Beautiful Easter Styling

April 1, 2015, 6:25 pm

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Is it just me, or has Easter come around very quickly this year? It's hard to believe we're already at the end of the first school term. I wanted to do some Easter styling this year involving some DIY egg decorating to share on the blog, but time has slipped away. I might have to give it a go over the break with the kids. I'm sure they'll love it! I'm definitely looking forward to taking a few days off to spend with family, and to indulge in some chocolate. We did get some cute little perspex bunnies from Cooee, a gorgeous store in Sweden who specialise in homewares, art prints and jewellery. If you're on Instagram you might have caught the picture I posted of them in our downstairs living area. Being that it's a kids zone, they fit in perfectly on the picture ledge.

I also came across this beautiful Easter styling by Pella Hedeby this morning. Pella's work is always flawless, and I love the natural palette she has chosen with fresh white, soft textures and warm wood. Simple yet so inviting, the table setting has been created with affordable products from IKEA and H&M.

Styling by Pella Hedeby, photographed by Sara Medina Lind

Have a safe and relaxing long weekend. I'll be back here on Tuesday, hopefully feeling recharged and ready for an exciting month ahead!

Imagery via Stil Inspiration and Hitta Hem

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The Loft

April 6, 2015, 3:05 pm

≫ Next: Beautiful Bedroom Windows

≪ Previous: Beautiful Easter Styling

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Back into it today after a lovely long weekend. I hope you enjoyed your Easter break as much as I did. This incredible light-filled interior space known simply as The Loft is located on the 3rd floor of Amsterdam's Vaudeville Theatre. Curated by The Playing Circle, who provide "inspiring meeting spaces in unique locations", its appearance is that of a fully furnished apartment, but in fact it is a retail store, meaning that everything in sight can be purchased. A collection of beautiful furniture, arts, accessories and curios come together to create an industrial and eclectic feel. While this style is a little different to my own, which as you know is very clean and a bit more minimal, I can't help but be drawn in by the stunning windows, herringbone floors and soul of the space. 

My favourite corner, I love this cosy sitting area and picture wall. I have always lusted after the Lampe Gras lights which are also wall-mounted on either side of the incredible four poster bed below.

Photography by Studio Aico, via Home Adore 

The Loft has definitely been added to my must-see list for when I visit Amsterdam! Pop over here to find out more about both their online store and showroom. 

Beautiful Bedroom Windows

April 7, 2015, 5:04 pm

≫ Next: New Design Letters at Home

≪ Previous: The Loft

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I love the way our bedroom catches the afternoon sun, beckoning me to grab a book or magazine and lie down for a read and doze on the weekend. Of course much like morning sleep-ins, afternoon naps have pretty much become a thing of the past since having kids, but every now and then when it happens, it's pure bliss. I think this is why I'm drawn to bedrooms that have beautiful windows. We close up our rooms at night, so why not let the light in during the day, and cosy up in some beautiful bedlinen with a good book? 

My jaw dropped when I saw this beautiful bedroom from the Malvern House by Robson Rak Architects. Currently short-listed in the 2015 Australian Interior Design Awards, it is easy to see why! Photo by Lisa Cohen via Vogue Living Australia. 

I love how the window fits into the curve of the ceiling in the Smith Street Fitzroy Apartments by Neometro via Est. Photo by Derek Swalwell. 

A gorgeous row of windows behind the bed and beautiful styling by Pella Hedeby for IKEA Livet Hemma, photographed by Kristofer Johnsson. 

The shutters are so pretty! I'm also drooling over the Dinesen flooring that runs throughout this late 19th century Scandi style home in Fulham. I highly recommend checking out the full house tour over on Remodelista. Photo by Rory Gardiner.

Blue skies, sunshine and beautiful green surroundings make for a dreamy view and relaxed vibe. Photo by Carolina Engman via Fashion Squad.

From the stunning Instagram feed of London photographer Leila Peterson, her black and white bedroom shots with the skylight and crumpled bedding get me every time. A must follow! Via @dearleila 

New Design Letters at Home

April 9, 2015, 3:41 pm

≫ Next: Homes to Inspire | Small + Stylish in Stockholm

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As a long-time fan of the Danish design company Design Letters it gives me great pleasure to introduce you to some of their new products today. Instantly recognisable, the black and white typography that graces each of the designs was hand drawn in 1937 by the world renowned Danish Architect Arne Jacobsen. The recent introduction of Design Letters & Friends has taken the brand to new heights and brought about much excitement. Stylish and functional, and designed to suit the graphic product range perfectly, the collection includes furniture, mirrors, cushions and more! 

Created for people of all ages, Design Letters includes a fantastic Kids Collection. My boys love their melamine pieces which often find their way from the kitchen to the kids rooms and desks so I knew they would be over the moon about getting some new goodies. The Paint Book, which hangs neatly on the wall includes colouring-in pages of the entire alphabet (times two) that can be torn out and displayed. Along with the crayons, which come in a gorgeous drum box, these have already been a big hit!

A clever new addition to the Classic Collection featuring Arne Jacobsen’s vintage ABC is the Cup Up wall mount. Available in black and white, they attach easily to the wall (I used 3M adhesive strips) to create fantastic little storage solutions and graphic wall installations.  Perfect for housing pens, paint brushes and other small items above the desks, I'm about to test them out on either side of the kids bathroom basin. Watch this space!

Also part of the Design Letters Classic Collection and a new addition to the range of storage jars, the new Multi-Jar has so many uses. In keeping with our monochrome theme I chose a black cap, but it also comes in grey and light pink.

Having been looking for a side table for some time, I couldn't be happier with our new Table to go. Designed by Christian Flindt for Design Letters & Friends, I love the simple yet functional design and handle detail. Made from painted steel, it is sturdy yet light enough to move from room to room. Available in three colourways, make sure you check out the gorgeous grey and turquoise options! 

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Design Letters is represented in more than 700 shops in 27 countries around the world. For assistance in finding your nearest retailer, send an email to info@designletters.dk.

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Design Letters

Homes to Inspire | Small + Stylish in Stockholm

April 12, 2015, 1:41 pm

≫ Next: New Products, Blog Birthday + Update

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This sweet little apartment in Vasastaden, Stockholm may be small but it has a fresh, modern look that really appeals. White and bright, the styling is simple and composed with black, grey and natural wood accents throughout. These elements, brought together with a few key design pieces like the Muuto Architects Wood Lamp and HAY Bella Coffee Table in the bedroom, give the apartment an elegant and cohesive feel.

The dark headboard adds a bold contrast to the white walls and bedding. It also ties in nicely with the dark sofa in the living room opposite. The built-in shelves on either side of the bed provide a smart space-saving storage solution.  

I love the textural layers in the living room, especially the chunky wool throw. The simple wall art in black and white and plywood alongside pieces by Coco Lapine Design and Kristina Dam are surprisingly effective, while the oversized industrial floor lamp adds a bit of character. 

This lovely bright corner filled with plants makes me want to buy some more cacti and the J110 Chair by HAYis on my wishlist. 

Photography by Anders Bergstedt

Black and white photography casually leaned against the wall in the hallway sets the scene for the stylish yet relaxed apartment. See more here. 

Images via Entrance Makleri

New Products, Blog Birthday + Update

April 14, 2015, 2:51 pm

≫ Next: Katrin Bååth | Studio Crush

≪ Previous: Homes to Inspire | Small + Stylish in Stockholm

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The blog turns three today! A good time for reflection, I share my thoughts on this exciting milestone, but first I wanted to touch on some amazing brands and designers that I've been collaborating with lately. Each of these products are divine, and I've had so much fun styling them for Instagram. Here's a little bit about each. Tip: you should probably have your credit card handy...

Due to the recent drop in temperature here I've finally got to wear my luxurious new Inez Pyjamas. One of the lovely new products in the recently launched Cultiver Sleepwear collection, they are so soft and comfy, I could wear them all day. Available in beautiful colours to complement the Cultiver bedlinen collections, I may need another pair! I was also lucky to receive some of the Pink Herbivore Botanicals products to try out from Resident GP. 100% natural and beautifully presented, see the full range here.

No longer requiring an introduction here on TDC, the name Kate & Kate has become synonymous  with quality throws and blankets. Continually producing fresh new designs, their latest collection Quite Geometry is my favourite yet. A surprise addition this time around has been their Linen Throws, one of which, the stunning Sea Tangle in Linen Birch, graces our our sofa above. The new collection also includes their first range of lush Towels. 

I'm loving my new BKR Water Bottle from Paper Plane Store, which I featured a while back in this post. It was hard to choose from all the pretty colours, but the opaque light grey London looks right at home here on my desk. 

I'm a big fan of BONDI WASH and their distinctive plant-based cleaning products. Combining the the amazing power and fragrance of unique Australian Bush Oils with a luxurious mix of other essential oils and natural ingredients, they are good for the planet and your home. Their newest product, in beautifully simply monochrome packaging sitting on my bedside here, is the Triple Mill Soap Bar with Australian Wattle Seed Oil. Luxuriously creamy, moisturising and soothing, this natural palm oil free soap is available in three distinctively Australian scents.

I am in love with my new Perpetual Type Calendar from graphic design-led lifestyle brand Nor-Folk. Alternating black and white, minimalist perfection, each page keeps me guessing with a different typeface. A must-follow on Instagram (@nor_folk) where we first crossed paths, founder Fi lives with her little family in a factory in Norfolk, UK and her shares gorgeous photos of her life and work. 

Meet Douglas, the gorgeous new cushion on our downstairs sofa from Australian brand Into The Fold. Design focused with a quirky edge, all of their cushions are made from weatherproof fabrics. Perfect for households with kids or pets, I love that they can be used for outdoor living but also soft enough for indoors. Make sure you also check out their range of big and beautiful Floor Cushions. 

There was much excitement yesterday when this Lightening bolt Light from Fromage La Rue arrived for Roman's room. Inspired by the classic French vintage Marquee lights, they have low wattage cool to touch LED lights and look super cool on a shelf, bedside or hung on the wall. 

I couldn't let today pass without a mention of it being the blog's third birthday, and saying a huge thank you to all of you, especially those who have been following along since the early days. An amazing journey so far, the blog has evolved so much over the last few years and with a slight change in steering, is heading in a really exciting direction. That change, which some of you may have already picked up on from my About Page, is something I wanted to mention to today. 

Knowing that something had to give, at the start of the year I started winding down the residential styling side of my business. I still have a couple of projects to complete, and after that I will be focusing solely on the blog, my work with BNZ GoodHome and TDC Styling + Photography. The latter is one that I have touched on today, involving the growing collaborations with local and international clients. I simply love product styling and photography so it makes sense to continue down this path. I'm also finding it incredibly rewarding. When clients tell me their products that I have styled are 'flying out the door' (or in some cases sold out), it's a great feeling. One client recently thanked me for contributing to their best month in revenue since they started. 

If you're interested in working with me, take a look at my About Page where you will also find recently updated contact details (i.e new email addresses) and info on advertising and submissions. 

Katrin Bååth | Studio Crush

April 15, 2015, 3:55 pm

≫ Next: Nathan + Jac

≪ Previous: New Products, Blog Birthday + Update

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This incredible studio in Sweden belongs to creative art director and stylist Katrin Bååth. Light-filled and airy thanks to high ceilings and beautiful big windows, it has a striking gallery wall featuring a mix of stunning black and white photography. Another standout feature is the gorgeous glass cabinet from Danish designers Lindebjerg, filled with an eclectic mix of objects. Distinctly feminine with a vintage-industrial edge, Katrin's style is truly inspiring. 

Photography by Sarah Landstedt

What an amazing environment to work in and to get the creative juices flowing!

Images via Katrin's website, her Pinterest and Instagram

Nathan + Jac

April 16, 2015, 3:43 pm

≫ Next: Robert Mills Architects | Bayside

≪ Previous: Katrin Bååth | Studio Crush

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Launched yesterday, Nathan + Jac is an online interiors concept created by Melbourne mother and daughter duo Tammy Nathan and Jacqui Zarkovic from Styling Properties and Bec Astrinakis from Rebecca Ellie Studio. Offering curated collections of bespoke and on-trend interior accessories, the stunning limited edition packs which can be shipped Australia wide have been designed to take the uncertainty out of sourcing a complete look for the home. Each cohesive collection focuses on a mixed vignette of unique and in some instances exclusive items, which are sold as ‘looks’ at an accessible price point. Ranging from full room or bedroom packs each look includes a careful edit of home wares, accessories, artwork, soft furnishings, rugs and small furniture pieces. 

Nathan + Jac have also launched their beautiful debut cushion range. Designed and manufactured in Melbourne, the collection includes buttery leather floor cushions, textured velvet cushions and botanical print cushions. They are also pleased to present original works on paper by Barbara Kitallides along with a Georgina Skinner print and the graphic Streetscape prints, which are Nathan + Jac originals.

To show you how this exciting new concept works, here's a look at MONOCHROME LIVING ROOM PACK from the MONOCHROME - Minimalist Cool - collection. A crisp aesthetic of geometric shapes and clean lines, this one will be appeal to all lovers of stylish black and white interiors. 

The pack costs $2859 and contains the following pieces: 

For details of each, take a look here. 

Smaller accessory packs are also available with additional coffee table vignettes, gift packs and cushion packs from each collection to allow personal customisation of each look.

The other collections include:

ENVY - Covetable Opulence -

A collection inspired by reminiscent of The Beverly Hills Hotel, circa 1930’s dripping in riches. Affluent in glamour and exoticism the allure of lush palms, cascading florals and antique brass combine with an ox blood, cerulean and brass colour palette to create the ultimate escapism of Old Hollywood.

ENVY LIVING ROOM PACK 

WILD HEART - Feminine and Wild - 

For the modern bohemian, the wanderer, the optimist, the creative and the bon vivant. An unconventional, carefree approach to the stylish life of the semi-nomadic layering blush, white, cream and dove grey colour palette inspired by the encrusted personality of Stevie Nicks.

Wild Heart includes both a LIVING ROOM PACK and BEDROOM PACK

Designed to appeal both the discerning and avid interiors lovers as well as the style novice, I believe that Nathan + Jac is a brilliant new concept and I look forward to seeing how it evolves. In addition to being refreshed every three months, key packs will be released monthly defined by seasonal trends and colour forecasting. Pop over to their homepage to subscribe to the newsletter and be sure to follow on social media. 

Photography by Eve Wilson and styling by Simone Haag

Images courtesy of Nathan + Jac

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Robert Mills Architects | Bayside

April 19, 2015, 2:15 pm

≫ Next: Loft in the Netherlands

≪ Previous: Nathan + Jac

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Together with his team of residential architects, interior designers, heritage architects and project managers Robert Mills is responsible for some of the most innovative and inspiring residential projects around the world. From ultra-contemporary city residences to elegant heritage restorations, from grand country house designs to some of the most architecturally exhilarating beach houses, Rob Mills’ unique style flows through every single one. The Bayside apartment project which I've chosen to share with you today showcases a winning combination of aesthetic beauty and functionality along with the signature touches found in all of Rob's iconic Melbourne homes. These include clever use of light, air, simple palettes and organic materials such as natural stone and oak timber flooring. Spacious and elegant with a touch of luxury, what more could you ask for? 

To see many more of the firm's breath-taking interior and architectural designs take a look here.

Thanks to Blog Milk with images via Robert Mills Architects and Interior Designers

Loft in the Netherlands

April 20, 2015, 9:24 pm

≫ Next: Marimekko at Bolt of Cloth

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Loft is a word that always grabs my attention, and when I saw this beautiful imagery, I wanted to find out more. A lifestyle store in Arnhem in the Netherlands, LOFT is located in an old school, over two levels. With beautiful high ceilings and rows of gorgeous windows, the light-filled space is home to both Dutch and Scandinavian design brands. Somewhere I would love to visit, the store has such a peaceful quality, which seems fitting today. The kids are back at school after the holidays and some quiet is exactly what I've been craving, along with the need to tidy and put away all the toys! 

Photography by Maartje van Suijdam for Woonguide

LOFT stores can also be found in Zwolle and Apeldoorn. Here are a few more photos showcasing the light and airy interiors filled with furniture, fashion and homewares.

The incredible building which houses LOFT in Arnhem still has the former school's name on the exterior. It would be impossible to walk past without going inside, don't you think?

To find out more, visit LOFT.

Imagery via Woonguide, LOFT and VT Wonen

Marimekko at Bolt of Cloth

April 21, 2015, 5:18 pm

≫ Next: Homes to Inspire | Sleek + Stylish in Denmark

≪ Previous: Loft in the Netherlands

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Born out of a love of fabric and design, New Zealand company Bolt of Cloth specialises in both soft furnishings and homewares. In addition to working with clients on interior design projects from their workroom in Christchurch, they have two retail stores in the same city and one in Auckland. Their beautiful collection of products are also available to purchase online, including the iconic Finnish brand Marimekko, which I'm very excited to be featuring today. 

Renowned for its original prints and colours, the Marimekko Fabrics were what initially led Bolt of Cloth to become a stockist. From there, they have expanded their range to include an extensive collection of Marimekko Homeware and Accessories, now boasting their very own Marimekko shop-in-shop within both the Newmarket store in Auckland and their store at the Tannery in Christchurch. Recently I visited the gorgeous Newmarket store and selected some of their Marimekko Tableware pieces to showcase, by way of a lovely breakfast setting at home. 

In fitting with my love of monochrome and bold graphics, I used some of the classic black and white Marimekko pieces. To add a touch of colour, I included two of the beautiful new Saapaivakirja Bowls which feature splashes of pink, yellow, and grey. As a big coffee drinker, I also love the new Siirtol Coffe Cups which are perfectly sized for my morning espresso!  

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Tasaraita Mugs 

Siirtol Coffe Cups

Marimekko Black and White Bowls

Marimekko Black and White Plates

Marimekko Teapot in Siirtolapuutarha

Siirtolapuutarha Jug (black and white one used as vase) 

Saapaivakirja Bowls 

Linen Table cloth is from Kate and Kate and the HAY chairs are from Cult Design

Bolt of Cloth ship internationally, with free shipping for all orders throughout New Zealand and Australia that are over $100. For smaller orders a flat rate fee of just $5 applies. For retail store locations take a look here. 

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Bolt of Cloth

Homes to Inspire | Sleek + Stylish in Denmark

April 22, 2015, 3:08 pm

≫ Next: Indie Home Collective | New Online Store

≪ Previous: Marimekko at Bolt of Cloth

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When my eyes met with this beautiful black kitchen, my first thought was that it might be 3D rendered. So clean, streamlined and elegant it looked too good to be true. On closer inspection I recognised that the design is by renowned Danish brand Vipp and that the home is in fact very real. Located in Valby, Denmark, the owners are Morten Voldrum whose role is Head of Development at Vipp, his wife Charlotte and their one year old son Jens. While the kitchen is undoubtedly a standout, the sleek Scandinavian style continues throughout the entire interior with stunning flooring and a carefully curated collection of furniture, artwork, lighting and homewares. 

Photography by Anders Hviid

Understated yet so inviting, I also love the French-style windows and bifold doors leading out to the gorgeous outdoor space. 

Images via Bolig Magasinet

Indie Home Collective | New Online Store

April 23, 2015, 3:16 pm

≫ Next: Wishlist | Winter Cravings

≪ Previous: Homes to Inspire | Sleek + Stylish in Denmark

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Since opening the doors to their Auckland store midway through 2013, Indie Home Collective have wowed shoppers with their stunning retail space. A former warehouse beautifully transformed with white-washed concrete floors and walls, I still catch my breath every time I step inside. Filled with beautiful furniture, lighting, homeware and accessories, the continually evolving collection of pieces along with their signature organic boho-Scandi vibe always excites, and I find it hard to leave empty-handed!

I've really enjoyed following their journey from the start, when I first interviewed owner and stylist Claudia Kozub just days before the store opened. While she and partner Neel Giri initially put their focus into the retail space, it didn't take long before they began working away at building their website and online store. It is with much excitement that I announce this is now live, and much like their store is a visual feast of interior goodness, only this time of the virtual kind! Itching to announce the news to you all, I asked Claudia to send me through some of her latest imagery. Here you will see some of the beautiful products styled in-house by Indie Home Collective, now available to purchase online. Effortlessly cool and always inspiring, Claudia has an incredible talent for mixing natural materials and textual elements. I can't get enough!

Styling and Photography by Indie Home Collective 

Take a look at the beautiful new website here, shop their extensive range of products online and be sure to follow along on social media and sign up to their newsletter.

Images courtesy of Indie Home Collective

Wishlist | Winter Cravings

April 26, 2015, 1:26 pm

≫ Next: Neutral Instinct | First Birthday + Giveaway

≪ Previous: Indie Home Collective | New Online Store

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It's been a long weekend here in NZ, and last night we were over at friends enjoying what I'm sure will be the last barbecue for a while. The weather has packed in today and it's finally starting to feel like winter. This morning we're off to brunch with family and then I'll be settling in to work for the afternoon. I'm hoping the rain will set the mood for some great productivity, but it's also a good excuse for online shopping don't you think? I always seem to splurge a little more in winter, probably as a way of cheering myself up during the dreary months. This may also provide some last minute Mother's Day gift ideas for those who need it! Here's what I'm currently craving. 

Mansur Gavriel Mini Bucket Bag(due in May)
Ballerina IV Photo by Vanessa Paxton | Walnut Street
Tribeca Warren Wall Lamp by Søren Rose for Menu 
Bleu Foret Stripe Glitter Sock
Acne Studios Jensen Stitch Boots
Norm Collector Jewellery Rack | Norm Architects for Menu
Commodity Black Collection Eau de Parfum in Wool 
Mad et Len Figue Noire Classic Candle
Monochrome Home book by Hillary Robertson, photography by Pia Ulin 

Neutral Instinct | First Birthday + Giveaway

April 27, 2015, 4:04 pm

≫ Next: Dining Area | Three Ways

≪ Previous: Wishlist | Winter Cravings

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Since discovering Neutral Instinct last year when I featured them here, the Australian online boutique has been firmly cemented in my mind and heart as one that delivers the best in simple, minimalist design. For those of us who seek out Scandinavian brands such as Menu and by Lassen, Neutral Instinct makes it easy, offering a wide range of products from these and many more sought after designers from both Australia and around the globe. 

To mark the boutique's first birthday, talented founder Amanda Tiernan recently teamed up with photographer Martina Gemmola to produce some beautiful imagery which I'm excited to share with you today. Showcasing the current product range which includes everything from homewares, small furniture and lighting through to body products, bags and stationery, here's a taste of what's on offer. 

Styling by Amanda Tiernan/Neutral Instinct and photography by Martina Gemmola

In celebration of turning one, Neutral Instinct is giving one lucky reader an e-voucher valued at $300AUD to spend online! Open to Australian and New Zealand residents, the giveaway is running over on Instagram, so make sure you pop over and enter. Good Luck! 

Images courtesy of Neutral Instinct

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Dining Area | Three Ways

April 28, 2015, 7:19 pm

≫ Next: April and May

≪ Previous: Neutral Instinct | First Birthday + Giveaway

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There are a lot of factors to take into account when styling a dining area, such as size and layout of the space. Our dining area is open plan, adjacent to the kitchen and surrounded by windows. Without wall space for artwork, I chose to make the lighting a standout feature. The Muuto pendant lights do the job nicely, without having to compete with any other surrounding lighting, such as large pendant lights over the kitchen island or in the living area nearby. While the abundance of light and natural outlook is lovely, I sometimes see dining spaces with amazing artwork and think how nice that would be too. I've recently come across a few of these, each one striking yet very different. 

This beautiful light-filled area has the space and ceiling height to handle both a gallery wall and stunning pendant light. In fact the two compliment each other with a mix of frames and clean lines. 

A combined home and office space belonging to Brooke Morgan of Nomad Collective. Photo by Alyssa Rosenheck via Rue.

Two black and white artworks side by side, one a photograph and one a city map of Paris work beautifully together. I love the muted tones of the table setting, the grey chairs and simple pendant light. 

Styling by Pella Hedeby& Marie Ramse via Hitta Hem. Photo by Sara Medina Lind.

If your table is up against a wall, why not try a wall lamp? While a beautiful feature, this lamp doesn't detract from the incredible large-scale artwork. The hero piece of this dining room, I love the way it is casually leaned against the wall. 

Hall House designed by Lauren Macer of  Sisällä Interior Design. Photo by Eve Wilson. 

April and May

April 29, 2015, 8:33 pm

≫ Next: Friday Finds

≪ Previous: Dining Area | Three Ways

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April and May is a creative studio in the Netherlands run by two highly talented ladies Jantine and Vivian. With a focus on interiors, styling, concept work and branding the design duo also have a beautiful online store and inspiring blog which I have been following for a long time. At the start of the year April and May moved into a new studio space and this month are featured in Dutch magazine vt wonen. The stunning space which reflects Jantine and Vivian's soft minimalist style features exquisite furniture and beautiful textural elements. I love their choice of marble for the coffee counter, the painted brick walls and the dark grey sofa from Made. The round table is a vintage find, while most of the accessories can be found at their online store byAprilandMay. 

One of their standout styling projects from last year is the concept store in the Netherlands called First or Second. Working on the cafe inside the store 1OR2 cafe, they collaborated with Norm Architects whose key design goals were to create an open structure and a Japanese/Scandinavian feeling. A white canvas layered with pale wood, this has clearly been achieved. Stunning products by Menu complete the interior and I'm sure make grabbing a coffee an experience to remember!

Design by Norm Architects, Styling by April and May and photography by Wendy van Woudenberg of Beeldsteil

For more inspiration, visit April and May and follow along on Instagram.

Images via April and May

Friday Finds

April 30, 2015, 3:53 pm

≫ Next: Ottoloom | New Luxury Towels

≪ Previous: April and May

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Today's Friday Finds theme is centred around two interior elements I'm passionate about, monochrome palettes and texture. Kicking off with an incredible home by one of my favourite architectural firms Whiting Architects, you may remember this Homes to Inspire Post from last year. Seeing it shortlisted for the 2015 Australian Interior Design Awards came as no surprise, but I was also interested to see another one of their projects included in the same Residential Design category. The Strand in Williamstown consists of two penthouse apartments located on the mouth of the Yarra River in Melbourne. Designed from the inside out, Whiting Architects let the stunning views from Westgate Bridge to Williamstown shipyards and across Port Phillip Bay drive the design. The elegant interior showcases incredible attention to detail. The monochrome palette is layered with beautiful textural elements such as the patterned rug and soft curtains in the open plan living space. The unique bedroom wall provides an amazing backdrop to the bed. See more of this incredible home here. The awards are due to be announced on the 15th of May. 

Photography by Sharyn Cairns via The Australian Interior Design Awards

These woven artworks by Mimi Jung are truly exquisite. Having studied both fine art at Copper Union in New York and graphic design in HKG Basel, it's these two practises that strongly influence Mimi's work and push her weavings beyond the realm of traditional craft-making. Hung from a copper rod, the subtle yet intricate style of the two works below, Diagonal Bar and Two Rectangles are my favourites. 

Images via Mimi Jung

Usine is a new restaurant by award winning designer Richard Lindvall located in an old sausage factory in Södermalm, Stockholm. Consisting of a restaurant, café, bar, meeting place and art gallery the incredible space has an industrial style with plenty of texture by way of concrete and metal. Thanks to Emma for sharing this sneak peek. She attended a preview before the official opening and promises to show some more photos soon!

Photography by Mikael Axelsson viaEmms Designblogg

I was interested to discover that these visually striking textural rugs by Woven Ground are made from leather. Similar to cowhides, leather provides a practical non-slip and warm material for flooring but it also gets better with age. Made from Italian leather and stitched in India, each rug is cut by hand. The pieces are then carefully assembled to create stunning geometric patterns. 

Images via Mad About the House

An important reminder before I go to enter this week's amazing giveaway from Neutral Instinct! You have until Monday morning to get your name in the draw. All details in this post and on Instagram. 

Ottoloom | New Luxury Towels

May 3, 2015, 10:49 pm

≫ Next: New Season Texture

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Ottoloom are a New Zealand-based company who produce a beautiful range of range of handwoven, certified organic towels, throws, blankets and robes made in Southern Turkey. Most of you will be familiar with the Pestamels (thin Turkish towels) that have become extremely popular around the world. I'm a big fan, and use them both at home and at the beach in summer. With winter time calling for something a little fuller and cosier, Ottoloom have just launched a new range of luxury towels that are super thick and plush. Perfect for the cooler months, like all the Ottoloom products, they are handmade with 100% certified organic Turkish cotton on traditional wooden shuttle looms by weaving families in Southern Turkey. An important factor that sets Ottoloom apart, a woven item item is a very special thing in today's market. This is due to its ability to out-last any factory made textile by at least three times and in the case of thicker, looped towels; five to six times longer. When you combine the strength and integrity that a woven product can offer with highest quality natural fibres, then you have a product with a level of quality that is a rarity these days.

Ottoloom have very kindly given me a couple of the new towels to try, including the Sicily Bath Towel and the Majorca Bath Mat, which can also be used and a large hand towel. When they arrived I was amazed by the incredible weaving technique and attention to detail. I can't wait to test them out! 

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

While all of the Ottoloom items are of exceptional quality, the thick, looped towels in particular are the best in the world. Promising to last a minimum of 20 years, the structure of a looped towel made on a loom is completely different than that of a factory towel. Ottoman weavers invented the looping technique on the loom in the late 17th century and were world famous for their towels, not just for the invention, but for the fact that the towels lasted so incredibly long.

The certified organic Turkish threads are more absorbent, and won't go hard over time, or smell musty. 

I do believe I have found the perfect towel!

For more information on these and other products, to shop online or find your nearest stockist visit Ottoloom.

Images courtesy of Ottoloom 

New Season Texture

May 5, 2015, 5:40 pm

≫ Next: Fantastic Frank | Bedside Styling

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One of my boys was home sick the last couple of days, so work has gone slightly by the wayside. The downside in a change of weather is the onslaught of bugs but on a positive note, the new season provides the perfect excuse to give your interior a little re-fresh, and I'm noticing that the itch to shuffle things around at home is greater than ever. Because I tend to stick with monochrome, changes for me usually involve textural elements, and the constant need to declutter and pare things back. I am however still loving muted, earthy tones, and I can't get enough of metallics, marble and concrete, all of which mix in well with black and white. These natural materials also go hand in hand with fresh flowers, indoor plants and candles, and help to freshen up an interior and create a cosy atmosphere during the cooler months. Perfect for when we want to lay low, cosy up in bed and hibernate!  

Styling by Amelia Holmes and photography by Louise Hyatt 

Do you remember the beautiful ceramic dinnerware from Father Rabbit that I used for this Christmas shoot last year? These incredible new images showcase the range in a whole new light. Quite a contrast from the pristine and orderly world of Father Rabbit, the rough concrete and paint splattered backdrop enhances the natural artisanal quality of the ceramics and beautiful colour palette. Far too pretty to hide away, they would look amazing displayed on open shelves, either stacked in an ombre style, or colour blocked en masse. To see the full range of options and colours, take a look here. 

Styling by INTSIGHT for Milkmax, photographed by Mireia Rodríguez

A similar aesthetic, the distressed concrete provides a striking backdrop to the beautiful stonewashed bedding by Milkmax.

Styled by Jenny Martinsson and photographed by Sarah Medina Lind for Plaza Interiör

These stunning white and grey still life images impeccably showcase textural elements including marble and concrete, to compliment a range of gorgeous homewares and accessories. A simple olive leaf provides the perfect touch of muted green.