Not the 19th century radical socialist French uprising (OK I’m just showing off here). No it’s a Parisian apartment by LA based design firm Commune. Open plan living unified and delineated by oak joinery and a fabulous floor tile. Very French in a very Californian way. Stylish, chic, contemporary living.

When did “traditional” become a dirty word? Why are we obsessed with boho scandi, mid-century modern, crisp concrete minimalism or funky inner-city hipster cool? This traditional yet modern Santa Monica house by architect Tim Barber is the perfect family home. Stylish and sophisticated but also practical and child friendly. And as much as I like the interiors it’s the exterior and outdoor spaces that have me rethinking my mid-century boho hipster scandi minimalism.

London’s most inspiring spaces and hosts. That’s the claim made by The Plum Guide who hand pick the best of the best vacation rentals in the UK capital. The most beautiful designs, the coolest locations, the best hosts, those special homes you know you really want to stay in. The Plum Guide makes sure the spaces are amazing and then send in their photographers and stylists to make sure the listing images have you salivating. Don’t take my word for it. Visit the site and check them out in full screen. Like Swing, a two bedroom warehouse apartment in Shoreditch, home to a photographic artist and an architect. I know I say it all the time but this time I really mean it… I’d never want to leave.

In my dreams I live in a farmhouse surrounded by vineyards. It’s a simple but oh so stylish pile. Rustic yet sophisticated, traditional yet modern, surrounded by friends and family, celebrating the beauty in life. My dreams might just look a little like Healdsburg Ranch by San Francisco-based design firm Jute.

I’m becoming more and more fascinated by small space living and this tiny Italian apartment has caught my eye. Exposed brick, concrete floor, stylish kitchen with ample storage and mezzanine sleeping above the bathroom and laundry. 30 fabulous square metres by Milan-based Cristina Meschi Architetto.

Photography by Michele Morosi