
In the midst of a cedar forest on Lac Gate in Quebec is this wonderful modern chalet designed by Montréal-based architecture firm BOOM TOWN. It is absolutely stunning inside and out. I can imagine enjoying the lake and the outdoor spaces in the summer and hunkering down and hibernating in style and comfort in the winter. (Photos: Angus McRitchie)
















If you would like to participate in the Monday’s pets on furniture series please send photos, your name, location and a brief description to kim[@]desiretoinspire[.]net, or hashtag your photos #DTIpetsonfurniture. Thanks!
div>
I snapped these last weekend when my younger sister had the family over for birthday celebrations. Her new cat Zoe hanging out on the stairs (not really furniture I know but it was all I could get of her) and Spencer lounging in the retro living room.
And one my sister sent me of Spencer, also on the stairs.
Of course, a contribution from me. I took this photo yesterday of Felix while he snoozed on the kitty-bird-watching console table.

Yes you read that title correctly. Christmas issue! Already? Eeeck! I must admit I haven’t even thought about the holidays yet but perhaps these sneak peeks from the Christmas issue of Inside Out, out today, will give me the nudge I need. I’ll let Matilda Duffercy, Senior and Social Editor of the magazine, explain what’s between the pages.
As the year has galloped past, I’m emailing you to let you know about our November issue (hitting newsagents and digital outlets on Monday), which also happens to be our Christmas edition! There are lots of fantastic ideas for getting into the festive spirit in whatever degree you see fit. Even if you’re more into the entertaining angle of this time of year, then you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Our cover home is really beautiful. The home manages to exist as a country-meets-coastal cottage, and the backdrop just perfect to showcase our take on a merry & bright Christmas. I’ve also included a pic of the dining room to showcase the owner, Lee’s (of @mavendolls) fresh take on classic style. This feature also offers lots of easy craft projects for cheery touches during this season. Cover and dining room styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay. Photography by Maree Homer.


Our clever style editor Jessica Hanson has also pulled together her edit of the best decorative touches for a design-savvy Christmas, as well as all the best cards and wraps for rocking gifts! Christmas branch and cards styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Paper branch made by Benja Harney.

We asked seven local design talents for their spin on a traditional Christmas wreath and the results are gorgeous! Here’s ceramicist Ingrid Tuft’s beautiful design. Wreath styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Wreath made by ceramicist Ingrid Tufts.

Now, let’s get to the food. V. important! We’ve pulled together ideas for the all-important ham (of course) but also the smaller bites that can work for all sorts of occasions before and after December 25th. The cheese, the nibbles, the anti-pasti that are perfect for guests dropping in and low-key get-togethers. There’s lots of info on assembling the perfect cheese boards and the like so you’ll pull off easy entertaining with flair. Entertaining Food styling by Kristen Wilson. Styling Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper.
I love this issue!
The November issue, out today, looks amazing but don’t fret if you aren’t in Australia. You can read along on Zinio, Google Play, the Apple Newsstand and Nook.

When an interior designer in South Africa gets to finally purchase and design his own home, you know he’s going to go a little wild and push some boundaries. This 100+ year old Victorian in Robertson, a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, is everything it should be, thanks to the talent and audacity of Etienne Hanekom. Bold, eclectic and fun. I absolutely love everything about this home (minus the mounted taxidermy), especially the mix of classic and modern, and dark colour palette. Via VISI, photos by Jac de Villiers.













EPIC BATHROOM!!! I want to stare at this the rest of the day.

This marble is unbelievably beautiful. And with a thin profile it could not be more perfect in this kitchen.

There is nothing fancy about this dining room but the combo of the Thonet chairs, pale yellow walls, and light fixture are simply yummy, and then you look up and BAM!

These chunky stairs. That glass framed wall. The tumbling block tile. YES YES YES.

If I ever decide I want a graphic backsplash, THIS IS IT.

Those chairs make me itch, but other than that this little reading area is fabulous.

Those mirrors with the faucets mounted on them are SO GREAT!

Staircase views to die for.

I’ve never wanted to play the piano….until now. That light fixture is UN FREAKING REAL!!!!! Seriously I would trade that for my current one in a heartbeat.

ALL THE WINE. I usually hate wine storage spaces but this is classy.
Hats off to Luigi Rosselli for these memorable spaces. And if you can’t get enough there is more here, here and here.