HOME decor
design tips plus a look at how interior design and home decor lead to better entertaining
Cabanas are useful and charming. If I got a summer cottage, I would install a few so my guests can get change and put their stuff for the day. Having a cabana helps to keep your house clutter free while you are hosting a beach party.
I was charmed by the cabana next to the pool from the June 2008 of Canadian House and Home magazine. This cabana is available at Fresh Home and Garden in Toronto.
Typical white and navy nautical stripes are not my thing. I prefer the cool turquoise with earthy red shown here.
Thanks to Alex Newman and the Canadian House and Home styling team for presenting this beach house inspired by the Hamptons. The article is titled Water Colored in the magazine.
>>> Sourcing:
Photos credits: Virginia MacDonald for Canadian House and Home June 2008 issue, see pages 134-135 – rights reserved
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
posted @ Thursday, May 15, 2008 5:05 PM | Feedback (0)
If you guess that the couple who owns the urban organic modern home store Stylegarage in Toronto lives in a lofty space, you are right. Except that they accomplished the look in a suburban duplex.
Urban Modern Style
Their interior design borrows to the loft-chic style. You can feel the warm sensibility of the organic moderns style. The house has a lot of warmth due to an extensive use of wood.
Amanda Schuler and David Podsiaglo live in this house with their 18-month-old son. Let’s review their cool entertaining spaces that are featured on the June 2008 issue of Canadian House and Home magazine.
Dining Room
You may say another chalkboard. For me, it triggers childhood memories. So I still dream of a chalkboard wall in my own home.
The pendant light, cool wall-mounted wine rack, the table and chairs are all from their own Gus* at Stylegarage collection. They designed and manufactured the furniture under the brand Gus Design Group in Toronto.
Discover the design philosophy behind their kitchen and dining room by watching a video interview on Canadian House and Home. You get a better feel of the size and layout of the space in the video.
Low Maintenance, No Fuss Backyard
The backyard is a great example of a low maintenance urban backyard. A perfect solution if you prefer entertaining to gardening or taking care of the pool. Even if you prefer a different style of furniture, you can get inspired by the layout and divisions of the space. Make adjustments to fit your lifestyle and priorities.
I really like to get the long wood tray to serve my baguette bread. It looks so modernly chic.
>>> Sourcing:
Video: Loft-Style Living [Canadian House and Home]
Photo credits: by David Bagosy for Canadian House and Home June 2008 issue – pages 136-141 – rights reserved
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
FAMILY style
posted @ Thursday, May 15, 2008 2:58 PM | Feedback (1)
A bold red is not the typically color people would choose when they selecting their doors. But look at how great these two kitchen look.
A bold red like that used to be restricted to high-end Italian and German kitchens. Ikea made the high-gloss red kitchen accessible.
People often ignore vibrant colors when it comes to big items because they are afraid to get bored with a few years. In reality, whatever the color, you will get bored at some point. Playing safe has its merits but it can also lacks personality.
My Own Experience Living with Red
We renovated our current home in 1995. Our house was built around 1860.
I believe that there must be a connection between the interior and the exterior of a building. Since I leaned towards a modern look, we opted for shaker-style door in natural maple. But I added a twist. I alternated the color of the inside panels between the natural maple and bright red panel tint. I selected a sort of crimson red almost fire engine red. Some days, I regret not having more red panels.
I have seen elegant rooms with a fuchsia painted wall. The color alone does not determine if a room is stylish or not. It is the ensemble that produces the overall effects. You can also tone down a stronger color with the other surfaces of a room if you have a change of heart. If you renovate your home this summer, do not be afraid to be adventurous if you feel like it.
Introducing Abstrakt Kitchen Collection at Ikea
The low cost of an Akurum/Abstrakt kitchen at Ikea greatly reduces the risk. As the new advertising illustrates, a high-gloss bright red kitchen can look very stylish if you put sophisticated wall tiles, install a real stone or a man-made solid surface countertop, lay down dark flooring and hang cool light fixtures.
The bottom picture has a fun vibe. Both layouts are great for entertaining. I prefer the kitchen on the top. It represents a trendier style. While we're on the subject, I will publish early next week a post about the social kitchen from a guest blogger, the certified kitchen designer Susan Serra. I read it; you will not want to miss it. Stay tuned for Susan’s excellent advices.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Abstrakt kitchen cabinet doors at Ikea – starting at $45 CAD
Buy online Akurum/Abstrakt High-Gloss Kitchen at Ikea – starting at $2980 CAD for a 10’ x 10’ kitchen
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Friday, May 09, 2008 5:20 PM | Feedback (2)
Dressing up your room with the right wallpapers adds sophistication to a dining room or living room. I typically prefer to put wallpaper on a single wall or two walls, depending on the room configuration.
British brands have a long history of making great patterns. Have a look at these patterns from Graham & Brown. This is a brand that teamed up with several designers to bring you striking designs.
A Look at My Favorites
Sophia from the Monsoon collection reinterprets Art Nouveau damask. You will be surprised how sophisticated a fuchsia wall can be.
No need to install wall paneling with Phantom from the Umbra collection. In case you did not already know, the uber stylish Canadian brand Umbra teamed up with Graham & Brown to produce its first ever wallpaper collection. The frame illustrations of Huddle pattern can bring something different to a room.
Mystique Avocado by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen takes its inspiration from the delicate lattices and Jali screens that help shade colonial plantation houses on the fringes of the Caribbean Sea. In a typical Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen design, he injected a jet look to this classic design.
The Red/Orange Alice designed by Marcel Wanders is highlighted by delicacy and intricacy in its detailing. The Marcel Wanders collection costs for £35 for a single roll; other collections are available for £30.
Hot pink Midsummer (not shown) adds drama. The beautiful leaf silhouette design fuse silver shine with hot pink matt.
Wallpapers are fashionable once again. The new wallpapers can be a great source of inspiration if you redecorate a room.
>>> Sourcing:
Buy online: Online store of Graham & Brown
Buy online: Huddle Wallpaper at Umbra Online Store – price: $39 CAD
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Friday, May 02, 2008 2:35 PM | Feedback (0)
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]
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HOME decor
posted @ Wednesday, April 30, 2008 10:53 PM | Feedback (3)
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)
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)
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)
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 a by-appointment only. Consumers can visit Simplemente Blanco retail place called On the Side located at 40 Waltham Street in South End, Boston. On my next trip to Boston, I will schedule a visit for sure.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Simplemente Blanco
Via: What To Do... Fernanda Bourlot on decor8
Categories:
HOME decor
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
LINENS
HOSTESS gifts
posted @ Saturday, April 19, 2008 1:19 PM | Feedback (0)
My friend Jennifer Mitchell of Design Hole is in Milan right now for The Salone Internazionale del Mobile. This is the leading event in the home/contract furnishing sector at global level. If you want to what’s new and really capture the trends, the Salone Milano is the best to go.
Being an interior design from Detroit, Jennifer is right in her element. Obviously, she reports daily on what she is seeing at the Salone Milano 2008. Looking at her reports so far, I identify one trend: the return of the wire frames as a key furniture design.
Emu Outdoor Living
The Re-trouvé collection designed by Patricia Urquiola for Emu adds a feminine touch to the garden. The wire is available in several colors. You can see the influence of French classical chairs in the Emu Outdoor Collection. This is not surprising since Re-trouvé translates to To Find Again.
Pattern Excellence for Moroso
The mix of colors and patterns on this settee, pouf and chair is amazing. This is also work of Patricia Urquiola but this time for Moroso. Check out Design Hole for more details.
Sourcing:
Via: Marvelous Moroso on Design Hole
Via: Emu and Beautiful Outdoor Living on Design Hole
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Thursday, April 17, 2008 10:11 AM | Feedback (0)
Umbra is announcing the launch of their stylish eco-friendly collection designs. Their effort concentrates on the materials used to manufacture their products. It is a step on the right direction.
Giving a Second Life to Paper
Adin Mumma created from stacked reprocessed paper and recyclable paper board frame the Pulp Bulletin Board. The result is a unique yet practical bulletin board for your home office or the kitchen message center.
Degradable Plastic Trash Cans
Once in the landfill, the new manufactured Umbra trash cans will break down 10 times faster than regular plastic. It would be marvelous when the degradable plastic that biodegrades in 20 years instead of 200 become the norm. Until then, we have to start looking at companies that are making an effort.
At $8.50 per Garbino Can, it does not cost more to be eco-friendly. In the late 1990, I bought a few Garbino cans designed by Karim Rashid. I still like them. The Artala Cans designed by Joshua Davis/David Quan are amusing with their cool printed designs.
Eco-friendly Wood
Relaxing in our bath is one of the delightful pleasures in life. Made of bamboo, Aquala Bathtub Caddy has a built-in wine glass holder and fold-away book support.
The Rama Frame series is made of plantation grown wood. The green idea is to not destroy more wild life and their natural habitat to admire our pictures.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Pulp Bulletin Board by Umbra – price: $47.50 CAD
Buy online: Aquala Bathtub Caddy by Umbra – price: $47.50 CAD
Buy online: Rama frame by Umbra – price: $19 CAD
Buy online: Garbino Can by Umbra – price: $8.50 CAD
Buy online: Artala Can by Umbra – price: $18 CAD
Categories:
HOME decor
GIFT ideas
posted @ Wednesday, April 16, 2008 4:21 PM | Feedback (0)
The May 2008 of Canadian House & Home is the Green Issue. It is full of eco-friendly advices and products. What caught my eyes are 3 entertaining details.
Trough sink
The first one is an advertising picture by Ciot. The marble slat is gorgeous. It looks so modern.
I wish I have the space to install a through sink. Typically, you integrate the through sink in your preparation area. When you entertain friends, you use this long and narrow sink to chill bottles of wines, champagnes and beers. Check out the model by Kohler. This trough sink exterior dimensions are 60" x 8-1/4" with a basin depth of 5-15/16".
Round Dining Table
The elegance of the classical round table is irrefutable. A round table of the right size promotes group conversation.
This upscale Elte dining table is a reproduction of the Georgian style. The table has a rosewood cross banding around blistered mahogany veneer over an insert base. The Plain saber legs with brass casters make it easy to move around when you serving a standing buffet party.
One special detail about this table is that the leaves attached to the outer edges to preserve the true circle shape when extended. All these special elements explain the high price tag.
Kitchen Design
I love the style of this kitchen. What special about it is the integration of bar elements. This kitchen was designed to not look as a kitchen but more like the eating bar of a restaurant. Yet, the kitchen works well when cooking. This is a wise decision if you want your kitchen to be a part of your living room.
A 16 feet island seems marvelous. Since my kitchen space is about 10 x 11 feet, it is out of the question for the moment. At least, I got the part where my guests can sit and chat with me while I am cooking.
A Digital Issue
In case you do not know, you can subscribe to a digital issue. I receive both the digital and the print versions. At my renewal, I am thinking of renewing the digital version only. It works very well and I can always access the digital version before the print version. The digital version costs $24.95 for 12 issues. A bargain for US and International subscribers.
Sourcing:
Learn more: Kohler Through Sink K-3157 price: $1222.70 USD and up
Learn more: Dining Table by Elte – price: $7345
Photo credit of the dining room: Ted Yarwood - Canadian H&H May 2008 page 74
Photo credit of the kitchen: Martin Tesler - Canadian H&H May 2008 page 164
Categories:
EVERYDAY
HOME decor
posted @ Friday, April 11, 2008 12:41 AM | Feedback (1)
James Van Vossel is a designer from Belgium who creates fun furniture and housewares. He designs both for adults and children. But I think that he shines the most with his kids collection. Here are three products from his 2008 collection.
Ergonomic playing and sitting ball
The three handles of the inflatable Z-ball are positioned to give a better position to the child. The side handles give more support so the child can sit more in front.
I imagine a child room or a playroom with a trio of Z-balls to reproduce a lounge feeling. The children can even play video games while sitting on the Z-ball.
Modular cubes
Connect is another take on a concept done several times on the past by other designers. What James Van Vossel's design brings new to the table are the big elastics that hold the cubes together. It is so cute!
I do not know if it is the interior designer or the mathematician in me who speaks but I enjoy assembling cubes to fashion new shapes. You can use Connect to custom build a bookcase, a dividing wall, or presentation case to display a collection.
If you build a dividing room bookcase, you can arrange the Connect cubes such that some cubes are accessible from one side and the rest from the other sides. This is one way to create an airier space.
Kid-Friendly Dinner Plate
The intention behind Boor Voor Een Kind was to create plates for kids that fit better with your own porcelain china. I cannot be more thrilled since I aim for better looking tabletops, with or without kids.
For the child viewpoint, the deep plate simplifies the eating process. Security features includes two handles and the acrylic glass construction. If they need to, the children can grab a handle when they are using the fork. As the child grows, he child can carry around the plate easily with the handles.
I did not find any retailer listing on his Web site or on Goggle. If you know any stores that carry any pieces designed by James Van Vossel, please share by writing a comment.
Sourcing:
Learn more: James Van Vossel
Via: Milan 2008 Preview: James on Fresh Moco
Categories:
HOME decor
KIDS party
FAMILY style
posted @ Wednesday, April 09, 2008 4:09 PM | Feedback (0)
A look at entertaining essentials: a beautiful dinnerware to serve great food, a glamorous living room to enjoy the sunset and a stylish outdoor room to sip your cocktails.
My 3 picks of the week
Blue Orchid Designs for Style Spotlight: Terra Keramik
This post introduced a new line of environmentally friendly dinnerware. This dinnerware is über stylish dinnerware according to Liene of Blue Orchid Designs. I really like the vast selections of rich, saturated glazes. You can select eight exquisite colors. The platinum rims bring sophistication to sophistication to an otherwise simple design.
If you are interested, the online store of Terra Keramik operates from Connecticut. They currently deliver within the United States, Canada and Australia.
Blue Ant Studio for moree
Lounge Tisch is produced by Moree from Germany. The light of Lounge Indoor can be controlled by a dimmer. In the evening, Lounge Outdoor fashionably illuminates any terrace or garden. Use a colored bulb to manually update the Lounge table to a color that fits your style or a party event.
Design To Inspire for Carlu Seaver
Have a look at the impressive portfolio of Autralian stylish Carlu Seaver. On top of interiors, Carlu Seaver also styled food related shoots. Look at this one-of-a-kind lush carpet. What a view from a glamorous, mid-century Hollywood style living room. I love it!
I wish to live you on this quote by Virgina Wolf (posted by Liene):
One cannot think well, love well, sleep well if one has not dined well.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Terra Kemarik Soup Bowls – price: $29 USD
Buy online: Terra Kerarik Dinner Plates – price: $38 USD
Buy online: Moree Lounge Tisch Outdoor at Einrichten Design – price: 495 €
Categories:
HOME decor
OUTDOOR
TABLEWARE
posted @ Monday, March 31, 2008 3:35 PM | Feedback (1)
I received an email from Jaime Derringer, the blogger behind the always interesting Design Milk blog, announcing new prints on her etsy shop. Her latest prints are produced in limited print run of 25.
At $10 and $18 a piece or 2 prints for $30, her art is quite affordable. Frame a couple of Jaime Derringer’s art prints to decorate a room without breaking the bank. Her hummingbird series would fit very well in a nursery. Write her name down if you have a baby shower party coming soon.
How To Use Art Prints To Decorate Your Home?
I prefer organized wall groupings. You can never be wrong with the traditional long row and the square or rectangular matrix. For that reason, I go with identical size for all my frames.
Wall groupings call for identical or very similar colored frames. If you select ornate frames, the patterns do not have to match on all the frames as long as the color is the same. Thin frames work best for wall groupings. The room décor is more important that the art when selecting the color of your frames. But the art cannot be ignored especially when selecting the mat color. A double mat enhances a photograph or a print. And remember that a double mat always looks more stylish.
Since framing is an art by itself, I suggest you bring all your art and your wall paint sample to a framing expert for advice. The frames can make or break the overall look. If you wish to know more, Art Find published online useful framing tips and matting tips.
Art Prints As Housewarming Gifts
I was interviewed by a journalist this morning. It was about interior design tips when you are moving in a new house. This reminded me that art prints from young artists make a wonderful housewarming gift. The key is to respect the taste of your friends. So gather some clues about what their new house will look like, the colors, the style, and the mood they want to create in their new house before shopping for art prints. Check out the local art scene and the etsy shops to discover new talents.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Hummingbird with Blue Circle Trees 5x7 Print – price: $10 USD
Buy online: Rocky Mountains ORIGINAL Drawing No. 2 by Jamie Derringer – price: $32 USD
Buy online: This Ain't No Disco 8x10 Print at jaimers – price: $18 USD
Buy online: Its Tea Time Limited Edition 8x10 Print by Jamie Derringer – price: $18 USD
Buy online: Blue Green Birds on Chandelier 8x10 Print at jaimers etsy shop – price: $18 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
GIFT ideas
posted @ Friday, March 28, 2008 12:40 PM | Feedback (0)
I really like the effects that are now possible with 3D wallpapers. After seeing the beautiful tiles designed exclusively by Barber Osgerby for Stella McCartney's retail shops, I decided to show you more accessible options.
In fact, the Embossed Wall Flats by Inhabit are a far better solution. Far better since this is an eco-friendly product made from bamboo pulp. The peel-and-stick adhesive tabs can expand in any direction to create a fun, modern pattern.
I would like to create a feature wall on my home office but the difficulty remains which of the 5 patterns to select. The ten 18 by 18 inches panels per package cover 22.5 square feet. Resellers of Inhabit include Velocity and All Modern Furniture.
I want to express my special thank to N04 who reminded me of the wall flats by commenting on AT Chicago.
Sourcing:
Buy online: See Saw Wall Flat by Inhabit – price: $86 USD
Buy online: Bud Wall Flat at Inhabit – price: $86 USD
Via: Tile Vault: Stella Tiles by Barber Osgerby on Apartment Therapy Chicago
Categories:
HOME decor
posted @ Tuesday, March 25, 2008 12:19 AM | Feedback (4)
This week is all about the drum shape and fashionable fun patterns.
My 4 picks of the week
Purple Area for Clarissa Hulse
The Urban Jungle range enlivens a classic ivory and black with punches of neon pink, aqua and sweet pea. Clarissa Hulse emulated the urban landscape by the bright lights of city life.
One of the most distinctive textile designers in the UK, Clarissa Hulse is designer of luxury housewares specializing in wallpaper, cushions, throws and lamp shades. Fabrics by the meter are also available.
GlamNest for Getting' Steamy in Here! The Hottest Vent Hoods Ever
Like a movie star, the shining, glossy steel of Platinum does not go unnoticed. I am especially fond of the models that like a lamp shape. Look at Grace, Platinum, Twin, Star and Wave for the hottest island vent hoods on the market.
The high-end appliances produced by the Italian brand Elica are both stylish and technologically advanced. If you live in North America, you will be sad to know that these most daring and fashionable vent hoods are neither available in Canada or the United States for the moment.
Decor8 for Arthur's Circus
The vintage look is all the range for many. The Japanese tableware for kids does not escape this trend. If this is your taste, check out the inventory from Arthur's Circus. This small online retailer from Australia specializes in old-fashioned toys and vintage style housewares.
Arthur's Circus carries this cute Cat plate set by Shinzi Katoh. There is also A Rabbit Plate set online. Both are so cute.
Oh Joy for happy friday + new orla!
I adore this 60' style dress from the Orla Kiely Spring/Summer 2008 collection. Orla Kiely described the SS08 in Collection in these terms:
The silhouette of theis modern, simple and sophisticated with a boyish charm, cute dresses, knee-length shorts and mini summer trenches.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Wingnut & Helix large tapered drum lampshade at Clarissa Hulse – price: £195
Learn more: Hottest Island Vent Hoods by Elica
Buy online: Cat Plate Set by Shinzi Katoh – price: $35 USD
Learn more: Orla Kiely Multi Rhododendron Dress – price: £252
Buy online: Front Bow Floral Print Dresses by Orla Kiely – price: $342 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
KITCHEN tools
FAMILY style
posted @ Monday, March 24, 2008 10:54 AM | Feedback (0)
When we are taking about Scandinavian, we talked mostly about products from Finland and Sweden. In fact, I think I spoke more often about Danish products than Norwegian creations.
The government of Norway with the industry has launched an offensive a few years ago to raise awareness about what they produce. They identify UK as an important platform for their marketing campaign.
Again this year, the visitors of UK's leading contemporary interiors event will be able to see and touch the best of Norwegian design. The trade show 100% Design is scheduled for September 18 to 21, 2008 at Earls Court in London.
100% Norway viewed over the years
It was announced that 100% Norway 2008 will be once again curated by Henrietta Thompson. The upcoming stand has tripled over the size of last year. In 2006, 100% Norway stand was colossal. The 2006 stand exhibited cutting edge Norwegian architecture including a view at fashion, furniture and city bikes. From macro, the stand went micro as 100% Norway 2007 zoomed in to the creativity found in glass, porcelain and textile design. The theme for 2008 is not yet public. I will keep you posted.
Where to shop for Norwegian design?
One of the glass pieces showcased at 100% Norway 2007 is this beautiful Blue Wing Butterfly vase by Catherine Maske. The artist made a statement since her vase immortalized a national butterfly that is close to extinction. For more outstanding glass ware, check out the 100% Norway: Glass summary on Norway: the official site in the UK.
The desire to draw more attention to Norwegian design does not only come from the government. Two citizens, Marianne Lien and Lasse Altern Halvorsen, opened a store full of Norwegian products called Pur Norsk. My board let you admire the inside of Pur Norsk brick and mortar store in Oslo. Pur Norsk also cater to foreigners through their international online store.
Scandinavian Surface specializes in patterns for any surface: fabrics, wallpaper, building facades, interior decoration details, kitchenware, barware and more. They manufacture ProPiece, a line of coated polyester wall-to-wall decorations. ProPiece looks like a mix between wall decals and wall papers. I like even more their collection of coasters, serving trays, plates and cushions.
I particularly like from Scandinavian Surface their Bread Coasters which are side plate made of laminated melamine. You use them for bread rolls or snack meal. Every one of the six patterns are cool and cheerful. The bread coasters are sold in pair.
I will keep you posted on the development of 100% Design, London as more news arises.
Sourcing:
Learn more: 100% Design and 100% Light in London
Buy online: Pur Norsk
Learn more: Coasters and plates by Scandinavian Surface – price: 32 € for the pair at Pur Norsk
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Friday, March 21, 2008 1:12 PM | Feedback (0)
If like me you are not afraid of colors, you must be happy these days. For the others you are more timid, I am showing two rooms with pretty strong colors.
Fuchsia wall
I saw several rooms where the focal point is a bright fuchsia wall. The first time I saw a fuchsia room, I admired the audacity of the owner. After seeing several, I realized that every room looks amazing. They were a pretty diverse mix from kitchen, living room, bedroom and even office space. Now, I crave for my own fuchsia wall room.
Green walls
For Spring 2008, green is in vogue. By painting the backdrop of the stairs an Absinthe green the wall, the stairs become more important.
The office space is shared by the four members of the family. Arranged as a workshop, the room feels sophisticated with the traditional American walnut and the classical shape of the chairs. But the Granny Smith accents and the multicolor rug convey an unexpected whimsical mood to the space.
Accessorize
Painting the inside of your bookshelf brings a punch of color without actually living with the color. You can always tone down a color through the choice of material and shape. Here, the vivacity of the Granny Smith green fabric is toned down by the classical shape of the chair next to the brown wood.
If you opt to invest in a colorful piece of furniture or accessories, you are better to select one that you can harmonize in many ways or move to another room. The multicolor rug fits that description. The beautiful wall units, desks and chairs transfer their sophistication to the fun rug.
Being inspired by France
I picked these pictures from two fabulous French magazines: Résidences decoration and Coté Ouest. Both magazines featured a family house with a happy yet stylish interior.
The fuchsia kitchen comes from an apartment located in Le Marais, a neighborhood in Paris that I enjoy a lot. I do not miss the chance to stop by Le Marais with all its antique shops, contemporary galleries and design stores when I visit Paris. Even if it just for window shopping, it is a pleasant excursion.
One particular of the home with the two green rooms is that in fact, three different hues of green coexist. Pink make an appearance in these rooms as well.
It is just paint
If you are not totally convinced, remember that painting an accent wall is a relatively simple job to update if you get tired or if you hate the wall color. As long as you are not pressed by time, I encourage you to give a try, you may be surprised. With the technological innovations, you do not have to go blind either. Simply take a picture of your room, upload it and use a photo editing software to get a pretty good idea of what the room will look like once painted. You can also search for free online services.
Sourcing:
Fuchsia Photo credit: Résidences decoration - March / April 2008, number 79 issue – photo by Didier Delmas
Green Photo Credits: Coté Ouest - February / March 2008, number 74 issue – photos by Patrick Van Robaeys
Categories:
IN the press
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Friday, March 21, 2008 1:42 AM | Feedback (2)
This week is all about mid-century modern furniture and an amazing chandelier. The feeling is soft and airy.
My 4 picks of the week
Design to Inspire for My favourite Canadian magazine
Design to Inspire is a blog that features to die for home interiors. I visit Design to Inspire for a moment of day dreaming. This time, Kim (just like me) talked about Canadian House and Home magazine, one of my monthly must read. I select a room that would make an exquisite eye candy girl bedroom or a modern nursery.
Canadian House and Home magazine produce a digital issue of its magazine. In fact, my digital issue arrives in my inbox before I receive the print version. I like being able to access the entire magazine online anytime, anywhere. But I subscribed to both versions because I still like flipping the pages of a magazine.
Minor Details for what walls want
This is from a blog I discovered a few days ago. Being about creating space for children, Minor Details presented design oriented products for infants and young children with a twist on promoting imagination.
Show here is Eco Highway. This sustainable wallpaper for children was designed by Amélie Labarthe for Graham & Brown's Eco Collection.
Apartment Therapy Chicago for CHI Good Questions: Home Office Credenza?
Yes, another post from the Apartment Therapy but I love the works of these guys. I am also a fan of the Nelson Swag Leg Desk. In fact, I wish I own one. The Herman Miller’s reproduction of this vintage desk is efficient if you work with a laptop. And the brightly colored dividers create convenient storage cubbies. The original 1958 design has been modernized to handle cable management. So if you want to use it as a laptop desk, get the new Nelson Swag Leg Desk.
There is a Swag Leg Armchair but I prefer the Eames Molded Plastic Armchair and Side Chair. So this was picture perfect for me. Now that DWR Studio is opened in Toronto, I can drive to satisfy my cravings.
Roadside Scholar for ether ceiling light by eurofase
An ethereal interpretation of transparencies and reflections that looks stylish and modern. Available in two heights, the luxurious Ether Light Pendant by Eurofase is a conversation piece perfect for a contemporary home décor. Prices vary a lot so shop around. It is about $7000-8000 for the small Ether and $11000-12000 for the large Ether pendant.
Gigi Leonard of Roadside Scholar has a good eye to spot beautiful things. I encourage you to visit her blog.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Canadian House and Home
Buy online: Eco Highway at Graham & Brown – price: £30.00 / each
Buy online: Nelson Swag Leg Desk at Design Within Reach – price: $1799 USD
Buy online: Eames Molded Plastic Armchair and Side Chair – price: $349 USD
Categories:
HOME decor
TRENDS
posted @ Sunday, March 16, 2008 4:50 PM | Feedback (1)
Felt seems to be all the rage. Looking at the amount of felt products for the home featured by my fellow bloggers last week, I almost smell a trend. I saw more this morning while I am reading my RSS feeds. I like felt so I cannot be happier.
My 4 picks of the week
Design Hole for Felt Accessories
Like me, my friend Jennifer Mitchell of Design Hole was amazed all the wonderful things crafty and ingenious people are making out of felt.
I am showing this cute set of mustard base bowls by Papaver Vert. Imagine them as the nest for your Easter eggs. The rest of the year you can serve wrapped candies or use them in the entrance to store loose changes, keys and your cell phones.
Jennifer aptly suggested creating a soft tabletop display with these lovely Little Pebbles. Otherwise, you can build a vignette in the room of your choice. I suspected the felt pebbles to be from the South African artist-designer Ronel Jordaan.
Emma Designblogg for OKKO
I felt in love with these artichoke or blossom inspired stool designed by Moa Jantzes. Called Kotte, I found the look pretty amazing. I called it a stool out of a better word, but it is really more a sculpture. I follow Emma's blog since the summer of 2007.
Oh Happy Blog! for One Stop Shop: Anthropologie Offbeat
I really like this tabletop designed by Anthropologie. Blue and mustard is a hot color palette for Spring 2008. Adding the natural accessories create a fresh approach that has not nothing to do with the traditional royal blue and white from Holland or the blue and yellow Provencal style.
Oh Happy Blog! is produced by an event designer from Jacksonville, Florida. Her name is Danielle Gregory. Her latest posts gave me the impression that she is a fan of Anthropologie and IKEA. I discovered her blog last week.
Better Living Through Design for Graf-Lantz Wine Bottle Holders
We often carry around wine bottles from you go the BYOW restaurants or to a friend’s house. Why not do it in style? The thick merino felt protects and insulates your wine bottles. These are two creations by Gräf & Lantz, the Los Angeles based design studio founded by Holger Gräf and Daniel Lantz. The handles and details are made with vegetable tanned leather.
The colorful Duo model is also available in a solo version. The Quiver will appeal to men. What I like the most about the Quiver is that you can detach the shoulder strap and keep your bottles chilled and handy in the perfect cosy. These wine bottle carry-on bags look hip and green.
These felt accessories would made wonderful gifts for a housewarming party or a unique wedding gift.
Sourcing:
Buy online: Large Squatty Felted Wool Bowl Set -Shades of Grey with Mustard Base by Papaver Vert – price: $79 USD for a set of 3 bowls
Buy online: Felt Pebbles at Branch - starting at: $14 USD
Learn more: Kotte by Moa Jantze at OKKO
Buy online: Quiver Gray Felt and Brown Leather by Graf & Lantz – price: $130 USD
Buy online: Duo Red German Felt and Black Leather by Graf & Lantz – price: $118 USD
Categories:
TABLESCAPE
HOME decor
GIFT ideas
TABLEWARE
posted @ Monday, March 10, 2008 2:29 PM | Feedback (3)
I selected three ideas for stylish entertaining. These fresh design ideas were featured by a trio of talented bloggers that I visited frequently.
Exceptionally, there will be a second pick of the week tomorrow because there was too many wonderful posts on the blogosphere last week.
My three picks of the week
Style Me Pretty for Do-It-Yourself Projects
Have y