Taking a Time Out to Recharge & Reinspire
Design has become such an integral part of my life over the years that sometimes the lines between work and pleasure have blurred. I am here to say that is not a bad thing. I feel so lucky that I get to work in a field that lights me up and truly makes me feel like I am having fun! So a couple of weeks ago when my friend Debbe and I decided we would go to the Downeast Arts & Antique Show in Blue Hill Maine, you would have thought I was going on a little vacation! And that is where the guilt set in…how on earth can I be taking a Thursday and Friday off to go to this show? I have clients and installs and deadlines. But, wait…this was also work! It is pleasurable, sure, but it is also essential to my work. These field trips fill my design cup, inspire me, give me new ideas and make me step away from the computer. They make me a far better designer with fresh ideas and brimming energy. So they are essential to my work, and my life!
I’d love to share a little about this FUN working vacation escape!
Blue Hill, Maine is not a large town so we stayed about 45 minutes away in Castine, Maine. A place I have been wanting to visit as I'd heard it was quintessential coastal Maine. The little Inn we stayed was perfect, New England nostalgia brimming with all the gorgeous August colors.
These shows are always about the people for me. I love meeting antique dealers from around the country offering up so many fun finds. The connections are invaluable especially when I am on the hunt for a unique item.
Painted Chests, with that old patina that I just love and that I believe can live anywhere!
The murals of Castine painted in the dining room of The Castine Inn were so charming. This look continues to be in style today, whether painted, in art pieces or in a wallpaper.
This little table got snapped up immediately and I can see why, the shine, the intricate detailing on the sides it is a beautiful piece. The layering of this scene from the table to the gorgeous flowers and vase to the symmetrical book shelves and that little peek of a gold framed art piece, I just took this whole little moment in.
Quilts are a favorite of mine and while this French one also sold quickly, It inspired me with the two different fabrics on front and back and the texture. Also the colorway, that warm, deep yellow combined with the grid pattern. I can just picture a yellow sofa or chair with some black/gray and white drapes behind. Can’t you?
These are just a few snippets of our time in Blue Hill and the surrounding Down East area. It was work, it was play, it was inspiring and so worth it! I hope this serves as your friendly reminder to not forget to take some time to get out from behind the computer and touch and feel your way through this beautiful world. Fill up your cup!
Let’s Design for Good,
Kim
