Sometimes it requires taking a break from something to realize how much you miss it. For me, Blogging was one of those ‘somethings’.

There has been a lot of change in the last year and unfortunately this site got thrown to the back burner, but never forgotten. It’s a creative outlet I keep coming back to and hopefully it will follow me through the trials and tribulations of my career in Interior Design. I’m back in my home town Ottawa, Canada with my own Interior Design Company and I couldn’t be happier. The last 9 months have been a whirlwind of change, that has opened many doors and let in some of the most influential people in my life. One in particular being a mentor, to whom I credit my growth and success.  Let me just say, it’s not a smooth ride starting a business and it’s been incredibly reassuring to know I have someone to call in moments of sheer panic. Even just to say,” there’s always a solution and don’t worry I’ve been there.” Thank you Tracey!

Now, there’s too much to recap in the last 9 months, so I figure we can just start fresh. Also, please don’t be shy to ask any question your heart desires or make a design request.

I have come to call this particular design the ‘Jewel Box’, it transformed from an ordinary townhouse to a space that breathes ‘Joie de vivre’. Working with a make-up artist who adores everything that is Parisian and ‘screams’ feminine, set the tone for this french, ornamented home.

If you would like help designing a space you will absolutely love, contact me about our design services.

Check out my Pinterest boards for tons of design inspiration that hasn’t yet made it on the blog!

I haven’t done a playlist post in a while and there really isn’t any better day then Friday to roundup the songs that got you through the week.

Some major country tunes…

Lady Antebellum-When you were mine

Luke Bryan-I don’t want this night to end

Luke Bryan-Drunk on you

Jason Aldean-Tattoos on this town

Tim McGraw-better than I used to be

Brooks & Dunn-Ain’t nothing ’bout you

Sugarland-Something More

Carrie Underwood-Good Girl

Green River Ordinance-Dancing Shoes

Darius Rucker-It won’t be like this for long

Rascal Flatts-Banjo

James Taylor-Country Road

Aaron Lines-Waiting for the Wonderful

The Band Perry-Independence

Lady Antebellum-American Honey

Lady Antebellum-Something bout woman

Jessica Andrews-Summer Girl

..last but not least, not a country tune but I love her voice Ellie Goulding- Lights

1.Aged Brick wall; the goal was to make the brick wall look like it was always there. We built out the wainscoting so that it appeared as if the brick went all the way down the wall. Choosing a brick that had an aged look, provided a classic character. Image via Houzz

2.Wainscoting;to add a classic touch of architectural ornamentation, highlighting the brick wall. Image via dailydreamdecor.com

3. Classic Art; Integrating classic art pieces such as the architectural, aged print alongside  gilded, framed mirrors gave the space a rich character.

4. Greenery; the client wanted fresh greens, no fake centrepieces.  We went to Flore, my favourite Montreal florist boutique. They have beautiful floral arrangements and a vast assortment of accessory pieces, not to mention an amazing interior design. Image via awelltraveledwoman.tumblr.com

5. Staircase runner; the sisal look warms an otherwise plain staircase and adds contrast to the white railing. Image via madebygirl.blogspot.com

If you would like help designing a space you will absolutely love, contact me about our design services.

1.A Picture collage of friends and family to personalize the room. Image via foxontherun.tumblr.com

2. Coffee table that will work functionally in the space. Zone

3. A rug to ground the living room. Needs to be  inexpensive, won’t show dirt easily and is durable because she has roomates. Tarnby Ikea

4.Accent Lighting to create a soft mood. Image via lifeisasunset.blogspot.com

5. Pillows! Image via Houzz

***All the accent pieces were sourced from Homesense, or what I prefer to call, my candy store!

The long weekend is here, four days to enjoy friends, family and delicious food. Possibly even an Easter egg Hunt!  I will be going home to Ottawa, and this year my girls have decided to create our own easter festivity. Were going to bake, decorate eggs and of course enjoy some Vino, over many laughs. I hope your weekend is equally as special and surrounded by those you love.

Image via docesabobrinhas.com

Image via b-moviestar.com

Image via motherearthnews.com

Fortunately they have an open space and the only obstacle was the supporting column in the middle of the room which is being removed.

The main space requires an area for the kids to play as well as an office and entertainment room. We decided to leave everything open  apart from the laundry room. Below are the concept boards that provide a feeling and visualization of the future design. Plans, Sketches & Final Photo shoot still to come…

1. As an interior designer, it’s basically your job to read a million magazines, but don’t get me wrong, I love it. The other day I was flipping through one and came across a perfume add for Chanel Mademoiselle. Aren’t perfume adds just great! They remind me of the scratch and sniff stickers, when I was young. Long story short.. it smelt delicious, and so I had to have it. This is definitely now my signature smell.. although I still love Marc Jacobs Lola!

2. Ray Ban aviators.. because they are Classy Chic and cover up my tired eyes!

3.A real Italian Cappuccino, it’s a life source in a tiny cup! I can say without a doubt the best I’ve had in Montreal is at Cafe Della Via ( 244 Rue de Castelnau E)

4. John masters organics Lip calm. Anyone that knows me is aware of my lip condition. I’m allergic to absolutely everything for lips, which means I don’t get to indulge in fancy lip glosses or wear ruby red lipstick. Up until recently vaseline was the only things that worked, until my grandmother bought me this. It’s nice not to have to carry around a tub of vaseline anymore.

5. Brocken Open. Books will always be something I can’t live without, however they change dramatically depending on where I’m at in life. This book is filled with stories to awaken the soul and nurture the mind. I highly recommend it to every human being!

If you would like help designing a space you will absolutely love, contact me about our design services.

This 10,000+square foot Otter Cove Residence by Sagan Piechota Architecture has four en-suite bedrooms, powder room, three-car garage on the upper level. Open plan kitchen, dining and living rooms feature two fireplaces and expansive light exposure from both East and West directions. The lower level consists of offices, en-suite bedroom, screening room, gym, game room, bar & lounge.

Images via Joe Fletcher

To get you in the spirit of the holiday, here is an all natural dye tutorial by Remodelista

For yellow eggs, BHG recommends simmering four ounces of chopped carrot tops in 1 and 1/2 cups of water for 15 minutes; strain and add two teaspoons of white vinegar. A lemon-yellow egg (shown here) is dipped in dye from Oh Joy’s Neon Dip-Dyed Eggs.

A light marbled effect can be achieved by mixing together grape juice and vinegar, according toDreamy Whites. For pale blue-gray eggs, BHG suggests mixing one cup of frozen (or mashed fresh) blueberries with one cup of water, bringing the concoction to room temperature, and then straining.

For pink eggs, cut up a beet and add to four cups of boiling water. Then stir in two tablespoons of vinegar and cool to room temperature before removing beets (recipe courtesy of BHG). Image viaDreamy Whites.

Style at home editor, Erin McLaughlin did an amazing job with this 1887 house, love the choice of blue for the accent colour.

“The interiors are not only a comfort to me, but also a never-ending source of quiet joy and inspiration. A place I can call my own.”

Via Daily Dream decor

Image Via prettystuff.tumblr.com

Image Via Pinterest

Image Via longislandprep.tumblr.com

Image Via google.ca

Image Via housetohome.co.uk

Image Via alexandraangle.com

Image Via bhg.com

Yes this is not a patio but it is the perfect floating device and I want one!

Image Via tumblr.com

This next patio design reminds me of my best friend Meg, she loves to live in a Jungle.

Image Via flickr.com

Image Via traditionalhome.com

Image Via inspiracionline.blogspot.com

Image Via habituallychic.blogspot.com

Image Via homefurniturecatalogs.com

Image Via mackenziehoran.com

Image Via rrantiques.tumblr.com

Image Via loveofthesea.com

Image Via thedecorista.tumblr.com

Image Via housetohome.co.uk

Image Via houzz.com

Image Via greigedesign.blogspot.com

Image Via lh6.ggpht.com

Image Via hisugarplum.blogspot.com

Image Via gypsypurplehome.tumblr.com

Image Via tumblr.com

Image Via desiretoinspire.net

Image Via twighome.com

Image Via southernliving.com

Image Via apartmenttherapy.com

Image Via designsponge.com

Image Via thebookofsecrets.tumblr.com

Image Via aserenelifeforme.blogspot.com

And last but not least, the perfect Movie Night!

Image Via nicety.livejournal.com

Image via bhg.com

Image via google.ca

Images via thebedlamofbeefy.blogspot.com

Image via houseofturquoise.com

Image via johncullen.posterous.com

Image via Pinterest

Image via thepursuitaesthetic.tumblr.com

Image via erineverafter.blogspot.com

Image via blackeiffel.blogspot.com

Image via theamericanlegacy.tumblr.com

Image via stylecuratorblog.com

Image via houzz.com

Image via homedesigndecorating.com

Image via willowfrank.com

Image via google.com

Image via 1kindesign.com

Image via silenceincedars.tumblr.com

And I thought I would finish off this Lake House Round Up with a Canadian Shout out!

Image Via Houzz

bachelor apartment design

Image via Nate Berkus Show

When a living space is small, it is especially important to choose the furnishings wisely. Try dual purpose furniture and create a transitional space, which can be adapted to suit different needs.

Instead of compromising on a living room space try integrating a daybed into the design. It is the perfect solution for a small bachelor apartment. Set against a wall and dressed up with stylish pillows, it now becomes a sofa. Place a storage ottoman, with a tray on top  or coffee table in front of the bed to complete this look.

Image via coastalliving

Image via prudentbaby

Utilize additional storage where permitted, for instance, create additional storage under the bed by using baskets or containers.

Image via theletteredcottage

Style it up, by adding a personal touch with wall art, a picture collage or a mirror above the bed. Installing a shelf is another intelligent way to display pictures and art.

Image via alifesdesign.blogspot

Image via ballarddesigns

Image via homegoods

Image via flickr

Now, to address the date night issue. Round tables, create a better flow of space and can be used in this situation to act as a night stand as well as a dining table. Placed beside the bed and dressed up with a stylish lamp and some books, it works as a night stand, but when paired with a set of small chairs it becomes a romantic bistro table.

Benches and ottomans with hidden compartments are a great way to address extra seating, additional storage or the need for a laundry hamper. Placed at the foot of the bed, it is conveniently located, instead of in the way.

With these tips and some personal touches , you are surely on your way to creating a beautiful home.

Here a few tricks to making a small space feel open and comfortable while still dipping into the colour pot.

1) Flooring

A continuous floor in an open area will visually expand the space. For example; it is advisable to continue the same flooring throughout an open plan concepts where the kitchen, dining and living room are all open to one another. This does not mean that area rugs are out of the question. On the contrary, area rugs is what will help ground each space, when the floor is all the same, and the layout is open.

houseandhome

Image via notahousebutahome

Image via hubimg

Image via homefurnituremag

Image via chictip

2)Paint

To create a cohesive, open space , try painting the walls in one solid colour. For example Swiss Coffee (OC-45) by Benjamin Moore  is a warm white that will work as a neutral canvas. Or try Revere Pewter (HC-172), also by Benjamin Moore, which offers more depth than the white, while still maintaining that neutral palette.

Swiss Coffee (OC-45) by Benjamin Moore

Revere Pewter (HC-172)

3)Lighting

“It is important to have a variety of different light sources. The ‘magic trio’ includes: general lighting, which can be your ceiling fixture; task lighting, such as table lamps or pendants, and accent lighting, such as wall sconces. Light fixtures should be equipped with the maximum permitted voltage and placed on a dimmer for optional adjustment. When considering a ceiling light, frosted glass fixtures and linen shades provide a soft, diffused light, with a good coverage.” RonaMag Article

4) Seating

When choosing flexible seating, slip covered sofas are a great choice. White is classic and with the slipcover option there is less worry, since it can be removed and washed. Choosing a monotone sofa will offer the opportunity to dress up the  piece with patterned, colourful cushions and maybe even a throw blanket. Then bring in foot stools that can serve the dual purpose of extra seating and accent pieces.

Image via madebygirl.blogspot

5) Table Talk

Round tables allow for better flow in a small space. Also take into consideration the design of the table. In a small spaces, storage is key, thus having an extra bottom shelf on a coffee table can hide some of the necessary clutter and leave the top to be dressed and styled with colourful accessories.

Ikea's DOCKSTA Dining table, white $229.00

Zone's SOLA Coffee table

6)Smart Materials Picks

“Mirrors serve two purposes: to make a space appear larger and, secondly, to reflect existing light. In addition, mirrors are not confined to the traditional use of adorning a wall. There are a multitude of furniture pieces finished in mirror, such as coffee tables, end tables, dressers etc.

Glass works in a similar fashion to mirror. Although it does not have the same degree of reflection, its translucent quality provides an open feeling.” RonaMag Article

7)”Accessories are the details that complete a look. They have a powerful impact when done right. In order to make a room appear larger and brighter, light coloured accessories, floral arrangements and reflective materials are a must.” RonaMag Article

Image via spearmintdecor

This is my Valentine’s gift to everyone… Happy Valentine’s Day!

If you would like help designing a space you will absolutely love, contact me about our design services.

Images via Pinterest

At the office we are currently working on a large renovation, taking on the entire first floor, where the clients are remodeling the bathroom, kitchen, living and dining room. The style is our Forte, ‘Hamptons’. Making the colour scheme pretty self evident; Blue & white with a combination of lots of natural materials.

Before starting any project it’s important to get inspired. I often use Pinterest to search and gather inspiration.

Cedar Shingles always inspire a ‘Hamptons style’. I would like to a evoke a similar feeling you can get from the exterior and bring it into the interior; light, fresh, natural, ocean breeze, relaxing.

Because this isn’t actually a house in the Hampton’s I want to bring in some classy chic elements, possibly layering a jute rug with a stylish patterned white & blue rug.

Adding pops of Green into a design provides a fresh element and plants definitely do the job. Broad-leaf ficus trees are sprouting up in stylish homes everywhere. They look great paired with a large sea-grass basket.

In order to achieve that classy look I am thinking of pairing the tree with a chinoiserie planter

Adding architectural elements enriches the space and the value of the home. We will be modifying the fireplace, adding ornamentation and a larger mantel as well as built ins on either side, similar to the image below. This will create a focal point in the living room.

Mirrors above the fireplace are pretty common but I love the look of a mantel to ceiling mirror encased in moulding like  the one below.

A designer who I admire for her art of layering and warm comfortable style is Sarah Richardson. She combine fabrics and patterns that on their own may not be what you would choose but all together look great.

Inspiration can come from many different things, such as an outfit. Fashion has always been a good guide for combining different patterns and colours. I love accessorizing and layering my outfits as much as I do my Interior designs.

If you would like help designing a space you will absolutely love, contact me about our design services.

Images via Pinterest

Everyone loves a great closet, and if they don’t, well they should.  I thought this was a genius attic conversion. When there isn’t enough room to have a spacious closet, use the attic. It would definitely be a fun reno.

I thought I would share a little closet inspiration and of course include some wise words from the owner of the official closet, Carrie Bradshaw, “I like to keep my money where I can see it, hanging in my closet.”

Those words are true for many women

Images via Pinterest

Spending everyday designing other people’s spaces is a dream but it leaves me feeling unsatisfied with my own apartment. It would be nice to be rich and have the money to complete the entire apartment design, but unfortunately that is not the case! Having a restricted budget does have it’s benefits, you have to get creative and be patient. Piece by piece the design will come together and usually each element has a nostalgic story to accompany it.

This weekend I wanted to style up my home office which shares the same space as the living room. When I’m working I prefer to have my desk face into the space rather then a wall. In order to ground the office area I decided to create a photo collage vertically extending the entire length of the wall.  Since frames can be pricey I decided to check out the dollar store, I was in luck! They had an assortment of black frames.  Using my sketching paper as the passe partout, and playing with different scales of pictures in a variety of frame sizes created a beautiful gallery wall.

For the Cork board I took a frame I previously bought from Ikea that’s glass broke and found cork at the dollar store. I plan to spray paint the frame black, to look more cohesive.  The majority of the pictures are black and white but I threw in a couple with colour to add some life.  In case you noticed, the chair is a Thonet bent wood bistro chair that someone in my neighbourhood was throwing out. Lucky for me I now have a pair of beautiful Thonet Chairs for Free, sometimes it pays off to be a garbage picker!

I am in the midst of putting together a website for Blanc Marine Living. Best design firm ever.. or soon to be! The site will showcase our designs and style.  Until then I thought a little before and after action might be fun. We suggested the idea of a bathroom face lift to a client of ours. For a couple hundred bucks the bathroom can go from outdated and uninteresting to relaxing and stylish.

Key Notes for this project:

Paint the dark cabinetry white

Change the Light to a softer fixture-We used a Home Depot school house light

Add light accessories to brighten up the space.

Sometimes Garden type accessories add an aged, natural look that sets the tone for  a relaxing space. It makes complete sense if you really think about it. Garden’s are a relaxing environment, so why not evoke that same feeling by using similar elements; flowers, touches of green, planters, statues, etc.

Rolled white towels are a style trick, they psychologically create a fresh feeling.

Glass is a good finish, being transparent it fakes the feeling of more space and creates reflections.

Hardware is another way to revamp out of date cabinetry. Lee Valley has lots of great hardware, otherwise I love sourcing from antique shops, recycled warehouses and flea markets. I come across some amazing finds.

These are some Before Shots

Paint the Dark Cabinetry

Change the Light Fixture

Style the Shelving and Paint White

After the cabinetry was painted and the light fixture installed came the day of shopping. Homesense is my go to for inexpensive accessories that can bring style into any space.

Before the Day of shopping, look how a couple hundred bucks can truly add style. The light is sourced from Home Depot and gives a soft glow because of the type of glass fixture.

After the Day of Shopping.

A touch of Green, Fresh rolled White Towels in a Wicker Basket

White Artichoke statues on both sides create symmetry

Flowers in an antique clay style water pitcher, Silver frame with linen Passe Par tout and White rolled towels.

The flowers will be trimmed to create an overflowing bouquet and of course all the tags will be removed! This is just some teaser images before the site goes up and the official shots are taken.

Glass apothecary jars to be filled with bath salts and the other soap. Candles to set a romantic mood.

The Planters will be filled with green Topiaries to create a relaxing garden environment.

Come January Blanc Marine Living will have the final shots

This weekend I can’t say I did much work, but a little rest and relaxation is exactly what was needed.  Living in Montreal has many benefits, among them is Food, and this weekend I got to taste some of the best food I ever had. Tuck Shop is a small restaurant in the neighbourhood that serves magic for your taste pallet.  The decor was eclectic with colourful seating and a large rustic chandelier.  Overall a good mix of style including; industrial pieces and high gloss white brick tiles.

I even loved their christmas decor and tried to snap a quick pic with my phone, but it doesn’t do it justice.  The window planters are layered with evergreens and vertical sticks with bright orange berries, which look bright red in my image.

Made by an accessories company called vagabond this runner is the perfect fit for my front entrance. The Zig Zags are black and the filler is natural sisal which makes this piece durable and easy to clean.

I used wire cutters to trim the stems, and with a little patience and a lot of bending they eventually snapped off, creating the perfect fit for the vase. Unfortunately these little projects always ruin my nails, yes I am a girl!

The final result a beautiful and luscious bouquet of hydrangeas.

I found myself inspired but unable to communicate through my blog these last few months. Originally this site was designed to inspire others and create a platform from which I could showcase beautiful designs and release my own creativity/thoughts.  I guess I just got caught up in my life’s transition into the working world, and my nine to five became all encompassing.  Don’t get me wrong, I love my job but as someone wise once said, “everything in moderation.” The wheels were turning but I wasn’t using my regular mediums to express my ideas, instead everything stayed at the office or garbled up in my head. I love this site and blogging so I am making it a priority to write in a casual spirit, and share my passion once again.

Recycled

Cost efficient

Functional

Resourceful

and..Design worthy to create a beautiful space!

hope you take this option into consideration.. it definitely fits into the budget!

Images sourced from my Pinterest account

Get the simple pattern and step by step for these Audrey inspired capes at Project Run & Play and for the birdcage tutorial go to Simple Simon & Company

This post goes out to Nena Bobena who is looking for some “lens love” for her new room.

She is crazy for teal and has always had a room fully painted teal so this time we are trying to use teal accents instead of the prior.  She loves the ocean .. perhaps because it’s teal . I found this lovely photo below by Susannah Tucker, an artist on Etsy and used the image as the center of the design.

The photograph has a beautiful array of colours and gives a feminine touch.  For the floor I have used a natural jute rug and overlaid a geometrical patterned rug to create a variety of textures and soften the look of the pattern. The curtains add a nice touch of colour and fall in a soft draped look.  I changed the dresser pulls for a more vintage look and finally suspended above the bed is a natural linen drum shade.

or below

perhaps a white lamp on the dresser.. which one do you prefer?

and below

some more inspiration off my pinterest boards.. gotta love teal.

Lets start with colour palettes

And now open the door to designs..

but first i want this clutch.. its practical for drawings right

..basically a write off

a little music please and were ready to roll

different tones of green work well with teal as you can see.

The pastel tones work well in brightening this place up.

A darker more blue shade of teal creates a warm lounge area

True vintage

Instead of just a closet in the spare room look what you can do. For all the crafty folks out there!

This Hampton’s Style living room uses natural materials like the jute rug and window shades to enhance the blue furnishings.

Oversized pillow accents are a good tool to use when adding pops of colour

Because I thought it was cute!

First off this picture makes me want to bring back summer and secondly those cushions don’t only make those chairs 100% more comfortable, they look great too!

And look at the fabric table cloth, what a genius way to hide any old outdoor table.

The light teal paint gives this bedroom a relaxing environment and pairs well with all the soft tones in the furnishings

With a bolder brighter teal on the walls it calls for bolder patterns and styles in this vibrant antique living room

I am a fan of stripes and adore the two chairs. I will have to say the lamp is a little odd but maybe it will grow on me.. we will see

One last piece of inspiration.. a giant turquoise ring!

the end

This particular design compliments both the masculine and feminine style. The vanity is composition consists of a glossy lacquer desk, upholstered armchair and glamour mirror, perfect to adorn the queen in any home. While the bed is delicate in scale it’s strong in geometrical forms and compliments the linear pattern in the rug.  A black ottoman is placed at the end of the bed draped with a white woven throw blanket creating additional seating. The window treatments remain light and soft, combining a opaque cotton with beautiful pleating and a translucent mesh.

This weeks beats strum to the rhythm of my heart, which means yep…were going country. Click on links below for Youtube videos

The Band Perry- If I die young

Zac Brown Band- I play the Road

Sugarland- Stuck like glue

Country Strong- Country strong… if you haven’t seen the movie ..and you love country..well get on that!

Country Strong- Give into me

Chester- God damn your beautiful

Shania Twain- Today is your day … The video is so sweet, Shania is such a natural beauty and it shows

Darius Rucker- Don’t think I don’t think about it

There hasn’t been much focus for designing masculine spaces on the site thus far.  So I thought I would do a continuation of the last Bachelor Talk since the feedback was very appreciative.  With less talk and more show, here are some inspirational spaces with masculine design appeal.

Below are a couple more colour palettes that can work well to evoke a masculine feel.

All images via Pinterest.. if you haven’t signed up for the site do it!!!!

For any one that knows me they clearly know how much I love Robin Hood ( my bike) and yes that’s the actual name. I found her on craigslist for $60 bucks, dected her out with a whicker basket and she was ready to go. Since then she has been my transportation just about everywhere, from weekly trips to the market, cafes, school, bars and anywhere else I want to go. There are so many benefits to having a bike way beyond the fact that you’re cutting back on your carbon footprint.

.. and lets not forget double riding when good times call for it..

I am all about the vintage urban riders and one of my favourite brands is Creme Cycles.  Manufactured in Europe, Creme designs commuter bikes with the help of an expert steel frame maker from Japan. I adore the way they combine the street bike style with the relaxed urban feel.  I love promoting biking and think everyone should give it a try, the benefits are undeniably positive so hopefully I have inspired some of you.  Happy riding and check out their site for all the different styles and colour choices, believe me their are plenty!

Via design sponge, pinterest

A while back Architectural Digest featured a spacious 3,300 sq.ft Manhattan loft. Greeted with thirteen foot tall mahogany doors with a knocker that could wake the dead. Who in the world lives there you ask, why, King Leonidas of Sparta also known as oo Gerard Butler. Designed by movie set designer Elvis Restaino, the two story loft has a richness of character; from plaster walls chipped and mottled with age, massive columns supporting limestone lions and a copious amount of crystal chandeliers suspended around the space.  He was able to create a space that channeled a classical elegance with a bigger then life masculine design.

And the stud himself to wrap up the fantasy portion.. he’s butter

Next here is an example of a before and after, from an uninspired bachelor pad to a sleek and sophisticated space. Via Shelter Pop

I believe most men understand just as much as women the benefits of having a space that is designed to cater and accommodate the things they enjoy in life.  They may just not want to spend the time searching through furniture stores comparing prices and contemplating choices.  That is why it’s sometimes ideal to hire a designer to ask the pertinent questions, find you the great deals and create a space you can call home.

In this particular design the owner wanted a space that would feel comfortable and spacious with all the amenities to host friends and be functional  for his daily life.  The designers took into consideration his needs and hobbies and created an extra nook with seating for him to practice guitar while leaving the living room open to kitchen for extra seating and easy conversation.  The kitchen feels open with lots of storage and a multipurpose island/table to be used as needed. They also added one of his artwork pieces on the wall for a punch of colour and personal touch.

One way to make a dramatic change in your space with minimal cost is paint so lets talk colour.

When choosing a colour palette for the space remember to keep in mind the size of the space and the mood you are trying to achieve. In the case above they chose a great colour palette to provide a spacious atmosphere while adding in tones of blue, grey and orange to breathe some life into the space.

Here are a couple easy to remember tips for colour selection

1. Dark colours make a space appear smaller but don’t be afraid to use them when trying to achieve a bold statement. The contrast with lighter, brighter furnishing can be astonishing.  As seen below, this bedroom used a dark colour palette but opened up the space using a mirror and light accent accessories.

2. If you have big windows and an open concept layout  a dark colour palette can make a space feel warm and comfortable without making it feel small.

2. Accent Walls are a great way to incorporate Colour without over powering a room. A trick to integrating your accent colour is to use accessories within the room that tie in that colour.

Below is another example of how you can adapt the idea of an accent wall to and accent door.  Using an old barn wood door and finishing it in the colour of your choice can be a unique compliment instead of your traditional door.

This can also be done in more neutral/natural tones, complimenting a neutral accent wall in the proceeding room as shown below

3. Low contrast will make a room appear larger for example in smaller spaces you may want to go with similar tones on the walls ceiling and floor, as to not create break lines.  As you can see below this bedroom design uses white on all surfaces to elongate the vertical and horizontal lines of the space

Here are some great colour palettes to consider for your space. Try choosing one or two for the walls and then integrating the other tones into furnishings, fabrics and accessories.

Above: The Burnt orange tone can be used as an accent colour while the more neutral tones are ideal for larger application such as multiple walls ex: Hallways and larger furnishings. This colour palette evokes fall colours and relaxing environments.

Above: The vibrant yellow tones work well for accents while again the neutrals will be more ideal for larger surface application.

Above: This colour palette is fresh and light and can work very well in smaller spaces.

Above: This green colour palette also provides a light and fresh environment using soft neutral tones

Above: For a more vibrant palette you may want to try using these complimentary accent colours. Eggplant and pea green are amazing complimentary accent colours.  Also if you are interested in using a darker colour palette to create a bold effect try using eggplant on larger surface ex Walls and accenting it with the pea green and or vibrant yellow for a truly amazing result.

Above: Even if we are talking bachelor pads here don’t feel the need to discriminate against more traditionally female thought of tones. Purple done is the right tones like the one above can provide a warm touch to a cool palette while still maintaining that masculine appeal.

Above: This colour palette evokes more of a vintage look. The tones are soft but can still have that wow effect. Using the cream in conjunction to the deep grey for walls and working in the green yellow and hints of coral in artwork or furnishing accents can create a comfortable and spacious environment with just the right amount of colour.

Above: Red is often a preferential  colour chosen by my male clients. This particular palette plays on complimentary tones within the grey spectrum to create a warm but fresh environment. Green is red’s complimentary colour but we don’t want to get carried away and go all christmas theme, so it is important to choose the right shades. Here we have a grey green to compliment the red accent colour.

Try the following ideas to introduce masculine details into your home –

1) The Before mentioned colour palettes. Dark and rich tones such as brown, purple, black, reds, deep greys and blues tend to bring out more of a masculine impact.  That being said it is most often suggested to pair those deep tones with more neutral flooring and or walls to balance the decor.

2) Raw, Natural and Industrial materials – Wood, stone, brick, steel, symbolize rustic elements and outdoors. With the use of these materials for flooring, walls, furniture and or accessories you are sure to evoke masculinity. Less refined furniture with strong lines can also be a good device to add masculine touches. In addition exposed industrial ceilings can be a good complimentary element in bringing character and style to the space.

3) Strong geometry and lines –  Contemporary minimalistic interiors reflect masculinity much in the same way a minimalist tailored suit can.  Sometimes the best advice is “Keep it Simple Stupid,” so if you desire to create a tailored look with strong lines make sure to keep the space de cluttered as to create strong lines that draw your attention.

4) Light  – Since masculine designs tend to be rich and dark, it is essential to provide good light sources. Utilize your natural light to provide a healthy glow to the space.  In conjunction to the natural light it is advisable to invest in adequate artificial light sources.

5)Organization – is key… in maintaining the effect of strong lines and rich tones. Try using the rule of threes when displaying artwork and collectibles to keep things looking organized and clean.

And finally remember that although these are good guidelines to follow designing isn’t a cookie cutter sort of thing so don’t be afraid to stray a little bit and get creative!

Now for some Inspiration…

And this last one is just for fun, for those of you living outside the box

With help from friends and neighbors, they turned the side of an abandoned house in New Orleans into a giant chalkboard, inviting people to share what they want and value in life.  It basically became a giant bucket-list.  Before I Die is a question that forces people to reflect on what is important to them and think towards the positive.

Made with primer, chalkboard paint, stencils, spray paint, chalk. Self-initiated with permission from the property owner, residents of the block, the neighborhood association’s blight committee, the Historic District Landmarks Commission, the Arts Council, and the City Planning Commission. February 2011 (with more to come!) If you are a publication and would like a press kit with high-res photos, contact us.

Via Candy Chang

Your daily dose of design from a to z

…design stamped is a site for anyone and everyone who enjoys the art of creating spaces that reflect their ideas, feelings or even experiments of the moment. There is an infinite amount of design possibilities and a world full of creative people continuously coming up with innovative ideas. With an open mind we can come to discover, with the potential of loving or hating a wide range of styles but ultimately being aware that they exist. This is a space for people to share in a passion and help educate or be educated in the world of design from A to Z.

Via Lovely Package

There are quite a few custom closet stores and I have listed just a few around my area.

California Closets

Muskoka Cabinet Company

Deslaurier

Glen Roberston

Stil Design

Now that you have a few sources lets get on to the good stuff.. the visuals the inspiration and the fantasy!

To start the ball rolling I had to show you a screen shot of one of the most famous custom closets known to any Sex and the City fan.  The white palette silver accents and glass doors display your clothes in style giving this lucky girl a one of a kind fantasy closet.

Above: Kelly Wearstler’s closet,  also check out her interior design work. Not only is she beautiful but her designs share the same elegance. The closet above is done in a neutral palette allowing the floor to showcase a geometrical pattern creating contrast and complimenting the unique shape of the window.

Above Christina Aguilera models her bookshelf design of a shoe closet, done in a very hollywood glamour sort of way. Using bold colours and rich fabrics this room is fit for a starlet of her stature.

The closet above may not have the custom millwork similar to the others but I do enjoy the idea of having a gold tone mirrored custom desk in my closet.  Not only would it be functional to fold clothes and apply make up but it can also be a great focal point instead of the traditional island seen in many closet designs.

And I’ve saved my favourite for last. I know you may not agree but I am a rustic girl at heart and wood always gets me.  I like the boutique style rod display, making everything extremely accessible and in view.  The top shelf works efficiently for shoe storage and the plush rug provides that comfort and cozy atmosphere.  The antique vanity and chandelier style up the room but the best part is you can easily do this yourself if you have a spare room, without having to spend a fortune!

Crate shelving

 Via www.designsquish.com

Stacked vintage old wooden apple storage crates

Via www.kristybishop.com

Shipping crate as bike basket

Via www.designsquish.com

Hanging wall shelves

Via www.designsquish.com

Reclaimed crates as shelving

Via www.cocoprogetto.wordpress.com

Reclaimed wood stools by Edwards Moore. Made from discarded wood from various sources. Sanded and finished with linseed oil, putty and wax.

Dog bowl holder

Via www.theviolethours.typepad.com

Via www.bedifferentactnormal.com

Via www.theviolethours.typepad.com

Crate furniture

Via www.design-tale.blogspot.com

On the same note one of my girlfriends was just vacationing in Hawaii, looking for a summer home.  I found myself to be quite envious, so I decided to research designs in Hawaii and I came across a home designed by one of my faves, Kundig. Olson Kundig Architects were given the challenge of constructing a highly functional and durable home that will weather the tropical storms and strong ocean winds.  Located close to a well-known surfing spot, Slaughterhouse Beach House expands the concept of a traditional surfing hut with three connected huts – general living quarters, guest suites, and a main sleeping area. The structure’s walls are constructed from rammed earth. In this process, different local earth-based mixtures are packed together, and the resulting striated layers are visible both inside and outside the building. The walls blend in with the surroundings, are low maintenance, virtually fireproof, and a strong barrier to sound. The roofs share a resemblance to sails and are designed in such a way to follow the patterns of the wind. The house design highlights the incredible view with ribbon windows extending along the vertical facades.  The windows are designed on a hydraulics system and when lifted the house forms more of an open concept pavilion exposed to the natural elements.

via Archithings

Image above: Marion’s black & white side table redo

Image above: Lauren’s sophisticated side table

Image above: Elle’s inventive salvaged side table

Image above: D*S reader Jody created this amazing industrial-style side table out of old wooden drawers.

Image above: Amanda’s rustic entryway table

Before

After

Image above: Three Men and a Lady’s bed side tables

Before

After

Image above: Three Men and a Lady’s entryway Walmart table makeover

Before

After

Image above: Three Men and a Lady’s craigslist dresser

Image above: Style Files DIY wood table

Image above: Matsutake DIY side table

Image above: Home Depot tutorial DIY glass coffee table

Image above: Bromeliad DIY Ikea Lack to Parson Cube

Image above: Plastolux DIY Eero Saarinen Tables

My goal is not to design a traditional or modern version of a  Portuguese restaurant but rather to infuse the “Portuguese elements ” I’ve mentioned as my inspirations. The combination of finishes creates a modern environment with just the right rustic touches to provide a warm and inviting ambiance. The restaurant has an open floor plan which consists of multiple split levels creating dynamic focal points.

The design caters to an upscale restaurant with  a menu that will focus mainly on European/Mediterranean, market fresh, seasonal produce served in an equally light and unpretentious manner.

Above: Main Floor Plan

Above: Mezzanine Level

Above: Rendered view of  Main dining area

Above: Rendered view of Mezzanine area

Above: Maquette Axonometric view

Below you can see a collection of images which inspired my restaurant design. The colours, materials and innovative furniture designs in juxtaposition to the old and new, is where I drew my main inspiration.

Above: Dogmatic, Gourmet Sausage System, New York City- inspiration for restaurant bar.

Above: Wire-frame axonometric view of the restaurant bar which can be seen on the mezzanine level.

Above: Neoline Chandelier by Boa Design

It is in my opinion that a design should encompass not only the architectural structure and finishes but also the fine details.  I have chosen a selection of modern dishware consisting of Modern Floating Glassware, Ceramics, Goa Flatware by Cutipol

With a little bit of brainstorming and our own personal preferences we have come up with some principal ideas.

1. Integrate a farmers market to encourage the purchase of local and seasonal produce. We are both market lovers and have enjoyed the benefits of Jean Talon market in Montreal, Byward Market in Ottawa and Granville Island Market in Vancouver.

2. Mindfulness Center. I have been fortunate enough to travel east and experience other cultures ways of living which emphasize the importance of nourishing the body as well as the mind. In the last few decades we have been exposed to the positions of yoga’s physical practice and but it hasn’t been until recently that there is a development of consciousness towards the mindfulness practices.  We are striving to create a center which offers multifunctional spaces where educational as well as physical practices can be pursued for a variety of age groups.  It is in our opinion that western culture is conducive to a more individualistic lifestyle and we would like to revert back to a community oriented mindset.

We would love to hear your feed back on what you consider the key aspects to living a healthy lifestyle and what programs a community center could offer to help you achieve that?

For today’s post I came across this boutique style restaurant/cafe/market on Remodelista. The design concept encompasses some of  the main elements we wish to offer in our center.  Located in Marylebone the Natural Kitchen offers fresh produce and meal items alongside a cafe. So you can enjoy a tea break and pick up a few dinner items. Go to The Natural Kitchen for more information.

As seen in the Capital Kitchen design Natural Kitchen uses similar finishes to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

An eclectic use of vintage style wood chairs alongside Parisian style tables with painted white bases and walnut finish tops creates a warm environment. The warm colour palette compliments the natural arrangements of indigenous grasses and flowers.

I especially love the crate boxes and wine barrels displaying the produce.

The pendant lights provide an industrial element into the mix. Similar style pendants can be found at Barn Light Electric.

To start the ball rolling we have this Cafe/Restaurant style design located on the outskirts of Melbourne, Capital Kitchen‘s design combines rustic and industrial elements with a few modern touches throughout to produce a functional, warm and inviting atmosphere. Designed by Australia-based Mim Design (“We were going for a modern country farmhouse feel,” the designers say), the interiors feature rustic timber floors, exposed brick walls, and sleek modern Carrara counters. For more information, go to Capital Kitchen.

Above: The cafe includes an open concept dining area. The main dining chairs add the industrial element finished in white to compliment the farmhouse look. Marais a chair designed by Xavier Pauchard for Tolix available at design within reach

Above: A mix of modern housewares is on offer. I find this style of boutique cafe is becoming very popular and for good reason. It’s fun to browse kitchenware amongst the aromas of coffee beans and  food.

Above: This has to be my favourite shot. The combination of light and darker woods separated by a sleek Carrara marble counter, is stunning. The white Caravaggio Pendants (available from Y Lighting) provide a simple clean and modern ceiling ornamentation.

Above: A modern farmhouse sink adds a domestic feel and is complimented by the upholstered armchairs providing additional comfortable seating.

Above: Long tables on wheels provide a multifunctional space, offering a multitude of space and seating arrangements.  The movable tables are complimented with Tolix stools. Marais Counter Stool designed by Xavier Pauchard for Tolix available at design within reach. The beam ceiling design plays on a modern coffered ceiling style and adds that extra element of design to the cafes structure.

Above L: The shop signage is painted directly on the exterior brick. Above R: Corner seating with folding windows.  What impresses me the most is the combination of materials that work so well together. The aged brick, marble, light and dark woods with painted as well as unfinished steel together achieve achieve a warm and aesthetically beautiful environment. This design encourages me to not be afraid of trying different finish combinations.

Via Remodelista

# 1 on my play-list currently is Adele, who I discovered off  One Tree Hill’s soundtracks  featuring Hometown Glory.  I love her new album, it’s got a lot of great tracks but I would have to say my favourite is Rolling in the Deep.

On another note, my dad was ranting and raving about this new show called Voice so I had to check it out last night. He was right .. it’s amazing!  Just reminds me of how many talented people there are out there and since today’s post is about Adele I think this one contestant Vicci Martinez  has done her proud. Check out Vicci’s rendition of Rolling in the Deep.

http://youtu.be/Iliwh-w6SIg

As I mentioned in the Cram time post I will be showcasing my final restaurant design and I have offered the opportunity to other students at my school to show off their work.   So hopefully they will take me up on my offer after our week off.  To start off the expose I am proud to present to you “willow’s”.

A restaurant design that encompasses 3 fundamental elements;

Starting with the first element of Functionality and Comfort for both the clients as well as employees.

Achieved through;

1) Circulation & Spacing

2) Furnishing

Having an alternative entrance and exit for staff as well as loading supplies and garbage removal increases efficiency of performing restaurant tasks while prioritizing the main entrance for patrons only. Your first impression entering the restaurant is derived from the long corridor forming the bar.  The bar sits 10 people comfortably with a full wall shelving unit along the adjacent wall. When entering the restaurant you’re first greeted by the hostess who can either show you to your table or  if none are available provide you with a drink and space to rest it comfortably along the  shelving unit.  Proceeding into the main dining room to your left are tables of two with their own intimate area, followed by a stationary custom built banquette, separating the tables of four. The tables of four can be rearranged for larger group seatings as well as handicap accessibility.

The main dining room has two principle openings, the first allowing access to the washrooms. Starting with the mens, followed by the women’s and at the end of the hall the adapted washroom with larger spacing.

The second principle opening is dual functional, acting as an emergency exit hallway as well as entrance and exit to the kitchen.  Having a hallway for the entrance and exit to the kitchen negates the need for kitchen doors allowing easy access and exit when serving.  Once in the kitchen to left for functionality purposes we have the dishwashing area and to the right a service station where employees can perform restaurant tasks such as rolling cutlery. Proceeding along the main path of circulation we then have the expediting area for servers to easily pick up their orders.  The office/locker room and staff washroom sits at the end of the main path of circulation intersecting with the staff entrance and exit.  Avoiding the necessity of walking through the entire kitchen when first arriving at work.  Continuing down the staff entrance and exit path, to the left we have the dry storage followed by the garbage room, refrigerator and freezer area running along the exterior wall for easy removal as well as loading of supplies.

At the end of the kitchen exit and entrance hall we have an emergency stairwell that can be utilized for service to the mezzanine dining area prioritizing the staircase at the end of the main dining room solely for patron use.

Once reaching the mezzanine area the circulation is vast occupied by tables of four which can be rearranged for larger group seatings as well as events.  At the end of the dining area recessed into a floating wall is a service station spanning the entire length.  The station sits at 3 ft. with an above section reserved for open and closed shelving showcasing wine.  Similar to the open and closed display design from Merus Winery shown below

The second aspect of the first element integrates the aesthetics of furnishings with the functionality of comfort.

The main dining chair is inspired by the Wishbone Chair above but upholstered with a similar fabric shown in the image below to achieve a higher level of comfort.

You can also see the upholstered dining chair in the rendered image below of the dining room looking towards the entrance and bar.

The same was done for the Natur stool using a light beige fabric as shown in the rendered images below.

The stationary custom built banquette shown below was inspired by another Uxus design this one being from Restaurant Ella Dining Room & Bar Design.

I used a laminated bamboo plywood to mimic the solid wood appearance and a similar tone grey fabric to upholster the banquette seating.  I was able to achieve a beautiful natural appearance with a lower banquette in order to maintain a clear view across the main dining room.

The Second Element

Inspired by an iconic architect Mies Van Der Rohe among others, I wished to achieve that feeling of a barrier free environment.  Van Der Rohe is famous for using a single material streaming from indoors to outdoors with minimal division creating that essense.

Above the Barcelona Pavilion Designed by Mies Van Der Rohe for the 1929 International Exposition

As you can see from this rendered axonometric view I have utilized similar techiniques to that of my predecessors to achieve a sheltered outdoor environment.  First I have extended the horizontal lines by using the concrete tiles to create a terrace. Concrete tiles- a durable choice of material for our environment.  Second I have extended the vertical lines to create a minimalist transparent division.  The reason behind the group of 3 smaller rectangle windows at the top is to produce better air circulation allowing hot air to rise and escape.

The 2nd aspect to the Second Element is the willow tree integrated into a storm theme. Starting with the Storm;

I thought it was fitting to locate the drama/turbulence of a storm into the bar area. I was inspired by the Jing Restaurant design in Singapore shown below

I wanted to create this sculptural ceiling structure to mimic the essence of rolling thunder.  In order to do so I need to create a long linear channel to achieve the full effect.

As you can see from this wire-frame axonometric view I have extended the rolling thunder to commence outdoors and run through the entire bar corridor in a linear mode. Also shown in a rendered version below.

There has always been something so majestic about the calm after a storm and I wanted the main dining area to reflect that feeling. This is also where the willow tree came into play. If you have ever witnessed a willow tree after a storm, it’s branches rest so still while the water beneath lays flat and calm.

The willow tree became the main focal point engraved into the far wall, scaling the stair well with a shallow pool of water beneath. I was originally inspired by the engravings from Gjeline Restaurant design shown below.

as well as this sketch of a willow tree

As you can see in the rendered image shown below the stair rail is held by a minimal transparent floor to ceiling glass that encloses the recessed pool of water so that it appears flush to the main floor.

After the calm comes the clearing, giving way to a starry night’s sky.  This was to be achieved on the mezzanine level where the vast spacing of the table arrangements allowed for a busy ceiling plan.  I was inspired by the cylindrical luminaire’s from Char NO. 4 Design and clustered them in a similar fashion above the mezzanine dining area.

I was able to find a similar pendant produced by Tech Lighting and supplied through a Montreal and Ottawa Location Arevco.

All the elements in my restaurant conception work simultaneously together to create the end result.  That being said the preliminary stages of my design required a lot of trial and error. I would like to say that the layout came to me naturally but that would be a blaiten lie.  Each area was meticulously reworked to compliment each other and integrate design elements.

Starting with the main floor I created the corridor to highlight the linear sculptural ceiling creating the illusion of movement/ forward pull. The bar corridor deliberately ends with the beginning of a perfect symmetrical rectangle forming the main dining area.  To integrate the existing columns I aligned them with the middle beam of the banquette. The end of the stationary banquette marks the beginning of the wine cellar and the four top tables align with the second window division.  The green outline marks the mezzanine level which forms the second rectangle.

In order to maintain the symmetry on the mezzanine level I recessed the service station and display case into the floating wall that sits above the suspended ceiling  structure below.

The sourcing for this project required a little extra effort to not only create an environment designed around nature but also to be ecologically conscious of the resources which were to be used. Fortunately there are numerous firms in the Montreal area with similar mindsets that were willing to share their expertise and material supplier contacts. That being said the materials used in the construction of willow’s have all been considered because of their high environmental standards.

So there you have it my first restaurant design hope you like it!

]]> http://designstamped.com/2011/04/26/my-works-willows-a-first-in-restaurant-design/feed/ 4 http://designstamped.com/2011/04/10/cram-time-wish-me-luck/ http://designstamped.com/2011/04/10/cram-time-wish-me-luck/#comments Sun, 10 Apr 2011 22:18:21 +0000 Sascha http://designstamped.com/?p=1625 I feel like the population of Montreal has quadrupled over night. There’s so many people out and about enjoying the + weather but I have to mention something I always notice during the transition. There tends to be those extremists that are either late starters or early birds. I do however find it amusing to see them cross paths one with Uggs & a Canada Goose Jacket and the other with shorts and sandals. Well I guess to each their own!  On a more serious note though I am drowning in work which is why I haven’t been providing your daily dose of design but please forgive me because I will be back with lots of fabulous ideas.  I just need to bury myself in assignments so I can come out of hibernation with a final design I can be proud to share with you all!  So keep posted for more design inspiration to come. And of course goodluck to anyone in exams!

Spring warms our spirits and sets the socialites into their event planners, organizing parties, bbq’s and whatever else works as an excuse to drink.  I recently came across this great food & craft site Eat Drink Chic and thought this idea would make for a charming token of appreciation to bring to a party.

Print the design onto thick white, textured card-stock. Use a scalpel to cut out then use a small round hole punch in the center of the solid coloured circle.

Below I have provided a link to print off the flower tags with or without writing  If you wish to customize your own sayings, the font used for this is Traveling Typewriter and it’s available for free here. Download and install the font, use a word processing program to type out your message, print onto white paper then use a scalpel to cut out your message and stick onto the tag with glue or double-sided tape.

To download the floral gift tags with or without sayings click on the following link Floral Gift Tags Download

Simply for order purposes lets start with the entrance. In his case the entrance is a small vestibule preceding to a short stair case which is open to the adjacent living room.  I have been infatuated with sisal, grass and jute runners down entrance stairs for a while and have yet to feature them.  Fortunately I think this look would fit very well in this particular case. It is important to have anti slip finish on stairs and this type of runner would serve that function.

Since my friend has already said he will change the banister I suggest a more Eco friendly method as an alternative to chucking the old one.  In a previous post I featured Rust Oleum ( 4 Step Cabinet Makeover) which could be used to stain this banister a beautiful black finish.  He also said that he will be removing the carpet so I recommend finishing the new stair treads in the same black finish. This look would provide a clean and styled contrast to white stair risers as well as walls. With the stair treads and banister now finished in black and remaining area in white this would work as the perfect canvas for a beige sisal, grass or jute runner.   You can see the step by step to ripping off carpet and creating a new stair case by clicking on the following link Southern Hospitality. Also you can view my friends before entrance photo as well as some examples of this style below.

Above: The Before Entrance Way

Above via Decorpad

Above via Posners

You can see the step by step to ripping off carpet and creating a new stair case by clicking on the following link Southern Hospitality

The next step to creating a designed entranceway is revitalizing the window treatments. Since this is a starter home and he is a young bachelor I don’t want to empty his back pocket. Window treatments don’t have to cost you a fortune especially when the windows don’t require custom specifications. Luckily for him I have just the thing in mind. Since the space is small I want to tie in the pieces in a sophisticated minimalist fashion so not to make the area appear cluttered. I believe dark stained wood blinds will do the job. Below are two images with similar styles and you can find this type of product at such locations as BouClair.

via DesignWagen

And lastly to finish off the space it comes down to a personal choice. If you prefer reserving space in the closet for jackets then you can get rid of the coat rack. However I do understand the convenience of having a coat rack so in such a case I would simply install individual hooks like those shown below. A trick I often use is the “rule of odd numbers.” See odd numbers provide a center point which our eyes are attracted to and in turn makes a display look balanced. If he is open to the first suggestion of reserving space in the closet I recommend using the open wall space for a small collage of black and white photographs.

Below the Vippa Hook from Ikea

Stay posted for more inspirational ideas!

This can also be crafted from recycled pallets. The writing in the mustard yellow accent colour adds that extra touch and ties the pieces together providing a relaxing rustic bedroom atmosphere. Above via Crafterholic

Drift wood with a light colour tone almost, bleached has a quality to it that looks great as sculptural pieces on their own and can be integrated with even the most minimalist of styles. Above via Elizabeth Stuart Design

If you are feeling extra creative and have found the right pieces of wood, you can make a custom mirror that could cost you hundreds.  I especially love the green stained wood version shown Above Via The Girl is a Mess. The green adds the needed contrast against the neutral background

Using drift wood in unique ways can also work as a frame for stenciled or decal-ed words. I can imagine this in a dining room as an accent wall. Above via Event Decor Blog

Who says you need to pay a lot of money for art.. when you can be the artist and reap the beauty of your own work.  The sculpture above can be a co-creation between you and mother earth .  Above via This Next

Above is another great example of a DIY headboard created from a variety of different found Drift Wood. Via Pinterest

Last on our list may not be drift wood but I wanted to include it because it has that similar raw character and honestly I just really like it! This DIY kitchen island is made from a rough-hewn slab of cypress wood supported by Trojan sawhorses (known for being the sturdiest on the market).

Above: The steel Trojan TS-27 27-Inch Sawhorse Legs for one complete sawhorse are $45.63 at Amazon.

Via Remodelista

Lets start with my favourite. The combination of wall paper, pendant lantern light, cross wire cabinet finish, antiques and glass jars give this space a whimsical elegance. After looking at many laundry room designs I have found a common feature to be light colours which provide that same feeling fresh laundry gives you and there’s nothing like fresh laundry smell!  I can’t wait to have a laundry room because unfortunately for me that feeling happens once a month if I’m lucky… and yes I have a ton of underwear so you can get rid of that gross look!

The Glass Vases are a great way to store detergent for easy access and aesthetics.  You can definitely find such vases at Pier 1 Imports or Homesense among many other places.

I know we may not all have the luxury of space but I adore this laundry room for its vast counter space which equals optimal folding results!  So if you do have room for an island that would be a definite perk.  On another note, wicker baskets are a stylish organizational element that look great on open concept shelving. You can also find inexpensive wicker baskets at HomeSense and Ikea would be a great place to find open concept shelving.

Above Via Corea Sotropa Interior Design

In this particular case an office space has been amalgamated into a laundry room. Although the space is simple stark white, the green grass carpet provides contrast and makes the room feel laundry fresh!

Above Via Home-Designing

The pastel Yellow and Industrial pendant lights give this laundry room the desired style. You can find these types of lights at pretty much any light store but check out the following links for some other industrial options

Barn Light Eclectic

Anthropologie

Ferrem

Above Via Best House Design

A Laundry room a le Francais.. tres cute!  This space has all the necessities and has been executed with such grace.  The pastel green works as a fresh canvas and compliments all the additional pieces.  I especially love the look of the steel buckets, something you could find at a garage sale that adds that extra touch.

Above Via Material Girls french

Above Via Remodelaholic

Via Apartment Therapy

Rollers are a good addition for dual functionality spaces allowing you easily move the pieces.

The possibilities are limitless with these reused pallets, so don’t feel like you have to spend hundreds let alone thousands on outdoor furnishings. Make your own and spruce it up with some vibrant cushions and pillows

Via DesignSquish

Via Unconsumption

Via Renest

Via Pinterest

Via From The Right Bank

Via House & Home

I love the modern take on christmas decor seen above. For the last 5 years I have been living in tiny apartments with no room for a real christmas tree so I might have to steal this look for next years decor!

Via HGTV BLOG

The design above incorporates the same style of chair but changes it up with colour and the inclusion of a double seater bench.  Beyond the chairs I love the industrial pendant above the table. It is now my mission to source this light, so if any of you know the designer..please chime in.

Above is Sarah Jessica Parker’s take on mis-matched Chairs!

Via The Decorologist

Don’t just consider it for residential because it can also adds innovative character to commercial design like in the restaurant above. Via Mezzo Amersterdam

And now here is a great example of how to DIY your own set via Houzz.  Keep an open mind because the fabrics and finishes are truly limitless, providing the opportunity to custom your own set.

Aside from chairs and a table, you’ll need an orbital sander, a sanding block, spray primer, high-gloss spray paint and a spray handle.

For a cool $5, I scored this Victorian lady from an upholsterer’s fire sale. While I kind of liked the dark stain of its frame, it was screaming for a bold, high-energy update.

To start turning the old lady into a hot, modern momma, I used the sanding block to rough up her frame. While the orbital sander is super efficient, makes cool noises and really gets rid of existing finishes, it’s not ideal for thin, round surfaces. By sticking with the sanding block, I was able to wrap around the rounded legs as well as the back and also get the old finish out from the nooks and crannies. Overall, this chair took about 20 minutes to strip. She’s also a great example of a seat which is super easy to reupholster. Simply stretch batting and fabric across the top, then staple underneath. To take it one step further: Cut a piece of black fabric to size, then staple that to the bottom, covering up the staples and cut edges underneath.

For under $30, I scored this mid-century cane back chair. At first, I got a bit attached to the beautiful woven detail of the back and wanted to preserve it. About 45 seconds later, I realized that would take entirely too much time so I hit the cane detail and the square legs and frame with the orbital sander and had the old, gloppy, black finish off in about 15 minutes.

There are good and bad things about spray painting cane detail. The bad: It seems to lose its impact when not sporting its natural tone. Good: Once sprayed the same color as the rest of the chair, it becomes more streamlined, allowing the overall lines of the chair take center stage. To ensure comfy seating, I decided to drop off the old cushion with my upholsterer and have him beef it up with thicker foam and a professionally sewn cover with welt cord. In the long run, this chair set me back about $62 — the price of a good dinner for two.

My encounter with this $18 country chair was love at first sight. It’s gold and green finish, notsomuch. This little doozie took more time than the others to update. How so? Skip to the next photo.

Because the chair sports round surfaces and wavy lines, hitting it with the orbital sander wasn’t an option—unless you enjoy playing with power tools for seven hours without actually having tooled anything successfully. The sanding block worked wonders in navigating the un-straightness of the chair. Also, notice how the existing version had no cushion? Well, I certainly don’t want people getting backbone bruises in my eating space; therefore, I dropped the country girl off with my upholsterer who outfitted her with a taut, fully upholstered seat.

Pattern can be intimidating when it comes to chairs since it seems to lock you into some sort of style commitment. Well, let me tell you something: It’s a great way to tie together disparate pieces never meant to go together. To pay homage to the mid-century bones of the space, I opted for a mod, overlapping squares pattern. While the chairs are a glossy, fire engine red right now — thanks to a steady flow of paint via the spray handle — I may opt to change them to something else in the future. By sticking with a neutral brown/white combo on the upholstery, it allows me the ability to change up the chair color down the road.

Tip: If you opt for a solid fabric on your cushions, choose something with good texture; the visual tension between the paint finish and the fabric will make it more interesting and keep it from falling flat

What kind of table did I choose? That’s confidential. I found a cool base with no top, then totally cheaped out and don’t want you to see it. To keep my focus on unifying the chairs and coordinating them with the table, I cut a piece of plywood to size, then had a pleated table skirt sewn using indoor/outdoor Sunbrella fabric in the same brown found in the cushion. For a touch of red, I had my seamstress add a two-inch band of velvet trim to the top. With such a tailored table skirt, who cares what’s underneath, right?

The ensemble — chairs, supplies, upholstery costs and table — set me back about $300. Guess how much the showroom dining chairs I originally had my heart set on cost? $385 each. In the style of Charlie Sheen, I cannot help but sum up this project in one word: WINNING!

Thank you DecorDemon for the entertaining and educational step by step tutorial!

Ever Ours & Utterly Engaged

Help Japan poster

Help Japan print

SOS Japan necklace

Main Tasting Room is composed of rich materials & furnishings such as black granite, lacquered surfaces, custom turned wood pedestal tables, Driade sofas among other cutting edge furnishings which come together to create an innovative spin on the classic wine tasting atmosphere.

The Cave Tasting Table is located within a smaller tasting area redesigned to compliment the sophistication of the main  tasting room. A blackboard running along the perimeter of the space displays the winemaker’s notes of vintages being sampled. Tom Dixon lamps add an eclectic touch to the dark ambiance of the underground space.

The Cave Events Space is located at the end of one of the cave main tunnels and serves as a reception area for public events. The walls of the cave are painted Merus red and in conjunction with the glowing Foscarini chandeliers add the necessary spark of colour . A large custom black table with turned legs is the centerpiece of the room. The space gives off a majestic ambiance and delivers the perfect blend of contemporary and rustic feel to achieve a one of a kind wine tasting experience.

photographer: Dim Balsem

Via Architonic

On another note I am currently working on a restaurant project and trying to finalize the furniture schedule. Like always I look for inspirations which includes hours of research and amazing finds. I came across Ella Dining Room & Bar Designed by Uxus and fell in love. It has been added to the Bucket List and was a mandatory feature. Located in Sacramento, California it’s one of the most innovative restaurant interiors I have ever seen. Who would of thought to use a hodge-podge of shutters on the ceiling and overhang of the bar. Well they did and it’s stunning along with the contemporary lines and variety of  eclectic pieces.  UXUS was commissioned by The Selzim Restaurant Group for this 4 million dollar project which has a capacity for 250 diners and covers an area of 710m2 (approx 7600 sq ft).

Via designscene

Today’s post was sent to me by a dear friend who has awesome taste and an eye for eclectic design.  In case you don’t know what I mean by eclectic design since it is open to many different interpretations I will give you my own personal definition. Eclectic design to me means a well thought out combination of a variety of styles, patterns, colours, finishes, new and vintage pieces that harmonize when brought together.   Each piece is a staple and tells its own story but when combined compliment each other.  I honestly think it’s one of the most difficult styles to pull off and really requires an eye for it but when done right, the result has extraordinary character and human warmth.

Thanks Em.

Below you will see this 1970′s townhouse renovated by Swedish interior designer marie olsson nylander.

Via Sfgirlbybay

Heatherwick Studio has been producing incredibly innovative projects for over a decade now and among their inspiring creations is this organically modeled bridge. The rolling bridge design functions is such a way to allow both worker’s access as well as the boat moored in the inlet. The bridge spans across the Grand Union Canal at Paddington Basin, in London.  ”The aim of the project was to make the movement the extraordinary aspect of the bridge,” and I would have to say they most certainly achieved that.  This is by far the most innovative bridge I have seen to date.

For specifics on the construction of The Rolling Bridge visit their website by clicking on the link

Two coats of white and black semi-gloss paint, two pieces of satin nickel hardware & you have yourself a beautiful new door.

Step 1: Remove the existing hardware with a screwdriver.

Step 2: Use medium-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to remove the existing finish. In cases where a door sports a thick layer of polyurethane, it may be wise to use coarse grit to ensure you get rid of the slick surface entirely.

Step 3: Paint the entire door with the color intended for the accent panel trim tone. It’s best to go with two coats so that the wood grain doesn’t peek through. This double layer of paint will also serve as a primer.

Step 4: Tape off accent panel trim with 2-inch painters’ tape. While it’s okay to simply eyeball it, I suggest taking the extra time to measure appropriately, then lay the tape in place to keep everything symmetrical. Two panels work the best; keep the outside lines of the panel trim 3-inches in from the edge of the door and leave 8 to 10 inches between the top and bottom panels. This is a good rule-of-thumb for creating the proper scale.

Step 5: Once the panels are taped off, go all perfectionistic by fine-tuning intersecting pieces of tape, pressing them firmly to remove any air pockets.

Step 6: To ensure perfectly straight lines, cut away excess tape from corners with a utility knife.

Let’s take a look at what happens without taking the proper time to prep before painting the door surface color. See the bleeds, smudges and uglies, those are what you’ll end up with if you don’t follow steps 5, 6 and 7.

Step 7: After checking to make sure all edges of tape are perfectly flush with the door, brush the door surface color onto the door with a paint brush starting on the center of the tape, pushing outward onto the door. Why? This will create a perfect line; brush strokes away from the tape ensure nothing creeps underneath it.

Step 8: Once you’ve used the brush to stroke the door surface color out from the painters’ tape, use a roller to cover the remaining surface. NOTE: Avoid motion which pushes the roller down onto the tape, instead rolling up and off of it.

Step 9: After slowly removing the painters’ tape, replace the hardware with something more up-to-date. Satin or polished nickel, chrome and oil rubbed bronze usually work best in modern spaces.

In addition to door knobs, consider adding door knockers or graphic coat hooks to dress up the door.

While I recommend this project for hollow-core doors, it works just as well on those made from solid wood. High contrast offers up the most impact. Black and white is classic and goes with everything, but playing up two drastically different shades of your room’s wall color works just as well.

I am a huge fan of coloured doors so definitely expect to see more features on the site!

Via Decordemon

For those of us that like to keep active and decrease our carbon footprint, biking is a great source of transportation. The only issue is that it is becoming less and less safe to lock your bike outside without it being damaged or stolen. Unfortunately we don’t all have an abundance of space, garage or balcony for safe storage.  I currently have my bike resting against a wall in my office where I use the wicker basket to store all my rolled up drawings but getting it out of the way would be a more ideal situation, so here is a beautiful design to store your urban bike. In addition if you’re crafty I am sure you can create your own DIY Bike rack design.

Designed by San Francisco-based wood worker Chris Brigham (his studio is aptly named Knife and Saw). The Bike Shelf is available in walnut ($300) or in ash or maple ($275).

Above: The Bike Shelf in a Walnut finish.

Above: The Bike Shelf in an Ash finish

Anne Talbot-Kelly Garden Design 

Green over Grey Living Walls and Design

www.greenovergrey.com 

Ann Demeulemeester shop in Seoul, South Korea, Mass Studies Architects

Wooly Wally Pockets

www.woolypocket.com 

New Jean Nouvel Musee du Quai Branly, Paris. Vertical Garden by Patrick Blanc

JM Loft, Paris. Patrick Blanc

JM Loft, Paris. Patrick Blanc

www.verticalgardenpatrickblanc.com 

The Garden designed by James Dawson inspired by the artwork of MC Escher

Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York

The Cabinet Transformations product is a kit sold in home improvement stores (it’s definitely at Lowe’s and Home Depot).  It’s a water-based, multi-purpose product for use on wood, laminate, melamine and metal.  You take the kit up to the paint counter and ask them to tint it in one of 35 different colors – which becomes 70 when you add the optional decorative glaze.

Then, you take it home and get to work.  The process is four steps and it’s really no more difficult than painting and wiping.

The Cabinet Transformations kit comes with an instructional DVD or you can watch it here and it is literally no more work then the steps shown above.  For extra reassurance check out these testimonials – including the transformation below by Savannah:

Before

After

The new cabinet finish definitely gives this kitchen a revamped look, isn’t it amazing!

The Cabinet Transformations kit comes in 2 sizes – Small (covers 100 sq ft, like a condo) and Large (covers 200 sq ft, like an average kitchen) – and has the suggested retail price of $79.99 and $149.99 respectively.  Upon first glance, the price seems a little spendy, but once I calculated the cost of sandpaper + primer + paint + protective coating + a lot more time, I decided that it was well worth the price.

Also, since this product can be used on so many different surfaces, there are many other items you can transform with the kit, such as LAMINATE FURNITURE!

via Living with Lindsay

Materials

• miniature liquors, such as Irish Whiskey or Goldschlager (limeade to make non-alcoholic)
• print paper
• corks
• string
• gold paper
• glue
• hole puncher
• scissors or X-acto knife
• glue, Goo Gone or another adhesive remover

Instructions

For the Labels

1. Download and print paper labels from here. Cut them out.

2. Remove original labels from miniature bottles using adhesive remover. Take off the original lids and replace them with cork.

3. Apply glue to paper labels and adhere to bottles.

For the Golden Shamrock Bottles

1. Download tags from here. Print and cut them out, then punch a hole at the top of each tag.

2. Remove original labels from miniature bottles using adhesive remover. Take off original lids and replace them with cork.

3. Cut heart shapes out of gold paper, put glue on the backs of the paper hearts and apply them to bottles in shamrock shapes.

4. Tie tags on to the bottle necks. And have yourself a wee one!

Special Thanks to Halligan off DesignSponge

The 4 story house doesn’t neglect design in its initiative to create an eco friendly sustainable home fusing natural elements of landscape architecture. The pool is probably my favourite feature, the depth, staggered stone and ribbon wall window are incredible.

via architecture linked

Below: Trellis Allover Stencil by Cutting Edge Stencils

Three men & a Lady's guest bathroom ceiling

Among the many positives to using stencils is your ability to customize colour combinations. Additionally they’re also great for stylizing accent pieces like a tray. shown above

Below: Damask Kerry Sm Scale

Below: Wall Stencil Pattern Indian Paisley Damask Allover- off Etsy

Above pattern: Similar to the stencil shown in MY WORKS: A Baby’s Room on the Stencilled Dropcloth textile suspended over the crib.

Below: Allover Wall Stencil Endless Circles Lattice Stencil for Chic Wall Decor- off Etsy

Below: WOVEN Pattern Allover Wall STENCIL – Durable, Reusable, Easy DIY Home Decor- Olive Leaf Stencils

Below a more whimsical pattern of flowers and butterflies. Geisha Garden Wall Pattern Kit

The earth acts as a natural insulation significantly reducing energy consumption and providing protection from natural disasters.  An additional bonus is that you will no longer need to worry about painting, shingles or my favourite cleaning out the eaves troughs!!!

The first home belongs to Bill Lishman who emphasizes that “the design must be well thought out in advance because any changes would be difficult or impossible once the earth was replaced. Upgrades for things like phone, cable and power must be in place at the time of building.  Also, it is of course incredibly difficult to fit square appliances and hang rectangular frames in spherical rooms and on rounded walls.”

For more information on William Lishman Underground Architecture click on the link.

The examples of underground homes I have chosen to showcase transition from more organic and natural design interpretations to modern adapted concepts. The following example resembles the entrance of a cave, wide and open, dark and heavy but bright and spacious. This home is an incredible expression of architectural concepts being fused to create an earthen living structure buried in the mountainous ground of the Swiss Alps.

Rather than wrapping outward around the home, the exterior facade circles inward and faces an oval forecourt.

The odd opening frames amazing views of the surrounding landscape as well as providing privacy and security for the residents within.  The concrete and stone construction provides a solid structure while allowing for natural light to flow through into every interior space.

The following is a more modern take on underground home designs as shown in the inside pictures below. Shaped like an abstract flower the underground house is nearly invisible, blending into the landscape like rolling hills in the distance not to mention an incredible aerial view.

At eight thousand square feet, this house designed by Make Architects for all-star football player Gary Neville is as architecturally daring as it is eco-friendly. It aims to be the first carbon-neutral house in all of Great Britain.

via Dornob

Instead of your traditional mobile above the crib I used white origami birds and set the back drop with a damask patterned textile inspired by the image below and a fellow blogger Lauren Liess.  Organization is a priority so I provided lots of extra storage easily accessible.  One of my favourite things about babies besides their soft skin and newborn smell is their adorable clothes. In this design concept I have mounted two closet rods to showoff the tiny dresses and jumpers, resembling a boutique style display.  This particular design calls for a larger space and allows for a double seater arm chair with an upholstered ottoman.  A tray sits atop the ottoman for functionality. An extra eclectic touch to the room is the floor lamp with a wood stump base.  The combination of drapes and wood blinds adds a soft variety of materials.

Damask patterned textile. Image via Pure Style

Origami inspiration

Montauk Julien Arm Chair

Montauk is probably my favourite sofa company and it’s a bonus that they’re a local Montreal furniture company, manufacturing products to a high eco and ethical standard.  Although their products are high end and definitely not in every budget I hope to one day own one and I love using them in projects.  Unfortunately I could not find a professional photograph of the Julien chair, so go check out their site for more images and products, Montauk.  The reason I chose to use this chair is not only because it is extremely comfortable due to the down filling but also because it is oversized allowing for two people to cuddle up comfortably.

Light box projecting different images and colours

The image above is an example of the light box I used above the change table that transitions through images and different colours.  It is important to incorporate texture, colour and patterns to stimulate a babies senses.

The open concept shelving units are a great organizational piece and can be complimented with a range of basket styles from wicker to linen storing toys, clothes, diapers etc.

I would have to say that one of my staple design elements is definitely picture framed collages.  I tend to incorporate them wherever possible. In this instance I have created a collage above the right shelving unit, the assembly is made up of shots documenting the pregnancy from the expecting mother to the new family.

I hope you enjoy the preview for what is to come in “my works” and please feel free to leave any comments or questions.

Above: Ziggy Natural Hemp Sandal by Po-Zu ( as seen in Packaging: The Sustainable Way) 

‘Toms’ donates a pair of shoes to a needy child for every pair bought from them! Tom’s has provided shoes to over 300,000 children around the world. The styles are available in a variety of colours and washs. 

Above: Grey Wool Fleck Women’s Cordones by Toms 

Above :Yellow Stone-Washed Twill Women’s Classics by Toms 

Above: Blue Green Tharp Women’s Linen Classics by Toms 

Above: Red Canvas Women’s Wedge by Toms 

Melissa Plastic Dreams in collaboration with Vivienne Westwood is a excellent example of shoe designs that do not sacrifice comfort and style for eco-friendly production methods. Melissa developed Melflex, a material that has proven to be extremely flexible, comfortable and above all functionally durable.  Check out Epaulet for online sales. 

Above: Lady Dragon by Melissa Plastic Dreams & Vivienne Westwood or as shown below I love the red booties 

They even have designs for baby shoes… tooo cute!! 

Neuaura Shoes is an animal friendly footwear company offering a variety of booties, flats & heels. They chooses 2 charities each season to donate 10% of all online sales. Below you can see two of my favourite pairs. 

Above: Senegal Olive by Neuaura 

Above: Ras Turquoise by Neuara 

Terra Plana, the 2007 Ethical Fashion Award Winner never misses details with their shoes. 

Above: The Rita in black and red is 100% Vegan by Terra Plana 

For an ergonomic, durable choice I highly recommend ‘Chaco’. The company purchases wind-powered green certificates to cover their entire yearly electrical usage. 

Above: The Native Eco Tread by Chaco

Pushing the limits of tree house designs  New Zealand has built a restaurant on a tree.   The Yellow Tree house Cafe sits 10 meters above the ground enveloping a redwood tree. While the concept is built upon  a suspended chrysalis, in a fairy-tale environment overlooking a meadow and meandering stream on the edge of a forest.  The wooden restaurant project was conceptualized by Peter Eising and Lucy Gauntlett  from the Bureau of Architecture Pacific Environments Architects.  Their creation is the result of an ‘off-the-wall’, marketing promotion for Yellow pages.  

 ” At 10m wide and over 12m high with split-level floor sitting 10m above the ground, it is sustainably constructed from timber trusses forming the main structure and curved glue-laminated pine fins and poplar slats to give it form. Windows are created by leaving spaces between the slats/fins that keeps the overall form yet affords a variety of permeability for the views and light. Access is via a 60m tree-top walkway – an adventure in itself. The tree house is designed to be weather resistant using acrylic sheeting fixed to the roof under the fins with roll-down café-style blinds within. Strategic lighting creates a ‘beacon-like’ glow at night.” 

The last photo shown above is my favourite, it’s just so nostalgic with the upward angle capturing the night sky, the restaurant appears like a glowing membrane of life.   

via  Snegidhi

Banyan Drive tree house features a studio space/living area and a toilet room. As you can see it’s not your typical tree house, they have splurged on rich materials, with mahogany windows opening up to the surrounding views, deep-oiled wood siding, and titanium zinc used for the Rheinzink roof.

Modern design with exposed structural elements and angles.  The small window shown above is embedded in the floor overlooking the supporting tree trunk below.

I am a huge fan of outdoor showers, unfortunately the climate which I am currently residing in only allows for them a couple months out of the year but  the experience is revitalizing freeing you from confinements and opening you  to natures beauty. It makes this tree house the ultimate escape and a great future studio space.

Images via Rockefeller Partners Architects, busy boo

 The front and back of the house is made up of  single glass units for each floor that allow total transparency to the street.   The use of material and white paint application to the walls achieves an airy and free feeling despite the small quarters. Additionally I love that the entire glass panel acts as a door as shown in the image below.

via Busyboo

Best said by my fellow blogger Palmira each of these pieces is so gorgeous that it deserves its own picture. Although they don’t fit into everyone’s budget it is definitely a quality over quantity investment. Palmira has been scheming ways to attain this beautiful collection one piece at a time. Each piece is handcrafted by master glassblowers in the Czech Republic from the finest German borosilicate glass. We have been fans of transparent glassware since the begining because of its ability to showcase the artistry of presentation from flowering tea to layered desserts.   Check out their site for additional pieces and information The Molo Store.

Float Tea Lantern ( the signature piece of the float family)

The float sugar + cream set is designed to compliment the float tea lantern and tea cups.

Designed with dimensions and proportions fitting to matcha, the green tea of the Japanese tea ceremony, the matcha bowl easily accommodates a traditional bamboo whisk.

float martini glasses. Use for martinis, a serving dish for olives or berries and desserts.

float champagne flutes

float pilsner flute

float liqueur glasses

via Molo Store

60 bag

BELOW:The original single-use bamboo collection of plates, serveware and utensils. All Occasion Veneerware® is the one and only single-use product made from 100% bamboo and Certified Organic. All Occasion Veneerware® is ideal for meals at home, picnics, catered events, weddings, birthdays, conferences or almost any occasion. All Occasion Veneerware® is our answer to the paper plate. Click on the following link for their official website: Bambu.

Below: 100% biodegradable packaging for PO-ZU, an “ecological footwear manufacturer.” PO-ZU suggest that the box can be used as a tray to grow seedlings. As the plant grows, simply place the entire tray in the earth and it will decompose naturally.

This packaging is made of six identical wooden cubes made of oiled nutwood. A leather hinge provides the opening function, a paper loop is used as closure. KLOTZ is not only for protecting the jewelry, but also for presenting it! The whole packaging is made out of natural materials and is 100% biodegradable.” Designed by Gerlinde Gruber

Below: These beautiful brown paper bags look like origami.

With the aim to help save the endangered animal Magdalena Czarnecki, in collaboration with WWF, created “This is Origami”, a sustainable packaging design that can be reused and serve as a toy paper. After emptying the paper bags, it has all the step-by-step folding instruction in order for you to come in a certain toy stated in the cover, which are in the form of an animal.

Culdesac is a design studio based in valencia, spain specialising in directional sustainable cutting edge product design. They have designed a new ceramic  bottle and crate inspired packaging for new extra virgin olive oil company el mil de poaig .The driving concept behind the design is ‘no wastage’. Made from traditional valencian ceramics the bottle combines bisque with glazed porcelain.Its sleek minimal design has been developed, so that no oil is wasted. Each of the limited edition bottles come packaged in hand made wooden crates with a security seal. The packaging enhances the product while preserving its contents. via Dezeen

Below :Coeur de Pirate True Colors Cover

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eK-dwEUx0vs

Below: Pixie Lott Use Somebody Cover

Also check out Pixie Lott’s- Appologize cover, Poker Face, Isn’t she lovely

Step 2: While folding the sheet in half width-wise, fold the two bottom corners inside out and tuck into corresponding top corners so the inside seams are touching.

Step 3: While folding the sheet in half length-wise, fold corner B inside out and tuck into corner A.

so it looks like this:

Step 4: Fold in half length-wise (fold in thirds for anything larger than a twin).Warning: This step may drive the perfectionist crazy. Because of the elastic edge, the top won’t  match up with the bottom edges perfectly. Just fold it in a way that creates two parallel sides as best you can so it looks like this:

Step 5: Fold into thirds

And VOILA! Your final result:

I hope that was clear enough!

via beauty & thrift

Above: Photo via Etsy.

Above: Scrapwood Wallpaper No. 4; $199 per roll at the Wallpaper Collective. Photo by John Merkl.

Above: Scrapwood Wallpaper No. 1; $199 per roll at the Wallpaper Collective. Photo by John Merkl.

via Remodelista

via remodelista

Below: Among my favourites in her engagement collection is this stunning 18k yellow gold ring.

Below: 20 k Delicate hammered bangles

Below: Coin with Bezeled coral Necklace

charm necklace on 16″ chain

Below: Tree Tag and Petal Necklace

18k charms hang on 16″ 18k chain

Above: Doha Port Stadium in Doha. To be built. Expected capacity: 44,950

Above:And here’s how the stadium, designed by Albert Speer & Partner, will look from across the harbour

|Above: Al-Gharrafa Stadium in Al-Rayyan. Major renovation. Expected capacity: 44,74

Built in 2003 and currently with a capacity of just 25,000, the Al-Gharrafa Stadium will require significant redvelopment to achieve the vision above.

Above: Al-Shamal Stadium in Al-Shamal. To be built. Expected capacity: 45,120

The stadium’s shape derives from traditional fishing boats known as ‘dhow’

Above: Al-Khor Stadium in Al-Khor. To be built. Expected capacity: 45,330

To combat the searing heat, air conditioning units will be installed in this and all of the other stadiums

Above: Umm Slal Stadium in Umm Slal. To be built. Expected capacity 45,120

The stadium is located in south eastern Qatar, albeit just 40 miles from Doha. It’s shape bears similarities to a nearby fort that is one of the most important landmarks of Qatar, The Umm Salal Mohammed Fort

Above: Education City Stadium in Al-Rayyan. To be built. Expected capacity 45,350

Following the World Cup, the stadium will be downsized to 25,000 seats for use by the University hockey team

Access to the stadium will be made easy, even for people travelling from Bahrain, which is only 51 minutes away by high-speed rail

Above: Khalifa International Satdium in Al-Rayyan. Major renovation. Expected capacity 68,030

Above: Al-Wakrah Stadium in Al-Wakrah. To be built. Expected capacity 45,120

Home to Al-Wakrah football team, the current stadium only holds 20,000 fans

Above: Al-Rayyan Stadium in Al-Rayyan. Major renovation. Expected capacity 44,740

The exterior of the stadium features a membrane that will act as a screen for projections and advertisements

Above: Qatar University Stadium in Doha. To be built. Expected capacity 43,520

Of the six stadiums based in the capital, Doha, the University Stadium will be marginally the smallest

Above: Sports City Stadium in Doha. To be built. Expected capacity 47,560

A bird’s eye view shows how the stadium draws inspiration from traditional Arab tents

Above: Lusail Iconic Stadium in Al-Daayen. To be built. expected capacity 86,250

The showpiece stadium and venue for the World Cup final, the Lusail Iconic Stadium will be a masterpiece of engineering. The stadium will have a near circular footprint and will be surrounded by a vast moat

“Reflecting Doha’s culture and heritage, the stadium is designed to be highly energy efficient and capable of performing in extreme summer climatic conditions,” say the designers

Stept 1.

Sort. Grab a lot of big boxes or lawn and leaf trash bags. The first step is to RUTHLESSLY sort through your things, room by room, cabinet by cabinet, closet by closet, and think very carefully about why you want to keep each item you’ve put in the “keep” pile. Is it still really “you”? Does it hold some sentimental value? Do you use it? If not, do you think you really ever will again? I promise you’ll feel lighter and more free when you’ve purged all of the things you don’t use or love anymore.

Step 2.

Clear. Go room by room. Take a good look at every surface, then remove everything from it. Dust. Take a critical look at each item and decide which ones you may want to leave out in the open.

by Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech

Step 3.

Curate. This means editing your items. Donate or sell the ones you have no use for anymore, and realize everything you keep does not need to be displayed at once; you can always rotate them in and out. This is actually a good way to keep your home feeling “new to you.”

Here is some Examples: Collecting without Cluttering

by James Cleary Architecture

This credenza’s surface is a good example of a successful curating effort.

by Dufner Heighes Inc

Step 4.

Compose. Experiment with arranging your items. Cristi Holcombe’s easy tip for creating a great tablescape? “The easiest way is to group things in threes,” she advises, “I also create visual triangles and balance.”

by Cristi Holcombe

Step 5.

Corral. Items like trays can keep items neat and organized.

by Rachel Reider Interiors

Step 6.

Troubleshoot. Some spots are more prone to collect clutter. Once you identify these problem areas, make sure to provide storage. For example, magazines, books, a flashlight, Simply Sleep and other items tend to clutter up a nightstand. Solve this problem by getting one with ample drawer space.

by Dufner Heighes Inc

Likewise, toys become clutter very easily. Go through the toys and donate the ones your kids have lost interest in; use baskets, storage cubes or storage benches to stash toys when not in use.

by Feldman Architecture, Inc.

Step 7.

Create storage solutions. All of the stuff you do keep needs a home. Having an entryway or mudroom outfitted with hooks, cubbies, and enforcing an immediate put away rule is crucial. Every family member should have a designated spot for shoes, bags and coats.

by ZeroEnergy Design

Along these lines, keep every day items off counters but within reach, whether in a medicine cabinet, drawer or basket.

by ZeroEnergy Design

Step 8.

Embrace empty space. Realize the quality of blank space. Just because you have the shelves, it doesn’t mean you need to make them chock-a-block full.

by Stonebreaker Builders & Remodelers

Step 9.

Use symmetry. When you’re striving for a symmetrical balance, clutter will throw it off and stick out like a sore thumb. This can help you edit your items.

by See Construction

Step 10.

One in, one out! Keep a donation box active at all times, and while you’re shopping, you’ll have to think about what you’re going to have to get rid of at home in order to be allowed to bring in the new item. 

WORTH READING: Being Minimalist When You Like Stuff

Design Stamped Readers: how do you keep the clutter at bay? Please let us know in the comments section!

I recently came across this interview with Sam Beam and thought it would be an interesting article to feature.  Similar to other artists he is gifted with the ability to express his art through a multitude of creative outlets.  The singer/song writer/artist brings back the artistry of record album covers.  Continue reading for the full interview via Design Sponge

Beam was working as a film professor when he started making music as Iron & Wine about a decade ago, recording hushed, poetic love songs into a four-track machine with just a guitar and a little bit of banjo to accompany him.   Even if you haven’t listened to any of Iron & Wine’s beautiful, increasingly ornate records, you may have heard Beam’s soothing voice singing in the background of movies like Garden State and Twilight. Beam happens to be a talented visual artist in addition to a sly wordsmith and guitarist — he’s done the art for most of his album covers, and he happily shared some background info on the images he’s chosen to pair with his music. — Rachael Maddux

Above: Cover of the “Walking Far from Home” single

Tell me how you started doing visual art. I know you studied painting, but I’m wondering when it started for you earlier in life.
Sam Beam: I always liked to draw as a kid. I was always drawing. And then I went to art school — I thought that’s what I wanted to do. And then [I] studied photography and film there, in art school. But yeah, I always loved to draw and paint and shit.

Have you done the artwork for all of your album covers?
Sam Beam: The only one that I didn’t do was the first one, The Creek Drank the Cradle — that’s a clipart image there (laughs)  . . . I sort of knew that I wanted a tree, so that’s what [Jesse LeDoux, Sub Pop's in-house designer at the time] found. I tried a couple of drawings of trees and wasn’t really into it, so he found that one. I thought it was good — it looked kinda like a woodcut old thing.

Did you take the photos for Around the Well, The Sea & The Rhythm and Woman King?
Sam Beam: You know, I did the photo for Sea & The Rhythm and for Woman King, but then you’re right, I didn’t do Around the Well. It was basically my idea to do the crop circles, the irrigation circles — that photo was just pulled from, like, a NASA thing or something. In a plane, you know, you see from an airplane — I always thought they looked like records or some kind of sonar thing. There are so many different connotations. Or it looks like some kind of abstract impressionist painting, you know?

I think the same thing every time I fly! I was gonna ask about the fact that you seem to do a lot of self portraits for your albums.
Sam Beam: (laughs) I’ve only done two!

Cover of Our Endless Numbered Days

I don’t know if this was included in the actual album packaging, but you also did one in the style of The Shepherd’s Dog cover, I think.
Sam Beam: Oh yeah, you’re right. That was on the back of the cover. So yeah, I guess I did two and a half. (laughs)

Is that something you started doing out of the necessity of having an image of yourself, or have you always been interested in doing self-portraits?
Sam Beam: No, not necessarily. I mean, I’ve definitely done a lot over the years, but mostly for school. But then maybe I just grew up with people on the record covers (laughs) — you know, the artist always on the cover. And it’s fun to take an image and sort of try to match it with the style of the music on your record — in a surreal way sort of tangentially comment on the music by painting yourself. I like the challenge.

Is it weird to just be working on the image of yourself? Like, “Here I am, drawing myself.”
Sam Beam: Yeah, kind of. I usually try to take myself out of the art for the most part — you know, the songs — but I guess with the covers I don’t.

I think it’s really interesting that the ones you’ve painted, they’re all really different — they don’t necessarily look like they came from the same artist.
Sam Beam: I try to make it fit the record, and you know, I also try not to put the same record out twice. A lot of the time, peoples’ first impression of the record is what they see on the shelf — or it used to be what you see on the shelf, before you listen to it. So I like the idea of setting it up from the beginning, doing it differently, not doing it in the same style. At the same time, I love the labels that have a recognizable style — like the 4AD thing, like the Blue Note shit where you can always recognize their covers. I like that idea, I just work the opposite way. (laughs)

Your own work that you’ve done over time — that you haven’t put on your record covers — is it as eclectic?
Sam Beam: To be honest, I never really draw until I have a record cover to do. (laughs) It’s a good excuse to clear the schedule and do some drawing.

Tell me about the new record cover — how did you do it? It looks almost digital, but I don’t know if it is.
Sam Beam: The original idea was — remember when we were kids and you’d color on a piece of paper with a crayon and you’d paint over that with black Tempera paint and then etch out the drawing?

Cover of Kiss Each Other Clean

That’s exactly what I thought it might be!

Sam Beam: Do you remember that?

Yeah!
Sam Beam: The idea was to do something like that, so I actually did a bunch of physical ones. But I kept fucking up, so I did it with, like, black ink and a brush — just drawing on white paper. And then we flipped it in the computer and then we were able to color it. We did a bunch of different versions of the colorization and still kind of kept that main idea of all those random colors you get when you actually do that kind of a etching kind of thing, where the color bleeds into the objects in the background. We were able to do a bunch of different versions. . . . We toyed with the idea of including ones for people to draw themselves, but it was kind of a big commitment.

Since you usually only get to do this stuff when you’re working on your own album cover, do you listen to the album itself while you’re working on the art?
Sam Beam: Usually — at certain times, yeah. Sometimes when you’re doing, like, early sketches and stuff, it’s great to help you remember what you’re actually illustrating (laughs), and then if I get in a jam, I’ll turn it back on. But I try to listen to it as little as possible.
Click the following link for Iron & Wine‘s myspace page or take a listen to one of my favourites Fever Dream via youtube.

This Valentine’s Day project is easy to put together and can be created over a table, on the wall, outside, or even in the bedroom. Simply go to your local  Michael’s, vintage stores, and bakeries or pick from your stash of already loved Valentine cards. Pick your favorites among the paper goods, find some vintage Valentines, and pick up a sweet treat. Spray painting close-pins can add a whole new look to your banner and make it easy to hang all your incredible finds.

For the guys out there, adding that perfect ring (we love Sarah Perlis) tied with a simple string can be the perfect way to propose on this special day. Instead of “be my Valentine,” you can cut out “will you marry me”

We found these great vintage blocks at Star Provisions , but you could make your own with a little kraft box, paint, glue, and vintage Valentine cards.

Styling by Ashley Meaders of Dolci Odille

“You Have My…Heart” paper goods by Bird and Banner

Wooden Bicycle picture by Yellow Owl Workshop via the Reform School

Vintage paper boxes and mini chocolate cake from Star Provisions

Via : Design Sponge

“Called 111 Navy Chair, the project is a collaboration between Emeco, known for aluminium furniture, and drinks brand Coca-Cola. What’s interesting about this project is that this chair is made made of 111 recycled plastic cola bottles, a great example initiated by Coca-Cola. Each chair is made of a mix of 60 percent PET plastic (recycled polyethylene terephthalate plastic) and a special combination of other materials, which includes pigment and glass fiber for strength. Carrying a five-year structural guarantee, the navy chair is available in six colors of Red, Snow, Flint Gray, Grass Green, Persimmon and Charcoal. The chair launched in Milan and will be sold exclusively through Design Within Reach.”

Sourced via Fresh Home

Despite a schedule packed with back-to-back client installations, custom fabrications and Instant Space orders, the Countess of California Cool took time out to share her thoughts on decorating and design with Houzz readers. From Betsy’s go-to retail stores to the proper way to mix patterns, here’s the rundown on outside-the-box design straight from Ms. Burnham herself:

BPF: In your opinion, when is it okay to go bold with color or pattern on a piece of furniture versus staying neutral?

BB: When you want to add a bit of whimsy to a room, it’s great to take a risk with pattern on major pieces. I’ve done striped sofas — even a camouflage print one — that added just the right twist to a room.  Another time to go bold is when you’ve got a piece of furniture with great lines that seems overly serious; a Louis-style settee is a lot more fun in a red linen than it is in a pale silk, for instance.

by Betsy Burnham

While color is one of Betsy’s signature design elements, she finds it more practical used in small doses set against neutral backdrops.by Betsy Burnham

BPF: Give us three paint colors you use time and time again on walls.

BB: Dunn Edward’s “Silver Spoon,” a fabulous pale blue/gray that all of us have used in our own homes; Benjamin Moore’s “Providence Olive,” a gutsy neutral that looks amazing with black wood finishes and hits of red; Dunn Edward’s “Whisper,” our go-to white that’s crisp and fresh but also soft enough to be extremely livable. We love it for wood trim.

by Betsy Burnham

Fans consider Betsy’s work very complex and meticulously well thought out. Mixing patterns and using neutrals in fresh, unexpected ways isn’t a skill picked up through reading a textbook. Betsy, who originally worked in menswear for The Gap, has an in-depth understanding of textiles and tailoring which often shows in her upholstery and seamstress work.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: When is it okay to mix pattern?

BB: It’s okay when there’s a color or mix of colors consistent between them and when their scales are different. For instance, a two-color, medium-scale ikat in grassy green and white will look fabulous with a multicolored paisley that has a bit of the same green in it. Add to this a small-scale leopard print with a white ground (and perhaps one of the colors from the paisley), and you’ve got a cool room. What’s important is to make it look just random enough; in other words, not too perfect.

by Betsy Burnham

As this living room demonstrates, something indicative of a Burnham-designed space is a meticulous layering of textures, sheens, colors and shapes.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: If you had to name the biggest mistake people make when decorating their own homes, what would it be?

BB: Not respecting the integrity of the architecture. A Spanish-style house really isn’t the best setting for italian modern furniture. I’m not suggesting being overly literal — too much of any one thing won’t look fresh and up-to-date — but give a nod to the style of the outside of your house with your furnishings.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: What are your thoughts on dark-stained floors?

BB: I still love them. They’re classic, chic and timeless; dark floors provide fabulous contrast with white trim and wall color. So what if pet hair is more noticeable?

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: Any decorating pet peeves?

BB: I can’t stand it when people push their furniture up against the walls of their room. This is not a furniture plan! Pull your furniture in, let it “float.” By creating more intimate groupings of pieces, the result is a much warmer space. Another pet peeve, and I’m sorry BPF, is too much DIY. Most people are not good painters, or paper hangers. Hire a professional to do the work. It’s really well worth the splurge, and that well-prepped and painted wall will make even Ikea furniture look expensive.

BPF: No offense taken! I’m a pretty darn good painter and stylist; however, I leave true wallpaper hanging to my team of professionals. I totally agree that there’s many cases where paint jobs should be left to the professionals.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: Since not everyone can shop at trade-only showrooms, give us your go-to retail store for great home furnishings.

BB: West Elm for desks and accessories, Crate and Barrel for off-the-rack upholstery and Anthropologie for great-looking drapery panels.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: One of my biggest pet peeves is rod pocket drapery panels thrown up on cheap rods, then considered “window treatments”. If someone wants tailored draperies but is on a budget, what should they keep in mind?

BB: One thing we did recently was pick up ready-made panels from Anthropologie (they have a fabulous selection of them), and then to smarten them up: we had our drapery fabricator add lining and hem them so that they were just the right length to “kiss” the floor of the room. Once these updates were done, even the rod pockets didn’t bother us; the panels looked completely custom.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: You use animal prints and make it look so luxurious. What can make leopard or zebra prints look cheap and gaudy?

BB: Garish colors are a no-no, as are inexpensive or overly furry fabrics. It sounds oxymoronic, but look for tasteful animal prints.

by Betsy Burnham

BPF: Many of your spaces sport breathtaking millwork. Any trick for making it look great without spending a fortune to do so?

BB: Oh, there’s no trick — custom millwork is expensive! One cost-saving idea is to use paint grade material, like MDF, for the actual millwork. Paint-grade materials are generally more affordable than finer, stain-grade woods.

by Betsy Burnham

The featured Los Angeles-based designer at home in her back yard.

Post via HOUZZ Decordemon

Images: Jelinek Cork Group

If you aren’t already a fan of Cork, you should be given its credentials as a renewable material (the bark harvested from the cork tree renews itself each season, so the tree itself remains unharmed.) The material is extremely versatile, you will see it used as furniture, fabric, jewelry, ornaments, cutting boards and of course — as flooring. Cork tiles can lend a warmer feeling to any room. The image above & below showcase its versitaliy, instead of traditional planks or tiles these cork penny tiles from Canadian-based Jelinek Cork Group are even better, being both stylish and eco-friendly (ie. made from recycled wine corks). Plus, they do a good job of masquerading as ceramic tile, without the need to fire them at high temperatures.

Some advantages to cork flooring: it’s an excellent insulator & sound absorber, hygienic, Resilient (easy on your joints), anti-static, anti-allergenic, water resistant, doesn’t entrap dirt or fungi, won’t chip like ceramic when you drop something on it, plus it is easy to maintain.

With reuse potential like this however, it’s no wonder cork is showing up everywhere, and is one material definitely worth considering (take a look at this cork flooring guide) for a greener remodel.

Via TreeHugger

Above: For McNally Jackson Books in Nolita, Front Studio created a “place that is evocative of literature.”

Above: The architects covered the curved wall in an assemblage of open spined books and a series of folding tables, arranged carefully folded like a book when closed.  Another themed idea is the food-related quotes that make up the new menu.

 Above: Custom lighting made with paperback books

Images &  Information via Remodelista