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Your home is a reflection of your unique personality, and what better way to showcase your individuality than through curated collections? Whether you're passionate about vintage glassware, books, artwork, or any other cherished items, mastering the art of display can transform your collections into captivating focal points within your home. So today, I wanted to give you some tips and tricks to help you curate and display your collections with style. CURATING A COHESIVE COLLECTION The first step in creating an impressive display is curating a collection that tells a cohesive story. Select items that share a common theme, whether it's a particular era, color palette, or subject matter. For example, if you love collecting vintage books, focus on acquiring pieces from a specific time period or in a particular style. This thematic approach will help create a harmonious and visually pleasing arrangement. FINDING THE PERFECT DISPLAY SPACE Consider the space where you plan to showcase your collection. It could be a dedicated shelf, a wall-mounted display case, or even a prominent tabletop. Assess the size, shape, and lighting of the area to determine the most suitable display option. Ensure that the chosen space provides enough room to arrange your items without overwhelming the surroundings. CREATING A FOCAL POINT Every collection deserves a focal point that draws attention and serves as the centerpiece of the display. Select a standout piece or a visually striking arrangement to anchor your collection. For example, if you're curating a collection of antique cameras, place a rare or particularly beautiful camera in the center, surrounded by complementary pieces. EMPHASIZING VARIETY While curating a cohesive collection is essential, adding variety within that theme adds visual interest and prevents monotony. Incorporate items of different shapes, sizes, and textures to create depth and dimension. For instance, if you're curating a collection of seashells, mix larger specimens with smaller ones, display shells of various colors and patterns, and intersperse them with natural elements like driftwood or coral. BALANCING NEGATIVE SPACE Negative space is as important as the objects themselves when it comes to creating a visually appealing display. Allow for some breathing room between items to avoid overcrowding. This empty space provides visual relief, allows each piece to shine individually, and contributes to an overall sense of balance and harmony. ROTATING AND REFRESHING Collections are dynamic and evolving, so don't hesitate to rotate or refresh your displays periodically. Switch out items, introduce new additions, or create themed displays based on seasons or special occasions. This not only keeps your displays fresh and exciting but also allows you to showcase different aspects of your collection over time. Remember, curating and displaying collections is an art form that allows you to share your stories, interests, and memories with others. Take the time to thoughtfully arrange your items, paying attention to details such as color, texture, and composition. So, go ahead and explore your passions, curate your collections, and let your creativity shine. With the art of display mastered, you'll have the power to transform any space into a gallery-like showcase of your cherished items. Enjoy the process and revel in the joy of creating visually stunning displays that reflect your unique style and personality. If you would like more design tips, you can check out our book, Patina Style! We would love to help you design a life you love. If you have any questions about the art of display, please leave them in the comments! I would also love to hear what you are collecting! xx Brooke

Nestled at the front of Patina Meadow, overlooking the vibrant Bloomerie, stands our gathering barn, the Shed, which is set to become the beating heart of our community. This 3,500 square foot space, with its rustic appeal inspired by the time-honored tobacco barns of Tennessee, the Shed is poised to become a haven for creativity and connection, housing our Potterie and a great Gathering Room. With its weathered, reclaimed barn wood exterior, reminiscent of the material used in the construction of the neighboring cabin, the Shed is a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship that has inspired the property. The entrances to The Shed are accessible through our Bloomerie, instantly immersing you in a world of blooming flowers and lush vegetables. This connection with nature creates a sense of tranquility and harmony, setting the stage for the creative endeavors that will unfold within its walls. One of the focal points of the Shed is the Potterie, a pottery studio that will serve as a hub for artistic exploration and learning. With classes planned to begin next spring, visitors will have the opportunity to delve into the world of pottery, guided by teachers who will nurture their creativity and help them discover the joy of working with clay. The heart of the Shed lies in the Gathering Room, a spacious area on the right side of the barn that invites visitors to come together as a community. This multipurpose space will be adorned with a fully equipped kitchen, encouraging the shared experience of preparing meals and breaking bread. The inclusion of a pool table, dart board, and whiskey bar adds a touch of leisure and entertainment, fostering a convivial atmosphere where guests can unwind, engage in friendly competition, and forge lasting connections. Ample seating arrangements, carefully curated to encourage conversation and interaction, will provide the perfect setting for visitors to share stories, exchange ideas, and form meaningful connections. Whether it's a gathering of friends, a workshop, or a celebration, the Gathering Room will serve as a versatile backdrop for countless memorable moments. But the Shed offers more than just communal spaces. It also houses two distinct living areas. The Apartment, located upstairs, serves as comfortable accommodations for visitors and visiting teachers, ensuring a restful stay immersed in the serenity of Patina Meadow. With its cozy ambiance and rustic charm, the Apartment offers a peaceful retreat after a day of artistic exploration or a long stroll through the idyllic grounds. Additionally, the Shed boasts The Studio, an art space for Steve and a studio apartment. This versatile studio will serve as a sanctuary where Steve can unleash his creativity and bring his imaginative visions to life. Lastly, the Shed provides a work and storage room for Dan, the diligent property manager who ensures that every aspect of Patina Meadow runs smoothly. This functional space allows Dan to tend to the property's needs, making it a sanctuary for creativity and a welcoming retreat for all who visit. As the Shed at Patina Meadow takes shape, it becomes evident that this structure is much more than just a gathering barn. It is a sanctuary where nature and art converge, where creativity and community intertwine, and where unforgettable memories are waiting to be made. Whether you're a pottery enthusiast seeking to explore your artistic side, a visitor in search of respite, or a member of the Patina Meadow family embarking on a new creative journey, the Shed invites you to step inside, immerse yourself in its rustic allure, and find solace, inspiration, and connection amidst its welcoming embrace. xx Brooke

At Patina Meadow, we deeply value the well-being of our animals and strive to provide them with the utmost care and attention. Today, I wanted to address some of the most frequently asked questions about our holistic approach to animal care. From their importance in biodynamic agriculture to our use of mineral feeders, natural insect repellents, and grain-free diets, let's explore how we create a harmonious environment for our beloved creatures. HOW ARE ANIMALS IMPORTANT TO BIODYNAMIC AGRICULTURE? In the realm of biodynamic agriculture, animals hold a vital role in maintaining the farm's ecosystem. Our animals contribute to the natural cycle by enriching the soil through their manure, providing essential nutrients for plant growth and fostering soil fertility. They act as integral members of our farm, co-creating a sustainable and regenerative agricultural system. DO YOU HAVE ANY SUPPLEMENTS AVAILABLE TO YOUR HERD? At Patina Meadow, we recognize the innate wisdom of animals to self-regulate their nutritional needs. To support their overall health and well-being, we provide mineral feeders. These feeders offer a wide range of essential minerals, allowing our animals to intuitively select the nutrients they require. This not only nourishes our animals but also enriches the soil as they distribute these minerals through their manure, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant ecosystem. HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR DONKEYS FROM FLIES AND BITING INSECTS? To keep flies and biting insects at bay, we turn to the natural goodness of products like Badger Balm and Belly Balm by the Farrier's Wife. We apply these balms to our donkeys' legs, creating a protective barrier that deters pests. These products, crafted with care and expertise, offer a safe and effective solution to ensure our donkeys enjoy a peaceful and comfortable environment. WHAT DO YOU FEED YOUR CHICKENS? Our chickens thrive on a carefully curated grain-free diet. We understand that a grain-free approach eliminates potential allergens, reduces the risk of inflammation, and promotes optimal digestion and nutrient absorption. Our chickens' diet consists of mealworms, black oil sunflower seeds, and nutrient-rich kelp, providing them with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for robust health and vitality. By opting for organic and non-GMO ingredients, we prioritize their well-being and contribute to a sustainable food system. HOW DO YOU PROTECT YOUR DOGS FROM TICKS? To protect our dogs from ticks, we use a homemade tick spray recipe shared by Melissa Vines, @alongthemeadow, a local herbalist. The recipe includes 100 ml of catnip-infused witch hazel, along with 40 drops each of cedar-wood, geranium, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils. This natural tick spray acts as a potent deterrent against ticks while avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. Research has shown that catnip is actually more effective than DEET at repelling bugs! Our dogs enjoy the benefits of this homemade solution, keeping them safe and comfortable during their outdoor adventures. At Patina Meadow, we hold a deep commitment to providing our animals with holistic care that respects their natural instincts and promotes their overall well-being. By integrating these practices into our everyday routine, we celebrate the interconnectedness of all living beings and pave the way for a more compassionate and sustainable future. If you have any additional questions about how we care for our animals, please leave them in the comments! XX Brooke

Small kitchens can be a design challenge, but with the right tips and tricks, you can turn them into charming and practical spaces that make a big impact. Inspired by our recent Instagram tour of the cozy kitchen in the cabin at Patina Meadow, we're excited to share some tips to help you create your very own haven in the heart of your home. EMBRACE THE AIRINESS OF OPEN SHELVING Bid farewell to traditional cupboards and welcome the lightness of open shelving. By opting for open shelves in your small kitchen, you instantly create a sense of openness and airiness. Display your favorite dishes, glassware, and decorative items on these shelves to add a personal touch and showcase your unique style. HARMONIZE WITH THOUGHTFUL PAINT CHOICES The right paint color can work wonders in a small kitchen. Choose a hue that harmonizes with the rest of the space to create a sense of unity. Soft, neutral tones or complementary shades can make your small kitchen feel more expansive and visually connected to the adjoining areas. Let the paint color tie everything together and create a cohesive look. CONNECT SPACES WITH SEE-THROUGH SHELVES Break down the visual barriers between your kitchen and adjacent areas by incorporating see-through shelves. These clever additions not only provide additional storage but also create a seamless connection between the different spaces. Use them to display decorative pieces or store items you frequently use, making them both functional and visually appealing. MAXIMIZE SPACE WITH STYLISH BARSTOOLS When it comes to seating in a small kitchen, barstools are your secret weapon. They offer extra seating without taking up valuable floor space. Choose barstools with a design that complements your kitchen's aesthetic. They not only provide a cozy spot for friends and family to gather but also add a touch of style and personality to the space. CONCEAL WITH STYLE WITH PANEL-READY APPLIANCES To maintain a cohesive and uncluttered look, consider panel-ready appliances. These appliances can be seamlessly integrated into your cabinetry by adding custom panels that match the surrounding design. By hiding your appliances, you create a streamlined and cohesive appearance in your small kitchen, allowing the focus to remain on the overall aesthetic. With these insider tips, you can transform your small kitchen into a charming and practical space that reflects your personal style. Embrace open shelving, maximize space with stylish barstools, conceal appliances with custom panels, and choose paint colors that bring it all together. Get ready to create a small kitchen that makes a big impression. I hope you enjoyed our tour and that these tips help get you one step closer to designing your dream kitchen. I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! xx Brooke

This weekend, someone came into the store and asked me a question that I get quite a bit, “How do I incorporate antique pieces into a modern home?” In the world of interior design, there is a captivating allure to blending the old with the new. The juxtaposition of antique pieces in modern interiors adds character, depth, and a sense of history to any space. If you're yearning to infuse your home with timeless elegance, incorporating antiques is a wonderful way to achieve that. UNDERSTANDING YOUR STYLE Before embarking on your antique hunting journey, it's important to identify your personal style. Whether you lean towards minimalist, eclectic, traditional, or contemporary aesthetics, knowing your preferred design language will help you curate a cohesive and harmonious space. Understanding your style will also guide you in selecting antique pieces that resonate with your overall vision. START SMALL If you're new to incorporating antiques, it's wise to begin with small accents and decorative items. This could include vintage artwork, porcelain figurines, or ornate mirrors. These smaller pieces can be strategically placed throughout your modern interior, adding subtle touches of history and creating points of interest. MIX AND MATCH One of the most exciting aspects of combining antiques with modern design is the opportunity to mix and match different eras and styles. Don't be afraid to experiment! Pair a sleek, contemporary sofa with a beautifully aged antique coffee table or place an antique chandelier above a minimalist dining table. The key is to strike a balance and create a harmonious blend where each piece enhances the other. FOCAL POINTS Consider using larger, statement antique pieces as focal points in your interior. A grand antique armoire, a vintage Chesterfield sofa, or an intricately carved wooden headboard can instantly become the centerpiece of a room. By allowing these standout antiques to take center stage, you create a captivating narrative that draws the eye and sparks conversation. EMBRACE PATINA AND IMPERFECTIONS Antique furniture and decor often carry the marks of time, adding a unique charm and authenticity. Embrace the patina, the worn edges, and the imperfections that tell a story. Rather than viewing them as flaws, see them as the beautiful characteristics that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind. CONTEXTUALIZE WITH MODERN ELEMENTS To ensure a harmonious integration of antiques into a modern interior, it's essential to contextualize them with contemporary elements. Pairing antique furniture with clean lines, minimalist accessories, and modern art can create a captivating dialogue between the old and the new. The contrast between the two styles will amplify the beauty of each. Incorporating antiques into modern interiors is an art form that requires a delicate balance of aesthetics and vision. By understanding your style, starting small, mixing and matching, emphasizing focal points, embracing patina, and contextualizing with modern elements, you can create a space that exudes timeless elegance and tells a captivating story. So, embrace the charm of the past, and let your home become a testament to the beauty of blending antiquity with modernity. If you are looking to learn more tips on how to fit antiques into your personal style, you'll love our book Patina Style. If you want to see more images from our projects, check out our book Patina Homes! If you have any questions or comments, I would love to hear them below. Along with interior design, being able to talk with all of you is one of my favorite things. Thank you for being here. xx Brooke

Imagine walking through a lush garden, with the scent of fresh herbs and flowers wafting through the air. The soil beneath your feet contains a world within itself, teeming with billions of microbes all working to create a healthy ecosystem. Ahead of you, you see a pasture with roaming animals, peacefully mowing the grass or laying beneath the shade of arching trees. Chickens scratch at the soil and feast on insects, cows graze and leave the land more fertile than they found it, and donkeys stand watch protecting their herd. This is the world of biodynamic farming, where every plant, animal, and element is treated with reverence and respect. When Steve, Leila, and I moved to Patina Farm, we fell in love with the natural world and felt it was our duty to serve as stewards of our land, leaving it better than we found it. After years of living in Ojai, we stumbled across biodynamic agriculture, fell in love with the idea, and began to implement it on our farm, with the help of Andrew Beedy, our biodynamic consultant. Patina Farm before and after biodynamics! Images by Lisa Romerein Founded in 1924 in response to the rise of industrial agriculture and the destruction it unleashed , biodynamic farming is a holistic approach to agriculture that views the farm as a living organism, where everything is interconnected and interdependent. Followers of biodynamic principles believe that the health of the soil is paramount to the health of the plants and animals that depend on it. Rather than relying on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, we focus on building soil fertility through composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation. By avoiding synthetic amendments, we stay in the "realm of the living." These naturally occurring nutrients are more bioavailable, which results in healthier plants and soil. In addition to caring for the soil, we also pay close attention to the rhythms of nature. We use the Stella Natura Biodynamic Planting Calendar, which takes into account the lunar calendar & constellations, to guide our planting and harvesting. Using this method helps create a harmonious balance between the farm and the surrounding ecosystem. One of the most interesting aspects of biodynamic farming is the use of biodynamic preparations. These are special remedies made from natural materials like herbs, minerals, and manure that are used to enhance soil fertility, promote plant growth, and support the health of animals. For example, one of the most well-known biodynamic preparations is called "BD 500," which is made by stuffing cow horns with cow manure & the other biodynamic preparations, and burying them in the ground over the winter. This preparation is then used in the spring to enhance soil fertility and stimulate plant growth. The results have been nothing short of miraculous - our crops are more nutrient-dense and flavorful, and our animals are healthier and happier. We compost all of our food waste and use it to nourish our plants, creating a circle of life that sustains us and the environment. We plant cover crops to enrich the soil and provide habitats for beneficial insects and animals. And we use natural pest control methods, like companion planting and crop rotation, to create a harmonious balance between all the elements of our farm. By embracing biodynamic farming, we've found a deeper connection to the land and to each other. It's a fulfilling way of life that honors the beauty and magic of the natural world. Biodynamics is a complex and beautiful method of growing food, and we are just scraping the surface of this fascinating technique. If you're looking to strengthen your relationship to the natural world and yourself, I encourage you to explore the world of biodynamic farming. It's a journey that will leave you inspired, rejuvenated, and deeply in love with the earth. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask them in the comments! Xx Brooke

As the warmth of spring envelops us and blossoms begin to bloom, there's no better time to embrace the outdoors and indulge in the joy of entertainment. Whether it's a casual brunch or an evening soiree, hosting an outdoor gathering allows you to revel in the beauty of nature while creating cherished memories. Today, I wanted to share some tips for outdoor spring entertaining that will help you create a magical experience for your guests! SETTING AN OUTDOOR TABLE The table is the heart of any gathering, and setting it with care is essential to create an inviting ambiance. Opt for natural and light fabrics like linen for tablecloths and napkins, which exude an effortless elegance. Soft pastel colors are perfect for a springtime table setting, evoking the freshness and vibrancy of the season, or add a pop of delicate beauty with some floral linen placemats or napkins. Mix and match different patterns and textures for an eclectic yet cohesive look. Nature-inspired dinnerware, glassware, or flatware can add a whimsical charm to your outdoor table. INCORPORATING FARM FRESH FOOD One of the highlights of spring is the abundance of farm-fresh foods available. Embrace the season by incorporating locally-sourced ingredients into your outdoor spring entertaining. Visit your local farmers' market, farm stand, or Patina Farm Shop ;) to find the freshest produce, meats, and cheeses to create a delectable feast for your guests. CREATING WILDFLOWER ARRANGEMENTS Nothing says spring like the beauty of wildflowers. Incorporating fresh wildflowers into your outdoor spring entertaining is a wonderful way to add a touch of natural beauty to your gathering. Consider placing them in simple and rustic vases or mason jars for a charming and effortless look. When selecting wildflowers, you can embrace the diversity of colors and shapes that nature has to offer, or stick to one variety in abundance. Don't be afraid to use wildflowers that may be considered "weeds" but possess unique charm, like dandelions or Queen Anne's lace. I also love to incorporate edible flowers into the food I am serving! THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY At the heart of any gathering, whether it's indoors or outdoors, is the sense of community and connection. Emphasize the importance of community in your outdoor spring entertaining by creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Set up cozy seating areas with comfortable cushions and throws, encouraging conversation and camaraderie among your guests. Outdoor spring entertaining is a delightful way to celebrate the season and create cherished memories with loved ones. By setting an inviting outdoor table, incorporating farm-fresh foods, arranging fresh wildflowers, and fostering a sense of community, you can create a magical and memorable experience for your guests. So, embrace the beauty of spring and let the outdoors be your canvas for a truly enchanting gathering. Happy entertaining! Xx Brooke

As the spring season arrives, the anticipation of creating a romantic garden comes alive. My daughter, Leila, and I are gardening enthusiasts. We love spending our days outdoors planting, watering, and just enjoying the beauty of nature. Along the way, we’ve discovered some tips that we'd love to share with you so you can create a truly enchanting spring garden. Creating a garden plan is the first step in bringing your garden dreams to life. Think about the plants that capture your heart and the perfect location for your garden beds. Consider the amount of sunlight and shade your garden receives, plant spacing (you can usually plant your plants a few inches closer than suggested on the seed packets to create more volume in your space), and the quality of your soil. This plan will be your blueprint for creating a garden that's not only visually stunning, but also sustainable and healthy. After creating your plan, you can start to gather supplies. Depending on your space and your goals, you will need different items, but a couple things you will definitely need are soil, compost, seeds, garden tools, and a way to collect your bountiful harvest! You can find organic garden soil and compost at your local garden store, and you can find high-quality organic seeds, garden tools, and totes right here at Patina Home & Garden! Next is Leila’s favorite part, sowing your seeds. It requires a little extra care, but the results are worth it. To start your seeds you will need: seed starting trays (we like to use CowPots, which are made of cow manure rather than plastic seed starting trays), a high-quality organic seed starting mix, a gentle light source (or if the weather is warm enough where you are you can leave your starts outside), and of course seeds! Follow the instructions on the seed packet for the ideal planting depth and moisture requirements. Don't forget to label your trays so you know what is what. Tenderly plant each seed, water them, and envision the beauty it will bring to your garden as it grows. After about 6 weeks, your starts should be ready to head outside to be planted! If you have started them indoors, before you pop them into the ground, let them sit outside for about a week in their pots to acclimate to the elements. Then, you can finally get your hands dirty and start planting! You can prepare your garden beds by cleaning up any debris, removing dead plants, and adding nutrient-rich compost to the soil. Enriching your soil will provide the foundation for your plants to flourish and create a haven of beauty in your garden. As your garden starts to bloom, take the time to appreciate its beauty. Stroll through your garden, marvel at the colors, scents, and textures. Savor the joy of harvesting fresh vegetables or plucking a bouquet of flowers for your loved one. Embrace the romance of nature in full bloom, and let your garden be a reflection of your love for the beauty around you. Creating a romantic spring garden is a labor of love that requires planning, care, and appreciation for nature's beauty. Starting seeds, preparing the soil, and enjoying the process of growth and blossoming will result in a garden that is not only visually captivating but also filled with love and romance. So, grab your Linen Apron, immerse yourself in the magic of spring, and create a garden that will capture your heart and inspire your soul. What are you planting in your spring garden this year? Let me know in the comments! Happy gardening! xx Brooke

As Steve and I walk through the forest at Patina Meadow during these first weeks of spring, I am reminded of the simple yet profound beauty that nature has to offer. The fresh air is invigorating, and the forest comes alive with the sounds of birds chirping, flowers blooming, and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The vibrant colors of the forest in early spring are breathtaking. The redbuds and dogwoods add a pop of color to the landscape, creating a beautiful contrast against the stark gray of the other trees still in the midst of their winter slumber. The blooms seem to stretch their delicate petals up towards the sky, reaching for the sun. As I wander through the forest, I am drawn to the mushrooms growing in the hidden corners. Their caps are a deep shade of brown and add a touch of magic to the forest. I can't help but imagine fairies hiding in the nooks and crannies, just out of sight. The miniature wildflowers that dot the forest floor are another treasure of the forest. I am struck by their delicate beauty and feel grateful for the gift that nature has bestowed upon us. As I stroll further, I glimpse our herd of highland cows and mini donkeys in the distance. They make sure to take the time to wade through the creeks... graze on the fresh spring grass.. and lay in the shade. Their gentle presence adds to the peacefulness of the forest, reminding me of the simple joys of life. I take a moment to sit and watch them as they graze, contentedly nibbling on the fresh grass. While I sit on the cool grass, our livestock guardian dogs, Nyla and Blue, find me during their patrol and run down, excited for scratches and belly rubs. After they get their fill, I slowly rise and start my meander back to our cabin. As I leave, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the natural world that surrounds us. I am reminded that we are all connected, and that nature has a way of bringing us back to what's truly important in life. I hope this post gave you a glimpse at the magic of this property, and inspired you to get outside and experience the beauty that surrounds you. What one thing makes you feel like Spring has arrived? Let me know in the comments! xx Brooke

Antiques have been a passion of ours for many years, and we believe that they add a special charm and personality to any home. There is something about the beauty and history of each piece that speaks to us on a deep level. We love the stories behind each piece, the craftsmanship and skill that went into creating it, and the unique patina that comes with age. Incorporating antiques into your home allows you to create a space that is warm, welcoming, and full of character. Each piece has its own unique story to tell, reflecting the wear and tear of time and adding depth and interest to your decor. We love how antiques bring a sense of history and cultural significance into our homes, reminding us of our past and connecting us to a larger community. If you are looking for the perfect antique to incorporate into your home, check out our collection of storied pieces in our online shop! One of the things we love most about antiques is the craftsmanship and skill that went into creating each piece. They were made to last, with a level of quality that is hard to find in today's mass-produced items. From the hand-carved details on a piece of furniture to the intricate designs on a piece of pottery, antiques are a testament to the skill of the past and the beauty of handmade objects. Antiques come in all shapes and sizes, from furniture to jewelry, from paintings to pottery, and everything in between. They offer endless possibilities for creating a unique and personalized home that reflects your personality and interests. By mixing old and new, you can create a space that is both timeless and modern. We believe that antiques should be appreciated for their imperfections and patina. The wear and tear that comes with age adds character and depth to each piece, making them even more beautiful and special. They offer a glimpse into the past, reminding us of our history and cultural heritage. In our book Patina Style, we encourage readers to embrace the beauty of antiques and to use them to create a warm and welcoming home that reflects their personalities and experiences. We share our tips and ideas for incorporating antiques into your own home, showing how they can add depth and interest to any space. We love to hunt for antiques, whether it's at an antique store, a flea market, or even in our own attic or basement. The thrill of finding a hidden gem and uncovering its unique story is one of the joys of collecting antiques. Each piece has a story to tell, and the hunt for it is all part of the adventure. Antiques are not just objects, they inform our way of life. They offer beauty, history, and character, and they have the power to transform any space. Their imperfect elegance allows us to embrace knicks and chips. By incorporating antiques into your home decor, you can create a space that is truly unique and full of personality. We hope that our passion for antiques inspires you to embrace the beauty of the past and incorporate it into your own home. xx Brooke

When Steve, Leila, and I moved to Patina Meadow, we knew we wanted to further the mission we established at Patina Farm: to create a farm that was not only beautiful but sustainable. Our animals are a vital component of that mission as they help to maintain the land, control pests, and improve soil health. As you know, we already have quite an expansive animal family, consisting of cows, donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs, cats, dogs, and chickens, who made the move with us across the country from California. From producing delicious eggs for our breakfast to keeping our soil healthy, all of our animal family members serve a vital purpose in the health of us and our land. If you would like to see more images like this, check out our book, Patina Living. (Image Credit: Victoria Pearson) Since the landscape of our new 100-acre property is quite different from our previous home, we quickly discovered there were new roles that needed to be filled. And so, our animal family grew by quite a few! We're excited to introduce you to our newest additions: two babydoll sheep, six piglets, two Anatolian Shepherds, and our flock of guinea fowl! We have added two precious chocolate colored babydoll sheep, Mo and Flannel, to our existing flock of babydolls, Cash, Paisley, and Linen. These little lambs have captured our hearts with their friendly personalities, soft wooly coats, and adorable bleats. Despite their small size, they are excellent grazers, and we love watching them keep our grass perfectly trimmed. We also have six new Heritage Hog piglets. We haven't settled on names for these guys just yet, we are waiting to learn a bit more about their personalities before we choose ones for them. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them in the comments! Once they grow up, they will have free range of the back part of our property to clear out the forest floor, which is a natural and sustainable way to help manage the forest. We are thrilled to have Nyla and Blue, our two faithful Anatolian Shepherds, join us as guard dogs. Their fierce loyalty and protective nature have made them invaluable members of our family, and we are grateful for their steadfast presence as they keep watch over our livestock. They spend the nights patrolling the land, keeping predators away, and then they snooze all day! Last but not least, we have our delightful Guinea Fowl. These quirky birds may seem out of place to some, but we see them as vital members of our farm. We love their distinctive calls that fill the air and their tireless work as pest controllers. We're amazed at how effectively they eat insects and other pests, like ticks, that can harm us, our crops, and our other animals. They also provide endless entertainment! We feel incredibly blessed to have such wonderful animals on our farm, and we are excited to see them continue to thrive and grow. They bring so much joy and love to our lives, and we cannot imagine our farm without them. Thank you for letting us share our animal family with you, and we look forward to updating you on their adventures in the future. xx, Brooke

I’ve been planting flowers for over 35 years… designing and nurturing blooming gardens on rooftops, small suburban plots and where ever I could imagine on the five acres of Patina Farm. Although the weather conditions at Patina Meadow in Tennessee are quite different from the temperate California climate that I have grown accustom, I am determined to continue and deepen my relationship with flora. This time, my guide will be our nature loving daughter, Leila, who is taking the lead in creating what we have decided to call The Bloomerie at Patina Meadow. The Bloomerie will be comprised of an expansive garden with raised planter beds, and two 15x24 greenhouses, separated by a drying room. We are adding a large table in the middle for community events, framed by fruit trees. The entire Bloomerie will be surrounded by berry vines, and berry picking celebrations will occur every spring and summer, and apple pickings will occur in late summer into the fall. With the help of our biodynamic consultant, Andrew Beedy and our always helpful contractor, Decker Housley, Leila, Steve and I are starting the design of our greenhouses and planter bed gardens where our seedlings will become a living and ever evolving bouquet for humans and pollinators to enjoy. We’ve placed the Bloomerie between our log house and the site where our new event barn and Potterie will be built, creating a floral garden that will be seen from both structures. As visitors walk through our front gate, the beauty of the garden will greet them on their path towards our home. As a parent nothing bring me more joy than working on this with Leila… our roles as student and teacher switch back and forth.. her face lights up with excitement while she patiently explains to me her recent discoveries… the healing powers of the medicinal herbs she wants to sow and the biodynamic practices she wants to implement. We both get giddy chatting on and on about the varieties of sweet peas, dahlias, and more that she has found to plant. Although the greenhouses have just arrived, preparation began months ago. In early October, Leila and Andrew spent a morning making barrel compost; which they prepared by mixing cow manure from our Highland fold, eggshells, basalt powder, and biodynamic compost preparations together and burying it in a brick lined hole. This month, after spending the winter buried in the ground, Leila will unearth the result; a potent compost that, when mixed with water and sprayed on the soil, will help enrich the earth with beneficial microbes and fungi which will encourage mineral movement in the ground. Seed sowing began in February with one of Leila's favorite hardy annuals, Sweet Peas. Tucked beneath the porch of Patina Home & Garden, over a hundred sweet pea seeds from Floret Flowers began their journey. Leila cared for them daily, and they are patiently preparing for the day that will be planted out as the first official flowers in the Bloomerie. We can't wait to share more of our journey as it unfolds, and are excited to welcome you to the Bloomerie sometime soon. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments, Leila and I would be happy to answer them. xx Brooke