April 2008 Entries
With what I do for living, you will not be surprised that I watch HGTV Canada a lot. HGTV just launched their blog cutely named Style Sheet.
Style Sheet blog design is adorable. It is so girly with a summer vibe. They manage to keep their posts short yet instructive.
I leave you with a story about a Laundry Room makeover they did on The Style Dept.. The laundry room was filled with nifty accessories and electronics. I recalled watching that episode. The Splurge Vs Steal Column is also interesting.
My little moment of pleasure, they like At Home with Kim Vallee (ref. blog roll).
Announcement
I will not post on Thursday; I have an important appointment that will occupy me all day long. Starting next week, I will be featuring 2 Guest Bloggers. I will keep the names a surprise.
>>> Sourcing:
Via: Clean Sweep: Laundry Room [Style Sheet]
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Wednesday, April 30, 2008 10:53 PM | Feedback (3)
I must confess that I am a magazine junkie. A few months ago, I bought a new cooking magazine from Australia called delicious.
I first read the Entertaining Special Issue, very appropriate for me. Fans of Jamie Oliver will be delighted to know that he is a regular on delicious.
The Entertaining Issue
The December 2007/January 2008 issue featured Jamie Oliver’s fresh festive flavors, Bill Granger’s laidback lunch and a profile on Wolfgang Puck. We visited a Café in Tasmania, explored the Basque cuisine, and baked seasonal sweets with Nigella Lawson.
The recipes are tasty and not too complicated. The pictures are exquisite. Delicious was voted the World’s Best Food Magazine. I do not know when, but I kind of agree since delicious is one of my favorite cooking magazine.
On stand, an issue of delicious costs the same as Donna Hay magazine but I feel that each issue of delicious packs with more stuff.
The Annual Italian Cooking Issue
The May 2008 issue is their annual Italian issue. Discover Valli Little's collection of all-time favorites, including authentic gnocchi and best-ever lasagne. Ben O’Donoghue prepares a slow-cooked Tuscan ragu, while Jamie Oliver does easy antipasto and fast prawn pasta. Belinda Jeffery whips up creative lemon dishes.
Plus, legendary Sydney chef Armando Percuoco shares home-style dishes. Jill Dupleix stirs up a one-pot seafood stew. Away from the kitchen, we delve into Melbourne's vibrant Italian food scene and take an insider's tour of the stunning Amalfi Coast.
It all sounds great to me. I buy my issues at a local magazine shop. In large urban centers, you should be able to find it in kiosk. Since this is an importation, it is cheaper if you buy it in stores. Otherwise, you can subscribe at Amazon or from the publisher site.
>>> Sourcing:
Subscribe: Delicious - Australia at Amazon.com – price: $154.81 USD for 11 issues
Learn more: Delicious Magazine from ABC
Buy online: Donna Hay Magazine at Amazon.com - price: $99.08 for 6 issues
Categories:
IN the press
FOOD + drinks
posted @ Wednesday, April 30, 2008 1:31 PM | Feedback (3)
A couple years ago, the Spanish brand Lekue introduced the nifty Luki Lemon Squeezer designed by Luki Huber. This silicone lemon squeezer is practical because each half lemon has its mold and you can store everything as it is in the fridge.
The Lekue Duo Silicone & Ceramics Quiche Mold combines the perfect materials for the job. The scratch-resistant ceramic base assures the right colored dough and the flexibility of the silicone makes it easy to remove.
Luki Collection for Lékué Is Expanding
New silicone kitchen tools are in. Right in time for summer, the reusable Lekue Luki Steam Case is a more ecological way to cook fish en papillote. And there is no risk of finding a hole in your paper. Steam Case brings cuteness and fun to healthy meal.
Another way to eat healthier meal is by cooking with Lekue Luki Steamer. Available in two formats, Luki Steamer fuses tradition and innovation. Two stacking steamer compartments and one lid are included. The regular size Steamer fits 8” diameter sauce pans or casseroles.
The silicone Lekue Ice Cream / Ice Pop molds are a treat for adults and kids. Make your own flavor in no time. Simply put pieces of fresh fruits, pour some milk or juice, close with the cap, freeze and enjoy the sweet. You can make frozen Margaritas or Caipiriñas or Mojitos for a grown up party.
All Lékué products are made of 100% Platinum Silicone. Check out ShopFosters.com (Foster's Homeware) to watch a few short videos of these silicone products in action.
Update: Arthur Quentin carries several Lékué products. They do not have the steamer or the quiche mold yet. They do carry the Lemon Squeezer, the Ice Cream molds, the Steam Case, the Sushi mat and other products I did not talk about.
Arthur Quentin
3960 Saint-Denis Street
Montreal, QC H2W 2M2
p 514.843.7513
open Monday to Saturday
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Lemon Squeezer at Foster's Homeware – price: $15 USD for 2
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Ice Pop Mold at Foster's Homeware – price: $25 USD for 4
Buy online: Lekue Silicone Steamer at Foster's Homeware – price: $45 USD
Learn more: Arthur Quentin - web site in French only
Learn more: Lékué
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
posted @ Wednesday, April 30, 2008 11:20 AM | Feedback (2)
I visited the Poggenpohl showroom in Boston this winter. For a modernist like me, seeing the MODERN PURISM collection was a real treat. I would like someday to own one of those kitchens.
Design for the Way You Live
Poggenpohl makes amazing storage system. Everything has its place with cute containers and spacers. I was going to talk about their cool storage system for the kitchen. As I assembled my montage, a trend emerged. Therefore, I will talk about kitchen layouts.
If you planning a new kitchen, the first thing you should consider is how you like to live and entertain. By answering these questions, you will make the space fits your lifestyle. Then, you can start to look at finishes and nifty storage gadgets.
I must stress out that you must design for the way you live, not the way you dream of living. So be true to who you and your family are.
Avoid the Good Look, Bad Layout Syndrome
My husband and I visited a condominium showroom last week-end. Very European, modern architecture but one thing strikes me on the larger unit: the lack of counter spaces. The architect designed a cool kitchen but honestly, I would feel cramped in it.
The 15 feet island was broken down by the stove and then the sink. The fridge and a pantry sit tall at each end. Where is my work triangle? At the end, I never had more than 2 to 3 feet of continuous counter. I imagine myself entertaining. The island would be impractical for a buffet table. It looks great but I do not think I will enjoy cooking in this kitchen.
My advice is to go beyond the look and first examine the design layout. Look can always be altered. But layout flaws are pricey to correct.
How to Plan for Great Design?
Examine these kitchens from Poggenpohl. Each one fits a story. The red kitchen is designed for a family that cooks together or for people who hire staff at parties. That kitchen spreads over 3 rows instead of 2; something we do not see often. If you have a big enough space, it is probably great because you will not bump with each others.
I enjoy a layout like you see on the bottom pictures. Style wise they look great. One or two persons can easily cook in it and I got a long space for a buffet station. Having a preparation area where my friends can sit while I am cooking is also high on my list.
My Top 5 kitchen design tips:
- Consider the flow of movements, the entrances and how the appliances open. Aim for more than the minimal clearance.
- Collect lots of pictures of kitchen you like, analyze them and write down what you like about each one. Share this information with your kitchen designer.
- Make a list of your priorities. Go back to the list when you need to make tough decisions.
- Be flexible. Designing a kitchen is tricky. The shape of your dream kitchen may not fit into your space. If you say what features are important to you and how you plan to use your kitchen, your talented kitchen designer will find a solution that satisfies your needs.
- Make an inventory of your cookware, dinnerware, glassware and small appliances. Consider how often do you do grocery? Do you buy really need to buy in bulk? You need enough storage.
As for the nifty kitchen storage systems, do not worry. I will talk about them later.
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: Poggenpohl
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Tuesday, April 29, 2008 5:35 PM | Feedback (1)
Toast and Tables talked about the art of table setting yesterday. Sarah Dennis made the point that formal entertaining is a disappearing act. Sadly, I must agree with her.
I feel there are times that call for strict etiquette and beautiful table manners. It is one way to clearly state that an event is out of ordinary. All this made me realized that I was overdue for a post on table etiquette. I will review a few rules in well mannered eating customs.
Napkins and Flatware
The napkin at a formal dinner sits at the center of the plate. The fold must be simple. The place card is put on top of the napkin. Place cards are a must at a formal dinner party.
Silverware is used for formal dinner. Stainless steel cutlery is reserved for less formal events. Some people prefer eating the fish course with fish utensils made of stainless steel to avoid the metal reaction with lemon.
Soup and Fish Utensils
In a formal dinner, there can be from 6 to 12 courses. The rule is that you cannot put more than 3 utensils on each side. The idea is to leave comfortable space between each place setting.
The solution is to bring the extra utensils during the meal. Based on the menu, the soup spoon and the fish utensils are often brought to the table before serving. If you bring utensils at the table, the servers will put them in a tray for carrying.
British versus French Formal Table Setting
The formal table chart is set according to the British rule. One huge difference between the two cultures is that no butter knife and bread plate appears on the French table. In fact, the sales director at Arthur Quentin explained to me the other day that old French dinnerware ceramists adjusted their production for the North American market. Now they make the bread plate and butter dish.
Butter is never served at a formal dinner. Bread is optional and it only serves with certain dishes. In fact, bread cannot be served before the meal has begun. You put the bread on the tablecloth in France.
Dessert Cutlery
The dessert utensils are allowed on the table at the top of the plate. It is a common method but it is not the most elegant one. If the dessert utensils are already on the table, the server must then move the fork on the left and the spoon on the right of the place setting before serving the cheese or dessert course.
In the ultimate formal table setting, dessert utensils are brought at the table just before serving the cheese or dessert course. It feels so much more sophisticated. Visually, it also makes a better tabletop from the start.
Before serving cheese or dessert, the table should be cleared of everything except the centerpieces. The serving staff will clean the tablecloth with a crumb collector and carry the crumbs with a small plate. You probably have seen this practice in high end restaurants. Cheese and dessert silverware is then placed on the table.
Casual Luxury Table Accessory
Knife rests are a stylish table accessory if you plan to reuse the knives for more than one course. Do not put the knife on the knife rest when you are setting the table. The guests will deposit the knife on the knife rest between the courses to avoid spoiling the tablecloth. The knife rests signal to your guests that they should keep their knife. Knife rests are used exclusively in casual dinner.
There is no need for knife rests at a formal dinner. The utensils intended for the course are always removed at the end of each course at a formal dinner.
Stylish Tableware Accessories
If you are looking for items to set a formal table for yourself or as a wedding gift, check out these luxurious items.
- Butter Dish by Ercuis at Bloomingdales – price: $87 USD
- Fish fork and knife from Isatis Flatware Collection by Guy Degrenne – designed by Agnes Descamps
- Silverplated Galet Knife Rests by Christofle at artedona – price: $210.60 for a set of 4
- Vertigo Individual Butter Dish by Christofle designed by Andree Putman at Bloomingdales – price: $215 USD
- Vertigo Knife Rests by Christofle designed by Andree Putman, set of 4 available at Bloomingdales
- Crumb Collector Ramasse-miettes inox de poche at MeilleurDuChef.com – price: 4.60 €
- Alessi Ala Crumb Collector by Achille Castiglioni at All Modern – price: $30 USD
Have a look at the top picture that Sarah published on Toast and Tables. It is fine example of a formal place setting. It showcased China by Lenox, Stemware by Waterford/Wedgwood, Flatware by Vera Wang and a Tablecloth by Sferra.
>>> Sourcing:
Via: Disappearing Act: In this casual world, is formal passé? [Toast and Tables]
Categories:
GIFT ideas
BIG events
TABLEWARE
posted @ Tuesday, April 29, 2008 2:05 PM | Feedback (1)
I am certain that many sessions of Guitar Hero or Rock Band will happen in graduation parties this year. These games create an ambiance immediately.
With some bars hosting Guitar Hero nights, you can say that this video game is the new karaoke.
Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters by Fred
I introduced last year the fun cocktail accessories by Fred & Friends. Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters were designed in 2005. But I did not try them until now.
So I was glad when Anouk, the owner of giftOsphere (CadOsphere in French) told me that she added to her inventory Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters by Fred & Friends. I met Anouk through the social media events in Montreal. She is really nice. Her online store, CadOsphere ships in Canada and internationally.
CadOsphere supplied me with two samples of each for my test drive. When my husband saw them, he changed the theme of an upcoming Wii sport party to a Guitar Hero party. He craves for the Rock Band game. I am worried that those hip ice cube trays will give him an excuse. ;-)
Result of My Test Drive
I had two sets of each so I can check the consistency of the ice cubes. Wow, it really works! Because the moulds are made of silicone, removing the cubes from the mould works like a charm.
I took me a while to get the pictures I wanted. The ice cube kept their shape as they melted. I made one guitar where the handle was not as deep in the ice but it functions as well as the others.
Literal party theme and decorations are typically my thing. But in this case it works fine. I am telling you: Fred Cool Jazz and Cool Shooters will be a hit at a Guitar Hero party. At that price, it does not cost a lot to create an ambiance.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Cool Jazz ice cube tray at CadOsphere – price: $8.95 CAD
Buy online: Cool Shooters ice cube tray at CadOsphere – price: $10.95 CAD
Learn more: Fred & Friends
Categories:
FOOD + drinks
PARTY supplies
posted @ Monday, April 28, 2008 5:05 PM | Feedback (5)
I adore custards for their smoothness and velvety texture. From what I read this morning, custards produce the best chocolate puddings in the world.
In the United States, many Chefs wrote on their menu Pudding instead of Pot de crème to trigger the emotional connection that people have with puddings. But the best puddings are in reality Pot de Crème, a French recipe. In Quebec, we will call it Pot de crème.
I am showing you again the delicious Chocolate pot-de-crème, caramel and Maldon salt that my husband enjoyed at Laloux last winter.
Custard is a creamy preparation made with eggs and cream or milk, thickened with heat. Some recipes call for a bain-marie (double boiler) while other do it on a skillet. But one thing for sure, always melt your chocolate in a double boiler.
Not your Grand Mother Pudding Recipe
Melissa Clark wrote an article about her quest for the perfect chocolate pudding at home.
Melissa started by saying that she imagined an idyllic US grand mother all her life but now she had to switch her mind to a French Grandma. When she learned the trick about the Pot de crème, she decided to try 4 recipes involving custards in one way or another.
Dark Chocolate Custard
While we are on the subject, I could not resist spotlighting a recipe from Béatrice of La Tartine Gourmande. She is the master of little pots after all. And I was curious to see how a French expatriate living in Boston makes her custard.
One important trick given by Béa with her Dark Chocolate Custard recipe is how to save your custard. If you let it boil, your ruin your custard. But all you need to do are a few simple steps to make your custard smooth and creamy again.
Serving a chocolate custard or pudding with fresh fruits instead of whipped cream makes the dish not only healthier but lighter. With temperature rising, that freshness will be welcome at the dining table.
What do you think?
Any of these 5 recipes would make a delightful dessert for your family and your guests. Which recipe inspires you the most? Do you have a trick of your own?
>>> Sourcing:
Via: You Call That Pudding, Grandma? by Melissa Clark [New York Times] – photo by Francesco Tonelli
Recipe: Giving in to Dark Chocolate Custard — Craquer pour un pot de crème au chocolat noir [La Tartine Gourmande] – photo by Béatrice Peltre
Middle Picture: Pot de crème at Laloux – photo by Kim Vallée
Categories:
EVERYDAY
FOOD + drinks
DISHING tips
posted @ Monday, April 28, 2008 12:14 PM | Feedback (1)
To answer a reader request, I searched for more sources of Koziol. This time I searched in Canada.
I told you this week that was harder to find retailers in North America for Koziol. A sad thing!
A Confirmed Retailer in Montreal
I am happy to report that a small retailer in Montreal carries many Koziol products. Chez Farfelu Maison just received a new shipment of cool kitchen and bathroom accessories.
Missing Opportunities
As many small retailers in Quebec, Chez Farfelu Maison does not have a Web site. Specialized independent retailers often carry unique stuff but the lack of a well documented Web site makes the task of finding them a lot harder. I made 7 phone calls to dig one retailer that carries Koziol.
I think that retailers are missing on a great opportunity. With the current trend towards fun and colorful housewares and interior design, this should create a demand for Koziol products. A design that might not have exists in the past. Moreover, Koziol products are affordable for the masses.
I just sent an email to the Canadian distributor. I hope to get news soon It was quick (15 minutes in a Sunday afternoon, I should have checked back my email before posting). Diana Arn suggested Chez Farfelu Maison and Crash.
Update: Paulla Maxey of Crash contacted me. She told that they carry a fairly extensive inventory in Koziol and review the line continually for updates.
I dug so far three Canadian retailers:
Chez Farfelu Maison
838 Mont-Royal Avenue East
Montreal, QC H2J 1X1
p 514.528.8842
Crash
1551 Johnston Street, Unit 7
Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
p 604.684.9922
open daily 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m
- I found a store on eBay Canada Your New Gift with a few items. Unfortunately the coolest products I presented to you are not in the inventory except for the Pic Up.
I keep you posted on as I discover new sources.
April 29th, 2008 Update: Diana Arn also sent me retailers for Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary.
RELATED POST:
+ Bring Happiness in Your Kitchen with Koziol
Categories:
KITCHEN tools
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Sunday, April 27, 2008 3:24 PM | Feedback (4)
Tea Forté showed its care for design from the start when they introduced their pyramid shape tea bags. The unique Silken-Tea-Infusers that are individually hand crafted feel luxurious. Many brides and grooms sent a delightful message with them as wedding party favors.
Innovative Ice Tea Pot
With the warm weather, we are longing for iced tea concoctions. Tea Forté Reinvent a classic. I have to agree when their ad says
Fresh and authentic flash-chilled iced teas with a boldly original tableside presentation.
Drinking tea is good for you and makes you feel good. Offer a few moments of relaxation to your mom by giving her this revolutionary brewing pitcher. Operating it is at easy as 1, 2 3.
- Pour boiling water over infuser
- Steep 3 to 5 minutes
- Pour over ice and enjoy!
If your mom likes a hot ice tea, she will probably appreciate the Morehouse Glass. This double-walled glass ensemble keeps your tea hot while remaining cool to the touch. A glass cover keeps your tea hot for a longer period of time.
Stylishly Modern Hot Tea Cup
If your mother is a fan of the Tea Forté, she will appreciate this elegant porcelain tea cup ensemble. Café Cup custom cover reveals the signature leaf and keeps the tea hot while steeping. Imagine serving your tea in those cups at your next dinner party. It is a beautiful sight for the stylish hostess.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Tea Forté Brewing Pitchers - two pitchers and lid – price: $42 USD
Buy online: Morehouse Glass double-walled tea cup by Tea Forté – price: $22 USD
Buy online: Café Cup by Tea Forté – price: $20 USD
Categories:
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 10:40 PM | Feedback (0)
After beauty products, why not talk going out purses? Some women go crazy for shoes. I enjoy beautiful shoes but I prefer purses.
Every stylish woman should own at least a collection of purses to accessorize with her outfits. As I go to many cocktail events for business and pleasures, evening purses are a must for me.
New Going Out Handbag
My closet will host a new going out handbag soon. I like purses with a personality. Coriander, the latest pattern at Oktak seduced me. I selected the paprika color because bright colors are popular for summer 2008.
I bought my first going out handbag from Oktak last summer. The unique frame purse cleverly integrates the closing mechanism in the handle. I was surprised by how well it works. The design carries a feminine vintage vibe that I enjoy.
Besides style, the ideal night purse is big enough to carry your lipstick, a pen, a coin purse, a cell phone and one key on a key chain. The best one has room for a small camera. It sounds a lot but that it what I typically need when I go out.
Functional and Cute
Mothers can be fashionista too. If you mom harmonizes her handbag to her outfit on a daily basis, simplify her life. Getting her a few pouches for her makeup, pens and papers, store her bills will speed up the transfer of her things. Moreover, everything is easier to find when they are nicely organized.
The medium frame pouch is also available in the new coriander pattern. The frame pouch is perfect for carrying cosmetics, iPod, digital camera, cell phone and everything else that fits in your palm.
The zipper pouches are cute. A nice detail is the two glass beads attached to a leather cord. The eyeglass cases are adorable. I like their retro vibe, definitely designed for a woman.
The small frame pouch can be used as a coin purse or as a jewelry case. This can be handy when you go to the gym. You can create a set by matching some coin purses to a XL frame pouch (clutch) or a frame purse.
The Oktak bags are handmade. A Japanese girl named Aki Takada who lives in New York designed them. Since Oktak produces in small quantity, you will give something special to your mother.
Update May 3, 2008: I received my Paprika Coriander going out bag and it is lovely. I cannot wait to try it out. Great job Aki!
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: frame going out purses by Oktak – price: $65 USD
Buy online: large zipper pouch - pink flowers on turquoise – price: $19.50 USD
Buy online: medium frame pouch (square) by Oktak - raspberry coriander – price: $29 USD
Buy online: eyeglass case by Oktak - pink blossoms on green – price: $30 USD
Buy online: mini frame pouch - spring blooms on green – price: $22 USD
Categories:
GIFT ideas
HOLIDAY
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 6:34 PM | Feedback (0)
Event design is a huge market. Big brands have the monetary wealth to indulge in fabulous event decor. They make us dream and inspire us.
Let's me introduce you to the lavish creations from a prolific Australian three-dimensional design studio Gloss Creative.
Founded by Amanda Henderson in 2001, Gloss Creative merges the world of Visual Merchandising and design. They call their style Grand Simplicity. Gloss Creative works in four areas: marquees, runaways, set design and floral styling.
In case you do not know, marquee is the British term for a large tent set up for an outdoor party, reception, or exhibition. What I am showing you here are tents designed for the haute society horse races in Australia. I am talking about the Melbourne Cup Spring Racing Carnival events.
Three Party Themes
I could resist when I saw the Audrey Hepburn's Breakfast in Tiffany theme done for the Longines watches. It finished the circle that I started Monday with my beauty secrets.
Created in 2007, Fashion Topia featured shades of greens. The poufs with their velvet fabric were the stars. This marquee feels less luxurious but the layout works well for a cocktail event. People can move the seating at will to suit the social exchanges.
The Picnic Luxe Tent is adorable. I enjoy how they display the food. You could recycle this concept for a party this summer. The picnic theme can be interpreted in so many ways from a casual family style to a stylish Victorian era backdrop.
Wonderful Finger Food
I feel bad that I did not buy the February/March 2008 issue of Belle. I read this Australian magazine occasionally. The great article was published on Moët & Chandon's Le Chapiteau Merveilleux. That tent design raised the bar.
The woman Chef Shannon Bennett of the French restaurant Vue du Monde prepared the lunch platter. Guests were served vintage Moët & Chandon champagne with mini Wagyu steak sandwich, chickpea fries with dijonnaise, rabbit pithivier and the classic Peach Melba served with a modern twist on an Asian spoon. It sounds delicious.
>>> Sourcing:
Learn more: Gloss Creative
Photo credits: Bella article pictures taken by Mark Roper – Copyright pictures
Via: bye bye boring white . walls with dimension [ready 2 spark] + Gloss Creative [design to inspire]
Categories:
PARTY ideas
DISHING tips
BIG events
posted @ Saturday, April 26, 2008 2:33 AM | Feedback (1)
My blog is about harmonizing décor and beautiful things. This post does not fit the bill.
The idea of transforming a train into a showroom is cool. Sadly, IKEA did not convince me with the décor they put on. Maybe, it is a cultural thing.
Showroom On Rails
For the opening of its new store at Port Island, IKEA did a huge promotion. The Kobe Portliner Monorail was decorated with fabrics of the new IKEA collection. Each wagon featured a set of bright seating. They even add a small drape panel on every window.
Frankly, it does not really look good. IKEA fails in trying to show too much. There are too many clashing patterns in my opinion. The showroom would have been more effective if they limit to one color family. And show several ways to incorporate it into your life.
Remaking the train interior is quite an achievement. It is also a test for the quality of their fabric. Japanese trains are extremely busy. I have not read a story on who these temporary showrooms wear off. I am curious to know.
Still Running
Bold patterns were painted on the outside of the monorail. You can ride the IKEA showroom Monorail until May 6, 2008 if you happen to travel to Japan.
Q. What do you think about the IKEA showroom on rails?
>>> Sourcing:
Via: IKEA decks out Kobe train on [pinktentacle]
Photo credits: Kiyo
Categories:
HOME decor
OFF topics
TRENDS
posted @ Friday, April 25, 2008 12:52 PM | Feedback (3)
Living in a 4 season climate enhances the joy that we feel when the warm weather comes back.
It is the best time to introduce the summer 2008 collection from a brand that symbolizes Design, Happiness, Life and Values. I am talking about Koziol, the German company that was founded in 1912 by Bernhard Koziol.
Design, Happiness, Life and Values was the 4 world themes that they presented at the Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt last February. The summer 2008 Koziol collection hit the shelf mid-March 2008. I am showing my favorites.
Outdoor Entertaining
A must outdoor entertaining is the new PURE series with carafe, cups, bottle cooler and tray. A specially engineered lid keeps out dust and insects. Cool! The same lid keeps in ice cubes and lemon slices while pouring.
An ingenious combination of porcelain and plastic surrounds the AROMA series. The stylish companion for your breakfast, you can choose between a cup, an espresso cup, a cappuccino cup, a latte cup and a bowl called AROMA BIG. The AROMA series is available in orange, raspberry and tuerkis (aqua).
PIC UP is a fun Party Fork Set. Use this handy tool to serve tapas, olives, antipasti and cheese chunks. For a family barbecue party, you cannot go wrong with PIC UP.
The OXYGEN partition recalls pebbles or the bubbles in carbonated drinks. I may install an OXYGEN partition wall like in front of my urban terrace. I wish for more privacy that carries an airy lightness. The vibrant green and turquoise of OXYGEN partition elements create the perfect backdrop for my pool. It was designed by the Spanish team Harry & Camila.
Picnicware
Old products are also hot this summer. Designed in 1995 by Rainer Lehn, the FROSCHKÖNIG bottle opener wears new colors. The OLLI Lunchbox keeps food fresh and mobile since F. Person and J. Hansen designed it in 1996. What I like about this lunchbox is its form. It must be easy to carry it around.
Hanging on the tree like fruits are the cute BOSKOP Lunchboxes. You will get no problem fitting double-layer and triple-layer sandwiches inside the BOSKOP. And your fresh fruit will still be intact on destination. The cute leaves work as the snap closure. This brand new design BOSKOP emerged from the brain of Luisa Finke.
Kitchen Cleaning and Storage
TIM & TWEETIE brushes wear the cool colors of summer 2008. The are so lovable.
HEIDI is a floral tie fastener. For party favors at Mother's Day, a Sunday brunch or a bridal shower, HEIDI will enhance your packaging. And your guests can reuse this cute band. Adorned with its pretty flower, the band dependably seals bags and pouches. HEIDI opens at will, as often as you wish.
Where to Buy
The German retailer Design 3000 carries the entire Koziol catalogue. Design 3000 is a heavenly shop for me with tons of wonderful brands. They got all the colors, even in hues that I did not talk about. Koziol seems harder to find in the United States since the distributor has closed down. Design 3000 ships to the United States and internationally.
In Canada, specialized retailers across the country carry the Koziol. As usual, Canadian retailers are shy when it comes to publish their inventory online, so I cannot provide you with specific links. So shop around, you can find the Koziol products in Canada.
Sourcing:
Buy online: PIC UP Party Fork Set by Koziol at The Well Tempered Kitchen – price: $14.50 USD
Buy online: Lunchbox Boskop solid green at design 3000 – price: 9,95 €
Buy online: AROMA Latte Cup strawberry at Design 3000 – price: 12,55 EUR
Buy online: Carafe Pure transparent by Koziol - price: 14,95 EUR
Buy online: Oxygen Partition transparent turquoise - price: 4,95 EUR
Buy online: HEIDI grass - price: 1,95 EUR
Learn more: Koziol brand Web site
RELATED POST:
+ Follow-up story | My search for retailers of Koziol
Tags:
fun,
colorful,
picnic,
kitchenware,
kitchen,
entertaining with kids,
european,
modern,
outdoor party
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
KITCHEN tools
OUTDOOR
GIFT ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Thursday, April 24, 2008 3:36 PM | Feedback (4)
Kat Nouri of Modern-Twist sent me an email where she informed me of their exhibit with Rex Ray designs at SFMOMA.
I am thrilled. I think we should encourage companies that hired known artists to design their patterns. This way we get more exciting patterns on everyday items.
Matrix and Tangle by Rex Ray
Rex Ray is a fine art artist doing collages, paintings and design work,. Rex is also a celebrated graphic designer who worked extensively for the music industry. He designed book covers, more than 100 historic Bill Graham Presents rock and roll tour posters and music packaging.
Now, you can invite Rex Ray to your table with the two patterns he designed for Modern-Twist. Take your pick between Matrix and Tangle. Matrix is available in green or black. Tangle is in orange or copper. I am showing you Matrix because I enjoy it more.
Owl and Monster by Matte Stephens
The art of Matte Stephens has a naive side in the execution that charms everyone. His Owl duo and the Monster character target children. This is a kid line that will enchant young at heart adults.
Kat kindly sent me a sample of the Owl and the Monster mats. I received them today and they look even better in person. My husband thought they were pretty cool. I got the feeling they will become our breakfast placemats.
Beauty and Function
I acquired six brown Birds ‘n Trees Placemats, 2 sets of writable coasters Notz and the Vinotagz stem markers, all from Modern-Twist last winter at Lekker. So I can vouch for their excellent quality.
The 14 by 16 inches dimension of the placemat is more practical than the standard placemat size. The glasses fit comfortably on the placemat. The silk-screened non-toxic silicone feels soft to the touch. It is very sensual. They are easy to store. You can fold them or roll them without leaving any marks.
With Mother’s Day in two weeks, your mom will be happy if you show up at the door with any of the Modern-Twist Placemats.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Owl or Monster Placemat by Matte Stephens for Modern-Twist at Twig – price: $15 USD
Buy online: Matrix Placemat by Rex Ray at Modern Twist at Twig – price: $19 USD
Buy online: Tangle Placemat by Rex Ray at Modern Twist at Twig – price: $19 USD
Categories:
FAMILY style
LINENS
posted @ Thursday, April 24, 2008 12:40 AM | Feedback (0)
Modern Furniture That'll Make You Jealous is Hepper's punch line. I do not always agree with marketing slogan but in this case it is true. The beautiful room pictures illustrate that this hip pet furniture line would not clash with your home design.
I discovered Hepper last fall if I remembered correctly. If you are living with cats or a tiny dog, check out their catalogue. The cats and dog beds are available in wide range of beautiful colors. You should find one that will harmonize with your home decor.
Cool Cat Beds
Several models are proposed to fit your pet lifestyle and its preferred lounge style. Originally designed for cats, the line can be used for smaller dogs (up to 50 pounds for some models). Knowing my cats, they would enjoy these beds.
And you would not to break the bank to buy some Hepper’s pet furniture either. It costs more than the mass manufacturer ugly stuff at the pet shops. But it is but a fraction of the price of the luxury RONDO Stand by Cat Interiors.
I am on the market for a raised bed right now. My friend bought a rattan version at IKEA, his cat loves it but I want something more design. I think I found it with the Pod and the Podium. The top of the Pod is removable. In fact, the Podium is a Pod without the top. Strangely, the Podium is available in 2 more colors than the Pod. Racetrack graphite and herringbone are the two extra colors.
I like the cocooning vibe of the Nest. I imagine me moving around my cat without disturbing its sleep. The hammock style Wave Pet Bed is better suited for larger cats. If you own more than one cat, they can sleep together on the Wave bed.
Where to Buy?
Hepper operates an online store. It is unfortunate their online shop do not deliver to Canada. Especially that Vermont is so close.
Design Public also sells the Hepper cat beds with USA delivery only. Muttropolis will ship internationally but they only have the Wave and the Nest on stock. It is the Pod or the Podium that I want. If you know a Canadian retailer that carries Hepper cat furniture, I want to be informed.
About Hepper
Award-winning industrial designer Jed Crystal designed the Hepper line in his studios in Burlington, Vermont. The company is named after a cat she adopted and then nicknamed Hepper. The stylish appeal of Audrey Hepburn that I talked about yesterday on the beauty challenge continue; Hepper is short for Hepburn.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Hepper Pod Cat Bed – price: $155 USD
Buy online: Hepper Podium Cat Bed – price: $115 USD
Buy online: Hepper Nest Cad Bed – price: $95 USD
Buy online: Hepper Wave Cat Bed – price: $85 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Wednesday, April 23, 2008 10:30 AM | Feedback (0)
Recycle is good, reuse feels great! If you possess things that I do not use anymore, the green solution is to make sure someone uses your old stuff. Go ahead and unclutter your home. It makes sense economically and ecologically.
Reuse
Even if you prefer buying new products, you can still participate in the equation. You simply have to donate or to sell your old stuff. Second-hand markets are getting more popular. It helps people that are less fortunate and it reduces your footprint of the landfill.
Think twice before you buy a new thing. It is best to buy better quality items because they perform well over a longer period of time. They are the ones with the best reuse value.
The socialite never wears the same dress twice for events. So why not rent night gowns, bridesmaid dresses and even your wedding dress? A few specialized shops around the world rent high end handbags. I kept my wedding dress for 13 years now; nicely sealed like we are supposed to. I decided to sell it to a store that updates used wedding dress. I should have done it many years ago.
The same is true for your furniture, books, children toys and sport equipments. Before you throw something, ask yourself if someone can reuse it.
More Green Tips
I compiled a brief list of wonderful resources and events on green living. Here, my seven comments on the 50 Ways to Help Our Planet presented by Wire & Twine:
- One thing that I learned is that your vehicle could get up to 15% better mileage when is on the cruise control. Interesting fact!
- I hang dry most of my clothes. It preserve them longer.
- I stop buying newspapers several years ago. Too much waste. You can read the newspapers at a café for free or get informed on the Web.
- I do not need to telecommute since I live at a walking distance from my office. It is also less stressful.
- I skipped the coffee stirrer and the spoon whenever I can. You simply pour milk first and then the coffee; the mix occur naturally.
- I always download my software. Faster and no box to open.
- I do not own an answering machine. Phone companies offer a better service without cluttering my house with a machine.
These articles provide interesting green living information:
What new green initiatives are you integrating into your life? Any eco-friendly tips to share?
Sourcing:
Learn more: Free is Good Web site from Yahoo!
Via: Swissmiss
Categories:
OFF topics
TRENDS
posted @ Tuesday, April 22, 2008 1:43 PM | Feedback (1)
If you mother is the Bree Van de Kamp type who brings delicious sweets everywhere she goes, make it simple for her by giving her personalized stickers, tags or stamps for Mother's Day. I found adorable models on etsy.
Baking Stickers
LittlebeaneBoutique has several models. Pink is a dominant color is her design. She sells the stickers by sheet of 12 stickers. I like the pink mixer and whisk.
Kitchen Stamps
OfficialInitial produces well-made custom 3" by 1.5" stamp. I like the Cupcake mounted rubber stamp where the name of your mother can be printed.
I like the handle on the From the Kitchen of stamp by sweetpaperie. You have a choice of a flatware setting, a whisk or a pear.
Sweet Tags
If your mother style is more French country, she will be delighted with the Vintage Look Petits Fours Glaces tags at Bluebirdlane. The tags measures about 3 1/2" by 2 1/2" each. Ribbon will vary.
Any one of these would make a fantastic gift for any culinary guru. It will show to your mother that you value her cooking.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Personalized Pink Mixer Stickers by LittlebeaneBoutique – price: $4.95 USD for 12
Buy online: Personalized WHISK Baking Stickers by LittlebeaneBoutique – price: $4.95 USD for 12
Buy online: Custom Cupcake mounted rubber stamp by OfficialInitial – price: $25 USD
Buy online: From the Kitchen of stamp by sweetpaperie – price: $19.95 USD
Buy online: Vintage Look Petits Fours Glaces tags by Bluebirdlane – price: $5 USD for 8
Categories:
PAPER goods
GIFT ideas
FAMILY style
posted @ Tuesday, April 22, 2008 10:24 AM | Feedback (1)
If you have followed me for a while, you probably know that I adore the UK store Habitat. For summer 2008, Habitat stylists did not fail to impress me.
Once again, Habitat stimulates our imagination for casual entertaining. Looking at Habitat setting teaches how to create a unique experience. I enjoy especially their kid theme outdoor rooms.
Kid Party Theme
The camping trip in the backyard is an archetypal kid party theme. You With outstanding decorations, your outdoor party will stand apart. Use great props to create the theatrical illusion. Plan several activities to keep the kids occupied all night long.
The GERONIMO tents are simply adorable. I cannot imagine one kid that would not be thrilled to have a sleep over in these cute tents. Another must have for a kid party is OLI, a fresh olive green pigment lacquered eucalyptus kid picnic table.
The second picture showcases the MAUI deckchairs and the MINI WORLD rugs. Cushions play a huge role in a kid rooms. Here, you see the BELLA toy, the MAP cushion and the BIG MOUTH cushion.
MAUI is available in adult and kid sizes in saffron, orange, ginger, nut, aqua, charcoal, multi-color lined, multi-color urban pattern.
Outdoor dining and picnicware
The delicately neutral floral patterns of UTOPIA melamine picnicware collection goes with solid color dinnerware. Make your own assortment of round tray, plates, bowl, drinking cups, salad bowl and servers.
For an eclectic look at your next outdoor party, mix porcelain plates with earthenware bowls with melamine serving ware. You can even mix the LANDSCAPE porcelain dinner plates with COULEUR pieces and use the round UTOPIA tray. Punch your table by selecting an accent color from COULEUR - which is the French word for color.
I hope these three pictures will inspire you to host an amazing outdoor party in the coming weeks.
Sourcing:
Buy online: OLI kid picnic table at Habitat – price: £149
Buy online: MAUI deckchair in saffron – price: £6
Buy online: UTOPIA round tray – price: £8
Buy online: LANDSCAPE dinner plate – price: £6
Buy online: COULEUR earthenware dinnerware set in red – price: £35 for 16 pieces
Categories:
OUTDOOR
KIDS party
TABLEWARE
FAMILY style
posted @ Tuesday, April 22, 2008 12:35 AM | Feedback (1)
The latest episode of HGTV's Designer Guys was just in time to close my Earth Day coverage. The Designer Guys were called to give shape to the Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge at Toronto International Film Festival 2007. Reusable, reclaimed and recycled act as the foundation.
My favorite ecological foundation, the World Wildlife Fund-Canada was official charitable partner. They raise funds and provides information for their Save Our Climate campaign.
Located in a 1250 square foot banquet room at InterContinental Toronto Yorkville hotel, the room had a temporary facelift to fit the event. The facelift required the use of temporary solutions that would not damage the original surfaces.
Whenever you host a large event, a total superficial facelift is something you can envision doing if you have a huge budget. This way the banquet room does not dictate a look of your event. Naturally, you need to rent your space from a flexible space provider. The banquet room has to be booked for a longer period. For example, the chandeliers and the drapes were removed from the room for the green event. The hotel needs time before and after to execute it. You can imagine that the supplementary costs can add on pretty fast.
Changing the Face of a Banquet Room
The traditional pattern rug on the room really clashed with the green design. Therefore, a cork floor was installed on top of the rug. Since the floor is installed with a clapping system without glue or nails, you can remove the floor as easily as you put it. It also improves the sound quality of the room as the cork sub-surface absorbs more sound. If you plan a large event or need to set up a trade show, a cork floor like this is a wonderful solution.
A living wall was installed by Elevated Landscape Technologies. I like the idea. But the plants used could have been cuter; it was too much wild flower for me. The most daring and successful element from my viewpoint is the giant art installations made of insulated concrete forms from Greenblock. The insulated concrete forms cover entirely the perimeter walls. It completely redefined the space. Again, this is an idea to borrow of you want to design a booth for a trade show.
As the founder of the Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge, Debra Goldblatt talked about the need to educate and create even more awareness within the movie community:
There has never been a better trend than everybody attempting to go GREEN. We not only wanted to continue providing visiting talent a great Canadian lounge to visit, but during a week of frivolity and fun, use this opportunity to support a charity and continue educating others!
The three Designer Guys, Allen Chan, Anwar Mukhayesh and Matt Davis met the expectations of Debra Goldblatt, the president of Rock It Promotions. I invite you to read the article on BizBash Toronto to learn more about the eco-friendly products that were used in the Tastemakers Green Room.
More Green Living Ideas
To do your part for the environment on a daily basis, check out my latest posts on green living:
Sourcing:
Learn more: Tastemakers Celebrity Gift Lounge Goes Green on BizBash Toronto
Categories:
PARTY ideas
TRENDS
BIG events
posted @ Monday, April 21, 2008 5:51 PM | Feedback (0)
My Two friends Muriel Ide of MI2 and Nathalie of Gustav & Nat voyagent tagged me. I am glad!
This tagging exercise gives me the chance to talk about a topic that is dear to my heart. I never spoke about it on my blog. I am talking about makeup and beauty products.
My mother taught me that a woman never goes out without makeup. She is a feminine, business woman. She taught me how to properly cleanup my skin and apply a skin cream when I was 13 years old. I cannot be absolutely sure that I have fewer wrinkles because of my daily skincare routine but it does hurt for sure. So why take the chance?
My Skincare and Makeup Favorites
My Foundation: Chanel, without hesitation. You do not feel it and your skin looks perfect. I mixed two: Mat Lumiere on my nose (a darker shade during spring to fall) and Vitalumiere anywhere else. In the middle of summer, I switch to Mat Lumiere only. I always apply my makeup with a brush. It gives a more natural finish and it is more ecological than the triangles that you throw away.
My Mascara: I still not have found the ideal one for me. I use lengthening mascara.
Day Cream: Always from Clarins. I alternate which one I use from the Clarins line to fit the season and my skin needs. I always put a morning lifting eye gel (a gel is better under the makeup) and an anti-wrinkle evening eye cream. Protecting the eyes and the neck is crucial to maintain a young appearance.
My Beauty Product Brand: Clarins. Runner-up: Chanel for their cleaning products
My Essential Beauty Product: bi-phase eye makeup remover. I alternate between Precision’s Gentle Biphase Eye Makeup Remover by Chanel or Instant Eye Make-Up Remover by Clarins. I think the Chanel remove more, faster.
My Favorite Makeup Product: M.A.C. for the colorful wide arrays of eye shadows. It stays wonderful on my eyes. Lately, my eyes stand out with the Phone Number Eye Kohl liner and the Blackground Paint Pot. Eye shadows cannot exist without the liners.
My Perfume: Prada Eau de Parfum during winter. During fall and spring: Prada Eau de Parfum Tendre. For summer: Dior Addict 2. The Limited Edition Dior Addict 2 Sparkle in Pink is divine for a night out.
Three Products to bring on a Deserted Island (besides solar) : Dove soap bars, Aveeno moisturizing cream, a duo: Precision’s Radiance Cleaning Foam + Soothing Toner by Chanel. I know the count is 4. So imagine how I must be clever to pack everything with the new air travel regulations.
Woman I admire for her beauty: Right now, I do not have a particular one. More than a decade ago, Isabella Rossellini was on the top of my list. She will be a brunette for sure.
Woman with the Best Sense of Style: I do not have anyone that I fit the bill lately. The only name that comes to my mind is Audrey Hepburn (I do not copied on Murielle). Audrey Hepburn was stylish, cheerful and beautiful. I watched Breakfast in Tiffany Saturday night.
My Ultimate Dream (but I do not believe in selling my soul to the devil for it): A modern architecture house masterpiece sitting on the top of a hill in California or in Europe
How Do I Define Womanhood: Grace with a sense of style.
My Favorite Fashion Publication: I do not have any because I feel disconnected with that the magazines are showcasing us lately. So I stop buying them.
If you like designer jewelry, Muriel Ide is very talented. She creates jewelry in her spare time. MI2 is where you can admire her latest creations.
Next challengers
I figure out that 3 is not enough, 7 is too much. I am tagging 5 girls from my blogging circle:
Eden of Bargainista
Janick of Fonetik - sadly I found out that she does not wear makeup
Lara of Ready 2 Spark
Lynne of Swishlist
Sarah of Toast and Tables
April 22nd, Update: Kelly of Design Crush liked the idea. I inspired her to reveal her beauty secrets. She is a Lancome fan.
Categories:
OFF topics
posted @ Monday, April 21, 2008 2:06 PM | Feedback (9)
These days, I am thinking about how I can set up a studio place to demonstrate actual tabletop settings. I also need a craft station plus a storage cabinet for my props. I am reviewing more and more products, so where do I store them?
My Dilemma
I could convert some spaces at home to serve double duty or I could simulate a dining room at the office. Each option has its pros and cons. Our commercial lease will finish at the end of the year and we do not plan to renew it at this point. So I feel it would be a temporary thing if I do it at our current office location. But it can also be a testing ground to see what works and what is not.
My Inspirations on Flickr
I was in search for some inspirations from the creative crowd. I found plenty on Flickr. I particularly like the happy color card catalog reduc uploaded by bitsandbobbins. This is from an Apartment Therapy Semi Home Tour.
Since I was on the spring cleaning mindset, unclutter was in order. Pink Loves Brown is the brain who designs and sells stationery and cards. I check out her studio. I felt in love with her order sorting boxes; it is so cute. Nicole also writes the Making it Lovely blog.
What is next?
Ideally, I may need to set up a craft room in both places. I took the first step today. My mother, who lives out of town, came to visit me this morning. I gave her a ton of stuff that I do not used anymore. So far, I envision a few good spots for my prop storage. I will keep you posted on my developments.
If you possess your own craft room or creative studio, what is the best thing about it?
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Sunday, April 20, 2008 11:08 PM | Feedback (1)
I felt in love with the work of Fernanda Bourlot, an artist from Buenos Aires, Argentina who now lived in Boston, Massachusetts. She likes simple things that feel luxurious. As suggested by the name, everything at Simplemente Blanco is from the white palette.
The Design Philosophy
Her collection carries a modern rustic charm. Simplemente Blanco believes in balance, symmetry, calmness and pureness. Fernanda Boulot design brings us peace via the simplicity of the forms and the serenity of the spaces. Simplemente Blanco loves fresh interiors and I would add: comfort.
I compiled two lists of outstanding gift ideas. You bring on any of them as a housewarming gift or as a hostess gift that you are staying over for a few days.
For the Kitchen
The Oval Wooden Tray is perfect for the upcoming summer cottage season. From the Eating section, check out the Special China section and the dandelion table linens.
Gardeners Knee Pad is a must for anyone who enjoys gardening. It can be practical and decorative. You may question the wisdom of a white textile if you wish to use the object. But if you can wash in the machine, this knee pad will stay clean. Unfortunately, the Web site contains no product details.
The flower carrier is wonderful. You can also use it as a shopping bag when you buy bunches of flowers at the flower market. A message to my friends and family: this flower carrier is on my wish list for my upcoming birthday.
For the Bathroom
Fernanda Bourlot thinks that a home must contains just what they need and nothing else. You do not need to forgo style and beauty to live by this philosophy. Her bathroom collection is a proof of that.
You can decorate your bathroom with pleasing bathroom products. The irresistible Assorted Soap Boxes certainly qualify.
The Golf Ball Soap is a set that any hostess can provide to her stay over guests. Mark the Golf Ball Soap Bag on your Father’s Day gift ideas. The linen farmer bag is a wonderful packaging. I think it looks more precious this way.
Where to shop
These were my favorites but there are more to see of their Web site. The showroom is