Decorating Ideas Using Maps

Maps show us where we have been and where we are headed. They teach us about the past and let us dream about the future. The graphic qualities maps possess make them perfect décor for the home. Here are some wonderful spaces and products that feature maps:

{child's bedroom with nautical map wallpaper from Elle Décor via Nursery Notations}

{parsons map table by Serena & Lily}

{world map wallpaper in bedroom designed by Steven Gambrel via Decorpad}

{antique map on the ceiling in this hallway via Martha Stewart}

{Paris map in bedroom designed by Alice Lane}

{Around the World Letter from Urban Outfitters}

{collection of framed maps in a bedroom by Ralph Lauren}

{world map centered above a modern crib in a nursery designed by Brad Ford via Lonny}

{National Geographic planet earth globe by Spherical Concepts on One Kings Lane}

{colorful world map accent wall in boy’s bedroom designed by Robin Karp Interiors}

{world needlepoint pillow by Jonathan Adler}

{brown & green playroom with North American map. Designed by Westbrook Interiors Decorpad}

{boy’s bedroom with USA map and earth globe designed by Ron Marvin via TradHome}

{diy map drawer liner idea by Martha Stewart}

{recycled maps as wrapping paper – again by Martha Stewart} 

You won't believe where these beautiful rooms are from!

I was shocked - really - when I opened up the most recent issue of the Ballard Designs catalog. They've really upped the ante on their styling. It's relaxed and glamorous at the same time. (Click on each image for a larger view)

Love cream and light blue



I like the Moroccan style rug in the picture above. They have it in a couple other colors as well.









I like their home office setups


So what do you think?
via Ballard Designs

Gorgeous inspiring images from my favorite blogs

I thought I'd pick up where I left off and continue with installments of "Favorite Images from my Favorite Blogs." I started this feature because I realized that as a blogger, I rarely had the time to peruse the blogs that inspired me to start blogging, or that I'd discovered while blogging. I hope you enjoy and that it ads a little brightness to your holiday weekend!...


(blogs featured in no particular order)


To begin, images from Pink Wallpaper

...no words...
again, no words...

I really like this chair - which I think is from Anthropologie...but I just don't know if I'd have the discipline to keep everything else in the room complementary


Next, a newly discovered blog for me- Loftlife Magazine

Liking the touches of glamour pared down with clean lines in this bedroom


Have you ever tried arranging your books by color like on this shelf?

Last but not least, Deco & Design



All these images are so serene...

Hope you enjoyed these and have a great holiday weekend!

What do you think of this Scandinavian beauty with a rustic twist

Happy Friday! I think this space out of House Beautiful is a refreshing change of pace in that it keeps with a lot of the Scandinavian characteristics we all know and love, but diverges from everything being based in white and takes on a warmer, more country feel. What do you think?

Love maps as art.



I always like to see another artist's inspiration board/work space.

The most interesting room in the world

So I had a reader come to me with a really fun request -

"Have you seen those Dos Equis commercials, about 'the most intersting man in the world?'
I have a library that I'd like to decorate like that - leather, skeletons, artifacts, books - and I was wondering if you could do a blog post on rooms that have that sort of 'worldly' look." -V

In case you're not sure about the ad she mentions - you can watch it here.

Here is a shot from the ad and two photos I found on the Dos Equis website.


Here are some images I dug up to provide some more ideas and inspiration for achieving that old-world, well traveled look.

This library is very similar because of the stone fireplace and rich upholstery and fabrics. Notice also a globe, stacks of old books, and the scientific painting of the skull.
via Fresh Home

From a Buenos Aires bed and breakfast.
via Claundine's Homes

Maps are an easy way to accomplish an worldly look, also they are affordable and widely available. You could even go to a used bookstore and find maps in books to cut out and display.
via Apartment Therapy

via Great Interior Design

via Ralph Lauren Home

two above via Style Rumors

via Design is Mine

via Point Click Home

Notice that in all of the rooms that dark walls instantly create a sense of intrigue. Also - keep in mind that most objects should not match -or come as a set. Curiosities and artifacts are gathered overtime from different places. You'll have different textures and colors in your fabrics, furniture, and objects.

An academic atmosphere also contributes to a worldly look - journals, good illumination, and organized collections.
via Point Click Home

Classic architectural sketches are also a nice touch - and can be found in flea markets and bookstores - even better if from your travels!
via Home Interior Design Themes

A faux stucco plaster treatment is a gorgeous way to create an antiquated look.
via Sandy Foster

Turn to libraries and museums for ideas.

Specimen drawers, apothecary jars, and specimen mounts are all ways to give your objects an "interesting" look. You can find these supplies at specimen and lab suppliers.
Two above images from via Curious Expositions

Thanks Victoria for a great idea! Does anyone else have some tips or ideas?