Old and new

I've always wanted to buy a really old home that has cool architectural features and renovate it, leaving some of the "old" intact. That is just what marianne amodio architecture studio in Vancouver did here. A complete transformation of a seldom used ground floor from basement storage to master bedroom and living quarters, this renovation was realized with the principle of exposing the layers of history evident in the 1927 home. The contrast between old and new is proudly pronounced: Original red brick fireplaces are revealed, their chalk inscriptions from previous owners left behind; old fir beams find new life as stair treads, and vintage fir planks salvaged from the demolition become a crafted herringbone feature wall. The concrete floor is uncovered, contrasted by shiny new tiles. A spectacular cool blue wetroom and powder room adjoin a new master bedroom; the headboard is the vintage brick fireplace.

Hannotte Interiors

Hannotte Interiors - "uncommon design for common folk." Hear hear! Stylish, inspiring and real is what Toronto based designer Jenn Hannotte does best. Part vintage, part modern, a little organic and always with a zest for life. It's not so much about bags of money but using the right resources. Just my sort of design.

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Williamson Chong

Williamson Chong is the Toronto architecture and design office of Shane Williamson, Betsy Williamson, and Donald Chong. This trio brings on creativity, urbanism and sustainability. Below are a few of their projects, my favourite being the Galley House, built on a long, narrow 'leftover lot of 12' wide - which is the exact width of my house. But mine looks nothing like this one. :( It's amazing what these folks did with such an awkward space. 

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Back to reality

I am back from 9 days in Mexican heaven, and have sadly returned to Canadian winter....without my freaking suitcase. I have never had this happen to me before, and never imagined how irritating and what a nuisance it is. Not a great way to end a fantastic holiday (by the way, I highly recommend Puerto Vallarta as a FAB holiday spot, having been there I think 6 times now). I am in desperate need of some cheering up so I thought some awesome photography by Toronto photographer Derek Shapton would do the trick. 

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Grateful Head Salon

Oh my word! Talk about rock and roll glam! Just in from Canadian photographer Brenda Liu, the Grateful Head Salon.

I photographed this for my friend Lysa Fina who owns the salon (located in Toronto). I think there are number of elements that would translate well into a home. The space has a rock 'n roll vibe with lots of funky details, for example the raised velvet skull wallpaper and the all red show stopping bathroom. It's far from the typical all white salons we are so used to.

I've included "before" photos so you can see the transformation of the space. The salon was designed with the help of Lysa's friend and professional set designer, Nancy Niksic. I hope you enjoy!

What a transformation. Love the bathroom, the distressed walls, the skulls and Brenda captures the space perfectly. With a salon this cool the hair must be hot!

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