Singing the blues (indigo, that is!)

It seems everywhere we look we find new ideas in denim and indigo. Across fashion, furniture, accessories and decor -- the saturated rich blue is prevalent.

Indigo has long been a versatile and favorite color among designers. This indigo color palette created by legendary color expert Eve Ashcroft was featured on Remodelista, showing the wide variety of possibilities within the color family:

For a truly over-the-top indigo scene, check out John Robshaw's bedroom, featuring his own products.

(from Elle Decor, December 2012)

That headboard! Those bed linens! And that deep blue wall color!

The living room below offers a more subdued use of the powerful blue -- set off beautifully by the otherwise neutral palette.

(from Elle Decor, December 2012)

On a recent shopping trip to the Temescal district, we stopped in Esqueleto, which is featuring some beautiful dyed bags and throws from local artists Job & Boss. They are created using a traditional Japanese Shibori method.

And our good old stand-by, West Elm, also offers some great indigo treats for your home.

The Watercolor Brushstroke wall art, $199

The Sweep Armchair, on sale right now for $594.

When it comes to fashion, look no farther than Anthropologie and this cute Patchwork Chambray button down shirt:

How do you show off your indigo? Let us know in the comments below.

Making a small home live big

Are you familiar with the saying "Less is More"? Well, last week we staged a home that really exemplifies this statement. The builders made such efficient use of the limited space that they were able to include an office, a game room, and a great outdoor area in addition to the two bedrooms, 1 bath and living room/dining room.

We chose our paint and decor color palette carefully to create an easy flow between the different sections of the house.

All photos courtesy of Lisa Ratner.

The front door opens into the living room, where we used a soothing mix of blue, grays and whites.

From the living room you can look past the beautiful wood columns (with closets inside!) into the dining room, kitchen and office. The blues, grays and whites continue, with an unexpected splash of yellow in the office.

The full chalkboard wall in the office is a fun (and useful) detail.

The two bedrooms are small but packed with character. We think the bright accent walls make the spaces have a bigger impact.

As great as the inside of the house is, it's the back deck, patio and plus room that really make it stand out among other small bungalows in the area.

The deck is accessible via french doors from the office or the master bedroom.

From the deck stairs you enter a good-sized patio that includes vegetable beds. It leads into the bonus room (doors on left), which is next to the garage.

Here's the diagram of the layout, where you can really see how well the space is used.

We are so impressed that such a small home can feel so spacious and livable.