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.

Welcome Beyond – Luxury vacation rentals

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)

z axis design is an architecture firm based in Toronto that I recently discovered whose work is impressive. Their kitchens are gorgeous, their cabinetry is divine and I absolutely adore the front entrance that blends seamlessly with the outdoors – SO COOL! 

New York City decorator Ashley Whittaker takes traditional decor to a whole new level. It’s certainly a fresh, updated, version that has much more colour and pattern than you would expect. Spaces that must bring a smile to the homeowners’ faces when they walk in each room, and make you want to sit down and hang out a while. While I gravitate towards more modern decor, I would be quite content spending time in any of these rooms.

In case you haven’t gotten your fill of eye candy today or you’ve just got a really sweet tooth (HA), I thought Nato Welton‘s photography might satiate your appetite. Although his portfolio is so yummy it leaves me wanting more.