One Love: Pillows!

It's no secret that every decorator considers a great pillow to be their "secret weapon" -- something you can add to the mix to make a big impact for a small cost. We go crazy for pillows, and our inventory probably numbers over 100 of them.

Pillows play a major role in our new "Room Refresh" service (only $395 to update a room). Here are two projects we recently completed -- just try to imagine them without the pillows, or even with just solid pillows alone. The effect wouldn't be as fresh or colorful.

At many retailers, you can buy just the pillow covers without the insert, so you can easily switch out your pillows for less.

Here are two great new options at Ikea right now -- grab them while you can!

For more pillow inspiration, follow our Pillows pinboard on Pinterest. We're adding new stuff all the time!

Repurpose, Reuse -- Redesign!

Happy Earth Day! In honor of the efforts many of us are making to recycle materials in new and creative ways, we are sharing some pretty brilliant ideas that you can re-create in your own home.

First off, create a modern rustic headboard from some old wood planks and add your own sentiment . . .

 We love it! (from kirsty)

And we can always look to our local Anthropologie store for the most clever display ideas.

Got an empty plastic soda bottle? Got some bungie cord? Make a hanging planter!

Speaking of hanging, what about creating some original coat hooks?

I love how each hanger gives you two different hook options. From Better Homes & Gardens.

Another smart idea for using hangers in a fresh way . . .

From Creature Comforts, originally from Ohhh . . . Mhhh

And what about turning an old segmented window into a chalkboard calendar? Just paint the glass with chalkboard paint.

From loft & cottage, originally from Cookie mag.

What great ideas can you come up with? How can you repurpose everyday items or old stuff you find in your garage? Let us know in the comments below.

Candy Colors to Savor

In reviewing our latest pins on Pinterest, we notice a lot of bold, bright color. Maybe it's because we've had a rainy week here in Berkeley, or maybe it's just because we love color -- anytime, all the time. Here's some eye candy to inspire you:

(pinned via Jessica, via Marvelous Kiddo, via solidfrog, original source unknown)

(pinned via Jessica, via smallshopstudio, via rebecca june)

(pinned via Jessica, via Petite Alma, original painting by Cocoa and Hearts)

(pinned via elisangel, via flickr)

(pinned via Jessica, via interiors-porn.tumbler)

(pinned via Jodi McKee)

Happy weekend, and we hope you always color outside the lines!

Fabulous Flowers at Birch in SF

One of the best places in San Francisco to discover cool home decor is Hayes Street, where you'll find a little treasure shop called Birch. Birch offers two of our favorite things, flowers and magazines, in a beautifully designed space.

The matte black walls showcase the white ceramics and bright flowers, and you can find letterpress cards and design books tucked in between floral displays.

A wall of shelves house a great selection of design and art periodicals, including the international editions of Elle Decor and Anthology.

There's even some cool jewelry hanging from manzanita branches, and a well-curated selection of candles, journals, and other goodies on the shelves.

The next time your eyes need a special treat, stop by Birch, take in the loveliness, and take home some Spring blooms.