'll share them with you all.