While some stopped listening after the five minute ovation Kanye happily greeted last night, I continued listening. The reason being, that despite his previous character flaws and memorable faux pas – he is a creative genius. What I got from his speech at the VMA’s last night – was that no matter what the artist is creating in comparison to another, it is still art and should be received and held to the same regard as the next. And that is something to be appreciated, celebrated, and shared. There are no winners or losers when it comes to creation. While it may not have been said as such – this was the intended meaning. I have always been a fan of Kanye – maybe not his lack of a filter, but for his ambition, creativity and dedication to the art. So while I can’t say I am a huge fan of his actions – I am a huge fan of his creative genius. So today, we’re taking direction from Mr. West. Check out six different ways he amplified his talents into creating his family home.

1. A kitchen with cathedral ceilings and pendant lights hanging over marble counter tops creates the perfect ambiance for family get together and holidays.

2. An outdoor/indoor seating area with a rustic feel of wood and brick, brought together by the warmth of a chandelier and cushy sofas with modern throw pillows.

3. An open, airy family room designed with neutral, warm earth tones and accents of black.

4. A beautiful foyer with blends of different textures, marble, brick, and iron, all melded in together for a modern yet sophisticated welcome.

5. And of course – carrying modernism into an all white walk in closet that glistens with sleek, straight lines and recess lighting.

6. The open airy hallways with gothic style chandeliers and flowers placed to provide a subtle touch of softness.

A candle does so much for a room. The color draws attention to a wonderfully put together centerpiece, the luminary aesthetic is warm and calming to guests, and the scents – Lavender, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Pomegranate – and any combination of the aforementioned will leave you feeling serene (even hungry sometimes =) ). They can bring feelings of nostalgia, and warmth to any gathering or holiday event. For this reason and many more I love candles, and I am always looking for ways to incorporate them into all rooms in my home. On my most recent Pinterest adventure, I found the most amazing candle displays, and I’m sharing six of them with you today…

DIY Teacup Candle via Pinterest

DIY Holiday Candle Display via homestoriesatoz – fun fall project, and is sweet smelling too!

Jar Candle Chandelier – love this! via Beautiful Backyards – try this tutorial for a similar look

Turn a non usable fireplace into the main event. ..via tidbits and twine

Seashell Candles via Ideas for Interior

Lace Mason Jar Candle Holders via Etsy

They say you love it or hate it. I personally love fringe. I think it’s great that it’s trending right now, and I’m taking full advantage of it. I just recently added a black and turquoise shawl with fringe edges to my wardrobe- it’s really hard not to wear it every day. I love it. I’m taking full advantage of fringe benefits – and you should too – while it’s not for everyone Any how – while fringe may be a temporary phase in the fashion world, it has it’s a long lasting charm amongst home decor and furniture pieces…whether its a woven fringe throw pillow with a broach accent – or a Midwestern studded fringed ottoman – this style can be made into beautiful pieces that will make you want to jump on the bandwagon ASAP. Check out six different ways people showcased their fringe benefits!

The color forecast for Fall is in – and I’ve got the palette of the top ten hottest colors for 2015.  Brought to us by Pantone – the global color authority for inspiration in design since 1963.  Each year, Pantone surveys fashion designers, retailers, manufacturers, and a plethora of various professionals to create this forecast. Many use this chart as a guide to design their wardrobe and home. Check out my Pantone 2015 inspired pieces below, use one or combine a few to create a fresh fall 2015 look!

Ameethyst Inspiration: Louis Ghost Armchair

Dried Herb & Oak Buff, Athena Rug by Surya available at Inmod

Stormy Weather accent wall, Desert Sage throw pillows

Cashmere Rose Inspired Accent Lamp

Campaign Desk in Marsala

Reflecting Pond Walls with Cadmium Orange Accents via Pinterest

Basic Bay inspired B&G Crackled Porcelin Vase via 1stdibs

I am pretty particular when it comes to the patterns and colored textiles that make up window treatments, drapes or curtains. I don’t do ruffles, dark hues or anything over the top. Something light, like draped sheer duiponi blended silks strewn over a metallic rod in two to three tones will usually do the job. When I saw a custom made navy blue and gold cornice valence with perfectly matched geometric patterned drapes, I knew I had to take break some – if not all  of my rules. It looked so regal, and pulled the neutral cream and brown tones of the room together in such an elegant way. And it really wasn’t too over the top considering the navy blue was really dark. The gold shaped accents on the fabric brought balance to the cornice and room. I have been obsessed since then, and consider myself a well – valanced member of society. You can be too, check out a great tutorial here : $10 and 10 Minute DIY Valance/Cornice. Mix or match colors and patterns, with or without drapes – you really can’t go wrong here. Check out some of my fave DIY-ers below!