Two of my good friends just returned from a European adventure, and since one of them is an architect, they snapped a ton of photos of architectural elements. I was particularly taken by this patterned floor, found in a building in Slovakia, which I initially thought was wood. It's marble though, and absolutely gorgeous at that.

Have you been inspired by architectural elements on any trips you've taken?

For most of us, the letters AA conjure up thoughts of the 12 Steps, morning-after remorse, or booze-filled Augusten Burroughs memoirs. But, when you're talking about Angela Adams, the letters connote all kinds of goodness. This time, it's pillows. Angela has impressed me with a new collection of throw pillows ($85) in a variety of bold graphic patterns and shapes. If her attention-grabbing rugs were too audacious for you, or just too expensive, maybe now is the time to incorporate some AA into your life. And there's no need to meet with a sponsor, or even cut back on your cocktail habit!

• AT:LA made an easy DIY candle holder.
• Charles and Hudson thinks Sherwin Williams should consider a new logo.
• Door Sixteen injects a bit of black into her very white home.
• Sfgirlbybay went white in the kitchen.
• Shelterrific considers artificial grass.
• AT:SF explains buying and selling Craigslist etiquette.
• One Design*Sponge reader undertook a cheap and fabulous before and after.
• More Ways to Waste Time perks us up with some cheerful tea towels.
• Inhabitat tells us about Earthrace, the biofuel boat that crossed the world in 60 days.

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Interior stylist Laurence Pasquier has a background in textiles and a distinct, scenic style. She feeds her influences and inspirations by spending time in London and Paris, two of Europe's most cutting-edge cities. Pasquier is often hired by communication agencies to build sets for a launch, and magazines like Living Etc, Homes & Gardens, and Real Homes rely on her to style atmospheres for photo shoots. Pasquier also collaborates with various trend studios to advise companies on their creative endeavors, positioning brands and analyzing growing trends, translating her observations into attainable style. For inspiration check out the gallery below.

This designer/contractor-owned home, which was featured in This Old House, was blemished with a small, dated kitchen that was closed off except for a doorway and a counter window. It also lacked good counter space. The owners decided to knock down the dividing wall, update the amenities with simple, streamlined selections, and infuse the space with bright color. The resulting space is open, vibrant, and modern — and a far cry from its icky roots. To see the kitchen after its renovation, read more