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About 15 years into our design career together, Steve and I laid each of our favorite design elements on a table. On my side: gold gilt, light linens, and florals. On Steve’s side: plaster, leather, and wooden pieces. The purpose of this experiment was to see if we could figure out a signature style that worked for each of us, and the style that emerged from that meeting of minds became Patina Style. The first home we ever designed with that style in mind was our beach house in Oxnard, CA. We purchased the home as a beach getaway in 2006. We had begun to crave a slower life, further from the city, but were not ready to make the large leap to country living. While we loved the location of the home, the design of the home was not exactly what we had dreamed of. When we first walked in, I remember Steve and I joking that it felt like it was straight out of the Brady Bunch. It had a lava rock fireplace, diagonal siding, and dark wood accents. While it had its design faults, it had incredible natural light and a stunning view of the water out of the floor to ceiling windows in the living room. The main space was very open, which would allow our family to feel connected. We knew with a little TLC it could be the oceanside home of our dreams. We began by considering the feeling we wanted the home to convey (the first thing we do at the start of all our design projects). Since it was going to be an oasis outside of the city, we landed on relaxation, and allowed it to inform our palette. While the lava rock fireplace was definitely a strong look, it wasn’t our look. Inspired by old stone fireplaces in the Cotwolds, we decided to apply a white grout all over the rock to tone it down and create a brighter, cleaner look. We replaced the diagonal siding with our favorite Diamond Plaster Veneer, and painted over the dark wood with Farrow & Ball Pavillion Grey to accentuate the beautiful natural light coming from the floor to ceiling windows in the main space. We decorated the walls with Steve’s ocean-scapes to tie the home in with the natural beauty beyond it, and to further that sense of tranquility. Our minimal use of color throughout the main space really made the paintings pop. Throughout the home we worked to balance masculine & feminine design elements. We paired light linen furniture & Swedish antiques... with antique wooden forms, leather books & furniture. In the master bedroom, we leaned into the feminine, opting for light fabrics, muted colors, florals, & gold gilt. We removed the existing closet and replaced it with an exquisite antique wardrobe that we filled with our clothes and decorated with some of our favorite finds. With the closet gone, we were able to expand the master bathroom. In the bathroom, to the horror of our antique dealer, we cut holes into an antique cabinet and turned it into a sink. We also added an all glass shower to maintain the new larger look of the bathroom. Outside the home, we continued our unorthodox experiments by graveling the back deck and planting a Melaleuca trees in the middle to create a serene Mediterranean vibe. We transformed the front entrance into our version of a potted English garden. Hidden from the street by a laurel hedge, this courtyard immediately made us feel more tranquil every time we entered. We opted for low maintenance plants like boxwoods and succulents as we would only be visiting the home on the weekends. In the end, it was the perfect representation of our new Patina Style, and the ideal weekend getaway for our family of 5. If you want to learn more about the ideas behind our design philosophy, you can check out the book this house inspired us to write, Patina Style. We hope you find it helpful in your journey to design a life you love. xx Brooke

As an interior designer and author, I've learned that creating a calm and serene environment is essential for managing stress and finding balance in everyday life. In this blog post, I'll share some of my top recommendations from Patina Home & Garden that can help you overcome stress and create a serene oasis in your home and garden. SOFT AND NEUTRAL HOME DECOR I believe that our surroundings can greatly impact our mood and well-being. That's why I make it a priority to create a calm environment in my home and workspace. I surround myself with soft, neutral colors, natural materials, and meaningful objects that bring me joy. I also make sure to keep my space tidy and clutter-free, as a cluttered environment can add to feelings of stress and overwhelm. MINDFUL APPAREL What we wear can also impact our mood and well-being. Patina Home & Garden offers a selection of mindful apparel that combines comfort and style. Think loose-fitting linen dresses, flowy tunics, and soft loungewear made from sustainable materials. These pieces not only look good, but they also feel good on your skin and allow for ease of movement, helping you stay comfortable and relaxed throughout the day. GARDEN ESSENTIALS FOR OUTDOOR RETREATS Spending time in nature is a proven way to reduce stress and increase well-being. I make sure to set aside time for activities that nourish my soul, such as gardening, tending to our farm animals, or strolling through the forests of Patina Meadow in search of mushrooms. We’ve been building up our inventory of garden essentials that can help you create an outdoor retreat in your own backyard. From durable garden tools handmade with steel, wood, and copper to organic seeds and seedlings, you can feel empowered to design an oasis in your yard that is as peaceful as it is natural and non-toxic. TIMELESS AND MEANINGFUL OBJECTS Incorporating meaningful objects such as vintage-inspired clocks, meaningful wall art, and unique decor pieces into your home can bring joy and serenity to your space. I am passionate about sourcing handmade goods with natural materials that can infuse your home with personal touches. I believe these objects can remind you to stay present, practice mindfulness, and cultivate gratitude in your daily life. SELF-CARE PRODUCTS FOR NOURISHING YOUR MIND AND BODY Self-care is an important aspect of managing stress and finding balance. I like to use natural products with essential oils in my skincare routine to nourish my body and mind. Throughout the years, I have found exceptional skincare companies and even formulated my own facial mist and oil with one. Creating a serene environment is essential for overcoming stress and finding balance in everyday life. The Patina Home & Garden website offers a variety of home decor, apparel, and garden essentials that can help you create calm spaces in your home and garden. Remember, investing in your home and garden can be an investment in your mental and emotional well-being too. xx Brooke

Steve and I have been designing homes together for over 30 years. Throughout those decades, while many things have changed, one thing remains the same: our love for helping people create homes that allow them to live their dream lives. Recently, we’ve been reminiscing and looking back at projects that we’ve done over the years. Today, I thought I would share one of our favorites with you in the hope that it will inspire you to create spaces that enrich your life; ones that bring you joy, rather than stress. THE BEFORE This client approached us in 2016. She lived in a charming bungalow in Santa Monica, and while she loved the size and location of her home, it didn’t feel like her. She liked a more modern aesthetic, but felt like the home felt outdated. She was a chef who loved to entertain, but felt like her home didn’t represent those qualities. When we did our first visit, we immediately noticed a few things. While it was located in California, a state renowned for its sunny days, the rooms throughout the home felt dark. They were also all painted a different color, which created a sense of disconnection. She had a beautiful yard, but it felt like it could be elevated to create a more welcoming environment for herself and her guests. The trees were a bit overgrown, shading out not only her outdoor spaces, but also the indoor ones. As you would expect for a chef, she had a wonderful kitchen, but it didn’t reflect her bright personality and welcoming aurora. She not only wanted a place to cook, she wanted a place where she could invite her guests to sit down and have a glass of wine while she whipped up their meal. After did our initial walk through, we hit the ground running, and after some time planning and picking materials and pieces, we were ready to begin our work with Jones Builder Group to give our client her dream home. THE AFTER The first thing we did was apply Diamond Veneer Plaster Finish to replace the paint. That immediately brightened up the home and made it feel larger. We also replaced the dark wood floors with a lighter oak from Exquisite Surfaces to further enhance the beautiful natural light. If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know that one of our biggest inspirations in design is the nature around our projects. As Santa Monica is a beachside city, we leaned into using soft sandy neutrals and muted blues & greens, to not only connect it with the nearby ocean, but to also create a sense of serenity. We also love to use Swedish antiques in our projects, as their proportions and colors are stunning. If you are interested in adding some antique furniture to your home, we have a collection available on our site! In the kitchen, we added a beautiful navy patterned tile from Walker Zanger behind the stove to create a focal point of interest. We replaced her island with a smaller stainless steel one with a marble top for a nice mix of modern and industrial. The smaller stature created more room for her to move around freely, and more space for guests. We also replaced her overhead cabinetry with floating marble shelves to create a more modern sense of space. When we saw how wonderful her outdoor area was, we knew we wanted to make it feel more connected to the rest of the home, so that her parties could overflow to her garden and make her home feel larger. While we reused some of her outdoor furniture, we added a few of our favorite pieces from Janus Aet Cie. We added glass & steel doors from Riveria Bronze that looked out to her side porch, where we trimmed the trees to let more light in. We used scaffolding boards outside on the walls & floors to add a rustic touch and to bring some of the luminescence we created inside outdoors. By the end, it felt like a brand new house, one that reflected the wonderful people who called it home. If you would like to see more of our designs, you can check out our book, Patina Homes. It is filled with an array of projects, from a modern home in the desert to a traditional home in Maine, that we hope can inspire you to design a home, and a life, you love. xx Brooke

There are not many moments during our day when we are truly pampering ourselves. If you are like me, you run around from task to task, feeling like you barely have time to breathe, let alone care for yourself. If you have been following me for a little while, you know Daron Hope, the founder of my favorite skincare brand, Earthtonics Skincare (you can shop my favorite products here!) We first met when I moved to Ojai and I started going to her facial studio. While she treated my skin with her potent plant potions, we would chat about everything from skincare to our yearning to live lives slower, taking advantage of extra moments to show ourselves love. She has always inspired me to pay close attention to the ingredients in my facial care products and to make a ritual out of my skincare routine so I could have some time to rejuvenate myself every morning & evening. STEP ONE: CARDAMOM CREAM CLEANER. The first thing I do when I hop in the shower in the morning is apply my Cardamom Cream Cleanser. I like to leave it on like a mask while I shower so that the tropical fruit enzymes, from fruits like pineapple & papaya, can work their magic! STEP TWO: HONEY BAMBOO FACIAL SCRUB Twice a week, I exfoliate with the Honey & Bamboo Facial Scrub. The bamboo spheres gently scrub away dead skin while the prebiotic rich herb-infused honey supports the skin’s microbiome. The result is a smooth, glowing complexion. What could be better?! STEP THREE: PATINA MEADOW FACIAL MIST After I finish cleansing or exfoliating, I spray my Patina Meadow Facial Mist. Made with lavender & rose hydrosol from Patina Farm, our mist soothes my skin while calming my mind. STEP FOUR: PATINA MEADOW FACIAL OIL While I love all these products, the Patina Meadow Facial Oil is my holy grail. We formulated it with Rosehip & Raspberry Seed to boost skin with high levels of antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamins A + E. It also smells divine! THE FINAL STEP: THE BOO NON-TOXIC DEODARANT Before I head out the door to start my day, I apply The Boo. This is the best natural deodorant I have ever tried...seriously. Instead of using harmful chemicals to keep odor at bay, The Boo utilizes all natural ingredients, like arrowroot, baking soda, and essential oils, to keep you smelling fresh all day I hope this blog post inspired you to take some time out of your day, even if its just a few moments, to intentionally care for yourself. You deserve it! xx Brooke

My husband, Steve, and I are lifelong creatives. So when we first got married, we struggled to allow space for each of our design styles to coexist within our home. Over the years, we’ve learned how to incorporate each other’s personalities and preferences into our interior design. It has worked out so well that we developed a unique design style that has captured the eyes and hearts of clients and followers who want their homes to look like ours too. WHERE PATINA STYLE CAME FROM Patina Style is all about the allure of the imperfect, the worn, and the weathered. It's about embracing the beauty of nature and history, and allowing these elements to tell a story in your home. This style is inspired by the rustic elegance of old-world Europe, where every piece of furniture and decor was made with care and craftsmanship, and where imperfections were celebrated as a mark of authenticity. FOCUS ON QUALITY OVER QUANTITY Rather than filling your home with trendy or mass-produced pieces, invest in items that are made to last and that have a sense of history and character. This could mean incorporating vintage or antique furniture, or choosing new pieces that are crafted from natural materials like wood, stone, and linen. BLEND TEXTURE AND MATERIALS By layering different textures and materials, you can create a rich, tactile experience that is both cozy and inviting. Consider adding soft, chunky throws, woven baskets, and weathered wooden accents to your decor to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. EMBRACE MUTED, EARTHY TONES Rather than bright, bold colors, this aesthetic favors soft, natural hues like gray, beige, and ivory. These colors create a sense of calm and serenity, and they allow the beauty of the materials and textures to shine through. CREATE A SENSE OF HISTORY AND STORY This can be achieved through the use of vintage or antique pieces, or by incorporating items that have personal meaning or sentimental value. By creating a space that feels lived-in and loved, you can infuse your home with a sense of warmth and charm that will make it a joy to be in. GETTING STARTED WITH PATINA STYLE If you would like to delve deeper into our design philosophy, you can check out our books, Patina Style, Patina Farm, and Patina Homes. If you have any questions about how to incorporate Patina Style into your home, be sure to leave them below! I would love to help you design a life you love. xx Brooke

As I have been designing spaces here at Patina Meadow, I have realized that I have been continuously breaking an interior design rule, not only here, but throughout my career. When it comes to interior design, it's the details that truly make a space come alive. One often overlooked detail that can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic is hardware finishes. Traditionally, there’s a notion that these finishes must match throughout a home to maintain a sense of uniformity. However, I see this as a rule meant to be broken. In my designs, I embrace mixing hardware finishes, as I believe it can actually add more character and depth to a space. Today, I wanted to delve into the art of mixing hardware finishes, specifically my favorites; brass, nickel, and pewter, and explore how this approach can transform your home into a curated collection of unique elements. BREAKING THE MOLD - EMBRACING DIVERSITY IN HARDWARE FINISHES Gone are the days of strictly adhering to a single hardware finish for every room in your home. Mixing finishes such as brass, nickel, and pewter not only breaks the mold but also elevates your design to a new level of sophistication. Each finish has its own distinct charm, and by combining them, you create a visually appealing tapestry that draws the eye and sparks conversation. CREATING DEPTH AND VISUAL INTEREST In this kitchen, I used pewter for most of the lighting, and brass for the faucets and cabinet knobs. The contrast between the two finishes not only adds depth to the design but also creates a sense of visual interest that engages anyone who steps into the space. This blend of finishes encourages the eye to explore the room, highlighting each unique element and creating a more dynamic experience. CRAFTING A CURATED COLLECTION One of the most intriguing aspects of mixing hardware finishes is that it mimics the way we collect and curate items over time. Just as a well-curated collection of antiques or art pieces reflects the personality of the collector, a home adorned with various hardware finishes tells a story of careful consideration and an appreciation for diversity. It's as if each piece has its own tale to share, contributing to the overall narrative of your home. HARMONIZING THE MIX While the idea of mixing hardware finishes might sound exciting, it's essential to approach it with a sense of balance and harmony. To achieve this, consider the following tips: So go ahead, break free from the constraints of uniformity and let your imagination run wild! For more insights into my design philosophy, you can check out our Patina Design Bundle, featuring our 4 books, Patina Style, Patina Farm, Patina Living, & Patina Homes! And, of course, if you have any questions about mixing hardware finishes, leave them in the comments below. xx Brooke

One of my favorite parts about gardening is how it connects us with the rhythms of nature. As the vibrant days of summer, and the bright blooms that come with it, begin to fade, fall and its heartier plants are getting ready for their time in our gardens. While it is still quite hot here in Leiper's Fork, Leila has already started preparing the Bloomerie for the upcoming season, transitioning summer crops to their autumn counterparts. While spring & summer get most of the attention, fall is one of our favorite seasons to work in the garden. If you've never planted during this time of year, here are our tips for starting an autumn garden. CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLANTS & TOOLS Fall gardens offer a unique opportunity to grow a variety of vegetables that thrive in the cooler temperatures. We love to grow a variety of annuals like leafy greens, root vegetables, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, and herbs like parsley, cilantro, and chives. Be sure to check for your first average frost date so you can see how long your plants will have to mature before temperatures drop. When it comes to planting perennials, one of the best ways to figure out what you can plant is to look at your hardiness zone. These zones are determined upon your average lowest temperature, and allow you to discern what plants can survive your upcoming winter weather. Another important thing to consider when starting your garden is the tools you will be working with. We always recommend starting with a trowel for planting, a cultivator for breaking up compaction, and a weeder for, well, weeding! If you are looking for a new set of tools, we have some brand new copper tools available that are beautiful and beneficial. Copper is a wonderful material to include in your tool belt as it doesn't rust, deters snails and slugs, enriches your soil with trace elements, & more! PREPARING & PLANTING YOUR GARDEN BEDS Proper bed preparation is essential for a successful fall garden. Remove any spent summer crops and weeds to provide a clean slate for your fall vegetables. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients for your plants. After your beds have been prepped, you can begin to plant your seeds or seedlings! When choosing where to plant what, consider what was planted in that bed prior seasons. Each family of crop (brassica, legume, etc.) take up different nutrients from the soil, and attract different diseases, so it is beneficial to rotate out families to keep your plants and soil healthy. For example, Leila is replacing our cucumbers with beans & a cover crop, as beans are "lighter feeders" (i.e they uptake less nutrients from the soil) and they replenish nitrogen. Another tip when planting is you can almost always plant your plants a few inches closer than the spacing suggested on the back of packet, so you can have a more abundant harvest! After planting, apply mulch or deseeded straw around your plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Covering your soil also helps prevent soil splashing back at your plants while you are watering or during heavy rains, which helps reduce disease pressure. COVER CROPPING FOR SOIL HEALTH If you want a lower maintenance fall garden, you can try cover cropping to help you prep for next year’s spring garden! Cover cropping is an excellent practice for maintaining soil health during the fall and winter months. We love to plant a mixture of crops for cover, as different plants have different benefits. Legumes help fix nitrogen, mustard greens help manage soil borne pests, and cereal grains suppress weed growth Planting a fall garden is a delightful way to extend your gardening season and enjoy a fresh harvest well into the cooler months. So, gather your seeds, prepare your soil, and let's watch your fall garden flourish. I would love to hear your plans for your garden this season in the comments below. Happy planting! Xx Brooke

In the world of design, inspiration often flows from the most unexpected sources. For me, one of the most abundant springs of creative energy lies in the embrace of nature itself. As I wander through the diverse landscapes of the great outdoors, I am continually reminded of the profound connection between the natural world and the art of design. Today, I invite you to accompany me on a journey through nature's splendor, exploring how its textures, hues, and tranquility shape my patina design philosophy. THE SYMPHONY OF NATURE Nature's canvas is vast and dynamic, an ever-evolving masterpiece painted by the forces of the earth. The dance of sunlight on rippling waters, the gentle touch of wind through wild grasses, and the myriad textures woven into the landscapes all contribute to a tapestry of unparalleled beauty. These facets of nature serve as an unending source of inspiration as I weave their essence into the fabric of interior design. As I explore mountains, meadows, oceans, and deserts, I'm reminded of the importance of balance and harmony. The way nature seamlessly interlaces elements to create ecosystems teaches me the value of creating harmonious and balanced spaces. Each component within these environments has a role to play, just as each piece of furniture and decor item has a purpose within a well-conceived interior. DESIGNING WITH THE COLORS OF NATURE The colors of nature are an ever-present muse for my design journey. From the vibrant blooms of spring to the rich earth tones of autumn, I draw inspiration from the palette of nature when selecting fabrics, paints, and accents. Integrating these organic colors helps forge a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a seamless transition between the two realms. Texture, too, is a vital lesson I glean from nature's diverse textures. The contrast between the smoothness of river stones and the roughness of tree bark, or the delicate petals of a flower against the strength of a boulder, serves as a reminder to incorporate various textures into interiors. SEASONAL SERENITY Each season in nature unfolds a unique narrative, and I endeavor to capture its essence in my design work. The warmth and coziness of fall inspire layering and the use of earthy tones, echoing the transformation of leaves into an opulent tapestry. A summer by the sea inspires me to bring the shades of blue that grace the sky and the ocean into a home, allowing each shade to be amplified by the other. Nature's teachings extend to the art of patience and the beauty of evolution. Watching a seed grow into a mighty tree mirrors the gradual development of an interior design. Just as nature's landscapes mature over time, so do thoughtfully designed living spaces. Each thoughtfully chosen piece and carefully arranged corner align and mature over the years, culminating in an environment that mirrors the rhythms of life. As I immerse myself in the wonder of the outdoors, I am deeply encouraged to craft spaces that resonate with the serenity and beauty of the natural world. I encourage you, too, to embrace the lessons nature offers, translating its elegance into spaces that embody the harmony of the wild. Let me know how nature inspires you in the comments! If you would like to see more images of our nature-inspired designs, check out our books, Patina Style & Patina Homes 💚 xx Brooke

When we first moved to Patina Meadow, we knew we didn’t want to just be passive observers of the ecosystem that existed on our land. We wanted to become active participants in it, creating a symbiotic relationship with the plants, animals, and insects that called our property home before we even knew it existed. One of the ways we engage with the natural world around us is through our bee hives, with the help of Claire and Steven at Greenwood Honey Company. Nestled near the front of our property, stands seven hives, modeled after our log cabin, buzzing with life. We originally had five hives, but we were able to “catch” 2 additional swarms on our property, who have now been moved to their permanent home in our little village. After allowing our hives to get settled in their new spot at the forefront of our land, it’s time to harvest our second batch of Patina Meadow Honey. Honey is a fascinating food. It is the only food that has every single substance to sustain life, it is rich in antioxidants, and it never goes bad! When raised in man made hives, bees usually produce more honey than they can use, so we are able to carefully harvest this abundant liquid gold to share with you. THE HARVESTING PROCESS Harvesting honey is an art that requires patience, skill, and utmost care for the bees. At Patina Meadow, Steven, Claire, Leila and I approach this process with the utmost respect for these essential pollinators and their hard work. TIMING AND PREPARATION Timing is key to a successful honey harvest. Steven and Claire carefully monitor the hives throughout the year, observing the bees' behavior and tracking the nectar flow. When the hives are full of capped honeycombs, indicating that the honey is ready, we know it's time to proceed. Before opening the hives, Claire and Steven use a smoker to gently calm the bees. The smoke imitates a natural response, making the bees believe that there might be a fire nearby. Consequently, they gorge themselves on honey in preparation to potentially abandon their hive. As a result, the bees become less defensive, allowing the beekeepers to work more safely. FRAME REMOVAL Each hive contains wooden frames filled with hexagonal honeycombs, a shape that allows them to most efficiently store the maximum amount of honey with the least amount of wax. We carefully remove these frames from the hives. It is essential to handle the frames with care, as beeswax and honey are not only the bees' hard work but also a precious resource for the entire colony. HONEY EXTRACTION Once the frames are removed, Claire and Steven transport the frames back to their studio. Here, they remove the delicate layer of wax that caps the frame. After removing the beeswax caps from all the cells, the honey can be extracted using a centrifuge extractor – a device that spins the frames to separate the honey from the combs. The centrifugal force extracts the honey, leaving the combs intact for the bees to reuse. STRAINING AND BOTTLING After extraction, the honey is strained to remove any remaining wax or debris. The pure, golden liquid is then ready for bottling in our custom honey jars. Unlike most of the honey you will find at your local grocery store, our honey is left raw and unfiltered, preserving all its natural flavors and health benefits. AVAILABLE NOW As part of our commitment to supporting the bees and promoting sustainable practices, we are thrilled to offer Patina Meadow's honey for sale. By choosing our honey, you not only savor its rich taste but also contribute to the conservation of these vital pollinators. At Patina Meadow, we are proud custodians of these captivating creatures, and our beekeeping practices embody a deep respect for nature's interconnectedness. With seven hives, including those wild-caught on our farm, we celebrate the extraordinary lives of bees and their vital role in our ecosystem. As we continue to nurture our buzzing friends, we invite you to join us in cherishing the sweet nectar they produce – a testament to the harmony that exists within the world of bees at Patina Meadow. xx Brooke

If you have been following our work for any length of time, you've probably noticed that we love incorporating natural materials into our designs. We find joy in bringing the beauty of nature indoors, creating environments that exude warmth, authenticity, and a timeless appeal. Materials like wood, stone, and linen are three elements that we turn to again and again to create spaces that exude these principals. EMBRACING THE WARMTH OF WOOD When it comes to designing spaces, few materials can rival the warmth and character of wood. From rustic to refined, wood has an innate ability to elevate any room it graces. Whether it's the natural patina of reclaimed oak flooring or the rich grain patterns of a handcrafted walnut table, each piece of wood has a story to tell. I love incorporating wooden elements into my designs, as they bring a sense of grounding and tranquility to the space. Wooden furniture and accents can effortlessly complement various design styles, from coastal to farmhouse and everything in between. CELEBRATING THE STRENGTH OF STONE Another treasured natural material in my design repertoire is stone. . From marble countertops that exude sophistication in a kitchen to the earthy charm of a stone fireplace in a cozy living room, I find endless possibilities for incorporating this exquisite material. In my design projects, I like to mix and match different types of stone, embracing the unique textures and colors they offer. Whether it's the cool serenity of Carrara marble or the warm tones of limestone, stone infuses a sense of luxury and grandeur into any room. I'm particularly drawn to using stone in bathrooms, where it can transform a space into a tranquil spa-like retreat, inviting relaxation and rejuvenation. THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF LINEN Now, let's talk about one of my absolute favorites – linen (you are on the Velvet & Linen blog after all!). This remarkable fabric has been cherished for centuries, and it's no wonder why. Linen not only offers a refined and enduring elegance but also practicality and comfort. In my designs, I love using linen curtains as their sheer quality still allows light to softly illuminate a space. Linen upholstery on sofas and chairs adds a touch of casual sophistication, and linen bedding invites a sense of calm and serenity in bedrooms without feeling too precious. Linen can be laundered and gets softer with every wash, making it the perfect addition to a home full of life. BLENDING THE TRIO FOR A HARMONIOUS SPACE The beauty of working with wood, stone, and linen lies in their compatibility and ability to coexist seamlessly. These natural materials harmonize effortlessly, creating a space that feels organic and authentic. I often find myself combining a rough-hewn wooden coffee table with a stone fireplace surround and soft linen chairs, resulting in a space that feels inviting and lived-in yet elegant. Designing with wood, stone, and linen is my ode to the wonders of nature. I invite you to explore these materials in your own spaces and experience the transformative power they bring to a home. Until next time, happy designing! xx Brooke

Over the past few years, I have become enthralled with the healing powers of plants. I’ve always loved brewing a cup of chamomile tea to help soothe me to sleep or pampering my skin with Earthtonics botanical line of skincare, but recently I have been wanting to add more medicinal herbs into my wellness routine. When we were deciding what to plant in our new greenhouses, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to curate our own living apothecary. Growing medicinal herbs is an act of reverence, a way to honor the ancient wisdom of natural remedies and to nurture our connection with the earth. At Patina Meadow, we are discovering that tending to these healing plants not only nourishes our bodies but also enriches our souls. It is a joyous journey of discovery, and we are eager to share its wonders with you. LEMON BALM (MELISSA OFFICINALIS) Step inside our greenhouse, and be greeted by the delicate, citrusy aroma of Lemon Balm. This herb has been cherished for centuries, celebrated for its ability to calm the mind and soothe the spirit. In addition to its relaxing nature, its strong aroma helps deter bugs when rubbed on the skin. YARROW (ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM) Amidst the verdant beauty of our greenhouse, you will find the resilient and graceful Yarrow. This ethereal herb has long been revered for its healing properties. Its Latin name, Achillea millefolium, was bestowed in honor of the Greek god Achilles, who, according to myth, used this herb as on his wounds on the battlefield. Its blooms, reminiscent of tiny stars, hold the power to soothe digestive woes, promote healthy circulation, calm the nervous system, and more! It is also used in one of the biodynamic compost preparations, aiding in plants ability to attract trace elements for optimum health. RUSSIAN SAGE (PEROVSKIA ATRIPLICIFOLIA) As our eyes wander across the medley of colors, the ethereal lavender hues of Russian Sage captivate our attention. This majestic herb not only adds beauty to our sanctuary but also harbors potent medicinal qualities like calming inflammation, supporting respiratory health, subduing parasites, relieving pain, and fighting infections. ANISE HYSSOP (AGASTACHE FOENICULUM) In the corners of our greenhouse, the fragrance of Anise Hyssop lingers in the air. With its aromatic leaves and purple flowers, this herb beckons us to explore its medicinal prowess. A traditional medicine used by Native Americans, Anise Hyssop aids digestion, soothes discomfort, offers a gentle boost to the immune system, and can relieve congestion by acting as an expectorant. When used topically, it is said to help treat burns and wounds. Some Native American groups also burned the herb in an incense to lift their mood! HOLY BASIL (OCIMUM TENIFOLURUM) Known as Tulsi in Ayurvedic medicine, this sacred herb bestows a myriad of benefits. Holy Basil nourishes the spirit, balances the mind, and strengthens the body's natural resilience. In a world bustling with activity, this herb bestows a calming energy. It also has a high nutritional value, containing vitamin A & C, calcium, zinc, iron, and chlorophyll. TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA) Renowned for its remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties due to its active ingredient, curcumin, this vibrant root has long been cherished for its ability to ease joint discomfort and promote radiant health. It's leaves also possess medicinal qualities, including antioxidant and antibacterial effects. POMEGRANATE (PUNICA GRANATUM) A symbol of abundance and vitality, this tree bears fruits brimming with antioxidants and nutrients. Pomegranates can be used in the treatment and prevention of several kinds of cancer and inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Its beneficial effects don't stop there, it also aids in wound healing! Within the sanctuary of our medicinal herb greenhouse, a world of wellness unfolds. From the calming embrace of Lemon Balm to the sacred essence of Holy Basil, each herb nurtures both body and spirit. I hope this inspired you to cultivate a deeper connection with nature and unlock the transformative potential of medicinal herbs. Whether you have a large garden to fill with yarrow and anise hyssop or a small pot to plant mint, you can have the healing power of plants outside your door at your fingertips. If you would like to hear more about the Bloomerie and Patina Meadow, Leila & I recently sat down with the Ballard Design Podcast to talk about all the things we are planning here at our property in Leiper's Fork. I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! xx Brooke Sources: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/lemon-balm#:~:text=Lemon%20balm%20(Melissa%20officinalis)%2C,%2C%20as%20well%20as%20colic). https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/yarrow-and-its-medicinal-benefits/ https://dsps.lib.uiowa.edu/roots/russian-sage/ https://www.phillyorchards.org/2016/09/15/keep-calm-and-anise-hyssop-agastache-foeniculum/#:~:text=Infused%20in%20tea%2C%20anise%20hyssop,treat%20respiratory%20infections%20and%20bronchitis. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/basil-benefits#Not-your-basic-basil https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/turmeric-benefits https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7830937/#:~:text=However%2C%20several%20studies%20have%20reported,radical%20scavenging%20activity%20%5B21%5D. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4007340/#:~:text=Pomegranate%20can%20be%20used%20in,beneficial%20to%20the%20reproductive%20system.

I’m so excited to share with you the beginning of the design process of the Attic at Patina Meadow— our 600 square foot studio apartment nestled above our garage. Inspired by the timeless charm of a tucked away Cotswolds attic bedroom, our dream is to create a cozy, private haven for our guests to enjoy during their stay with us. To set the tone for the entire attic, I chose the Sutton Vintage Blue Wallpaper, by Caroline Inchyra . Its old world design and faded hues on aged linen will envelop the main space, as it will be applied to both the walls and pitched ceiling between antique wood beams. This wallpaper became the guiding force for our color palette, informing our selections for the complementary drapery fabric (Vintage Check) as well as the stone (Higgins Cottonwood Limestone) and tile (Zia Tile in Absynthe) for the bathroom and kitchen. To add to the warmth and coziness, we included a wood stove fireplace... and a charming bed nook in the Attic. I’ve been waiting quite a while to find the perfect application for the Moroccan Zellige tile from Zia tile. It has a handmade feel due to its irregular surface and varied color. I chose the Absinthe color option, a light blue/green that compliments a similar accent color in the wallpaper and also connects the colors of the space to the sky outside. I’ve chosen two additional Inchyra fabrics to add interest to the space. The Vintage Check in Natural will be used for draperies on the windows, doors, as well as the bed nook. I also selected an aged version of the Plume Stripe in Green for the skirt underneath the sink in the kitchen and pillows on the sofa in the living area. One of my favorite features of the Attic at Patina Meadow is the outdoor porch... which offers our guests an opportunity to enjoy a view of our little animals in their barn and pasture. I look forward to sharing more about the Attic as we get closer to its completion, and hope that you enjoyed seeing a bit of a behind the scenes look at our design process. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask them in the comments below. I would love to chat with you. xx Brooke