The Importance of Home (Feat. Modern Map Art)

As I'm sure you've all noticed, I have been gearing up for my upcoming trip to see John for our mini spring break vacation. And even though that is the main thing I am anxiously awaiting, I am also super stoked because once I return, I will be taking on a different type of project, and that would be completely revamping my room (and wardrobe, but more on that later in the next few months). With that being said, though I will still predominately be posting articles about style and beauty, I am excited to announce that in the upcoming weeks my blog will be featuring some more lifestyle and travel pieces too! So, to kick it off, I'm thrilled to share my latest collaboration with the California based company, Modern Map Art, and show you guys the lovely map I received from them. And the map is of no other than my beloved hometown, Pittsburgh.

Modern Map Art

For those of you who have not heard of the company, Modern Map Art, allow me to give you a brief overview. The company began when the site's owner, Jennifer, returned from her honeymoon last year where she was fortunate enough to travel all over the globe. This experience gave Jennifer so much inspiration that she decided to combine her love of travel and her interest in maps into one, and that is how Modern Map Art was born. And I have to say that these nostalgic map prints are an absolutely great decor piece.

Home Is Where The Heart Is

As I have mentioned in some past posts, though I adore travelling and know that eventually I will probably call another city home, Pittsburgh will always hold a special place in my heart. This little city is the one where I spent my childhood, earned my education, and ultimately found my start. This place has shaped me more than I could ever explain and for that it will always be a piece of me, which is why I was so happy to receive a print to commemorate the love of my hometown.

The reason I liked this print so much isn't only because it is a map of my hometown, but because I loved the elements of the city that Jennifer highlighted, specifically the three rivers which are colored gold. The reason I liked this touch wasn't only for the pop of color, but for anyone who is familiar with the 'Burgh, you know that we love our black and gold, which are the colors of our beloved sports teams. I also like how modern yet simplistic the map is, making it an interesting conversation piece when I have guests over. The only thing that I wish was included on this map, would be just some markings as to where the major landmarks are (e.g. Point State Park, PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the inclines to name a few) but perhaps that is just due to my love and nostalgia of the city that I have called home for almost a quarter century. But don't get me wrong, that doesn't make me love this print any less.

To be honest, growing up and throughout college, I wasn't much for decor, I always kept my living space very plain and simple, with barren walls and minimalistic furniture. Perhaps that is because I never felt as grounded in my life as I do now, but as of recently I have definitely acquired an appreciation for small, decorative house plants, as well as meaningful trinkets and art. And though my room is far from where I want it to be (Yep, there is a revamp post coming as soon as it is done!) I felt decorating my one completed wall with this modern map print was a great start! To style this print, I placed it on one of my dressers and surrounded it with a few of my favorite knickknacks (if you can't tell, I really like elephants) and honestly I love waking up every morning and looking at the outline of the city that has molded me into who I am today, it's truly a great feeling.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I am very happy with my print from Modern Map Art and would highly recommend doing business with them if you are looking for a map of one of your favorite cities or a custom creation to decorate your home.

Are there any cities that you have a special connection with? I'd love to chat, so tell me all about the place you call home in the comments below or tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Have an awesome photo of your hometown or city that you wanna show off? Feel free to tag me in a post or on your Instagram story at @StarkRavingChic. Later, babes!

Xx, Bree