Inspiration from The Parker Palm Springs

This past weekend I was lucky enough to slip away from the chilly San Francisco weather down to Palm Springs.  It was my first time in Palm Springs, so we had a lot of exploring to do.   Kyle   thought I was a little crazy when I told him I wanted to check out some hotels, but he eventually obliged.  Although we didn't stay there, I loved exploring The Parker Palm Springs. The entire hotel was designed by Jonathan Adler and everything has is colorful, quirky, hippie vibe.  I love how the hotel clearly has some history, but the decor references it in a totally fun, modern way.

Check out this quirky corner of the lobby:

The hotel grounds are almost laid out like a garden maze, with really cool suprises around every corner like bocce ball, croquet, or a "lemonade stand."  The fire pit clearly gets tons of use on the chilly nights:

Kyle's favorite part was the spa, which they've dubbed the "Palm Springs Yacht Club."  Everything is awesomely over the top nautical and the insanely high ceilings make it feel especially glamorous.

 Finally,  the old school lounge/dinner spot, "Mister Parker" was just awesome:

(All images from Parker Palm Springs)

More (Affordable) Happy Chic

I just realized that as I went on about Jonathan Adler yesterday, I should have mentioned his more affordable collection for HSN.  Similar to Target,  HSN does a number of small designer collections at a cheaper price point.   While most of the directly branded Jonathan Adler designs are way out of my price range, the HSN collection that he did this year is actually at a somewhat reasonable priced.   I've never bought anything from HSN but I do have a list ....

I think this headboard is the perfect mix of preppy and regency

I know this is a limited collection but I really wish that there was more orange in it!  I love this ikat bedding but I think it's a bit to girly for me (& Kyle) I wish there was something with navy and orange.

Finally, there are a couple of fun gift items like these salt and pepper shakers.

If you're looking for even more affordable decor and furniture, you should also check out the Nate Berkus collection on HSN.   His stuff is a little bit more toned down than JA but it still has plenty of style.

Wait, You Don't Know About Jonathan Adler?

I was talking to a friend recently and compared something to "Jonathan Adler" and she had no idea who/what I was talking about.   Well, friend, he and his designs are pretty great.  So, I figured I should dedicate a post to him.    Warning:  If you continue reading, you are going to have to deal with me professing my love and admiration for Jonathan Adler. 

First off, he describes his approach to design as “Happy Chic”  and I think  he is pretty spot-on.   Check out his "10 Comandments for a Happy Chic Home"

I couldn't agree more that your home should make you happy and that it should be filled with things and colors that you will enjoy.    I also adore the utter commitment to color and not taking your home (or yourself) too seriously.  

Now, to some of my favorite spaces...

The combo  of blues and greens in this room, which happens to be Liz Lange's living room,  is awesome and Jonathan Adler always adds just enough shine to make a place feel glamorous.

I just love this little desk area, the blue patterned curtains, the super cool art collage, and even the fluffy little sheepskin rug.

I love the double headboards in this bedroom.  Plus, the really great orange fabric.

And Yes,  he also designed a real life Barbie Malibu Dream Home

 Jonathan Adler's stores (both online and in person) have  a great variety of things,  from his super unique pottery to large scale furniture pieces.   I'd love to get my hands on this sofa:

Or, one of these perfect dressers:

I have to stop because my wish list could be pages and pages long.... The point is,  have fun with your home! And, Jonathan Adler offers  plenty of inspiration.