colored lights

I have always been a white Christmas lights kind of girl.  So classic and simple and pretty.  Now I live in the desert where the lack of snow makes for a rather drab winterscape.  White lights just don't seem to cut it anymore. I went a little ga-ga when I saw this photo out of J.Crew.  All those big bright lights but not the least bit tacky or over the top.  Classic but happy classic.  

Well, I tried to do it and as with most well styled ads, it's easier seen then copied.  Bulbs that large don't come with a battery pack and who wants a cord dangling from the front door.  I'll have to get re-envisioned and try again next year.  

ceramic tile roofs

ceramic tile: These are the roofs that I see everyday, everywhere I go. The roof of the desert. True ceramic tile roofs are very expensive as they are quite labor intensive...but that roof will last you a good 60 to 80 years. As with slate, you may a premium upfront but perhaps it is more cost effective in the long run.

{images from: Rancho San Miguel, John Amato}

roofs

There is a property that we are eyeing right now {not pictured above}, but the little house that we would live in would need a new roof. We live in the Southwest, oh let's just say it - we live in the desert. I grew up in Illinois and Pennsylvania. When I think of roofing materials, it doesn't really go beyond cedar shake shingles. I love them. If it was an option, I would buy a house covered in them. I don't see too many cedar shingled roofs out here in the desert so I'm off to investigate some viable options.

I was really surprised by the above photo. They chose a red metal roof for such a traditional architectural style and it works. It look quaint and tidy and I really love the pop of color. Now metal, I know would work here.

What are your favorite roofing materials?

Has anyone ever asked you that question before?

Let me be the first.

{image from Russell Versaci, via Farmhouse Modern}