Verdigris Vie

October: Cozy Sweaters, Baking Pies, and Simple Joys

2024-10-19T16:43:00.008-04:00

October is a month of serene beauty and comforting rituals. As the leaves transform into vibrant colors, we find solace in layering up with our softest, most beloved sweaters. The gentle chill in the air invites us to slow down, embrace the moment, and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

Zara Sweater

The kitchen becomes our sanctuary, filled with the warm and inviting aroma of baking pies. There's a meditative joy in rolling out dough, slicing crisp apples, and sprinkling a touch of cinnamon. Baking is not just about the end result, but about the process and the love poured into each step.

Pie Credit

Lazy weekends become a haven of relaxation. Sleeping in, wrapped in cozy blankets, we savor the quiet mornings, letting time drift away as we enjoy the peaceful stillness. These moments are a precious retreat from the hustle of everyday life.

Sleeping In

Evenings are best spent with friends, sharing simple dinners that nourish both body and soul. Around the table, we gather for heartfelt conversations and laughter, over bowls of steaming soup or plates of roasted vegetables. These gatherings are the essence of autumn, a blend of warmth, friendship, and gratitude.

Dinner Party

October invites us to embrace a slower pace, finding beauty in the everyday moments. Layering up in sweaters, baking pies, savoring lazy weekends, and enjoying simple dinners with friends—these are the joys of the season, each one a gentle reminder to live fully and appreciate the present.

Runway to Room: Fall Inspo

2023-10-19T21:00:00.001-04:00

I am reviving an old favorite for fans of fashion and interior design.. Runway to Room is where I take some of my favorite looks of the season and see how they would fare in a room interior. The result? You be the judge!

Above; Erdem smokey blue coat with embroidered florals in green, gray and white meets this fabulous Elle Decor living room.

A classic combination of rich browns with a pinch of cobalt blue, In this series, Coach meets the talented Susanne Kasler.

Not going to lie, for Fall 2016, this is my favorite look. Colombian Design House Pepa Pombo meets Barry Dixon and his timeless Vervain bedroom.

Michael Ciriano's collection killed it this fall. Subtle with hints of colour. Although perfect for a polished professional, I was surprised to see how well it played out in this lving room! (Source unknown)

You won't be surprised to learn that this was the easiest to match. Ralph Lauren's Classic American style has been the inspiration for fashion and interiors since forever. Add to that an injection of equestrian details, and the result is tailored but casual perfection. Room by Built by Wilson.

Top Ten Trees

2019-12-25T13:14:00.000-05:00

In no particular order, my top ten Christmas Trees! I will admit my family might plan a rebellion against some of my selections here, but there is a time and place for any of these options. Clean and simple, bright and colourful, or luxe and lavish. Enjoy

All trees found here!

Road Trip

2019-11-03T09:43:00.003-05:00

I have missed these beautiful editorials that tell tales of adventure and romance. Beautiful clothes, dreamy model, perfect sunlight, vintage cars... It's interesting how we draw on the past to highlight the present. I have long obsessed with old meets new, so this editorial has me relishing in the details. Leathers and knits, chiffon and tweeds. So many beautiful timeless touches to these contemporary looks.

Find all credits here!

Classic Woods and Whites

2019-02-28T20:50:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time since I went rummaging through the website pages of my favorite designer Mariette Himes Gomez of Gomez Associates. Thank goodness, I had this random urge to see if the site had been updated because I discovered some beautiful new projects. In particular this beauty, known only as Candela Duplex, which I am going to assume is somewhere in New York.

This is really Gomez's signature style; crisp white and the warmest almost golden woods. Don't even try to mimic this yourself, because it won't work. There is genius behind the paint finishes, the trim details, the placement of art and and antique furnishings and the styling of shelves. It's layers and layers of hand picked simple and elegant style. The living room above actually has a paint application on it designed to look like wood, how brilliant. Below, in my dream dining room,which of course, should be used as an office, a beautiful dining set. Anywhere else, it might look tired, but here it sits perfectly with a crisp and clean backdrop.

This kitchen is everything! In a world where everyone is painting cabinets navy blue, and yellow and green. Gomez opts for rich walnut, a fresh take on the all white kitchen. A few images below, the most delightful master bedroom. Staying true to her paired down roots, all white, nothing overstated, but a beautifully crafted iron canopy bed, and antique chest and standing clock.

I will leave you to explore the rest, but I tell you, I have got some serious home envy.

Kyoto, Japan

2019-02-11T21:20:00.000-05:00

We are planning the most incredible trip this summer, and I am completely overwhelmed and excited about it. We are taking a full 4 weeks to travel far off to the other side of the world. We start in Japan, rest in Maldives and wrap up in Spain. I have been planning itineraries, making lists of things to do, what to pack, where to eat, and how to manage it all with a family. But you know, something tells me it's all going to work out.

Since we aren't really city folk, one of the highlights for us is spending a week in Kyoto. It has all the charm of an ancient city, it's surrounded by lush greenery, and it won't be nearly as packed as Tokyo. There is a bamboo forest to explore, beautiful temples and gardens, museums, and theatre, and food, so much food to eat! So here is a little Kyoto teaser, for me and for you. I am sure I will have plenty to report when I get back.

Spring Zimmerman

2019-02-01T20:24:00.000-05:00

https://us.zimmermannwear.com/explore/spring-ready-to-wear-2019-ninety-six/lookbook/Lookbook

https://fashioneditorials.com/zimmermann-spring-2019-ready-to-wear-campaign/

Friday Furniture Fix with Green and Gold

2019-01-26T22:04:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday. I have got a mid-century inspired furniture fix to kick off the weekend. I have been obsessing over green and gold of late, especially when it comes to sofas. It's no surprise that green green is my favorite colour, wherever it falls on the spectrum. But lately, it's been super exciting to see green make a comeback, in cabinetry, painted furniture and upholstery. So here is a little living room inspiration.

1. Lacuna by Sarina Diakos

I love a great abstract painting, and artist Sarina Diakos has a collection of the most colourful paintings, originals or prints. I selected this particularly moody one for it's organic and earthy feel, to compliment this mid-century inspired room.

2. Circa Lighting Floor Lamp

I picked this Circa Lighting lamp because of it's clean line, and bronze finish, but also because I feel like it would give off good light. You need good reading light in the evenings, and this would pair perfectly, in the green room.

3. Sven Sofa in Grass Green from Article

I have been stumbling onto green velvet sofa's everywhere, from pinterest to design mags, and this one from Article has been following me all over the Internet. (Thank you google trackers) It's also available in a sectional, which is equally fabulous. Velvet in general is pretty much my favorite fabric for a sofa, especially since the colour has variations it. What I think I am really a fan of here is that the sofa, has beautiful tailoring, while still coming across as plush.

4. Bernhardt Blanchard Cocktail Table

Since I worked in metal most of my life, I don't feel a room is complete without some type of iron or metal furnishing in it. This elegant coffee table by Bernhardt features a polished brass base and a white marble top. I like adding a little sophistication to the mix. Although, I did consider a table more aligned with the mid-century period, this one was the winner.

5. Arteriors Normandy Credenza

It's typical of me to fall in love with things that I can't afford. Such is the case for the Arteriors Normandy Credenza, that is possibly one of the more beautiful modern crafted pieces I have seen in a while. Veneer rift cut oak, creating a beautiful radial pattern on each of the doors. large brass round pulls, and resting on top of fine tapered legs. This is completely in line with my love of mixing old an new world designs.

6. Yellow gold blown glass vase

I found this little gem on Wayfair. I knew that I wanted to draw out some yellow from the painting, and I think this piece has both a colour and shape that feel a little rough and raw, that adds interest to some of the more refined pieces in the room.

So there you have it friends! Enjoy a magical weekend.

Vie

Hidden Stories

2019-01-14T09:57:00.000-05:00

Hold Course

Stumbling on a painting by Tracie Cheng is like falling in love with the opening paragraph of a new book. Only now, the story is yours to dream up. I am not sure if the images are those of a life unraveling or coming together. Is it a beginning or an ending? I only feel an organic transition, and the cusp of change. Either way, what perfect inspiration to kick off a New Year.

Naturally, I had to dig into this artists life, and I was lucky enough to find a blog called Canvas, and a feature called Inside the Studio, that answered some great questions. I wasn't surprised to learn that much of Tracie's inspiration comes from natural phenomenons. However, I was delighted to read that this all started with a love of topographical maps. Yes, maps! All those beautiful intricate lines, creating depth and dimension.

Hop over to Canvas if you care to read a little more about Tracie, but more importantly, hop over to Tracie's site, to explore some more of these beautiful works.

The Watching

From Above

Persistence

The Divide

Scattered Remnants

Always Waiting

Beautiful Winter

2018-12-21T22:05:00.000-05:00

Photo by Ted Tiedemann

I love Winter. My husband says it's because I don't shovel the snow. ( He's a joker) But in all honesty, I just really love winter. I love the crisp cool air, I love bundling up with sweaters and coats, I love rosy cheeks and frosty toes. I especially love the beautiful white blanket that covers the earth, and when the trees ice over and they look like glass.

Ok, I don't like to shovel, and I don't like the white knuckle drives, but I like the hot milky coffees and warm baths, so I guess that makes up for it.

Either way, it's officially winter.

Happy Winter Solstice.

Photo by Teddy Kelley

Photo By Ali Inay

Photo by Jeffrey Hamilton

Classic Holiday House

2018-11-27T21:29:00.000-05:00

I can't deny my love for a traditional home. From furniture to floor plan, colours and fabrics, it seems I always end up exactly where I started. I especially can't deny a classic holiday house. And this one, surprisingly, is in Arizona. It's sunshine and lollipops, instead of snowstorms and hot chocolates.

Take a look around at the delicate array of greenery, and hints of gold and glitter sparkling from the sunny days. Take a moment to appreciate this homeowners pride of curating furniture and accents, the wrought iron table, and gold gilded mirror, blue and white vases, antique dressers, and iron canopy bed. You can discover more at Traditional Home. But for now, I am enjoying this hint of inspiration as we about to enter the Christmas Season!

Happy Decorating, Vie

Sweaters and Overcoats

2018-10-16T12:13:00.000-04:00

Just thinking of all the ways I plan to keep warm this winter!

Editorial Credits from Fashion Editorials

Sculptural and Refined

2018-08-21T11:37:00.000-04:00

How can you resist admiring this brilliant design where classic style meets modern architecture. In this 19th century 12,500 s ft town house, Steven Harris, architect, decided to start over. Instead of maintaining any of the homes original features, they moved all of the primary rooms on to the main floor. Added modern paneling throughout, and contrasted with rich oak floors. Minimalist in all rooms from the kitchen to the master suite, with the exception of the grand unraveling staircase. A wonderful dramatic masterpiece, to admire upon entrance.

You will find the ultimate minimalist kitchen. below, along with the most peaceful living room, and another space that looks to be a project room.

Enjoy the tour, Vie

The Brilliance above by

Steven Harris Architects

White Rock

2018-07-14T01:11:00.002-04:00

If you love nature as much as I do, the next few images are going to take your breath away. Set upon a rocky shoreline, Stylist Sara Bascunan creates an ethereal image of delicate beauty and harsh nature. I gift you your summer style inspiration. I am usually a little more thorough uncovering the details, but this editorial was featured in Mujer Hoy, a Spanish magazine, and info on the clothing selected was a little hard to find. Nonetheless, I am going to admire each piece, all in white, elegant and perfectly tailored. I promise to update as soon as I find out who is responsible for these beautiful pieces, especially this perfect white dress.

The Vegan Months

2018-05-15T13:22:00.000-04:00

If you are even remotely considering going vegan, for good or for a a few months, you have to spend some time on The Minimalist Baker. Dana takes the terrifying, there-is-no-way-in-hell out of vegan, and replaces it with a lot of, that-looks-delicious-it-cant-be-that-hard. Take for example this Cauliflower Dal Green Curry If you love Indian flavours, and like a little heat. this is sure to satisfy. I play around with vegan, a few times a year, just to keep things interesting, I like to go easy on the meat eating, and dairy, and get back to basics. I always find it is a bit of a challenge to get started, but once I get going I am good for a few straight months. So here I am browsing recipes getting ready for the vegan months!

Yours Truly, Vitania

Workplace Favourite: The Lagunitas Lounge

2018-04-10T12:25:00.000-04:00

I have to admit that I am obsessed with this Sofa Lounge. It's called the Lagunitas, designed by Coalesse/Steelcase, and believe it or not, its intended for the office. It doesn't look or feel like your typical office lounge, and that is exactly the point! I am lucky enough to get to sit in one of these, because I am at the Steelcase showroom often enough, and it's my favorite place to work.

Maybe because it's nestled in the work cafe, and every time I park there, someone is sure to stop by and say hello. Maybe it's because I am usually hauling into Toronto form the suburbs, and it's a comfortable seat after an hour commute. It could also be the exceptional view form the 24th floor. But mostly I think it's because it's designed to allow for a couple of different postures. Whether it's lean back and think, or sit up and type, I get a lot accomplished in this cozy corner. The seat actually articulates into a more supportive position when you need to sit up and focus. It even comes with a privacy screen, so you don't feel like someone is breathing down your neck. Obsessed, I tell you. I am considering one for home. Maybe just the private one like below.

Your Truly, Vitania

Home Meets Work

2018-02-13T21:20:00.000-05:00

In the event you haven't stumbled across One Kings Lane in your search for furniture and decor over the internet, allow me to introduce you to a great little place to search for everything for the home from beautiful brands. Unfortunately, they don't ship to Canada or anywhere else outside the US, but it is still a great place to explore. As you can probably imagine, when OKL was ready to move into a new space for their New York headquarters, they wanted to create a place that was not only an inspiring place to work but one that represents their curated style. They partnered with a multi disciplinary design firm, AE Superlab, to create a truly inspiring workspace. Given the latest movement in workplace design, to create environments that feels more relaxed and inviting, OKL's headquarters really take home the prize. From brass lighting in their dining area, and soft seating fit for a family room, to meeting rooms and a library that could easily be the place where the family gathers. I am thinking One Kings Lane could be the dreamiest place in the world to work!

New Year, New Rules

2018-01-09T23:59:00.000-05:00

I am not sure if anyone else woke up in January with a bit of a fire under their seat, but that has certainly been the case for me. I like resolutions and I have always tried to theme my years. It's a little easier when you say, this is the year I am going to focus on my career, or this is the year I am going to take the trip. 2018 is the year I focus on me. The last few years have been a little more challenging than I would have liked. I made some huge changes last year, and this year it's paying off with less stress and a fresh perspective. In general, I think I suffer from what a lot of people suffer from, in particular, the "I come last" syndrome. And I don't even think it's intentional. There are only so many hours in a day, and sometimes there just aren't any left. for me. But, I have come to the conclusion, based on the extra pounds that are impossible to lose, and some of the aches and pains I feel in the morning, that if this year isn't the year of me, I could be setting myself up for a slow decline in my health. I am pretty sure the kids are going to be alright if I go to Yoga every night, and the emails are still going to be there if I take a real lunch, and also no one will miss me if I shut down my phone for 8pm. So I am clearing my schedule and going to build in a lot of time for me.

It's a New Year, and I have got New Rules.

1) Exercise Every Day 2) Plan meals better 3) Get lots of sleep 4) Go to the doctor

I am kind of thrilled.

Happy New Year Friends!

Image Via Le Buzz

Image Via Marion Michele

1st Image via Luke Blazek

Simple in Stockholm

2017-11-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Have I ever shared the dream with you? If I haven't, here it is. A condo in the city and a cottage in the country. It's that simple, the best of both worlds. Right now my "best of both worlds" is the suburbs. A train ride into the city, and short drive out to conservation land and charming small towns. So on that note, I present some inspiration on my future city condo. It's so small and packed with relentless style, from chevron floors, to a sleek modern kitchen, slip covered sofa, and even a modern twist on a claw foot tub. This beautiful retreat is located in Stockholm, but I think it will serve me well here in Toronto!

All images Historika Hem

Atmosphere by Ian Fisher

2017-10-10T19:10:00.000-04:00

I am in love with this series of paintings from Canadian born artist Ian fisher. This extensive collection, takes inspiration from the skies above, appropriately titled Atmosphere. Have you heard of of the Biophilia Hypothesis? It simply suggests that as human beings we instinctively seek out connections to nature and living things. Inviting art works like this one into your home or workplace, can actually affect your well being positively. How simple is that?

I can tell you for sure that one of these masterful pieces hanging on my wall, will definitely increase my well being! What do you think?

All images are from artist Ian Fisher.

Castle on the Hill

2017-09-12T16:45:00.000-04:00

We went to Scotland this summer, and it was a dream vacation. It was our first big trip overseas. Just the four of us. A long overdue getaway for my family after a few challenging years. I was so excited to finally be out of the chaos and to get to enjoy some time away from work and emails. Excited to tear the kids away from video games, and tablets. Excited to take a break from cooking and errands. Excited to be out exploring new lands. Scotland turned out to be everything we needed and more. Long drives on beautiful country roads, plenty of great little restaurants to eat at, discovering castles on hills and quaint little villages.

We were there for 3 weeks withing July and August. (the last week actually spent in England) We flew into Glasgow, and then rented a car, and drove all the way through Glencoe to Inverness, Then wound back down the East side to St. Andrews and Edinburgh. We fell in love with peace and tranquility. We actually drove all the way down to York England, another fascinating little town, dropped off the car and spent the rest of the trip on a train. The weather was cool, but perfect for exploring. A couple of rainy days that couldn't spoil our fun either.

All the images below are mine. It was impossible to take a bad picture. Every corner was a post card.

Can't wait for our next adventure.

Vie

Seaside Cottage

2017-08-08T08:00:00.000-04:00

Everybody needs a little escape that is far enough to get away from the city noise, but close enough to invite your loved ones for peace and tranquility. Although, I think peace and tranquility is hard to achieve during the fun sunny days of summer. Stumbled upon this breathtaking cottage over on Skona Hem. This place has everything going for it, just by location alone: a sweet little hill top over looking the sea. But when you add smart design, it really takes things to the next level. For starters, the sofa seating for the kitchen table. Forget banquette you get a sofa! I think this is brilliant, I almost want it in my home now! The house has a crisp aesthetic, but it's surrounded by beautiful gardens, so every wall invites the outside in. If you are lucky enough to be a guest at this house, you get a cottage to yourself. Check out the quaint guest house located at the highest point of the property.

All Images Skona Hem

Workplace Favourite: The Poppy chair

2017-06-15T23:45:00.001-04:00

Welcome to this new series on Workplace Trends. Since making the move from furniture maker to consulting on work environments, I have been pleasantly surprised by the shift in design taking place at the office of late, and more importantly the trends that are shaping the new workplace. I'll be sharing some of the things I discover along the way from cool new products, inspiring spaces, and how to make the most of the exciting changes happening at work!

As a furniture maker, I spent a lot of time learning and understanding the workmanship, quality and aesthetics that go into crafting a beautiful piece of furniture. With residential design influencing the modern workplace, it’s a very exciting time for furniture design in commercial environments. Designers are challenged to create products that are as visually stimulating as they are durable and comfortable. One designer that I have quickly become a fan of is Patricia Urquiola. Born in Spain, and now living in Milan, Patricia has a natural talent for blending the highly functional with inviting comforts. This is indeed the case for one my favorite pieces of Patricia’s Haworth collection; the poppy chair

The Poppy Chair truly embraces hybrid environments, thoughtfully tagged the “here, there and everywhere” chair. Suitable for inviting collaborative areas to comfortable and quiet heads down work, poppy is available with 3 bases, and in a range of beautiful colours. I have spotted this delightful perch at reception, at collaborative work tables and as guest seating in private offices, and it always makes work feel a little like home.

Today’s work environments differ dramatically from those of the past. With a greater understanding of how people work, spaces can be designed to engage, inspire, collaborate or focus. The Poppy chair fits seamlessly into any of these work spaces, injecting comfort, style and character for a most productive work place.

Yours Truly, Vitania

The Dark Side

2017-01-15T21:36:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about the dark side lately. The dark side of my wall of course! I have always been drawn to light and bright, but have recently found an entirely new appreciation for some dark drama. I am not sure I am brave enough to go entirely black, but one really bold wall could do the trick. The key, I suppose, would be to pair it with something really warm. The brilliance in these rooms is that they are grounded: a wood tone on the floor, a beautiful bedside dresser, even a super cozy blanket. And I also happened to notice they all have plants in them!

Fall Fashion Favorites

2016-10-23T10:36:00.001-04:00