Relaxing at Horseshoe Bay

Recently while in Austin, spending some time with our sons, we made a trip out to Horseshoe Bay to visit our oldest son's boss and family.  The lakefront property was so serene and beautiful.  I think it's fair to say, we could feel the cares of this life melt away as we stepped foot out of the car.  I had to snap a few pics to share some of the cool interior and exterior design elements of this breathtaking getaway.  

The front door, although not what you may typically see posted on Tattered Style, was contemporary and very hip I might add. 

Calming and soothing to the senses ~ to the right of the front door was this unique water feature. 

When I entered the home, I fell in love with the interior space.  It was so open, airy and light.  I particularly love this art feature in the entry.  How ingenious to use cut circles of a tree as art on a wall.  Notice how the design starts wide at the base and narrows as it reaches the ceiling. 

I thought it was quite clever as well how the tree trunk art element drew your eye up to this funky entry lighting ~ varying size jars that have been wired for lighting.  

 

The living area sported this photo blown up on a large canvas.  It was so fitting for this Texas getaway spot. 

The lighting over the dining table was to die for ~ cool fishing nets converted to large pendants.   

I swooned over this colorful kitchenette in the bunkhouse. 

The pops of color were so cheery in the mosaic glass backsplash. 

The outdoor deck and eating area had a spectacular view.  How would you like to have coffee out here every morning?

Doesn't this whole space just scream relaxation?  As we said our goodbyes and pulled away from this peaceful spot, I was thankful for the time our family was able to spend with Bill and his family.  And maybe even a little envious (in a good way) of all the folks who lingered behind to celebrate the 4th of July week in this most beautiful space. 

Here's hoping you have the chance to take a relaxing break today ~ even if it's only a moment to read Tattered Style.  See you soon!

Brownstone Doors

Well, here I am in Boston and I'm so excited that Brimfield has finally arrived.  I've been anticipating a trip to this flea market for quite some time.  Before heading to the hotel yesterday evening, my hubby and I made a stop at a fabulous restaurant called B&G Oysters.  Our anniversary is today, so it was nice to celebrate with a yummy dinner.  The place was recommended to us by a guy that we sat next to on the plane ~ his aunt is the chef at this renowned little spot.  Needless to say, he gave it rave reviews ~ and he was right ~ it was scrumptious!  

Afterwards, we decided to walk the neighborhood and found ourselves right smack-dab in the middle of the famed South Boston Historic District, known for its wonderful old Brownstones.  It was such a charming area.  I couldn't help but snap a few pics of some of my favorite doors to share.  It seemed fitting to give them names ~ so I did. :)  

#34 ~ Teal or Turquoise ~ 

#39 ~ Circles and Spheres ~

#8 ~ Octagonal Detail ~ 

#17 ~ Cast Stone Beauty ~

~ Ahead of the Rest ~

#11 ~ Lacquered Red Door ~ 

~ Star Light ~

~ Matthew Mahogany ~

   

# 7 ~ Star Bright ~

~ Filigree Loveliness ~

 

~ Gothic Black & Grey ~

#84 ~ Black and Blue ~

#82 ~ Lovely Blue ~

#77 ~ Leaded Glass Beauty ~

 

#68 ~ Arched Cast Stone ~

#2 ~ BBB ~ Blue Beadboard Babe ~

I hope you enjoyed these historic old doors.  I'm off to go fleaing ~ sigh.  I'll do my best to post some flea-bitten photos later on Tattered Style's FB page.  Be sure to look for them here.  

Things that Inspire

My Inspiration Organizer

Here's a little glimpse into some things that inspire me. I keep a clear plastic organizer on the inside of the closet door in my office. Every time I open this door I immediately feel energized. To some it may seem silly, but for me this is eye candy and my mind starts racing when I view all the contents in their pockets.

I always keep a variety of tags that I get at the office supply store on hand ~ when added to gift it makes it extra special.

Come on in and Stay Awhile

Perusing the aisles of the local Goodwill store when I was a little girl led me to an endearing fascination with the old. The tattered, often overlooked and forgotten treasures, waiting to be rescued, filled every aisle. They quietly drew me in. At the time, I didn't realize trips to the thrift stores or yard sales were quite frankly a necessity for our family. We were faced with financial hardship after my dad died and this was one of the ways my mom helped make ends meet. Naively, I viewed these excursions as an adventure, a time of discovery, a welcome into the world of possibilities. I particularly fell in love with old doors.

Doors say many things to me...they welcome and invite, they protect...they say "Come on in." This door is one of the many I have collected through the years. It was discovered in the little town of Justin, Texas a while ago. An inexpensive find with wonderful chipped and crackled paint. I love it's muted color with it's subtle variations. The patina of the old hardware adds further value and character to it's beauty. I see it as perfect...with all it's imperfections, needing only to find an ideal landing spot. A few years ago, I added an old shelf I found at the Round Top Antiques Fair. The skeleton keys were my grandmothers.