Home Design with Kevin Sharkey

Courtesy of Metro West Daily News

Under the care of chief horticulturist Stan Kozak, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which I introduced you to a few weeks ago, has installed scarlet nasturtium vines descending down from the third floor balconies of the Venetian-style palazzo.

This tradition, occurring every April and dating back 100 years, is to celebrate the arrival of spring as well as Isabella Stewart Gardner's birthday (born in April 1840). These flowers are cultivated exactly the same way Isabella Stewart Gardner grew them, which requires nearly 10 months of care in the museums greenhouses before they can be draped over the balconies.

Peter Crowley, chef and owner of The Gardner Cafe has started a more modern tradition in recent years, serving colorful edible flowers in a variety of dishes including in an entree of cold poached Atlantic salmon. He also creates dishes like Chamomile panna cotta with lemon thyme poached pears and nasturtium blossoms for dessert. Yum!

Courtesy of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Living right by the West Side Highway, I've noticed increasing number of bikes riding the path every morning. And with more bikers around now then ever before across the country, it's time someone created a line of fashionable bikes. Martone Cycling Co. has done just that.

Currently, the collection ranges in the staple monochrome colors of white, red, black, silver and gold, all of which were branded by Lorenzo Martone Cyclcing Company with a red chain and a cute handle-bar basket. But the brand plans to launch candy-colored bikes for spring and introduce a line of accessories.

Influenced by the way fashion houses brand their wares, Martone has created a signature "look" for their bikes – the red chain is inspired by red-soled Louboutins. However, they still maintain a technical edge, such as the bike's duomatic gear system. Stylish and technically advanced? Sounds like a winner...

Women's White Bike, Courtesy of Martone Cycling Co.

Women's Gold Bike, Courtesy of Martone Cycling Co.

Men's Black Bike, Courtesy of Martone Cycling Co.

I have a collection of blogs which I am fond of and read often, but I decided this morning that it was time for me to start looking for new online inspiration to add to my daily routine.

What are your best-loved blogs? Who should I be reading in the world of design, interiors, art, fashion, food, and lifestyle?

Give me your recommendations in the comment form below. I look forward to hearing your favorites!

(image via)