Sweet, serene spaces

From time to time I get so frazzled and caught up in my life, the daily to-dos, projects I'm working on, etc., all the while feeling like I am accomplishing nothing, that I wonder if I am living up to my full potential (no), doing anything meaningful with my life, or making a difference in the world... which I think is ultimately what makes us a lot of us feel fulfilled.  I have no doubt that many of you feel the same from time to time.

During these moments I always find myself with the urge to pare down when it comes to my surroundings, and try to create a space that is a little more serene, sparse, and minimal.  I always end up searching my design sources for "zen interiors," "spiritual interiors," "quaker interiors," etc...

Here's what my most recent search turned up:

Actress Keri Russell's living room is so beautiful and relaxing!

A perfectly organized space always leaves me feeling zen

So peaceful.  Looks so much like the farm where I grew up, I can almost hear the red-winged black birds.

What do you do when you need some zen?

1.,2.  via Soulbird 3. via HomeEdit  4. Jon Jensen via Black & Eiffel 5. via Feed my Sole 6. Jon Jensen

Frantic Friday ...deep breath

Holy cow where has this week gone!  I still have unfinished project due today that could definitely use a few more days... A little serenity for you and wishes for a wonderful weekend!

via Pinterest

2 above via Pure Green Living

2 above via TradHome

Finding holiday refuge - perfectly peaceful bathrooms

I really do enjoy getting to see most of my relatives over the holidays, especially my three sister, as we're spread over the east coast. However, ever since I was a child, a room or house full of people can start to leave me feeling a bit suffocated after awhile. Whether or not you're like me in this characteristic, it's still important to take a little time for yourself to recharge. My personal favorite is a hot bath with some candles, because it's so comforting and peaceful.

love this quaint, vintage bathroom.

I don't know if I'd ever pick such bright colors for my own bathroom, but I still think it's really striking.

I've never seen a bathtub at an angle like this!  I love "real" furniture in the bathroom, like the upholstered seat you see here.

*Love* this tile and the chocolate

Okay, so I'm not sure if I actually like this bathroom or not.   The color palette is interesting - maybe it's all just a bit too country for me.  What do you think?  Do you like this palette? Like the style?

so luxurious! I could spend a long time in here.

Which bathroom is your favorite?  Do you use the bathroom as a personal sanctuary?

via BHG