{ inspired by: sunset magazine }

Over the weekend I had a chance to catch up on some magazine reading and ended up spending an hour or so oogling over the February issue of Sunset Magazine. Sunset has always been a favorite of mine, but over the last year or so, they've really kicked it up a notch. It was difficult to choose which articles to read because every. single. one sounded great--from West Coast travel escapes and drool worthy home tours to the inside scoop on making designer flower arrangements at home. 

After seeing interior designer, Sheri Sheridan's Oakland home tour and reading through her secrets of freestyle decorating, I just knew I had to share it with you all. Are you ready for a little design inspiration to kick off the week? Let's go...

Rule: Shun Labels {love this!}--instead, Sheridan mixes time periods and styles so they work together.

Rule: Salvage Something--Sheridan found this little bench in disrepair. She repaired the leg, repainted the frame, and used a fabric remnant to reupholster the cushion. Isn't it lovely?

Rule: Celebrate Tchotchkes--Make what you already have display-worthy

Rule: Be selective when shopping--choose low cost options and accent with pricier items. Here, a budget friendly solid color pillow from Crate and Barrel is mixed with a designer accent pillow by Thomas Paul.

What do you think? I love it when practical mixes with pretty, don't you? If you would like to view more of this home tour and Sheri Sheridan's design tips, click here. Be sure to take a moment to browse Sunset's fabulous site, where you can visit many more inspirational galleries and access most of the feature articles found in the mag.

Psst: they also have some fabulous blogs.

All images by Thomas J. Story via Sunset Magazine