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Butler Armsden Architects, based out of San Francisco, creates homes that make me want to weep – for joy. Spectacular modern design yet comfortable and casual. I love that they can modernize a home yet keep traditional touches intact as a reference to its history. (I think they had me at the chartreuse Saarinen Womb chair). 

The other day we received the following email from Jennifer: As a long time follower of your blog, I know you do real estate stalkings. This is my home that I just finished restoring last year. It was built in 1917, nothing had been done to it, well I think, ever!!. It was scheduled for demolition when we bought it. Completely dilapidated, falling over….It took us almost 2 years to renovate it. The tears, the joy, the work….ugh…but the end product I am pretty proud of. We have just put it on the market today and I would love it if you would post some photos or the link! Any of your followers up for a move to Texas??? Now, it takes alot for me to be rendered speechless when it comes to interiors. This one did just that. And when I came to I made my husband come over to my laptop and showed him each and every photo while gasping and pointing. I’m not sure what I’m more shocked about – that this house was supposed to be levelled or that Jen is selling it. (Although she says they just finished one across the street and will send photos when they’re moved in and have it all decked out – can’t wait!). Listing link HERE. 

Cassiano Anjo was a journalist until the turn of a potter’s wheel changed his life. “What can I say about myself as a potter? I have so much fun doing it, and started intuitively a few years ago, after attending a ceramic workshop with a ceramicist that does beautiful work with paperclay. I guess I cannot tell how exactly my work is going to evolve, it’s kind of early, but I would visualize clean, organic forms, mostly in porcelain.” Beauty in the pots, beauty in the studio. What a wonderful space to create. Earthy, peaceful, rich yet simple, layers of texture but always the smooth beauty of the clay. Cassiano’s studio is in Uberaba, Brazil.

I thought those of you looking for a little kitchen inspiration might enjoy the following kitchens from the folks at Dovetail~Workers in Wood. They are based in Hampshire, UK, and obviously take pride in their work and create dream kitchens for each one of their clients. I love the details they’ve included in some of their kitchens – from a compost drawer to a little niche for trays. Check those out after the jump. First up, some kitchens that caught my eye.

I was stoked to get my hands on a new book (out November 1st, from Clarkson Potter) by Celerie Kemble called Black and White (And a Bit in Between). Being a HUGE fan of black and white decor, this book was completely for me. It’s got a bit of everything, from classic to rustic to über modern. And I was pleasantly surprised to find some of my favourite black and white spaces – including photo #3 below (which Celerie also loves, as she has had it hung above her desk for years). There’s even a photo of Celerie’s to-die-for bathroom (photo #2 below). This book is a keeper, and I would highly recommend it to anyone with a love for this colour scheme. Get yourself a copy here or here (among others).

For Celerie Kemble and her acclaimed designer peers, the possibilities of black and white home decor are endless and suit any aesthetic. In BLACK AND WHITE (AND A BIT IN BETWEEN), Celerie welcomes readers into more than 75 homes, sharing advice on choosing the best paints and finishes; adding patterns, accessories, and collections; building an entire room scheme based on inspiration from nature; and even choosing the perfect accent colors.

P.S. More photos from the book and some Ottawa news after the jump

And for some quick local news – Mike from The Modern Shop emailed me that he is having a HUGE sale at the end of November. As I am a lighting whore and his shop sells all of my favourite brands, I’m booking it in my calendar. I think I’ll stock pile some fixtures (and maybe yet another chair) for the new house. 🙂