interior design ideas: May 2012

Memorial Day's real meaning

My thoughts go out to the families who have lost loved ones (including innocent civilians), and my deep gratitude to those who have suffered the ultimate sacrifice.

This is an excerpt from a fallen Marine's letter to his family. He wrote this shortly before he was killed by a homemade bomb in Afghanistan:

"There will be a child who will live because men left the security they enjoyed in their home to come to his," Sgt. Stacey wrote in his letter. "He will have the gift of freedom which I have enjoyed for so long myself, and if my life brings the safety of a child who will one day change the world, then I know that it was all worth it."

I'm so excited!

I'm thrilled to announce that I won a gorgeous cuff bracelet giveaway from Andrea at Gypsy Yaya! Check out her blog and her cool Etsy shop for fun, boho gifts!

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

I can't wait to see this! Fantastic cast (Judi Dench and Maggie Smith are my favorite actresses), Indian location, and bohemian fun galore.

Plum Crazy

photos from various sources on Pinterest

books as handbags!

I squealed with glee (yes, really) when I saw these amazing handbags. Made by the talented Karen at Novel Creations on Etsy, these are actual books upcycled into fantastic bags. They were going to be thrown away at the used bookstore where she works, so this clever girl made something wonderful with them. Below are some of my favorites.

NH Architectural Firm Bonin Architects Launches New Website

Bonin Architects & Associates, a residential and landscape architectural firm in New London, NH, announces the launch of their newly redesigned website, www.boninarchitects.com. The new site highlights a new corporate image, details of services, and explains the approach to each individual project.

“We are very excited about this new website because we believe visitors will find it effective, user friendly, and one of the best ways we can explain – and show - our architectural services,” said KimberlyBonin, Principal Partner and Executive Project Manager.

“Our Architectural Portfolio is now broken down into three categories: Selected Projects, Under Construction, and On the Boards,” explains Jeremy Bonin, Principal Partner and Architect. “Projects have several photos in gallery style showing the architectural style, drawings, construction photos, unique details, and a description of the design program which outlines the strategy and goals of the building. Many of our clients have properties with specific challenges: Shoreland Protection restrictions, wetlands, tight setbacks, steep slopes, or close neighboring homes."

“Our services and fees have always been on our website, but now our landscape design and architectural services are outlined and explained in detail so visitors can see the benefit of working with an architect in designing a new home, addition, or remodeling their existing home,” Kimberly adds.