Big Book, Bigger Inspiration

Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need. (Sarah Ban Breathnach)

Apartment Therapy's site provides the opportunity to peek in on the creative genius of stylish places that don't exist in the pages of magazines or on the sets of motion pictures. Rather, the homes highlighted belong to folks who have crafted beautifully functional and incredibly livable spaces.

When I discovered Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan's newest endeavor, Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces, I immediate added the book to my wish list. I have been an apartment dweller and small space lover for the past 8 years. Thus is a life of most twentysomethings. When my Mister and I decided to shack up, the stakes were raised.

I sometimes dream of having an unlimited budget, exceptional taste and an eye for the unseen beauty of flea-market finds. My reality lies in the middle of a busy summer, with a modest budget and plenty of other things on my mind.

When I bought Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces a few weeks ago, I was surprised at how it read like a good book—with lots of eye candy. I cozied up with a cup of tea, wrapped myself in a blanket, and sat out on the porch. Flipping through the pages, soaking up the clever space-making of Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan's muses.

I have a secret hope that our individual belongings will combine into a magical orchestra of perfect harmony, but I know that can't be. Even the most beautifully put-together spaces are temporary, fleeting works in progress.

Image Credit: Apartment Therapy