GOOD THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES

The magazine serial is a lost art form these days. With websites, Twitter, moment-by-moment news updates, and yes, blogs, who can be expected to remember what happened yesterday, much less in last month's magazine? But serials used to be the lifeblood of magazines and newspapers; Charles Dickens published many of his stories in serial fashion, and crowds would throng the docks in America for the delivery of the latest installment of his stories from London. So kudos to - of all publications - a home decor magazine for experimenting again with the serial. House Beautiful's monthly installments of Frances Schultz's East Hampton's cottage makeover are as charming as the house itself. Here are a few snaps from this month's update (more here for last month's living room makeover).

Ms. Schultz's challenge was to combine two small bedrooms into a pint-sized master suite:

The new study includes work space and a cozy spot for guests. The lacquered blue walls add light and dimension to a small space.

All images, housebeautiful.com.

TWEEN'SPERATION

Apropos of nothing, I was wandering around the Pottery Barn Teen website the other day, and marveling at all the great designs they have - an adult would envy this bedroom:

Coraline Canopy Bed, $999 +

The furniture leans toward country chic, but I loved this little Minnie Stool, also available in blue and green, at $299.

Mother nature should be so lucky - how cute is this rug? Also in blue, black, and pink, starting at $299.

Acrylic spruces up a classic fixture; De-Lit Chandelier with ribbon trim shades, $159.

Calling Mary Mcdonald... Upholstered Headboard, $299 +, in a variety of patterns.

A hint of chinoiserie in white or Tiffany blue, the Pop Up Storage Bedside Table, $199.

Zig zag goes to Palm Beach. Zig Zag pillow covers, $12.99.

All images, Pottery Barn Teen.

MAGIC BY MARCHESA

Design house Marchesa has long been like the runner-up for best supporting actress:  stunning and never quite taken seriously. For years, Marchesa's creations have been passed over as so much eye candy. Stars love the gowns, but the fashion elite have been much more reserved ...Marchesa is Hollywood courted, but never haute couture. However, a few forays into Indie style (body suits?) and their long term staying power may finally win Marchesa the Oscar. And based on the Spring 2011 collection, I think it's time to say, "the envelope please!"

Images, style.com

The Aquatic Life

I know that PINK is supposedly the color of the year, but pardon me if I disagree... what this winter season needs is blue:  blue skies, blue seas...

Something old, something new, something Joe Nye, and something blue...

House Beautiful has some lovely examples of polished azure.... Room by Ashley Whittaker.

And turquoise + black and white makes everything right in an eclectic mix by Kim Coleman and Michele Green.

Z Gallerie, one of my favorite decor shops, has gone all out to sea for spring - from foam blue frames to deep sky ikats, they have a beautifully, reasonably price selection of accessories and furniture. These are winter blues we can all love!

All images, Z Gallerie and House Beautiful online (www.housebeautiful.com).