Palatial Living

Weekend Butterfly...

2016-02-06T01:02:00.002+11:00

Welcome Weekend!

Here's to a stylish garden-scape and a pair of these gorgeous butterfly chairs.

Did you know about these chairs...

Widely known as BKF chairs in Argentina, the iconic Butterfly Chair was designed by three young architects by the names of Bonet, Kurchner and Ferrari-Hardoy in 1938. They were in turn, inspired by the Tripolina chair first used in North Africa by the British and then the Italians in the 19^th century.

Enormously popular worldwide and sold in the millions during the ‘50’s and ‘60’s, the Butterfly Chair, also known as the AA chair in Europe, remains a design icon, an internationally sought after furniture classic, possessing that rare quality that makes an object or person, a single distinguishable entity – STYLE

Enjoy your weekend - wherever it may be! S.

image via #pinterest see #http://www.muumuubutterflychairs.com.au/ for Australian made butterfly chairs

Top Ten Colours for 2016

2016-02-06T00:43:00.001+11:00

Somehow January has flown by already so to kick off the 2016 colour trends that you will start to see coming through stores - amongst homewares, furniture, lifestyle pieces, and fashion - apparel, accessories & make up. These colours have been largely taken from the essential swatch palettes of the S/S 16 and FW 16/17 looks.

These main hues, listed here, are the most impactful and be a tint or shade above or below thee are the ones to look out for. They range from bold earthy shades to dusty-muddy mid tone hues. Each individual colour is made to work into your own palette - not all together! Take a look at a great line up I found via Scarlet Opus from Laura Greenwood.

So here are your slim-lined Top Ten colours for 2016... Enjoy. S.

1. Lunar Gray – An extended palette of muted gray’s play a leading role as an important hue for this year. Taken from a trend that places focus on privacy, time and experience; this color works alongside refined neutrals to portray elegance and timeless fashions. Seen in a matte finish with tone on tone neutrals that are beautiful in their simplicity. This color remains important as the endurance of the new industrial style continues to strengthen.

2. Dusky Mauve – This soft, hazy hue is injected with a gray tone and portrays a poetic authenticity. This dulled, balanced pastel can be combined with moody tinted grays and muted Corals and Pinks with a chalky, powder-coated finish. Dusky Mauve provides a delicate harmony, it is quiet, subdued and projects a sense of well-being.

3. Muted Coral – We saw 2015 fashions embrace the Coral Shrimp as both a solid and accent color. Going forward, we will see this shade diffuse to be more restrained and low-key. It sits within a palette that suggests honesty and long-lived values – it is warm, sophisticated, all-encompassing and works together with mid-toned grays, Mint Green and Dusky Mauve. This is a color that projects a sun-kissed, fresh outlook and will move forward into 2017.

4. Mint Green – This color adds a fresh, contemporary sharpness when used as an accent within a palette. It almost glows when paired against deeper shades. Not only does it portray a pop of optimism and expresses a desire to be more adventurous, but it also encourages unconventional pairings, inspiring a confident use of color. Ombrés, color washes and graduations are the dominant effects when using this tone.

5. Pop Pink – This soda pink has a chalky, matte finish and maintains a New Retro feel. It is taken from a trend named ‘PLAY’ which embraces unexpected color and material combinations; a controlled chaos within urban lifestyles. Pop Pink has no sweetness and extends beyond feminine associations to emerge as a bold, graphic and modern design direction. It works best in a palette where Black is a dominant color and is most fascinating when pared with playful interactions of texture, pattern and shape.

6. Purple Iris – In contrast to the more vibrant tones of 2016, we will also celebrate the mystery and beauty of dark, dusky shades. The deep heather based tones add a level of sophistication and warmth to our 2016 palette. It radiates a jeweled opulence, and combines with warm brass metallic shades to inspire a dramatic, luxurious vibe. Yet it also feels familiar and comforting when combined with heritage fabrics and traditional patterned textiles; blurring the boundaries between modern and time-honored fashions.

7. Mars Rock – This grounded color is taken from our Astro Trend, which is inspired by the grittiness and raw textures of planetary surfaces. Once again we call on nature to inspire, this time in the form of its cracked, rock-like textures and rich crystallized forms. This baked earth tone brings a sophisticated essence into interiors and can be used alongside deep reds, terracotta and space-aged metallic’s to emphasis it’s evolutionary path.

8. True Red – Moving on from the Primal Red seen in 2015, this year True Red evolves to a softer tone. It balances out the intensity of some of the more vivid color contrasts when paired with tonal shades. This color is an essential hue in 2016 as it portrays an artisanal, handcrafted aesthetic where craftsmanship is valued and the beauty of ‘basic’ is admired.

9. Indigo Blue – Indigo make its presence felt throughout 2016, trending across both fashion and interiors. It is deep, mysterious yet stylish and sophisticated. Indigo is at its most striking and sumptuous alongside rich shades of wine, teal, warm metals, grays, dark wood tones and off white. This color longs for unconventional pairings to emphasis the unexpectedness of how it can be used within an interior.

10. Cobalt Blue – This color works in both contrasting and complimentary ways, it can be paired with a True Red for a bold, contemporary union, or combined with a crisp white for a more radiant effect. When paired with the Indigo blue and Mint green it suggests a more tonal, pleasing mixture. This color can be used both as an accent and a mono solid, where it’s unique, fresh vibrancy makes this a popular choice for 2016.

images & sub text via scarlet opus

Linen Luxe Bedding

2015-07-06T21:30:00.001+10:00

If you're like me bed linen is a compulsion of mine - it's up there with shoes! I can never have enough gorgeous sheets, pillow slips, and duvet covers - not to mention pillows. So when Palatial Living was approached by Parachute [Home] , a bedding linen & home wares business based in Venice L.A. United States, to look at their exciting new Linen range launch this past week - I was already enamored.

Parachute [Home] is the bed linen love child of creator & founder Ariel Kaye. Linen in bedding - I hear you say what? Linen has a beautiful natural quality that allows at each time you wear it and use it becomes softer with each touch. It has the dual ability to look both natural & relaxed whilst still sumptuous & luxurious.

A little fact I love from the Parachute site - did you know that...

You spend ⅓ of your life in bed, so your sleep experience matters.

I know that a good nights sleep is imperative to how I carry out my day and it's success - so comfortable and beautiful bedding is key for me. Ariel Kaye, creator & founder of Parachute (Home) is on this exact wave length, and decided to reinvent the way bedding is marketed and sold, creating her own company called Parachute, which sells bedding direct to the consumer. Parachute launched in January 2014, and on its website, product descriptions play up the use of 100 percent Egyptian cotton, the Italian quality woven fibres that get softer with use and the fact that products are made in Italy. Simplified Parachute bedding is designed in L.A, Made in Italy, and Delivered to Direct to you.

Originally Parachute would only offer two fabric choices — percale or sateen — and three colors — white, powder or ash. She also took into consideration the types of bundles she would sell, opting to sell one of her packages without the top sheet. This range concept soon grew to be able offer customers sheet sets, Venice sets, and duvet sets, as well as separates, and the hyperallergenic friendly - duvet insert themselves. And most recently the addition to the Parachute family & existing 2 fabrics on offer - the Linen range. Luxe Linen now available for your bed!

I adore the climatic synergies that are shared with Australian weather and the Southern Califormian climate - just where Parachute hails from. So why Linen? There are many reasons that Linen is perfect for your bed - a few to name....

Linen in it's appearance shares a dupoly, not only, in it's ability to create both coolness and warmth from it's natural fibires with low conductivity and ease to layer with other bedding, and continues to soften with use. Linen possesses high air permeability and heat conductivity properties. Heat conductivity of linen is five times as high as that of wool and 19 times as that of silk. In hot weather those dressed in linen clothes are found to show the skin temperature 3°-4°C below that of their silk or cotton-wearing friends. According to some studies, a person wearing linen clothes perspires 1.5 times less than when dressed in cotton clothes and twice less than when dressed in viscose clothes. Meanwhile in cold weather linen is an ideal warmth-keeper. So Linen over warmer months is a perfect choice for softness, and breathability.

All year 'round you can't go wrong. Now what colour to pick... plain dye White or Fog, or in French Ticking Stripe when in a Linen Blend

Importantly, and personally for me, I was pleased to learn that Parachute also gives back as a responsible & caring member of the business community. They believe that every one everywhere should have the ability to have a luxurious sleep - and so have partnered with Nothing But Nets, an organization that shares their interest in providing safe sleep to those in need.

For further enquiries on how you can get your own luxe Linen bedding range, and other gorgeous items - please contact Parachute Home. I cannot wait to get my own set of Parachute Linen {Luxe}range onto my bed... I'm leaning to 'Fog' perfect for Sydney-side #PalatialLiving. What about you?

Enjoy,

Sarah x #PalatialLiving

images via Parachute Instagram

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Do you have this... 5 Annoying Little Home Problems - For the Fix read here!

2015-05-29T15:52:00.001+10:00

Is there any way to make my whole house smell fresh without cleaning it from top to bottom

Solution: Sprinkle a few drops of vanilla extract onto your a/c filter. A drop of your favorite essential oil works, too. Or find a great household candle to burn when you are cleaning your home - open the windows up.

Great household candles that are inexpensive and a #PalatialLiving find are #Price's Household Candles - they have one that is called 'Open Window' in Australia they can be found in #Coles supermarkets. #Price’s (UK) is one of the world’s oldest candle manufacturers and produces candles of the highest quality see. this link for more details Their 'FRESH AIR' range are the candles I use in our home.

I need help hanging pictures and artwork, but first I need to patch the holes from my previous attempts.

Solution: To patch tiny holes, you'll need a putty knife and patching plaster. If you plan to repaint, look for a plaster and primer in one, like 3M Patch Plus Primer. The first rule when hanging pictures: Don't eyeball it. If you're going to hang multiple pictures, use newspaper to create true-to-size templates of your frames that you can arrange on the wall using painter's tape. Finally, don't align pictures with the ceiling or floor -- they might not be level. Instead, use a level to draw a faint line a few inches down from the ceiling and use that as your starting point.

I love my stainless-steel appliances but hate all the fingerprints.

Solution: We all have a love/hate relationship with stainless steel. To prevent fingerprints, apply a thin layer of olive oil to the surface using a soft cloth, also old stockings work well for this job.

Is it possible to remove rust stains in a porcelain sink?

Solution: Believe it or not, toothpaste might do the trick. Cover the stain with toothpaste and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Sprinkle with baking soda and rub it out with a clean, soft cloth.

Now I know why people say, "I don't do windows." How do you avoid streaks?

Solution: Try washing windows on a cloudy day. Otherwise the sun dries the cleaner before you can wipe it away. Use newspapers instead of paper towels. They do a better job, and they're less expensive.

As a pre-wash solutions #PalatialLiving uses a combination of sugar soap & eucalyptus wool wash with warm water & soft sponge to wash down any dirt grime prior to spraying the windows. A little extra elbow grease is required - but this gets the window sills & frame clean and ensures you're not rubbing dirt particles into the glass when using the spray.Hence making the whole job worthwhile - your total window will have instant yard appeal!

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Perhaps a few of these annoying house jobs, mentioned, are at your home? Now they can be quickly remedied over the weekend!

Enjoy,

Sarah x #palatialliving

images & subtext via BHG.com

5 Great Ideas for Your Hallway Foyer

2015-05-21T22:40:00.004+10:00

Don't Dismiss Decor.

With a little attention to styling, even a small console becomes a major design statement. Strategically hang a mirror to make the space feel twice as large. via my own style

Whether you have a narrow small space or a large open void for your front foyer - there's loads you can do with a few little tricks be it wallpaper or paint, baskets or hooks & decor.

Here's a few I found via #countryliving #goodhousekeeping that I thought were great to share with you that are in keeping with the Palatial Living mantra - 'Grand or Cosy. In & Out. All Things for Stylish Living', just for you.

Enjoy,

Sarah #PalatialLiving

Reimagine Your Closet.

Open up a cramped space and gain a helpful spot for extra seating by ditching the closet door. Hooks and baskets look decorative, but still provide ample storage for your stuff. via Sampson home

Get a Skinny Console

If your narrow hallway won't fit the average credenza, slim down. This DIY console makes the most of a tight space by offering extra style and a place to drop your keys. via east coast creative blog

Go Graphic

A small entryway means you can get away with a bold accent wall. Patterned wallpaper adds definition to a meager foyer and yields instant personality that might overwhelm anywhere else. via Design Indulgence

Add Hooks and a Bench

As long as you've got a place to tie your shoes and hang your coat, even the tiniest entryway will feel complete. via House Tweaking

images & subtext via #countryliving & #goodhousekeeping

Made With Love - Gifts for Your Mum

2015-05-06T21:39:00.004+10:00

DIY Cheese Markers

Any hostess will love getting handmade stamped cheese markers. To make this adorable Mother's Day gift, place vintage silver-plated forks between two felt pieces and flatten in a vise. Place the front side up on a metal block and use metal stamps and a hammer to mark the name of the cheese. Cut off a few inches at the top of the handle, then make a curly loop by wrapping the handle in felt and curling it backward using pliers

Made With Love - Gifts for Your Mum x

Not everyone wants to buy something for their Mum, not every Mum suits something store bought.

So with that - there's still time to get making something for your Mum.

Something clever, something purposeful and something gorgeous.

Here are some great ideas I have found across a couple of my fave home living sites.

Enjoy,

Sarah x #Palatial Living

Sweet Smelling Candle

There's no Mother's Day gift more classic than a fragrant candle. Pick a scent and color that fits your mother's personality and pair it with our DIY candleholders. To make, spray a light mist of water into a glass holder. Spray a light layer of metallic gold paint on the inside of the holder, painting over the water beads (it will leave the glass slightly translucent); let dry. Add a layer of gold glitter spray to finish.

Flower Seed Packets

Celebrate the sweetness both Mom and spring have to offer with flowers that will keep her smiling long after Mother's Day. Wrap store-bought seed packets for your mom's favorite blooms in easy-stitch burlap bags, and seal the bags with a plant marker. If you want to spice up the bag, pin a vintage picture of the flower on top for an added touch.

'Family" Kitchen Artwork

Family is what is most important on special days like Mother's Day. Give your mom this gift to remind her how much you care. To make, buy several wooden spoons -- one for each letter. Paint the ends of each spoon; let dry. Using a letter stencil, lightly blot white paint to make one letter on each spoon; let dry. Cut a piece of cardboard to fit the opening of a picture frame (make sure the frame can fit all spoons with a 1/2-inch border on all sides). Wrap white canvas around the front of the cardboard; hot-glue to secure. Insert in frame; hot-glue spoons to the canvas.

Message in a Jar

Get the kids involved with this cute Mother's Day gift -- a simple jar with notes telling her all the reasons she's loved. Have kids write their thoughts, or have them tell you their ideas and you write them down. Roll up the strips of paper and put them in a jar. Tie a bow around the jar for added flair.

Framed Butterfly Family Tree

Mum will love this spring-theme representation of the people she loves most in this easy-to-make family tree project. Design the layout on a separate sheet of paper, assigning different paper colors to different generations. Punch out two butterflies per family member with a crafts punch, and write their name on the top cutout. Keeping the center body on the top cutout flat, fold the wings up; this will give the butterflies a fluttery look. Glue the bodies of each pair of cutouts together using crafts glue or rubber cement. Place butterflies on a matte board and mark positions lightly with a pencil; glue in place on board. Frame the finished butterfly family tree.

images & sub text via bhg.com

Found. Mother's Day - A Few Best Gifts...

2015-04-28T08:00:00.000+10:00

via HardtoFind.com.au Home is wherever mum is print by BespokeMoments

Ships from CAMDEN, Australia $24.95 + FREE SHIPPING.

It's often hard to find just 1 great gift for your Mum - a gift that sums up a year plus of all the 'Thank You's' and something that is good enough for 'I love You ' that covers more than just one day. And if you're exceptionally lucky like me not only with my own mum, I also have this in my wonderful mother-in-law . So in some ways it makes it very tricky indeed!

I have a lovely little 5yr old daughter, Isabelle, who is a-tuned to all things and especially across what we find together window shopping and images I find through magazines. So much so she's started the phrase 'I wish I had...' as a wistful response much like her mother - me - to the idea of all the things she likes and finds! We make a list and go to #pinterest instead! Whilst nothing genuinely beats the hand picked and hand made items lovingly found at a preschool or school Mother's Day stall. Something I never comprehended until my own daughter proudly wrapped her own finds from a stall and deftly made with love a card filled with pictures of texta coloured flowers and cute figure drawings of her & I together in this fluro colourful garden....

A little online shopping also helps 'til they can buy you what you'd also like to use or wear!

So with that I've found a few of my favourite things that may just inspire you for Mother's Day gifts too... and coincidently from the beautifully curated Australian site that I have been a long time huge fan of 'hardtofind'

Enjoy,

Sarah - #PalatialLiving

via HardtoFind.com.au Mother's personalised tree of life chain bracelet by Merci Maman

Ships from London, United Kingdom .$149.00 + FREE SHIPPING

via HardtoFind.com.au Initial jewellery box by Rose St Trading Co

Ships from Armadale, Australia $119.95 + FREE SHIPPING

via HardtoFind.com.au Lapis lazuli blue suede fold-over clutch by The Goods

Ships from Avalon, Australia $129.00 + FREE SHIPPING. Pom Poms separate.

via HardtoFind.com.au Woven bracelet in cool mint & silver by theRubz

Ships from Warriewood, Australia $69.95 + FREE SHIPPING

via HardtoFind.com.au Boho sherbert washable leather gardening gloves by Homegrown & Handmade

Ships from Crossman, Australia $47.90 + FREE SHIPPING

via HardtoFind.com.au Hand-stamped Mother's Day single vintage teaspoonby Silver Spoon Vintage .

Ships from MILDURA, Australia $39.00 + FREE SHIPPING

via HardtoFind XOXO gold foil greeting card by Elm Paper

Ships from Norwood, Australia $6.50 + FREE SHIPPING

Inspired. Make Marks Daily.

2015-04-27T16:20:00.001+10:00

Make Marks Daily.

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Make Marks Daily

I recently read a great article in #AustralianCountryStyle (from Summer January 15 issue) on ceramicist and artist Claire Atkins. As I began reading her story it felt familiar - mainly because her quest & commitment over the course the year for 2014 was to 'Make Marks Daily'.It was this familiarity became apparent as I learnt that we are from same alumni design school, the College of Fine Arts UNSW in Paddington Sydney, also known as CoFA. Whilst Claire a '95 graduate and I a '99 grad we most likely shared a number of the same teachers & professors across the studies we undertook.
I love this concept, it spurns you to immediately create without being precious about what exactly. It is simple.

It heralds back to teachings I received (most likely from the same professor as Claire) from the once head of school and now assoc dean of international art, and expert ceramicist (Dr.) Vaughan Rees (hails from Australian art royalty also, is the nephew of Australian artist Lloyd Rees).
So this is my small tribute to #MakeMarksDaily - would be a very interesting surface print... It has inspired me to get my

shed in order and set up my studio - soon!

Thanks #ClaireAtkins & #AustralianCountryStyle for sharing the inspiration.

Enjoy,

Sarah - #PalatialLiving

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Images: (1) - via #pinterest; (2 - 6) images via Claire Atkins FB page #pinky&maurice contemporary ceramics https://www.facebook.com/PinkyMauriceContemporaryCeramics?fref=photo

For more details please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/makemarksdaily

https://www.facebook.com/PinkyMauriceContemporaryCeramics?fref=photo

Get Organised!

2015-01-13T15:22:00.001+11:00

It's New Year & It's Time to Get Organised!

Back to School, Back to Work.... New rosters, New calendars, New times, and New routines!Sound like your place? It's certainly mine and keeping on top of it can be tricky if you let it get away from you.

So whilst the New Year is till upon us why not take advantage of the time and get de-cluttered, and super organised with some of these helpful decorating tips centred in and around maximising your organistaion for what's ahead this year!

Some of these projects can be done in an evening or across a weekend.

So put on your 'tidy' hat and get cracking! S x

Make the Space Work for You! Whether you have an excess of square footage or are cramped into a too-small space, there are inventive ways to squeeze out useful organization from your home. In a centrally located spot such as a kitchen, a small stretch of wall offers a precious few inches for a family organization spot. Give each person their own slot, or include a message board with important reminders.

Find a version 'here' at Pottery Barn

Increase Visibility; Staying organized depends on knowing what you have and where it is; that way, you won’t purchase duplicates or waste time searching for what you need. Putting items on display, such as the narrower shelves filled with shoes, is a great organizational technique to help achieve this goal.

Maximise Accessibility - Maximise the Closet Space

Helping your family stay organized depends on kids and parents being able to use whatever system you have in place. For kids especially, that means ensuring access to all the daily-use items that they can be in charge of, such as clothes and toys. Revamping closets with multi-height rods and storing seasonal clothes within their reach is a great organizational technique. Clothes they’ll grow into or use in different weather can be stashed in up-high, out-of-reach spaces.

Make It Pretty: It’s so much easier to maintain an organization system if it’s one that you love to look at. Invest in pretty containers , jars, clips and hangers; choose a color scheme; and spend time thinking how your organization can and should be part of your decor.

Organize by Person or Function: Bins, baskets, hooks, and containers all lend themselves to a simple but underused organization technique: labeling. Handwritten or computer-generated, labels can quickly help you and your family sort, store, and find what you need. Try labels in an entryway, on shelves, and in the kitchen.

Mix Storage Types. Organization options are much more limited if you have just one type of storage - all drawers or open shelves, for example. The most clean-looking, hardworking spaces have a little bit of everything: baskets and bins to hide less visually pleasing elements, open shelves for easy access, and higher-up storage for things that aren’t used as frequently.

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Enjoy,

#palatialliving

subtext - images via bhg, pinterest, houzz

5 Closets That Aren't Closets Anymore

2015-01-09T16:48:00.000+11:00

These DIYers found extra living space in their home's smallest spots. This article originally appeared on GoodHousekeeping.com

It's unlikely that you lament about having too much closet space in your home, but have you ever considered what you might gain from repurposing one altogether? We know, scandalous. But for these smart bloggers, transforming a closet was the key to a more organized, productive and beautiful home.

Is one of these creative rooms hiding in your house right now? Just imagine it..

If you can't dedicate a full room to a workspace, follow Christina's lead at #No. 29 Design. Floating shelves, chalkboard paint, and sconces turned her standard closet into a super-functional office.

Tanya at Dans Le Lakehouse didn't want to lose all of her closet's storage space, but craved a way to create a more spacious, friendly office. Now, her colorful filing cabinet and boxes look charming next to a quaint bench where she can consult paperwork, flip through a book, and stow extra supplies under the seat..

Before they're old enough to fill closets with clothes and shoes, kids will love sneaking into a DIY nook for reading and playing, like this one from Balancing Home.

Shoes, coats, and bags have a way of piling up in an entryway, never quite making it to the closet. If that's the case in your home, consider what Anu did at Nalle's House: Ditching the closet door and hanging hooks, baskets, and a bench instead.

If your sewing and crafting projects commandeer the dining room table, move everything to a closet, like Kim at Oh, Sweet Joy did. Worried about losing the storage space? Consider how this strategy might control your DIY clutter better than before.

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Happy New Year!

It's been a little bit since my last post - loads has happened in the meantime. And needless to say very happy to be back and share with you some amazing articles, images, house snooping and of course across the Palatial Living - decorating & style!

Sarah x #palatialliving

article & images via HouseBeautiful.com

Coastal Cool...

2013-09-06T23:31:00.001+10:00

Just a couple of fresh, coastal cool inspired images I wanted,

to share with you from my Palatial Living Pinterest file.

Enjoy,

Deck-Ready for Spring Summer

2013-09-03T23:47:00.000+10:00

Maybe your space is smaller than you'd like, making it a challenge to include gardens and a deck. Perhaps your yard is awkwardly arranged, leaving you little room for formal outdoor areas. Or possibly you have plenty of flowerbeds but little leftover space to place an outdoor table and chairs. Whatever the reason, if you find yourself with big-deck dreams but small-deck constraints, we've got advice. To make the most of small-deck design ideas, rethink your square footage with smart ideas to make the best use of the space you have.

1. Evaluate your needs. Your lifestyle can and should play a huge part in any small-deck design ideas. Before you do anything, think about how you currently use your outdoor space and how you'd like to use it. For example, if you regularly gather family and friends for meals, then you'll want to maximize deck area for seating as well as include a spot for a grill. But if you have a large lawn for playing and relaxing, a deck might serve a whole different purpose in your daily life -- solitary reading of the paper, for example.

2. Maintain the proper scale. Before you begin sorting through small-deck designs, think about scale. Your small deck should feel as though it maintains consistent proportion to both the yard and your home. Too small or too big, and either landscape or the small deck will feel overwhelmed.

3. Establish a connection from house to deck and deck to yard.

Nothing makes a small deck look more awkward than a design that looks out of place with its surroundings. One of the keys in successful small-deck design ideas is to ensure that the style, materials, and shape feel in sync with both your home and your landscape. You'll also want to create a small-deck design that encourages an efficient, natural flow between inside and outside. For example, if doors to your kitchen lead to a side yard, that unexpected spot might be the best place for a small deck.

4. Think in levels and curves.Often times, homeowners let difficult yard situations, such as an awkward slope, discourage them from including a small deck. But decks, even in a minuscule yard or space, can be a great way to conquer those landscape demons. For example, a stepped-down small-deck design can provide multiple levels for gathering, serve for different functions, and help you get rid of grass that never grows or cover a slope that always erodes. A curved small-deck design might help you squeeze a few extra square feet (as well as a secluded nook) out of a tiny landscape.

5. Provide visual relief. On small-deck designs, there's less space to distract the eye, so the details take on heightened significance. Think overhead, on the sides, and underfoot. Try an arbor to create a cosier structure (and provide supports for flowering vines). Distinguished rails offer visual relief, as do rail planters and metal accents. A deck floor in a pattern such as basket weave or one set on a diagonal creates interest.

6. Offer storage.Just because your deck maybe small doesn't mean it shouldn't work hard. Much like shelves, hooks, and drawers in the tiniest linen closet, there are multiple ways to put your small-deck design to work. Think of built-in seating with lids that flip up to hide outdoor cushions and toys. If your small deck is elevated, try hidden storage underneath for seasonal furniture.

7. Include plantings.Whether they're in containers or between the small deck and the rest of your landscape, flowers, trees, and shrubs are key to melding deck with yard. Use small shrubs to disguise footings, posts, and corners; trees to offer shade; and flowers to connect with gardens elsewhere in the yard.

8. Finish it off. Just because your deck may be on the small size doesn't mean you should pay less attention to the final flourishes. Plan for convenient outlets. Choose complementary fabrics and furniture that enhance the design of the small deck and your outdoor living space. Do what you can to create a space that feels comfortable and welcoming.

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So here's 8 Great Deck Ideas to help you get your deck ready for spring summer for some fabulous entertaining & relaxing over the upcoming longer warmer days.

Spend a couple of weekends getting it right & you'll enjoy it for the long run!

Enjoy,

images via pinterest and sub text via daily inspiration bhg.com

Long Time No-See ...

2013-09-03T22:44:00.001+10:00

Hi There! Long time no see!

Wow, a break away from PL has seemed way to long - now I am back and it's like an old friend that doesn't count the time. The best kind. How have you been keeping?

Loving this Hampton's inspired pool house here - with Spring about to go into full steam ahead I thought it's be refreshing to look at this gorgeous pool scape.

Enjoy,

images via pinterest house and garden

Palatial Comfort With Style, Without Pretention.

2013-05-23T22:01:00.001+10:00

I feel like this could be one home here with this cool, serene, fresh palette.

I adore the use of line - flooring, panel walls, and ceilings; and naked metal work lighting.

A 'homely' comfort-ability without pretention or preciousness - whilst holding an air of style makes these spaces work - for contemporary living.

I just love them... selfishly I wanted to share them with you.

Enjoy,

images via pinterest - via house - sonia rinaldi

Want To Be An Interior Stylist?

2013-05-18T21:51:00.004+10:00

I've recently been looking at the Coco Republic Design School for a few master classes & online study and found it also offers online design courses for us class and distance challenged, here's a few details of the online courses I thought I would share with you...

Have you been thinking of studying but can't commit to classes after work or juggling family life.... or maybe you live too far away be it throughout Australia, or a beloved Ex-pat throughout South East Asia, Europe or the States, to make it to Coco’s Sydney studios?

Interior Decoration Essentials 101 -

This inspirational course will give you a thorough understanding of the key concepts and terms used by professional interior decorators, with an insight into colour schemes, soft furnishings, window coverings, lighting and more. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to advise customers on interior design projects, including recommending soft furnishings and design decorations to a project brief. Create mood, colour and materials’ boards with professional panache and graduate with your own portfolio to entice future clients or employers.

Course duration guide is: Approx. 18 weeks, 6-8 hours a week, with a Max 12 months to complete the course.Better yet this course gains TAFE credits: LMFID4003A, LMFID4005A & LMFSF3011B

ENROL HERE>....

Colour for Interiors 401

By the end of this course you'll have the ability to understand how to effectively combine colour by creating colour harmonies. We'll give you the confidence to create an interior colour palette for any project and you'll gain a deep understanding of how colour can alter our perception of an interior space as well as being able to 'read' the interaction of light with your colour choices. And to top it all, you'll leave with a beautiful portfolio piece demonstrating how well you have answered a colour consulting client brief.This course gains TAFE credit: LMFID4001A

ENROL HERE>....

Coco Republic Design School launched its first online courses in January [this year 2013] and it has been going from strength to strength...

This initiative & partnership by Coco Republic Design School and Design Centre Enmore, offers accredited learning online in a truly flexible and incredibly dynamic new learning environment.
Two of the school’s courses are currently available: Interior Decoration Essentials and Colour for Interiors.Interior Decoration Essentials will cost $1,750 (and is $1,000 less than attending the course in person) not bad...

Stay tuned for more updates....or contact the school and get your next step to being an interior colour & design stylist - moving!

Enjoy,

images via coco republic design school

It's Friday x

2013-05-18T00:13:00.001+10:00

Wow! What a week... between meetings, chats, discussions, and many phone messages I am officially exhausted! How about you?

Although my week was interesting to say the least much of it very positive - I am super happy to say 'Happy Friday' and Hello!!! - to the weekend!

Thank you for popping by at Palatial Living this week... over the course of the weekend and the upcoming several months I am about to embark on an exciting new phase & project - with one of Australia's leading aspirational & well established - home wares & furniture retailer not to mention, property styling interior design and design school leaders in the Australian market place - where I trust that many of my ex-pat friends and Palatial Living lovers of these circles will follow - and contact me.

Ohhh the suspense... I am very excited!

Have super Friday evening and great weekend.

I have a few projects to post upon so will see you soon!

Enjoy,

image via pinterest

French Hamptons Inspired Palatial Pin & Memo Board...

2013-05-13T22:44:00.000+10:00

An update from my last memo pin board 'Drab to Fab Gorgeous Office PinBoard', I needed a family memo/ pin board for our kitchen that was conducive to the colour palette of our open kitchen & living room plan.

Our walls are painted in 1/4 tint Dulux Hog Bristle and Doors/ Trims & Skirts are in Taubmans 'Natural White'. So what to do?

I found 2 over sized tea towels from our local discount department & grocery store, in a similar colour to our walls with a little depth - sandy taupe and off white - the fabric - a cotton sateen French Wedgewood Ticking Stripe [this means that there is a large block stripe and smaller stripes to create a pattern - not just a regular stripe like that of a 'regular' ticking stripe'].

I sewed the tea towels together with creating an open 'French' seam.

Lining the front side of dowdy cork pin board with a layer of wadding and spray adhesive, I then used my trusty stapled gun pulling the joined tea towels tautly over the front of the board and securing each side with the staple gun.

Using a tonal & complimentary grosgrain ribbon I wove [under and over] the 'diamond' trellis ribbon. At each cross point you can then add a pearl pin or an upholstery nail head to secure the points to add your memos!

This is a super economic and chic way to update a boring old cork board. I am slightly addicted to stripes but a floral, or small chintz pattern could also work just as well. Using tea towels can be a fun way to fin different prints and patterns, more often they can be less expensive than buying by the metre, and if it's for a kitchen - like mine was - it's a little secret play-on for decorating!

Have fun with it - love to see your memo / pin board updates.

Email your pics to me sarah.verity@verandahhomeliving.biz I would love to post a blog on all your great Palatial Pin Boards!

Enjoy,

images via www.verandahhomeliving.biz , sarah verity

Happy Mother's Day x

2013-05-12T22:50:00.002+10:00

With Love on Mother's Day.

To My Mum, My Mother-In-Law, My Grandmothers, Godmother,

And all Mothers - of all vocations and all children big & small.

We appreciate all that you are & all that you do - not just today, but all days.

Happy Mother's Day to YOU x

image via avant card, opera australia

Weekend Projects: Wonderful Wall Art - Part 1...

2013-05-10T22:26:00.002+10:00

String Artwork

To make this tree-motif string art piece, coat a piece of plywood with black interior latex paint. Sketch a tree lightly in pencil. Begin pounding 1-inch white nails into the plywood along the design at random intervals. Tie nylon cord to the lowest, left-most nail and begin looping the cord around the surrounding nails. Keep the nylon taught at all times. Work your way up the tree and extend out to each branch, ending at the top. Tie a tight knot at the top-most nail. Finish by tying 2-inch pieces of color cording to a few nails at the tips of the branches. Display in an oversize frame, or cut and miter moulding to border the plywood.

Stenciled Wall Art

A blank white wall in this dining room gets a boost of color thanks to a brightly colored stenciled canvas. To get the look, stencil an ikat pattern (or any other pattern you like) onto canvas and stretch it over 1x2-inch boards at the top and bottom.

Printable Wall Art

Recreating this small art piece is as simple with this free download. Simply download, print and frame, or use a photo transfer method to put the print on canvas or a block of wood

Download the owl art for free! via bhg.com

Travel Documents

Keep vacation memories fresh with this easy and inexpensive wall art project. Cut a map to standard printer-paper size (8 1/2x11 inches). Use a word processor to create words, phrases, symbols, or photos that remind you of the special places you've traveled. Print your design on the map. Use spray adhesive to affix the map to a store-bought art canvas. Brush on two coats of decoupage medium, allowing the canvas to dry between applications to seal it. To give a newer map a weathered look, soak it in extra-strong coffee or black tea for an hour, then hang it up to dry.

Watercolor Flowers: This pretty project can be recreated using inexpensive watercolor.paints. Create a light wash by mixing water with one base color. Paint the entire surface of the stretched canvas with the color; let dry. To make flower stems, use a thin brush to paint a single line of light green watercolor paint. The lines need not be perfect; watercolor looks best when it’s applied organically. When the light green is almost dry, highlight it with a line of darker green; let dry. To create the flowers, place a nickel-size puddle of watercolor paint in a light tone onto the canvas at the top of one stem. Hold a straw vertically, straight over the top of the puddle. Blow into the straw to spread the paint into a sunburst pattern and let it dry. Repeat the process with a deeper, more saturated tone of the same color and let it dry again.

Hand-Drawn Wall Art

Even if your art skills are elementary, doodle on! With a marker in hand you can create one-of-a-kind wall art and unexpected updates for basic home decor in a matter of hours. Write a favorite quote, song lyric, or poem on a fabric scrap then frame, and enjoy. Draw a simple picture, then employ a blending technique to make it something truly special.

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So although the weekend might already be nearly over - this is the week that you can prepare you next weekend's projects such as these Wonderful Wall Art projects that I have come across and wanted to share with you. Some have more creativity injected them to others but I do think there's a wall art project that can be done by any one - no matter your 'art' level!
Why not try one of these projects for your living room, bedroom or kids bedroom, or a guest room! Customise your colours and materials - and voila - you have an original décor wall art piece!eave me a comment or email me you project and how it turned out - I would love to hear from you.
Enjoy,

images pinterest, tumblr, bhg, hgtv, traditional home.

Great Palatial Make-It Ideas... For Next to Nothing!

2013-05-09T21:58:00.001+10:00

Chevron Vase

Customize a plain vase by taping off a chevron pattern with painter's tape (it need not be perfect). Spray-paint the exposed area with a lighter shade of the vase colour. Remove the tape when the paint is dry.

Quick & Easy Memo Board

This magnetic memo board is as functional as it is stylish. Simply cut decorative paper to fit inside a baking sheet/tray and glue it to the pan. Add magnets and important papers, notes, or letters, and you’re ready for business. Place it on a desk or hang it in the kitchen to ensure your family always stays on task.

Industrial - Urban Look Pipe Sconce

Create an industrial look with custom sconces made from piping. Run a socket kit through the pipe and pipe fittings, and hard-wire it into the wall. Always remember to consult an electrician when working with wiring and turn off power before doing any work.

The No-Sew Pillow

Stoke your wanderlust with a pillow outfitted with a map. Find an image from an old atlas, or score a map of your favourite city or dream travel destination. Scan your image and use image-editing software to create a mirror image of your map, then print it using an ink-jet printer onto iron-on transfer paper. Iron the image onto light-colour linen fabric, following package directions. Peel away the transfer backing to reveal the image. Use heat-set tape to adhere the linen piece to the pillow.

Stencilled Lampshade

Metallic markings in a trendy ikat pattern add delicate detail to a basic slate-colour lampshade. To get the look, purchase a stencil or create your own from a favourite pattern by tracing your design onto stencil acetate, then cutting it out with a crafts knife (allow a 1/2-inch border around the perimeter). Position your stencil along the bottom edge, and fill in the design with a metallic silver oil-based Sharpie. Continue stencilling around the shape.

Woodland Jewellery Display

Store baubles by hanging them from these mini trees. Cut small branches to similar heights using garden pruners or a small hand saw. Next, glue two 1x6-inch boards together at a right angle and let dry. Drill evenly spaced holes in the base. Dab the bottom inch of the branches with wood glue, then place upright in the holes. Let dry, and decorate with your favourite accessories.

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I wanted to share with you some fabulous Palatial Make-It Ideas, and even better for next to nothing you can make then - I love that. Much of it you may already have around your home, where you can re purpose a few items with into a new form and function!

It's tricky to pick just one favourite out of them all... each have such a great purpose and style... Why not try them all!

Enjoy,

images via bhg, pinterest, tumblr, country living,

traditional home, diy network, style at work, the nest

Happy Friday - A Surprising & Successul Colour Palette

2013-05-03T22:25:00.001+10:00

Wishing you very Happy Friday!

I love his fresh palette of ruby red and azure blue - found in some surprising ways, take a look. Here's to your weekend - full of R&R however long enough and whatever your R&R might include.

Enjoy,

images via pinterest

Pretty Up Your Porch & Super Sunrooms x

2013-05-02T22:18:00.000+10:00

Mixing Materials

Wicker furniture is often a staple of outdoor living, however, these sleek-lined pieces look anything but ordinary. A sisal rug beneath the seating arrangement helps define the area. The two-sided fireplace adds warmth and light when the sun goes down.

Strike a Contrast

Lime green seat cushions and turquoise accessories infuse this screened porch with youthful energy. The mismatched collection of furniture looks cohesive thanks to white paint, which coordinates with the porch's white framing and the house's white trim. A large painting on one wall adds artistic flair to the outdoor living space.

Sunny Style

This sunny screened porch welcomes visitors with an eclectic collection of furniture and accessories. The cosy seat cushion atop the wicker sofa provides the perfect spot for relaxing. A trunk-turned-coffee table offers a surface to place a tray of drinks as well as a hidden storage area for blankets and spare pillows.

Hello, Sunshine

A small skylight above the seating area in this indoor porch welcomes views of the sky. The wood panelled ceiling treatment draws the eye upward and emphasizes the skylight. Screened windows prevent unwanted critters from making their way inside without disrupting any views of the outside

Wicker Wonders

Wicker reigns supreme in this sunroom, where the woven material infuses the space with an inviting and relaxed energy. The sofa and coffee table were painted a deep, emerald green, which adds whimsy to the ensemble of naturally finished pieces. The colorful rug beneath the seating area echoes the woven texture of the furniture

Opening Up

Collapsible screens allow this sun porch to transform from closed and protected to open and airy in no time at all. A trendy colour scheme of chocolate brown, lime green, and rusty orange infuses the space with energy. The lattice pattern featured on the furniture adds another layer of visual interest.

Straight and Narrow

A narrow screened porch off the back of this home provides a summery dining spot for the whole family. The red-painted chairs along the sides of the dining table add a splash of colour to the neutral space. Screens on all of the windows act as barriers that help keep out unwanted critters and crawlers.

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I cannot tell you how much I love a great place that is shared with the inside and the outside. Quintessentially this is the verandah, or for some also known as the porch. And with so many wonderful new products on the market it's never been easier to also make that semi inside/outside space into an enclosed and bug free outdoor sunroom too! Thought I would share with youwhat I found ... here are a number of wonderful spaces such as theses that you too could imitate or take elements from to help you create a special outdoor sunroom space.

My Grandma has always had a verandah of some sort front, back and some type of sun drenched room lined with armchairs, a lounge you could nap on, a few side and coffee tables, and most importantly littered with sift plump cushions and a few throw blankets - just in case you need to cosy up! I know that this verandah - sunroom 'exposure' has greatly influenced me and even why I fell in love with the home we now live in, and how I have been working on our outdoor sunroom - complete with wicker, armchairs, lounge, a coffee table, some plants and lanterns and many cushions!

Will post a pic of my modest favourite spot for a cup of tea, or wine, on weekend afternoons...

Enjoy,

images via bhg.com, tumblr, pinterest - palatial living, country living, traditional home

Wednesday All Day.

2013-05-01T23:06:00.001+10:00

It's Wednesday, All Day.

Is this the middle or your week or just the beginning?

Happy 1st May - May Day - Today.

Enjoy,

image via pinterest

Get Your Curb Appeal On! Part 2.

2013-05-01T22:53:00.000+10:00

In a Day - You Can > Renew planter beds

Get garden beds into shape by pruning growth, pulling weeds, planting flowers, and adding new mulch to restore colour that was taken away by sunlight and harsh weather. If stone or brick borders your bed, consider cleaning and resetting any pieces that are soiled or dislodged. If your border is old or tired-looking, try upgrading to stone or a decorative cast-concrete edging system. Shortly I will post on Garden Bed Edging Ideas to help you achieve a sympathetic and fresh new look for your garden beds.

In a Weekend You Can - Add arbours or fence panels

Arbors, garden gates, and short sections of decorative fence panels will enhance your garden and the value of your home. These amenities can be found in easy-to-build kits or prefab sections you simply connect together. For best results, paint or stain these items with colours already on your house.

In a Weekend You Can - Add outdoor art

Give your yard a little spunk by adding weather-resistant artwork. Choose pieces that complement your home's natural palette and exterior elements. Birdbaths, metal cutouts, sculptures, and wind chimes are good choices for outdoor art. Water sculptures not only function as yard art, but the burbling sounds soothe and make hot days feel cooler. Place fountains on level ground in optimum hearing and sight vantage points. Avoid spots in leaf-dropping range.

In a Weekend You Can - Add shutters or accent trim

Shutters and trim add a welcoming layer of beauty to your home's exterior. Shutters also control light and ventilation, and provide additional security. Exterior shutters can be made of wood, aluminium, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass. New composite materials, such as PVC resins or polyurethane, make trim details durable and low maintenance.

In a Month You Can > Renew paint, siding, and trim

An exterior facelift (new paint, siding, or trim details) automatically transforms the look of a home. Periodic maintenance of that exterior surface is the surest way to keep your house looking its best. Any obvious defects, such as cracked or rotting material, can downgrade the aesthetic and quickly turn away potential homebuyers. Once defects are repaired, look for ways to add personality with colour, trim, or shingles

In a Month You Can - Dress up the driveway

If your driveway is cracked or stained or has vegetation sprouting from it, you can upgrade it without doing a complete redo. First repair the cracks and stains (and kill the weeds), then dress it up by staining the concrete or affixing flagstones. If you need more room to move your car or park, add stone, brick, or pavers to the sides of the drive to widen it with flair.

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Following from my initial post on Palatial Living Get Your Curb Appeal On! Part 1, true to my word - here is the follow up with Part 2 on specific areas and ways you too can get your home ready as a property ready to sell meeting market expectations....

Enjoy,

images & subtext via bhg, pinterest, country living,

tumblr, house beautiful.

Palatial House Love...

2013-04-29T21:23:00.000+10:00

House on Oyster River (Cape Cod). Polhemus Savery Dasilva.

Incredible setting. Aquidneck Properties

Atherton residence, Utah. Markay Johnson Construction.

Scott Currie’s Hamptons home in Elle Décor.

Vineyard farmhouse, VA. Barnes Vanze Architects.

Amongst my increasing addiction to pinning - great to do when waiting for pretty much anything... I recently came across a couple of wonderful Pin boards that I have now started following, see pinterest for 'Alex Corvin' pin board - 'Home', and Suzanne Boy, and wanted to share these stunning Palatial Homes with you that I have added to my 'House Love' Pin board HERE Palatial Living Pinterest - you can also follow my pins via Twitter @PalatialLiving

I'm sure if you too subscribe to the Palatial Living aesthete and ethos that you'll fall in lobe with these houses too!

Enjoy,

images via pinterest - alex corvin, Suzanne boy and elle décor, tumblr.