Day of parties and fireworks

Catherine Jamieson

I would like to wish all our Canadian readers a very happy Canada Day. Because I live in Ottawa, Canada's capital (and no, Toronto is NOT the capital) I thought I'd share some photos with you of this lovely city (and one of the museum across the river). Sadly I have never really taken any good photos of the beautiful scenery and architecture here so I had to enlist the help of Flickr.

realaworld	americanadian_8
raphbaril	blix613
autoclavable	nurd grrl
Azzaelea	gendaken
beluga 7	null photography
freezelight	gendaken

In my Flickr search I found the following images and had to include them because they are crucial for survival in this city.

buck82	terri_tu

Many of you probably don't know that we have 2 extra food groups here: Tim Hortons coffee and poutine. Without these life as we know it would cease to exist. Hope you enjoyed this little taste of Ottawa. Come on out and visit sometime...just maybe not in the winter. ;)

House tours

Joanna from A Cup of Jo emailed to remind us that one of Cookie Magazine's blogs nesting has some great house tours featured. Drop on over and take in the inspiration. Thanks Joanna. Must be fun doing posts for Cookie.

Sara Story Design

There is an oriental influence apparent in Sara Story's designs. Not surprising as she was born in Japan and travelled extensively in Asia. Her style is contemporary, eclectic and timeless. Clean lines, contrasting neutrals, rich textures and a global streak are typical of her work. I think I need a Hermes box or 2.

Images from Sara Story Design

Colour in the kitchen

Elizabeth Dimond emailed us a link to the Elmira Stove Works. WOW! Talk about colour in the kitchen. Here in Australia there are many colours in appliances as long as you basically want white or stainless steel. There are of course SMEG fridges and dishwashers but I've never seen a co-ordinated kitchen range like these retro beauties. Although I can't see it online Elizabeth says she's spotted these wonders in that retro colour to beat all colours ..... avocado. Now you're talking!

Images from Elmira Stove Works

Drake Design Associates

Jamie Drake is a genius with colour. His portfolio is brilliant, and this Fifth Avenue loft really stood out. "Surprise and movement - that's what I like. Colors both ground and animate this space, whether washing in yellow or popping with pink. High gloss lacquer, antique mirror and rich silk velvets and shantungs polish up the eclectic mix of furnishings."