While pregnant with her first child, Julie Marabelle found herself designing art and accessories for her new baby's room. Since that time she and her husband, Simon Summerscales, launched their own company, Famille Summerbelle, selling Julie's adorable designs on a line of accessories intended for children but smart enough for adults. More

Big news today from the palace: Prince William and Kate Middleton are expecting their first child. Along with our hearty congratulations for the royal couple, here are a few selections for nursery decor ideas and inspirations along with some practical tips and advice... More

Name: Claire & Nick Walton
Location: Hampshire, England
Size: 1,300 square feet
Years lived in: 5 years; Owned

Claire & Nick Walton live in a traditional 17th century thatched cottage with their two young daughters Celeste and Penelope. Set in the village of East Meon in Hampshire, England, their home is filled with characterful details such as rustic beams, traditional leaded lights and solid oak floorboards. The couple have also added a contemporary kitchen extension at the back of the house, creating a light-filled space perfect for busy family life.

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Name: Isabel Cooke & Claire Walsh
Location: Hackney, London
Size: 2 bedroom apartment
Years lived in: 2 years; Owned

Isabel and Claire's 1950's ex-local authority apartment has been given a new lease of life with their eclectic and global finds, family heirlooms and a huge dose of enthusiasm. Claire, a trends analyst, travels the world searching for great design, while Bel has a great eye for local vintage finds.

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We're learning about UK-based Not on the High Street just in time for holiday shopping. Started by Holly Tucker and Sophie Cornish, this e-tailer stocks thousands of unique items from independent designers not found elsewhere. More

Vanessa Barneby is a former Vogue Living Editor. Alice Gates is a painter with roots in fashion illustration. Together they are Barneby Gates, producing new takes on traditional wallpaper in their native England. More

I love discovering new sources for unique gifts and Cow & Co. comes to my attention just in time for the upcoming gift giving season. This little Liverpool shop (don't worry, they're online too) stocks a wide array of gifts from independent artists around the world. From desktop, tabletop and kitchen to bicycles, toys and magazines, chances are you'll find a gift for one or more folks on your list. More

Rowen and Wren are a couple with a passion for design and an eye for beautiful products. They've been in the retail and houseware design fields for years and now they are bringing their style to an eponymous online shop. And for those of us who are a little style challenged, the couple also offers Room Service, an online interior design service. More

New York's Chelsea High Line is inspiring the cities worldwide to imagine new uses for forgotten infrastructure. London just picked a winning proposal in their design competition: mushrooms. A series of forgotten tunnels under Oxford Street will serve as an urban mushroom garden that can be explored by the public. The second place entry proposed turning old canals into commuter swimming lanes.

In other news, Facebook toys with "want" buttons for brands, and a room where you walk in the rain but don't get wet. See the headlines after the jump. More

Of all the myriad gorgeous homes I've seen, I always prefer the ones that look laid-back and welcoming. The kinds of spaces that seem inhabited by friendly, cool owners whose friends hang out there constantly. The lovely home of Canadian blogger Elisa Rathje perfectly fits that description. More