Cuban Style...

Good Monday morning!! I generally take Monday off because as a Worship Leader, I need it after Sunday!  Today is such a beautiful day, I was inspired by the warm, spring weather to share some of our design influences.

My husband is from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. That alone would influence one's design sense for sure! I grew up here in Western North Carolina so we have to combine the southern, rustic and Caribbean into something we both like. Hmm. We both have traveled extensively and love Spain, Turkey, Italy, and the Azores Islands.  I found a wonderful book last summer that put everything we love into one island--Cuba! While I have been to Cuba, my trip was limited to Guantanamo Bay, and although an incredibly beautiful part of the island, I did not get to see much Cuban style!

What we love is the combination of European influenced furniture with island style. It really works well with my southern antiques and our finds across Europe. So I thought I would share a little of our family living area.

We love warm colors, plants, dark furniture and an eclectic mix of accessories. I have used Mexican Talavera vases mixed with antique Chinese art, Turkish wrought iron, and antique persian rugs from Iran. I have rearranged things and re-accessorized in here many times, but I keep going back to this basic style because I just love it the feel of it.

These candles are placed in a vintage ash tray from the 70s. This mahogany table was inherited but had horrible stains. I sanded it down to the bare wood, then stained and coated with varnish. I love the pattern of the wood, plus it's really a nice size.

One of my favorite pieces is this antique walnut sideboard inherited from a lovely southern lady. The vintage artwork also came from her collection. I have used a Belgian tapestry there, but loved the warm colors in this print. The wrought iron candle holder is one of a pair I bought in Turkey for a whopping $22. The cross came from the garden section of Lowes! 

I just loved how the sunlight was bouncing off the floor...

Here is a closer look at the antique Chinese brass bowl...also from the same relative. She lived in China for several years and brought back many treasures.

Notice the lanterns in the windows...I bought those in Turkey but you can find similar lanterns at World Market or online.

A few photos from the book "Cuban Elegance" show how the mix of furnishings and influences comes together in this warm, inviting style. See the gorgeous corner cabinet? My lovely, talented husband is making corner china cabinets for me out of reclaimed walnut:-) I cannot wait until they are finished!!

This rug makes my heart skip a beat as does the tapestry! And for Kim, at Savvy Southern Style, look at the antlers!!

I provided a link for this lovely book at Amazon.com if you would like to check it out.
Cuban Elegance

There you have a peek at our Cuban-influenced style! I think it's important to take what you like and surround yourself with things that make you, your family and guests feel welcome and comfortable. Most of you know I am all about using family heirlooms but giving them new life with accessories and color.  It's all about making your space individual and one of a kind!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoy our space and find something you can take back home to your space!

Since there are several tabletops vignettes here, I'll be joining Marty at "A Stroll Through Life" for Tabletop Tuesday. Be sure to stop by there to see all the lovely accessorizing!!


Anita