Design Within Reach (No, Really!)

Vintage objects tell a story, and it's up to us to listen. Whether it's an old toy, a vase, or a set of vintage postcards, it's hard to imagine how many tales can be spun from just one item. Outside of New York City, it's easy to stumble across pristine vintage finds (I'm talking about you Detroit!), but within the confines of this city these gems are rare and pricey. However, some stores in Manhattan and its boroughs, continue to pride themselves on amassing items that evoke the beauty of the past without a hefty fee. Le Grenier (pictured above) is located on the waterfront in Greenpoint, just a few subway stops away from the city. The owner Maya Marzolf is a former producer of fashion photography who has worked with Steven Meisel and Mark Seliger, so you know her aesthetic is romantic and warm. The store is full of great antiques and housewares, and they also provide prop rentals for photo, film and other special events. Thankfully, they even carry replica Edison bulbs which are surprisingly hard to find in a city that is obsessed with recreating retro looks in both public and private spaces. But if you thought for one minute that Le Grenier was anything but authentic, think again. Marzolf's own home was recently featured on a blog, and although she "consider[ed] it a bit cringe-worthy to be “promoting” [her] own house" she spoke eloquently about the experience:

"I choose to share my own space with you just to illustrate that what I’m doing here at Le Grenier truly is a labor of love. As one of my dear friends phrased it, what better way to illustrate that my style is sincere? What I offer you at Le Grenier is not just something that I’m trying to sell; instead, it’s an aesthetic and lifestyle in which I myself partake."

And what a lovely aesthetic and lifestyle it is. Take a peek at Le Grenier's website, or saunter over to Brooklyn to check it out in person.

Design Within Reach (No, Really!)

Adorning your walls with art can be overwhelming, so why not solve the problem with a temporary fix? Wall decals are an easy way to add strong visual focus to a room, without the permanence of paint or the stress of hanging heavy artwork. There are companies that can design your very own vinyl decal, while others have a wide array of styles to choose from. Etsy is a great place to to find decals that are both unique and reasonably priced. ShaNickers based in Florida will even frame your very own text in a decal like the one pictured above. So get stickin' and breathe some much needed life into your bare walls.

Design Within Reach (No, Really!)

When it comes to fashion we can't get enough patterns and color statements, but somehow once we step into the confines of our homes that love disappears. I'm not sure why color within interior design is regarded with such trepidation - when you really think about it, it's just as temporary as a brightly hued blouse, or a pair of sassy red heels. If you think you've made a terrible mistake, or you just want to try something new, it's incredibly easy to slap on some white primer and start all over again.

Jewel tones are the perfect way to liven up your space, without sacrificing a sense of light and space. Dark colors have a tendency to make a space seem smaller, but by using saturated colors in small doses like with an expertly positioned accent wall, or some choice accessories, you can create a memorable look. As you can probably tell by now, I'm very proud of my own NYC pad (pictured above,) and I did it all with some elbow grease, a keen eye for sales, and a bucket of paint. Jewel tones can take you anywhere, from the Mod meets Rococo of my apartment, to the Moroccan glow of this space. Just repeat the following mantra: I am not afraid of color, I am not afraid of color!

Design Within Reach (No, Really!)

After living with room mates for over 5 years, both in the Midwest and then in NYC, I was officially 'over it'. I didn't want to deal with any more confrontations about toilet paper, or dirty dishes, and that coupled with circumstance led to my introduction to solo living. I'll admit I was a little apprehensive at first, but within two days of signing my lease I was already conjuring up interior design plans for my first real apartment. Like most projects I take on, I was meticulous about every detail, from color scheme to hardware and lighting, and the final result is something that I'm extremely proud of. When people first step into my apartment, they're often taken aback by the overall ambiance, and I think that has a lot to do with the high quality feel I created on a very tight budget. I'm always happy to tell newcomers about the great bargains I found, and I give out interior design tips like it's my job. (I wish!)

I've always admired the craftsmanship, and detail found in antique book plates, and they're the perfect addition to any wall. Audubon prints fall into this genre, but are generally out of my price range. I've found beautiful framed prints in antique shops and mainstream home decor stores, but again the price point is always outrageous. So after months of searching I was ecstatic when I happened upon an East Village gem, Pageant Prints. Originally known as Pageant Book Shop, the store was founded in 1946, and showcased used and rare books. It's even been featured in films like Woody Allen's 'Hannah and Her Sisters'. Pageant is a place that exudes a sense of history, and for the most part it still remains a New York City secret. Like many businesses that have stood the test of time in the Big Apple, Pageant has had to make some changes, but what remains today is a tiny shop full of well priced, well preserved original antique prints and maps. You can find almost anything your heart desires here, and you won't deplete your bank account in the process. I'd estimate that at least fifty percent of the art work in my apartment is from Pageant, and I can always count on them to quell my need for new pieces. Definitely worth the visit whether you're an NYC resident or a visitor, you'll leave with a smile on your face, and a little piece of history in your hands.

Design Within Reach (No, Really!)

Today I unveil another weekly feature to join the ranks with the Fashion Feature, For The Love of Food, and The Video Vault... tada! Design Within Reach (No, Really!) will explore the world of interior design, but in a way that is affordable, accessible and most importantly fun! I grew up in a meticulously designed home, where everything had its place, and most rooms had definite themes, so interior design has always been of interest to me. When I moved into my very own apartment, I was finally able to experiment with design on a larger scale and I realized, "Hey! I'm pretty good at this!" Creating a space that is functional, comfortable, and stylish is a daunting task, but I hope that when armed with a few tricks and tips you'll be inspired to make the most out of your space. After all, your home is your safe haven, a place where the outside world should just melt away.

The amazing photographs above are courtesy of Nate Berkus Associates, and I have to to tell right now that I am obsessed with everything Berkus. The man is a design genius, and I'm not just saying this because Oprah told me to. His aesthetic meshes almost seamlessly into mine, and he often describes himself as 'obsessed' with elements, whether they're decorative accents or storage solutions - a man after my own heart! So when I found myself up last night at 1am watching him talk about his new line for the Home Shopping Network, I knew that I had to spread the Berkus love. Everything included in his HSN line, from furniture, to sheets, towels and wall decor was designed by the man himself, and features natural materials and the high quality you expect. The prices are extremely reasonable (with 420 thread count sheet sets going for under $50,) and the aesthetic is clean, modern and luxurious. But don't take my word for it, check out the collection for yourself - your apartment will thank me later.

Smells Like Teen Spirit

1. Dos Gardenias Shorts, $40; modcloth.com, 2. Floral 1460 by Dr. Martens, $128; zappos.com, 3. Gloria's Garden Rug, $348-498; anthropologie.com, 4. William Morris Daisy Print Garden Tools, $32; takashimaya-ny.com.

Until my senior year of college, I was anything but girly. Yes, I had discovered that I could indeed be sexy, but I hadn't explored the power of my femininity. I didn't feel comfortable in pink, ruffles, or heels, and my color of choice was black. I was never a Goth, although often accused of being one, but rather a Punk Rocker with a heart of gold. When I look back on it now, I realize that although I still love the music, the fashion was more of a protective shield than anything else. Yes, I had fun pretending I was Kathleen Hanna, but eventually I shed that rough exterior in favor of more delicate ensembles. Queue my summer obsession with floral prints in every form - I just can't get enough. Add some color to an otherwise bland room with Gloria's Garden Rug, or garden with colorful accessories to brighten your mood. When it comes to the clothing, I feel like I just discovered Angela Chase all over again. I just can't help but love her, and her crazy 90s Grunge style. After all, wasn't Grunge just Punk Rock's depressed, younger cousin?