Welcome to the very first volume of Details from the Designer. I’m finally making good on my 2023 professional resolution to blog more regularly with tangible design ideas for your home (easy, quick and inexpensive updates) and a little fun personal inspiration. Better (very) late than never?!

I’m going to keep the format of this newsletter straightforward and short. I want you to be able to read them during a snack break or while you wait in the Target returns line. I also want me to be able to stay regular and consistent about writing them. It’s a win for all of us.

Styling Breakdown

This built-in shelf from our Cortland Project is about contrast and texture. With the bold, blue wallpapered background, we used light, neutral decor to create interest. Mixed in with that range of ivory, beige and gray is lots of texture.

SOURCE LIST - items carried in our stockroom are noted, please email hello@grayoakstudio.com for pricing

Similar wallpaper
Similar wood candlesticks
“Painting Beyond Pollack” coffee table book
Brown resin textured container
Square frame with round mat
Square marble candle holder (in stock at Gray Oak Stockroom)
White lidded cachepot (in stock at Gray Oak Stockroom)
White textured planter

Keeping Myself Busy

I’m currently listening to Lessons in Chemistry. I’m enjoying the plot, I love the author’s voice (a little quirky, just like the characters) and the narrator is fantastic. I have found that a good narrator is absolutely critical when listening versus reading. A great book can be made awkward or boring when I don’t vibe with the narrator’s voice. OH, and Apple TV is releasing a series based on the book later this year…so quick read it now before you can’t resist watching first or everyone’s spoiling it!

Fashion Find

I’ve been eyeing the woven leather tote from Quince for a long while, so when I got an email that the black was back in stock (I was on the waitlist…do you ever do that?) I didn’t think twice. The black is still in stock for at the moment and you can put yourself on the waitlist for the cognac or light gray.

Local Fun

I’m sure this is old news for some locals, but I finally made a reservation at Nightshade Noodle Bar!!! Granted, the reservation is months away, but I’m already excited. Right now, it looks like a party of 3 is the biggest available reservation, period. But, there’s a waitlist to be notified for bigger parties. And you now know that I love a good waitlist.

My goal is to pull together a newsletter once a month, totally manageable. And sprinkle in project reveals when possible. I’m a month overdue on Norden. So that’s next on my list!

Until next month (if not sooner)!!!

Cheers, Leah

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