SL:ID STUDIO

SL:ID STUDIO is the California design firm of Samantha Lyman. She begins with a foundation of classical principles and integrates modern elements to create a fresh aesthetic. Although relaxed modernism is the signature of SL:ID STUDIO, Samantha is fluent in several styles and periods. Surfaces and finishes are both tactile and beautiful. The warmth of a timeless antique may soften a spare, modern space. Layered lighting anticipates the arrival of a treasured painting and comfortable furnishings. Finally, an element of humor and the unexpected lends levity to a tastefully arranged space. I love the classy but liveable spaces and the warm, neutral colour palette that seems to have so much depth. 

Click to read more ...

Night and day

I'll start this post by saying that I would happily move into Les Interieurs' studio in Newport Beach and blissfully live amongst the stock. I adore Pamela Makin's work.  Remember this ...

from this post? I didn't think it could get any better. Well it has. New work from Les Interieurs. I think of it as night and day. Black, white and natural. Tribal, timber and art and artifact. It's just perfect. The homes today are moody and black or atmospheric and naturally neutral ... or both. Perfect.

Click to read more ...

Monaci delle terre nere

I need to get my arse to Italy. It is SO beautiful and kind of embarrassing to be half Italian and not really having ever visited the freaking country (except once when I was 4). We heard about this home turned hotel in Sicily, Monaci delle terre nere, from the folks of Welcome Beyond and it's quintessential Italian - rustic and full of history (check out the old wine press!). The building is of historic importance and used to be owned by monks. It is set on the slopes of Mt. Etna looking over the Mediterranean. It is part of an 40-acre organic farm where we grow different varieties of fruit. We also have a vineyard and an organic vegetable garden for the guests. The restoration took about three years. We used only local materials and as little chemicals as possible and are about to get an eco-tourist certification. There are six rooms. We eventually plan to have 12 after having restored the three old stone buildings by the vineyard and the wine cellar. But this will take a little while.

Click to read more ...

Martin Tessler (again)

Yes, I have a weakness for really well executed interior photography, especially when executed by a Canadian. Vancouverite Martin Tessler has it going on. I love his portfolio, and I am totally intrigued by the walls of trinkets in the first two photos. (Previous post here and some of his photos here)

Click to read more ...

Still stalking

Hidden amongst the tree ferns and gum trees, up a winding stone path is a quaint one bed room weekender. Yarramie Cottage was built in the 1920s with views across the Great Mackerel Beach valley in the Pittwater area north of Sydney. A sandy beach 5 minutes walk away makes this cute little stone gem a perfect holiday escape especially in the hot Australian summers ... although I must admit I'd love to curl up near the fire in winter, far from the madding crowd. Wildlife, trail walks, beach, seclusion and a significant other. Sometimes real estate stalking takes you unexpected places. Love it. Link here while it lasts.

Click to read more ...