Yeah...Ok...Bye

Calligraphy Tattoos

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000Z

One of the most viewed posts on Yeah...Ok...Bye is this one, showing the awesome work of Betsy Dunlap commissioned as tattoos. I recently came across these gorgeous calligraphy tattoos by Mara Zepeda of Neither Snow. I doubt I'd ever be brave enough to get one but if I did I'd hope it would look as beautiful as these.

images from Neither Snow

Mixing it up

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000Z

This home is very close to mine...geographically. If only it was close to looking like mine...
A veritable feast of styles and influences placed side by side resulting in a very stylish and comfortable family home. The contemporary, spine-like staircase and extension with circular glazed door leading to the garden has a grown up, art deco feel. It contrasts, beautifully, with the original Georgian building which, again, contrasts with the eclectic mix of mid century classics, far east artefacts and an abundance of art, photography and sculpture inside. The perfect example of letting your home evolve with you as you collect the things you love. Perfect.

Images from Location Scotland

Handwritten Poem

2012-01-20T12:34:00.000Z

This brilliant poem by Bee Rawlinson is my latest handwriting commission. It's a funny one!...an ideal reading for a relaxed wedding...

Images taken and edited by me.

Thinking of Sunshine...

2012-01-18T14:07:00.000Z

In a few weeks we're taking a trip. A trip to the other side of the world. A trip to a place where, right now, it's summer. We are, to say the least, excited. So here's a little summer balminess in the form of a spring/summer 2012 sneak peek from b.young. It's going to be a bright summer...oranges and pinks all over the place! Which is just as well because apparently 'Tangerine Tango' is Pantone's colour of the year!

We are not too excited, however, about travelling for 24 hours with an 8 month old baby who loves his routine and will be between nutritional stages...any tips will be gratefully received!

Small but perfectly formed...

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000Z

Now this, is 'good design'. Seeing well thought-out compact spaces makes my day. My admiration for those dedicated to living such an organised life knows no limits. Their combined collection of clothes and shoes cannot possibly be in those skinny bedside wardrobes?! Maybe she doesn't have shoes...that's it! The secret is...no shoes!! I am in awe.

Via Couch

Bedroom Envy III...

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000Z

White, with cosy textures, retro details...and a view...

via

The Merchant Hotel Spa

2012-01-12T11:17:00.000Z

I was lucky enough to join a brilliant design team that specialized in Spa design and consultancy when I finished college. The new spa at The Merchant Hotel in Belfast was one of the projects I was involved in for the initial design stages before I moved on. It's been completed for a couple of years now but it's great to see how the design developed and the compromises that were made along the way. I love the sexy graphics used on the shower doors in the treatment rooms and throughout! Very tempted to book a relaxing weekend in Belfast now...

Images from The Merchant Hotel

Zelliges

2012-01-11T10:00:00.000Z

These tiles rock my world.
Little iridescent squares of irregular, enamelled lovliness handmade in Fez, Morocco. They're available in the prettiest of colours. Tiles like these shouldn't be limited to the kitchen or bathroom; a rich colour makes a statement fire surround or use a pearly shade for a delicate feature in the bedroom...or all of the above!

available from here. Images from here and here

Love

2012-01-09T09:22:00.000Z

A handwriting comission from a year and a half ago. Time flies.

Photography by me

Scandi Lovin'

2012-01-02T09:30:00.000Z

At the risk of this blog becoming saturated in Scandinavian interiors, I give you...another one. This time last year we were in Copenhagen, visiting friends. A trip, that sadly, I never got round to blogging about. Maybe I'll skim through the millions of photographs and cobble something together soon. Maybe, that should go on my ever extending 'new years resolution'/'to do' list!
In the meantime check out this black and white home in Falun, Sweden (not Copenhagen). I'd trade my first born* for those globe pendants over the dining table...and the industrial, yellow drinks trolley...well, maybe not but I like them a lot..
*not, in any way, legally binding.

source

First Christmas...

2011-12-30T22:42:00.000Z

I hope everyone enjoyed Christmas and managed to relax and enjoy some time off.
We received some gorgeous decorations for the tree, from family and friends, for Sebastian's 1st Christmas...which was lovely! They will, of course, now be annual fixtures on our family tree. Can you tell which ones were sent from Australia?

...Enjoy your Hogmanay celebrations and I'll see you in the new year! x

Love from Lebanon

2011-12-08T17:40:00.001Z

Beirut design company, Bokja is made up of Hoda Baroudi and Maria Hibri. A passion for classic furniture and textiles from countries along The Silk Road results in these beauties! Although the company has existed since 2000, I first came across them in Merci, on our trip to Paris last year. I'm a sucker for a modern classic but in these patterned woven fabrics?...yes please!

images are from here and here

Late

2011-12-06T22:25:00.001Z

Those who know me, know my incessant inability to be anywhere on time. The consequences were worse for the unicorns...

Via here
UPDATE: I found the source...if you'd like to buy this or view the other very funny cards available visit Sapling Press on Etsy

Primrose Hill Drawing Room

2011-12-02T09:34:00.000Z

As promised in yesterday's post, here's one of my favourite interior projects by Retrouvius. It may only be one room but the textures are never ending. Raw concrete, irridescent tiles, grey painted floorboards, velvety upholstery and neon accents. Cold, but oh so hot!

Oh, and I'll be needing that chair...thanks.
Images from Retrouvius

Retrouvius

2011-12-01T11:00:00.000Z

Retrouvius are a London based architectural salvage and design company. Their work is clever, inspiring and beautiful not to mention, sustainable. The other night I spent so long looking at the design projects and salvage items for sale, on their website, that my tea went cold.
Using reclaimed flooring as wall panelling is evidently a favourite and recurring method for them, and features in many of their projects. Here are a few awesome examples. Rustic versus polished; different finishes can give very different (but equally beautiful) effects.

Tomorrow's post is one of my favourite interiors from their recent projects.
images

Sparrow & Co.

2011-11-30T11:00:00.000Z

Being from Glasgow, I jump at the chance to showcase home-grown talent so, say hello to Sparrow & Co. who opened their online doors to the public yesterday.
With just one visit you'll be ready for winter; mustards and greys, textures, patterns and scents. Done.
It's just the beginning so bookmark it and keep popping back to see new arrivals...I will be...

Sparrow & Co. via @IgorJosif

My Kitchen

2011-11-28T10:00:00.000Z

We got a new kitchen fitted about five years ago. We had the tile splashback applied in July of this year. It's easier to make quick decisions, as an interior designer, when there's a deadline and you're spending someone else's money. When it comes to my own home, little decisions take approximately five years, evidently. It doesn't help that I'm a Libran. Anyway, I love the result. Here's a sneaky peek...

Photography by me

Black & White

2011-11-25T11:00:00.000Z

This monochrome combination is a classic. Here are a few bits and pieces to add to that Santa memo. Unless, of course, you've been bad this year...

1. Marimekko for Converse 2. Lee Broom's stag to be auctioned for homeless charity Centrepoint 3. 'I Love The Shit Out Of You' print 4. La Sardinia camera Domino 5. Strap mirror 6. Herribone cushion 7. Arne Jacobsen cups 8. Tuxedo onesie 9. Anna Black carpet

Ochre Lovliness

2011-11-23T15:30:00.001Z

I don't think there's anything I don't like from Ochre...and in September they brought new nuggets of pretty to the market.

Yes, please. That's all.
Images from Ochre

Naked Nursery

2011-11-22T12:00:00.000Z

When I was pregnant I wanted the baby's nursery to look something like this.

I still LOVE this look but now that Sebastian is 4 months old, his response to bright colours is incredible (and exciting considering his daddy is colourblind!). So far his nursery is still a work in progress...not that he even notices...and we are slowly collecting colourful bits and pieces, including these, and this to add to the pale gray walls we finished just days before he arrived (we're fly-by-the-seat-our-pants types). I'm so looking forward to the day it's done...if it ever is...
P.S. Still want the white rocking sheep!
Images from Smallable Christmas catalogue

Francis Cadell

2011-11-21T09:30:00.000Z

Edinburgh artist Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell was quite a character. He had a great sense of humour, was confident, flamboyant and charming, and had a great many friends who adored him. He was homosexual, at a time when it was illegal, and lived life to the full, spending outwith his means and socialising with high society. When times were tough his paintings paid for a roof over his head.
He painted landscapes (most famously of Iona, where he spent a lot of time), portraits, still lifes and my favourites of his works, grand interior spaces. I find it hard to believe that his paintings of the interior rooms in his George Street studio (my favourite; below) and Edinburgh Newtown townhouses were painted in the early 1920s. Some of the interiors look contemporary even by today's standards. He was fascinated with reflective surfaces, carefully placed objects, and liked the composition of a room beyond a room through open doorways.

Last Thursday my parents were invited to a private viewing of the exhibition at The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, with Alice Strang, the author of F.C.B. Cadell; an emalgamation of all the research undertaken for the exhibition. Sebastian and I tagged along. It was fascinating.
The exhibition is Cadell's first solo show since his death in 1937. I recommend you go along and have a look. It's on till March 18th 2012.
image via here

Bathroom Envy

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000Z

...where else would you keep your filing cabinet?

scanned from Living Etc. October 2011

Unlikely pairings and bold classics...

2011-11-16T10:30:00.000Z

...at Reiss.

...LOVE the neutrals with a splash of bold colour...could you pull it off?

Colour with Grey

2011-11-14T22:04:00.001Z

No doubt you all saw The Selby's visit to Abigail Ahern's fabulous home a few of weeks ago. Well, I thought I'd post a few pictures of her sister Gemma's pad; obviously with a little influence from Abigail...unless the love of dark walls and splashes of acid colour is genetic...which it may well be.

Could you be bold enough to plunge into a world of grey ?
images from here

Home to Roost

2011-11-07T11:00:00.000Z

I was introduced to this incredible food blog last week via A Cup of Jo. Coco from Roost takes the most beautiful photographs of the specially adapted food she creates for her and her husband, who suffers from Crohn's disease. As I got closer and closer to licking my monitor whilst browsing through the images, I came across these photos of the couple's gorgeous new home in Alabama and had to share them with you...

I recommend you make yourself a cuppa and have a browse through the photos and recipes...you may be some time.
All images from Roost

Bah Humbug

2011-11-05T10:02:00.001Z

That's right...two brown leather (again) bags in one post! Lucky you...

Humbug tote and clutch from Kurt Geiger

Me and Mrs Jones

2011-11-01T10:50:00.000Z

Another gem I came across at the Homes & Interiors Scotland Exhibition last Friday was Glasgow based, Niki Jones. These kantha quilts are made from the most beautiful vintage saris. These photographs don't even do them justice...in the flesh the colours are vibrant and the cotton super soft and lightweight yet snug. The only reason I don't own one yet is because I'd have to decide which to go for and my Libra brain can't take the pressure...

...the cushions and rugs are pretty special too.

see the Autumn/Winter 2011 catalogue here

West End Wonder

2011-10-31T09:30:00.000Z

Check out this hallway. It's the grand entrance to a flat in Kelvingrove in the West End of Glasgow.
I came across the designers on Friday when Sebastian and I took a mooch around the Homes & Interiors Scotland exhibition in the SECC. Rehab's two interior showcases were among some little nuggets of tremendousnes at the exhibition. This hallway doesn't even represent their true style (new and retro furniture restyled & upholstered in awesome colours and fabrics), I just love the architrave detail.

Don't you think that when a space is dressed with a pair of matching table lamps it immediately looks 'grown up'...?
the pics are from here

Blue Hues

2011-10-28T09:00:00.000+01:00

One long space. Sleeping space-bookshelf partition-living space-glass paned partition-work space. Combine that concept with funky furniture, beautiful blue hues and some traditional architectural features and you have a pretty perfect pad.

Not sure how much work I'd get done with that slightly distracting canvas on the wall...hello.
From Elle Decor Espana

Cacti

2011-10-27T13:04:00.001+01:00

Every time I visit iiiinspired I click on this post and stare...what a space!

I once heard that, according to feng shui, cacti in your home, can cause jaggy arguments...I wonder how their chi is...

via iiiinspired

Wary Mears Wares

2011-10-26T07:55:00.000+01:00

I've blogged about this creative couple before. Wary Mears are an upcycling phenomenon! Their projects are pretty awesome...
If you happen to find an old canoe or an Eames chair in a skip, why not give it a wee spruce up with a pattern, hand painted on, inspired by British textile designer, Celia Birtwell?
'Naturally', I hear you say...

...whatever you do to them you probably wouldn't expect them to look as cool as this...and you'd probably never think to hang them from the ceiling in you Portland apartment...well, I wouldn't anyway.
Found on Wary Mears' blog

Toasty

2011-10-24T12:30:00.000+01:00

You'd expect to see warm cosy images in catalogues come the Autumn but I love the cool palette in the Autumn/Winter 2011 Home collection from Toast. It seems mild mustard yellows, fetching frosty greys and cool teal blues are where it's at...

Check out the rest of the catalogue here

All wrapped up...

2011-10-14T10:00:00.000+01:00

...with it's own bow!
It's my birthday next week. Just saying...

Kate Spade's Bow Bridge Kennedy Bag

Bold, Busy and Beautiful

2011-10-11T21:57:00.000+01:00

This space may have light, colour, furniture, and pattern in abundance, but the architecture makes it...I'm a sucker for symmetry.

by Edward Duarte

Amanda Wakeley Bridal

2011-10-03T22:41:00.002+01:00

After falling in love with 'Look 3' of the Desert collection when I was on the hunt for my wedding dress, I always like to keep an eye on Amanda Wakeley's Bridal collection. The latest is 'Morocco' and it's gorgeeeooouuussss...

$12,000,000

2011-09-28T10:26:00.000+01:00

Ok...so you may have noticed that I quite like having a look at how, and where, the rich and famous live. Here's Julianne Moore's New York apartment whch, according to Spanish Elle Decor of March 2011, is on the market for a cool $12million. Bargain! I'll take two.

Cate James

2011-09-26T09:30:00.000+01:00

The lovely Cate James is a printmaker and illustrator based in Edinburgh. Last year she set herself a little project of (read: became slightly obsessed with) drawing the 'beautiful' faces of the guests on the popular daytime TV show, Jeremy Kyle.
Having just become a mother, and having been freelance for the last couple of years, I have to shamefully, admit to having become quite familiar with the show. For those of you who are not, it may help to know that I have to actively avoid it, regularly, as I feel myself losing all faith in human existense and becoming convinced that everyone in the world needs a DNA and lie detector test.
I love Cate's illustrations of the 'colourful' characters who grace Jeremy's stage. I can see how drawing them would get addictive. She has more than 6 sketch books full of them! Wouldn't they make an excellent exhibition?

You can see more of these gorgeous faces on Cate's blog. Cate is currently working on the illustrations for a new series of children's books along with many other projects on the run up to Christmas...keep a look out for her work at Paper Tiger stores.
Illustrations by Cate James

DollyLeo

2011-09-15T00:17:00.000+01:00

The beginning of this year saw the end of an awesome shop on my little high street. I have posted about DollyLeo before. It was opened by Sadie Jean Sloss, a very talented make up artist, who, after a busy and succesful few years, building the brand and online shop, has taken a massive leap and upped sticks to New York City. As the online shop was so successful, Sadie made the difficult decision to continue with that but cut some ties and, sadly, close the shop in Stockbridge, Edinburgh.
The interior was was an ecclectic mix of upcycled furniture, funky lights, dark grey walls, a purple painted floor and some bold wallpaper. It all came together to create a great little space which was unlike any other in the area and perhaps, Edinburgh. The products she sourced were mostly exclusive to DollyLeo and included, the all organic Dr. Alkaitis skincare and the amazing Ellis Faas make up range, among many others.

DollyLeo Apothecary and Sadie are missed around these parts, but at least you can still get all the goodies here.

Kitchen Envy II

2011-09-09T09:00:00.000+01:00

and...it's in Paris...hmph.

photography by Jean-Marc Wullschleger via Vart Nya Hem

Brutalist Seating

2011-09-07T09:00:00.000+01:00

This sofa is described as 'brutalist'. I can't decide if I like it...the garish red velvetine, the floating gap base, the gaudy metal detail...I don't think it would deal with dog hair and baby puke very well, but it's pretty awesome...and brutal.

available from Talisman London

Aikwood Tower

2011-09-05T03:30:00.000+01:00

Whilst I was off growing a baby, I was also working on a very exciting refurb project in the Scottish Borders. Aikwood is a 16th century tower about 40 miles south of Edinburgh, deep in the beautiful Ettrick Valley. With many an outdoor pursuit on its doorstep, my client felt the 5 bedroom tower was in the perfect location to be transformed into an luxurious exclusive-use holiday let and wedding venue. His parents had lovingly restored the tower from a ruin into their home in the late 80's and were now ready to to pass it on to the next generation.
We had three months to turn it around so it was intense and stressful but pretty exciting and everyone was more than happy with the result. I'm pretty proud of it, even if I do say so myself...

We sourced local tweed from Andrew Elliot and Hinnigan (who also made the gorgeous cushions and throws) and scoured antique markets from London to Glasgow, and everywhere in between, to source key feature pieces, furniture and lamps that sit comfortably next to the brand new bespoke items. After many doubts, lots of persiverence, a little convincing, plenty of elbow grease, not to mention the searching, sourcing and shopping, it all came together in the end. What do you think?
P.S. It looks even better in the flesh...so go ahead and book a long weekend of luxury...
Photography by Douglas Robertson

The Colour of Couture

2011-08-31T11:45:00.000+01:00

I suppose you wouldn't expect Matthew Williamson's home to be any less colourful but......does a fashion designer's home influence their collection or vice versa?
Matthew Williamson at home via here
Matthew Williamson Autumn/Winter 2011 via here

Oh my...

2011-08-30T12:09:00.004+01:00

...what is the collective noun for dreamy leather (Hermes or other) luggage anyway...?
via Nick Wooster

Bedroom Envy II

2011-08-29T09:31:00.002+01:00

The best thing about this bedroom could be the juxtoposition of architectural details with contemporary furnishings; the awesome screen behind the bed; the tumbling, oversized, white silk curtains; the elegant, retro furniture; or just that it looks so clean and fresh you almost don't even notice that the walls are painted blue and not white......all these things could be the best thing about this bedroom but the best thing about this bedroom is actually the fact that you get this house with it...If you like this you should see the living room and the rest of this Salzberg house by Robert Couturier & Associates

Sebastian's 1st Poster

2011-08-24T11:45:00.002+01:00

We love Belle & Sebastian...
It is, however, a happy coincidence that our son shares half the band's name, and no, if we have a 2nd and it's a girl, she won't be named Belle. Whilst looking for artwork for his room, I thought, why not make sure he can spell his name as soon as possible by plastering it on his wall, so...I found this and we love it! Can't wait to get it back from the framers...The colour is even prettier in real life, and it has that chalky, hand printed finish that you can't beat. As ever, I'm drawn to these photographs of the making process. I'd love to do my own screen printing one day...it looks deliciously messy...and oh so satisfying.
From StrawberryLuna

Recce in Reykjavik

2011-08-23T20:30:00.005+01:00

Simple style that the Scandinavians do so well...

Courtesy of Issue six, Rue Magazine

Sebastian

2011-08-15T18:39:00.007+01:00

So...I had a little blog hiatus. For around nine months I didn't feel too inspired in the way of blogging so I thought it best to take a break.
In the meantime, I grew a baby...and this, blogworld, is him...

Many thanks to those who stuck around, apologies to those who have abandoned and hello to those who are new. I promise not to become a mummy blogger and continue, as much as possible, in the same ilk as before, although I can't promise a completely baby free blog from here on in...x
pictures taken by yours truly

Help Japan

2011-03-13T12:07:00.004Z

You can get this beautiful poster in aid of the horrific disaster in Japan, here.

...Normal regular blogging will resume shortly. I am otherwise occupied at present but all will be revealed...
(via awesomeness costs nothing)

Wanted...

2010-12-10T09:25:00.000Z

I recently asked the husband if he'd like to suggest a few things for a men's gift guide. The suggestions are still coming in thick and fast... and yet I still don't know what to get him?!
This guide is heavily influenced by him with a couple of little ideas from me...

1. The World According To Vice 2. Comic covered notebook 3. Gibson White Flying V 4. Tickets to I'll Be Your Mirror in Tokyo curated by ATP 5. The Flavour Thesaurus 6. Original Dr. Martens 7. Flaming Heart Scotch Malt Whisky 8. Trumpers West Indian Limes Shaving Soap 9. Edwin Slim Fit Jeans

JSPR Steel Cabinets

2010-12-08T15:52:00.005Z

These Dutch, handmade steel & glass cabinets, designed by Sylvie Meuffels for JSPR, are so beautiful that they could be on display...no need to put anything inside!
The shapes are quite architectural in form...they look like small scale models of towering skyscrapers or the outline of a spooky castle on a hill...
Aesthetically, the perfect marriage of industrial and delicate is, always a winner in my books.JSPR

Holly Fulton

2010-12-01T09:53:00.006Z

I've been getting requests for some sort of gift guide...whilst contemplating whether to do one post with a montage of glorious goodies or spoon feed you with dribs and drabs of festive findings, I keep finding objects that are just too special to stuff in a stocking.
Namely, these beautiful notebooks and diaries by Scottish designer, Holly Fulton for Smythson. You may have noticed that I have a thing for stationery items especially of the notebook variety but these are yellow and blue goatskin, die-stamped, deco-inspired, illustrated, pieces of art! Not only that but Holly Fulton was born and bred in Edinburgh.

Holly studied at Edinburgh College of Art before heading south to The Royal to do an MA. She graduated in 2007 and since then her collections have gone from strength to strengh. Her Art Deco and Bauhaus inspied work is incredible.

Holly Fulton Spring/Summer 2010 London Fashion week

Yay, for home grown uber-talent!

Images from Smythson and LondonFashionWeek.co.uk

Open Plan Living Envy

2010-11-19T15:04:00.005Z

A white, open plan living space from the eccentric portfolio of David Carter. Why doesn't everyone have relief patterns on their cabinet doors and a perfectly poured, chunky, polished concrete dining table?

All images are from here

Babbington House

2010-11-17T11:49:00.006Z

The Soho House Group have a pretty impressive portfolio of hotels around the world, including the latest addition in Berlin but I still like to refer to their sumptuous first venture, Babbington House in Sommerset, for design inspiration. It opened in 1998 and, although i presume it has undergone some updating along the way, still looks elegant and relevant in the design stakes. There are 23 rooms in the main house and coach house, 5 family holiday rooms in the Stable block (...of course), a lodge with 3 bedrooms and 3 more next to the very funky Cowshed Relax Spa overlooking the walled garden, dahling...
Surely, having that beautiful old chapel in the gardens propels it into the most perfect setting for an English country wedding, no? ...only if daddy has enough on the credit card...

Sunday night, Monday morning...

2010-11-14T20:03:00.003Z

Gorgeous printed pillow cases by Karin Åkesson. Everyone needs a message like this as their head hits the pillow...especially on a Sunday night.

I hope you have an excellent Monday! x

Crazy Retro Colourways

2010-11-12T09:08:00.001Z

Awesome interior by India Mahdavi

'The Selby in your place' book

2010-11-11T09:28:00.002Z

Todd Selby takes photos of the creative elite in their creative spaces. He started his website in 2008 and his first book was published in May of this year. The entire book is available to see online, only, until Friday 12th of November at 9am (NYC time) or you could order it from here.
It features photographs of some very interesting people and spaces, and I love the felt tip interviews with pictures at the end of each feature.
Here's a sneak peek from the book featuring the home of one of my favourite ladies; Helena Christensen.

...maybe a little idea for a Christmas present... (hint, hint)

The Ultimate Leather Bag?

2010-11-10T13:24:00.006Z

OK , OK it's true...I'm obsessed with leather handbags. To be honest, I'm surprised I haven't posted more. The search for the ultimate leather handbag is just as endless as the the search for those illusive jeans. I think I've come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as the 'ultimate leather bag' and you should never limit yourself...they all deserve a good home.
This one is available from the super chic, online concept store, Bodie and Fou and is a fraction of the price of the last one i posted. Look at the raw edge along the top...it's beautiful!
...It looks like it smells amazing...have I gone too far...?

Architectural Delights

2010-11-10T12:00:00.004Z

Raw architectural elements, mingling with mid century classics in New York City...offices don't look like this anymore...

Roman and Williams

A Peace Treaty

2010-11-04T09:04:00.000Z

A Peace Treaty's first jewellery collection, 'Sunari'; Gorgeous, handmade, antiqued, gold plated jewellery inspired by the Kuchi nomadic tribes of Afghanistan and Turkoman tribes of Central Asia. There are 12 pieces in the colection and these are my favourites...
Take a look at the beautiful scarves too...
The jewellery is available online in the UK from here ...what do you think?

Textured Ceramics

2010-11-02T20:57:00.008Z

Two of my favourite things in one...texture and ceramics. Incredible work by Lenneke Wispelwey from The Netherlands. The pretty pastel colours are hard to resist and the chunky textured patterns make the pieces ultra tactile.

The new collection features this piece, titled, "for goodness sake" by Venderbosch & Wispelwey. A collaboration between Lenneke and Inge Venderbosch; an amazing Saké carafe with cups lined with gold...

American Designers at Home

2010-10-27T12:25:00.000+01:00

Ever wondered where Tommy Hillfiger's 'magic happens'...where Ralph Lauren dumps his boots after a long day 'mucking out' the stables on his Colorado ranch; where Donna Karan rinses the sea water off her bikini when, at her holiday home in Parrot Cay? All is revealed in 'American Designers at Home' from Assouline; a coffee table staple.
A sneak peek into a (few) handful(s) of American fashion designers' super styled homes:

Book cover & Ralph Lauren's dining room,

Diane Von Fustenburg's living room,
Mark Badgley and James Mischka's dining room library
Betsy Johnson's dining room
Oscar de la Renta's gaff

Black & Blue

2010-10-26T23:35:00.000+01:00

Brave enough?
source

I Love Lamp

2010-10-19T14:32:00.004+01:00

I have major lighting envy...not 1, not 2 but 3 spectacular illuminating devices...

Not surprisingly, this is Abigail Ahern's awesome kitchen take by Polly Eltes.

Doggy Style

2010-10-18T14:29:00.005+01:00

I know you're all keen to put on your Barbour jackets and peruse the estate with the labradors, this autumnal afternoon, but i think I found that piece you've been searching for, for the east wing drawing room.
From cushions to handags...and generally anything that can be made of, or adorned with, pooch-tastic fabric from The Labrador Company
from here

...living the cheesy dream...

2010-10-15T16:48:00.006+01:00

Our dear friend, Joe, is a bigshot barrister in London through the week, but at the weekend, he is now, living his dream...

Joe and his brother have recently started sourcing fantastic, locally produced, cheeses and meats to pursue their dream of being 'purveyors of fine food & drink'.

Two weeks ago, Cannon & Cannon took the plunge and hosted their first market stall at Linton Farmers' Market, and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves! As you can see, I was very happy to be asked to provide them with some pricing labels.Tomorrow they will be at Impington Farmers' market near Cambridge till 12.30 but if that's too short notice, go along to the Great Shelford Memorial Hall on the 23rd October to fulfill all your cheesy fantasies...

Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton

2010-10-13T08:53:00.001+01:00

...quite possibly the most beautiful handbag I ever did see...image source

...to the bar!

2010-10-12T21:28:00.000+01:00

In honour of London Cocktail Week, I thought I'd post a little something of what the husband has been getting up to...
As I've mentioned before, here and here, my husband co-owns a couple of popular little bars in Edinburgh, one of which is called Bramble. Their knowledge and skill on 'all-things-booze' has won them a handful of awards & accolades. Most recently, the husband was asked to create a few bespoke drinks for the launch of 'Darnley's View', a gorgeous new handcrafted, London dry gin, by renowned vintners and spirit merchants, the Wemyss family of Fife, Scotland.
Although Wemyss have opted for photographs with a fresh, clean white background for their press release imagery, I wanted to show you these.Bramble is a basement bar in the New Town...it has very little signage, is difficult to find and evokes the speakeasies of the prohibition era. Once you find it you're guaranteed an excellent drink or 3; from a newly invented creation to the classics. You can pretty much tell all that by looking at these brilliant photographs by Peter Urwin.
No prizes for guessing that one of the trends in the cocktail world at present is the ongoing quest to find the prettiest, vintage glasswear possible?!
...anyone else kinda thirsty...?

Zebratastic

2010-10-11T21:48:00.009+01:00

There's a fine line when it comes to animal print. For some reason I'm loving all things zebra at the moment but, as with most bold patterns, there's definitely a knack to it.

Stick to subtle pieces with a neutral backdrop...

...or...be confident and layer up bright colours and patterns for a bold, eclectic look...
sources: 1st image, 2nd & 3rd image from the current issue of Lonny, 4th image & 5th image

Concept Sketches

2010-10-07T01:46:00.000+01:00

I don't think you can compare a hand drawn, inked concept sketch to a computer aided image when illustrating a design idea. They are just so much prettier to look at.

These are from Tom Dixon's Design Research Studio...you wouldn't really expect anything less from him though would you?

A ski lodge in Scotland

2010-10-05T11:52:00.002+01:00

The days are getting shorter, the temperature is getting lower and I am getting increasingly distracted by this cape.

Just as well, we can all look forward to a trip up north to our respective, awesomely designed ski lodges for a couple of weeks of aprés ski advocaats - much like this one designed by Suzy Hoodless, formerly of Wallpaper* magazine.

Unfortunately, I seem to have misplaced mine...has anyone got one I can borrow?

all images from Suzy Hoodless

I heard a rumour...

2010-10-04T10:10:00.001+01:00

...that Edinburgh will soon have its very own Anthropologie...

Behind the scenes...

2010-10-01T10:41:00.002+01:00

You may have noticed that I have a fascination with the 'goings on' behind the scenes of film sets, fashion shows, photo shoots, etc etc.
I love these shots, by super talented photographer Ditte Isager, showing the story behind the fantastic imagery she produced for Bloomingdales. I've got to say, I was surprised the bed wasn't just shot in a studio and super-imposed onto a dreamy forest background. It astounds me as to how much work goes into catalogue/advertising imagery, like this, when the majority of people would take a quick glance, lick a finger and flick the page...
I'd love to do some design and styling work for magazine shoots...
image source

Grey Walls & Statement Art

2010-09-30T13:55:00.005+01:00

I know, I know; suggesting you paint a room grey couldn't sound more dull...but it looks fantastic... image source

Zara Home

2010-09-29T15:01:00.003+01:00

There was an article in a supplement of The Scotsman newspaper on Saturday featuring some tips and hints, by little ol' me, on interior trends this season. In it, I suggested rich, dark colours and layering textures (not just fabrics) to give a luxurious and decadent feel for less, perfectly illustrated in these images from Zara Home's Autum/Winter 2010 catalogue. Zara Home is now available online in the UK.

Lighten Up

2010-09-28T16:53:00.007+01:00

Check out the new range of awesome animal lamps from Atelier Abigail Aherne . Her style is always eclectic and quirky but so very chique! Abigail's blog is also worth a follow for her thougts on all the latest interior trends. Lots of layering, lots of textures and lots of rich dark colours...especially grey.
I need the bulldog...so butch, with the super girly chintzy lampshade...
Image by Graham Atkin Hughes for Atelier

Wegman's Weimaraners

2010-09-25T11:59:00.003+01:00

I'm determined to make it along to the Edinburgh Arts Centre to see William Wegman's photographs.
I have until the 24th October. The exhibition illustrates the family tree of all the weimaraners he has owned, capturing a body of 25 years' work, featuring over 60 pieces.
Has anyone been yet? What did you think?

Creepy Crawlies

2010-09-24T14:46:00.006+01:00

As it gets colder outside the bugs and beasties come inside...and it's not just the live ones. Beetles, dragonflys, buterflys and spiders have been released onto jewellery, fabrics, wallpaper and ceramics.
Here's a round up of some of my favourite bits and pieces...

1. Natural History Entomology Notebook 2. Bottega Veneta clutch bag 3. Timorous Beasties Digital Fabric 4. Fired Earth wall tile 5. John Derian crystal dome paperweight 6. Atlantis Home beetle jewellery

I can't handle the live ones...even the prettiest of butterflies. I blame the one that landed on my shoulder when I was eight years old at Rouken Glen Butterfly Kingdom. I'll never forgive you...with your creepy tentacles, spindly legs and ability to fly erratically at any given moment...bleeeeuuuurgh...

28.37 Pendant Canopy

2010-09-21T10:23:00.004+01:00

A cluster of 37 misshapen hand blown glass balls with misted bulb on the inside...the more the merrier, I say! From Bocci

Teatime Upcycle

2010-09-18T17:36:00.003+01:00

UK illustrator, Esther Coombs, upcylcles charity shop tableware finds with her pretty architectural ink drawings. The cake stands are piled high with pretty vintage glassware and a teacup on top.

Elevenses anyone...?

50's Inspired Curves

2010-09-14T12:41:00.003+01:00

I've been thinking about this beautiful fashion shoot from the How to Spend It supplement from The Financial Times since its issue last week.
The 50's are seeing a somewhat glamorous and romantic revival at present in everything from interiors to fashion and even make up (of which this model's is awesome! Check out that white eyeliner!).
It seems the American TV series, MadMen and the beautifully shot, Tom Ford film, A Single Man have a lot to answer for. So far I have managed to catch one episode of MadMen and loved it. I have the full 1st season waiting to be watched from the very beginning and from there hopefully I'll catch up to the 4th!...I have a bit of catching up to do...

Images styled by Damien Foxe for How to Spend it

Honeycomb reflection

2010-09-13T13:07:00.006+01:00

The perfect solution for a small space and such a pretty geometric honeycomb inspired effect......also in love with that green velvet sofa...
via

Ink Calender by Oscar Diaz

2010-09-10T09:19:00.001+01:00

awesome...

“Ink Calendar” make use the timed pace of the ink spreading on the paper to indicate time.
The ink is absorbed slowly, and the numbers in the calendar are “printed” daily. One a day, they are filled with ink until the end of the month........The “Ink Calendar” was developed for “Gradual “, an exhibition featuring works, which were evolving during the exhibition time at the London Design Festival 2007.

images and more info can be found here

HelenAmyMurray

2010-09-09T12:16:00.002+01:00

The beautiful surface relief textures of British textile designer, HelenAmyMurray's work have been bookmarked since the 100% Design exhibition in London in 2006 and at the top of my bloglist since the start of Yeah...Ok...Bye.

'Peony', Stretched wall piece 01 'Oriental' and 'Diamond'

Initially inspired by the carvings in wood and marble on a trip to India, her work has always reflected nature and form and has recently taken a more oriental route. She has perfected her technique to the point where it almost looks machine made although all her work is handmade to order, in her workshop in London. The textiles can be applied to furniture as upholstery, or even as a wall covering.

Danish tub chair 'peacock' and Art Deco 'Cloud' chair

I, recently found out that she has applied her designs to some very beautiful silk and Tibetan wool rugs for The Rug Company's Designer Collection.

Peony, Tibetan wool and Star Silk, Silk

She says,

'I'm excited about fabric manipulation and using innovative techniques, beautiful, luxury materials and design, to create couture for the high-end interior and art markets.'

As always, I'm looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next!

Images from HelenAmyMurray and The Rug Company

Tattoos

2010-09-08T09:50:00.004+01:00

This isn't my handwriting although i wish it was.
This calligraphy is by the amazing Betsy Dunlap. I've been a massive fan for a while and evidently so are a few others...so much so, they have commissioned her work for these awesome tattoos.

'I am my brother's keeper' and 'Lucy and Orla'

images from B Dunlap blog

Day Birger et Mikkelsen A/W 2010

2010-09-07T16:07:00.007+01:00

Day Birger et Mikkelsen's Home collecton for Autumn/Winter 2010 features lots of blacks, whites and greys with hints of warm blood red and cool teal blue.
Don't these lifestyle images look chilly compared to the warm sunkissed face of the girl modelling the beautiful Autumn/Winter women's collection?

Some of you who follow me on twitter will know that as the commercial interior design demand has shrivelled I have been helping a friend in her very cool Apothecary, DollyLeo, (interior soon to be posted) so I can tell you that as the months get colder the make up look this Autum/Winter will shift from dewy corals to warm native American skintones and soft, smokey eyes, lots of nude tones and the odd blood red lip...so it looks like Day Birger are already all over it!
Either way, it's all gorgeous!

Etiquette

2010-09-04T02:04:00.005+01:00

My husband very almost convinced me that I made up the rule about cheese; ever since we first shared a cheese plate and I was outraged by his confident mutilation of the stinky, yet sacred tip of the triangle. Due to his bewildering ignorance I actually started to believe that maybe I had dreamt up such an infringement of a social situation.

...he still takes the 'nose' of the triangle, every time, just to see the shocked look on my face...

print available from Coulson Macleod

Staircase Envy

2010-09-01T00:58:00.004+01:00

ooooooooooooooohhhh...just your average internal sandstone staircase...

image: johnmckenziephotography.co.uk

Sometimes...

2010-08-28T10:00:00.000+01:00

...architects are interior design legends...sometimes...

House 'O', Bodrum, Turkey, Erginoğlu & Çalışlar

Handwritten Table Plan

2010-08-27T12:26:00.007+01:00

I was so delighted to be asked to write the table plan and place cards for our friends' wedding at the beginning of the August! It was a brilliant weekend in the Scottish Borders...a smorgesboard of Danish, Sri Lankan and Scottish influences...and plenty of cocktails of course!

They moved to Copenhagen from Scotland a few years ago and opened the award winning bar Ruby ...check it out

P.S A massive thank you to Design Studio B for including Yeah...Ok...Bye in their top 5 design blogs (as their 'favourite by far')!!
P.P.S. Follow my blog with bloglovin

Caroline Swift Breakables

2010-08-26T18:30:00.007+01:00

I get my love for tableware and ceramics from my mum...who incidentally has a thing for spoons too. She has a little table of pretty spoons in the dining room and her collection of unusual ceramic crockery, mostly from degree shows by new designers, is growing nicely too.
Reading this back she sounds a bit like a crazy lady with weird ornaments everywhere but her taste is more akin to the work of former benetton knitwear designer, Caroline Swift's paper thin bone china bowls, pretty spoons and these amazing, intricate, stoneware flowers...i'd be afraid to hold those beautiful bowls too tight!

Made in England and available here...any guesses what mum's getting for Christmas??!

Paper Gifts

2010-08-25T10:05:00.004+01:00

For our first wedding anniversary we got each other paper gifts.
As we were visiting Paris, my grand plan was to take my husband to the comic book artist, Moebius' shop where he could choose a limited edition print and hopefully have it signed. However, after an expensive taxi ride to the opposite side of the French capital, in a month when Parisiennes generally vacate the city...the shop was closed.
Fortunately, on our last day we took the Metro out to La Defense, home to La Grande Arche and many more futuristic, architectural phenomenons on the outskirts of the city where we happened upon an awesome art store called, Arteum. Needless to say we were there for quite some time exploring the shelves.
I eventually found my 36 year old husband in the 'Petits Artiste' section where he proclaimed, with much excitement, that he had found what he wanted, from me, for our anniversary....a large model cardboard robot by Calafant...
My husband got me 'Sundays Are For Lovers'; a lovely book curated by Maria Alexandra Vettese, by independant American publishers, Lines & Shapes, in which artists express what they like to get up to on a Sunday...I love it.
How do you spend your Sunday?

Book images courtesy of Lines & Shapes via Daily Candy
Robot available from here

Where Chocolate gets Creative

2010-08-24T09:54:00.000+01:00

Spanish textile designer, blogger and fellow Mydeco* award nominee, Margarita Lorenzo's London home has been featured in Spanish Elle Deco. A, small but perfectly styled apartment; she obviously keeps the objects that inspire her close at hand...there are some gorgeous details and beautiful furniture. I love the art work hanging over the table.Head to Chocolate Creative for a look at some of Margarita's designs...these vintage paper doll cushions are soooo cute...especially the little detail on the back!

*If you've already voted for me you can still vote for Chocolate Creative as it's in a different category!

Cath Kidston flooring

2010-08-23T18:39:00.004+01:00

Just when you thought there couldn't possibly be an object left in the world that there could be a Cath Kidston print applied to, I bring you...vinyl floor tiles...

Are your chintz dreams now fulfilled?

Available here

Laura Barnard

2010-08-20T18:15:00.005+01:00

Check out these illustrations by Laura Barnard...i'm a sucker for architectural line drawings, cityscapes and looking up at the sky...

laurabarnard.co.uk

Ovale

2010-08-19T10:00:00.000+01:00

If there's one thing the Parisiennes can do well (apart from architecture, food, style, baking, etc etc) it's retail display. Whilst window shopping (much cheaper than real shopping) in St Germaine one evening (best time to see window displays) on our recent trip, we came across this baby shop full of sleeping polar bears...

photographs by me

Pretty sitting...

2010-08-13T16:35:00.006+01:00

This Philip Stanhope Chesterfield sofa wants my bum to nestle on its fine leather, foam-filled cushions...but i've told it, it'll have to loose a few pounds (sterling) first...
Chesterfield 1780

I'll take...that one...

2010-08-11T09:06:00.000+01:00

After the obligatory morning at the very impressive, Eiffel Tower, we boarded the Bateaux Mouche one sunny afternoon and settled down for 1hr and 10 minutes of learning. Rather than looking starboard and port, when instructed, to see yet another monument France was gifted, I found myself snapping the Paris apartments I would most like to live in...check these out...
It seems, a view of Paris through large windows is a must on my fantasy property wishlist...fancy that?!

photography by me

Merci

2010-08-10T14:11:00.006+01:00

One of the shops on my list for our trip was Merci, a favourite amongst bloggers and designers, so I couldn't have passed it up...
Merci is a charity shop with a difference; Designers donate peices to be sold and all proceeds go to help children, mainly in Madagascar. A concept put into practice by the founders, of childrens store, Bonpoint, Marie-France and Bernard Cohen.
It still puzzles me though. There were designers there assembling displays, staff, serving coffee and assisting shop and the property itself must have been extortionate!
Either way, what a place!
Jewellery, accessories (including a separate Mulberry bag 'zone') and a beautiful Annick Goutal, D-I-Y perfume bar greet you upon entering the bright, airy shop through the courtyard set back from the busy, Boulevard Beaumarchais. Then you make your way up a couple of steps to the stationery and baby merchandise, and through the huge furniture, clothing (designer & vintage) and homeware section. Then downstairs to lighting (see the Foscarini for Diesel pendants below) and kitchenware, complete with a restaurant and courtyard.
You end up with the irresistible option to exit through the 'used book café' where you can sit on an array of upcycled furniture, (all with price tags) and sip a café creme, whilst perusing the floor-to-ceiling book shelves...

all photography by me

We're back!

2010-08-06T09:54:00.007+01:00

So we're back from Paris and are now off to a 2-day wedding in the Scottish borders so apologies for the lack of blog posts this week. I do have a couple of goodies lined up from the trip...if my photos are up to grade...
We had a lovely time; saw some sites, walked a fair bit, shopped a little and ate a lot!
We tried not to spend too much but Paris is expensive and the Euro is strong (against the pound) so I thought it best to leave this dress in the good hands of Givenchy, for now...it wouldn't have fit into our Ryanair, 10kg limit, hand luggage anyway...

oh...and ...if you've got a minute, you could vote for me here if you like...Thanks x

À Bientôt

2010-07-31T10:12:00.001+01:00

We're off to speak pigeon french with Scottish et Australian accents to angry Parisiens, drink café au lait and hopefully not buy anything that won't fit in our hand luggage (Ryanair)...

Many thanks for the suggestions on my previous Paris blog post and on twitter...much appreciated. Thanks to you and some famille, we have a (very) loose itinerary and even looser dinner reservations, other than that we're just going to soak it all up and in the immortal words of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, 'fly by the seat of our pants'.
No doubt I'll take beaucoup de photos, tweet a lot and then post a little something upon our return...

...but for now, au revoir mes amis x

photography by Irene Suchoki