Happiness Is... my Elle Decor newsletter in my inbox

Elle Decor has one of the best e-newsletters around... and lord knows, I get plenty in my inbox.  They just seem to pick the most lucious, enticing photographs and stories highlighting chic decor around the world, design and redesign tips, favorite new decorative accessories, even home and garden ideas.  For the creative spirit, it is pure happiness to open it up each week.

This week's bliss? Dennis Basso's Hamptons escape.  Can't you just see yourself entertaining in this fabulous outdoor living space?  I would not only entertain endlessly, but waste away many hours poolside as well.  How about you?

Photographs by Eric Piasecki

Emily Giffin at Home

Imagine my delight to find my FAVORITE author Emily Giffin showcased in her home by the fabulous Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles!  I have adored EG from the beginning with her first novel, Something Borrowed (now being filmed for release next summer!!) and to hear her thoughts about life in the ATL and see glimpses into her home is beyond bliss for this book/decorating junkie.

Her "reading nook"... I love the simple lines of the white chair with the graphic pillow and throw.

Simply elegant... dinnerware by Match, the "Convivio" collection.

My bliss :)

"I view my home as a sanctuary filled with memories-- and decorating as the ultimate form of self-expression."  ~ Emily Giffin to Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles.

How true!  Make sure you pick up her latest book, Heart of the Matter.

Photos by Erica George Dines for Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles

Valli's Bella Pied-a-Terre

I can't resist all things Italian...the scenery, the architecture, the fashion, the art, the history.  Elle Decor showcases a fabulous Rome apartment belonging to the designer Giambattista Valli and I am in heaven.  Valli put his creative vision to work in reworking his new place, knocking out walls to open and simplify the space, but keeping the original wood beam ceilings.  The juxtaposition is gorgeous.  His eclectic collection of furnishings was assembled from years of travel-- to China, Indonesia, India and, of course, the US.  Here's some of my favorite views, but be sure to check out the entire collection over at elledecor.com.

Love the Japanese touches paired with Italian marble.

Guest room really showcases the original wood beam ceilings... the bedspread is Turkish.

Love Andy Warhol contrasted with the African and Indonesion stools and drum collection.

And this minimalist fireplace with the Texas horn chair!

The master headboard is 19th century Indonesion doors!

All photos by Henry Bourne for Elle Decor.

Candace Bushnell in Elle Decor...just for fun!

Ok, Friends, you MUST check out these divine digs!  The light, the mirrors, the cool and serene decor.  Ahhhhh...not to mention the fact that she's a talented writer.  Enjoy!
At Home with Candace Bushnell Photo - Home Decorating Photos-Page 11