Have you ever visited Vermont? We live less than two hours from the border so Tee and I try to get over there whenever we can, we usually visit Brattleboro since it's the closest and has some neat little stores and a few galleries that we enjoy browsing. Vermont is a beautiful state, it's definitely worth a visit for either skiing in the Winter or for visiting a working farm in the Spring (I really want to do this). And from an interiors perspective, it's a pleasure to step out of the mid century modern or ultra contemporary spaces for a little Country Chic. Ready to visit the home of an Interior Stylist based in Shelburne, Vermont?

Nest Decorating is a small design firm and art studio owned and operated by the talented Tamar Schechner, a Parsons grad who spent twenty years creating photo shoots and spreads for several magazines as Stylist and Creative Director. Now Tamar is out on her own doing what she loves - decorating homes in Vermont, dreaming up crafty projects to sell in her etsy store (she also sells wholesale to stores), being a good mother, and blogging. As for her design practice Tamar's mission is to, "Make my clients as comfortable as possible, to truly understand the way their home functions and to work around their needs and possibilities creating a great inspirational space for them to live in and come home to."

The stairs once had a tired berber rug but when they purchased the home the rug was removed to reveal plywood (eek!) so they painted it a fun green.

Work studio space

Her mother's painting, "Spring" (part of a series of four) installed above the back door. It's beautiful above the door and yes, that is a pink door.

This Japanese kimono belonged to her mother when she was little, she was born in Shanghai in 1931 so this is a most cherished piece deserving center stage above her chest of drawers.

The patterned blanket at the foot of the bed is from Urban Outfitters, the chair cushion is a tea towel, and the red floral painting (in the black frame) was painted by her mother.

A clever way to display her earrings - a window screen repurposed!

Some of the things she makes and sells in her etsy store.

A cozy spot to read complete with a rug from IKEA and an old chair with fabric tacked onto it.

Looking into her kitchen.

A country kitchen is hardly complete without colorful dishware.

Thank you Tamar for allowing us into your country home today - it's colorful, creative, and full of life, warmth, and positive energy. I really enjoy all the art in each room and the stories so many of your things can tell. That's truly what makes a house a home. Thank you again!

(images from tamar schechner)