Happy September! I can’t believe summer is almost over, and soon we can start enjoying the Autumn collections. Funky and functional homewares, in limitless amounts of colors and print! That’s what Danish shop Rice is all about.
Founded in 1998, Rice products are designed and developed in Denmark, with offices in Thailand and India. Rice maintains a strong vision, sense of creativity, hopes and ambitions. The colors this season are jade, peacock green, blue, yellow and raspberry, not your typical Autumn/Winter palette! And I love that about Rice, they maintain vibrancy and energy in their lovely collections no matter the season. How refreshing!
I adore the eclectic mix of fabrics, hues, textures and patterns this season. Those bright mats are a must have! This gorgeous palette and design style are a mixture of cool and cozy, with warm touches that liven up the home. Velvet fabrics, embroideries and handmade details are found everywhere in the Rice catalogue, with a mixture of prints ranging from berries to flowers and peacocks.
(images: rice)
Happy Monday! I’d like to begin this week with some beautiful inspiration from Up in the Air Somewhere, a shop filled with gorgeous ceramic pieces and paper items hand made by Chicago-based artist and designer Susan Dwyer.
Susan graduated from the Art Institute of Chicago with a focus on sculpture, and soon after was inspired by the clean and minimalist aesthetics of industrial architecture to create a line of ceramic and papier- mâché vessels. From silos to warehouses and water towers mirroring the Chicago landscape, Susan hand builds stunning and elegant vases, votives and planters into one-of-a-kind pieces. With a soft and natural color scheme, the ceramic and papier-mâché products maintain a very organic and delicate aesthetic, coming in a variety of shapes and sizes from round bowls, to oval tubes, square bases and long cylinders.
The hand made quality in Susan’s work is a huge part of the result of course, creating a personal and familiar touch to the work, making them come alive with love and personality. The form of each product is unique, and the texture also makes these ceramics so appealing to display in your home, don’t you think? The Scandinavian style of the white and gray pitchers, and yellow and gray cups make them perfect for the kitchen, with clean lines and utilitarian design they are durable and easy to use. And where can you find a pitcher this gorgeous? You can find the list of retailers across the US that carry Up in the Air Somewhere’s stunning line here on their website.
Do you have a favorite piece? The thin papier-mâché bowls, designed to perfection with a white base and a touch of yellow or gold color on the inside, are my favorites from Up in the Air Somewhere. They could be stand alone art themselves, but they are also functional to hold dry food or other small items like rings or beads.
(images: up in the air somewhere)
Happy Weekend! Before we part until Monday, how would you like to journey with me to a quaint little street in Beirut to visit a lovely shop filled with gorgeous, colorful, and patterned unconventional pouffes? The shop is called Barjis, and the talented designer is Hala Habib.
I am so glad I had the opportunity to visit Barjis during my short stay in Beirut, and take you on a little shop tour with me because this gorgeous work deserves to be noticed! An old friend of my parents, designer Hala was so accommodating and happily allowed me to snap some photos while she told me all about her art, which began as a hobby – she just opened her shop at the beginning of this year! The name Barjis comes from an old Farsi game played on a velvet cloth with brass pegs and 5 shells.
Hala has so much drive and a great way of seeing things that translates into her work. All the pretty pouffes and pillows are handmade by the designer herself; she chooses the colors, patterns and designs, and puts them together to create different shapes and sizes. Hala speaks so passionately about her work, and oozes with positive energy, so I asked her a few questions about her work so I could share that element with you.
Please describe your process. Where do you find inspiration?
This is a little difficult to explain as it really just “happens”. But in the root of it all, it’s my love for fabrics, textures and colors that drive me. Plus my eternal interest in people’s psyche and needs, it drives me to create work accordingly. I imagine certain types of people and what would appeal to them and that inspires me to do certain designs. I hope this does not sound commercial, because it’s not at all. It’s just like a need to make people happy. And of course the comfort factor plays a big role. How can I make a set up look comfy and cozy. I used to worry that I could lose myself in that “psyche” bit and not find my own signature because of it, but I was very surprised to see that my signature is there, mainly because at the end of the day, they all truly express “me” in all my moods and tastes. And then of course, my trip to India left a big impact on me. The mix of colors so effortlessly and naturally blended together by the natives, it was amazing!
I love that the shop is decorated with the pouffes and accessories themselves, creating different focal points in the space and directing the viewer directly to the pieces. The shop itself is so inviting and full of energy and reflects the art so well, with a colorful, vibrant palette full of pattern and shapes.
What is the advantage of having a shared work studio and shop space?
First, it creates a very interactive atmosphere with the customers. My personal experience taught me that when I like something and get the chance to meet and converse with the artist/designer of that thing, and get a chance to watch how she/he work, the thing itself would have a more personal meaning and value. It’s good to touch the spirit of the artist of the designs you buy or fancy. Second, it’s of course very practical for me as I’m running a one man show, by choice, this way I can be working and designing instead of just sitting there waiting in anticipation for customers to come in. This way, I don’t wait, I just be. And it’s a great feeling really. When a customer walks into the shop while I’m indulged in my work it gives me a boost to do more, like a good omen. So, it’s both practical and interactive to have the atelier and shop in the same place.
I absolutely love the eclectic mix of fabric, patterns and colors Hala combines in her pouffes, creating unique, creative and fun designs. I actually ordered a custom pouffe and a pillow for my home and can’t wait to see the designs and how they will liven up my space! The mix and match look of this shop is divine, and creates a fearless and exotic style.
How do you find your fabrics and materials?
I get my fabrics from different sources. Some from the local market, others I order from catalogues, some I just find by accident. So far I use mostly European high end fabrics, by makers such as Rubelli, Sahco hesslein, Dedar, Designer Guild…etc. I care a lot for quality and feel. My aim is to travel to places like Turkey, Nepal, Iran, Latin America…etc in search for ethnic fabrics and blends.
What do you hope to achieve from your designs?
I don’t know really, I just do it because I like it and enjoy it. Maybe the first thing I hope to achieve, and it’s working, is self expression and definition, plus a state of joy that I derive from the act of creativity. It’s really mostly for the sake of creativity itself. I really did not have any target in mind when I started off this business (I don’t even like to think of it as a business), but seeing the positive favorable response from Barjis admirers, I would like very much to take this project further. I just hope I will always be inspired, driven and motivated. I would like Barjis to be in every home, mostly because each piece is made with love and a certain level of spontaneity that I wish for the whole world to have. I hope this doesn’t sound too lame, but it’s really how I feel. That is why I give my pouffes names. To me they have life and I like to share that life with others.
Thank you so much Hala for your time and for sharing your beautiful work with us!
(images: samia kallidis for burrs & berries)
If colorful, energetic, comfortable, and patterned fabrics are what you love, then Rubie Green is the place for you. Plus, they are all eco-friendly, using 100% organic cotton proving that natural does not have to be boring.
Designer Michelle Adams has a degree in apparel and textile design from Michigan State University, and after the realization that eco-friendly textiles in classic prints could not be found anywhere, Michelle took the opportunity to combine her passions for design and sustainability to create Rubie Green in 2007.
I love Michelle’s philosophy and drive, which she describes best: “our professor taught us that if we were going to put more products onto the earth then we needed to do so responsibly. It’s a concept that has stuck with me throughout the entire manufacturing process, despite the fact that it would have been twenty times easier to manufacture in traditional ways.”
I am smitten by the bright colors and exciting patterns in Rubie Green’s collection that you can find and even order on their website! And you can use these fabrics for anything! Doesn’t the leopard print look gorgeous on that chair? You can create an eclectic home without breaking your budget by just playing with a variety of fabrics with different colors, styles and prints.
If you’re bored with your pillow cases, you can cover your pillow fillings with fresh and exciting colors, and don’t just stop there. Go ahead and create a new throw, curtains, seat covers, and place mats. Could you think of interesting ways you could use fabric to liven up your home?
(images: rubie green)
Happy Weekend friends! A lovely message hit my inbox a while ago from Serena of Sang and Serena Company, and I am so excited to share with you their beautiful inlay furniture that is like no other.
After a chance meeting in India, Sang and Serena Company was born with the intention of supporting traditional craft-making skills of an artist-entrepreneur’s art school. Sang and Serena then made these beautiful products accessible to North America through one-of-a-kind pieces that are completely handmade and derived from natural materials. These stunning pieces, intricate and decorative, are potential heirlooms to be passed on and cherished for generations.
Unlike many furniture, these bone inlay pieces have great value and are so much character to a space, creating a middle ground where East meets West. Every item designed and imported is environmentally friendly, with so much detail and soft smooth surface, a fusion of cultures as well as a meeting between history and modernity. My favorite piece is the gray and white chest of drawers; such intense pattern and detail that is yet so elegant is often hard to achieve, and I find it is done perfectly! And you, what do you think of these beauties?
(images: sang and serena company)
In the lovely countryside of party capital Ibiza lives a young family in a tranquil, gorgeous white villa filled with warmth, brilliant colors, and lots of design eye candy and inspiration.
Photographed by Hans Zeegers and represented by Taverne Agency, this home has many of my favorite decor elements. Built with a modern finish and exposed wood log ceilings, the decor combines a mixture of beautiful characteristics for a fresh and original result. White walls are contrasted with light wood cabinets, windows, and furniture, as well as a stunning dark gray kitchen unit, counters and shelving. And above all, who can resist the breath taking Mediterranean? All the gorgeous wood creates a warm and welcoming feeling to the house don’t you think? Everything looks so crisp, yet familiar and inviting.
Look at all the colorful details, aren’t they gorgeous? I love the little garland in the dining room complementing the gray, white and wood backdrop, and the darling row of lanterns lined above the dining table, with intricate little shapes and patterns. And how adorable is the bunk bed with pink sheets and curtains! It’s such a creative alternative to a regular bed frame, with interesting details and forms in the wood with such an adventurous feel and look that seems so appropriate for a child. I wonder what the family living in this home is like, it would be great to learn who they are, what their interests are, and how they were inspired to decorate such a wonderful home. What I love the most is the eclectic mix of pattern, texture, and contrast in neutral versus bright colors. And you, what do you love about this home?
(images: hans zeegers, taverne agency)
Confetti System is the result of a collaboration between artists, stylists, designers and friends Nicholas Andersen and Julie Ho, who have a shared love of communal celebration and craft-making.
Confetti System art directs and creates stunning installations and sets for the fashion and music industry. Bright, fun and colorful – confetti system transforms simple and mundane materials like tissue paper, cardboard and silk into interactive objects, creating a focal point “where memories are made and a spontaneous collaboration with the viewer is sparked. Confetti System’s creations occupy the space between the ephemeral and the permanent, evoking a sense of nostalgia and lighthearted fun.” Doesn’t that sound divine? I am sold!
You can even buy your own products from Confetti System from their shop, and better yet, order a custom design! Their line of jewelry and festive objects are sold through Opening Ceremony, Maryam Nassir Zadeh and Bergdorf Goodman, and have been exhibited in art galleries and museums in New York, LA, Miami and Holland.
Who says you have to wait for an occasion to order some festive decorations? Confetti System’s multicolored tassel garlands would look adorable for a backyard party, barbecue, or in the home for the summer, be it in the living room, kitchen or hallway, they’d liven up any room or space! Would you put these up in your home? What other ways could you think of using these lovely products?
(images: confetti system)
Pattern, Pattern, Pattern! I really like this Denmark designed and manufactured wallpaper from ferm LIVING. Carrying a variety of wallpaper designs in a combination of graphic patterns and a unique modern touch, ferm LIVING wallpaper is inspired by many places – Scandinavian nature, flea markets, and trips from around the world.
That last photo would be great for a kid’s room, the hot balloons in complementary orange and blue block print effect look fun and playful! I appreciate their selection of papers, as you can see the diverse range is lovely, and the photos on their site are great.
Not only is their wallpaper gorgeous, it is also WallSmart quality, which means that they are non-woven and very easy to work with as the paste is applied directly onto the wall. I also love that they ship internationally, making their papers so accessible.
Okay so have you picked a favorite? Mine is the mushroom wallpaper – I imagine it would be a big too much for a whole wall for me, but I think it would look stunning on one wall in the kitchen behind some white open shelving with neatly organized plates, bowls and cups.
Which one do you fancy? Why?
(images: ferm living)
Happy Canada Day! I recently came across the most adorable boutique I have ever seen. My Little Day is a kids party shop in France, where you can find beautifully designed and packaged treasures like party hats, balloons, confetti, even invitation cards, plates and napkins! And could the name be any cuter?
Mothers and owners Dorothée Monestier and Gabriella Toscan were nice enough to share some photos from their photoshoot with their own children having a blast! Styled with all the treasures you can find at their shop, the set looks so fun and festive, adorned with little details and bright colors, looking like a scene from the circus.
My Little Day is a celebration of life, reminding us to have fun and let loose every once in a while. We often get carried away with other things in life, and forget to celebrate the little things. Dorothée and Gabriella laugh, dance, jump and play with their children. My Little Day explores children’s imagination and creativity, and celebrates the most special day of the year, and what child doesn’t love celebrating their birthday! I could see a fabulously decorated party with all the items from this shop in a cute backyard on a summer day.
(images: my little day)
How about a little interior inspiration today? One favorite pastime of mine is to browse the portfolios, lookbooks and shops of home decor stylists, photographers and designers. I sometimes like to grab images that I find inspiring and examine every detail that makes them stand out, and imagine styling them in my own home. Do you do this too?
Rachel Ashwell founded Shabby Chic in 1989, drawing inspiration from her aesthetic and lifestyle that is based on a balance of beauty, comfort, and function. The Shabby Chic brand is all about the beauty of imperfections, allure of time-worn objects, and appeal of simple practical living. These photographs take us to a cozy familiarity, but a glamorous elegance, reflecting the brand’s appreciation for what is used, well-loved and worn.
Everything looks so comfortable, the thick, rich sheets and soft palette creates such a familiar and cozy atmosphere. I love the way the chandelier drapes over the wooden dining room table, the open shelving in the kitchen, and the overall display, the flowers in the sink makes the kitchen look so inviting. The summer air is imminent in these beautiful photos, with an easy elegance through soft intricacies that is not a bit overdone. The faded, vintage glam look of these rooms really appeal to me, and the lighting is great. It makes me long to live in southern California where Shabby Chic was based, or a place closer to the equator where the lighting is always perfect.
Are there any rooms that catch your eye? What do you like about them?
(images: shabby chic)
