Sunday, November 29, 2009

Copenhagen apartment: Warmth & glamour






Love this home office!





The Copenhagen home of Marianne Brandi and Keld Mikkelsen was in the January issue of Living Etc. I love the mixtures of rich textiles, bold stripes a few bright colors and touches of gleaming silver. They are designer and creative director of Day Birger Mikkelsen, the Danish fashion and home company, so many of the cushions and accessories are part of their line. I also think it's incredible that this apartment is part of a purpose-built block! I don't know where you live, but in London, purpose-built housing certainly doesn't normally feature period crown molding, huge windows and high ceilings!
I have always liked Day Birger home accessories that I see featured in magazines, however I can never find where to buy them! It's frustrating that UK magazines feature this brand but they never mention where to shop for the items. Have any of you seen Day Birger Home items ouside of Denmark?



Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Dallas Holiday

Hello! I'm working away, trying to get everything done in a short week; just like most of you are. Although, not totally certain; I think we may be traveling to Dallas for the weekend. I really hope we do because I LOVE Dallas shopping:) In order to find the best sites, I like to check out Style Swoon for great hints. Check it out. Its a great blog! Anyway, I saw an article about a shop called North Star Antiques. This place is going at the top of my list to see.


(Photos via North Star Antiques website)
I'm just hoping they are open Thanksgiving weekend. Please, please be open!!!!!

Invigorating Colour Combinations - Sublime Lime And Fuchsia Pink!


Just because autumn is upon us and the Indian summer has disappeared altogether you can still inject vibrancy and wonderful colour combinations within your home to cheer you up throughout the year!

Colour clashing remain in-trend within the world of interior design. Meaning even those who have what used to be perceived as lack of colour sense, can let their imaginations run wild and mix colours which clash to create stunning and inspiring interiors!

Lime and fuchsia pink are great examples of how two striking colours can look harmonious sitting side by side. The key is to use then in nearly equal proportions so that one colour doesn't grab all the attention! Ready made curtains swept open and held in place with matching tie backs are a great way of creating a frame to a picture, piece of wall art or highlight a display area.

Think theatrical! To create great focal points within your living space, remember ready made curtains don't have to be solely used as window dressings they make the ideal frame to your 'theatre' as well as being a simple way to divide rooms and even conceal untidy alcoves, let the colours scream out your personality!

Image: Belle Maison

Sunday, November 22, 2009

French Stylist Elodie Rambaud







Love these photos of a few little interior spaces styled by Elodie Rambaud. Elodie is also a food stylist. I'm enjoying these below too.




Don't these chocolate covered cakes look delectable? Makes me want a cupcake right now.



Saturday, November 21, 2009

Top Of The World!


My brother sent me this AWESOME video, today. If you are a true-blue movie lover, like I am; I know you will appreciate this collection of famous movie quotes. I think it pretty much covers all of my favorites. I titled this post after my favorite quote and all time favorite movie "White Heat". (Made it Ma, top of the world!) I also want to dedicate all Top Gun and Caddyshack quotes to my husband:)

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Create Clean, Straight Lines Using Matching Curtain Poles


If you have the advantage of having a large dining area maximising the amount of natural light during the day by using sheer curtains creates a striking and informal ambiance to the area.

Having full length sheer curtains which cover two walls will also create the illusion of more space, along with clean lines and chic styles which suit both modern and contemporary homes effortlessly.

Using curtains poles which fit neatly into the corners of the room also provide a style which is well thought out, bringing cohesion to the area. White or ivory sheer curtains such as voiles or faux silk add a touch of contrast against the robust and durable practicalities of a dining room furniture. This juxtaposition enables the curtains to be hung from dark coloured curtain poles to compliment the colour of the the dining suite beautifully and elegantly.

Try mixing sheer lightweight fabrics with chunky furniture to create stunning interiors which have a eclectic mix of textures to add depth with harmony to your dining room. Using full length curtains will also add height to a room as well as being the perfect solution for dressing patio or French doors which are typically found in dinning rooms of traditionally styled homes.

Image: A Life's Design

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Look Up!

Commercial spaces are such a great place to get design inspiration. They are often very bold and adventurous. One of my favorite things in commercial spaces is the attention given to ceilings. No boring white planes of emptiness!
This beautiful Spanish restaurant does an amazing job of making the most of the large expanse above. Its interesting how subtle the rest of the decor is. The intricate angles of the ceiling are such a focal point, the space doesn't need much else. Love it!
I realize most of us can't tear down our ceilings and build an entire new shape, but there can still be a lot done. How about at least painting them a more interesting color than white? Also, add details like antique looking medallions coupled with modern light fixtures. That's a personal favorite!
One more thing! I'm crazy about the hand drawn pictures on the restroom doors. Doors as art? Who knew?

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

A restored Belgian farmhouse






An artistic director and a graphic designer (with 4 children) restored this former farmhouse in Brussells to its current charming state. I'm always attracted to black & white tile floors and tall bookcases! And I love that pearlescent tile shown partially on the wall in the kitchen/dining area- an unusual touch. A few modern elements are mixed in with traditional ones, and it's quite different from typical Belgian-style interiors. (photos from Claudio Tajoli/ Francesca Berte; from Hachette Home Oct. 2009)