Now. . . And Then: Cristin of Simplified Bee

 

Thank you all so much for your comments on yesterday’s post.  I read every one of them—twice.  It reaffirms that the time and effort I put into this blog are worth every minute.  I’m feeling better today.  Thanks for bearing with me. 

 

Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming. . . 

 

Blogger: Cristin of Simplified Bee

 

 

 

 

 

 

What makes me cringe when I look back:

First off, I am sorry I couldn’t find better “before” images. Most of the older images had family and friends in them!

There are several things that make me cringe when looking back at our home a few year’s ago. We had brick red accents in the living room and dining room {which at the time I really liked!}. Today, I have blue & green accent colors. The wall is now a more calming blue. The color change was post-kids and perhaps the high energy red was not needed with high-energy toddlers! Life evolves and so should our interior designs.

 

What I love most about my home now:

I love that my home is full of windows that brings the outside in. It has a light and airy feel that is wonderful. Here in California our patios and backyards are considered just another room in the house. I enjoy entertaining family and friends outside most months out of the year.

In terms of interior design, my home flows so much better visually than it did a few years ago and I credit that to the interior design classes I have taken. I now follow my instincts and have taken more chances with artwork, rugs (notice the cow hide rug in our dining room) and furnishings that better communicate our lifestyle & personal style. It’s relaxed, functional and inviting, which I love the most.

 

The biggest influence on my evolving style has been:

There hasn’t been just one influence on my evolving style. It’s really a combination of several things including textiles, blogging and shelter magazines.

My love for textiles is serious. Going to the design center to pull fabrics for a client is a wonderful part of my job and so inspirational. I adore all fabrics, but more recently I have been drawn to hand-blocked prints, suzanis and ikats. Sometimes a swatch of fabric is the starting point on a whole room design and that is exciting.

Blogging has also influenced my style. There are hundreds of exceptional design blog that provide endless inspiration. I am in awe daily at the massive creativity and talent that is out there. Blogging keeps me up-to-date on the latest in the industry too.

The shelter magazines have also been highly influential on my evolving style. I look at these magazines as the “runway” for interior design. These elite designers showcase interiors that sometimes push me out of our comfort zone and I love that.

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Thanks, Cristin, for sharing your evolving, laid-back style.  Check out her great blog here.

 

 

 

A big welcome to my newest sponsor, 

 

Have you seen this product?  Such a very cool way to transform simple IKEA furniture or vintage pieces for such a great price!  Check it out here.