I remember when I got back to the U.S. after living in Italy for seven years, and people often asked me “how my trip was.” I never figured out how to sum up seven years of my life in a quick, conversational way, so, I usually just ended up responding, “great!”. Well, writing this blog post about my new book, “Jungalow, Decorate Wild”, feels kind of like that. I have been working on this book for about three years, but in some ways, it feels like I’ve been working on it my whole life. And summing up the book, or my feelings around it, in a few short paragraphs, won’t be easy, but I will do my best.
When I embarked on the mission to create the “Jungalow” book, I knew that color, pattern, plants, and vintage were going to be a big part of it. I mean, anyone who has seen any of my work could bet on that. But as I began to actually write the book, so many stories poured out of me–stories from my childhood growing up in Berkeley, my family, my relationship with color, my identity, traveling, living in other countries, my roots–and that’s when I realized that this book was going to be a more personal book. In so many ways, Jungalow is a reflection of who I am, how I was raised, the places I’ve been, and the people I’ve met along the way. And, in order to tell the story of Jungalow, I have to also share stories myself, why I am the way that I am — why I’m so passionate about plants and where that passion grew from, why I love patterns and how I first learned to create them. It was in thinking about the “why’s” that this book came to be.
The personal stories are the glue that holds this book together. But what I hope readers will also glean from this book, is how to tap into your own stories to create a home that lights you up and supports your dreams. How to pinpoint colors that move you so that you may surround yourself with them. How to train your eye to find the beauty in the little moments, so that then you can amplify them in your own home. How to add life to your home — with plants, natural materials, and by blurring the separation between the outdoors and indoors. How to take a cue from your roots and your travels to create a meaningful home, one that helps you feel more connected with who you are and who you want to become.
Big topics, I know. And my aim was to do all of this while also transporting you into a visual wonderland full of inspiration from inside the home and outside the home–and include tips, activities and ideas to help you get your creative juices flowing and move you to pick up a paintbrush, or get outside into nature and forage for color and pattern inspiration.
Writing this book has been a vulnerable experience. It’s hard to know these days how much of myself to put out there, how much to keep for myself, but it is my deepest hope that in putting myself ‘out there,’ my story will help you connect with your story. That sharing how I see the world, and my “why’s” will help you to examine your ‘why’s” and help you to feel empowered to create a home that you love.
And now for the thank you’s…
And as with all projects, I did not do this alone. This vision was brought to life with the help of so many incredibly talented people. I co-wrote this book with my husband, Jason. Jason is such a clear and deep thinker and has such a magical way with, not just words, but also concepts. When I hold the finished book in my hands I will always think about the long nights we shared in our casita, after Ida went to sleep, discussing color theory and biophilic design. I am so proud of him and of us for the words in this book.
The next shout-out is for Dabito, my dear friend and long-time collaborator who shot The New Bohemians books and also shot this book. But saying “shot” the book doesn’t really do him justice because working with Dabito, I don’t just get an incredible photographer, but I also get to work with a world-class designer and stylist, and a trusted sounding board for all things visual, and a friend who I get to share lots and lots of laughs with.
Sara Rose, who leads Partnerships at Jungalow also needs a very special shout-out. Besides helping to organize, style and project manage dozens of photoshoots for this, Sara was the first to read the chapters as they came out and give invaluable feedback along the way. Not to mention coming it at crunch time, with a newborn at home, during a pandemic, to help with things like the glossary when my eyes were crossing and I feel like I was losing my mind. Thank you Sara <3
The help from the rest of my team at Jungalow was also invaluable (Piper! Kelly! Kiki! Kim!) helped to bring the book to life with countless hours helping with photoshoots and packaging, and the newer members of the team (Jasmine! Tara! Danielle! Natalie!) who stepped in to lend a hand with book marketing and promotion and general support–all while carrying their regular workloads, and taking over many of my responsibilities in the business when I needed to step away to work on the book. Thank you all so much, I couldn’t have done this without you.
To the folks at Abrams, my publisher: Shawna, my editor, gave the book a special shine–and encouraged me to add more captions, dig into the text more, tease out great ideas (and edit out the not-so-great-ones), and the book is so much better for it. Deb, the art director and Heesang, the designer on the book brought A VIBE to the book design. I wanted this book to feel both timeless and quirky, modern and playful, exuberant and clean, and somehow they managed to deliver on all of my visions. Also, shout out to Gabby at Abrams PR for diving in to spread the word about the book and helping to make the launch both fun and seamless.
The pic on the cover was produced by my rug partners at Loloi Rugs, and it is such an honor to be able to showcase our work on the cover of the book, and inside the book as well, and I’m so grateful for our partnership with Loloi.
My literary agent, Kate Woodrow, believed in this book from the get-go and has been on this journey with me every step of the way making sure, not only the outcome was beautiful, but the process too. Thank you, Kate! And to my licensing agent, Kim, who is always there to support, no matter how tangentially related the project is to licensing (LOL) Thank you forever!
Sophia, Hayley, and Jessy from LaRue PR juggled an incredible amount of work on the lead up to this release — and help to land some very dreamy press placements for this. If you’ve been “seeing the book everywhere” Sophia, Hayley, and Jessy are the magic-makers on that front.
To Bubbie and Popop, (AKA Ronnie and Charles (Chalos) Blakeney, I have to thank for nurturing my creativity, for taking us on trips around the world when we were kids, to making me believe in myself, and for being very much the heart of this book — especially the Magic In The Mix Chapter. And to my other parents (my In-laws) Mary and Jim and Papa Denny and Brenda, thank you for all of the constant support and all the babysitting without which this book would have probably come out in 2026. :P I love you guys.
To my friends who have posted about the book and shared the love on your blogs, IG’s and beyond, I love y’all and thank you so much.
Lastly, I want to thank you – the Jungalow community, for showing up for me. This book is for you–it was only with your help that I was able to convince a major publisher that wild design has mass appeal, it was only with your help that I’ve been able to grow Jungalow into the force that it is today. I’m so grateful for you.
Get the book at your favorite online or local bookshop, or pick up a signed copy at Jungalow.
Photos by Sara Toufali for Jungalow
John Paul says
The book sounds interesting. Will surely get my hands on it to read.
impossible game says
Anyway, the answer “great” is also the best choice in such circumstances =))
Luciana says
That’s a great cover design of the ‘Jungalow’ book! Like it! I also believe there are a lot of things and inspiration that lie behind the success story, and I like that you acknowledged all of them! I am a professional academic writer at this https://assignmentbro.com/us/law-assignment-help webpage and help students with their assignment writing tasks related to law topics. I want to read your book soon! All the best to you!
the read today says
Wow…..Reading about your designs and creativity will be fun. I am a blogger and would love to learn from you about designs and creativity. These days I am working on my home decor and searching that I landed on your website. Would make sure to follow you on Instagram
geometry dash says
Anyway, the answer “great” is also the best choice in such circumstances =))
Tracy Cruz says
Really love the book!!! I enjoyed reading it. I will definitely buy another book if you release another one!! Tree Service Colorado Springs
mcdvoice says
Fold, navigation, spaces, colour – alluring mate mcdvoice.com
cookie clicker says
La recette est toute simple et ça a l’air trop bon, merci pour le partage.
Dylan Chen says
Thank you for your comment, yay!
Towing Auror says
Absolutely! i read this! The style focuses on comfort and coziness with a bold expression of color. Plants are a big part of the jungalow design
Pamela Johnson says
Wow such a great article i have read in a such a long time. Reading about the ideas of your design is such a great knowledge i have get. I am making my dream home and for that i have been searching over the internet about ideas and design for home decor, so that i found your website. I am so glad that i found this informative article.
Lisa says
I expected the color and plants. Should be packed with fun ideas.
Ben says
Is downloading music from the Mp3 Quack search engine free or is there a limit to what u can download on Mp3Quack free download website
https://tecvase.com/mp3quack-mp3-quack-music-search-mp3quack-com/
iMessage Download says
Thanks for the information keep sharing such informative post keep suggesting such post.
Tree Trimming Loveland says
Thanks for the information! Great book . my child will love it to read this!
Arborist Golden Co says
I love to read this book! I learn something about this, thank you for sharing this. keep it up the good work.
Lilly says
When you are seeking the services of an essay ghost writer or tutor, it is important to look at as many different opinions as possible. This will ensure that you get the highest quality work possible. When you read a bad review, you want to know why the writer was not satisfied with his/her experience. Of course, if you read bad reviews from people who were not happy with their services, you want to be even more certain before hiring them to assist you. I always read BestWritersOnline reviews before contacting the writing service and once it saved me a terrible mistake.
celeb networth says
I love your decoration style~ Thank you for sharing the news.
vidmate says
keep sharing such informative post keep suggesting such post.
w3toys says
I am a blogger and would love to learn from you about designs and creativity
NavyArmyCCU Login says
I must say you have written a great article. The way you have described everything is phenomenal.
Librly says
Długie, obiektywne a czasem subiektywne Recenzje Filmowe. Jedne z niewielu stron gdzie poczytasz coś sensownego i dłużej i filmach i serialach. Pisane z sercem od widza dla widza.
Tree Service Loveland Co says
Absolutely! I learn from this! Jungalow, a word created by combining jungle and bungalow, describes a decorating style that has recently gained in popularity.
Vindousis gadayeneba says
Thanks for some other fantastic post vindousis-gadayeneba If you need technical assistance with the tplink repeater login
Sakshi says
I’m goin to rad this book hope something from it.
Directory Listing says
Great idea! The jungalow style focuses on comfort and coziness with a bold expression of color. Plants are a big part of the jungalow design.
howar dellis says
Absolutely! This teaches me something! Jungalow is a term coined by combining the words jungle and bungalow to represent a popular design style io games
Macivris xelosani says
in a few short paragraphs, მაცივრის ხელოსანი won’t be easy, but I will do my best.
geometry dash says
I should express that I like this article so a ton and moreover using it in regular. I believe you would continue sharing better than average articles here.
KiziMizi says
I cannot express how fantastic this book is. It feels so nice, it’s a great size, and both the book jacket and inside cover are gorgeous.
lawn salwar kameez online says
Big topics, I know. And my aim was to do all of this while also transporting you into a visual wonderland full of inspiration from inside the home and outside the home–and include tips, activities and ideas to help you get your creative juices flowing and move you to pick up a paintbrush, or get outside into nature and forage for color and pattern inspiration.
Eva Aboin says
People are much curious about their home and kitchen. They buy high quality Kitchen and Home appliances. This is stunning article over how actually you find this.
http://www.choicewar.com/
sweepstakesfever says
Want to Win grand Prize? Visit https://sweepstakesfever.com/t-mobile-5g-road-trip-sweepstakes and follow on-screen instructions to complete and submit the registration form. Don’t lose the chance.
Alex J Walker says
So nice guide. I just loved reading it!
sweepstakesfever says
Want to Win grand Prize? Visit https://sweepstakesfever.com/fordplayoffspromo-nascar-com and follow on-screen instructions to complete and submit the registration form. Don’t lose the chance.
swimmingpoolll says
Great thank you for sharing the amazing article.
Pest Control says
Really great and useful post, thank you for sharing.
waukesha dumpster rentals says
So nice guide. I just loved reading it!
Jane Chadwick says
You should read this myhomeworkhelp review https://essaywritingservices.review/reviews/myhomeworkhelp-review if you are already tired of looking for fake information and you need a site where you can find everything.
Jane says
It’s something of an art to make candles with waxcrafter. Candles are well-known, although certain types of candles are less well-known. Candles are used throughout the world for religious purposes as well as for ornamentation. They have been utilized in religious rituals to enhance spiritual awareness or simply as decoration. Candles also provide the warmth needed to stay safe and healthy in cold weather. Lighting a candle can make small spaces feel larger and more open, or warm an atmosphere when someone is chilled. They can be used in meditation and visualization practices, as well as for general relaxation purposes.
rahul says
Euro Truck Simulator is a mobile or computer game that kids love to play, it’s a truck simulation games & truck wali game where drive city cargo truck driving for expert users in this euro truck driver 2021.
In truck wali game & lorry driving games, lot of driving skills you have to learned during playing vehicle simulation games or Euro Truck Simulator
Euro Truck Simulator Truck 3D apk
Bow Advisor says
Wow such a great article i have read in a such a long time.
Bow Advisor says
certain types of candles are less well-known.
Fastest Crossbow says
Wow such a great article i have read in a such a long time.
Fanny Subhan says
Very nice blog and articles. I am really very happy to visit your blog. Now I am found what I actually want.
cv writing says
Students are required to do their assignments in a timely manner
basketballstarsunblocked.com says
Good job. Very nice blogs and articles. I am really happy to visit your blog.
word hurdle says
I really enjoyed your book. The cover of the book is impressively designed in color coordination. Everything is so perfect.
Maks Romanov says
a really wonderful story about how you traveled through Italy, I will definitely tell my friends about it, about how much you had to see
weitaibio says
I Just love your Blog super interesting and informative.
xay nha tron goi Phan Rang says
It is so amazing DIY project. I love this bench and I can do it at home alone. But are these benches wobbly at?
wordle game says
Themes about nature always interest and attract me. It’s so beautiful
retro bowl says
Your article was a delight to read and learn from. You have a wonderful way with words and a charming personality. Your sheep are gorgeous and your fiber products are fabulous. Thank you for sharing your adventure and your passion with us.
five nights at freddy's says
The way to decorate your space is very perfect and close to nature.
FNAF WORLD says
WoW looks amazing but its creator is definitely a very meticulous person. FNAF WORLD is one of those great games it has a huge community.
retro bowl says
[email protected]
kanakh says
We are very great full that you are here for us..
Party City Feedback Survey
coloring pages says
Very good article, I have learned and gained a lot of experience for myself. Please continue to contribute such useful articles to us!
Digital Lancers says
B2B Lead Generation Companies in Pune
Website: https://digitallancers.com/services/lead-generation/
Digital Lancers says
Lead Generation Companies in Pune Website: https://digitallancers.com/services/lead-generation/
Beth says
Room 2015 In English Full Movie 720p & 1080p Download Room 2015 Full Movie
Modyalo says
Idle Monster TD Evolved allows players to participate in tower defense battles with tactical gameplay. Take control of hundreds of heroic monsters and join them in defending the world against human invasion. Players take ownership when you unlock all the monsters; their power becomes much stronger when you use items to upgrade them. Zombie Evil Kill 3 mod apk
Drift Hunters says
I am a person who have big passion with books. I think that I need to digest it in my free time.
drift hunters says
This amazing game has something for everyone, whether you’ve never raced before or have done it a lot.
word wipe aarp says
A very interesting topic that I have been looking at, I think this is one of the most important information for me. And I’m glad to read your post. Thanks for sharing!
Luxury doors and windows says
If you’re on the quest to infuse sophistication into your home’s design, then Luxury doors and windows is the keyword that can guide you. I’ve been researching this extensively for my dream home project, and the variety of options available under this category is truly impressive. It’s like unlocking a world of possibilities for your home.
catalogos digitales says
Thanks for sharing I like everything that has to do with decoration
Convertidor de YouTube says
The Convertidor De Youtube is a game-changer! This tool makes it so easy to transform my favorite YouTube videos into the perfect audio format, allowing me to enjoy my favorite tunes anytime, anywhere.
Frances Casteel says
Being a student sometimes resembles navigating a maze of difficulties. In the midst of the thicket of studies, I came across challenges. The compass for navigating was provided by Storyboard That platform (lines, rays, and line segments worksheets). With their visual and interactive approach, StoryboardThat cultivated my understanding in the same way that an expert gardener takes care of a jungalow. Once as twisted as wild vines, the complex ideas became understandable thanks to their interesting platform. My grades brightened, like the colors of a well-kept jungalow. It’s incredible how the correct instruments can turn a dense tangle of difficulties into a verdant knowledge garden.
Jessie Jose says
Being a student sometimes resembles navigating a maze of difficulties. In the midst of the thicket of studies, I came across challenges. The compass for navigating was provided by Storyboard That platform (lines, rays, and line segments worksheets). With their visual and interactive approach, StoryboardThat cultivated my understanding in the same way that an expert gardener takes care of a jungalow. Once as twisted as wild vines, the complex ideas became understandable thanks to their interesting platform. My grades brightened, like the colors of a well-kept jungalow. It’s incredible how the correct instruments can turn a dense tangle of difficulties into a verdant knowledge garden.
walkerchloe says
Fort Myers land survey is dedicated to precision and excellence, focusing on providing surveying solutions for residential properties, commercial developments, and infrastructure projects. Our skilled surveyor team employs state-of-the-art equipment to generate accurate and detailed survey data. Whether you require boundary surveys for property line identification, topographic surveys for mapping site features, construction layout surveys for exact structural placement, or floodplain surveys for evaluating flood risks and obtaining elevation certificates, our team possesses the expertise to fulfill various surveying needs.
emeliasanford says
Watching this brings back so many memories. He has since passed on but it always makes me smile to see these Super Mario gameplays .
emeliasanford says
Watching this brings back so many memories. He has since passed on but it always makes me smile to see these Super Mario gameplays.
Lara James says
Now that our newest book, Jungalow: Decorate Wild, is finally available, go on an adventure of wild creation! Take a deep dive into a world of colorful interiors and sumptuous furnishings as we share the techniques for creating your very own jungle-like retreat. Our dependable online book marketing services are ideal for writers and publishers who want to increase the online visibility and engagement of their works of literature. We make sure your book gets into the hands and minds of enthusiastic readers.
Lara James says
Embark on a journey of untamed creativity with Jungalow: Decorate Wild – our latest book is finally here! Immerse yourself in a world of lush interiors and vibrant design, as we unveil the secrets to cultivating your own jungalow oasis. For authors and publishers looking to amplify the online presence of their literary creations, our trusted Online Book Marketing Services are poised to elevate visibility and engagement, ensuring your book finds its way into the hearts of eager readers.
Jacklin Albert says
I am excited about the release of ‘Jungalow: Decorate Wild,’ inviting you on a creative adventure into vibrant interiors and luxurious furnishings. Discover the secrets to crafting your jungle-inspired sanctuary. Our affordable audiobook marketing services provide tailored solutions for writers and publishers seeking enhanced online visibility. We guarantee your literary masterpiece reaches eager readers, leaving a lasting impact in the online literary landscape.
retro bowl says
Your book, Jungalow: Decorate Wild, is amazing. It is a treasure trove of ideas and tips for creating spaces that are vibrant, eclectic, and personal. You show us how to mix colors, patterns, textures, and plants in a harmonious and playful way. You are a talented and generous designer and writer. I appreciate your work and your spirit.
olivefaye says
Exciting news! The much-anticipated ‘Jungalow: Decorate Wild book has arrived, unleashing a burst of creativity for home decor enthusiasts. Embrace the untamed beauty within your space. And hey, while you’re at it, discover tranquility in other aspects of life, like finding a direct primary care near me. Happy decorating and living!
y2mate says
Y2mate is a popular online tool for converting YouTube videos to MP3 or MP4 formats. With a user-friendly interface, it allows users to easily paste the URL of the desired YouTube video and select the format they prefer. Y2mate swiftly processes the conversion, providing users with downloadable files suitable for offline playback on various devices.
Robertrichard says
Party City created the Party City Feedback Survey, which can be accessed at partycityfeedback, as an online tool to learn more about what its customers think of the company’s goods and services. Visit Partycityfeedback
Krogerfeedback says
thanks you for this kind of information.
Krogerfeedback says
I thought I would find several playlists of metal. But I’m gonna try some anyway :)
Anonymous says
The UPS Store on King Street is fantastic! They offer all the usual UPS services like shipping and packing, but what really sets them apart is their focus on small businesses . They understand the challenges entrepreneurs face and have a whole suite of services to help, from printing and mail solutions to office supplies .
Plus, the staff there are knowledgeable and friendly. They’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the best solution for your needs. If you’re a business owner in Oshawa, this The UPS Store, 470 King St W #6, Oshawa, ON L1J 2K9, Canada is a great resource to have in your back pocket!
marykayintouch usa says
Thank you for sharing this exceptional information; it is greatly appreciated. Not only are your journals very informative and easy to read, but they are also quite humorous.
io game says
Thank you