For the creatively motivated, Pinterest is a great site to visit to fuel those fires of do-it-yourselfyness that we celebrate here. For the rest of us, it’s a great place to go to waste time and pine over such motivation. When we do find something cool and easy to create, we want to share it which is why this Pottery Barn inspired scripted lampshade is here on your screen right now. We love the idea of having your favorite words literally light your way and this project has many different options on how to go about it. The Shabby Creek Cottage recommends buying a new lampshade (obviously) and printing our your words and taping them on the inside of the shade to trace before painting, but the idea of free handing it could add just the ‘write’ amount of personality to make your room unique. Visit the site to get the full details.

Each week, Desert Living Today will bring you a ‘Dwelling of the Week’, a unique and modern living space. Check back weekly on Tuesdays for our pick of architectural eye-candy. This week’s listing provided by DwellArizona.com

The acclaimed Meadowbrook Residence is a collaborative effort of designers Jay Atherton and Cy Keener. The 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2,200 square foot home is currently for sale and listed by Greg Kilroy of  The Velocity Group. Recently, the price of this stunning home was posted at $340,000. For more information on MLS# 4631415, click here.

1205 E MEADOWBROOK Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85014

Listing description: Featured on Dec/Jan 2011 cover of Dwell Magazine, the Meadowbrook Residence is an example of pure architectural design. Atherton|Keener has taken a rather typical infill lot in Phoenix and through the careful use of a palette of materials – mainly concrete block, cement, drywall, & wood – have created a home with minimal distractions. Located on an oleander lined lot in Canal North neighborhood, the home’s design shows a strong relationship between inside and out. Windows on the north and south side allow natural light to flow into bedrooms while unique curved walls capture and disperse light. Custom Ferrari shade sails on a steel frame, shade the home from the Arizona sun. A long hallway provides the unique separation between a wall of glass on one side, and custom cabinetry on the other.

Images via Listing Agent

This little DIY project from P.S. I Made This really struck us as something neat. Matchbooks are something we may all take for granted, but they can act as little tokens from faraway lands, favorite restaurants or a fabulous flea markets that take you back to another place and time. Now you can display your collection in the form of wall art. All you need is a shadow box (or multiple if you want to expand your collection) and push pins.  Shove the pins through the matchbooks directly into the shadow box and cover when complete. It makes a great conversation piece so you can tell all of your house guests how well traveled you are. Check out the full post here.

Shawn Beaird of Dwell Arizona, realtor with Pascale Group of HomeSmart Elite specializing in modern and contemporary homes, mid-century modern homes, historic districts, and urban high-rises is back with a tribute to the architecture of Arizona of the past 100 years. 

As some around the world were celebrating Valentine’s Day, in Arizona we were commemorating our state’s 100th anniversary of becoming a state. Yes, Arizona is relatively young compared to the rest of the U.S., but there’s still a good deal of history that can be celebrated making it interesting to look back on how thing’s have changed. In honor of Arizona turning the ripe old age of 100, here’s a look at some beautiful homes for sale on the market either representative of their era or unique in style, with the age in which they were built spanning a full 100 years and 2 homes showcasing each decade.

For the full list including real estate info and architect, click here to Dwell Arizona.

Do you have a couch straight out of the 80’s? Are the trials of vacuuming shag carpet something you are all-too familiar with? Then the Arizona North Chapter of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers, the oldest and largest professional organization for Interior Designers) has come to your rescue. During the months of March and April, you can meet with an ASID Interior Designer in your home or business for up to two hours at a reduced rate. Whether you just need help choosing the right color for your walls or some major changes are needed (first things first: get rid of that carpet!), this is your opportunity to get the project started. Plus, hiring a professional interior designer can save you time and money and prevent costly mistakes.

After registering, you will be put in touch with a designer who specializes in your design needs. The designer will contact you to set up a to meet. Appointments are limited.  Registration ends March 31 and initial designer consultation must be completed by May 15.

To register or for more info, click here.

Image via Furniture Seen

Using more f-bombs than a drunken sailer, FYNCT is our favorite NSFW interior design blog. Click here to check the potty-mouthed design blog for f*ckin’ awesome interior design inspiration and ideas or to say a polite piss off in the comments to those with nicer homes than yours.

A eco-friendly and super easy way to add a little life to your home is the Woolly Pocket Living Wall Planter. Made from 100% recycled plastic water bottles here in the United States, the soft-sided pockets are breathable, brightly colored, modular and a fun way to grow indoors. Used for a single garden or hanging out with a crowd, the Woolly Pocket makes a great gift for all, even the garden-impaired.

The original Woolly is available online for $40, but we just picked one up local at the new Bodega grocer and market in Scottsdale.

Perhaps “craft table” is too specific of a term, but this do it yourself table from the Thrifty Decor Chick would be pretty handy for all your crafting tools…if that’s your thing. We also think it would be handy for shot glasses and bottles of alcoholic beverages so you could create a nice little bar storage for whatever room in your house could use a little sprucing, but it’s really up to you. By using cube shelves and a slab of whatever wood or laminate you happen to have lying around, you could have a shmancy table in hours. Just follow the directions from Thrifty Decor Chic here and DIY-away.

Greatest idea ever: finger-painting, but for adults…with entire bodies. Confused yet? Then swing on by your local Fascinations, pick up their “Love is Art” kit and try it out for yourself (just not by yourself, which doesn’t sound as fun). While you may have already stopped by the love-megastore to stock up on goods for the upcoming holiday, this unique kit is something you don’t want to miss. It features a blank art canvas, specially-formulated paint, brushes and of course, a plastic sheet to protect your floor. After pouring the paint out on the canvas, couples use their bodies to move the paint around and create a funky abstract image. The kit is complete with disposable slippers to use as you walk to the bath and *ahem*…wash off.

Naturally, the love purveyors didn’t stop there; they are also featuring a delicious Shunga-Chocolate Paint for Valentine’s Day. But who says we have to wait till February 14? We’re showing our hunnies some sugar tonight.

As chosen by you, here are the top stories of ALL TIME aka last week just in case you missed them.

No matter how you look at it, there are never enough outlets for everything that needs to be plugged in…or at least they’re not in the right place. So when your phone/iPod/camera can all be charged by a USB, it makes sense that you can use a wall plug in for such important devices and double (quadruple) up on the functionality. That’s why this DIY project from Apartment Therapy is practical. We’re not going to give you electrical advice, but we are going to direct you to the website to read the important steps to making your living space USB friendly and functional.

Just in time for spring shopping, local favorite Scottsdale Jean Company has relocated to The SHOPS at Gainey Village, giving shoppers 8,000 brand-new sq. ft of men’s and women’s designer jeans, tops and casual wear. Celebrating their Grand Opening this Thursday, February 9, the store will also feature the full line of Kiehl’s skin, hair and body care products, a full sunglass shop, a customer lounge area and a children’s playroom.  “It was time for a new home for Scottsdale Jean Company after more than six years at our current location,” says owner Steven Koeppel. “As a destination retail establishment, our customers seek us out for our unbeatable selection and unparalleled customer service, featuring experts trained in finding the right size and style for any body type.” The Company will also soon unveil a new website that will emulate the in-store shopping experience.

If designer duds aren’t enough reason to spend an entire day at the Village, perhaps the area’s assortment of chic new shops and contemporary eateries will be. Opening in the former Bloom space in January, local restauranteurs Jerry Tingle and Chef Brian Fierstein’s Cask 63 American Eatery & Wine Bar offers eclectic American cuisine, an excellent wine menu and relaxed outdoor seating – great for taking a break between shopping destinations such as furniture showroom Kreiss; handcrafted clothing, accessory and houseware boutique A Cool Breeze, and del Adora, the Valley’s go-to source for luxury linens and bedding. At their second location, del Adora allows clients to choose from a huge selection of luxury fabrics to customize their homes, also offering a sumptuous collection of bath accessories, towels, fragrance and skin care products.

Before the day is done, complete the experience with a stop at healthy-takeout masters My Fit Foods, which just opened its first Valley location. For more information, click here.

The SHOPS Gainey Village | 8787 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ |

Let’s be honest, Valentine’s Day isn’t lovey-dovey for everyone and those who are celebrating a cynical single life may not be in the mood to share in the love. Last year, we gave you some fabulous “Hater’s Guide to Valentine’s Day” ideas. This year, we’ve got a few ideas to express your Valentine’s Day disgust and your artsy side with a few DIY Schmalentine’s: 4 ways just on the other side of this door.  »READ MORE

Introducing Shawn Beaird of Dwell Arizona, realtor with Pascale Group of HomeSmart Elite specializing in modern and contemporary homes, mid-century modern homes, historic districts, and urban high-rises. With a passion for modern design and architecture, the Arizona native, brings us the latest in Valley real estate and home news each month.

There’s something genuinely beautiful about blending the old with the new in home design, maintaining the historic nature of something while giving it a contemporary or modern twist. This synthesis of old and new can be found throughout many of the historic districts we have here in Phoenix. If you have never had the pleasure of touring some of these neighborhoods and homes filled with character and charm, now is your chance!

Coronado Historic District is having their 25th Silver Anniversary Home Tour: Then and Now. This home tour will mark 25 years of Coronado home tours, explore how far the neighborhood has come over the years, and celebrate tradition while honoring innovation and renovation.

This historic district features many styles of homes from bungalow, English Tudor, Spanish Colonial Revival, Pueblo Revival, and Southwest, to a few more recently built contemporary homes. Many of the residents are from creative industries and backgrounds, leading to very charming and stylish renovations to their historic homes, some of which will be featured on the tour. Not only will visitors be able to tour homes, but there will also be several events such as yoga, dog training, music, food and vendors of all types. Also on display will be the 2nd Annual Coronado Classic Car Show with unique classic cars lining the streets.

A large area of homes is covered by the historic district designation in Central Phoenix, bounded by McDowell and Thomas to the south and north, and between 7th St and 16th St to the east and west.  The tour will focus on a smaller, much more specific section of the neighborhood.

Tour Details: Sunday, March 4, 2012, 10 am to 4 pm
Centered on Sheridan Street between 8th Street and Mitchell Street (3 blocks south of Thomas)
Tickets are $15 day of tour or $12.50 in advance

Visit Coronado Home Tour website for more info and to purchase tickets.

Here are just two of the interesting homes on tour after the jump: »READ MORE

No matter how you look at it, there are never enough outlets for everything that needs to be plugged in…or at least they’re not in the right place. So when your phone/iPod/camera can all be charged by a USB, it makes sense that you can use a wall plug in for such important devices and double (quadruple) up on the functionality. That’s why this DIY project from Apartment Therapy is practical. We’re not going to give you electrical advice, but we are going to direct you to the website to read the important steps to making your living space USB friendly and functional.

Image via Camelback Flowers

From hot spots to dine to sweet spots for your sweetheart, we’ve been raving about Valentine’s Day for a while now, but there is one gift we have yet to help you score. Quite often the most important and traditional present of all – or at least the one that will get you in trouble if you don’t buy them – flowers. Since Valentine’s Day isn’t complete without at least some rose petals, DLT has rounded up five of the best local flower shops for you to check out this holiday. But hurry! Order soon to guarantee the freshest blooms around.

»READ MORE

Scottsdale’s new establishment The Saguaro Hotel may be Arizona’s freshest and most vibrant place for a weekend respite. More destination than staycation, the hotel, which was designed by New York-based architectures Stamberg Aferiat, is a vivid tribute to the colorful sights and animated settings of the Southwest, with a color palette of tangerine, buttery yellow, magenta and bright, rich green. If the atmosphere and welcoming spa isn’t enough to bring you out, however, perhaps the restaurants will – most notably, modern Mexican eatery Distrito, the sibling of Iron Chef’s Jose Garces’ celebrated Philadelphia dig of the same name.

Stemming from the hotel’s southwestern shades, the delicious interior design of Distrito is energetic and contemporary, based upon the brilliant, spirited hues of Mexican culture. Designer Jun Aizaki, who hailed from Brooklyn, New York’s Crème Design Collective, was inspired by the landscapes of the region and created the restaurant’s interior to feel both traditional and fresh. A colorful skull feature by the lobby entrance, for example, is celebratory of Mexico’s Day of the Dead; a backlit resin bar counter with butterfly embeds, a mosaic felt ball feature wall resembling bright gumballs and a woven flat elastic screen wall at the banquettes are novel, modern and invigorating. Clothespin chandeliers and table tops sprinkled with pink and gold glitter add a further funky edge to the restaurant’s style. Guests can order Hamachi tacos fresh off the skillet, a variety of Barbacoa, margaritas from over 100 varieties of tequila at the margarita bar and the tortilla and guacamole station, where tortillas are made-to-order on a quilted stainless steel food-vendor-style post, are authentically delicious by chef’s design.

Distrito at The Saguaro | 4000 Drinkwater Boulevard | Scottsdale, AZ | 480-970-4444

It’s a little late to get this baby shipped over to the house for the Super Bowl but for you grilling experts this here beauty might be your next purchase.   The Bob Grillson BBQ uses traditional power to burn up wooden pellets that give your steaks a unique flavor. It also sports an oiled bamboo tray for chopping, prepping, and beer-holding, a sleek modern design, golf caddy wheels, cast-iron, porcelain enameled grates, an electronic temperature control, and an integrated thermometer.

Be mine, Be mine, o’ Valentine of luxury and design.  Take a peek at our special guide to a Valentine’s Day filled with love and design.

Looking for something fun to do in mid February? Why not check Palm Spring’s Modernism Week. Taking place February 16-26, this 11 day event has plenty to offer the modern design and architecture lover. The event celebrates mid-century modern design, architecture, and culture in Palm Springs.

Taking inspiration from the style of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, Modernism Week will include architectural tours, films, lectures, and educational events. But wait there’s more. Chic parties will also be going down in mid-century modern homes and boutique hotels all week.

For a complete schedule of the events click here.

Image via Modernism Week

Maybe it’s our desire to spend lazy days curled up on the couch that is inspiring all of these DIY Pillow posts, but it also could be that these ideas are great and pillows are an affordable way to change a room without buying new furniture.  Double props when you can make them yourself and use what you have. This Quote pillow is from the charming DIY blog Wit & Whistle and is inspired by a similar, pricier one ($149) from Vivaterra, but encourages creativity in picking a quote all by yourself. You just need a blank pillow, a ruler, a letter stencil, a pencil and a fabric marker to turn your couch into a literary oasis. Follow all the directions here. Maybe write a little love note to your Valentine this year, quote your favorite song or line from a movie. The ideas are endless.

Image via Wit & Whistle

As chosen by you, here are the top stories of ALL TIME aka last week, just in case you missed them.

What do you get when you mix an accessories designer, an architect and an Al Beadle condo remodel project? You get a “fashterior” aka a unique and quirky modern space inspired by fashion (btw – we just coined that word). Equally intriguing as the space itself is the owner Jennifer Paige Boonlorn, the accessories designer behind Soul Carrier, a unique brand that takes interesting materials, like recycled seat belts, and turns them into fashion accessories.

Jennifer’s remodeled Beadle Box, on the southside of Camelback, is a product of her passion for fashion, modern design and her friendship with architect Bob Wilkinson “I worked with Bob Wilkinson to completely renovate my Beadle Box. Bob and I were college friends, and I was his first client after he left Construction Zone last year to form his own company Worksite,” says Jennifer. »READ MORE

Designer-collaboration king Target will debut the ultimate colab series May 6 with The Shops at Target, a partnership with the owners of specialty shops and boutiques around the country to co-create affordable, limited-edition collections for shoppers. The first collection, which will be at all Target stores and their website, will feature five exclusive lines with nearly 400 exclusive products from specialty shops The Candy Store, Cos Bar, Polka Dog Bakery, Privet House and The Webster. Each line will reflect each shop owner’s unique aesthetic, from kitschy nail files for $1 to funky dog collars to drool-worthy swagger for the home for $160. Have we forgotten Jason Wu already? No way. Mark your calendars.

Another company has stopped the senseless killing of trees by shifting the way they ship. Red Clay Home, artisans of modern pottery and textiles, can opt to keep the material mailer for $12 when their textiles shipment reaches them. Or send it back to be reused for the next shipment. It’s a pretty cool bonus to your order. Shop here to find something fancy for the shipping.

What do you get when you mix an accessories designer, an architect and an Al Beadle condo remodel project? You get a “fashterior” aka a unique and quirky modern space inspired by fashion (btw – we just coined that word). Equally intriguing as the space itself is the owner Jennifer Paige Boonlorn, the accessories designer behind Soul Carrier, a unique brand that takes interesting materials, like recycled seat belts, and turns them into fashion accessories.

Jennifer’s remodeled Beadle Box, on the southside of Camelback, is a product of her passion for fashion, modern design and her friendship with architect Bob Wilkinson “I worked with Bob Wilkinson to completely renovate my Beadle Box. Bob and I were college friends, and I was his first client after he left Construction Zone last year to form his own company Worksite,” says Jennifer. »READ MORE

Not that you can really call this heavenly weather we experience “winter”, but the dry climate around these cooler months can really take its toll on the skin. That is why we jumped all over another DIY body scrub to exfoliate away all the dead (skin) of winter. You can get the ingredients at Whole Foods while picking up your weekly groceries and the directions are on BLDG 25 courtesy of blogger, Naomi. Great smells and a cute mason jar presentation, you can give this away as a great New Year gift to all those friends you may have accidentally left off your list. Whoops, at least they’ll remember you….

image via BLDG 25