Sometimes it’s either black or white. You either like it or you don’t. It’s either hard and cold and impersonal or it’s clean and slick and modern. It’s monumental or monstrosity. Sometimes it’s also just a little grey. Although I couldn’t move in and be truly happy there  are elements of this Melbourne home that I really like. The gardens, the concrete floors, the art, the space. Then the little voice in my head goes”nooooo… not for me”. Does it tick the boxes for you or do you want to close the door on it? I’ve been real estate stalking again. The link is here while it lasts.

Welcome to the oh so chic showroom and offices of Julia Buckingham Edelmann of Buckingham ID in Chicago. When Julia sent over photos recently I was green with envy. Never mind working here I’d move in and call it home. I love the stark white industrial meets sophisticated urban living vibe. Please interior design gods grant me that chandelier, the sculptures, the lucite chairs, Julia’s office and the conference table and chairs. Congratulations on a fabulous space Julia!

It’s all about the light. I know we say it over and over but these pictures from the portfolio of photographer Hector Sanchez prove it. These are wonderful rooms that don’t need the glare of the spotlight to shine. I think the blue undertones that Hector captures in his shots are beautiful. Cool and elegant. Speaking of cool and elegant how about that lounging nook in the bathroom! Indulgent.

Up a winding lane in a village nestled beneath the Swiss Alps. Climb a rustic stair and… wow! This amazing renovation is by Christian Speck of Formzone. Lashings of rough and just enough luxe. It’s sleek and minimalist modern meets stone monolith and I love it. Age old beams and so fresh you can smell it pine. I dream of a view of the alps like that. A remarkable house in a remarkable part of the world.

I couldn’t resist. I needed more garden inspiration from Rick Eckersley and his team. A contemporary Aussie garden? Why not this one as a perfect example. See more of Rick’s work in the post below.