Welcome!

Inspired by several design blogs (most notably Belgian Pearls and Cote de Texas), I've decided to start writing about some of my favorite things, including interior design, fashion design, art, and music.

At the moment, I'm enthralled with Belgian design. Its hallmarks include fine linen, especially white, and weathered grey wood, similar to driftwood. Hence the inspiration for the title of my blog.

But there's more to it than that. Linen is carefully crafted, made of the finest material. It is soft, yet durable. And it can be pricey. Driftwood is also crafted, but by nature. Finding it is haphazard. And free. I like the juxtaposition of those two concepts. They embody my approach to interior design and even assembling outfits - combining seemingly disparate elements in which texture rather than color is the focus. I also mix pricey pieces with less expensive finds.

For example, I just noticed that HomeGoods is carrying linen dish towels. At $2.99 a pair, they are a bargain. I've seen them with beige, cocoa, red, black, yellow, or green stripes. You can use them in the kitchen. Or make trendy 16" pillow covers.

Cut one in half. Position the two halves so they overlap about 3 inches. Place face down on the right side of the uncut towel. Sew a 16" square around the outside edge. Turn inside out and voila!

If you're feeling particularly clever, you can sew a zipper closure instead.
 

Instant chic!

Stay tuned for future tips, finds, and observations.