designBLISSinc

Whitewash & Co Penthouse Showcase

2012-02-15T20:47:00.000-05:00

Sarah Gunn, Leigh-Ann Allaire Perrault, Jo Alcorn

Last Saturday I attended a private media event hosted by Jo Alcorn of Whitewash & Co. You can check out the link to her blog here to find out more about the event. As most of you know, I am also her design assistant and helped to bring this creative project to life. Jo took a blank canvas and transformed the entire Penthouse using only two stores: Ikea & BoConcept. The overall space presented a unique urban flare with funky artwork, industrial furniture, and fresh fabrics!

[via]

Stay tuned for the final reveal will be appearing on Cityline television in the next few weeks.

The Art of Window Displays

2012-01-28T13:43:00.001-05:00

An upcoming window display project for school has me exploring some fabulous window displays. It is amazing to see the creative process and the elaborate displays produced.

Our task for school is to outfit a window at the Salvation Army and create magic! We came into the project full of inspiration and elaborate ideas for the window. Unfortunately, we are realizing our ideas would be hard to execute with the small selection in the store and are back to the drawing board!

Here is the window location we are dealing with:

Hopefully we will find some new inspiration with the following photos (and quickly):

[via]

In preparation for the project, my partner Amanda (blog) and I did a quick one-hour window display with household items to understand the basic principles and elements of design and prepare for our ultimate project:

Hope we can get inspired quickly and start putting our ideas into production!

I’m off to the Canadian Design Bloggers event tonight and can’t wait to meet up with all of the fabulous bloggers I am inspired by each day.

A Love Affair with all things French

2011-10-11T08:23:00.001-04:00

Today’s guest blog post comes courtesy of Arcadian Lighting; enjoy!

Most designers and design bloggers have a love affair with all things French because of their of décor and design is inimitable. In many French homes you'll see a combination of styles, colors and periods, all put together with a joie de vivre. From the way light fixtures are hung in a dining room, to the sangfroid approach to living room and bedroom arrangements, this round-up will offer a glimpse of what makes French living so ridiculously chic!

Desire to Inspire via

Though this dining room is a mix of neutral colors –white, clay, brown-- there's nothing neutral about the design. A large white dining room table atop an old, plush rug with a wonderful mix of mid-century modern chairs; Panton S chairs, a Bertoia Wire Chair, Jacobsen's Ant Chair look eclectic with these white fiberglass chairs by Ross Lovegrove. The two pendant lights look simple but their handmade quality is what makes them unique.

Habitually Chic (flickr), via Domino Magazine

This Paris apartment belongs to fashion designer Erin Fetherson. Inspired by belle epoque sensibilities, she designed her living with luxe details. Large windows provide natural light, brightening this pink damask daybed with matching pillows. It may seem odd to pair pink damask and mossy green velvet atop a zebra-skin rug, but the combination of colors and textures work well together.

House to Home via

The master bedroom in this converted French barn, in Gard to be exact, is simple, soothing, and so well-designed. The couple incorporated these natural stone walls and wooden beams throughout the home, but outfitted each room with modern pieces for a rustic, yet chic look.

Marie Claire Maison via

Here's another rustic chic bedroom -- this one decorated in shades of gray, purple and brown. The bed sits a tad low, next to the chunky wooden nightstand and two task lights used as wall lamps.

Marie Claire Maison via

Inspired by Native American textiles, these homeowners decked out their home in Normandy with tribal prints, textiles and sculptures. They were also lovers of the Wild West and their wooden bathtub with a rainfall shower head was inspired by the water-buckets used back then. The result is exotic, rustic and still so very chic. It seems the main qualities about French décor and design is this seamless integration of old and new, color with neutrals, modern with rustic. It's not uncommon to pair more than two styles together and there's always a focus on quality, not quantity. This, of course, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the love affair with all things French!

Content provided by Arcadian Lighting, a site that specializes in top quality lighting fixtures at extremely affordable prices. Come visit us today!

-----

Thanks Arcadian Lighting for such a great post!

[packing my bags]

2011-08-10T07:13:00.001-04:00

Today is actually Thursday for me as this Friday Ry and I are bound to New York City for five days! We are headed to the big city to help celebrate a friend's 30th birthday (Shhh. It's a surprise) His girlfriend has organized a group of about fifty people to ring in his birthday celebrations at a downtown venue. Our last visit was around New Years and we got around to most "touristy" things on our list; including, scouting out the best pizza spot, strolling central park, hearing from a ground zero survivor (I was in tears), dancing on the life-sized piano, and of course avoiding frost bite. This time we have left the trip up to our gracious hosts and chance. We are flying Porter Airlines for the first time and I’m very excited about it!

If we get a chance, I'd like to :

Have a picnic lunch in Central Park (blanket and all)
Visit ABC Carpet & Home / Fish Eddy's (just to look of course...)
Scope out celebrities at Starbucks in Tribeca (Jay-Z & Beyonce would do)
Head to Greenwich Village for a comedy show (scope out the future talent)
Test out some street vendors from the show Eat St. (Wasabi Ice Cream from the "Big Gay Ice cream Truck" anyone?)

[via] [1] [2] [3]

Any other suggestions I should keep in mind for my "left up to chance, not planning a thing" vacation? haha

Since we are working through Winter Stories & Christmas specials here at Style at Home... I'll leave you will some snapshots from our Winter vacation to NYC. Let's be grateful it's still sunny and warm here and we don't have to worry about frost bite. xo

Technorati Tags: New York City,NYC,Porter,Central Park,Fishs Eddy,ABC Carpet & Home

[caught my eye - floorplans for food]

2011-08-08T13:31:00.003-04:00

When I was young I was obsessed with floor plans in newspapers and magazines, often advertising development properties. To this day I still love them; I imagine myself in the space, walking around and of course decorating every inch of it! I stumbled across this awesome "Luxury Floor Plan" platter from Fishs Eddy in NYC.

On sale at Fishs Eddy $16.48

[via]

[figuring out the design industry]

2011-08-07T11:04:00.001-04:00

This summer has been filled with many exciting opportunities and networking experiences within the Design industry. As many of you know, I am currently expanding my education in Interior Decorating at Humber College [with one more year remaining] and am trying to figure out my place within the industry.

[Crate & Barrel Tweetup 2011 via]

The start of the summer offered an opportunity to work along side Jo Alcorn from Whitewash & Co, as her Design Assistant- through her personal business and for her new adventure within the design television world. [I’ll let her tell you more about that later] I learned so much during that time and met some incredible people in the process- and boy has it made watching televised design shows a bit different… The process involves a large production of people and inventive thinking! I am so thankful to Jo for taking me under her wing and expanding my experience!

My latest opportunity started last week with Style at Home Magazine as a Design Intern. The first day began on location at a residential kitchen & mudroom renovation, designed by Tamara Robbins Griffith [my new boss] & Samantha Pynn (Pure Design HGTV). The renovation will appear in the October 2011 issue [be sure to pick up your copy and check it out] We began by styling the spaces for photography and ensuring the props would appear well on camera. How’s that for a first day!? I had the opportunity to meet Samantha twice in the last two weeks and I can say she is exactly how she appears on her show- friendly, outgoing and of course, naturally beautiful! So far, I have learned about preparing design stories, the style news feature, scoping the perfect products, creative idea generation, and so much more!

I will be with Style at Home for six weeks and will be returning back to school in the fall. I am still trying to figure out my place in the industry and which direction I hope the head. Only time will tell… I also hope now I will have some more interesting blog posts to come, as I am constantly surrounded by the industry.

Technorati Tags: Jo Alcorn,design,television,Style at Home,Style at Home Magazine,design intern,Samantha Pynn,Tamara Robbins

[guest post- design shuffle–classic accessories]

2011-06-29T08:00:00.001-04:00

This morning I have a guest post courtesy of Susi from designshuffle.com – a great place for designers and decorators to exchange ideas and portfolios of their work. Their site is build upon a network of creative beings and allows users to upload their work and discuss among each other, for free! Definitely check it out.

-----------------------------------------------

Hi all! I’m Susi and I write as a guest blogger for DesignShuffle.com, a fabulous social media site that promotes interior designers from around the world and their work. My writing focuses on things I'm passionate about: interior design home furnishings, gardening and art. I'm lucky enough to have a background in art history, auctions, and antiques, and a passion for interior design ideas.

Plus, I get to look at gorgeous things all day and write about them. What a fantastic job! I'm excited to be writing about black and white designer accessories this week for Design Bliss, Inc.

I chose a mix of accessories that combine black and white and some that are either black or white from some of my favourite designers, including Jonathan Adler and Trina Turk. I love how crisp black and white feels in the home. Hope you enjoy this! Thanks for letting me be a guest here at Design Bliss Inc.!

The Lennoxx via

Love this white ceramic dragon lamp with crisp black shade from Jonathan Adler. We've been fans of Adler's white ceramic accessories for years, including his animals.

Mallie Plus Posh via

Fun stripes on this garden stool by Janson from Mecox Gardens. Would look great as a side table in any bedroom design.

This Next via

Also from Joanthan Adler, these black and white chargers would look great under a plain white or solid color dinner plate.

Mallie Plus Posh via

Great black and white napkin ring from Diane von Furstenberg's home décor collection. Reminds us of a big, chunky bracelet. How fun!

DecorPad via

Classic Greek key design patterned rug in bold black and white by Trina Turk. Her home collection has the same wonderful sense of color and pattern seen in her fashions and inspires many dream decorating ideas.

Clayton Gray Home via

Also from Trina Turk home, this needle point pillow in black and white Shanghai link pattern. Turks pillows feature great graphic patterns in black and white or bold colors.

Wild Swans via

From the London based Scandinavian design boutiques, Wild Swans, the black My Hideaway candlesticks feel modern and classic at the same time.

Matthew Izzo via

This doorstop designed by Harry Allen might appeal to a certain generation who remembers “four on the floor”. Allen also designed the baby pig piggy bank and the fruit bowl that is cast from real fruit. His banana bowl is simply a bunch of bananas. Irreverent designs to bring humor to your décor.

This post comes courtesy of Design Shuffle, where you can find top tier interior designs from around the world – from New York interior designers, Los Angeles interior designers, and more, check out the latest at Design Shuffle.

-------------------------------------------------

Thank you so much Susi for educating us on your site and sharing some classic accessory pieces for the home!

* I was not compensated for this post, I just like to share knowledge whenever possible.

Technorati Tags: design,shuffle,decor,accessories,classic,black,white,interior,decorating,designshuffle.com,jonathan adler,trina turk

[posterjack winner!]

2011-05-11T09:19:00.001-04:00

We have a winner!

[via] [via]

I was very excited to hold my first giveaway and am very glad to have met some new faces!

Taking my cue from other fellow bloggers- I used random.org and generated the winner:

The winner of the $50.00 credit to Posterjack.ca is Shannon from What’s Up Whimsy!

Thank you to all who entered and I can’t wait to host another one again!

Happy Wednesday!

[teeny tiny - galley house]

2011-05-09T07:55:00.001-04:00

[via]

This teeny tiny house was designed by Architect’s at Donald Chong Studio and is fittingly known as the “Galley House”. Could you imagine living in the oh-so-traditional home next door and seeing this Ultra Modern design come to life? I’m sure they were pleased- but I am fascinated by this house and was so excited to have a peek into this Architectural beauty.

I came to know about this property through a school assignment to design a room around the iconic Egg Chair. The house actually belongs to a teacher at our school within the Industrial Design program.

Before:

[via]

After:

[via] Photo by Bob Gundu

[details]

The house is an amazing 2,400 sq. ft among three-stories and only 12 feet wide – A real challenge when designing a living / dining space I came to find out but it is very possible. There are no windows on the sides of the home due to Municipal code but the Architect was very clever in assuring the home is well filled with light. A quote from their website sums up the project well: “Through an incremental urbanism”, the Galley House aims to be an architectural/typological expression of Toronto’s desire for a healthy, dense, urban lifestyle.

[via]

[via] Photos by Dean Kaufman

This is the living room we were assigned to design around the iconic Egg Chair. [I didn’t have these photos until after the project was complete and I realized this was a real house]

[via] Photo by Dean Kaufman

My Solution:

Result:

I learned some lessons through this assignment – my teacher didn’t feel the Egg Chair was the focus of the room [considering the sofa was a $30,000 iconic piece of its own] Which I agree with fully - but in the rush of getting the assignment done I didn’t stop to consider it.

I perhaps should have also gone with another layout but the requirements for storage, ample seating and coffee tables didn’t leave very many options.

Anyway- Hope you enjoyed discovering this unique house in our own backyard [Toronto]!

Technorati Tags: galley,house,donald chong studio,toronto,modern,small spaces,Egg Chair

P.S Don’t forget today is the last day to enter to win a $50 credit to Posterjack.ca – Click Here

[gallery & giveaway]

2011-05-02T07:40:00.001-04:00

Our long awaited gallery wall has finally been completed – it is a fabulous addition to the hall and reminds us of all the best times from our adventures & travels. Last year I had four 8” x 10” photos printed for… $50.00.. yes – so the thought of reprinting an entire gallery wall had me worry about the price.

Until I realized & learned about a great Toronto company – Posterjack.ca – a fabulous website that allows you to order custom photo sizes to be printed with the highest quality printer – oh and more than affordable! Photos can be printed on photo paper, Peel N’ Stick, Canvas or in custom frames.

Behold – the gallery wall! [giveaway details at the end to win $50.00 for Posterjack.ca]

I ordered this custom framed photo of a lizard peeking out from the foliage in Hawaii – it makes me smile every time I walk past it.

I was finally able to hang up my ABC I*Heart*You giveaway win from Brittany over at My.Daily.Randomness – along with our local photos [the Kingsway theatre / High Park], stunning Hawaii photos, and some of our favourite memories.

[contest details]

Posterjack.ca is giving one lucky reader a $50.00 credit towards photo purchases!

In order to qualify for the giveaway – you must:

Follow designBLISSinc blog [leave a comment noting you did so]

For extra entries [leave an extra comment for each of the items below]:

Follow me on Twitter
Tweet about the giveaway mentioning @designblissinc and @posterjackdotca

You have until Monday May 9th to enter and I will announce the winner on Tuesday May 10th.

Thank you Posterjack.ca for the fun giveaway and good luck everyone!

Note: this contest is only open to Canadian residents

Technorati Tags: gallery,wall,photos,posterjack.ca,poster,giveaway,designblissinc,designbliss,contest,frames,hall

[guest post]

2011-04-19T07:43:00.001-04:00

I am both thrilled and honoured to be featured over at Staci Edwards’ Blog – Inspired by Life today -

I am sharing my “Favourite Interior”. I mentioned that the space I chose is my “Favourite- For the Moment” because of course I couldn’t narrow it down and I also have different dreams for our home in the future.

I also have a treat coming very soon for the readers- hopefully before the end of the week..

[via]

Pssst. It’s not a cupcake - Can you say giveaway? Stay tuned!

[ for the love of our new brick wall ]

2011-04-05T23:40:00.001-04:00

Our FIRST EVER Mini – Reno … It’s no major tear down or investment but it is our first time hiring a contractor and pulling through on a home improvement! The whole process went very smoothly and is helping to get the wheels turning & get some things accomplished on our to-do list.

We installed “can’t believe it’s not brick” wall tiles – Amazing!

Close-up Beauty

The Installation Process:

- Having a professional do the work for us was really easy (no kidding eh?)

-We found a company called Century Architexture at the Interior Design Show and arranged to view different samples and ended up customizing the exact look we wanted to make it feel as if it was always there.

Who doesn’t love brick in a loft? – We always dream of a NYC loft…

It came together very quickly – from bland and boring to colourful and interesting.

Almost done – waiting to dry & be all dressed up!

What the wall previously looked like:

Let’s get up & close shall we -

We had a great experience and can’t wait for our next mini-reno adventure : )

Technorati Tags: Renovation,Reno,Brick,Wall,Century Architexture,Loft,Reveal

[design bliss–for the love of Montréal]

2011-04-01T06:53:00.001-04:00

The city of Montréal is such an Architectural treat for design lovers – the cobblestone streets, historical buildings, history, character & charm!

Our visit there this past weekend flew by & included a mouth-watering French “tapas” style restaurant dinner until midnight! Lots of vin Rouge et Blanc : ) & of course a Montreal Canadians game!

I fell in love with the city’s character

Residential homes - styles ranging from Victorian, Georgian, & Art Deco

Awe-Inspiring Architecture

Stunning city views a top Mount Royal

And of course – there’s nothing better than the Canadian Tradition:

Les Habitants! – A Montreal Canadians game!

What is your favourite part about Montreal? I’d love to know as I’m planning to head back again!

Technorati Tags: montreal,montréal,architecture,city,views,canadians,history,character,charm,cobblestone

Photography: All pictures original [via]

[design bliss–for the love of felt]

2011-03-24T08:32:00.001-04:00

I would like to attempt to create some regularity with the introduction of “design bliss” – for the love of… and feature my favourite things every week.

This weeks pure design bliss comes from our woolly friends, who have so lovingly donated their eco-friendly products:


	[via]

The trending of felt is such a great option to add interest, character and be mindful of the environment! – At the moment the most common use of felt is neutral and grey – a little colour could be fun ; )

Just check out the endless options:

Roxey Rug – Carpet from Crate & Barrel:

Each piece of laser-cut and compressed New Zealand wool felt is woven into the backing for stability. – 100% New Zealand Wool

[via]

Rosebud Felt Bowl – Accessory from Domestic Aesthetic:

This felt bowl is made from industrial felt to resemble the iconic rosebud. 85% Factory-excess Wool & 15% Mixed Fibers

[via]

Woven Felt Chair – Lounger from Rozit Arditi

Laser cut birch plywood, bent laminated birch veneer, industrial felt, polyacrylic finish

[via]

Armchairs -

Gubi Chair	Bufa Chair

[via]	[via]

Pillows:

The felt stones by Ronel Jordaan:

[via]

Rose Pillow by Z-Gallerie

P.S [I found a

fabulous DIY

of this pillow

here ]

[via]

P.P.S – this pillow is current half price : ) on their site here

Table Runners & Blankets

Bloom Table Runner by Selina Rose	Felt throw by Ronel Jordaan

[via]	[via]

Love it? Is it here to stay? I guess we will just have to wait and see.

Technorati Tags: designbliss,felt,wool,crate & barrel,domestic aesthetic,selina rose,Z-Gallerie,Ronel Jordaan,Rozit Arditi

[horror vacui]

2011-03-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

What you ask? Well… being the curious student I am- I was reading definitions from my History of Furniture textbook and stumbled upon this interesting one.

Horror Vacui – I believe most of us have this fear [minus the ultra-minimalists reading]

Horror Vacui – Living Room Style


[via]	[via]

[Although these spaces are very beautiful – they lack a bit of colour & personality for me]

On the other end of the extreme- over decorating can cause another sort of anxiety.


[via]	[via]

I’d like to avoid Horror Vacui & let some personality show without feeling crowded!

I always swoon over Sarah’s living rooms – I love a space that is liveable, relaxing, and brings interest without distraction:


[via]	[via]

Wouldn’t you agree it’s the perfect middle?

Do you suffer from Horror Vacui ? Or would you classify yourself as a minimalist?

[lower bay station]

2011-03-16T22:08:00.001-04:00

When I moved to the “BIG” city [Toronto] this past summer, I worked in Yorkville and took the subway in every morning to Bay station. On a few occasions I noticed security guards in front of the “mysterious door” off the subway platform. The second time around I realized they were filming some sort of movie in this “closet”. I forgot about it for a while and decided to get the inside scoop! [maybe not such a big secret but definitely of interest for those who don’t already know]

The infamous Lower Bay Station is an abandoned subway platform, used for only 6 months in 1966 – now home to movie sets, fabulous parties, wedding receptions [yep], ghost stories and a whole lot of curiosity.

[via]

One party in particular, was held by Absolut Vodka for 350 guests - the Lower Bay Station was transformed by Canadian artist Justin Broadbent to a spectacular space of art. [the full article here]

Just a snapshot of his fabulous work in an “Absolut World”:

[via]

So although this may not be new – Bay Station was my home this past summer and helped welcome me into the big city and I love it’s character.

Any other hidden character spots in this big city?

[sharing space]

2011-03-09T06:39:00.001-05:00

When you live in less than 700 sq ft. - Space comes at a premium! Moving from a full family house, or a ten bedroom “mansion” at university…

our loft is starting to feel _small

[Just like this packed car after our trip to Costco in Hawaii for two weeks- we couldn’t see / move an inch. ]

I should say I have taken up more space than Ry and he has been very easy going about it all. We are settled here for a little while longer.Sharing a space properly is so important to maintain your relationship, whether it be with a friend or a partner. In my case, making the leap and moving in with my boyfriend last April (Almost one year whoo! ) has been the best decision!

Some personal tips I find help to share a space successfully:

1) "Mind the little things - don't make a big fuss - just get over it."

There will never be a point when two people have the same ideas about how a space should be
Creating what I call "drama" regarding minor issues will damage your relationship and add Eau de Tension in the air- toxic for both.

2) "Find your space within the home to escape when it get’s "crowded"

Whether it's a man's cave or women's escape resort, having a place that is "all yours" is so important
Never impede on this "home away from home" have respect for however they like to organize the space (as long as you can close the door haha)

[via] [via]

3) “Simple gratitude goes a long way"

Whether tasks are "assigned" to a particular individual or not - showing appreciation for the completion of household chores is essential
Put simply: we are all human / no one enjoys household chores / we all enjoy recognition for our efforts

4) “Systems are key"

Just like an organization has systems, your home deserves the same respect
Everything needs to have a place, rules need to be set and duties need to be clear and fair
Taking turns is also a great way to even the household responsibilities

[via]

5) "Men will never remember where the melon baller goes"

Their brains are wired differently - they don't care what dish goes with what, where the doodah goes, colour coding etc.
On one hand, don't do it for them... but .. on the other, don't get aggravated when they ask you for the millionth time - they can't help it.

[via]

6) And last but not least - "Be aware of the elephant in the room"

Address issues like adults, remember your systems and be respectful of each other
Realize when someone is exhausted or having a bad day and treat them nicely- household surprises are always so appreciated like cooking a special dinner or cleaning the entire kitchen on their own .

Technorati Tags: sharing,space,tips,organization,man cave,escape,elephant in the room,men,women

[humpback wednesday]

2011-03-02T07:01:00.001-05:00

Along with everyone else out there- I am rushing spring along!

Ry’s parents just returned back from their trip to Puerto Vallarta and showed us some of their photos. They chartered a snorkelling boat out and had the surprise of a lifetime: followers of the grand variety- Beautiful Humpback Whales. These photos are fitting for “hump” day and will hopefully help get you through the rest of the week.

The Humpback Whales are at the end of mating season and are heading back with their new babies… Precious:

Humpback Whale calf coming up for air with mum beside

[via]

Gracefully gliding in pairs

[via]

Then one jumped up for a fabulous shot… kidding [but amazing! ]

[via]

Drift away to Puerto Vallarta today…

[via]

[dabble mag launch]

2011-03-01T06:37:00.001-05:00

I just read the new Dabble Mag from the ultra-fabulous Kimberley Seldon. Her newest project combines lifestyle topics [design, travel, food] with beautiful images and unique content to create 180 pages of pure design BLISS! Bonus- it’s complimentary.

If you haven’t read it yet- be sure to check out its brand new digital launch at www.dabblemag.com and the first issue here.

These fabulous pages caught my eye:

The fun dabble team!

[via]

Designer Market product features

[via]

Unique home tours & fabulous design shots

[via]

“DIY Guy” feature

[via]

“Make you jealous” travel features

[via]

Scrumptious tips, trick & recipes

[via]

Congratulations on the launch Kimberley! Wishing you all the best with your new adventure and can’t wait to see all the future issues.

Technorati Tags: dabble,magazine,mag,Kimberley,Seldon,lifestyle,travel,design,food,launch

[lilypad love]

2011-02-28T08:35:00.001-05:00

I thought I’d share a photo from our trip to Hawaii during the holidays! Floating lily pads and goldfish always cheer me up! Here’s hoping the snow melts fast and spring hurries itself up! Happy Monday – I am already looking forward to the weekend…

[via]

Friday night we headed over to Yamato in Yorkville for dinner- it was fabulous! For a reasonable price we enjoyed two hours of “eatertainment” in front of a grill and indulged in a great meal- thanks to our chef Romeo! Hope everyone’s weekend was relaxing or entertaining at least.

[via]

I also bought myself a little treat for spring from Modcloth : ) for $21.99

The Dinner at 8 Dress – “The quiche is in the oven, the apartment has been thoroughly tidied, there are freshly cut flowers on the table, and pleasant, indistinct music is playing on the stereo. You just have one more task to complete before your guests arrive for dinner - getting dressed!”

I just love the zippered back detail- Casual or fancy depending on shoe choice!

Technorati Tags: monday,spring,yamato,dinner,modcloth,dress,lilypad,love

[loft sweet loft]

2011-02-24T16:49:00.001-05:00

I have been hesitant to showcase our place; making up excuses that I should get a few things done before I do… well I realize that “to-do” list will always be there! Bear in mind: with our first place came lots of “family donations”, ikea trips, thrift store/side of road finds and whatever we could afford!

I am going to be brave and showcase our loft – one space at a time- 5 spaces. This will help me to focus in on the things I’d like to change, create a master to-do list, dream about quality furnishings and feel at ease with the whole process. Our loft is tight on space at just under 700 sq. ft and boy are we outgrowing it [we’re really thankful for a locker on the same floor]! I foolishly forgot to take before photos of the space (pre-furniture) but I do have the MLS photos I can compare to the previous tenants- who weren’t actually living in the space.

[the “living” space]
This space plays host to tv watching, relaxing, working and dining all at once. With an open concept space comes multi-function furniture pieces and a not-so-cohesive placement of furniture. We make do- which comes at a cost for my dear Ry who uses the coffee table as his home office [he doesn’t complain but dreams of a man-cave of his own some day soon].

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

The living space:
This wall has been measured and is ready for a finalized quote for a new brick wall feature in between the column and the wall edge before the window. At the Interior Design Show (and in part of my top 5 features post from the show) I learned about a company called Century Architexture and have figured it will cost us around $1000 for the brick and installation. We will wait and see.

[via]

A few units above us had it done (not sure which company it was done by) – doesn’t it look fabulous?

[via]

The living space:

The dining space:

The work space:

To- Do List [to make me feel better]

We need an Area Rug!!!!! This has been a serious battle- I found a gorgeous one on clearance ($350 from $750) at Crate and Barrel – I think I shocked Ry with the price and he shut down- we were not spending that money- until he realized how expensive a good rug is! So back to the drawing board.
Brick wall installation- in progress [a reality! very exciting]
A backing for the TV unit to hide all those hideous wires~! Any ideas?
Reupholster the white guest chair to a fun fabric!
Patch the gaping holes above the windows from the previous tenants hanging bookshelves.
I dream for new couches- I am very thankful for the ones we have but they were given to us from family and I would love a non-leather set [something that doesn't stick to you in the summer or too slippery for accent pillows

Other than that- the list could go on but we’ll live! I would love to hear any thoughts or ideas! I will be sharing each space with bravery haha.

Technorati Tags: living room,brick wall,industrial,loft,to-do list,design

[valentine’s / old stuff]

2011-02-15T08:13:00.001-05:00

I have been seriously bogged down with school work hence the lack in posts- I cannot wait for freedom next week when we get to spend five days at the cottage! Considering Ryan’s parents are going away to Mexico for Family Day and my family can’t make it up to join us- I have invited my “second” family up to the cottage- my childhood best friend and her family are all coming up for a fabulous weekend~ : ) All nine of us!

Happy Valentine’s to anyone who agrees! & Read below for anyone who doesn’t:

[via]

Summary - How I spent my Valentines:

[via]

At the cottage / Baking the most delicious cookies / Beautifully cooked meal courtesy of Chef Ryan

.:.

When were in town at the Cottage- I popped in the local “Antique” Store- more like Retro Home Outfitters- I did still manage to round up two finds:

One for the cottage bedroom:

All Cedar ship for $15.00

One for our home bedroom:

Old wooden “you know the deal” crate $20.00

[via]

.:.

I also WON something finally haha- I won the fabulous “I *Heart* You” print from Brittany at My Daily Randomness from her print line Pink Peacock Paperie. Perfect V-day gift to myself.

[via]

I can’t wait to add it to our gallery wall we are planning for the wall! Thanks Britt!

I feel almost sane with the amount of work remaining but I should be back in tip-top shape next week!

Have a fabulous week!

[blackboard d.i.y]

2011-02-10T06:53:00.001-05:00

I thought I would share one of my recent DIY’s that I still can’t get over how much I love!

Shortly after we moved in we headed up to the cottage and I begged my boyfriend to go garage sailing- he was not so into it- but luckily we did.

I think I have eagle eyes when it comes to potential products! Against a tree sat a beautiful gold antique wooden frame with no backing, no photo, no price? Ugh- one part I’m not too keen on is bargaining- but hey for $5.00 I didn’t even bargain, I paid and moved quickly back to the car like the Ikea commercials. This frame is huge!

[sneak peek]

With the $5.00 frame in hand I headed to the hardware store:

-Thin smooth wood [cut to the exact size of the frame] I used mahogany plywood $8.00

-Chalkboard paint [spray can is probably best for the smoothest look] $7.00

-Chalk $1.00

Total Cost: $21.00

*I wouldn’t bother with magnetic paint- I did like ten million coats and it would barely hold paper!

Beautiful ornate frame + Thin smooth plywood + Chalkboard Paint

[via] [via] [via]

The result:

[via]

I wrote one of my favourite lyrics <3 of course as my to-do list is not so pretty.

Hope today is fabulous for everyone!

Technorati Tags: DIY,chalkboard,frame,paint,wood

[spicy pizze]

2011-02-08T07:14:00.001-05:00

This recipe comes inspired by my favourite Italian restaurant in Toronto- Terroni’s! Everytime I order pizza there I get the same one- The Don Corrado- a white pizza with thinly sliced potatoes, olive oil, rosemary and spicy sausage.

I have made my own version of this pizza several times [it is well tested]:

<3 Staring with pizza dough I knead it and let stand for some time to rise [about half an hour] & then stretch it over a pizza tray or stone]

<3 Gather these ingredients:

-Thinly sliced potatoes [enough to cover pizza- about half a potato]

-Basil Pesto Garlic Pasta Sauce [I recommend Classico brand]

-Hot Italian sausage [remove from casings & cook 3/4 of the way through- one pack makes enough for two pizzas]

-Mozzarella cheese [shredded]

<3 Start by spreading the basil pesto sauce evenly over the bottom of the pizza [covering most white spots]

<3 Layer the thin slices of potato next, followed by the Italian Sausage & then mozzarella cheese

<3 Bake at 350^ountil golden brown. Yum!

Recipe:

            1 pizza dough [split in half, kneaded and let stand to rise]

            1/2 a potato [thinly sliced]

            1/2 jar Basil Pesto Garlic Pasta Sauce [I recommend Classico brand]

            1/2 package Hot Italian sausage [remove from casings & cook 3/4 of the way through]

            Mozzarella cheese [shredded- enough to cover]

Stretch the pizza dough over the tray or stone. Start by spreading the basil pesto sauce evenly over the bottom of the pizza [covering most white spots].Layer the thin slices of potato next, followed by the Italian sausage & then mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350^ountil golden brown.

Technorati Tags: recipe,pizza,Terroni,yum,Italian

[unframed ork]

2011-02-04T22:14:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to hanging my Toronto Ork poster that I must have purchased several months ago- it sat rolled up in the same package it came in! I couldn’t easily find a frame and tried to find a unique way to hang it… I found several different options but none that I loved!

Then I got some inspiration one night when I couldn’t sleep and was staring at the blank slate at the end of our bed.

Here is our wall prior to the installation and in progress:

We purchased two Spontan magnetic metal boards in white from Ikea at only $14.99 each!!! And Voila!

[via]

I purchased eight round silvery disk magnets from Canadian Tire and piled two atop each other for added detail.

Finally is all I can say! Have a fabulous weekend all!

[valentine love]

2011-02-04T16:01:00.001-05:00

On a budget- I am always looking to do things myself and homemade decorations are always a great way to save unnecessary spending!

Check out this adorable way to spread Valentine’s cheer for free [or a buck at the local thrift store]:

Scrabble messages are just so darn cute!

[via]

I stumbled upon a couple other low cost options for adding some love in the air! Martha Stewart is always reliable in providing great inspiration and crafts.

Candy flowers anyone? Isn’t this just the best way to really capture the spirit of Valentine’s day- as long as your little ones don’t eat the display! This involves placing a smaller vase inside to keep the flowers alive [or use faux- we won’t know]. The beautiful tulips and parrot tulips are always so unique looking. The tutorial is available here.

[via]

How about homemade fortune cookies for your loved ones with secret messages? Or if you’re not the baking type- try this great gift topper, considering it’s made from felt. This quick and easy craft is sure to make someone smile- the consensus seems to be to use hot glue instead of craft glue.

[via] [via]

Or if you are looking to adorn yourself- check out this cute felt scarf- not couture or anything but i would think it says you’re a good sport and festive hah.

I’ll leave you with some eye candy mmm. I can’t wait to see his new movie Blue Valentine

– <3 Ryan Gosling

[via]

Hope this post got you in the spirit- I would love to see other unique and budget friendly Valentine’s Day Crafts- especially that have to do with fabric since I have some fabulous red fabric samples hanging around!

Technorati Tags: Valentines,Crafts,Martha Stewart,Ryan Gosling,Blue Valentine,Fortune Cookies,Design,felt,tulips,heart

[winter blah blah]

2011-02-02T14:26:00.001-05:00

With this big “Snow Storm” holding Toronto indoors [big joke- but I am loving it] – I thought it would be nice to escape this season and start looking forward to the spring! Considering our trusted Groundhog - Wiarton Willie’s forecast of early spring- let’s start looking ahead to flip flops and fresh tulip bulbs!

This week I “splurged” outside of the grocery budget and bought some beautiful fresh cut tulips [gold & cream mmm] to brighten up our loft! I couldn’t believe what a difference this small addition made to the usual winter grind.

So I started to think of other ways to put the “Winter Blahs” behind us:

<3 Fresh-cut flowers make a girl smile & brighten up a room for less!

[via]

Fresh cut flowers or fresh-air plants can really lift the mood of your home. Fresh air plants will actually improve the air quality in your space and look beautiful at the same time! According to Treehugger & NASA here is the list of fresh air plants:

English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Golden pothos or Devil's ivy (Scindapsus aures or Epipremnum aureum)
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum 'Mauna Loa')
Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)
Bamboo palm or reed palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
Snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii')
Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron oxycardium, syn. Philodendron cordatum)
Selloum philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum, syn. Philodendron selloum)
Elephant ear philodendron (Philodendron domesticum)
Red-edged dracaena (Dracaena marginata)
Cornstalk dracaena (Dracaena fragans 'Massangeana')
Janet Craig dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig')
Warneck dracaena (Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii')
Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
Gerbera Daisy or Barberton daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
Pot Mum or Florist's Chrysanthemum (Chrysantheium morifolium)
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

<3 Making sure to pack up all the holiday reminders does a lot of good!

The holidays are clearly over and it’s time to change up the bright colours! Adding new colourful accessories also help to add cheer to your home. Hey at least we have Valentine’s Day to look forward to!

[via]

Check out all these great accessories from Crate and Barrel- A great way to bring spring fever into your home!

<3 Staying indoors is also a great time to get organized. Finally cleaning out your closets!

Checking out all the inspiration from fellow bloggers like 10 Rooms and her initiative; The Great Clean Out – I think this is essential to simplify your spaces, de-clutter and make your home feel fresh again!

<3 Best of all- Take a “ME” day and enjoy the benefits of staying warm!

- Read your favourite book by yourself for even just an hour [my latest was Secret Daughter- great read]

-Brew a delicious cup of tea [my personal favourite is Forever Nuts from David’s Tea which turns pink once steeped and has a beautiful aroma]

-Draw a big bad bubble bath!

[via]

Technorati Tags: Winter,blahs,accessories,spring,valentine's,colours,snow,storm,Toronto,tulips,Wiarton Willie,book,plants,fresh cut flowers

[Interesting.Design.Stuff 11]

2011-01-29T14:08:00.001-05:00

Or the Interior Design Show as they officially call it haha! Wow what a great way to start off the year! I had such an amazing time at the show and I can’t wait to make an annual appearance. I just wanted to share my top five personal highlights of the show! I also had a chance to visit the come up to my room event which I will be sharing shortly!

Highlight # 1)

Meeting the lovely Tommy Smythe & Sarah Richardson… Need I say more… I love their influential and refreshing designs and of course Sarah & Theo’s amazing Sibling Rivalry room! My personal taste led me to vote the R & R room as the best in show!

[via]

What kind and patient people to welcome photographs and conversation! Thank you for making my year! The R & R Sibling Rivalry suite featured amazing colour combinations, local art, and antique accessories! I thought theirs had the best layout and really felt like a unified space. I knew I would love this one the best anyhow - who am I kidding.

[via]

The space featured a dining room, living room, office, and bedroom! Again, I can’t stress enough how great the colour combinations were – each paired with white beautifully.

[via]

Highlight # 2) Wood; recycled, refinished, reclaimed, rustic, re-whatever! It was there!

1) HOLTZ Furniture – Specializing in organic furniture art – this company is sure to maintain the true nature of wood! All pieces are also available to your custom needs at www.holtzfurniture.com

2) ALX - The sheer beauty of raw wood, innovative design and industrial finishes are brought together for dramatic results- ALX have beautiful products from benches and entertainment units to custom sliding barn doors! Their website will be launching February 3, 2011- so stay tuned and be sure to visit www.alxraw.com to view their amazing work. Custom products are also available.

3) CABINET – This fabulous piece is part of The Historic Collection – reclaimed from Whisky barrel racks and in limited production! If I had $1975 – this would be a cherished piece in my loft! Visit their website at www.cabinetfurniture.ca for a look at all the rest!

Highlight # 3)

The IKEA Booth! Of course this booth really stole the show and I shouldn’t have been surprised!IKEA has really stepped up its game and of course I love their prices! The dark finishes & accents were paired wonderfully with warm browns and soft pink lighting! It was a delight

[via]

Highlight # 4)

The Dinner by Design booth in support of the Casey House – It is really incredible that designers came together to each design the iconic chair to be auctioned off at the Vitra Panton Chair Auction! 20 designers & architects came together – each with their unique flair – proceeds were donated to the Casey House, Toronto’s HIV/AIDS specialty hospital. Visit www.caseyhouse.com to make a donation today!

[via]

Highlight # 5)

I finally found a Canadian company that produces faux “authentic brick” in two different styles. Let me tell you – We had such difficulty finding this product a few months back – Our industrial loft is in serious need of some added character. Century Architexture has come to the rescue! Their product is made from thin pre-engineered brick wall panels and is very convincing. It is currently sold in two collections (The Century Collection & The Distillery Collection) and in four varieties each. I am in love with the Century Red variety from the Century Collection Definitely check out their collection and website for their portfolio, pricing, benefits and more at www.centuryarchitexture.com !

[via]

Thank you IDS and all the great exhibitor’s for making one amazing show! All my girlfriends and I had an amazing time and will be back every year! Cheers!

Technorati Tags: IDS,Interior,Design,Sarah Richardson,Tommy Smythe,Wood,reclaimed,rustic,HOLTZ,furniture,ALX,Cabinet,IKEA,Casey House. Century Architexture

[ pre- IDS]

2011-01-27T20:32:00.001-05:00

Twas the night before trade day at the Interior Design Show! All the designers were a stirring! I am so excited to absorb everything tomorrow morning!

I came across a Humber Grad from the Industrial Design program who has hit it big! I feel proud to be from Humber at the moment! Anyhow- her furniture line will be a big feature at the Interior Design Show and I can’t wait for one specific piece.. that brings concrete and cabinetry together!

Jean Willoughby is her name!

[via]

My obsession with industrial pieces has led me to fall in love with this piece! Concrete meets reclaimed wood? umm yes please! It would fit right in with our industrial loft and polished concrete floors. Let’s get up close and personal with this beauty…

[via]

There are many more “beautys” if you’re curious – I found through her website: www.jeanwilloughby.com – Just a sneak peak – I can’t wait to see her furniture and of course all the rest the IDS has to offer! Can’t wait to meet everyone at the show too!

[via]

[design love]

2011-01-23T13:15:00.001-05:00

When asked to determine five physical things I love about design… I had a very hard time narrowing my responses. In short, these five choices make the list (in no particular order).

1) Industrial Lofts

Not only do I love living in my own Industrial Loft, but I am fascinated with the concept. Rustic industrial site turned fabulous residential space!

Key Contributors:

Exposed brick
Exposed ceiling beams and pipes
Refinished flooring or polished concrete

2) Architectural Detail

Key Contributors:

Character
Reference to Era
Story behind craftsmanship

3) Reclaimed Furniture

Key Contributors:

Recycled materials
Unique features
The concept of making furniture from reclaimed wood, telephone polls, wine corks, industrial remnants and endless possibilities.

4) High Ceilings

Key Contributors:

Open Space
Drama
Interest

5) Innovative Design

Key Contributors:

Self explanatory

This list serves as my personal influence in design and I hope to inspire others to create their own list of design loves~!

Technorati Tags: design,love,industrial,lofts,brick,ceilings,reclaimed,furniture,architectural,detail,innovative

[the blog]

2011-01-23T00:03:00.000-05:00

All I can say is finally! I have so admired all the fabulous blogs within the design world. I have finally got around to the beginning of sharing my stories and design inspiration.

Let’s just say I’m a “twenty-something” design student finding my way in the big city [Toronto].

After obtaining my BComm from McMaster University – or realistically during the entire span of my University career – I had a scary thought: I’m not ready for the working world because I have no idea where I want my career to head. After a long thought process and much deliberation – I realized I must follow my life long passion… Interior De…

Another roadblock… What title was right for me? Interior Design or Interior Decorating? Long story short (and another post) – I am now in my second term of Interior Decorating at Humber College. I made all the right decisions in getting here and I am loving every moment of this school. The best part – I finally see myself being happy in my career choice

– wherever it takes me.

I have also made a major decision in my life this past year- My boyfriend Ryan and I have bought our first place- an Industrial Loft.

It’s official: I love this city, I love my boyfriend and most relevant to this blog- I love decorating!

I leave you with one of my favourite quotes -

“I am unwritten, can't read my mind, I'm undefined... I'm just beginning, the pen's in my hand, ending unplanned...The rest is still unwritten.” – Natasha Bedingfield