FIELD NOTES

Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Blue Hills Haven - Welcome Home!

Chip & Seal Driveway with Granite Entry Apron and Custom Entry Gate.

A beautiful chip & seal driveway with lush perimeter plantings welcomes one home.

-Driveway Redesign:

  • Our driveway redesign consisted of two reclaimed granite aprons at both the entry into the driveway and garage, two reclaimed granite blocks to be used as entry posts, a Chip & Seal Driveway with granite edging to contain the pea gravel and finished off with a wonderful border of Liriope, a variety of Daffodils and Cavatine Dwarf Andromeda.

Before photo of driveway prior to renovation

We removed the bit of parking at the front left of the home and moved it to the front right of the carriage house. This allowed us to create a bit more privacy for the front of the home while also retaining an equal amount of parking and convenient turn around space. There were existing boulders built into the slope along the right corner of the carriage house to help retain the driveway edge which were removed, and a proper radius wall was installed to retain the new turn around.

The proper way to plant daffodils... in mass!

Thousands of daffodils envelope the driveway in early spring

Before photo of carriage house

Mockup for the retaining wall

Mockup for the retaining wall to be built over the next 4 months

Radius retaining wall in progress

Progress shot of the radius retaining wall

Completed full bed stone radius retaining wall below driveway

Completed radius retaining wall below driveway turnout

Custom full bed veneer stone wall to retain new driveway turnaround.

Completed radius retaining wall for new driveway turnout with rustic cedar split rail set on top.

Shrub installation has begun around the radius wall.

Before photo of the original side turn off on the driveway.

Original side turn off has been removed and new plantings and lawn pathway now lead to the side yard beyond.

Engraving of Granite Gate Post

Engraving of entry post

Chip & Seal Driveway process

Chip & Seal being applied to driveway

Progress shot of the Chip & Seal driveway installation process

Another shot of the Chip & Seal driveway installation process

Dry-stack stone walls leading to the entrance of the property

Autumn view of the new perimeter walls along the street.

Driveway entry showing reclaimed granite entry apron, granite gate posts, dry-stacked stone walls, chip & seal driveway and lush perimeter plantings.

Read More
Pool, Pool Design, Pool & Spa Christina Wikman Pool, Pool Design, Pool & Spa Christina Wikman

Blue Hills Haven

Outdoor dining space with custom cedar pergola, thermal bluestone patios, perennial gardens and views to the meadow in Milton, MA.

Outdoor Dining and Entertaining spaces with views to the pool and meadow beyond.

Our Blue Hills Haven project was a 3+ acre landscape renovation that spanned two and a half years including the design process and installation. Our clients purchased this early 1900’s colonial with the intent to renovate it for their family of five. Our main objective for the design was to create a more formal landscape closer to the house while becoming more natural as we moved throughout the property. Our client wanted to create a native environment and natural habitats to encourage wildlife to co-exist on the property. The below image shows the original layout of the landscape where the new dining and entertaining terraces would be with views down to the new pool and spa. The existing bluestone pavers in the patio were safely removed and reused as steppingstones through the perennial garden shown above.

Before photo showing original patio, pergola and fire place prior to new retaining walls, perennial gardens, outdoor dining, entertaining and fire pit patios.

Original Landscape prior to renovation.

Lawn pathways leading through the meadow to the entertaining and fire pit patio with upper dining area in Milton, MA.

A lush landscape frames the entertaining and upper dining patio

We saved a good bit of the wall stone in the below photo and reused it in the new retaining walls shown in the photo above.

Before photo prior to new retaining walls, dining, entertaining and fire pit patios being installed.

Original Landscape prior to renovation.

Pool and spa with outdoor dining patio with pergola and fire pit patio in Milton, MA.

View from just beyond the pool leading you back up to the upper dinning terrace.

The large Arborvitae at the lower end of the home was removed as well as the clump of hydrangea and old apple trees to make way for the pool. It was sad to remove the apple trees, but in their honor, we did create a crab apple orchard in another location on the property. This location was most ideal for the pool due to the privacy and proximity to the house.

Before of landscape redesign prior to installation of dining, entertaining and fire pit patio and pool and spa.

Original Landscape prior to renovation.

Next up we will share the front of the house including the driveway and how we enhanced the curb appeal. Stay tuned.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Fall Edit

Fall makes up for the long dark winters we endure in New England and every year I am enamored all over again with fall colors both for home and wardrobe. Our scullery at Laurel House is the perfect shade for fall and I’m planning to bring more of the Autumn tones into the rest of the house through paint, wallcoverings, and furnishings. For now I’ve pulled together some quick and easy ways to add a dash of fall to your living room or wardrobe.

From top left:

1 . This dried foliage wreath fits the bill for adding some fall color to your front door to welcome guests.

2. I love bobbin anything and this playful mirror adds the perfect touch of Jacobian charm to a bathroom or kid’s bedroom.

3. These sheets are a fun way to bring some fall color to your kid’s bedroom.

4. You can’t go wrong with blue and white all year long but the addition of the ruffle gives it those cozy fall more is more vibes we’re after.

5. I’ve been eyeing this trench for several weeks. The lining is perfection and a perfect way to dress up any fall outfit.

6. I also believe a pair of classic white sneakers can be worn all year long.

7. This woven leather ottoman is an amazing deal for a large scale piece that will add texture to any space.

8. Oversized tortoise sunnies - need I say more? (on sale too!)

9. The beautiful colors and plaid design of this throw will add instant warmth to your sofa.

10. These faux hydrangeas could pass for real especially when mixed with some foraged dried grasses.

11. I need a kid’s playroom or den to add this cozy checkered rug to stat.

12. I’m loving the tones in this sweater and the floral embroidery makes it extra special.

13. The warm amber colors in this quilt would make the perfect coverlet or folded at the end of the bed.

14. Everyone needs a large wooden bowl in their kitchen to catch all the produce and veggies coming out of the garden (or grocery store!).

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Laurel House Hardware

unlacquered brass hardware for kitchen, cremone bolt, cotswold knob in unlacquered brass, emtek cabinet latch, armac martin cotswold knob, bail pull unlacquered brass, waterstreet madison pull, baldwin hardware cremone bolt, hardware for kitchens

Hardware is so important for adding that high quality, custom feeling and to a home and also one of the best ways to upgrade a newer home and give it some character. For my own kitchen I knew I wanted to use unlacquered brass hardware and ultimately went with a mix of knobs, pulls, latches, bail pulls, and cremone bolts (which I have yet to reveal the location of the cremone bolt yet, stay tuned!).

Off white kitchen with unlacquered brass hardware, farrow and ball lime white, carrara marble in kitchen with off white cabinets, concord, ma, weston, ma, winchester, ma, fully paneled dishwasher with unlacquered brass pull, kitchen with no uppers

We used the knobs on the majority of the drawers in the kitchen and the pulls on the doors, trash pull out (pictured above), and pantry doors (shown below).

kitchen with oak cabinetry, unlacquered brass hardware, tall pantry wall with drawers, stained pantry cabinetry, winchester, ma, concord, ma, boston, ma, dover, ma, lexington, ma, wellesley, ma
scullery with soapstone countertops, unlacquered brass hardware, bail pulls, benjamin moore carob, beadboard backsplash, back kitchen, butler's pantry, concord, ma, winchester, ma, weston, ma, dover, ma, lexington, ma

In the scullery I went with bail pulls, knobs on the doors, and cabinet latches on the uppers. On the opposite side (below) I used the knobs and cabinet latch plus a pull on the dishwasher panel.

butler's pantry with soapstone sink, unlacquered brass hardware, fully paneled dishwasher, root drawers, beadboard backsplash, pantry, scullery, back kitchen, victorian, concord, ma, wellesley, ma, winchester, ma,
Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Paris Olympics 2024

Paris Olympics outfits, Paris Olympics 2024, Paris Olympics roundup, Paris Olympics T-shirt, USA sweatshirt, Polo Ralph Lauren Olympics, Olympics polo, Olympics USA sweatshirt, USA tote, boyfriend socks, USA hat, Summer olympics roundup

With everything going on in the news I’m excited for a distraction and one that especially has the ability to bring the country together. There’s nothing I love more than an excuse to wear red, white, and blue so I pulled together some of my favorite team USA pieces and wanted to share them with you.

From top left

  1. Everyone needs a classic white hat in their closet and I love the blue edge detail on the visor on this one.

  2. This tote is not only patriotic but super practical and won’t show dirt!

  3. The perfect inexpensive T for cheering on team USA.

  4. Love this cute sweatshirt for the littles with the olympic rings below the flag.

  5. What’s better than the Olympics and Paris together? Love how this Etsy seller used the iconic Eiffel tower on this off-white T.

  6. The perfect pair of boyfriend socks to go with your sporty outfit.

  7. I love the oversized look of this blue sweatshirt. Super comfy as we head towards cooler temps this fall.

  8. A classic Polo Ralph Lauren USA T for your guy to wear while yelling at the TV.

  9. Love the vintage vibes from this red and white crewneck tank.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Summer Edit

Amazon finds, summer home accessories, interior design books, boston interior designer, boston landscae designer, boston landscape architect, best of boston, outdoor entertaining, cordless lamps, rattan baskets, scallops, de gournay, rattan box

Besides painting your walls one of the easiest ways to update your home is with art and accessories. The list of artwork resources is in the works but for now I’ve rounded up some of my favorite affordable finds to add a pop of summer to your home.

*From top left

This summer scent is a go to hand soap and the packaging also looks classic in any powder bath or kitchen.

My stripe obsession is quite pleased with these wide stripe turkish beach towels.

This pretty book will add that pop of fresh summer green to your coffee table tableau.

These blue and white boxes are a splurge but add a beautiful punch of color and pattern to bookshelves or an entryway console.

I love this pale powder blue color and the best part is these lamps are cordless and perfect for outdoor summer dining.

These scalloped baskets are the perfect place to hide your random mail and kid’s toys when tidying up quickly for guests. The top can also do double duty as a tray when flipped over!

I love these green water goblets, the end.

The green edge on these melamine plates is perfection and would look amazing with said water goblets.

De Gournay undoubtedly makes the most beautiful wallpapers of all time and their coffee table book is a fabulous way to bring some of that beauty into your own home.

I love these inexpensive Indian block print tablecloths to add pattern and color to outdoor dining.

These classic bistro chairs are the perfect compliment to any color scheme and great for outdoor use.

I love a small catchall tray for corralling jewelry or chapstick on my nightstand.

These rattan and glass top boxes are a go to for styling bookshelves. Perfect for hiding the remote (and more kid’s random stuff).

This scalloped frame adds a touch of whimsy without being too loud or juvenile.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is around the corner and I love to stick with classic options when selecting gifts for other people. Blues, greens, florals, and wicker are all colors and textures that can easily work into any home or wardrobe. I would be thrilled to add any one of these pretty things to my daily routine.

Seersucker PJ set, Bath Caddy, Scallop Tray, Gingham Socks, Green Stripe Lamp Shade, Wicker Lamp, Straw Tote, Tortoise Sunnies, Beeswax Candlesticks, Blue Hearts Tote, Green Block Print Tablecloth, Ivory Mules, Footed Wicker Bowl, Embroidered Napkins, Striped Pillow

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Virtual Design Consultations: Landscape & Interiors

We first introduced our virtual consultation back when covid hit in 2020 and we’re excited to bring them back (minus the covid aspect) as a service option. We’ve noticed an increase in recent requests for design advice that can be provided quickly and also on a smaller scale than some of our full-service renovation and new construction projects. We wanted to find a way that we could help and virtual consultations make the most sense for these types of projects.

Maybe you have plans from your architect for an addition or renovation and you would like a second set of eyes to review them and make suggestions or provide feedback on the layout. There are so many things that can go un-noticed and by the time you realize the issue it is often too late or very costly to fix. We can help avoid those problems.

Or, perhaps you are looking to upgrade your landscape and would like some suggestions for appropriate plants to work into certain areas that won’t overtake the home or plant beds down the road. Maybe you are looking to add a patio, pool, or walkway and need suggestions for materials that work with your home style.

Maybe you’ve recently purchased a new home and are looking for suggestions on furniture floorplans or where to shop for window treatments, furnishings, or need direction for the right white paint that won’t feel like a hospital room.

The list could go on an on but I think you get the idea. There are so many ways we can help and with minimal commitment. It’s truly amazing how much can be accomplished in one 55 minute session. We know you will come away with loads of advice and fresh ideas for your home design and landscape. Please don’t hesistate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to schedule your consultation.

Schedule your 30 minute or 55 minute session here.

Virtual Design Consultations for Landscape Design and Interior Design, Specialized in old homes, traditional interior designer, traditional landscape designer, landscape architect, virtual design, e-design, virtual design consult, renovations, decor
Virtual interior design consultation, virtual landscape design consultation, new england, 30 minute design consultation, 1 hour virtual design consultation, victorian homes, 1900's homes, virtual design, review architectural plans virtually
Floral bedroom design, boston interior design, virtual interior design based in the USA, traditional bedroom design, colorful bedroom design, old home love, green velvet headboard, plated floral shade, antique brass mirror, cream nightstand
northshore, MA landscape architect, Magnolia, MA, Gloucester, MA, landscape design, coastal landscape design, New England landscape design, New England landscape architect, Boston landscape architect, Custom stone walls sea wall, ocean front property
Boston interior designer with a traditional twist, old world interior designer, dark navy walls, library and dining room, boston interiors, custom built-ins, custom design in south boston, south boston high rise, new construction interior designer
Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Valentine’s Day Favorites

Valentine's day roundup, favorite valentine's day outfits, valentine's day pajamas, valentine's day house decor, valenetine's day purse, scalloped lamp shade, heart blanket, interior design, heart pillow, scalloped edges, heart door mat, red gingham

I think Valentine's Day is a fun way to break up the long winter months in New England. The cheerful mix of red, pink, and white always gets me and helps bring a little color to the winter blandness! I love it for both home and fashion so I’ve pulled together a Valentine’s Day roundup that includes a little bit of both.

Clockwise from top left

  1. This adorable quilted heart bag is the perfect Valentine’s Day date bag for obvious reasons.

  2. I love raffia shades and the scalloped red edge on this one is stunning. A little dash of red in a room can really elevate a space!

  3. This long pajama shirt looks incredibly comfy and still cute.

  4. This heart throw would be adorable all year long in a girl’s room.

  5. The color and length of this pretty pink coat is perfect for a transition to warmer months ahead.

  6. These heart sunnies feel very glam in white.

  7. I saw this heart lumbar pillow in store and it was so cute I think I will need to go back for it asap for my daughter’s room.

  8. I love tortoise but in the shape of a heart - j’dore.

  9. These red gingham hand towels are cute and not overly “Valentine’s Day” in your kitchen.

  10. I love a front door update and this heart coir mat is a great little touch this time of year.

  11. Love everything about this pretty in pink outfit, especially the long coat.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Classic Coffee Table Roundup

It’s the season for holiday parites and entertaining and having the perfect coffee table is key for allowing guest to spread out and enjoy the entire house and not just the kitchen. Classic coffee tables can be hard to find so I’ve pulled together a few of my favorites that are made from timeless materials and will work into many design styles.

From top left:

1.) This slightly rustic wood table adds the perfect amount of warmth to a family room or laid back living room design. I love the square shape and lower shelf for storing books and baskets.

2.) This lucite table is the perfect way to keep a room feeling uncluttered and also add a slightly modern touch to an otherwise traditional design.

3.) A classic brass table is a no fail. I like the extra detail on the corners of this one and the brighter brass finish.

4.)This iron table is durable and also pretty with it’s molded legs. A great way to add some contrast in a space.

5.) This round woven table is perfect in a traditional, casual, or coastal space. I love the curves on the base for a slightly feminine look.

6.) This square grasscloth wrapped table is a great size and perfect for a quiet backdrop for displaying books and objects.

7.) I love the shape and texture of this hexagon table. The sculptural look will immediately elevate any rooms decor.

8.) This classic iron and glass table is traditional yet modern at the same time and would work easily with many sofa styles.

9.) This burl wood table has beautiful tones and would add a lot of warmth to a den or formal living room.

10.) Cute rounded legs and brass details make this wood coffee table a perfect option to add a little mid-century style to any room.

11.) I love brass and this classic table with it’s mirrored top and knob details would add the perfect finishing touch to a formal living room.

12.) These rattan tables come in many colors and I love the beautiful detailing. Perfect for a coastal look or to add a bit of far east flair to any room.

13.) And last a very similiar table to #10 but I love that this one incorporates castors on the feet so it can be easily moved around.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Holiday Kitchen Accessories

It’s the time of year for entertaining and since we spend so much time entertaining in our kitchens I like to make sure to have some pretty things mixed in with the more functional items. Above is a round up of some of my favorite ways to add a touch of style to any kitchen.

Starting from top left

1.) This soap and lotion set with tray is the perfect way to both protect your countertops and add a bit of graphic flair to your sink area. I own a similar set and refill them regularly because they are so pretty!

2.) This oversized cutting board is stunning leaning against the wall or as a perfect backdrop for your charcuterie creations. I source many items from this vendor when at market and they are beautifully made.

3.) Does anyone else pull out the good towels when the guests arrive? Well this is exactly that with a beautiful embroidered detail. Perfect for kitchen or bath.

4.) This simple black cookbook stand looks great displaying your favorite recipe and is so helpful while cooking up a storm!

5.) Smeg hands down makes the most adorable appliances. This toaster would look great left out year round.

6.) I love a vintage inspired crock for holding all my utensils next to the stove. The stripe on this one is perfection.

7.) Spongeware is a favorite of mine to collect and use daily. This generous sized bowl would look perfect with fruit or styled on an open shelf.

8.) I love when functional items are pretty. This pot scrubber is so cute there’s no need to hide it.

9.) I love olives and naturally own an olive tree. Every kitchen needs a touch of green and I’m excited to add mine to my kitchen counters once our reno is complete!

10.) These Peugeot salt and pepper mills have been on my wishlist for a while. Perfect for sitting next to your stove to grab quickly while cooking.

11.) Cordless lamps are having a moment and I’m completely into it. Finally, freedom from cords! This petite lamp would be perfect on kitchen countertops for some added ambiance.

12.) Turkish runners are the perfect way to add softness and pattern to a kitchen. Super durable and great at hiding an occasional spill. I like to source mine from etsy.

13.) These melamine plates are beautiful and also practical. Perfect for setting a sophisticated kid’s table. Train them young!

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Design Books Wishlist

I’ve rounded up the design books I’m including on my wishlist this year

I love finding inspiration outside of the usual places (looking at you Pinterest & Instagram) and design books are a great place to do that. Every year I like to add a few to my library and I’ve rounded up some of the books that are on my wishlist this year.

Clockwise from top left

1. I already own Patrcik’s other book Timeless (which I reference often!) and this one based on the renovation of this historic hotel looks just as interesting and a great source for studying all the classic details Patrick is so good at incorporating into his work.

2. Not only is the cover of Charm School by F.Schumacher beautiful but it is also full of so many charming and unique spaces (I had a look through it recently in Barnes & Noble). Definitely a front runner on my list.

3. I’ve long admired Jean Stoffer’s work, especially her kitchen designs. She has a beautiful way of creating moody and layered spaces but also incorporates unexpected modern elements into her designs.

4. Shea McGee continues to inspire not only with her design sensibilities but also her incredible work ethic. Her new book The Art of Home is full of light and bright spaces and the book itself is also a small work of art.

5. Ok, I may have initially chosen this book because of the cover but the imagery inside is equally inspiring with layered rooms and beautiful entertaining ideas and tablescapes. Great inspiration for the holidays, I’m really looking forward to studying every detail.

6. Ashley Gilbreath is one of my favorite designers. Her use of antqiues and classic furnishings mixed with beautiful textiles and patterns is a great example of good taste and timeless design.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Laurel House Lighting

I wanted to share some of the lighting selections I’ll be using in Laurel House. My goal with the lighting is to keep an overall classic but slightly granny chic look with some unexpected touches. I’ll be keeping the metal finish mainly to antique brass but mixing in some fabric shades and interesting shapes to keep the look feeling collected and unique.

Clockwise starting from top left:

1.) This sconces with it’s simple shape and metal shade is a classic look perfect for a powder bath or accent lighting.

2.) I love the sculptural leaf shape of this light and plan to use a pair of them in my upstairs mudroom above an antique bench.

3.) This drum shape pendant has the perfect mix of softness and shine. The plan is for this light to hang over our breakfast nook table off the kitchen.

4.) A pair of these classic bell sconces will greet guest and make a nice statement in our front entry.

5.) This star shaped ceiling fixture is going to make a really fun and playful light fixture in our attic den and adjacent guest.

6.) This fluted sconce has the perfect balance of nostalgia while still remaining classic. We’ll be using this fixture in our kid’s bath mounted horizontally above the vanity mirror. This light also looks great in pairs mounted vertically next to a mirror.

7.) This sconce is a classic and I love it paired with this William Morris shade. The plan is to mount one of these on either end of the sink wall in our kitchen.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Fall Finds

A collection of my favorite finds for fall, a brass lamp, faux potted plant, silk pleated skirt, weekender bag, white bakeware

Fall finds including a leopard coat, brass lamp, scalloped ceramic loaf pan, pleated skirt, weekender bag, brass table lamp, and faux floral

It’s no secret Fall is a favorite for many of us and I am no exception. The shorter days, moody colors, and cozy feel gets me excited to do a little refresh of both home and wardrobe every year. I pulled together a few favorites to inspire your own fall refresh.

  1. This scalloped loaf pan is a classic and is so pretty it can go straight from oven to table for serving.

  2. I’m obsessed with having plants around all year round and not just in the warmer months. If you’re worried about keeping house plants alive in the winter these potted faux florals are no maintenance and really acts like a piece of art they’re so beautifully made.

  3. I love a statement jacket for fall and winter. It’ hard to look put together with all the layers we need in New England so a jacket is a great way to still show your style.

  4. Adding a touch of brass is something I do in almost every space I design. This all brass table lamp is a perfect way to do it!

  5. I picked up this pleated skirt recently and I love that I can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. It’s also hard to beat the comfort of an elastic waist!

  6. Varley is my go to for quality athletic wear and this half zip pull over would be perfect with a pair of legging for the weekend.

  7. I’ve been on the look out for a weekend bag and this one in brown caught my eye.

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: 4th of July Roundup

  1. Sailboat Art: Wall art is always a good idea, it can enhance a space and truly make it feel complete. This adorable sailboat is perfect for the summer months and will remind you of swimming in the ocean and walking in the sunshine when the winter months roll in.

  2. Striped Tank: The perfect layering piece to give your plain outfit a little pattern. The scoop neck and rounded hem give this tank a lovely shape.

  3. Denim Jacket: A casual staple for the summer months, this denim jacket is buttery soft and the subtle star pattern makes it absolutely perfect for this patriotic day.

  4. Smocked Top: Chic and feminine, this lightweight smocked blouse works with denim shorts for a day look or a colorful skirt for an evening event. The puff sleeve adds that extra flair to make this top a standout.

  5. Scalloped Mirror: The perfect accent mirror for your foyer, bathroom or bedroom. The grey/blue color goes with so many color palettes and the scalloped edge is a welcome detail.

  6. Cordless Table Lamp: A cordless table lamp that can light your dining table both indoors and outdoors. This is such a great piece for summer entertaining and it comes in an array of colors.

  7. Melamine Accent Plate: Lovely chinoiserie motifs cover these easy to clean and shatterproof melamine plates. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these plates will dress up any table and you won’t have to worry about breakage.

  8. Block-print tablecloth: This beautiful floral block printed pattern tablecloth will dress up any table. The playful colors and pattern keep it casual and fun so you can curate a laidback yet elevated tablescape.

  9. Shower curtain: This tassel edge shower curtain will add a hint of bright color to any bathroom. Classic and refined with a dash of whimsy, this will work with all design styles.

  10. Striped Sheet Set: An updated version of a classic red and white stripe. This washed linen set has wonderful texture and tone and will add a lovely detail to any bedroom. And of course, who doesn’t love a ruffle edge.

  11. Adirondack Chair: A slightly more modern version of the beloved Adirondack chair, this colorful seat is surprisingly comfortable and is a welcome addition to any yard.

    *some affiliate links used

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Beach Day Roundup

  1. Straw Hat: A lovely blend of form and function. This straw hat works well to accessorize a beach day outfit whilst protecting your face from the bright summer sun.

  2. Ruffle Button Down: This short-sleeved button down is a staple for the summer months. It can be worn to the beach with a bathing suit and sandals or styled with jeans and heels for an evening look. The ruffled sleeve gives this top a little something extra and will continue to look fresh as the season progresses.

  3. Beach Short: Smocked, high-waisted shorts that are prefect for a beach day. They are flowy and comfortable but still keep your look elevated and neat.

  4. Woven Tote: This bag can be taken anywhere and everywhere! It includes a drawstring closure and crossbody strap. It is the perfect size to fit all of your essentials including your favorite beach read.

  5. Espadrille: Hand-crafted with locally sourced rope and linen, these are an easy slip on shoe that are highly breathable and functional.

  6. Turkish Towel: A beach day MUST! This absorbent Turkish towel has a subtle stripe and playful fringe edge.

  7. Light Blue Sandals: This classic Birkenstock sandal is popular for a reason. Incredibly comfortable and supportive, this shoe will never disappoint.

  8. Beach Umbrella: A very stylish addition to your beach day set-up. This chic umbrella is simple to put up and will leave you in the shade all day long.

  9. Paddle Game: A fun outdoor activity for so many ages. It is waterproof and will last for years to come.

  10. Striped Beach Towel: You can never have too many towels for a beach day. Highly contrasted with blue-and-white stripes this towel will always be in style.

  11. .Cooler Bag: An enjoyable beach day always includes food and cold drinks. This bag will hold all of your necessary sustenance and will keep everything cool. Not only is this bag incredibly functional, it features wonderful colors and patterns that are sure to turn heads.

    *some affiliate links used

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Spring Wardrobe Refresh

  1. Sweater: A really versatile piece to start wearing now and all the way through summer on chilly nights. It had a slightly cropped fit so it's perfect to pair with high waist pants. Love the button detail on the sleeves. 

  2. Colorful Denim: The time of year always has me craving color. This subtle pop of pink is an easy way to incorporate some fun into your wardrobe. 

  3. Sneaker: My favorite lightweight slip on shoe that's perfect for spring and all summer long. The stretchy material is so comfortable. 

  4. Jean Jacket: I haven't owned a Jean jacket since high school and I'm not sure what took me so long to buy another one. The fit on this is classic and works over basically any outfit. Perfect for the Winter to Spring transition. 

  5. Shorts: My new favorite pair of shorts. The high waist fit is so comfy and the fabric is perfect for eveyday wear or for throwing over a bathing suit at the beach. 

  6. Summer Tote: The perfect size bag for spring and summer outings. Not too big but large enough to carry all your essentials plus some room to spare. 

  7. Heart Shirt: We may be past Valentine's Day but I love a heart shirt year round. This one has the perfect slouchy fit for tucking into jeans. 

  8. Jogger: Great alternative to a legging. Love the slightly loose fit and the high waist. Cute with a sweater and sneaks for running errands of perfect for a jog or hike too. 

  9. Embroidered Shirt: Another perfect winter to spring transition piece. Love the embroidery and ruffle details. 

  10. Classic Jean: The 70's has always been my favorite clothing era. These jeans have that wide leg retro feel and I'm loving them paired with a blousy top. 

    *some affiliate links used

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Wallpaper Pairings Roundup

As the cold and grey landscape continue to fill our days, I look to floral and vegetal patterns to remind me that spring will come. Here are a few truly lovely wallpapers that have been on my mind recently. I paired each paper with a paint color that I might use for trim or millwork to really pull the look together. One of the most important aspects when purchasing patterned wallpaper is the scale of the pattern. The look of your room will be completely different if the pattern is very small or much larger and more graphic.

  1. Morris & Company Slate/Ivory paired with Oval Room Blue

  2. Bowood paired with Lamp Room Gray

  3. Lucinda Stripe paired with Miami Parasol

  4. Nasturtium Meadow paired with Breakfast Room Green

  5. Dolly Stripe paired with De Nimes

  6. Grace Floral paired with Novelty Wave

    *some affiliate links used

Read More
Christina Wikman Christina Wikman

Field Notes: Outdoor Entertaining Roundup

With Labor Day around the corner (I know, the horror) we wanted to share some ideas for an end of summer soiree. Gone of the days of plain old boring plastic cups! There are so many fun pieces out there to make your outdoor entertaining tablescape exciting yet durable. Here are just a few ideas to get the juices flowing.

  1. Portable Speaker: Waterproof and wireless, these speakers will take your backyard gathering and turn it into a party! High quality sound and long lasting battery these speakers will always come in handy.

  2. Tabletop Fire Bowl: This tabletop fire pit is all the ambience and none of the mess. It will bring the crackle of a campfire right to your table and is sure to impress your guests.

  3. Votive Candle Holders: These delicate votive candle holders will add elegance and warmth to your outdoor table scape.

  4. Outdoor Lantern: Outdoor lanterns are a lovely way to elevate a backyard into an entertaining space. Depending on the size, lanterns can be placed on tables or clustered and placed on the ground, near seating areas or around a pool.

  5. Flameless Pillar Candles: Electric candles are a great compromise for those who enjoy dinner by candlelight but don’t want to worry about a gust of wind ruining the evening. These candles are perfect for lanterns and can be turned on and off remotely.

  6. Citronella Hanging Incense: Bugs be gone! This Citronella incense burner will deter mosquitos and will not release a harsh, chemical smell. Plus, its color and shape resemble a piece of artwork or outdoor decor.

  7. Floral Placemats: These floral placemats scream summer dining! They are a fun and functional way to incorporate color onto your table. They are stain resistant and machine washable so don’t worry about those ice cream spills or ketchup stains.

  8. Outdoor Blanket: For when the sun goes down and the temperature drops. This cozy blanket is a generous size and is suitable for all of the natural elements. It can be transported easily for sunsets on the beach or picnics in the park.

  9. Melamine Dish Set: Plastic plates have come a long way in recent years. These melamine dishes have a subtle blue and white pattern and look exactly like fine china. They are perfect for an outdoor barbecue or a day at the beach.

  10. Paddle Ball Set: An activity is always a good way to keep guests entertained. Paddle ball is a game that requires a lot of hand-eye coordination but once you get going it’s hard to stop! These glossy wooden paddles also look very chic when placed by the pool or on a patio.

  11. Enamel Drink Bucket: Cool drinks are a necessity at any summer gathering. This white enamel container brings an elegant touch to a usually bulky and visually unappealing cooler. This bucket can also double as a towel holder or shoe bin.

  12. Beverage Dispenser: For when you want your signature drink to shine. This large glass beverage dispenser will make your homemade lemonade that much more appealing. It is also a great way to keep the bugs out of your drinks!

    *some affiliate links used

Read More