Welcome back to another edition of The Weekly Muse. Here I share a little peek behind the scenes: random happenings, small discoveries, and things that caught my attention recently—thoughts and finds I think you’ll enjoy as much as I do.
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Random Happenings
I’m in the process of refreshing the finish on a dining table and chairs I picked up from a consignment shop about a year ago. It’s amazing how much a single product can transform a piece—suddenly the table looks almost brand new, and the chairs feel like they belong in a much more polished room.
Do home projects ever take over your space the way they do mine? It seems one small update always grows into a whole-room undertaking. I’m learning to embrace the chaos and the small victories along the way.
A friend of mine is updating some rooms in her home and invited me over for a little design session. It’s so much fun to collaborate and offer ideas—plus, helping someone else make choices is a great excuse to indulge in a little shopping and design talk together. I can’t wait to see the finished rooms; they’re going to be lovely.
While I’ve been working in the dining room, I’ve been contemplating a simple decorative idea: arranging plates around a mirror. I’ve collected a variety of plates over time and think the arrangement could add a charming, collected feel to the wall. What holds me back is the thought of making holes in the wallpaper—tiny as they would be, I’m nervous about altering the finish. Still, it’s such a tempting look that I may take the plunge and test a few options first.
Caught My Eye
I’m loving the bright, airy studio recently completed by Molly Basile Interiors. The mix of clean white surfaces and striking chinoiserie pieces—especially the ginger jars—creates a joyful, collected feeling that feels both classic and fresh.
Image via Molly Basile Interiors
I’ve never met a scallop motif I didn’t like—there’s something so cheerful about it. I recently spotted a doormat with just that pattern and smiled immediately. Little design details like that can set the tone before you even open the door.
There’s a chair I adore that would be perfect for curling up with a book. The fabric is soothing and the silhouette classic, the kind of piece that invites you to settle in for an afternoon of reading and tea. It reminds me of the Pottery Barn Carlisle Chair aesthetic—comfortable, tailored, and timeless.
Pottery Barn Carlisle Chair
On a different note, I came across a clever summertime tip: cleaning your grill with an onion. It sounds odd at first, but the natural acids in an onion can help break down grime and leave a fresh scent. I’m planning to try it before the next barbecue and will report back on how well it works.
Speaking of summer meals, I’m eager to make a pesto chicken tortellini with vegetables. The combination of bright tomatoes, tender asparagus, and pillowy tortellini tossed in pesto feels like the perfect warm-weather dinner—simple, colorful, and full of flavor. I love one-pan recipes that make weeknight cooking effortless.
Pesto Chicken Tortellini and Veggies
Back to onions for a moment: have you tried a preparation known as Tennessee Onions? They look like a delightful, slightly sweet side dish that would be fantastic at a potluck or family gathering. I’m always on the lookout for approachable recipes that feel special without being fussy.
With the 4th of July coming up, I’ve also seen a patriotic wreath with a perfectly placed sash and a single monogram—such a simple, classy way to welcome guests. Small seasonal touches can make a home feel festive without going overboard.
Finally, I’m thinking of adding Allium to the garden this season after reading a lovely piece about planting them. Their globe-shaped blooms make such a dramatic statement among perennials, and they’re surprisingly easy to grow. I’m excited to see how they perform in the garden next spring.
On Sutton Place
Wishing you a lovely rest of the weekend—may it be restful, inspiring, and full of small joys. Until next time!