once was loved

Miami Fever...

2010-11-24T10:12:00.008+11:00

More and more people I have spoken to have raved about Miami. The chic hotels, the amazing weather and the fantastic night life! And this hotel I stumbled upon just makes me want to go more- in fact the decor is so inspiring I could quite happily live there!

The Tides South Beach is the tallest and most elegant Art Deco hotel to grace the Ocean Drive. It originally opened in 1936 and was remodel and re-opened in 1997. Keeping the original facard and features it is been reborn in to a sophisticated, sedate and sumptuous hotel that has a contemporary atmosphere.

The entrance...

The foyer... I love the lights and those wooden chairs! The use of raw wood is throughout the hotel and is amazing. The mix between the old art deco furniture which has been beautifully refurbished in muted leather, the raw woods and brass tables is gorgeous...

One of the suites... all I can say is bliss! Imagine walking into this on your first day of holiday's!

How gorgeous is the leaf chair?

Here is a dining room on one of the larger suites...

Bedroom bliss! I am seriously thinking this could be my bedroom... love the wall feature and the matching mirrors beside the bed.

Another small suite love the small details like the two metal chairs and the repetition of the zebra rugs... so elegant!

Time for dinner?

Art Deco cocktail lounge... this makes me think of decadent days of dry martini's and elegant women dressed in proper stockings and French chignons.

Relaxing poolside for a cocktail- Love those two big chairs and the brass tables!

Private area poolside- that wall is amazing in bamboo and the feature mirror.

I love the muted peaches that are carried through out... even in the towels!

So anyone for a dry martini and a dip? xox

I heart Orson and Blake!

2010-11-16T09:48:00.005+11:00

Hi all, I have finally finished this years round of photoshoots and tv advertorials that become my life for three or so months around this time of the year and can finally spend some more time enjoying what I love- reading all those amazing blogs and getting back in touch with you all. It has been a whirlwind of a time and I am looking forward to relaxing with close friends in early dec at my island getaway dream house which you can read about here. I am going swim wear shopping for some of those great nautical's I featured here and I am going to get a load of books and never leave the beach! My idea of BLISS!

Anyway over the last couple of months I have become a massive online bargain shopper- which is ironic really as I struggle really hard when I walk into a shop with sales! I never can find anything I want at half price and always fall in love with the most expensive item on the shelf and walk away having spent more then I wanted, never less. Anyway recently I have signed myself up to all those daily emails with specials on meals, clothes and homewares and spend about half an hour every morning running through it and spending way too much money saving myself a little bit. :)

What I did love is finding a Sale on Orson and Blake homewares. I am so in love with their stuff now... I love the rustic fabrics, the gorgeous prints and muted colours. Divine! I splurged a little and am updating my home for summer when they arrive. So excited!

My new loves....

Tea Towels: Linen Elephant & Zebra in Chocolate

Animal Print Cushions

Going tribal with:

Cushion Kuba Shells

Cushion Jute Zig Zag Knot

I love Owls!

Oh and I love this Bone Inlay 4 Drawer Chest but at 4,500 unfortunately it wasn't in my sale.. :(

Anyway I hope is well with everyone? I know a couple of you will be close to having new little bundles of joy soon- so hope all is ok and your enjoying your 'nesting' phase? :) I am going to enjoy reading a few of my favorite blogs today and catching up on all the news! Cam xox

Spring time projects and a little help needed!

2010-10-25T11:10:00.008+11:00

Hi all, and I seem to be doing this a lot lately, so sorry I have been so slack. Last week I was styling a shoot for three days and getting myself ready for it so was pretty busy.

So this week I am hoping to catch up on some of my favorite blogs and spend some serious time on eBay searching out a few pieces for my home (with spring here I am in the mood for a new look). I have already dragged my brother out in the middle of the night to go and procure a wooden ladder off someones council clean up pile! He now wont let it into the house till I properly clean it and fix it up a bit. :) I am so excited though as going to turn it into a book shelf to put beside the one I use for my throws and some picture frames.

The things I am looking for on eBay are:

Chest of draws- wanting something a bit shabby and loving this idea of a faded union jack! I need it to be a bit of a statement piece as it will under a big circle mirror I own and the first thing you see when you walk in.

I am also looking for a long bench table, 2 bench seats and chairs for my dining room. At the moment I have a small round one which I love but only seats 4 and worked well in my small apartment but doesn't suite this space at all. I need something I can use for entertaining.I love this bench table from Driftwood Interiors. I love the zinc top... so maybe looking for a table that I can cover with zinc. I want bench seats as then I can tuck them under and push against the wall normally and bring out when need be.

And finally I need help! I have really bad 70's tiles in the living room and dining room- seriously orange and brown tiles! They have to go! I want something inexpensive as I am renting but something that will cover the space. I love sisal as it is durable and would be light and give it a nice beach feel or even white washed floorboards that click together. Does ANYONE know a cheap solution or where I can source cheaply? My living room is about 5m x 6m, which is quite large! Currently I have down this massive rug (2x3m) from ikea which works well but no where near covers it!

So any help would be great- does anyone know what would work well? Cam xox

Country Wedding!

2010-10-12T11:30:00.009+11:00

I am so sorry I have been so slack lately- work has been so busy and unfortunately will be for another month or so. But I have already booked a holiday- YAY! I am off to the amazing Bedarra Island property that I featured here. So excited.

I also got some great news last week that one of my best friends is getting married! So exciting for her and Mr F. They are having a spring wedding in the country (how gorgeous!) and I thought I would give her a little inspiration for cute country weddings.

I love this outdoor setting- great for after the ceremony gathering and before dinner.

And I think adding a touch of personality like these great country boots for the bridesmaids is such a cute idea!

I love this glam barn wedding- so romantic! Those chandeliers are too die for! I also love the keys to find your tables- very cute!

I also love this idea for after the wedding where guests can sit around a fire and enjoy each others company in the country landscape!

This is a gorgeous green barn wedding- A tree makes a lovely back drop for the ceremony whilst all the green in the barn really ties the outdoors to the reception. That candelabra is amazing too- I can image gum leaves all around candles- perfect way to give it a local feel!

I think you could use a lot of really cool rusted materials in a country wedding- I love this old 7 for table numbers.

This is a gorgeous outdoor wedding- Fingers crossed the weather is good- but I love the oranges and yellows and the details in the tables. A good table is made from lots of detail and lots of variation in heights, textures and objects. I love these tables!

So many ideas! All I know is Miss Gill will make a beautiful bride and I wish her every happiness! Cam xox

Images Care of Green Wedding Shoes.

Happy weekend...

2010-09-10T17:09:00.002+10:00

Have a relaxing one...

Cam xox

Moped madness....

2010-09-10T09:45:00.004+10:00

Ok so over the weekend as we where visiting my parents for Father's Day, my brother had a small accident with the Car and wrote it off! Luckily everyone is well and I had no particular love for my car, so I am not holding any grudge.

However I am now on the painful and traumatic hunt for a new car. My major hitch is budget-(I am really trying to keep it low as I am saving for a house) and I really don't like new cars.

As you all know I am a vintage girl at heart and my first love was a 1953 Morris Minor fully restored and sprayed in 1979 Porsche White (which was an off cream) and had been reupholsted lovingly by my parents in burgundy and cream. I just simply loved that car! Dad and Mum spent a year doing it up for me and it drove like a dream and was so cute!

So now my what car to get and should I just go- I should get what I really want an old car though it is not as reliable but I will love it and willingly spend money on it. Or get a newer but not new model that wont last as long but can be an interim car or another thing I wanted to do for ages is buy a moped- which I could get a brand new one!

So can you see me on a Vespa? I love Vespa's as they still have that classic design and good looks- great marriage between vintage chic and practicality! And the good thing is if I buy it now- I get a free coffee machine! I am thinking maybe white? Or they have a cool orange one! You all know how big an orange fan I have become!

I do need to get my learners- but figure I should be able to do that over one weekend. Am i insane?! Is this just moped madness!?! Help any advice is useful! Camxox

Good design...

2010-09-09T10:14:00.004+10:00

I am massive traveler- I love going overseas and as such spend a lot of time in airports. I just think these are a great solution- good design, perfect for security, completely solves the trying to find a chair/somewhere to leave the bag/having to haul luggage through the airport whilst looking through duty free or have a bite on long waits! dilemma.

Introducing Sleepbox. Developed by Arch Group an architecture and design firm in Russia the sleep box is designed to fitted in railway stations, airports, even in tropical countries for city's with a high level of unavailable accommodation to go in streets. It is budget one night accommodation that is completely secure and can sleep up to two people. The space includes bed, linen, ventilation system, alarm. LCD TV, WiFi , space for your laptop and re chargeable phone. Under your bed and floor there is a cupboard for your luggage. Sounds exactly like home right? :)

Deluxe one bedroom model...

The hostel edition which sleeps two... but no TV! :)

I love good innovative design and I think these are sleek and compact and really fill a need in the market! Sleepbox- maybe coming to an airport near you!

Weekend Retreat...

2010-09-09T09:38:00.002+10:00

I could so just hole myself up here for a month or so! If I disappear for a while don't worry, I will be happy!

Swimwear season...

2010-09-08T15:44:00.004+10:00

My aim over the next four weeks is to be able to wear this....

And look HOT! :)

I am loving the nautical this year by Jets...

And how chic are these Black and White's that harp back to the elegant days of Hollywood! Loving the high wasted pants... Gorgeous!

On a side note the average Aussie girl buys 3 swimwear pieces a year- where every where in the world averages 1! Time to get into making Aussie Swimmers hey girls? :)

Tropical Fever....

2010-09-07T09:23:00.011+10:00

Yay- 'Spring' into Summer! With Australia starting to glow with Spring light and warmer days... so time to lighten up the house- change the cushions and throws and bring spring into the home!

Loving bold prints to bring the outdoors in and to brighten up the home... Bold forest prints are fantastic, or if your game go for tropical printed cushions.

Loving the cushions in this nook...

This is from one of my favourite homes- love the rug and bold print couch!

I love these bird cushions...

A fantastic mix of tropical cushions really make this nook look bright and fresh... great place to have a cocktail with friends...

Great way to pick up the colours in your cushions by adding fresh flowers and love that green silk poof!

Occasional chairs are perfect for bold prints without being over whelming!

Add a throw and some cushions to a crisp white bedspread for a tropical feel...

I love these rattan chairs in tropical colours... perfect for a bright tropical feel dining space...

And this idea of painting a tallboy or cheap dresser in green against a white wall in a living room this would look amazing!

Head to Etsy as there are heaps of cushions that you can play with for spring!

This bold printed cushion is great to bring a fresh look to your neutral sofa or chair. kyoozi

I love Owls and these were too cute not to show you! sukanart

I love these geometric cushions in green... this pattern is so popular at the moment! turquoise tumbleweed

Add with a bold print and perfect match!

And love this zebra cushion, the fabric texture is gorgeous! nenavon

Spring Cocktail...

2010-09-02T10:13:00.005+10:00

Since spring has sprung- so to speak- it is time to start bringing out the Cocktails!

I am a big fan of an aperitif... My parents when I was growing up used to always have Pimms by the pool or Caprioskas with nibbles before dinner. I loved this time- it was generally a great refreshing way to wet the appetite after a long day and cool down in the balmy Sydney Summer heat!

We generally went through fazes- so Pimms one summer, Dark 'n Stormy's the next depending how we felt.

This Spring / Summer I am liking the Apple Martini! I love a really well made martini- and have been on the hunt for a great recipe for apple martini's... they need to use proper stewed apples, a really good vodka, a hint of cinnamon and should take a couple of days to prepare! No short cuts! (As you can see I take my drinking seriously :) )

Stew 8 granny smith apples cored and skinned with a cinnamon stick, 750ml cloudy apple juice and a table spoon of sugar. Leave to simmer low and slow till the apples dissolve.

Take off stove and leave to cool.

Strain liquid through a sieve with muslin.

Add 1 ltr bottle of 42 below honey.

Leave in fridge for at least a day is not longer!

To serve:

Chill a martini glass and rim with a mix of sugar and cinnamon.

Strain in liquid.

Slice a piece of granny smith apple and float on top.

Enjoy!!!

My island home...

2010-09-01T11:49:00.005+10:00

Spring has sprung! In Australia today is the first day of the really long awaited spring- and I am planning to make the most of it. As you might have gathered it is pretty flat chat at work this last month- so I am planning on getting away!

I just love this villa on Bedarra Island (fort hose of you not local to Aus, it is just off the coast in Far North Queensland) which you can take for a week or longer through Contemporary Beach Houses and Villas. It has been remodeled by renowned interior architect Ian Moore and has been featured in Wallpaper, Vogue Living and Belle, not to mention countless books on Luxury Beach Houses and Villas.

The original house was owned by renowned artist Noel Wood in the early 20th Century and when Ian Moore remodeled he kept some of the original features of the house. It features two queen sized beds and the original studio. It is absolute indulgence!

Your own private beach... bliss!

The 'comfortably modernist' interiors to quote Contemporary Hotels themselves...

Outdoor bathing facilities... pour me one now!

Outdoor entertaining- great for cocktails at sunset over looking 'your' beach!

The 'studio'- idyllic isn't it?

I am so going to look into going- hoping not too booked out! If your looking for a week getaway so check out Contemporary Beach Houses and Villas!

Library Love...

2010-08-31T10:09:00.006+10:00

I love books. As you will have already worked out I am an avid reader and just as equally an avid collector of books... I love their covers, they way they slightly bend when read thoroughly... I love going into a bookshop and spending 20-30 mins looking at covers, reading their short teasers and picking a new favourite off the shelf. So that is why I think one of the most important things in a house is the way you display your love of books. From tables, to stairs, to shelves, to ladders... there is an art form in arranging your books...

From a designers pallet of colour...

To an amazing floor to ceiling display!

I love it as a backdrop to your dining space...

The Shabby Chic readers nook...

I love the idea of framing a doorway with books!

Beach chic... the use of the full space is fantastic and books go so well with that deer head!

From the casual...

To the designer... Loving that black egg chair!

How amazing would it be to be able to have the space to surround yourself with books! xox

Back to basics...

2010-08-30T09:43:00.007+10:00

Hi all, I am so sorry I was absent last week- but off styling for the week and the weekend I just slept as I was exhausted!

The other day my brother and I were watching a cheesy TV show and saw an amazing loft. It reminded me of how much I love raw materials in design... It has always been a dream to own a loft apartment and really strip it back to beams, brick and light, then go to town on fantastic industrial design with lights, chairs and materials.

Here are some fantastic examples of Loft design and maximising on space,light and the raw materials.

I love this loft that features in Gossip Girl as the Humphrey's Brooklyn loft. Fantastic!

Anyway I hope you have all been well? I am looking forward to spending time at night catching up on the passed week with my favourite blogs! Cam xox

Summer here I come...

2010-08-19T16:10:00.004+10:00

I am off tomorrow to prop for a shoot next week- and normally I get so excited about home ware shopping but I just know I am going to be running around and not really getting to appreciate spending money on fun home wares!

Anyway today was so beautifully warm! It so felt like summer... I am looking at going and getting some great summer clothes and first stop is Camilla Frank, who is the queen of Summer wear!

I am loving....

And this is just stunning!

now I just need an occasion to wear it! :) Anyway I am off to dinner with the girls at a local Thai. YAY! Cam xox

Sheer Shabby Chic Bliss...

2010-08-18T14:21:00.003+10:00

How heavenly...

And now back to reality and more work! Hope you're all well... xox

Ikea inspired...

2010-08-17T11:41:00.006+10:00

Sorry guys I have been so lax- I am right in thick of it at work and literally dropping into bed each night when I get home!

Today is just a quick note as well as I need to get moving on with more work- wo is me at the moment! :)

I did however go to Ikea on the weekend and found some amazing buys. They have just launched their new Catalogue so great time to go in if you haven't in a while and buy for spring!

My new cushion covers! Love it $14! They are 100% Cotton and are a beautiful textured rough weave and fit perfectly over my existing feather cushions.

I have matched in with this cutie. It came with a filling and was only $14.99. Also 100% cotton. I love the contrasting orange back- slowly getting there to having more orange in my life!

My new diner setting. $29.99 got me 6 side plates, 6 large bowls (just right for stews and pasta) and 6 small bowls. Then I bought for $3.49ea 6 dinner plates. So cheap! Love the heavy weight and the rough mat surface texture- you can tell I am tactile person!

Going back for-

This awesome print- orange and black of course! :) $14.99 plus frame at $69.95...

Anyway I hope you have all been well- I am looking forward to sitting down this weekend and having a good old session of blogging, coffee and cup cakes and see what you have all been up to!

Oh I forgot to mention I did have my Christmas in July party on the weekend which was huge success! A friend of mine took pics, so once I get them I will post for you!

Camxxx

Happy Weekend...

2010-08-06T16:06:00.003+10:00

Happy weekend all! I have a house warming tonight, a hair cut tomorrow - which excites me as been way too long- plus I am going with my best friend for girly champagne and hair date before meeting the boys at the pub for a friends 30th and footy. Then on Sunday I am walking 14km's in the City2Surf (eek this was before I knew I had a 30th the night before! What am I thinking?!) Plus soaking the fruit for the Christmas pudding and maybe a first date if I can fit it in! I hope you all have a good one filled with friends and laughter, and maybe in my case tears as I try to walk up heart break hill hung over! :) Love to all and have a lovely weekend!

Etsy game...

2010-08-06T14:16:00.003+10:00

Ok I was just playing with Etsy shop by colour and this is quite a fun game.

1. Got to: Etsy Shop by Colour
2. Swirl your mouse around the colour pallet close your eyes and where you stop is what you post!

Ok you can tell it is friday and I am slightly bored! :)

Here is mine... I landed on lime! I have left them in order which they came up.

Roller Derby Girl Case

Dragonfly Behavior Chart

Recycled Aluminum/Silver Lime Large Square Bubble Pendant

Personalized Birthday Invitations

Vintage inspried whimsical tablescapes....

2010-08-05T13:15:00.007+10:00

I know, I know it's been a while since I posted about my love of vintage but today I was going through my style files and came across a few of these amazing tablescapes and thought I had to share... I love vintage tablescapes, they incorporate everything I love about vintage; delicacy, details, layers, textures & colour.

Images Brandon Kidd,The Bridal Closet, 100 Layer Cake, Smock Paper, Handful of Treasures & Carter & Cook Event Co.

Lock it in Eddy... we have a menu!

2010-08-04T09:01:00.007+10:00

Last night I was so excited as my brother and I locked in the menu for my Christmas in July that is now Mid-August dinner party! :)

We are going to start with mulled wine and nibbles. I live in Sydney and it is normally hot outside on the day of Christmas mulled wine isn't that big in Australia for Christmas, so thought this was a perfect opportunity to bring it out.

I am still playing with idea for first course mainly because the second and dessert are heavy and I don't want them rolling out of the house (unless of course it is because they are tipsy!) So what do you think, I am thinking figs and prosciutto, any other idea's? I want something light and clean on the pallet.

However my excitement is the main! So the first idea was traditional turkey, however I have now invited 9 people- so a turkey that size wont fit in my oven or bbq! That was a slight dilemma, however last night I was looking through recipes and saw a chicken with cider and told my brother who got very excited by the idea of me cooking with cider. I am not a massive fan of chicken because I think it is dull. So I went online to find a pork recipe with cider (since apples and pork are MADE for each other!)... And drum roll please... we found this!

Rolled roast pork loin with apple and chestnuts... Gourmet Traveller your are my God!

Classic dish but should be really tasty and fits my brothers brief for cooking with cider! I am also going to try a cider cream sauce to drizzle over the top... I will just do a simple roasted whole baby carrots, patotoe and pumkin drizzeled in a lemon, rosemary and garlic infused oil, and some fresh beans for a side.

For dessert I am doing a traditional Christmas pudding with a rum cream sauce (mum does the best sauce so using our family recipe).

I am now so excited!

Coastal Chic...

2010-08-03T11:45:00.011+10:00

I am so willing for it to be spring already... though I think I could be quite happy come summer or winter to be living in these spaces with those views!

Chandelier & table- bliss!

LOVE that sailing boat chandelier!

Traditional white and blue...

All I can say Fridge + Stove= WOW!

Now for some with colour- how good do those Chinese lanterns look? I have never been a big fan- but here they work perfectly!

Sea greens go so well- I love how the highlights are picked up in the surrounds...

A touch of lime- you know this doorway is only going to lead to good places!

Great table decor for coastal living...

And this will be the next house I buy... you're more then welcome to visit!

Images care of: Coastal Living

Spring has sprung!

2010-08-02T10:53:00.002+10:00

Wow doesn't it feel like over the weekend it has turned from miserable winter to starting to head into spring? We didn't even have the heater on on Saturday night! The downside was I didn't even get out to enjoy the sunshine as I had a miserable cold and decided like a good little girl I would spend the weekend in doors getting better so I wouldn't feel like crap for work this week. I found I was so bored! I don't think I have had a whole two days in in ages and it is so boring! In fact I was so bored I completely head to tail cleaned the house- which is a good thing because my Christmas in July party is coming up (yes I know it is no longer July but I struggled to book everyone in earlier then mid-August!).

Anyway in honour of what I feel is getting closer to spring, here is what I am looking forward to being able to wear in spring! (especially since I have joined works biggest looser competition today to get rid of those winter kg's and get ready for swimwear season!)

Mango dress in Scarlet Collection, Etsy 70's Olive Green Boots, my vintage Dior's, Laliv Jewelry and More necklace & Mimco Bergman Satchel

Take a cool long sip of Hotel Azucar...

2010-07-30T13:13:00.012+10:00

How could you not want to visit a place where the national drink is Tequila, the sun is always shining, the people are always singing and food is fresh and spicy? And to top it off you're not only allowed but expected to Nap during the day!

Hotel Azucar off the coast of Mexico is a fantastic mix of local vibrancy and chic luxury... and I so want to be there! With only 20 bungalows and miles of beach you feel like you're in a private sanctuary and with a restaurant that specialises in fresh seafood and wild freshwater prawns you feel like you're in heaven!

A padro ready to greet you on arrival... :)

Restaurant... fantastic mix of local colour and design.

The beautiful pool that over looks the pristine beach...

I love these change rooms for the pool!

Your own private bungalow... Fantastic mix of stark white rendered walls, stone walls and straw roofs...

Cool calming interiors... a great way to escape the heat for your siesta.

Your private balcony and hammock- the perfect place to sit a sip those beers...

Love this outdoor shower! That bucket is fantastic!

If you feel over worked from your long walks and lazing by the pool- they have a spa where you can meditate, do yoga or have one of their amazing treatments...

Their outdoor library for you to enjoy during your stay or have a few beers at!

Or enjoy the games that they supply... and who can go past a parrot when you're in Mexico?! :)

Enjoy your weekends my lovelies... this is where I will be- if only in my mind! xox

Going to the chapel....

2010-07-29T09:20:00.010+10:00

Ok I should probably say right out there... I am single and not even close to getting married, so this is probably going to look a little obsessive... but lately I have been becoming more and more engrossed in wedding blogs and by the amazing styling and detail that go into weddings these days... not only that but the fantastic different takes everyone has on their day. Anyway, today I thought I would show some amazing fashions that I am loving for the bride, most of which are not the big puffy white dress!

LOVING....

Ok just a note I am pale so not good in white, love this dress by Gucci- love the vintage styling and the colour is amazing!

These two I think are beautiful and simple- great for a summer wedding and just my style of the 'white dress' without being a marang!

Very Audry and looks great with the yellow! I also love that sign since it was a town hall wedding...

I love this dress but mainly because it reminds me of my best friend's dress from Tea Rose which was stunning!

My best friend as a stunning bride...

Oh well it might be a bit longer before I can see myself in one of these- but at least it is fun looking! xox

Images Care of Green Wedding Shoes.

Colour me happy...

2010-07-28T17:18:00.012+10:00

After yesterday's post I went on a search to find some colour to put in the house... and have a look at someway of recreating that amazing coastal beach chic...

Reminder of inspiration...

Loving for the dinning room... Anthropologie Mina Tablecloth

With this great plate Paper Pretender also from Anthropologie...

Intermingled with this great plate for colour and texture.... Sliced Persimmon Dinnerware

Loving these glasses! Fleur-De-Lys Tumbler...

I would then put a succulent on the table for a centrepiece...

Then it really feels like it needs this amazing dish to top it off... My pick would definitely be this Snapper and Fennel Tagine!

So to be honest I feel like it is a mix between boho and folk and beach and middle eastern, but isn't that the best way to decorate? :)

1938 California cottage...

2010-07-27T13:00:00.009+10:00

Hi all... sorry for once again posting on a Tuesday, I really hope this doesn't get to a be a habit! Work is once again frantic and unfortunately can't see an end for a month or so yet. I saw an image of this amazing kitchen on Style Files last week and finally had a chance to track down the article in House Beautiful to see more... and feel in love! The cottage is in California and is owned by the designer Krista Ewart's sister. I think the white with the amazing bold colours used throughout is gorgeous and would be great for the Australian light.

Fantastic white wood ceilings and beams... though the colours are bold against all that white it becomes subtle and soothing...

Loving the green and pink tones used throughout. The bold couch against the plain cushions and plain white coffee table makes a statement without going over the top.

A little reading nook... those black and white spotted stools are amazing!

Fantastic old 1960's chairs that have been painted white and reupholstered fit right into the theme with their amazing designed backs. Also love the scalloping on the bookshelves...

The shot that made me want more- who can go past a pink Smeg fridge? This is actually part of the guests suite... can I please stay? :)

This is a shot through the main kitchen. I love the red lights and those bunk beds for the kids with that amazing whale wallpaper...

The bedrooms- amazing yellow lamps and rug!

One of the children's bedroom in turquoise and red. I love that side table!

Amazing outdoor setting- love those old cane chairs and table with the vibrant pink fabric and that surf board really tops it off!

This house gives me amazing house envy! To see the full interview go to House Beautiful.

Happy weekend...

2010-07-23T16:21:00.005+10:00

Well it is time to say.... HAPPY WEEKEND! I hope you all have something lovely planned? I am off to dinner tonight- Japanese noodles to keep warm and shoe shopping tomorrow-desperately need some cute flats since I over zealously threw them all out in my bedroom clean! I am also going to do some cooking, a nice big batch of soup for my lunches next week- I always have a few stews and soups in my freezer in winter, so if I can't be bothered cooking I have something delicious and home cooked at hand, last night I made Moroccan pumpkin soup last night and it was amazing! My mother makes this amazing chinese beef soup so I am going to try my hand at that.

Anyway all... I am logging off for now, yay! Cam xox

Just a quick note...

2010-07-23T11:09:00.008+10:00

Back to my headless chook routine... isn't it fun? I really hope your day is going better! Can't wait till tonight when it is no more work for a weekend!

But thought I would send a quick note saying I am loving at the moment these Chinese Chippendale Chairs...

How good do they look in this dining room shot from Home Beautiful?

Or this amazing dining room. Love them paired with the arms chairs and of course loving the industrial lights.

From my pink style file- they work so well in this pink and white dining room!

Great for an office chair...

I think the best part is the back in the dramatic colour and the cushion in a fabulous print really gives them their own personality...

It is funny some of these are images from my style files and as I was posting it was like 'Oh wow they were in that shot too'... goes to show I must have liked them for a while now without really realising it! :)

p.s. why doesn't Australia have Jonathon Adler?! So many cool things...

Fantastic handbag giveaway!

2010-07-22T09:26:00.005+10:00

The fabulous Jessica of Style Obsession (love the name, aren't we all obsessed?) dropped in yesterday and let me know about this amazing giveaway on her site.

She has been given an amazing Oufi of London Leather Handbag to give to one of her lucky readers. How gorgeous is this handbag?

All you need to do is drop by her blog Style Obsession and...

a) visit Oufi blog and leave your email address or blog so they can contact you if you win!
b) become a follower and leave a note saying you are
c) blog about the give away and leave a separate note the you have and a link
d) tweet and leave a separate note saying you have

Each one gives you a separate entry. Good luck girls, I will be very jealous of the lucky winner. Cam xox

My bliss...

2010-07-21T17:15:00.006+10:00

The fabulous blogger Will of Bright Bazaar just posted on the latest English Elle Decoration... I have fallen in love with these two images...

Om my what a wonderful swing chair...

And I could happily move here and just bbq my food and swim each day.... I could even just take my swing chair and tie it to a tree!

Stairway to heaven...

2010-07-21T08:57:00.007+10:00

I am in love with painted staircases... I think they are a great way to bring in a dramatic splash of colour and really add personality to a house... plus cheaper then adding carpet!

From the simple to the colourful, I give you my stairways to heaven... and because I am loving orange at the moment loving the light grey with the orange highlights in the chair, the boxes, the dog and the flowers...

These next two are a gorgeous idea to add some warmth and quirkiness to your staircase...

Sorry had to drop it back in... I really love this staircase!

All I can say is OH WOW! Oh and someone has a really steady hand and a lot of patience!

And this last one is for those who lack storage in the home... a great idea to utilise some wasted space... plus you can then just paint the wood and create any of the fantastic staircases above...

Tuesday's tonic...

2010-07-20T14:53:00.003+10:00

Hi all, sorry I was lax yesterday. I am not sure if I mentioned but at work I am in the middle of photo shoot and just running around with my head cut off trying to get things done. I feel like there are days where all I do is put out fires and am not getting anything done myself and yesterday was one of those! Luckily today I feel like I have succeeded slightly and thought I would drop in and say a quick hi!

Today's tonic is a little retail therapy... Etsy you are my savour! I am also in a bit of a romantic mood today (I really am not sure why?!) and so I think that might have influenced my picks!

WANTING...

'Love' Recycled Felt Applique Pillow.

'Love with all of Your Heart' Knecklace.

'Love Is Better Than Chocolate' Typography Print 8x10.

Happy weekend...

2010-07-16T14:39:00.003+10:00

Well finally all I can say 'Happy Weekend!' Today I am like a little girl dancing on her toes waiting for her surprise, as for the first time in just under a year I get to see my best friend! The time between us has flown and dragged in equal parts and I can't wait to her all about her adventures in Japan.

(Us on the eve of her wedding)

I am also, thanks to Kerri's advice, on a pine cone hunt in the local forest so that I can start work on my decorations and off to buy Anna's book 'Half Broke Horses' and start my first read from the book club! I must admit both of these excite me as I have been on the hunt for a good book for a while now- the one I just finished last night was a little painful to get through in the end! (Don't you hate that- so disappointing, the cover looked so good!)

I hope you all have lovely weekends planned and I would just like to say a big thank you to all those of your who have recently joined me on this blogging journey- you are all so supportive and you make my day with your comments and advice.

Dreaming of...

2010-07-16T09:32:00.007+10:00

Dreaming of getting away from this cold city and work for while... this is where I would love to be for a month or so with my friends... drinking, laughing and eating!

Dar Binine Guest House- I wont say much for once as really the images speak for themselves!

If I ever go missing you might find me curled up here with a book...

So my lovelies, who feels like some time away to eat, drink and relax? :) Cam xox

Book club...

2010-07-15T10:10:00.006+10:00

I know I don't normally write about books but this week I have decided to write about one of my favourite books and hopefully 'pay it forward'. I would love you to then post about another book to read so I can discover new loves. If this is something you all enjoy I might post this a regular thing every month.

The idea came from backpacking through the Middle East and Northern Africa one of my favourite things was being given a book by a fellow traveller in passing and then paying it forward to the next traveller I met along the way. I discovered some of my all time favourite stories this way and loved the idea that this book that I was holding had been from far off lands and been read by fellow lovers of travel... in a way these books linked us.

One of my favourite books I read during this time was 'Lovely Bones'. I remember being huddled in the back seat of a bus devouring this book on a long 10 hour bus ride in Morocco. I was sitting beside a 6ft 4 country vet, who sat there astounded as I read the whole thing in one sitting and promptly burst into tears at the end.

So for my first book of Book Club I offer up 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. Markus Zusak is a Melbourne born writer who was already an acclaimed children's author however this is his first adults book and it is amazing. Maybe it is because he is used to writing for children but his insights into the main character the little girl Liesel and her complex relationships is so beautifully astute. Through the eyes of the narrator you see her grow and develop and find love in the oddest of places.

'On Their way to Munich in 1939 to be given up to foster parents, Liesel Meminger's six-year-old brother dies and is buried beside the train tracks. Watching, Liesel acquires her first book - The Gravedigger's Handbook.

It will be one of the 14 that give solace to her, an abandoned child, struggling to survive in war-time Germany. Her father has been taken away, branded communist; her mother vanishes. Watching Liesel, whom he christens "the book thief", is the narrator of Markus Zusak's novel of the same name.' extract from The Age Review by Peter Pierce.

I do warn you though, if you don't like to cry this might not be a book for you. I hope though you enjoy it as much as me... happy reading! Cam xox

Available through any Australian big bookstore and online at Amazon.

p.S read it now I think they are going to release a movie and that is never as good!

Help needed to save my Christmas in July dinner party....

2010-07-14T09:59:00.004+10:00

Ok today I promise to not write about more Orange. :)

First thing is first though I need help desperately. I wrote last week about my Christmas in July dinner party and my decorations if you remember. Well over the weekend I went shopping and largely got together my supplies for the craft side of things, however I am missing one vital ingredient- PINE CONES! I am desperately seeking help on where on earth you get pine cones from I have tried Spotlight and 2 Dollar Shops- are these in season at the moment in forests?

If you remember these are going to be the body of my little elf's that will adorn each spot- I have even imagined what each little man will do to represent the person he is made for. I am going to have one on ski's for my friend who was an Olympic Mogul skier, a snowboard for my brother, one gardening for my friend with the green thumb.

Please kindly save my dinner party and help me find pine cones! xox

More Orange...

2010-07-13T16:22:00.006+10:00

Ok so I don't think I can let this idea go... Here are some great rooms from Lonny which just use it as a small accent.

Oh and a couple I forgot earlier... Love the orange linen sheer curtains in the first shot and the black and white photo against that orange wall in the second...

Living with Orange...

2010-07-13T08:55:00.013+10:00

More and more of late I have been obsessed with using orange somewhere in my house... I am thinking for winter I might go and splurge on a new set of cushions and play around with the idea in my living room...

Loving this print by Bucks County Frames. I am definitely thinking this might be a first purchase for the living room...

Love Love Love! Love the runner and adore the stripe!

Hehe cheeky! Bike Love by William Dohman

Images care of Slumber Designs, Unknown and Etsy.

Weekend delights...

2010-07-12T09:26:00.026+10:00

Well I had a lovely weekend with my Mum. On Saturday we went to two different auctions and one antique market. The first antique action is a bit of a tradition in our family- I remember every Saturday morning getting up early to go and have a bacon and egg roll and a long troll through the goodies. There are normally four sections- the really good antiques up the front, the glass and ceramics, the old garage sale style junk and the bits and bob boxes- my dad and I fav's are the garage sale junk and the bits and bobs boxes as there normally is the most random array of goodies!

Anyway I always talk about auctions and the fantastic deals they house; Mum said that the other day she saw a butchers block that went at an auction for about $1,000 and now being sold in an up market antique store for $6,500. So there are definitely savings to be made- all it takes is time. Make sure you do your research go to a couple of auctions and see what they are going for, look at the quality of what is around and go into the stores and compare. This to me makes the purchase so much more fun as when you do find the right one you get the joy of knowing what a great buy it was and having a story behind the purchase!

Here are some of my picks from the weekend:

Chandeliers- these two were amazing for a big room...

Some beautiful smaller ones... make sure when you are buying at auction to look carefully at the crystals! Make sure they are all there and in good condition before you buy.

A mid sized blanket box in great condition...

Country Kitchen sideboard- fantastic project.

This was my favourite- a kitchen storage unit. I am not sure how clearly you can see it but each draw is named- there was a even a prune draw and tapioca draw! Fabulous- I asked the price range and it was est at somewhere around the $1,000 mark. So many people were looking at it I noticed so i am sure it will go for more!

A great shabby chic outdoor table...

This was a cool outdoor sign and thought would make a great single bedhead.

A shabby chic single bed for a little girl...

This was a fabulous basket of old shoe forms.... this will be snapped up by a dealer and sold at about $50 each...

I loved this an old movie projector and films...

A great big blanket box (when I first saw it a little girl was inside and it was the size of her- so cute!)... this would be great under a window or the end of a bed...

And lastly I did happen to get something for myself... a fantastic pair of vintage Dior sunnie's that were straight from a shop and never worn... I am totally in love with them!

Sorry the only photo where I am smiling properly I have my eyes closed! I really am bad at taking photo's... :)

I am hoping this blog looks better on your comp then mine as I left my laptop at home and seem to be working on a 1990's style computer which doesn't even have a good version of paint! xox

Happy Friday!

2010-07-09T16:37:00.004+10:00

Happy Friday everyone! I hope your last day of the week has been kind. I am excited as my Mum is up for the weekend so it will be nice and girly- S.I.T.C tonight, then tomorrow antique auctions and Spotlight shopping for my dinner party goodie's... then Sunday hopefully nice and relaxing with either a spot of golf or lunch somewhere nice (though I just saw what Son of Tied with a Bouw is up to and I must admit my weekend looks bland in comparison!)! Have a lovely weekend everyone- whatever you're up to! xox

Decisions, decisions, decisions... HELP!

2010-07-09T09:12:00.006+10:00

So for a while now I have been on the hunt for a console table for behind my couch that can house my laptop... Something I can sit and blog at comfortably with a cup of coffee...

Exhibit A:

Now I have found three and I really can't decide!

Complete Pads- Trestle Writing Table in White Wash ($1075)- loving the simplicity and rustic look (goes well with my old ladders).

OR

Complete Pads- Elm Trestle Console Table ($865)- love the detail on the legs and smoothed raw wood- but worried it is too high at 80cm?! Though the one above is 75cm so not that much different!

OR

Freedom - Excelsior Writing Desk ($599)-loving the legs and the draws would be a bonus and liking the art deco styling...

Help my blogging friends- which one would you choose 1, 2 or 3!?

Blueprint to Life...

2010-07-08T10:37:00.010+10:00

I just love this work space and mainly the massive hanging blueprint! It is fantastic against those stark white walls and the white work desk.

Here is how to achieve the look at home.

Wishone Chair by Hans J. Wegner. Stocked at Matt Blatt for 295 (not yet available in this colourway but they have a lovely ash black) or ebay! I have struggled to find this colour available in Australia so if anyone knows where, let me know!

From Ikea have a look through the Vika range of trestle tables.

My pick is Vika Fagerlid legs (75ea) with a Vika Amon slim line table top (99).

And of course the piece da la resistance- A beautiful blueprint. Blast From the Past on etsy has some beautiful old prints (including really beautiful Alice in Wonderland prints that would be gorgeous in a kids room) and maps and this great boat blueprint. Though look around at auctions as sometimes there are boxes of them!

Christmas in July...

2010-07-07T09:36:00.010+10:00

I think I might have mentioned before I have a small tendency to go a little OTT when I am excited. So last night I locked in the guests for my Christmas in July dinner party that I have wanted to do for ages now but keep remembering in August.

So last night I turned to my brother and said oh wow I have so many idea's and he goes 'that is what I am afraid of!'. :)

So even though it is 4 weeks off I am going to start planning and buying now. This a) will spread the expense over a couple of pays and b) mean I wont be rushed off my feet on the day since this time it wont be slow cooked which means prep in the morning and give me all day to run around!

So the theme is Candy Cane (as I love red and white as a table setting). First Stop is Martha- for some inspiration and idea's.

Loving the idea of a stripped tablecloth or runner- going to go to Spotlight and see what I can find in a similar fabric!

I love the thick candles above for the table and am thinking I will go find ribbon in spotlight to tie around. Then thinking for my coffee table for nibbles one of these wreaths with a thick candle in the center... what do you think?

Ok for my place holders I am thinking these little guys... I am hoping to have them sit on top of their little take home presents... I figure they can all be in different poses if I get good enough at making them! i.e: Fishing, on one knee proposing style, one reading etc...

Keeping in the theme of candy cane- For their gifts I will make this easy candy cane fudge recipe. This can be sitting at the head of each setting with the little guy on top and a cute handmade lable with their name to act as the place setting.

And key to any Christmas Table is definitely the crackers- one year Mum made these amazing ones with great riddles from the net and personalised gifts- I got a pearl necklace, my brother aftershave etc... (Now you can see where my idea of entertaining comes from). So I am thinking I will do the same in simple white with red ribbon and find riddles and have them printed out nicely with everyone's name to personalise each one and make some funky hats to go in each cracker.

Over the table I am thinking I will hang snowflakes in red and white. I made these last year for work decorations and ended up showing nearly everyone in the office how to make them...they are really easy and look amazing.

So this is my plan for this weekend- I am going to hit spotlight and see what I can find! Then at night over the next couple of weeks I can start putting together the decorations and getting everything ready for the big day! xox

Morning...

2010-07-06T09:26:00.002+10:00

I thought I would just post a quick post to say good morning. Today as you can see I am in a really good mood. Don't balloons just make you happy? :) xox

Image care of Amy Lynn Thompson.

Mad Monday!

2010-07-05T17:04:00.003+10:00

Sorry all today's is just a quick one as I have been run off my feet. I promise I will write more for tomorrow!

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I am sore on one side from golf (I have though quickly learnt I need a glove for my left hand and to stretch beforehand!) and bruised from ice skating (I was the only one of my friends to fall over as I stupidly went too fast when there was a packed ring- two groups converged in front on me to become and wall and the only place to go was down!). I did however successfully clean out my bedroom- but I will tell you more about that tomorrow.

For now I thought I would show you what I wish my bedroom had turned into overnight.

Alas no amount of redecorating and cleaning had made it so! :)

I am off now- my best friend flew in today and though she is still away up the coast at least for the first time in almost a year she is in the same country... WOOP! xox

Time to get ruthless...

2010-07-05T10:16:00.012+10:00

So over the weekend I completely cleaned out my room and it felt amazing! I should right up front say I am a hoarder- I think that if I have spent however much money on something I really should not get rid of it, even if it is 3 sizes too big and 5 years out of date. Hey I might wear it again right? Finally this time I was ruthless. I chucked out anything that no longer fit (luckily for me that meant anything too big not small for once)or I thought was not my personality any more. A friend wrote and said she once heard a saying that goes 'Your wardrobe should only reflect your personality, anything else should go!' I so agree and it is quite liberating. I now have about two thirds more wardrobe space and the best part is I am going to enforce a strict rule of one thing in one thing out!

I am lucky though, I have a quite big wardrobe and it is all mine! But I do have to look at space how how to maximise what I have (mainly my shoes! I have so many shoes!). Here are some great ideas for bedroom storage solutions.

I love the suitcases in this shot! Great for winter storage of blankets and jumpers.

And this is a beautiful old blanket box. Go looking through actions as heaps are out there!

If you have the room this is a great idea a low chest of draws can store extra bulky blankets and pillows or jumpers for winter. A great idea is to line it with a scented wood to keep them smelling good! Or add a long cushion to turn it into a seat for when your getting dressed!

I love the idea of featuring your books in your room- especially if your like me and a massive reader. But you could also use different baskets and hide your mess and use as additional storage.

This is a great idea- if you want to hide those books add drapes in a great fabric which could be a great and practical feature.

If you want to combine storage with your bedside table another great use for old suite cases to stack them- fill them with blankets - old books - memories and add a wonderful light for a feature.

Ikea is KEY!

I have one section of my wardrobe that is shelves and only small amount of floor space for shoes- so I have turned my shelves into shoe storage by buying lots of these clothes boxes from Ikea. The small ones perfectly fit one set of heels and the large fit my boots. (these are current design in Ikea mine are cream and green stripped- so just keep an eye out for a design that suits you!)

I also have an old brass bed so I have a bit of height under my bed- which I would like to say I could keep pristine and empty but in reality I use as extra storage. I have a variety of wicker baskets under there that hide all my bits and bobs. But these are great from Ikea coz they can close off and you can't see in at all!

Happy Friday...

2010-07-02T16:33:00.003+10:00

Happy Friday everyone... I have been having massive chocolate cravings this week (and no I am not pregnant! Just cold!) So I am off to buy my ingredients for this amazing desert from Gourmet Traveller. Tonight is a movie with the girls, tomorrow is gallery and dinner with my best friends Mum and Sunday, which I am SO excited about is the Winter Festival and Ice Skating in the park! I hope everyone has something lovely planned and has a great weekend. xox

Fridays inpiration....

2010-07-02T10:54:00.010+10:00

Ok does anyone else remember Thom Filicia from a the TV show Queer Eye for a Straight Guy? He was the interior designer who helped them turn their drab houses into something resembling livable! Well I thought I would just share with you his small humble house by the lake...

I love his accent of black used through out like the doors, staircase rails and metal- it looks fantastic against the light wood and the whites.

Great mix of modern and country kitchen, and I love the rug! (though he must be a cleaner cook then I am!)

LOVE LOVE LOVE! that table and metal lamp! So gorgeous!

How gorgeous is the cobbled stone fire place- definitely can see myself reading in front of that for hours on end!

This is my favourite shot- look at that view! I love the mexican fire, all I need are some fur throws, a glass of red and friends!

I also love his other design work. Here are some of my favourite shots from his portfolio. How great is this oasis?

I love these chairs and table.

Such a soothing room, fantastic side chairs and also LOVE the glass and mesh wall- though you do have to be clean when you have guests over as they can see everything! But it is a great way of giving semi privacy and increasing deepth perception...

I love this chest of draws amazing! Oh and want a set of those peacocks!

What a great way to create a feature in a small space..

I am all about his chair choice... I love these as well and love the stripped back stone wall firplace.

This last house is my favourite I love the use of deep rich pink in this entry...

I think my best friend needs this sculpture... :)

And again it is the chairs, how great is the pink chair and the great two side tables....

And a very chic nursery...

How amazingly talented is he? He really has brightened my day and inspired me on this cold and glommy friday... oh and can I please have that Lake House?!

Thanks to Wide Open Spaces blog who posted about his lake house and made me investigate his work more!xox

Time out...

2010-07-01T10:53:00.004+10:00

Today I seriously feel like calling a time out and everyone to their corners for a serious sit down!

Anyone feel like skivving with me and just sitting here with a massive wool blanket and a huge glass of red?

Winter survival pack...

2010-06-30T10:22:00.010+10:00

Ok whilst I am complaining that in Sydney it is down to 5 degrees in the mornings, I know others have it worse but still I am freezing! So I thought I would put up my winter survival must haves that will keep me going through this cold snap. (And by the way to the cynics out there- a.k.a Mr M it is the coldest winter since the mid 80's- yes not as cold as Japan but still cold for here!)

Ok a couple of must haves straight up are some fashion accessories. I love a good knitted scarf in winter and because I am massive hat fan a really nice black wool fedora! And the great thing about going shopping now is it is end of year and everything is on sale! These two are from Witchery- the 'Winter Soft Scarf' and 'Black Fedora'...

Also a nice winter jacket and high boots! Also from Witchery the Rib Collar Plaid Jacket and the Black Leather High Boots. Oh and you might need the Vintage Wash Zip Jeans to top the outfit off!

Chanel Hydration Mask- if your skin is anything like mine at the moment i.e. dry and tight this is a MUST buy for winter. I am really sensitive and can't use many products and a couple of years ago a dear friend of mine who is a Chanel Ambassador gave me a goody bag from a lunch she was hosting and ever since I am a convert. It is a mask and you are supposed to use it only a couple of times a week at max but I use just a drop at the moment instead of moisturiser in the morning and my skin feels amazing! (This might be too heavy for some but still as a mask you'll LOVE it!)

You also need to deck your living room and bed room out with some winter warmers in wool. I am loving by Home Life this amazing image. I love greys in winter!

Also from Luna Gallery some fantastic wool bed accessories. Once again love the greys but I do think nice autumn colours like oranges go so well to add a splash of colour- as winter really should have colours thrown in to make it cheerful and bright and lighten the room!

In winter I am all about food, slow cooked, time intensive, hunger filling meals that satisfy the heart and soul. I find winter is all about breaking bread with friends over stews with deep glasses of red wine. This weekend I am definitely going to try this fantastic recipe from Gourmet Traveller from the Rustic Italian Recipe article 'Pork Ragu with Porcini and Muscat'.

And winter really allows for indulgence (who notices under all those layers a couple of extra kg's) so I definitely think I would have to finish with a rich moreish desert and for those who know me well a nice desert wine! Maybe a port or a muscat... Maybe this one from Gourmet Traveller from the article entilted Let Them Eat Cake the 'Persian Love Cake' (I just love the title- also would be lovely if your not entertaining a whole host of friends but just an intimate evening in for two.)

But my ultimate way of surviving winter is to call a few close friends, pack up and head away for a weekend of fires, food and wine... Umm yes I think somewhere in the Hunter would be in order! xox

Stop Press!

2010-06-29T14:59:00.004+10:00

Viv over at Ish and Chi just posted the most amazing discovery of custom vintage bikes from Papillionaire in Melbourne and they post all over the world!

Now for all those who love me and are dying to show it... I would love you forever if you found it in your heart to give me...

Now i don't mind it in powdered duck egg blue (Maya for when you buy), with cream tyres but if you wouldn't mind asking if they could stretch to cream body that would be lovely. :) xox

P.S and don't be stingy I want the leather seat and grips with wicker basket and chrome carrier... please. :)

Chalk it up to fun...

2010-06-29T11:31:00.007+10:00

I have blogged a couple of times on the use of chalkboards in the home and the more and more I see the more and more I love this idea. So today's blog is dedicated to the different and sometimes quite interesting uses of chalkboard's in the home.

I love this first shot... I am not too sure where I found it as have it in my file of images that I collect. I love the chalkboard's to organise and I also love that soap bin. So sweet!

What a great idea to organise your herbs and remember what you potted. Cheap too- just buy the chalk paint and a terracotta pot!

From O Magazine. Yes the great Oprah has reached my blog- she truly is everywhere. What a great idea instead of a mirror.

Love this idea from dinner parties, this way it is easy to change names for new guests!

From Living Etc how cool is this storage seat for kids? Once again once I get over my heart attack of chalk going all over the place!

From Decor Pad two great uses in the kitchen- love the white clean and girly pantry with the chalkboard door and LOVE chalkboard cabinetry- what an awesome way to remember which door holds what! p.s though I am never that organised!

Ok so you probably wouldn't think for the bathroom- but wouldn't you prefer to look at this sometimes then self doubt? :)

Tag it with love...

2010-06-28T11:07:00.009+10:00

I love brown luggage tags- I think my love originated from Paddington Bear as a child and I have never let it go. I have been using them for my own styling for a while now, but I have also been inspired by other blogs use of paper tags in event planning.

Here are some of my favourites...

The following are from the ever amazing Green Wedding Shoes. This is from a wedding in Idaho. I love the pinned in notice board to find your seats and then tied somewhere on the table to know which seat.

From a very cute green wedding... very cute and easily made with a plain tag and cute stamps.

I love these labels from Cori + John’s Sweet Outdoor Wedding... the stationary they used was absolutely divine- so nicely aged and vintage and these unique labels fit perfectly.

Last week Eat Drink Chicposted a lovely D.Y. article on Summer Floral Gift Tags. To check out how to make these amazing tags and T&C's of use please go to Eat Drink Chic to find out more....

They really are cute and make an occasion quite personal. You can pick up some kitsch designs from Kikki K, though really I think they are cute if they are simply made from old brown luggage tags and string- all you then need are cute rubber stamps and you get a great handmade rustic feel. xox

Happy Friday!

2010-06-25T15:58:00.004+10:00

Yay it is almost the weekend... I am so looking forward to a relaxing one. I have booked myself a massage and a facial for some pampering tomorrow and of course I start golf on Sunday! I am very excited. I think I might do a quick shop on Sat to make sure I am appropriately attired. I did show my brother what I was thinking of wearing and he said he was safe in the knowledge I wouldn't with this weather! :) But tonight before I do any of that is 'date night' and it is a first date at that! Wish me luck! :)

I hope you all have a lovely weekend, and urge you to check out one of the events for Winter Festival if you're looking for something to do. Or there is always Paddington Markets on Saturday and I had a lovely day last Sunday strolling around the Bondi markets and would highly recommend you drop by to Hi to Sandy at Swell in Bronte for brunch or lunch if you're down that way.

Now I know this is a tease if you are in Sydney like I am but since I am in the mood to really relax this weekend- how nice would this be?

Happy weekends all enjoy whatever you're doing! xox

Travel gems...

2010-06-25T09:54:00.006+10:00

A girlfriend posted to me on FB yesterday if I knew where any good toiletries bags for travelling could be found. So Kimmy this blog hopefully will give you some answers! I must say I was a bit sad to see her old one go as it was an Uchi we purchased in David Jones together years and years ago and has literally been around the world with us on our adventures through Asia, the Middle East and lived with us in the UK. Not to mention endless weekends of local travel where it is normally joined by two Country Road bags!

Ages ago I found this fantastic site called Ciao Bella Travel who specialises in beautiful travel accessories for women travellers. If anyone is a frequent traveller or planning a trip this site is a must visit. They have carefully selected their products based on quality and what would help make travel more enjoyable. So please jump on their site and have a browse around!

They have a great range from Apple & Bee that are made from great fabrics and when fold out really allow you to get a lot in! These are my favourites...

This is the ultimate from the range it is the bowling bag! (This is only sold on the Apple & Bee site.)

'The apple & bee bowling bag is designed to be practical, for everyday use - it's also great for travel, or taking anywhere for that matter!! The outer bag is organic cotton with the unique apple & bee designs and a water proof lining, for those leaky product disasters. There are 2 inside pockets to store small make up items so you won't loose anything. Made with genuine leather handles, it is a timeless and sophisticated style that just wont date!'

Apple & Bee also have these gorgeous overnight bags!

Apple & Bee also have a gorgeous range of tote bags and what i call 'Mummy' bags for baby's needs. Anyway check out Apple & Bee!

xox

Quite a question...

2010-06-24T14:23:00.003+10:00

I love this question...

Opens up realms of possibility doesn't it?

Winter Festival...

2010-06-24T09:45:00.003+10:00

Yay you don't know how excited I was last night when I found out the Winter Festival was launching today! In a flurry of texts and facebooking last night I quickly booked our tickets to Ice Skating in the park. This event sold out last year in two days. So if you want to go I urge you to do the same call everyone and grab tickets now!

The alpine Winter Festival's new ice rink is four times the size of last year and after your skate you can enjoy alpine themed foods in the numerous stalls and drink jugs of mulded wine! This is a great opportunity to sit by cozy wood fires and enjoy Sydney in all its joy of fun and celebration. Plus we can dress up like Anna Carena in muffs and fur coats and skate like Torvill and Dean!

Ladies who golf...

2010-06-23T14:25:00.005+10:00

So I am starting golfing lessons on Sunday. Yay, how much fun! My girlfriend and I are booked in at Northbridge and ready to go. I have been warned to not go O.T.T before I even start and see how I like it but really you know me... I don't think anything is really done till I have gone O.T.T!

So for an outfit I am thinking my girlfriend and I can go dressed like these ladies! I figure at least if we are hopeless we will look good, plus the skirt is so short I am hoping the boys will forgive us if we take 10 hits down the fairway to get to a green as we will be bending over a lot! :)

I also love that bag- very vintage! As one of my guy friends enthusiastically told me he had a set of clubs for me to borrow when I told him I was starting golfing and then proceeded to give me their history dating back to when his dad was a kid- I do believe it will fit the era of my clubs.

Do you think they will let us take a pooch to round it off? xox

Sex in the City Style...

2010-06-23T12:25:00.007+10:00

With the release of the new S.I.T.C I have just found a great Etsy store that sells fantastic ballet tulle skirts just like S.J.P.

I am loving Ouma! I also love their photography... the locations are great and the mood and lighting are fantastic!

The classic Sex in the City Dress... LOVE IT!

The Queens Croquet Ground. This would be a cute Alice in Wonderland themed bridesmaid dress.

Striped Carnival Part Dress. How cute is the ticket booth? Fantastic pink and oranges and the type-face on the signage is really sweet and all add that vintage Carnival feel.

Striped French Pierrot. That ticket booth is amazing for a location shot, the colours are awesome!

Romance & Ruffles- loving the rusted car in this shot and the perspective!

Quite the Menace. How good does that crumbling wall and fire crusted doorway frame the shot? I really love the atmosphere and lighting by this photographer. Wish I knew who took the shots!

I did check and they do deliver worldwide so go to Ouma for more information!

Berry bliss...

2010-06-22T10:18:00.009+10:00

I am thinking since it is winter and time for wine and long cooked stews and nights by the fire it is a great time to get away with the girls on a girls weekend. So I have been on a mission over the last couple of days to find somewhere to book. I actually found this house a couple of years ago but never got to go- so thinking this just might be the time to book!

The house is Merribee in Berry it sleeps 18 and the reason I love it is mainly the immaculate styling of the accommodation and the amazing garden surrounds.

There are two accommodation facilities the main house and the granary.The main house sleeps 18-20 and is very family friendly!

It has lots of nooks and crannies for you to relax and read in. I love their use of white through out with the blue or red striped cushions... very relaxing.

Huge kitchen dining space... Love the high bar stool chairs around the dining room table.

You'll notice it comes very well stocked with local produce...

Great area for outdoor entertaining...

You can see why this might be my style of lazy weekend... YAY claw foot bath!

They also have a fantastic room for the kids to stay and play- how cool are the bunk beds built in the walls? I can imagine kids staying up and whispering and giggling in their own little hidy holes!

For the adults there are plush beds made up with fine cotton sheets designed for you not want to get out of...

You can also sit out under the huge veranda and relax and read. I love cane chairs- so comfy and causally chic (must be the shabby chic girl in me!)

The grounds are so divine- and they often cater for weddings!

You can also play games either tennis on the private court, volleyball, boules, table tennis and short stroll from the beach or river.

The Granary sleeps 2 and is gorgeous! Beautiful stone walls and it feels like your sleeping in a light house! How cool?!

They also sell outside the farm produce- if I was getting married I would completely find out if I could utilise this fantastic cart!

So who is in for a weekend away? :) xox

All images care of Merribee for bookings please visit their website!

Matt Blatt Sale!!!

2010-06-21T09:27:00.005+10:00

Woohoo I love when Matt Blatt goes on Sale... here are some of the goodies I want. Matt Blatt makes good design affordable- it is all replica but it is good quality and if you're anything like me it might be a while before I can afford the originals of some of these babies!

Reproduction Tolix Stool by Xavier Pauchard.

Replica Pierre Paulin Orange Slice Chair in Cowhide.

Replica Isamu Noguchi Coffee Table.

And 3 of these please for the kitchen! Replica Mario Mengotti and Sergio Prandina Notte Pendant Lamp.

Whimsical weekend...

2010-06-18T16:00:00.003+10:00

Since I am in a whimsical mood today, I think this image really sums up how I feel and nice way to end the week!

I am looking forward to a weekend of sleep, a fun brunch with friends and a Sunday cycle (ok the Sunday cycling should be interesting since I really haven't cycled in a while and have decided to cycle around Cambodia!).

Anyway all enjoy your weekends! xox

Friday's child is loving & giving...

2010-06-18T11:17:00.009+10:00

Ok so for those who know me, know I have been 'slightly' clucky for a while now. So you will have excuse me as I indulge in a small fantasy for a sec! Hey it is Friday and Fridays should be filled with whimsy!

How gorgeous is this little girls room by Patricia Halpin Interiors? I love the cane egg chair and that amazing wall paper!

Ok this one is slightly more subtle from Decor Pad... I really have fallen in love with the wallpaper... I actually would love to track this down for a library wall... But how cool would it be lying in bed dreaming of places to travel? Very Rudyard Kipling!

Now this was one of the original images that inspired me by the talented Sal at Once.Daily.Chic (a must check out if you aren't a fan already!). I love this circus themed room... how cool is the pin wheel?

I love the wall decorations in this girls bedroom, how amazing is the poppy growth chart? I also think the chalk board boxes are inspirational (whilst having a small heart attack about it rubbing on things)!

This nursery is cool as- it is one for the chic mommy. Love the natural woven wallpaper, green zebra rug and chair. Very simple and contemporary.

I love once again the simplicity of this nursery. The painted cherry blossom decal, the pink and blue rug with matching tones in the cushions and blanket and that beautiful Moroccan ottoman!

This speaks to my vintage side, you will note the use of bunting which is my small obsession! I also love the kids chair and the vintage feel to the bedding.

There is something I do like and something I don't like about the last room- but can't quite put my finger on it. It is very sophisticated for a nursery and I do love though the green and brown stripped chest of draws! I do think though it is missing the light airy soothing tones of some of the rooms above. I don't know- what do you think?

Anyway only 4 and bit more hours of today to go till the weekend- what's the plans? xox

Vintage inspiration...

2010-06-17T14:28:00.004+10:00

I wish I was as graceful, poised & beautifully dressed as this lovely lady...

Dior Paris 1960.

Spell it out...

2010-06-17T09:55:00.010+10:00

I have been wanting to buy some beautiful old vintage letters for ages now. I look every week on David Met Nicole to see what new ones they have or to hunt ones on sale. I first fell in love with the idea when a Stylist I used to work with in London brought beautiful guilded gold letters to a shoot. Unfortunately I have yet to really see quality ones come up at auctions, most of the ones in stores are imported and not local which make them more expensive.

I love this wall of mismatched vintage letters- I also love the casual styling of the french grocery bag.

While not classically vintage I do think the old typewriter keys picture is fantastic!

I am not even sure how this is done but I think it speaks to my love of industrial as I love those blue exposed shelves with the faded lettering above.

This is also not vintage though really easy to do yourself. Just grab some vintage mismatched plates (you can always grab some from bric a brac stores or auctions normally really cheap) and some paint and simply paint a statement!

Bedroom from Marley & Lockyer. This would be a gorgeous way to remember who's side is who's! :) And what a great head board out of an old fireplace (easy to pick up on ebay or auctions or trading post!)

Also from Marley & Lockyer -a simple statement...

This letter is amazing! And probably worth a small fortune... :)

This is a great mix of old frames and a letter. I have lots of these frames, you can easily pic them up now from markets and bric a brac stores.

Check out David Met Nicole for some amazing vintage letters and signage of all sorts of styles and designs or for French Zinc letters Ici et La in Surry Hills.

I think I have died and gone to Sonoma....

2010-06-17T08:53:00.004+10:00

My best friend once told me that she loved a muesli so much she wrote to tell them what a great product they had... I thought she was nuts! That is, until I met Sonoma. Some of you will know their brand already from their amazing range of Sourdoughs but if you have not tried their muesli I implore you, you must! I was looking through Harris Farm Markets and the muesli caught my eye- being winter I thought I need a nice winter warmer breakfast, having known Sonoma I thought I should try and the Honey Spice label looked so appealing... and now it is full blown LOVE! Locally grown Australian Iron Bark Honey and spice roasted oats, coconut chips, sultanas, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, sunflower seed and almonds...

Do yourself a favour, get some!

Black is back...

2010-06-16T12:12:00.012+10:00

I will be honest I never thought I would want to decorate with black in my home... I am quite simply a cream girl. But last week as I was looking through the amazing photo's from Lonny Mag I saw and LOVED a black bathroom. Wow could a cream girl go black?

From Lonny Mag... the stark white against the black is striking! I really thought you shouldn't do black in a small space because it makes it seem smaller- but this adds atmosphere and makes it seem very dramatic.

The first three are from Decor Pad.

Featuring Martensen Jones Interiors Powder Room. How awesome is that wallpaper?! Also love the water jug.

More and more I am seeing yellow used against black to create a dramatic and striking look. I am also a fan of those mismatched lamps but out of the same yellow and same shades.

This last one is fantastic... the black just sets off the crisp white. Love the blanket and pillows. I also love the head board made simply out of white boarding and the feature mirror.

Another yellow against black... how dramatic is this bathroom featuring my favorite claw bath tub, heavy black drapes and that gorgeous yellow bedroom chair? (small criticism would change those green tiles to white with a black feature tile!)

Apartment Therapy featured this kitchen last week. I know it isn't strictly 'black' but love the chalk board wall!

From Made by a Girl... a black staircase... this was another image that inspired me last week to go black... the banisters in white look stunning!

This one is interesting as most of the black rooms so far go for the dramatic white and black contrast where this room uses woods and naturals. I love the fire place!

Anyway the moral of the story is I wouldn't be afraid to use black... even as a shabby chic girl at heart! I really think it can be striking and in the older homes it really makes the most of the old arcatraving. xox

Such a sweet sentiment...

2010-06-15T16:28:00.003+10:00

Today Etsy is featuring blue on their home page and one of the products is this limited addition screen print by Mister Rob, I just saw it and I love the design and adore the poem running through...

The text in the print reads,
"I can't forget and I never will you smiled at me and from nothing something came. Now the world is new to me again I will remember still you smiled at me & now I dream a dream of good."

i heart third drawer down...

2010-06-15T09:22:00.011+10:00

When I think of Third Drawer Down I think quirky, unique, stylish & statement. They are a Fitzroy Victoria based design company that creates home wares and pieces for Museum Art Souvenirs. It seems a weird gig to get into, but the pieces they create are art in themselves.

The shop itself doubles as the artists studio and a museum- in fact the only trading museum in Australia. They in their own words describe their wares as 'eccentric and witty taste of products by artists/designers and niche brands include crayon rocks, chocolate pie charts, giant corn cob stools, children’s art supplies, limited edition textiles, bed linens and publications that question the mainstream conditions under which art and culture are bought and sold.'

These are my favourite thing in the store, they are pillow cases by Miranda July. One states 'Here you will dream of people you admire exposing your fraudulence.' & 'Here you will dream of endless kisses.'

They also have some amazing tea towels you could frame as art. Here are a couple of my favourites.

'Can we dance?' by Camilla Engman.

Enriqueta and Fosca Tea Towel

There are some great things for kids. I love these rock crayons.

This ruler would be awesome to measure your kids heights against. I could see this being a cool feature in a kid's rompus room.

For more of their amazingly quirky designs for house, home and friends go to: Third Drawer Down.

Thank you & happy long weekend!

2010-06-11T16:09:00.004+10:00

Thank you so much for all supporting me- we over achieved my goal at 54 Fans! I have truely enjoyed my first few months learning the worlds of blogs and I hope I haven't bored you too much. ;)

I will be spending my Queens birthday long weekend in the Southern Highlands- which has already started with a glass of red at my desk as I write this. I wish you all a safe and happy weekend where ever you may be!

C.A.M xox

Favourite pictures from this months Lonny...

2010-06-11T11:00:00.007+10:00

I am loving these hunting greens & browns... I thinking new theme for my brothers study...

This screen is so divine!

This bar cart has gone straight to my 'wish' list!

Quickly followed by this chair!

This ones for my brother... an Eame's with a H blanket! I need to get you a H blanket!

Ahhh Lonny 'love'... Happy Friday! xox

Go to Lonny for more inspiring pics!

Introducing - the ever so talented - Emma Cassi....

2010-06-11T08:55:00.009+10:00

The other day I was on one of my fav blogs and low and behold there was an image from a photographer I used to work with in London. It got me thinking about the Stylists and Photographers I used to work with at Laura Ashley and what they are doing now. I ended up tracing back through that photographer and her agent a Stylist I so admired and had the absolute pleasure of working with and occasionally art directing along side- Emma Cassi.

Emma Cassi is one of these amazingly talented people who seem to make anything they touch beautiful. She is a lovely French girl living and working in London for some of the most aspirational brands and magazines. She not only styles beautiful photographs, she also makes the most amazing french lace jewellery that is sold in Harrods and other up market stores across London and Paris. Each piece is hand stitched, beaded and embroidered with vintage sequins, Japanese glass beads, semi-precious stones, crystals, Swarovski, and gemstones, all of the highest quality.

When Emma was styling for Laura Ashley it used to astound me the level of detail she brought to each shot. She would bring the most amazing antique music pages to wrap presents or antique cake tins and muffin pans to fill a kitchen.She used to come to meetings with amazingly detailed sketches of each shot that were art all in themselves. Anyway enough of what I think I will let her work speak for itself...

Styling:

This one, I am very chuffed to be able to say, I worked on this shoot as it is an old L.A. shot.

How gorgeous are these little boys suitcase shots? So sweet!!!

Jewellery:

How beautiful are these pieces? You can see why I love her work can't you?

To see more of Emma's Amazing work go to:

Emma's Blog / Emma' Jewellery / Emma's Styling

Inspired by Spain + Churros!

2010-06-10T09:08:00.004+10:00

I am not sure how I have not seen this blog before on Green Wedding Shoe's as I could swear I have spent hours trawling through her amazing wedding pictures and some how I missed these amazing shots!

This was styled by Contance Curtis of Contance Curtis Events and in her own words was inspired by: everything old, romantic, and antiqued, and then we tied in a Spanish theme throughout. Our vision began with an old antiqued white table and chairs with a vintage lace tablecloth. The style of the home where we set up our wedding shoot was Spanish and that fit perfectly for our vision. Mexican Talavera plates from San Miguel de Allende set the tone from the beginning and led us to our Mexican themed idea of Churros as a possible favor or dessert table and all our signage. Romantic and lush flowers in mismatched glass vases, crystals, fresh cut limes, bright gold silverware, and wine glasses with gold edging were just a few of the small details that came together to create this whimsical wedding photo shoot.

Anyway I will let the images speak for themselves.

I love the colourful glazing on the Churros, they sit almost like pencils in a pencil jar... so creative!

I love this tablscape... the vintage plates, mismatched vases and the layered lace. I love the opulence of the setting... the over flowing flowers and the detail of the crystals scattered around the plates. So Divine!

How cute are the name tags and the menus on the fan?

For more details on this Wedding and others please I implore you go to Green Wedding Shoe's and prepare to be inspired!

P.S I must admit some of this posting is so I can use these amazing images as a future reference for myself!

Venison with Chilli and Chocolate...

2010-06-09T10:19:00.007+10:00

So a while ago I made this amazing stew and a friend asked me how I made it. So this blog is for you my darling girl Kimmy.

I took the recipe off Tommi Miers from the series The Wild Gourmets on ABC.

The series followed Tommi and her partner Guy from the South Coast of the UK to the North Coast of Scotland in which Guy hunted/gathered food and Tommi made delicious meals from their spoils. The premise was they couldn't buy anything so they had to harvest, hunt and slaughter or trade past goods for all their meals- not for the faint hearted but I highly recommend the book!

I did do a few things differently as had sent myself the recipe to my iPhone but not the process! Also I struggled to find venison (I would highly recommend talking to your butcher at least a week in advance- not night before!) and only managed to get an osso bucco cut- which is really expensive! I was serving 7 so I had 14 pieces in all- 2 each. I also cooked for about 4-5 hours as I cooked really low and slow- in my oven that means 150. I also recommend so you don't burn or dry out the top that you get backing paper and cut it out in a shape to fit your dish and push down so that it sits directly on top of the stew. Also so that it does not catch on the bottom once you have browned the meat and softened the veggies make sure you deglase the pan with some of the wine to get off anything that has stuck on the bottom.

I also changed a few things for presentation. For carrots I used whole baby carrots enough for two little ones per person and didn't dice them, I added whole shallots so that each person got a caramelised whole onion- so tasty!

I would also highly recommend serving with a firm bread (I used a nice fresh sourdough) or on a bed of sweet potato mash or if really decadent do both!

I would serve on a really nice heavy plate to give it that substantial feel... loving at the moment from Ikea the Dinera which has the beautiful rustic handmade feel to it. Also has a nice lip on the plate to catch all those amazing juices! For 6piece setting of bowl, plate and side plate it is only $29.99 bargain!

I would also look at getting a really nice wooden chopping board to present the bread.

Ingredients
2kg shoulder or haunch of venison
olive oil, for browning
2 medium onions, diced
2 carrots, diced
5 celery stalks, diced
2 parsnips, diced
5 garlic cloves, chopped
2 dried chillies, crumbled
500ml game stock (or stock made from bouillon cubes)
½ bottle full-bodied red wine
100g dark chocolate, finely grated or chopped
1 tablespoon redcurrant jelly

For the marinade
1 bottle full-bodied red wine
4 garlic cloves
1 sprig of rosemary
4–5 sprigs of thyme
2 fresh red chillies, deseeded and finely chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
10 juniper berries, crushed
salt and pepper

How to make:

1. Make sure your fire has lots of hot embers (or preheat an oven to 190°C/gas 5).

2. Cut the venison into 2.5cm cubes, removing large bits of fat or gristle. Put these into a double-layered plastic bag, along with all the marinade ingredients. Set aside for a day in a cool spot in the river (or in the fridge if you have taken your quarry home), turning every so often so that all of the meat comes into contact with the marinade.

3. When you are ready to cook, remove the venison from the marinade, setting the marinade aside for later.

4. Heat a large casserole over a high heat until it is smoking hot. Pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and when it is very hot add the venison cubes, 6 or 7 at a time, so that you are not overcrowding the pan and thus bringing down the temperature of the oil.

5. Brown the meat on all sides for 1–2 minutes, letting the pan get hot again between each batch and adding more oil if necessary.

6. When the meat is all browned, set it aside while you brown the vegetables.

7. Add a tablespoon of oil to the casserole and sweat the onions for 5 minutes before adding the carrots, celery and parsnips. Cook for a further 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start caramelising without letting them burn. Add the garlic and cook for another 5 minutes.

8. Return the venison to the casserole, along with the reserved marinade and the rest of the ingredients. Bring up to a gentle simmer, stirring to melt the chocolate into the sauce. Cook in the Dutch oven (or preheated oven) for about 90 minutes or until the meat is tender and falling apart.

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Giveaway!

2010-06-08T10:11:00.006+10:00

When I was a teen my mother and I used to watch Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic on the Lifestyle channel and *envy* all her amazing finds in flee markets that she then recovered and restored to amazing serene and calm works of art for the home. So much of her design style has influenced my own home and she was the one who really (apart from my mother) kicked started my love of interior design.

So today when I was scrolling through my fav's on my blog list and stumbled across Ness's latest post on Marley & Lockyer that Rachel Ashwell is having a give away for her new book I had to read more! I followed the blog trail to Lu of Dusty Lu an amazing stylist and photographer who worked with Rachel on her latest project for her website... she has now become another one of my 'loves'! I love her soft use of lighting and the way she frames her shots... if I was still working for L.A. in London she would be ideal!

Here are some of my fav shots all care of Lu Trapp of Dusty Lu

Now for you all to enter this amazing comp is:

1.Become or be a follower of Dusty Lu Interiors and read about all the ways you can receive your very own....

Autographed copy of:

or:

...AND IT IS YOUR CHOICE, YOU GET TO PICK WHICH ONE YOU WANT!!

JUST VISIT DUSTYLU INTERIORS TO ENTER...GOOD LUCK!

Outdoor Inspiration...

2010-06-07T12:27:00.009+10:00

I know it is early to look at what to do this spring for your garden but this year I thought I would plan and so when the time comes I am ready for it! I have been searching sites for inspiration and found Goode Green a green roof design and installation company that are based in New York... whilst I can't do roof top, I do only have a small area to work with since I am in a town house with a small courtyard, so what I want is minimal effort - maxim impact.

This first style sheet is what I am looking for- I love the lawn with structured trees and the garden with different garden beds... I like the English garden look and feel to them.

I like the contrast of decking and hedges in this garden...

These next two are just really cool roof tops... love the idea of an almost lush meadow on the roof, and the vibrant yellow of the last garden would just be amazing to look at!

Cutest Marriage Proposal...

2010-06-04T12:08:00.001+10:00

This is all over the blogging world today, but is so sweet I just thought I had to share. I love a guy who makes a real effort in a proposal shows he still wants to impress you. It also makes me think he is going to be fun in life and constantly surprise you! She is one lucky girl.

Passion for pottery....

2010-06-04T09:35:00.005+10:00

I was in Waterloo last weekend at Fratelli Fresh having lunch with a girlfriend and on the way out I couldn't resist doing a little browsing at Abode Bazaar, I saw these amazing plates that I instantly loved. Low and behold I am looking through Elle Decor today at What is Hot for June and there they are!

They are Mud Australia and glazed in beautiful pastels... on the outside is the raw porcelain and inside is the glaze... so pretty!

Vintage Vogue...

2010-06-03T10:41:00.006+10:00

Now I know it is winter and the last thing you are wanting to do is jump into the water, but how stylish are these shots I stumbled on? They are from Vintage Vogue and some are for sale from the Conde Nast Store...

1950s Swimwear:

These last two are my favourites... I would love to get both of these as prints and frame them....

Harpers Bazaar 1950s Photo by Louise Dahl-Wolfe:

Vogue 1963:

On the hunt...

2010-06-02T10:25:00.007+10:00

So sorry I have been so silent for a while, I have been recovering from tonsillitis and so feeling very sorry for myself.

For a while now I have been on the hunt for a table that can sit behind my couch and double as a work space with my lap top. I really want on old trestle table made out of an old door and rusty metal legs.... but have yet to find one slim enough to work behind the couch, and just made up for me to buy. :)

So this is the concept...

I love the desk surface on this table, the wood that has been worked till it is smooth...

I love the chair and leg shape on this table. I keep mentioning my love of Danish 70's design and this shape harps back to that. Would sit beautifully with my brothers Eames chair... but so far everything I have found in this style is costing an arm and a leg! I really though should stop just looking at Vampt Design in Surry Hills and falling in love with everything I see... Luckily it is also too wide to fit in that space which means I could feel a lot better about not buying it! :)

Here are two tables by Vampt Designs to show you what I mean, both of which I would love in my house... I do think the light oak would fit really nicely with my destressed coffee table. Oh I wish I had money!

Anyway if someone know's of a nice afordable option woud love to know about it! xox

I so want...

2010-05-27T10:36:00.003+10:00

An Aga of my own....

I think I've gone industrial...

2010-05-26T13:46:00.011+10:00

I have fallen head over heels for industrial lighting... I currently live in a big 3 bedroom townhouse that was built in the 70's (it has the tiling to prove it!) and I would love to use these big industrial lights in the living room and dining room space. I really think it would sit so nicely against my feather down couches and my brothers beautiful black Eame's chair, don't you think?

Love this old medical light, you can move them to highlight different spaces.

How cool is this? Love it! Love the rawness of the light globes!

I also really like these industrial chairs, perfect against the wooden table!

But love these spring chairs! OMG!

How cute for bedside table lighting? And very functional as you can expand and retract!

I would love this beside my brother's Eame's chair... Coco Republic have some beautiful new ones but David Met Nicole have some amazing old ones!

Oh I am definitely going to look into these some more! I have so many idea's! xox

P.S go onto Coco Republic's site for car / furniture porn! My two love's in one!

Little green bottle....

2010-05-20T09:31:00.008+10:00

I am noticing more and more of these fantastic bottles being used for events. I really love them. I would love to have them as a centerpiece on tables, I can imagine them in all different sizes and shapes with little tags that say... Drink me. Just like Alice in Wonderland, so cute and different!

This image is via Polkadot Bride... I love the idea of having an old fashioned soda bar at an event, and these bottles look delectable and are fantastic colours! I can just imagine if I did this I would create a 'stand' and have my cute little bunting around the top!

This is Amy from Eat Drink Chic's take on it, I love the pastel colours...

Here are the straws she also found from Hungry Girl which fit in so nicely.

This shot is from Green Wedding Shoes, it is a little bar that was set up for a backyard wedding, so cute! I love how American weddings are 'styled' like a fashion shoot... They are really amazing works of art and the detail they go to is incredible.

So cute! Makes me want to host a party just so I can create soda bar of my own. xox

Table success...

2010-05-19T16:21:00.005+10:00

How cute are these low budget table centerpiece's made with flowers from Martha Stewart? So many people dismiss flowers that are cheap (as in $5 to $10 a bunch), but look at how sweet they look, plus they are generally available all year round. I love the idea that you can make a bunch of flowers spread further by using bud vases and by using all different types you create a striking table. Though true to my heart my favourite has to be the one with recycled tins...

These images have cheered me up and given me a little summer to this awful cold weather. Hope it does the same for you! xox

A perfect weekend in...

2010-05-19T09:55:00.009+10:00

As winter is drawing in on us thick and fast I have been thinking about a beautiful winter getaway I took last year with good friends. Five of us drove down to Kookawood house about 15 mins drive out of Lithgow NSW. The house was this amazing A frame cabin that was beautifully decorated with old world charm. The owner had scrounged around markets and auctions to find cute pieces to decorate the house. The overall feel was rustic but in no way was it old and uncomfortable. The stove was state of the art, the floors in the bathroom were heated for your comfort, the sheets were crisp white linen- overall you felt that you were in the heart of the country with all the warmth and comfort of staying at an old friends home and best of all there was a great big fire that when blazing heated the whole house to perfection!

The entrance to Kookawood... how gorgeous is the stone work? They have beautifully created a resilient garden around the house that survives the harsh winter and still shows colour and vibrancy.

There are beautiful views from all around the house and you can enjoy them sitting on the love seat or rocking chair provided on any side of the huge surrounding veranda...

Great for lunch outdoors...

I love these little details in the garden! Throughout she has used gently rusting farm equipment that contrasts against the greenery...

The interior is beautifully decorated with antiques and nic nacs. The kitchen uses old fashioned design with modern technology in the state of the art stove. I however love the kitchen cabinets made up of three old kitchen dressers, how good does it look? Plus there are laying hens just out the back and we could go and get our own fresh eggs each morning for breakfast, for lunch and dinner we went to the herb garden and picked fresh herbs... this place is designed as a cooks dream getaway!

The bathroom, with amazing claw bath tub and remember even in winter it is toasty warm from the under floor heating...

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The master bedroom with an amazing view of the valley below!

There are two main bedrooms in the main house however if you have a couple of extra guests you can also rent the cabin attached... very sweet for a couple of lovers...

And you would certainly need the fire when it can look like this first thing in the morning... but it makes it all the more worth while!

And the best thing is you can bring your best friend too...

All images care of Kookawood, for bookings please visit their website.

Down the rabbit hole...

2010-05-18T10:17:00.004+10:00

I love this mood board so much from Crystal at Wed Share Daily that I just had to share! It is inspired by Alice in Wonderland and is perfect for a vintage wedding...

I think I have found my laptop bag!

2010-05-17T15:39:00.002+10:00

The Maggie Bag by Pretty in Pink... how cute and it comes in all sorts of fabrics and only $69! Really nice and unique! I Love It!

Winter style...

2010-05-17T13:12:00.011+10:00

Ever since I lived in London about three years ago I have been obsessed with Gumboots. Over in London they are everywhere as they built up a following amongst young girls for festival chic. I have yet to find anything over here as trendy as the ones in London and so my search is ongoing to find the perfect pair of Gumboots for winter.

You can get some really great designs now that show your personality, you shouldn't be afraid to make a statement with your boots!

I love this look for summer... I saw a girl the other day in little jean shorts and cool gumboots... they make a great statement piece.

Your formal gumboots!

Now this is an unique idea for a wedding shoe! At least you will cater for all types of weather... :)

Now if you know anything about gumboots it is that the biggest most prestigious brand is Hunter in the UK, they make them in all sorts of colours...

However if you want to really go all out these are from Hunter designed by Jimmy Choo!

I think these are my favourite, I love the cherry blossom design and they really show the little girl in me!

Although gumboots are now a fashion statement really they just make me want to jump in the mud! :)

For your own gumboots go to: Pretty in Pink Designs