Warming Up In California

 

While it is currently snowing in Chicago, and cars are treating Lasalle Street as a slip-and-slide, I have been in awe of the West Coast style in this chic home somewhere to the left. If I've said it once, I've said it a million times, I do love snow and cold, but I also like comfortable villa-type domiciles elsewhere. I'm not saying I want to live in these island-like getaways, but I can think about them. This specific home, styled by James Leland Day, is a mix of soft whites along with deep and rich beige. The natural and rustic element of the wide-planked vertical paneled walls throughout are nicely offset by the more clean-lined contemporary furniture. And the black and white photography scattered throughout the rooms are complimented by the silver frames, making them not so bold, but still having a major presence. All the rich woods seen throughout the home are really what make this home comfortable. Each room is better than the next, which is something that really makes a home what it should be.

 

Photos courtesy of James Leland Day

Villa Carlotta

Living in Los Angeles doesn't really interest me, however, if I had the chance to live in this expressive and trendy studio in the Villa Carlotta, I might reconsider. Of course space is always a commodity in any type of living space, including this villa, and the designer/owner was pretty savvy about making the most out of what she has. Her use of built-in furniture is staggering... the plywood couch and along with the cozy daybed do not seem like the typical DIY projects, the look and the feel each piece is very inviting. Not only is the home filled with handcrafted space-savers, but it is also scattered with unique finds... like the tree stump found on a golf course, or the Hollywood studio lighting, reconfigured to be used as a light over the dining table. Even thought it's a tiny villa, this chic California space can definitely hold its own when it comes to luxe living.

Luxe in Napa Valley

Who wouldn't want to live in Wine Country? The serene outdoor surroundings and views of rolling vineyards are hard to match... unless you live in this stunning Napa Valley manse. The subdued coloring throughout the house does nothing to overtake the gorgeous views that lie outside the expansive windows which look onto greenery of vineyards and wineries. The home is furnished with a mix of new and antique pieces, and obscure pops of color are spread throughout the house like the Dale Chihuly ceiling sculpture, and bright yellow piece of art gracing the landing of the custom staircase. Not only is the interior of the house gorgeous, but the outdoor space accentuates the magnificent views to the fullest extent. So grab the corkscrew, pour yourself a glass, and look at these swoon-worthy pictures of Wine Country at its best.