escapade

Creature comforts

2013-05-15T09:06:00.001-04:00

I'm having one of those days where things feel just a bit off. Where you find yourself craving the familiar, soothing comforts of home that restore you when you're feeling a little run down. This converted monk's retreat in Cambridgeshire, UK suited that feeling perfectly for me today. Calm and neutral, the home is filled with natural light and soft tones. Lots of personal touches create a unique style that defies one particular time period or style category and seem suited uniquely for its inhabitants.

Of course the story has to start with a deep, loung-y sofa and a adorable little furry friend. The ultimate creature comforts for the worst of bad days. An antique wrought iron coffee table contrasts with a shiny chrome arc lamp for a modern eclectic feeling. The mantle is adorned with personal treasures and mementos including a sweet little white rabbit.

This kitchen is layered and so very interesting without feeling cluttered. Soft grey cabinets with brass hardware, open shelving for displays and lots of natural wood touches make it feel like a hybrid modern country kitchen.

I love little vignettes and displays in a kitchen that can turn it from a purely utilitarian space to something quite beautiful.

There's a wonderful feeling of calm in this subdued bedroom. Thick carpets, calm colour tones and little personal touches that tell a story. A Moroccan wedding blanket hangs as a headboard for the otherwise unadorned four poster bed.

This is what it all comes down to for me - my mum always says there's nothing that a long hot bath or a good cappuccino can't cure. If I had a choice, I doubt I'd ever leave this luxuriously scaled tub. I love how open and bright this room feels.

And in the second bathroom, more little touches of pink and pretty pattern punctuate the serene all white room.

{Photos: Matthew Williams for Living Etc}

A modern thatched roof home in the Netherlands

2013-05-14T09:13:00.000-04:00

Growing up in Africa, I have many wonderful memories of sleeping under thatched roofs. We even had a thatched wendy house in our garden that we used to play in almost every day. As anyone who's spent some time in a thatched roof home will tell you, there's a distinctive feeling to it. A mix between cozy and airy - wonderfully warm in winter, and cool and breezy in summer. And a soft, smokey scent. While a thatched roof home generally brings to mind more of a cottage, or even more traditional African or rustic styles, this home by Maxwan Architects in the Netherlands marries a traditional thatched roof with crisp white lines, walls of glass and a thoroughly modern style.

Much of the lower level is devoted to staunch modernism with lots of glass and sleek surfaces.

While a devotion to minimalism is evident in this modern home, they've taken care to restore some of the original details of this 1930s home like the chevron wood floors that add an extra touch of character to the space.

Aside from the thatched roof, my favourite feature of the home is this spectacular spiral staircase wrapped in a lacy meshed form. It's dramatic enough to be a focal point for this area of the home (the often neglected hallways and staircases) but still delicate enough not to be overwhelming.

{Photos: Filip Dujardin for Maxwan Architects, found here}

Pretty pieces: stackable gold flake rings

2013-05-10T08:41:00.003-04:00

I had a bit of an Etsy shopping spree recently. I picked up a pillow in Pierre Frey's Kubus fabric, a beautiful vintage Italian scarf and a hammered brass planter. I've already decided though, what my next purchase will be. I'm quite smitten with these pretty stackable rings from the Etsy shop Daimblond. Each piece is hand made from Elena in Le Mont-Saint-Michel in Base-Normandie in France. This is one of the reasons I really love Etsy as a platform - the ability to enjoy and support the work of talented artists and curators from all around the world that I likely wouldn't have discovered otherwise. I'd love to collect a few of these pretty faceted resin rings in different colours. Each with flecks of yellow and pink gold running through them.

{All images: Daimblond}

Fashion on display: a soft, feminine space

2013-05-09T08:54:00.002-04:00

This soft, light filled space in Manhattan makes great use of it's small floor print with soft colours, and a consistent colour palette throughout. The predominately all white space is very calm and neutral, yet still filled with lots of pretty feminine details that add alot of character and a bit personality to the space.

My favourite piece in the whole space - the framed vintage photo of Twiggy featured behind the sofa.

Krista makes much use of every inch of the small space by keeping little feminine treasures - like her beautiful collection of shoes - out on display. (She had artfully displayed framed shopping bags in her previous apartment.)

The whole space is kept in shades of white, with soft blush pink accents used throughout. The consistency adds a sense of flow through the space and makes it visually feel a bit bigger.

Beautifully designed fashion accessories and pieces - from a Louis Vuitton suitcase to a favourite sparkly cocktail dress are kept out on display as pieces of art and add to the feminine atmosphere.

Just one small wall is adorned with pretty patterned wallpaper, in the same soft shade of pink.

The space boasts a large amount of natural light which gives a feeling of expansiveness. This soft, neutral space seems like a veritable haven set above the busy, bustling streets of Manhattan.

See the homeowner Krista Webster's previous apartment featured here awhile back.

{All photos: Yale Wagner, Styling Ann-Marie Favot for Style at Home}

Neutral territory

2013-05-02T08:36:00.001-04:00

I've been driving myself a little mad lately debating over new throw pillows (yes, I still have not made a decision!) For some reason I find it so challenging to select things for my own home sometimes. I put alot of pressure on myself to get it 'just right' and end up paralyzed and making no decision at all. As much as I've been craving a shot of colour recently, looking back through an older issue of Lonny magazine the other day reminded me that more often than not, the spaces I'm most drawn to are very calm, minimal and in very neutral. Victoria de la Camara's apartment in Fort Greene, Brooklyn feels like a calm private oasis. Outfitted in simple black and white, with rich wood accents and a beautiful collection of art and treasures from her travels around the world. It was a good reminder that neutral spaces don't have to be boring, they can be rich, layered and interesting.

{Photos: 1, 6, 7 - Lianna Tarantin for Sous Style; 2 -5 Patrick Cline for Lonny, March/ April 2012}

Spotted - two fresh designs

2013-04-25T10:53:00.000-04:00

I have a current crush on pretty spotted pieces - these beautiful hand painted pillows by New York based textile designer and artist Rebecca Atwood. I was instantly smitten with them the moment I first laid eyes on them - and judging from their current 'Sold Out' status, I was clearly not alone. The delicate, simple pattern in blue tones (a long time love of mine), the chambray like cotton canvas fabric and the attention to detail like the exposed brass zipper make them really special, one of a kind treasures. I was delighted to get a glimpse into Rebecca's workspace in this beautiful feature on Sacramento Street recently.

Next up is this beautiful paper collection by London based designers Yarra Jones and Sarah Thorne of Paper Stock. This simple graphic pattern is both timeless and completely current. I love the mix of all three patterns in basic black and white in their Animal/ Crayon Dot / Spot Diamond series. A playful modern twist on the classic appeal of leopard and cheetah prints.

{Photos: 1, 2 - Rebecca Atwood; 3, 4 - Paper Stock}

Tamarama House, Sydney, Australia

2013-04-23T08:49:00.001-04:00

I can often have a bit of an emotional reaction to really amazing interiors, and that's exactly how I felt when I discovered Australian interior designer Sarah Davison. It was as if many of the personal dreams and design ideas floating around my head somehow materialized on my computer screen and I almost felt giddy with excitement. Sarah's spaces are modern yet timeless, simple yet layered and interesting and always incorporate a beautiful feeling of balance and harmony. I had an incredibly difficult time deciding which space to feature first (yes, expect to see more of her work featured here in the future - as I am her new biggest fan!) as there were a number of spaces that really spoke to me. Eventually I decided that it wasn't really possible to make the wrong choice in this case, so I just picked the space that felt like the right fit for today. This 1920's 'Spanish Mission' style home near Tamarama Beach in Sydney, Australia has alot of architectural character yet still feels very contemporary and refreshing.

"The fixtures and furnishings feel comfortable and complete, not overdone. There is breathing space in this apartment."

{Photos: Sarah Davison Interior Design}

Coqui Coqui, Tulum, Mexico

2013-04-19T09:23:00.003-04:00

While the weather is finally warming up here at home, but my recent schedule has still left me yearning for a bit of a getaway. A chance to relax, unwind and do absolutely nothing at all. Tulum, Mexico was hands-down one of my most favourite recent vacations. The beach just a few kilometres away from the Tulum ruins is nothing short of breathtaking. Bright blue water, powder soft white sand and still a feeling of being fairly untouched compared with some of the surrounding resort laden areas. Coqui Coqui is a small boutique hotel with just seven suites. Run by a rather glamorous jet set couple, Nicolas Malleville and Francesca Bonato, the location serves as both hotel and perfumery and has become quite the 'It' destination for jet-set hipsters. Their cool minimal vibe combined with some traditional Mexican elements give the space a unique, international vibe. Right now I'm dreaming about sampling their delicious perfumes and lying on a beach watching the waves (cerveza in hand).

For a beautiful tour of the space and surrounding town, visit the Selby's tour of this space here (and prepare to be hit with pangs of 'coolness envy' at this so-hip-it-hurts (and gorgeous!) couple.

{All photos: Coqui Coqui Tulum}

Simple + striking design: The Perimeter tray by Ladies and Gentlemen Studio

2013-04-18T09:43:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you stumble on a product that is quite striking in its simplicity. It's always a hallmark of a really well designed product when fancy embellishments and details aren't necessary, and simple, clean functionality can be expressed in a beautiful way. The Perimeter tray collection from the Seattle based Ladies and Gentlemen Studio does just that. With a very simple aluminium frame surrounding a walnut base with a removable Carrara marble cheeseboard and brass handles. Three favourite materials - brass, walnut and marble combining beautifully in one piece. I'd love to have a whole kitchen designed with this is the inspiration...

In keeping with the same striking and simple aesthetic, the studio's new Aura light collection highlights a basic bulb with a brass ring around it. The effect is very subtle but still has alot of impact.

{All photos: Ladies and Gentlemen Studio}

Bright at home: Bobbie Burgers ii

2013-04-17T08:58:00.002-04:00

The sunshine is streaming through my window this morning, and I'm starting to feel hopeful that in fact, Spring really is around the corner. There's always a burst of exhilaration I feel when this moment arrives and winter is definitively over. To match my high spirits, only a bright and colourful space would seem appropriate today. One in particular has been on my mind lately - the Okanagan summer home of Canadian artist Bobbie Burgers. I've featured parts of this space before, but it really is so stunning I thought it deserved a second go and a chance to include images I'd left out before.

As she would well know from her extensive experience exhibiting in art galleries, an open, all white space is the optimal way to show off Bobbie's colourful, large scale pieces. In her Okanagan summer home, Bobbie has maintained a balance between slick and modern and relaxed cottage. The result is a laid back, contemporary feeling.

While yellow is definitely the dominant accent colour throughout the home, Bobbie's trained artistic eye no doubt ensured that there is enough variety to keep the space dynamic and interesting. The red background in this bold botanical print in the corner ties in perfectly with a pair of red Eames chairs.

Love this long antique table used as a kitchen island - it's actually from a Convent in Quebec in the 1890s.

Bobbie's larger-than-life floral pieces definitely are the focal point of the space. Proof in point to just say yes to art in the kitchen. Works beautifully and really brings the space to life (above and below).

While we're at it - just say yes to brightly coloured appliances! This bright yellow just looks so cheerful and brings a bit of energy to this all white kitchen. I like that Bobbie held back a little and left the fridge all in stainless to balance things out a bit.

Bobbie sets up for dinner al fresco in the garden. I'm a little jealous of this gorgeous vegetable garden, it seems Bobbie's botanical flair extends off the canvas and into the garden as well.

See more of Bobbie Burgers' colourful home here.

{All photos: Kim Christie for Canadian House and Home, May '09}

Inspiration for a Monday morning 15.4.13

2013-04-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

{Photos: 1, 2 }

Wild instincts

2013-04-12T08:18:00.000-04:00

As many cat owners will tell you, no matter how sheltered or confined their environment, it becomes quite evident early on that even domestic cats have wild instincts. That was the subject of a recent Whiskas campaign that enlisted the talents of photographer George Logan and digital retoucher Tony Swinney (yes, these images are photoshopped!). Taken at Shamwari Game Reserve in South Africa (Shamwari is the Shona word for friend, and I learnt the Game Reserve is owned by a Port Elizabeth businessman who had dreamed of opening a wildlife sanctuary since his childhood in Zimbabwe). And here, we see a little domestic tabby cat make friends with all sorts of wild companions on the African savannah. The Shamwari Game Reserve which opened in 1992 is near Port Elizabeth (one of my favourite South African cities) and supported by the Born Free Foundation which campaigns for animal welfare and helped Whiskas with this photo shoot. While I know they aren't 'real', something about these images just warmed my heart.

This post is dedicated to Toby, RIP our little wild cat.

You were a wonderful little friend!

{All photos by George Logan + Tony Swinney for Whiskas}

Etsy finds: Ladylike + tailored dresses

2013-04-12T07:59:00.000-04:00

I just got the best surprise in the mail yesterday - an early birthday present from my sisters. A beautiful custom made dress. Of course I'd had a bit of a hint when I was asked for measurements, but the style was a complete surprise. Made by Cynthia at Heart my Closet on Etsy, this little shop boasts dozens of beautifully tailored styles, made to order. The style I received is at the bottom right, in black. The perfect little black dress with a twist. I can see how a custom fit can definitely be addictive, it really makes all the difference.

Top, l to r: Vincy pencil dress - love the dramatic zip and neckline; New look pencil dress - for a sexy silhouette - very Victoria Beckham.

Bottom, l to r: Cindy custom made pencil dress - love this timless, simple sheath. Would probably nix the belt though; Katy wiggle dress - this is the one I received. Love the interesting neckline - and of course, it fits like a glove.

Thank you A + L for the perfect gift!

{Photos: Heartmycloset}

Delica Kitchen, Toronto

2013-04-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

I have to admit, I often decide whether to go into a shop or restaurant solely based on the their fonts and signage. I spotted the Delica Kitchen while driving down Yonge Street and immediately wanted to turn the car around to go and check it out. It had made enough of an impression on me that I even went and looked it up on Google maps when I got home because I couldn't quite remember the name, but didn't want to forget it. Their clean and simple styling, and the crisp editorial fonts and graphics appealed to me immediately, what was even better was discovering their philosophy on natural, fresh and healthy ingredients and, of course, some incredibly tasty treats. From the styling to the products, I find the whole package to be completely delicious.

{All images: Delica Kitchen}

Iphone case study

2013-04-10T16:00:00.001-04:00

I am currently in the market for a new iPhone case. I was quite disappointed with the last one I had which was lovely in matte white with a rose gold band, but started falling apart within a few weeks. Finally last week, I reached into my pocket to get my phone and emerged with my phone and only half a case :(. I initially started looking into iPhone cases on Etsy and was completely blown away by the variety - every thing from the latest graphic design trends to real fancy pants styles encrusted in gems. Of course, no sooner had I chosen one than another brilliant option popped up. Here are a few of my current favourites.

Top, l to r - Love the bright facets - Coral Mix Colour // Type B by evoncase;

Keep coming back to this classic Tortoise shell cas e. (I know, not exactly the most original of choices, but I still love it!)

Love the bright, hand painted effect of this design by Jen Ramos of Made by Girl

Middle, - I was excited to discover these new iPhone covers by Rifle Paper Co. How pretty would the floral print be for Spring?

Bottom, - I'd seen these around the web and then again during my Etsy hunt. I love these simple, graphic prints by designer Julia Kostreva. I might just have to pick one of these so that I can get one of her corresponding notebooks.

I have also been contemplating one of the Boostcases with an added card carrier to keep everything together, and because a dead cell phone battery is one of my pet peeves. Do any of you have a cell phone case you really love and would recommend?

A well travelled collection: At home with Danish designer Naja Munthe

2013-04-09T09:04:00.000-04:00

I always love seeing how fashion designers' distinctive looks also translate into their homes. The home of Danish fashion designer Naja Munthe of the fashion brand Munthe plus Simonsen and author of the book Fashionable Living, perfectly translates her global modern aesthetic. The clean lines and simple black and white palette is the perfect backdrop for her extensive collection of treasures from travels across the globe. Traditional ethnic textiles, natural wood sculptures, woven baskets and organic pieces juxtapose with more formal embellished architecture in all white and sleek black pieces. I love how the look still appears clean, well edited and pulled together, not at all cluttered or too overwhelming. For all those of us global travellers who struggle with how to display all the treasures from your travels without looking like a curio shop - this is how you do it!

Naja also translates this same distinctive look to her summer house in northern Sealand (Denmark).

Love this laid back reading loft!

{Photos: Morten Koldby for Fashionable Living by Naja Munthe via HomeLifeLoves}

Inspiration for a Monday morning

2013-04-08T09:14:00.001-04:00

Sometimes it's really easy to get discouraged with your own progress. In this mad modern world of instant gratification it's easy to forget that the biggest and most fulfilling of successes are more often the result of a long and steady climb rather than a meteoric burst. In our rush to reach this elusive destination of 'success' or 'accomplishment', it's easy to get frustrated and impatient with yourself in the process and forget to just enjoy the process of learning and being a beginning. Being an instant expert is not realistic, or even really very desirable. Give yourself a break! Enjoy being a beginner. It's in being able to enjoy this process that it can take you farther than you'd even imagined.

{Images: 1- Marie Claire Maison; 2 - Behappy}

(Formerly) Listed: A Bungalow in Malibu

2013-04-04T09:25:00.000-04:00

As I don't own a property of my own, I have to get my real estate fix through patrolling the listings and living vicariously through other people's purchases. I was struck with a pang of real estate envy when I came across the recent purchase of film producer Judd Apatow and his wife, actress Leslie Mann. This charming 1930's bungalow in Malibu, California is relaxed and unstuffy (like its new owners) and boasts incredible ocean views. I feel that there are some very fun beach parties to come on that patio...

Love the 'Secret Garden'-esque entrance tucked in behind vine covered walls.

A small unassuming, and private courtyard.

The all-white floors, walls and ceilings in the home makes it feel delightfully light, open and expansive, even in a smaller space.

There's a laid back vibe in the space with alot of natural elements in the space -woven raffia rugs, rattan and solid wood furniture and a live edge mantle above the fireplace.

This is where I think I'd be spending an inordinate amount of time - a long, comfy banquet with an amazing view. Perfect for opening the doors and entertaining a large group both indoors and out.

Most of the main rooms of the home open right out to the patio, with a spectacular ocean view.

And this is what it's all about - open skies and ocean views... Can't get much closer than this!

{All photos: Elizabeth Halstead}

The Birthstones by Elisa Werbler

2013-04-03T11:11:00.002-04:00

We've finally arrived at April! Best month of all in my extremely biased opinion. In addition to my own, I'll be celebrating the birthdays of many of my most favourite people this month, so birthdays are very much on my mind. I was drawn right away to this bright series of prints, The Birthstones by New York City based designer Elisa Werbler. Each depicting a colourful, faceted depiction of each month's emblematic stone. I do have a small confession, while I've always felt we April babies win hands down on our birthstone - diamonds! - I'm not sure it's my favourite of the prints, and am finding myself more drawn to some of the brighter colours. How pretty is that Tanzanite (one of my favourite real life gemstones too!) in shades of violet and indigo? Or the technicoloured Opal?

The complete calendar set

Diamond

Opal

Tanzanite

Alexandrite

A big Happy Birthday to all the other April babies out there!

And a special shout out to my littlest sister who's celebrating today :)

{All photos: The Birthstones by Elisa Werbler}

An artful mix

2013-04-02T08:52:00.002-04:00

There's an exuberant feeling to this Toronto family's home designed by Alison Milne Design. With a crisp white canvas, the home is artfully filled with interesting art and furniture pieces that each have alot of personality all on their own. The stronger pieces are balanced out well with light neutrals and metallic tones, but even the 'basics' in this space are far from boring. There's a strong attention to detail that hints at Alison Milne Design's unique niche, having both a design studio and an art gallery. Altogether, this fun and fresh space is a perfect fit for a modern, urban family.

Love the placement of the tv just off to the side, so it's not the focal point of the entire room.

{All photos: Alison Milne Design}

Listed: A black + white apartment in Odenplan, Stockholm

2013-03-26T09:01:00.000-04:00

I've been passionate about houses about as long as I can remember, when not patrolling my local neighbourhoods to study the homes in person, one of my favourite hobbies is perusing real estate pages. Foreign ones are often my most favourite. While my lately my focus has been on a more tropical locale, I thought I'd check in with one of my favourite realtors - Fantastic Frank in Stockholm, Sweden. Not only does he sell the most beautiful apartments, but the styling and photography of his listings make you forget momentarily that you are actually looking at a real estate listing and not a interior magazine spread.

This Stockholm apartment is quite minimal and makes great use of limited floor space, but is still filled with that old world charm that is often so lacking in modern apartments and condos, especially here in North America.

{All photos: Fantastic Frank}

Brazilian lounging

2013-03-21T12:22:00.000-04:00

This open and airy space in Baleia, Sao Sebastiao in Brazil is where I want to be at the moment. Beautifully designed by the architectural firm Studio Arthur Casas, the focus is entirely on a feeling of openness and a lack of barriers between the indoors and the surrounding environment. A space like this enables a lifestyle that effortlessly blends living indoors and out. This focus in the design was especially important given the location of this home, right between a large rain forest reserve that covers the mountains of Serra do Mar and the almost untouched beach of Baleia.

{Photos: Studio Arthur Casas}

Bright, happy colours

2013-03-20T08:24:00.003-04:00

I've hit the wall and am ready to tap out on winter. This season has just seemed to drag on for far too long! This morning I'm seeking remedy, and a bit of a cheer up, in bright saturated colours that can't help but cheer you up just to look at them. I love the vibrant shades of these paintings by Atlanta based artist Britt Bass the bold colours and brushstrokes have a carefree feeling about them that just feels like Spring/ Summer. Hopefully I'll soon be retiring the heavy coats and thick scarves and replacing them with breezy soft linens. Jonathan Adler's new collection of personal accessories includes scarves in his signature 'Happy Chic' style, perfect for taking that very feeling out on the streets.

Rock Party

Orange Acid Palm Pareo

Rose Rock I

Nixon Stripe Oblong Scarf

Abstract III

Fuchsia Crabby Pareo

{All artwork by Britt Bass, available on Etsy; All scarves from Jonathan Adler}

A striking yet soft industrial loft space

2013-03-19T09:14:00.000-04:00

Lately, I have been trying to tame the massive collection of magazines I've managed to accumulate over the past few years, since my move to Toronto. Of course, I couldn't bear to part with many of my treasured volumes without scanning through each one, grabbing a few last tear sheets. During this process, I was happy to be reunited with a beautiful space I hadn't seen in a little while. This striking yet soft loft space was designed by Toronto interior design firm Croma Design. The focal point of the space is the taupe travertine tine backsplash in the kitchen of this open concept loft, which is complimented beautifully by the leaning art print Adrienne Veninger's Tree Circle.

There is a strong focus on art throughout the space. Above the kitchen table, an airy iron sculpture - Linienshieff by Knopp Ferro hangs in place of a chandelier.

A gallery wall of warm sepia toned art and lots of honey toned wood accents throughout the space, contrast the loft's cool concrete and stone tones.

A bank of Ikea cabinets forms a striking (and inexpensive) alternative to built-in storage and fit perfectly with the feeling of an industrial loft space.

{Photos: Mark Burstyn for Style at Home, Interior Design by Croma Design}

Working inspiration for a Monday morning...

2013-03-18T09:16:00.000-04:00

Taken from Holly Becker's interview 'Never give up on your dreams' on Kelly Hoppen's blog - a very inspiring and worthwhile read.

Photo: Milk magazine via Desire to Inspire