Displaying posts labeled "Outdoors"

My sister came across the website of Fig Landscapes (a landscape design and construction company based in Byron Bay and Sydney) recently and sent it along to me because she thought it would be inspirational for the huge landscaping project my husband and I have begun on our property. She was right! In our backyard I wanted to do a crushed stone path leading to a BBQ pad, a raised vegetable garden and a gazebo, with plants growing along its edge. This Woolooware project has done exactly that and it’s beautiful, along with the rest of the space – especially love the fire area.

“An indoor-outdoor space filled with art and soft textures to create a sanctuary closely linked to the earth.” That’s what Californian interior designer Corinne Mathern wanted to create with this renovation of a 3 bedroom adobe villa in Mission Cannon, Santa Barbara. An oasis of calm (with a touch of brutalism), monochromatic and minimalist, earthy and sophisticated.

“An owner-architect’s renovation has transformed this hallmark Victorian terrace into a striking contemporary retreat of exquisite style and design sophistication.” Real estate speak for a graphic black and white home that packs a punch within its small footprint. Favourite bits? The kitchen and the courtyard. Link here while it lasts.

My house is in uproar. Dust and paint drips, kitchen contents in the dining room, clothes racks in the living room. I’m in the throes of a major renovation and all I want to do is escape. Alas I can only take a virtual getaway but what a destination! The stunning stone masseria in Sicily called Dimora delle Balze has eleven hotel rooms in total. I can’t make up my mind which one I like the most but seeing this is a daydream I can linger long enough to try them all. Meet you in the gardens for a long lunch extending into the warm evening.

Another beautiful project (bought and since sold) by the talented team at Les Ensembliers. This house was built on 4 acres of land, surrounded by manicured gardens. After reviewing this project, Les Ensembliers decided to only paint and decorate this home instead of renovating it and risk loosing its soul. The intent was to sell the house but, once the decor took shape, they fell in love with it. The decor inspiration of this project started with the dining room painting which, for Les Ensembliers, represents Giverny and its true character and connection to gardens. Every element of the house was chosen for its references to Monet’s work. This project was about bringing the English garden spirit, elegance, simplicity, and ease inside the house. White painted floors in a old country home is a simple, yet very effective solution, to create an elegant backdrop.