I wasn’t sure what I wanted to blog today but since I have the prospect of a new house on my brain these days I thought I’d share some inspirational photos that I think will be a big help if and when this new house materializes. (The reasons why nothing has happened yet are complicated and well, frustrating but I’m crossing my fingers it will all get sorted out very soon). I was going to include some drawings my husband did of a design for the new house that we really like but because it’s multi-levelled, I thought the drawings were a bit too confusing. So instead, I’ll just stick to some photos of spaces that are right up my alley and in line with what I want for the house. I’m still hung up on lots of black and white and natural wood, a bit of Scandinavian, modern, industrial and ethnic all combined to create a hopefully somewhat cohesive but eclectic home. I would die for windows like this, with a thick black frame. Likely too expensive but a girl can dream.

YLAB Arquitectos

This workspace is amazing. The industrial light fixture, rough planks of wood for the work surface, funky chairs…

Residence

This storage unit would be simple to build, would hold alot of my crap, AND double as a cat climbing structure.

Sköna hem

The ethnic vibe of this bedroom is fantastic. Awesome colour combo, and would look even more gorgeous with my moroccan wedding blanket hanging on a wall.

Living Agency

I am shocked to realize I really love the unexpected look of gold fixtures in a bathroom. It’s a bit of old world glam that could look hot if done right (ie. below).

Sköna hem

Can’t go wrong with black mosaic tiles, white walls and rosewood.

BOLIG Magasinet

I am head over heels for simple lighting solutions like this one hanging over a set of bookcases. I would really love to replicate this somewhere.

Tribe Studio Architects

A large, deep, round window probably costs a fortune but would be so much fun for the cats… and maybe even me.

Yatzer

I hate everyday ugly things like outlets and light switches. This is a perfect solution for a clean, minimalist look.

Dwell

I just love everything about this. The lighting solution would be so cool over a kitchen island too.

I’m absolutely DYING to finally own a cool vintage trough-like sink. I’ve been (passively) looking for one for years and have never found one. I’d settle for some type of quirky vintage sink in the powder room.

Jennifer’s former home

I have been without an actual entrance for 5 years now and I’ve had enough. This bench/storage combo is perfection. And the slat wall could come in handy.

John Donkin

I’ve been in love with this backyard since I first found it on Dwell’s site. It would be the PERFECT transformation for my backyard once the house is complete.

Dwell

It’s been almost 2 years since I blogged (here and here) the fantastic interiors of designer Charles De Lisle, and because I am a big fan, I thought it was about time I sing his praises once again. I love the eclectic decor of this San Francisco home. And I am totally smitten with the tiles in the kitchen. 

There’s something about the combination of black, white, wood, bare bulbs, vintage portraits in gilt frames that does it for me every time. (Similar post here. And STILL kicking myself for not having bought this.) 

via Brent Darby (previously blogged here)

I’m stoked to have finally stumbled upon the portfolio of Calgary interior designer Nyla Free. I love featuring Canadians with talent. And Nyla has oodles of it. I am smitten with her portfolio. Lasting designs that are packed with beautiful textures and colours with the perfect amount of pizzazz. The bedroom above? Absolute PERFECTION. 

(photos: Lori Andrews, Blynda Da Costa, Martin Tessler)

Looking for some hump day inspiration? Look no further because I’ve got some for you. Feast your eyes on the wonderful interior photography of Dane Tashima.