Creating Balance with Getaway

It must have been May or June when Getaway first popped up on my radar. Their tiny cabins nestled in nature were instantly appealing to my boyfriend, Aaron, and I – we’re not very outdoorsy, but loved the idea of getting off the grid for even an evening and were thrilled that dogs are welcome. We’d originally planned for a trip timed to the changing leaves in autumn, but life intervened and we weren’t able to make it happen. Lucky for us, Getaway reached out last month to see if we wanted to try out their Beaver Creek outpost in Ohio that’s only a short 35 minute drive from our house.

Our overnight trip was scheduled for early December, the perfect time to sneak away during the holiday hustle. (Also, part of my plan to not over-stress this month!) In the weeks leading up to our visit, Getaway kept us updated regularly, from confirming our reservation to what necessities were provided to which cabin we’d been assigned to the morning of.

Getaway Beaver Creek includes 26 mini cabins grouped together, but you’d never know there were so many. One of the first things we noticed upon arrival were the earthen mounds built up in between cabin to add an extra layer of privacy, as well as the fact that the other guests were respectfully quiet.

When we pulled up to our cabin – Catherine – we immediately felt welcome and like they got us, right down to the dog tether tied around one leg of the picnic table. The mini cabin itself was sleek and minimal from the outside with no extra frills, but with that setup and the view none were needed. The Adirondack chairs spread around the fire pit wouldn’t get used on our December visit, but I don’t think we were inside the door before starting to talk about a return trip during nicer weather.

Our dog-friendly cabin (don’t worry, there are designated dog-free cabins as well!) had two queen size beds, one lofted above the other. If you’re at all familiar with Getaway, you’ve likely seen photos of the gigantic window that’s part of every cabin, and I promise it did not disappoint in the slightest. Our two dogs – Piper and Bebe – were especially impressed, as you’ll see.

The locks to the doors use touch pads, you’ll receive your code a few hours before arrival along with your cabin’s name. All of the cabins are named after people significant to Getaway’s crew, we were assigned Catherine.

This is what awaited us on the other side of that door, a small yet incredibly organized space that didn’t feel cramped. To the left were the two beds, a small table with two chairs, and a built-in bench along the side of the bottom bed. And yes, even a landline for emergencies.

Straight ahead was this well-appointed kitchen that included a small refrigerator, two burner cooktop, and sink with potable water. Along with a kettle, dishes, bowls, cups, mugs, one pot, one pan, and other kitchen tools, there were also various provisions available for purchase that had clearly been chosen with care. Under the sink we found two bowls for the dogs and poop bags, plus paper towels and a small garbage can.

To the right was a small bathroom with a standard toilet, shower stall with shampoo and conditioner, and a first-aid kit. There were fold down hooks both here for towels and behind the front door for jackets, leashes, etc. The bathroom had a narrow shelf on one wall to accommodate toiletries as well as clean white towels stacked up ready and waiting.

The little touches went a long way, like this welcome folder and the s’mores kit awaiting us on the table. Included inside were the outpost’s general rules and regulations, local necessities, and important wildlife precautions. There was also a map, inspiration and ideas for your escape, postcards, and a set of mini colored pencils.

Cell reception in the area wasn’t great to begin with (we weren’t expecting it to be), but if you really want to test yourself and get away from technology there’s a handy Cellphone Lockbox at the ready.

We played music over a small but fantastic Tivoli speaker. Above it sat a small selection of books just right for the low-key environment, along with cards and dice.

A USB-charged camping lantern hung to the side of each bed that could be used as a reading lamp, a nightlight, or carried outside to the picnic table/fire pit area. We also loved that the outlet included USB ports for charging devices when necessary.

Piper and Bebe were obsessed with exploring “the woods” and keeping watch outside of the cabin’s windows. The dark shades came in handy not only during the night, but when they spied a neighboring dog they wanted to say hello to! Each cabin is equipped with both heat and AC, and it was pleasantly warmer than our 119 year old house. The sheets were soft and cozy, the duvet nice and heavy, and the pillows so comfortable (this, coming from a pillow snob). Piper was an especially big fan of the Pendleton wool blanket at the foot of the bed. The pups were so relaxed afterwards that they slept the entire way home as well as throughout the next day.

We ended up setting their dog beds on the large ledge next to the bed when it came time to sleep, and they loved it. It was also a nice spot to lounge and acted as a nightstand.

Dinner was pasta we’d brought from home and cooked there – the pot provided even had a built-in strainer in the lid. Like I said, they really considered and thought of just about everything. (We did forget the pasta sauce and had to make a run to the local grocery, which we knew about thanks to the info they’d provided in our welcome folder.) For breakfast we made some protein pancakes with mix we’d carried along. Aaron enjoyed coffee from the provisions – a one time use, disposable, recycled, pour over bag – while I enjoyed mint tea from home.

Like I mentioned above, we loved the location as well as the drive time to Beaver Creek. All of the mini cabins were organized around this grove of beautiful trees, and we really lucked out with some of the most beautiful weather the area had seen in a few weeks. Getaway has partnered with One Tree Planted to plant a new tree for every cabin that’s booked – so far they’re at +8,500 trees!

I really don’t get much more relaxed than this! And we really are already planning a return trip, there’s a loyalty program in place – The Getaway Often Club – and if you spend seven nights the eighth is free. And as a special treat Getaway has setup a $25 off code – DESIGNCRUSH25 – for you to take advantage of! Whether you’re already looking for a post-holiday wind down or thinking ahead to summer, I highly recommend the Getaway experience.

This post sponsored by Getaway. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush create fresh content!

2

Take The Indoors Out with TimberTech

 

This spring we’ve been tackling typical outdoor projects around the house. Flowerbeds weeded and mulched? Check. Patchy spots in the backyard filled in? Yes. Wooden patio set coated in protective polyurethane? Done. Now I’ve started setting my sights on something a bit more ambitious – the decks.

When I bought my home both the upper and lower decks were painted a dark brown in the hopes of mimicking rich wood tones, but they failed and the paint has slowly been chipped and washed away. We’ve powerwashed them and considered re-staining, but at this point the wood may be too weathered for it to make much of a difference. That’s when TimberTech showed up on my radar. Their composite decking has been designed for high-performance and beauty, engineered to last longer than other wood alternatives, and with the most natural hardwood look.

 

 

I’m not the most ardent at taking on outdoor tasks, so much of the initial appeal of TimberTech’s capped PVC decking – both in the core and on the surface – is in how easy it is to maintain while remaining sustainable. It resists mold and mildew, is long-lasting with a great warranty, and has unlimited design potential. TimberTech’s sturdy, wood-like texture comes in vibrant colors and diverse grain options to match whatever look you’re aiming for.

 

 

 

One of the most exciting recent advancements is TimberTech AZEK’s Multi-Width Decking. Their Vintage Collection Deck and Porch boards give you loads of flexibility in dimension, style, color, and pattern by offering board sizes in multiple widths – standard, narrow, and wide. Go ahead and create a decking design that is uniquely yours and make a real statement by mixing and matching.

TimberTech is so easy to work with that you can make it a do-it-yourself deck project, or hire a contractor and forget about it. The boards are engineered to age very well, and the colors are even backed by a 50-year limited fade and stain warranty. Choose from palette ranging from rich browns to grays and natural hardwoods like mahogany. The profile of every board has a solid feel under your feet, much like traditional decking but better because the sturdy capping repels scratches, dents, and even insects. Your TimberTech composite deck can take just about anything!

 

Clockwise from left: Azek Vintage Collection in Coastline, Azek Vintage Collection in Mahogany, Azek Harvest Collection in Brownstone, Azek Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

Take advantage of the outdoor real estate that’s at your fingertips and extend the indoors out. That also speaks to your interior style – carry the colors and patterns you use in your home out onto your deck with throw pillows, lanterns, and furniture for a cohesive feel that carries throughout. Make your deck and your outdoor space an entertainment hub that you can enjoy all summer long!

Design an outdoor space that perfectly captures your personal style. TimberTech makes finding inspiration easy – you can check out their Instagram gallery or if you’re chomping at the bit to start planning now, use their three-step process for choosing the right deck. You can even order free samples right here. I can speak firsthand to how solid the boards are and just how beautiful the wood tones look. TimberTech is shaping the future of decking with the use of recycled materials, conservation practices, and a new state-of-the-art recycling plant, and I’m looking forward to hopefully making it a part of my home.

 

Clockwise from top: Azek Vintage Collection in Coastline, Azek Vintage Collection in Mahogany, Azek Harvest Collection in Brownstone, Azek Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

 

TimberTech AZEK Arbor Collection in Brownstone

 

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection Mahogany

 

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection Mahogany

 

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection in Coastline

 

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection in Coastline

 

TimberTech AZEK Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

This post is sponsored by TimberTech. As always, all words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep Design Crush creating fresh content!

 

2

Spring Tidying is in Full Swing!

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com. All words and opinions are, as always, my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush create fresh content!

 

 

Nothing has ever kicked my butt into Spring Cleaning Mode like my boyfriend moving in being on the horizon. But I’m already getting ahead of myself because, well, I’m not a great housekeeper. Everything is tidy for the most part, but when it’s just me there are definitely dishes in the sink and little tumbleweeds of dog hair in the corners of the living room. I’ve had about two months to prepare for A’s arrival and it was filled by lists of to-dos, but the timing coincided with me accepting a new job and I think I maybe crossed off three things. What it comes down to is that my time is valuable because it doesn’t seem like there’s as much as there used to be – I value things that help me take advantage of what there is.

 

 

While we’re a ways out from doing any major kitchen updates, I’ve long wanted to research some projects like refinishing the cabinetry. N-Hance Wood Refinishing products are designed specifically for cabinets rather than walls and very durable as you can see after I put some samples to the test with both sandpaper and a hammer! (See the results below.) Their products are low VOC for a healthier kitchen remodel and cured with UV light for an immediate smooth, rock-hard finish. They can color match anything and going this route is a lot more affordable than traditional remodeling, leaving more money for things like countertops and appliances.

 

 

 

As I mentioned, vacuuming is far from my favorite chore and something I really struggle to carve out time for. (Which really isn’t cool because I have five pets!) I’ve always been a little leery of robotic vacuums because they almost seem too good to be true. Would it be loud? Would it really get those dog hair tumbleweeds out of the corners? Would it suck up the fringe on my rugs? No, yes, and not if you fold them under first. At least that’s been my experience with the ECOVACS DEEBOT 600 which can tackle both bare floors and carpets with ease and bounces off of obstacles without causing any damage. It’s smarthome compatible, so I can fire it up from just abut anywhere either by using the app, the remote, or my Google Home (it works with Amazon, too). I was nervous the debris container wouldn’t be large enough to hold all of that aforementioned pet hair, but was pleasantly surprised to find I only need to empty it once after cleaning the entire first floor. This is definitely the closest I’ll come to living like the Jetson’s!

 

 

 

Dishes are quite possibly the chore I’m worst at. I do have a dishwasher that’s quite new, but it needs serviced so I’ve been washing them the old-fashioned way – by hand. Sponges aren’t my favorite because of all the bacteria they can harbor and the smells that come along with it, so I was really looking forward to trying out the Scrub Daisy by Scrub Daddy. This dishwand has an interchangeable system of cleaning heads that are uniquely shaped to scrub various shaped objects (think baby bottles, baking pans, etc). The ergonomic handle dispenses soap while you clean and the valet that comes with it all holds the pieces and self-drains. (Get $1 off any Scrub Daddy product here and try it for yourself!)

What products are you loyal to or looking for to make taking care of your household easier?

 

2

CASETiFY’s Phone Cases Take It to the Next Level with Art + Customization

 

Our phones are practically part of our wardrobes at this point, so it only makes sense that you would want a case that reflects your own personal style aesthetic. I’ve used phone cases from so many companies over the years, and the latest I’ve put to the test are from CASETiFY. I’m clumsy, I even managed to crack off a corner of Apple’s own silicone case, so when I say “test” you can believe it’s true. After a few weeks of use I can vouch for these guys, the side bumpers are especially tough which I love. Almost as much as I love the vast selection and customization options. Customize the heck out of one of their cases or go even further and design your own. CASETiFY is the leading artist-based community in the tech realm, which I’m happy to share and support – to be honest, it’s what sent me their way in the first place.

 

 

CASETiFY’s latest collaborative collection is with Amsterdam-based illustrator Bodil Jane, who I’m a longtime fan of. Her playful designs are available for both your phone and your Apple Watch. I went with the Eyes design, it allows the color of your phone to show through as the background and the eyes have the slightest bit of texture to them.

Bodil shares, “To celebrate the arrival of Spring, I wanted to incorporate lots of plants and nature-inspired designs, mixed into a collection full of playful colors. Much of the inspiration comes from my collection of antique botanical books. I wanted the collection to feel fresh, light and like something everyone wants to carry around all spring and summer. I’m really happy with the outcome!”

 

 

 

You just can’t go wrong with a clean marble look, seen here in minimal white. After having a few cases that were made of actual marble, which I promptly damaged, this looks just like the real deal and doesn’t weigh nearly as much.

 

 

 

This Neon Sand case will be going on my phone as soon as summer makes an appearance. The collection is available in four colors (VIP berry/violet seen here) and has some customization available that I opted out of. It’s a nice stress reliever to watch the sand move around the case and get this – it glows in the dark! If that doesn’t say SUMMER FUN, I’m not sure what does.

 

 

 

I received product from CASETiFY in exchange for this post. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content! You can also check out their exclusive collections with Nordstrom and Anthropologie.

1

Fresh Business Cards for a Fresh Start

 

At the start of the month I mentioned how I’ve been taking on more projects outside of Design Crush. Turns out that when you’ve been one thing for so long – nearly 12 years – a change of perspective helps with the next chapter going forward. In my case, a change of identity as I went back to being Kelly Beall. Getting some fresh business cards seemed like the best place to start.

 

 

Basic Invite has a nice collection of specialty business cards with plenty of modern designs to choose from, along with every other style you might be after. They offer over 180 color options, coordinate with your business or just choose your favorite. You can apply a different color and font to every element of your personalized business cards if you’d like! Speaking of fonts, there’s a library to choose from – but if that sounds too overwhelming you can just go with what they’ve suggested on the template. If you want to get extra customized choose the foil option that’s available in silver, gold, and rose gold, or the clear card.

 

 

I chose the Modern Hello design, perfect for handing out to potential clients. I love the clean lines, bold type, and straightforwardness of the layout partnered with that bright punch of green. And speaking as a graphic designer, it was a nice change of pace to find several designs that I didn’t need to change a thing on to suit my own taste.

 

 

 

Basic Invite offers a lot beyond business cards online, they’re also one of few sites that give customers the ability to order a printed sample of their actual invitation before they ever place their final order. Test the paper, see the quality, make sure everything meets your expectations – then choose from 40 colors of envelopes to make the perfect invite for your event. To make the process even easier, they offer an address capturing service allowing customers to share a link on any social media platform to request their friends and family’s addresses. The addresses will then be stored in your account and can be selected during the design process.

If all of that doesn’t make you want to check out Basic Invite, well, they’re currently offering 15% off with code 15FF51.

 

 

This post is sponsored by Basic Invite. Thank you for supporting that brands that help keep Design Crush kicking!

0

Reinventing the Recliner

 

When you stop to think about recliners, what do you picture? I’m willing to bet your mind will lead you down the same path as mine, toward the bulky upholstered chairs of your childhood that were likely helmed by and reserved for your dad or your grandfather. They probably look nothing like any piece of furniture in your own home today, but thankfully the recliner has been quietly reinvented for a more modern home by American Leather.

 

 

I, for one, am thrilled – because man, are recliners comfortable or what?! I have a lot of fond memories of curling up in my Dad’s cumbersome chair, and these new designs are equally as welcoming. The seven sleek silhouettes are stylish and modern, two things I look for in every piece I bring into my own home. And when closed and upright you might never even know that these clean-lined chairs are concealing a reclinable feature.

 

 

When creating your chair choose from literally hundreds of color and texture options, making your custom modern day recliner perfectly suited to whatever kind of lifestyle happens within the walls of your home. There’s microfiber for homes with children or clumsy adults, cozy chenilles for the homebody, and of course natural classics like leather for a timeless aesthetic. Even with customizations you’ll have your new recliner in about 30 days.

 

 

My favorite design, and the one seen throughout this post, is the Aston. I love its obvious mid-century design influences and the natural walnut frame that conceals its reclining capabilities. It features a slightly curved back that just begs to be curled up in! Have a look at American Leather‘s entire line and see how innovation really is at the heart of everything they do.

 

 

This post sponsored by American Leather. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush create fresh, inspired content regularly!

4

The Magic of Linen + 5 Linen Care Tips

 

Warm, breezy days and flowing linens were made for one another. The centuries old fabric is made from the fibers of the flax plant, and the lightweight, breathable fabric is perfect for slower, more rumpled days. You’ll notice I didn’t bother to iron out the fold seams in these photos, and that’s because I think they add to the charm of all things linen.

MagicLinen is a family business located in Lithuania that combines their knowledge of textiles and love of décor to create linen pieces meant to be passed down through generations. All of the company’s goods are made from high quality European OEKO-TEX certified linen fabric and is softened through stonewashing, the modern way of doing so without any harmful chemicals. MagicLinen’s collection is entirely handmade and includes linen bedding, clothing, napkins, towels, placemats, table runners, towels, scarves, aprons, and more.

 

 

“We care a lot about eco-friendly, organic and slow living. We cherish classic values, at the same time being modern, opened to a world and new ideas, doing our best with a lot of enthusiasm and hard work. These principles reflect in the goods we deliver – we choose the most organic fabrics and enjoy the process of making items by hand than going to big factories.”

 

 

MagicLinen is aptly named, because the fabric really is just that and has been used through the ages to make everything from canvases and wallpaper to clothing and bedding. It’s super durable because linen is naturally thicker and 30% stronger than cotton, so it will keep its shape and withstand more washings while growing softer over time. It can absorb up to 20% of its own weight in water before starting to feel damp and dries quickly, making linen the perfect material for bath towels and clothing. The material is also a natural insulator meaning it keeps you cool in the summer and retains heat from your body in the colder months. It’s also hypoallergenic which is fantastic for people who have sensitive skin or suffer from allergies. A big bonus – linen is sustainable and eco-friendly.

 

 

I’m not fussy when it comes to the textiles in my home or in my wardrobe, so MagicLinen’s pieces fit right in. The dishtowels are super absorbent, the bed linens so cool and soft for summer, and the tablecloth and napkins my favorite options for pulling together a quickly dressed table. I want these pieces to last for along time, so I did my research when it comes to caring for them.

Washing
Linen items can be both hand washed and machine washed, though preferably on their own. When machine washing use the gentle cycle with warm water with a mild detergent. For hand washing also use warm water and about a teaspoon of mild detergent. Allow the linen to soak for 10 minutes before swishing it around while avoiding the urge to wring, twist, or scrub as it can stretch the fabric. Rinse with cool water until all of the soap is gone. To combat any stubborn stains, soak the spot in a detergent and water solution and launder as usual.

Drying
Washed linens can be machine dried on low heat. Remove them from the dryer while still slightly damp and hang or lie flat to dry completely. Air drying adds softness to the linen items, you can line-dry lay them flat on a white towel. The only linen pieces that will ever require dry cleaning are more structured garments such as linen jackets, suits, and hemstitched items in order to preserve their shape.

Avoid
Bleaching your linens or using detergents with optical brighteners can weaken linen’s fibers and cause discoloration. Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can weaken the fibers and reduce their absorbency and moisture-wicking properties. Don’t store linen in plastic bags, instead choose linen bags or reuse old pillowcases.

Ironing
I prefer the wrinkled look, but if you’d like a crisper appearance you can use a medium-hot iron on the fabric while it’s still damp or overlay it with a damp towel.

Storing
Make sure they’re are completely dry to avoid mildew before storing your linens in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area that’s located away from direct sunlight.

 

This post sponsored by MagicLinen. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting our carefully chosen partners that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content!

0

Adding Exterior Character with James Hardie

 

It’s been nearly four years since I found myself buying an old house and moving back to the Pennsylvania town where I grew up. As you’ve seen, since then I’ve put my modern and eclectic stamp on the 118-year-old structure through projects and updates while trying to retain its character. I’ve added window shutters to the front facade, switched out all of the interior doorknobs, and replaced the front and backdoor entry sets among many other things.

The exterior is still not where I’d like it to be however, and doesn’t match up with my aesthetic. My hope is to give it a much needed facelift with new siding, as well as boxing in those columns and adding a porch that most certainly existed at some point in the past.

 

 

For your reference, this photo was taken last summer. The light fixture and mailbox have been replaced and some new plants have been added to the front flower bed, but that’s the extent of this past year’s progress.

One of my biggest peeves about the curb appeal – where the majority of the house’s character lies – is the mix of sidings used, both in colors as well as directionality. While I understand that this is an aesthetic some prefer, I’d love to have wide plank horizontal siding in one style and one color.

 

 

Something like this.

After putting some research time into this eventual project, I realized what a massive collection of products James Hardie has to offer as well as the quality that backs them up. Their product line offers a great selection of profiles, textures, widths, and colors, while their commitment to artistry and innovation allows for timeless designs and performance.

 

 

Now for the nitty gritty. James Hardie‘s ColorPlus Technology coats surfaces, edges, and features of each siding plank uniformly while multiple layers of color are baked onto each board for a great finish and a strong bond that resists chipping, peeling, cracking, and fading for years to come. With HardiePlank lap siding, HardieShingle siding, and HardiePanel vertical siding, you have the design versatility to achieve a look that’s sure to stand out on your street. They also allow you to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a 30-year non-prorated warranty on siding, a 15-year non-prorated warranty on trim, and ColorPlus Technology with a 15-year limited finish warranty.

 

 

Only James Hardie fiber cement products are Engineered for Climate. In the northern U.S. and Canada, HZ5 products resist shrinking, swelling, and cracking even after years of wet or freezing conditions. (Perfect for climate zones that experience it all, like Pennsylvania!) HZ10 products resist damage from hot, humid conditions, blistering sun and more. These products are actually tougher than the elements – they stand up to storms and harsh weather, are water resistant to protect against swelling, warping and cracking, and also resist mold. They’re fire resistant and her reduce the time and money you’d spend on maintenance of other materials. With all of these assurances you can feel good about everything James Hardie has to offer.

 

 

At this point I have a specific idea of how I’d like to add more character to the exterior of my home, but if you need some help check out James Hardie’s site for additional design inspiration. And if you’d like to check out their siding in person be sure and request some free samples to compare – choose from textured, smooth, or beaded.

 

 

This post sponsored by James Hardie. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting our carefully chosen partners that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content! Follow James Hardie on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Houzz, and YouTube.

0

Creativity Takes Courage: Dare to Think Differently + A Giveaway

 

Creativity tends to show up in my life as a feast or famine – is it like that for you, too? This year has particularly been full of highs and lows and I’m hoping everything will even out soon enough, after all challenging times generally point towards periods of growth.

The latest book from the co-founders and creative directors of Flow Magazine, Irene Smit and Astrid Van der Hulst, and Workman Publishing couldn’t have better timing. Creativity Takes Courage: Dare to Think Differently was released earlier this week. (If you’re unfamiliar with Flow, it’s a magazine that celebrates creativity, imperfection, and life’s little pleasures.) This is a creative book like no other – simultaneously a practical, hands-on guide to stretching your creative muscles as well as an inspirational book that focuses on the pleasure of the process.

 

 

Creativity Takes Courage is organized around a series of twelve so-called dares that are intended to break you out of your usual creative habits and provide a fresh perspective to help you step outside of your comfort zone. (And man, do I need that frequently!) It’s a book both about creativity and a book that inspires creativity with tons of prompts, tips, and challenges to complete in your own time.

 

 

Most chapters end with an And Now You section of questions, the answers to which can be written directly right in the book. These questions follow the theme of the chapter – reexamining something you may consider a failure that could be seen as a learning process or questions that might help you break down a new project or challenge into more manageable parts for example.

 

 

There are lots of pull-out extras throughout the book – probably my favorite parts! Use the daily project notebook for getting started and focused on something as simple as saving your shopping list or receipts, drawing a cloud, or writing something positive on the sidewalk with chalk. Read about the importance of sleep in creativity, then decorate your sleeping space with tear-out inspirational images. Pull out the included Polaroid-style photo frames to use in framing your favorite photos, or use them to help you frame a scene before taking a picture.

 

 

Not every single page includes an interaction– there are also essays about and lessons on how to get started on a new project without getting overwhelmed, stepping outside of your comfort zone as a means to unlocking creativity, and learning how to enjoy being alone and doing nothing at all among others.

 

 

There’s no right or wrong way to use Creativity Takes Courage! Make your way straight through or jump around among the dares. Tear out pages to put on the refrigerator or mail some to a friend. Keep it by your bedside to work through when you first wake up or before you go to sleep. Dog-ear it, use it to your advantage, and realize what a gift true creativity can be.

Want to win a copy of Creativity Takes Courage: Dare to Think Differently for yourself or a friend? Keep scrolling for a ton of ways to enter!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This post sponsored by Workman Publishing. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting our carefully chosen partners that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content!

4

Danze by Gerber Introduces the Draper and Vaughn Collections

 

One of the fastest ways to update your kitchen or bath is by swapping out the faucet and accompanying hardware to make your it feel more like your own. I did just that with all of the sinks in my first home and I’m looking to do it again in my current space. Danze by Gerber has two new kitchen and bath faucet collections – Vaughn and Draper – that look to be the perfect match for my modern-meets-118 year old house aesthetic.

 

 

The Draper collection is an updated classic with vintage detailing and soft industrial influences, the curved lines paired with geometric detailing give each piece a refined traditional elegance that would look right in just about any home. Choose from chrome and stainless steel finishes for kitchen fixtures and chrome and brushed nickel for bathroom fixtures.

 

 

 

If you’re looking for a more dynamic, streamlined design then the Vaughn collection is for you. These kitchen and bath faucets feature a beautiful transitional style and sophisticated look that would be a perfect match for a more modern or minimal space. Choose from chrome, stainless steel, and satin black for kitchen fixtures and chrome, stainless steel, satin black, and brushed nickel for bathroom fixtures.

The Draper and Vaughn collections both boast pulldown kitchen faucets with DockForce magnetic docking technology, a SnapBack retraction system, dual function sprayhead, drip-free ceramic disc valve, and a water efficient flow rate.

 

 

No matter which style you favor, both come equipped with an arsenal of features from Danze by Gerber that focus on design, function, quality, and experience.

We know that stylish reliability is born from the balance of form and function. We know that when we polish the outside, the inside gleams too. And we know that the result of our work isn’t just a faucet—it’s our pride. Because inside every one of our designs is not only Gerber quality, but our relentless dedication to bringing even more beauty to the world.

This post sponsored by Danze by Gerber. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting our carefully chosen partners that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content!

0