T.D.C

An architecture and interior design studio based in Melbourne, Meme Design is directed by designer Megan Hounslow and designer/architect Melanie Beynon. Working across a range of projects, the team create contemporary, finely crafted and customised spaces that celebrate materials, finishes, life, friends, family and individuality. The refurbishment of this small Edwardian home in Prahan was carried out by Meme Design with the strict adherence of a monochromatic colour pallet. One of the key features of the highly functional design is the open plan kitchen. It has joinery containing a hot desk area and appliance niche, a concealed fridge and dishwasher, designed to hide all signs of any ‘back of house’ functions and conceal as much clutter as possible. I love the attention to detail and textural elements in this home. There are also beautiful contrasts between light and dark.

Photography by Tom Blachford and Sonia Mangipane

The beautiful wall hanging in the bedroom by Justine Ashbee from Safari Living has gone straight to my wishlist! I also love the white tapware and towel rail in the bathroom.

Visit Meme Design to see more of the Prahan Residence and other projects.

Images via Est

I first learnt of the Dutch label Crisp Sheets through some of their incredible bedroom styling which I featured in this post. Founded in 2014 by Amsterdam-based Lara Jans, Crisp Sheets offers a beautiful collection of bedding as well as a large range of paper goods including posters, postcard and notebooks. Following on from a busy and fruitful start-up year, they have now launched their second collection which I'm very happy to share with you today.

Inspired by today’s ‘less is more’ movement, the new collection features warm grey tones, crisp white cotton and stunning graphic illustrations. All designs are digitally edited watercolour illustrations, hand painted by Lara herself.

The collection consists of six gorgeous new duvet cover sets; Confetti, Dots, Unity, Lover, Secret Garden and Light As a Feather. As with all of the Crisp Sheets bedding, they are made from 100% cotton, woven by a special technique that gives them the unique Crisp Sheets feature: crispy cotton that keeps a ‘fresh made bed’ feel.

Photography by Alco Lind

The new collection also sees the introduction of a beautiful wool plaid blanket. Aptly named Cozy, it is made in Lithuania from New Zealand wool and is now available for pre-order. The new collection of duvet cover sets can be purchased right away online and via retailers including the Dutch luxury department store De Bijenkorf.

To stay in the loop, sign up to the Crisp Sheets newsletter and follow along on Instagram.

Images courtesy of Crisp Sheets

If you're anything like me, choosing a diary for the new year is an important task. Last year I was lucky to get my hands on the minimalist planner by Marjolein Delhaas from Neutral Instinct which you may remember from this post. Designed and made in the Netherlands the diary has become instantly recognisable due to its simple yet striking typographic design. On my wishlist again for 2016, I was excited to see that in addition to the Classic and Basic Planners Marjolein Delhaas has introduced a new product, the Tear Off Block Planner. Neutral Instinct kindly sent me the set to test out and I can safely now say I'm all set for the new year ahead!

The Basic Planner now comes with a clear book cover (not shown here) offering both protection and an extra place to store small cards, coupons or notes. One of my favourite original features of the dairy is the open spine binding, a technique that allows the diary to fall open flat, making it super easy to use.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Pop over to Neutral Instinct to shop the range. You'll be seeing more from this beautiful online store on the blog early next week with a new launch and reader offer so keep an eye out!

This post was created in collaboration with Neutral Instinct

Anyone who has been faced with the daunting task of choosing paint colours will know that it can be a time consuming process, often involving lots of test pots and a fair bit of trial and error. With the new digital tool Dulux ColourView, deciding on the perfect hue for your home is now a whole lot easier. An exciting update to the Dulux Colour App, I've been testing it out the over the last few days and know for sure that this will be my go-to tool for any future painting projects.

I'm sure you're wondering how it works, and it's really easy. You simply select the ColourView feature in the Dulux Colour App, take a photo of a room, or upload an existing one to the app, then select a Dulux colour to virtually paint a section of the image. Within minutes you can visualise your colour choice and see your ideas come to life, without even picking up a paintbrush. I tested it out on some of the Dulux interior rooms provided on the app to demonstrate, but I also had fun playing around with some photos from home. Depending on what you are looking at paining, whether it be walls, ceilings, tabletops or craft projects, it's as easy as snap, colour and view.

I've mentioned several times lately how much I love earthy colours, so you'll see I've stepped outside of my all-white comfort zone to experiment with some beautiful greens and muted greys. Perfect for those who are renovating, Dulux ColourView allows you to move away from safe shades and achieve your dream colour without the fear of making mistakes.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Dulux ColourView gives you the ability to experiment with more than 960 Dulux colours until the hue is just right. The easy to navigate Dulux Colour App also has a host of existing features including the clever ‘Colour Capture’ function which easily finds the closest Dulux colour match to any colour using the device’s camera and ‘Browse Colour’.

Compatible with iPhones and iPads, the new Dulux ColourView features on the free Dulux Colour App or is available to existing Dulux Colour App users as a free update, which can be downloaded here.

For further colour inspiration, product information, project ideas and store locator visit Dulux and be sure to follow on Facebook and Instagram.

This is a sponsored post. For more information please visit my About Page.

Today kicks of the TDC Christmas Gift Guide series, where I'll be curating some fresh gift ideas for Her, Him and the Kids. Starting with the ladies, I hope this provides you with some online shopping inspiration for your family and loved ones or even yourself! With a focus on great design for the home and beyond, I've also included an under $50 gift guide for some more affordable options, additional extras or stocking fillers.

Styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay / photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper

OSLO Hanging Planter 01 from shelf / life*

Pepe White Marble Mirror by Menu from Simon James Concept Store

2016 Limited Edition Calendar / Floral from The Minimalist*

Concrete and Brass Candle Holder Station from Urban Couture

Jamdani Scarf from Indie Home Collective

Indoor Green by Bree Claffey from Tessuti

Moochi x Penney + Bennett Small Linen Cushion

Circular Concrete Bowl by Menu from Simon James Concept Store

Marais Robe by Cultiver

ferm LIVING Magazine Holder from Design Stuff*

Press Tray / Satin Black by Tim Webber from Mildred & Co

Jasmine Sparrow Gloria Earrings / Gold from Father Rabbit

Big Squares Tablecloth by Aura Home

Carrara from AÃRK*

Concrete Wire Pot from Paper Plane

AYTM Tota Cylinder Glass Jar in Rose/Brass from Urban Couture

C'est La Vie Notebook by Blacklist Studio from Mildred & Co

The Minimalist Home Art Print by Yorkelee Prints (5 sizes)

Lyestage No 1 Brass Candleholder from LET LIV

Salus Lavender & Mandarin Hand cream from Crate & Co

Minimalist Loop Concrete Vase by Zakkia from Leven

Organic Coconut Chai Tea by Storm & India from Paper Plane

Tea Timer by Storm & India from Tessuti

New Norm Thermo Cup with Lid in Blossom from LET LIV

Concrete House from Good Regards

Citta Design Flapper Wash Bag from Paper Plane

Ottoloom Kontext Scarf from Leven

Marble Bowl and Stand from Un Deux Trois

Gold Triangle Letter Holder from The Wooden Horse

*These links in this post are sponsored. I only include products that I love.

With both design-conscious parents and kids in mind, the beautiful, Scandi-inspired online store Neutral Instinct has recently expanded into children's ware. Stocking popular international brands such as Tellkiddo, Design Letters and Cooee, their latest addition is the beautiful children's label ooh noo.

Designed and created in Europe, with love and traditional craftsmanship, the collection combines old-world charm with minimalist contemporary design. Made from the highest quality materials, the bedding is extremely soft yet durable and features original artwork that will appeal to girls and boys alike. In fact ooh noo was created when one of the brand's designers wanted bedding that she could mix and match and use for both her children, a girl and a boy. Bedding that was well designed and made of pure materials that could be washed and dried again and again while getting better with age. Giving new meaning to the term hand-me-downs, ooh noo is designed to be passed down and to stand the test of generations. The collection also includes a range of gorgeous toys such as the Alphabet Blocks, Googy Rocking Horse and the award-winning Mr Crocodile on a Stick.

I've had the pleasure of seeing the bedding up close, and the quality really is amazing. It certainly lives up to the promise of being beautiful, pure and lovable. See which products I picked and how I styled them in Marlow's room over on Instagram.

To celebrate the launch of this gorgeous new brand, Neutral Instinct are offering TDC readers 15% off all ooh noo bedding pre-orders, from now until midnight on Wednesday 2nd of December.

NOTE: this offer applies to all ooh noo duvet covers and pillow cases. It excludes ooh noo cushions and toys. To redeem this offer, enter TDC at checkout. Pre-orders are expected to arrive 7th December. Open to New Zealand and Australian residents only.

Happy shopping!

Images courtesy of Neutral Instinct

Today Penney + Bennett have launched their highly-anticipated second collection, The Night Dynasty. Inspired by an open-air overnight stay in the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India, Penney + Bennett founders Loren Marks and Sarah Carson say the designs are informed by the celestial sky and the moon worshipping inhabitants that have thrived in the harsh landscape of the Thar Desert for centuries. Bringing the vision to life by way of luxurious silk and linen pieces for the home, the new collection is truly exquisite.

The first of two posts, I am so excited to be sharing a selection of The Night Dynasty with you today. Thinking back to my initial preview of the collection, I was not only blown away by the beautiful new designs and colour palette, I was amazed at the size of the collection, which is designed by Loren and Sarah and made here in NZ. To showcase the expansive range, the launch posts reveal two room settings, beginning today with the living room.

Taking queues from the low-level seating seen in India, the rich textures and vibrant colours look amazing against the daybed and neutral setting. The new designs feature stunning blue-green hues and gorgeous monochrome variations. I can't get enough of the beautiful fringed throws, which together with the cushions create endless combinations for the ultimate relaxed yet luxurious lounging experience. Each design is available in both linen and silk. Take your pick, or combine the two as I have done here!

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Stay tuned for the second post, a bedroom setting, which will include the incredible new linen bedding, and gold gilded art prints. The Night Dynasty is now available to purchase from Penney + Bennett and selected stockists.

Additional Items:
Transition and The Quiet Within Fine Art Giclée Prints - The Indigo Series by Mini Grandi Artist
White Dipped Belly Basket - Olli Ella
Menu Flip Around Table and Norm Thermo Jug - LET LIV
411 Floor Light by Lampe Gras - Simon James Design
Safari Daybed - Dunlin
Flowers - Bloom Social

Recently I was introduced to Sill_life, an Auckland-based company specialising in indoor plants, hangers and accessories. Having trouble finding a plant to fit my lovely new Ivy Muse Nest, Sill_life came to the rescue and I have been singing their praises ever since. The company is an exciting new venture for Jasmine Edgar, who has been working in the Film and TV industry as a wardrobe stylist for over 15 years, and her husband Ian Ferguson, a graphic designer and owner of Auckland based design company, Friends of Design. Having always wanted to do something creative together "but not a fashion label!" Sill_life combines Jasmine's passion for plants, ceramics and pottery, with Ian's love of photography and graphic design.

When Jasmine first paid me a visit armed with a gorgeous selection of little plants, we took one look at each other and knew we'd met before. We soon figured out that we'd in fact met several times over the years, through the magazine industry and mutual friends. Also a mother of two young boys, Jasmine continues to juggle freelance styling work with the rapidly growing online store Sill_life. Needless to say she is a very busy (and talented) lady!

Besides custom-potting plants to the size required, I love that Sill_life seek out exciting and exotic indoor specimens. Constantly updating their online store with new items, their range of affordable potted plants, hangers and accessories are perfectly suited to both home and office environments. As you can see I'm getting a lot of enjoyment from styling these lovely plants on my shelves. They really do brighten things up and add a fresh, natural touch. The limited edition hand thrown ceramic pot designed and handmade by Jasmine is also gorgeous - such a pretty colour and finish.

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Be sure to check in regularly to Sill_life as they adding new items to the shop all the time. To receive news, specials and other info, drop them a line via their contact page and make sure you follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Additional Items:
Succulent Plant No 1 Poster - (by) Garmi
Spoonless Container in Ash designed by Murken Hansen for Menu - LET LIV
Classic Candle (Mirth) by FUME - LET LIV

This post was brought to you in collaboration with Sill_life

I recently read somewhere that we tend to approach Sundays in one of two ways. Either we worry about the week ahead, or we enjoy the day by living in the moment. The Sunday Kind is definitely all about the latter. Founded by Alana Broadhead of Fancy NZ Design Blog, the new home design brand is inspired by slow, sunny Sundays and creating nice things that make a house a home. Alana's first design, in collaboration with Nigel Cotterill of NDC Design is The Sunday Bench. Handmade to order by Nigel, whose incredible work was featured in this post, The Sunday Bench is beautifully crafted from solid White Ash and made to last a lifetime.

As I've mentioned before, a bench seat has been on my wishlist for sometime. I love their simple form and versatility, but sourcing something locally that didn't blow the budget proved tricky. When I discovered The Sunday Bench I felt my prayers had finally been answered. Designed to be used in different ways in multiple rooms, and to fit in a variety of interior styles, its understated design, Scandi-style and clean lines are perfect for our home. Having always envisaged placing a bench seat at the end of the bed or in the hallway, as soon as I saw the Black version I knew it was made for our dining area! While I certainly don't mind a bit of mismatching when it comes to chairs, I decided a while ago I wanted to stick to all black seating. The Sunday Bench has finally made my dream come true and I couldn't be happier with the result. It got a big thumbs up from my design-conscious husband and the boys are also pretty chuffed, both now wanting to sit on the new bench at dinner time!

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

The Sunday Bench also comes in blonde (natural). Available exclusively at The Sunday Kind, online orders can be shipped around NZ and Australia, and further internationally on request. With new products in the pipeline, be sure to follow The Sunday Kind Instagram for exciting updates.

This post was created in collaboration with The Sunday Kind.

I finally made a start on my Christmas shopping, but as always I get a little stumped when it comes to my other half. I'm sure many of you feel the same, and not just when it comes to your partner, but also male family members and friends. Here's a roundup of my current online picks for the hard-to-buy-for man.

by Lassen Kubus Small Black Bowl from Urban Couture

aHead Wireless Headphones in Black from Paper Plane

Menu Norm Tumbler Alarm Clock from Tim Webber Design

Dark Blackness A3 Poster from By Garmi

Stelton Pure Black Knife Series from Simon James Concept Store

Wine Breather Deluxe in Gold by Menu from Simon James Concept Store

Grown Alchemist Handwash - Sweet Orange, Cedarwood and Sage from Superette

The Card Wallet (optional embossed initials) by Don't Tell New York

The Overnighter by Don't Tell New York

Menu Spoonless Container in Carbon from LET LIV

Now or Never Notebook by Blacklist Studio from Mildred & Co

Moscot Lemtosh Sunglasses from Simon James Concept Store

Zakkia Vinter Concrete Soy Candle from LET LIV

Black Canvas & Leather Camera Strap by Paper Plane

I love Ugly Archibald Watch from Tim Webber Design

Some of you will have seen on Instagram that we recently welcomed the Block Table by Normann Copenhagen into our home. Designed by Simon Legald, this wonderfully versatile piece of furniture has so many uses as both a side table and for storing or displaying items. Easily moved around, it looks beautiful beside both our bed and sofa, but I suspect it may end up in my office very soon as it looks right at home there. It would also make a great drinks trolley don't you think? Choosing from the gorgeous range of colours wasn't easy but the light grey is perfect. I will share some more of the Block Table around our home in due course, but for today's post I thought I'd use it to style a few new things and some great Christmas gift ideas!

As you can see I can't get enough of the watercolour artworks by Mini Grandi Artist. I am so happy to have added the stunning Storm at the Beach art print to my collection. The lovely white Ball Vase and cute little Christmas Trees are from Swedish concept store Cooee. The Ball Vases come in a range of pretty, muted colours in different sizes and look amazing grouped together.

A new discovery, Bandhu is a a beautiful jewellery brand from the Netherlands. Their simple, minimalist aesthetic fits my style perfectly. The unique, one of kind pieces are made from various kinds of reused leather, as seen below with the 'White Lizard' Parallel Bracelet and Tiny Bar Necklace and the 'Snake' Union Bracelet. Taken from the old Sanskrit language, Bandhu means friendship, friend, and guardian. Arriving beautifully packaged, this jewellery is made to be gifted!

In other jewellery news, An Organised Life have launched a new Limited Edition Time Piece made by Christian Paul. Known for their stylish, minimal and monochrome aesthetic, the watch is the perfect addition to the brand's beautiful product range. It follows on from the launch of their Limited Edition 2016 Diary, which comes in a custom black gift box with the exclusive 'An Organised Life Pen', and the new Leather Look Notebook, which I was lucky to have personally monogrammed with my initials.

Boutique candle company Lumira have launched not one but three new collections just in time for Christmas. The first is Callezione Bianca. Inspired by American minimalist Ellsworth Kelly, Lumira’s Collezione Bianca is a tribute to the beauty, simplicity and purity of Kelly’s relief works, combined with an exploration in premium, exotic fragrances to enhance our daily rituals with a sense of style and ceremony. A private candle collection of three fragrances, Collezione Bianca have been carefully created with the purpose that each individual fragrance can be burnt at a specific time of the day; La Primavera evokes a sense of daylight with a spirited and youthful nature, whilst the warmer scents of Sirocco evoke memories of summer days and finally Darsana delivers sensual and nocturnal notes. The result of 12 months development, these incredible candles deliver a truly beautiful, luxury product that is handcrafted and finished at every level – from hand pouring to the final touches on the packaging. Pure perfection, you have to see and smell them for yourself! Stay tuned for more on the new collections, including something exciting in the New Year!

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

This post was created in sponsorship with Normann Copenhagen and in collaboration with Bandhu, An Organised Life and Lumira. I only work with products I love and all opinions are my own. For more information please visit my About Page.

This kitchen combination is one I'm loving right now. The utilitarian elements are not only functional, they give the often white and bright aesthetic of Scandi style kitchens an industrial edge. A simple hanging bar for pots, pans and utensils in an otherwise understated, elegant kitchen is one of my favourite features.

Stadshem listing via Delikatissen

3D Rendered Kitchen listed via Alexander White

Styling by Tina Hellberg and photo by Johan Sellén via Elle Decoration

Kitchen via IKEA Livet Hemma

Steeles Road London by SevilPeach

Hanging rods work beautifully against a white palette and pale wood or marble. Metal shelves and wall-mounted knife racks are other ways of adding a utilitarian feel. Copper accents, soft industrial lighting and concrete also go hand in hand with this style.

Dornbracht Kitchen Products

Boffi Kitchenology 2015 Campaign / Styling by Elisa Ossino / Photography by Tommaso Sartori

3D Rendered Kitchen by Triangleform

Well that's it for another week. Less than one more to go before the kids finish school and then it's the countdown till Christmas! I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with how much I have to get through before with both work projects and shopping, but I will do my best to post as often as I can between now and then. If like me you still have gifts to buy, remember to check out the TDC Christmas Gift Gift Guide series here and here, for easy online shopping ideas. I will be rounding it off with the kids one next week.

Happy Friday! x

I have discovered a few new and innovative furniture design concepts lately that I thought I'd share with you today. First up, design company Tylko who have created a revolutionary app that offers a new way of designing and purchasing furniture. Founded by creative interdisciplinary Polish designers Hanna Kokczyńska and Jacek Majewski, entrepreneur Benjamin Kuna, architect Nikolaj Molenda and parametric designer Michal Piasecki, Tylko has launched with three new modern designs. The minimalist Ivy Shelf and Hub Table is created in collaboration between Tylko and world-known designer Yves Béhar, and the Totem Mill created by Krystian Kowalski. Allowing for risk-free shopping online, the app enables the customer to recreate and change various perimeters of the product in including height, width, depth as well as material and colour, to fit perfectly into their space. Pretty clever don't you think?

Images: This is Paper via Tylko

Merging a sofa with occasional furniture, the Two Be collection was created by Spanish design brand Vitale Studio and produced by Koo International. The hybrid design has a Scandinavian feel and modular concept that allows the user to configure a setup that works best for their space. The wooden table structure provides a great place to keeps things at hand, and is also made to hold metal accessories for additional storage and function.

Images: Design Milk via Estudio Vitale

Taking the 'Ikea Hack' to new levels, most of you will be familiar with SuperFront, the Swedish company that designs fronts, sides, tops, handles and legs to fit Ikea's most famous cabinet frames. A playful and thoughtful concept, it not only enables people to create new and personalised furniture, it encourages the reuse and upcycling of current pieces. Recently, stylists Nina Holst, Jannicke Kråkvik & Alessandro D´Orazio, and Per Olav Sølvberg each designed a SuperFront cabinet that will be auctioned off at Blomqvist, with the money going to NRK´s telethon for the Rainforest (Regnskogfondet). Gorgeous designs and all for a great cause. What could be better?

Design and styling by Nina Holst/Stylizimo

Design and styling by Jannicke Kråkvik & Alessandro D´Orazio

Design and styling by Per Olav Sølvberg

Photography by Veslemøy Vråskar via Stylizimo

Finishing up the Christmas Gift Guide Series with some gorgeous picks for the kiddies, here are some last-minute gift and stocking filler ideas.

Geo Shapes Skateboard Deck by One Hundred Percent Heart

Casper Capsule PJ Set by Pop Factory Shop

Lightning Bolt Wall Hooks by The Wall Collective

Block Pegboard from Leo & Bella

Lola Sunglasses in Yellow Jelly Mirror by Sons + Daughters

Sew Heart Felt Celeste Unicorn Head from Leo & Bella

Soaring Hearts Tutu Dress in Lait from Tutu Du Monde

Kip & Co Grey Cord Beanbag from LET LIV

Black Graffiti Pillowcase by Henry and Co

Mouse Bookends in Black from Cooee Design

The Goodies Sack by Pop Factory Shop

Lucky Boy Sunday Bad Eye Lily from Simon James Concept Store

I know not all of you are on Instagram so I like to keep the blog up to date with a summary of my 'life in squares'. It also gives me a chance to introduce you to some new finds along with direct links for easy reference... and shopping! I'm not sure about you but while Christmas time is definitely all about giving (predominantly to the kids!) I can't resist treating myself to a few new things too.

Firstly I have to tell you about the new brand ILA founded by Karen Mordechai of Sunday Suppers, the renowned food and design community based in Williamsburg Brooklyn. A gorgeous collection of essential ingredients for your kitchen and home, carefully sourced and delivered to you with great care and purpose, I was lucky to be sent the Black Lava Salt to try out. Beautifully packaged, the dramatic black colour and texture of the salt is amazing. Drawn from activated coconut shell charcoal found in the earth, the salt is harvested from Molokai, Hawaii by hand using a thousand-year-old tradition. Renowned for its health benefits, which include antioxidant properties and enhanced digestive health, a sprinkle takes even the simplest of dishes to the next level.

Still looking for gift ideas? The Jo Malone Christmas Collection features an incredible range of gifts for both her and him. I can highly recommend the Pine & Eucalyptus Candles. Divine! Now available in store at the Jo Malone London Boutiques, including Britomart Auckland, for international stockists visit the Store Finder.

Creators of the Original Roundie Towel, The Beach People have launched their second collection, Volume Two which includes The Paloma pictured above. Inspired by seas near and far, each Roundie was designed to whisk you away to the dreamiest holiday locations around the world and bring bliss to your next seaside adventure. A must-have for summer, check out all of the gorgeous new designs here.

I have a soft spot for beautiful tutus, having worn a fair few in my ballet days, all of which I still have. I still remember going to fittings and being fascinated with the detailing of the netting and intricate sequinned bodices. Australian brand Tutu Du Monde, the creation of celebrated designer Andrea Rembeck captures the magic with an exquisite range of tutus for little girls. I picked out the In The Clouds Tutu Dress in Sand for the special daughter of a close friend recently.

New discovery, British designer Anna Pugh creates timeless luxury leather handbags, known for their buttery soft leather and focus on shape. Just in time for the party season, Anna made me an Ava clutch and the craftsmanship is superb. Definitely one to watch, Anna Pugh's upcoming projects include a collaboration with womenswear brand Jigsaw and an appearance at the National Portrait Gallery shop for the Vogue: 100 A Century of Style Exhibition in February 2016.

Sitting next to my new handbag is a pair of AGE Eyewear sunglasses from LET LIV. The new NZ-designed eyewear brand pride themselves on creating unique, handmade designs. Believing that age is something you feel, not see (amen to that) AGE references vintage styles influenced by the ‘50’s through to the experimental ‘70’s, yet also appreciates the modern details, manifested in materials, finish and practicality. I'm so in love with mine I may need a second pair!

I'm thoroughly enjoying the Nespresso Limited Edition Variations right now. Inspired by the festive season, they include three delicious flavours; Vanilla Amaretti, Vanilla Cardamom and Ciocco Ginger. I also attended the Nespresso Flagship Boutique in Auckland last week. In true Nespresso style, they put on a fabulous night and the gorgeous store is a wonderful addition to our CBD.

Lastly, a look at Roman's room with the Geo Black Skate Deck from One Hundred Percent Heart. You may remember seeing the Geo Shapes one in my Christmas Gift Guide for the Kids yesterday. They make such a great piece of wall art. See the full collection here.

All Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for The Design Chaser Instagram (@thedesignchaser)

I've been admiring the inspiring work of Melbourne-based Architect Rob Kennon since featuring this striking home earlier in the year. Sharing one of his most recent projects today, Lees House in Northcote, Victoria, you'll see the distinct similarities in terms of style and materials used.

I love the clean contemporary aesthetic and use of raw materials including exposed concrete and plywood. The warmth of the predominantly pale wood surroundings are offset by grey and black accents, providing a unique edge and contrast. The black cabinetry and tapware in the kitchen is one of my favourite features. Not just visually appealing, the Art Deco home has been designed with programmed spaces specific for individual functions. Everything looks and sounds so impeccable, it makes me want to move in and test it out!

Photography by Brooke Holm

Images via Rob Kennon Architects

Nadja Mini Helminen is one of my favourites to follow on Instagram (@nadjamini), and when I find the time, I love catching up on additional imagery she shares on The Way We Play as blogger Mamamini. The Stockholm-based blogger and Mum of two has an incredible home so I wasn't at all surprised when she mentioned recently that it was featured in the newest issue of Residence magazine. Styled by Lotta Agaton and photographed by Kristoffer Johnsson, the results simply stunning.

The white canvas and pared back approach allows the home's original detailing to stand out. Bright and spacious, the marble and brass accents add just the right amount of texture and a luxe feel. Layers of linen, stacks of magazines and dark and moody blooms add further interest. I love it all!

Styling by Lotta Agaton and photography by Kristoffer Johnsson for Residence magazine

Images via Kristoffer Johnsson, Lotta Agaton/Link Deco and Mamamini

Natural materials, warm minimalism and beautiful textures have been recurring themes for 2015 so it makes sense that Christmas follow suit. I've picked out some beautiful imagery from around the web that is providing inspiration for last-minute decorating, food prep, table settings and of course, gift wrapping.

Via Local Milk

Photography by Bjørn Johan Stenersen

Styling by Lotta Agaton and photography by Mikkel Mortensen via Residence

I hope you all have a magical Christmas day. I will be taking some time out to spend with family but I'll continue to post updates to Instagram over the break. I'm also planning on bringing you some highlights from my blog archives, so be sure to check back in to TDC over the holiday period. The kids are off school till February here in NZ, so we're heading away to the beach in the last week of January for some much needed rest and relaxation. Then it's full steam ahead for 2016!

A heart felt thanks to all of you for your positivity and support this year, both on the blog and social media.

Happy holidays! x

Happy New Year! I hope you're all having a great start to 2016. I was delighted when Issue Two of Together Journal arrived in my mailbox earlier than expected. The beautiful magazine which launched late last year offers a fresh new concept in wedding inspiration. Founded by talented wedding photographer Greta Kenyon whose work I have admired for a long time, it was born from a simple idea that there was space for something new and unique, with both style and substance. Greta says "Together Journal inspires and showcases the kinds of weddings that we and our friends and their friends want to have."

Culminating the work of the most talented in the trade and the brightestcreatives including photographers, writers, designers, stylists and artists, the quarterly publication will appeal not only to those planning a wedding, but anyone who appreciates great design. Blown away by the stunning layout and beautifully curated content showcased in the first issue, I was delighted when Greta approached me about being interviewed for Issue Two. I chatted to editor Josie Steenhart about interior trends and how I would incorporate these into wedding styling, along with a little shoot at home by Delena Nathuran. Another gorgeous issue, I am truly honoured to be a part of it!

I love how Together Journal features real life couples, like Juliet and Justin Souter who are gracing the cover. Juliet is the Designer & Director of Marle label and wears her own custom wedding gown created by Zambesi. Justin also wears Zambesi. Cover shot by Coralee Stone, styled by Greta Kenyon, with cover illustration by Chloe Ruby Art.

Still very much in holiday mode, I styled the magazine alongside a breakfast for two this morning. My husband was most appreciative!

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

Issue Two of Together Journal is available from selected stockists and can also be purchased online.

Prior to Christmas I mentioned I would be starting the year with an archive series and today I'm excited to be kicking things off with some of the best bedroom posts to date. Picking out some favourites amongst those that have had the most visits, it's been fun looking back through previous posts, some of which even I have forgotten about! Whether you're revisiting these standouts or discovering them for the first time, I hope you gain some fresh ideas and inspo for the year ahead.

Simply click on the link below each image to see more.