Iced Vo Vo's

Three Classicists ...

2012-03-09T11:34:00.000Z

{image and video from here}

The three classicists are three designers who work in the classical style and have been friends for many years.

They are Ben Pentreath, George Sumarez Smith and Francis Terry.

This collaborative drawing was created on 10th May 2010 and was started around 10am and finished around 6pm.

I'm so inspired by this video, please watch it and enjoy.

wishing you a wonderful weekend ...

What's inspiring me today ....

2012-03-08T10:10:00.000Z

... these beautiful spring images

(I love the styling by Lara Hutton)

{from Country Style Australia via Dustjacket}

ps. i can hear the birds chirping as i type this

Eclectic house in Marseille ...

2012-03-07T07:00:00.000Z

this house belongs to designer Fabienne Marselle Collombel,

it is filled with travel souvenirs

enjoy ...

colourful, bright and eclectic

right up my alley ...

hope your week is off to a great start

{images: marie claire maison}

High Style with gloss

2012-03-06T10:37:00.000Z

The high gloss finishes, sumptuous velvets and wonderful textures that Jackie Astier uses in her Upper East End Manhattan apartment has me gasping...

Drooling over these beautiful turquoise upholstered 40's French dining chairs and the 10 coats of custom lacquer painted wall

Amazing 11foot Dunbar sofa and 1970s brass Mastercraft cocktail table (found on ebay) with a Damien Hirst etching ... wow!

in love with the Vladimir Kagan sofas paired with Karl Springer cocktail tables and skins

my favourite items in this room are the pair of circa-1940 William Haines chairs and the watercolours inspired by André Le Nôtre

loving the Calacatta marble floor in the kitchen and the vintage industrial light fixture

isn't the tufted velvet bed head amazing? Paired with the 1960s Danish settee

high gloss shine, from the brass and lacquer Mastercraft cabinet and floors!

I love to show interesting interiors on this blog ... but this one has just wow-ed me!

This apartment has brightened this very dull grey Tuesday morning ...

{photography eric piasecki for elle decor}

A Tutor Manor House

2012-03-05T10:18:00.000Z

Butlers Court is a typical 16th century Cotswold manor house built c. 1550. It was extended several times over subsequent centuries and one time played host to Charles 1.

Recently it has undergone a stunning 21st century revival. It is the home of interior designer Pippa Paton.

Pippa opened up a series of small rooms to give plenty of light, with a flowing living kitchen and dining space

Embracing the lack of light in the formal sitting room, Pippa painted it black, deciding it would become their evening room, making it a very atmospheric place to be at night

Pippa uses large, unexpected and unusual things in spaces to get "a better effect"

Changing careers to an Interior Designer (she was previously a Group Finance Director for an advertising agency in London), Pippa opened her own company in 2005. Within the grounds of Butler Court was an old coach house which now houses her design studio
...

A light bright design studio, with whitewashed walls and bleached floorboards for creativity

Butlers Court has transitioned from a post- medieval house to a modern marvel.

The backdrop of smooth plaster, mighty oak beams and exposed stonework all work alongside antique and vintage finds with Italian designer accessories and contrasting textures and colours.

{all images from the white book essential interiors Dec 2011}

Spring style ...

2012-03-04T11:30:00.000Z

I'm really loving this vintage dress worn by Vogue Turkeys Fashion Editor/Stylist, Ecu Sukan.

Hope you're having a wonderful Sunday!

{image: Citizen Couture}

Henry's Attic ...

2012-03-02T07:30:00.000Z

With a mix of eclectic furniture ranging from Ikea to Arne Jacobsen and Phillipe Starck, this apartment housed in a 1886 building has fantastic views over Copenhagen ... and thats what drew Henry to its location

the multifunctional use of this sofa can be folded down and used as a bed

The kitchen has a raw industrial look with stainless steel cabinets from Ikea and benches made by a blacksmith

The eclectic mix of furniture and the abundance of light streaming through this apartment makes it very appealing!

{all images from sköna hem}

Have a great weekend ...

A little French air in Helsinki ...

2012-03-01T05:30:00.000Z

this interior is a cocktail of different moods ...

love the huge Austrian chandelier designed by Emil Steijnar in the 50s

vintage gown by Dior hanging on the door, Venetian mirror on the wall

bespoke acrylic table creates modernity in the past with a funky Ericofon still in use

this old cabinet found in an antique shop, is full of kitchen accesories

All photos by RENÉ GRANSTRÖM

for sköna hem

Singapore Colonial mixed with Manhattan Glamour ...

2012-02-29T06:00:00.000Z

... this is how Chris Pearson describes this Sydney apartment

which belongs to Ben David of bed-linen company Kas and his partner

I'm in love with the emerald green sofa from George Smith, LA and the floral rug from The Rug Company

the courtyard is filled with lush green palms, evoking colonial Singapore

the massive oak doors were salvaged from a French chateau and were craned into the apartment!

I wouldn't mind a Singapore sling cocktail right now ...

{all images scanned from Belle}

Inspirational dining room ...

2012-02-28T10:50:00.000Z

I just can't get enough of this dining room belonging to Brooke Shields which was featured in AD.

The cognac leather upholstered Jansen regency chairs (similar ones available from 1stdibs here), I can only imagine have had some interesting behinds on them. The divine vintage Ralph Lauren Home marble-top pedestal table, and the stunning Les Lointaines wallpaper from Zuber ... plus those wide planked floors stained in Palm Beach Black from Porters Paints (also known as Sydney Harbour Paints).

I'm drooling ...

Two chairs in a space ...

2012-02-27T06:00:00.000Z

Styled by Shannon Fricke via DJ

via

Hi everyone, I hope you all had a wonderful weekend, today I'm going to talk about the rule of three when it comes to interior design.

The basic idea of the rule is that details and objects that are arranged or grouped in odd numbers are more appealing, memorable and effective than even numbered pairings. While it is easier to create symmetry by balancing elements in twos, odd numbers create harmony and force movement and visual interest.

Even though there are two chairs in each of these spaces, creating symmetry, they are still grouped as an arrangement of three pieces of furniture .... and don't they look fantastic!

Spring Trend: Colour

2012-02-25T05:00:00.000Z

Source: Uploaded by user via Marina on Pinterest

Hope you're having a great Saturday ...

Masculine simplicity

2012-02-24T06:00:00.000Z

{Image via}

Even though I detest showering in a bath tub (much prefer a walk in shower),

I love the feel of this very masculine bathroom.

The colour palette and simplicity have won me over!

enjoy your weekend ...

Wallpaper : Owlet

2012-02-23T08:46:00.001Z

Isn't this adorable creature too cute for words?

There's been a real fascination for owls in interior design of late

and this little guy by Catherine Cazalet is the newest addition by Turner Pocock Cazalet Wallpaper.

I was recently sent a sample in the colourway Hague Blue on warm white,

I love the way this owlet just casually swings from a circular pattern of naturalistic vine leaves

creating a fluid motion. It echoes a classical approach to design, but is both contemporary and elegant.

Hope you are all having a lovely Thursday.

Oh Oscar ...

2012-02-22T06:30:00.000Z

some gorgeousness from Oscar de la Renta ...

Source: tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com via Marina on Pinterest

Source: dustjacketattic.blogspot.com via Marina on Pinterest

There are a lot of Oscar de la Renta shots doing the rounds of blogs, but he truly is the master!

Kitsch + Modern + Vintage

2012-02-21T06:30:00.000Z

This former mill in Marseilles France, has been converted into a real temple of recycling.

The designer, Mitri Hourani, is also a prototype maker and set designer, hence the original interior ...

The lighting options are very theatrical ...

deliciously kitsch objects provide modern and vintage warmth to the old mill

I love how the ceiling and walls of rough stone have been kept in their original state to preserve the authenticity of the mill

The kitchen wall was painted black to make room for decoration ...

photographs by Christophe Dugied for Marie Claire Maison

Artist: Thérèse Theodas

2012-02-20T06:00:00.000Z

Remember when I posted a few weeks back about my weekend away at Chewton Glen, well I forgot to tell you about the beautiful sculptures that were on display throughout the hotel by Thérèse Theodas.

Thérèse's work is exhibited extensively in selected hotels and galleries around the UK and her bronze sculptures are modeled from life.

I fell in love with Girl Kneeling and here she sits proudly in my entrance way on an antique round table. If you'd like to read more about Thérèse Theodas click here.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend ...

Inspirational Friday ...

2012-02-17T13:08:00.001Z

{a dozen roses coming into bloom from my sweetheart}

I looked at my desk this morning and thought ... 'out of control!'
With a very busy week coming to an end (I'm working on an exciting new project), I think I seriously need to get my desk back into some order!
It doesnt help when I keep ordering books from Amazon (you should see the other half of my two desks!!)
I also visited the 20/21 International Art Fair at the Royal College of Art yesterday, a fair that is more accessible in price and content and great for new collectors. It runs until Feb 19, if you are in London.

Fashion week also starts today in London ... so much happening!
Have a wonderful weekend all .......

Colourful Spaces and Places ...

2012-02-16T09:29:00.000Z

From a glam room (1) to the cliffs of Cinque Terre (2)

Jimmie Martin and Rick Schultz's London apartment (3) to the Cathedral Sagrada Familia in Barcelona Spain (4)

Aren't colourful places and spaces amazing?

{1, 2, 3, 4}

Love ...

2012-02-14T08:38:00.000Z

I love this

available here

Have a fabulously romantic day!

♡

Artist: Richard Ryan

2012-02-13T05:00:00.000Z

London Street

London Victoria Station

Parliament

Savile Row

I'm loving this portfolio of LONDON by Richard Ryan

visit his website for more of his work

{All images Richard Ryan via here}

How to warm up a cold looking room ...

2012-02-10T06:30:00.000Z

vintageluxe

this definitely is the perfect mix of industrial + feminine chic

don't you think?

I love the look of polished concrete, tiles or any other hard surface,

but it can look quite cold and sterile

The colours added to this room give it just the right amount of warmth,

plus it's such a girly space ...

Modern Scandinavian chandelier

2012-02-08T08:30:00.000Z

Muuto E27 socket suspension light

I'm loving the simplicity of the E27 which can be used as a single light source, in pairs,

rows or even clusters.

Available here in five different colours.

Fashion designer : Antonio Marras

2012-02-07T07:30:00.000Z

Since I havent done a fashion post in a while

I though I would showcase Antonio Marras's S/S12 collection,

plus the winter blues are starting to set in and we need to be reminded that spring will be here soon ...

I didn't know much about Antonio except that he is also the creative director of Kenzo

(has been since 2003),

however this spring/summer collection was very inspiring

loving the attention to detail

His collections are infused with references to his origins,

(just like his home that I featured in the last post)

that are cultivated, emotional and romantic.

These are some of my favourites.

what do you think?

xx

via Cola di Rienzo Milano ....

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000Z

Remember the image I last posted of the modern sofa against an old plastered wall?

well, I found some more images that belong to that villa

This is the space belonging to the Milanese fashion designer Antonio Marras

Born in Sardinia Italy, Antonia has taken elements from his birthplace and transfered them to Milan, with the help of architect Stefania Beltrame.

Enjoy ...

love when it hits you .....

limit when the love .....

(wish I could read it all)

all images via at casa

I love the way Italians have a knack of adding just the right modern pieces of furniture
to a very old building.

white kitchen + colour

2012-02-05T06:30:00.000Z

sunday inspiration ...

via

a white kitchen brought to life by adding fabulous colour

♥ it!

Lovely styling ...

2012-02-04T13:02:00.000Z

styled by Jenny Juurinen via riazzoli

styled by interior designer amy morris via DJ

styled by jason grant for fenton & fenton

some fabulous styling ... with some quirky elements

to see more of my favourites take a look at

my pinterest boards

There's something about an unfinished wall ...

2012-02-03T05:30:00.000Z

via room of creativity

wall from The Kings Speech filmed at 33 Portland Place

via

I dont know why, but an unfinished wall, or an old wall with many layers, really appeals to me.
In the first image, I love the way a modern piece of furniture is placed along side what looks like an old warehouse.

The second image is the famous wall at 33 Portland Place London W1 (a magnificent 18th century residence built by Robert Adams) used in the filming of The Kings Speech. In one area of the room, the wall was covered in wallpaper infused with oil, which had then been half-scraped, half-burned off. The textures and layers and layers of paint, wax, lacquer and paper were really important to show the stripping back of a persons emotional baggage. Eve Stewart, the production designer, loved the mottled, peeling effect so much that she decided to reproduce it across the whole wall. The house is also available for hire, as I found out recently from my daughter, who's friend celebrated her 18th birthday there recently!

The third image is the inspiration of the wall in The Kings Speech by famed British production designer, Eve Stewart (read more about the set design here)

A little bit of trivia, if you didn't know it already!

I hope you have a very inspiring weekend!

Inspirational rooms ....

2012-02-02T06:00:00.000Z

Some beautiful interiors shot be photographer Mark Gregory Peters

inspiring me today.

Plastic fantastic ...

2012-02-01T09:35:00.001Z

How fun are these products ...

agua de mar restaurante and lounge

Spa at Baltic Beach Hotel

This delightful French company acrila makes 'smart and modern' acrylic furniture. They can be used in a variety of applications, from commercial to domestic residential. This is only a small snippet of what they do ... for more, do check out their website. They also do a great range of children's furniture.

Another fun company I spied at the Maison & Objet.

Clean and Elegant ...

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000Z

I first saw this image on Pinterest and was attracted to the elegant simplicity, but also thought what a wonderful way to store all your magazines.

I have since found more images of this elegant Belgian home ...

{Milk Magazine via}

I hope you all had a wonderfully relaxing weekend and ready to tackle a new week.

xx

Cool lighting from the Maison et Objet

2012-01-27T00:30:00.000Z

The number of really cool lighting ideas that were on display at the M & Objet were too numerous to show, but here is a small snippet ...

industrial pendants were very popular

this company, ango, had a very tactile display of floor and table lamps, as well as pendants ... the hanging pendants above were made from empty silk cocoons

great idea for illuminating a large empty wall space

looking closer at these lights, this simple idea was made from a fire retardant fabric draped over a wire frame ... easy to do and very effective ... these pendants surrounded the JNL Collection stand ... very cool

my favourite lighting display company was Blackbody which uses OLED technology,

each lamp plate was about 5mm thick!

the company produces lighting solutions based on a new lighting philosophy, which encourages creativity and emotion

when you stood underneath this display, it felt like you were in a scene from Avatar ... very cool!!

Blackbody

some other great lighting companys were:

Karman

Atelier Thierry Vidè

suzusan

via

well thats my wrap of the Maison et objet

I will miss you Paris

until next time ....

happy weekend my friends

{all other images belong to Iced VoVos}

Maison & Objet + Paris

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000Z

Jardin des Tuileries

My friend Janet and I decided to stay in the heart of Paris at the Hotel Brighton and make the easy commute to the Parc des Expositions for the Maison & Objet.

I love the app AutoStitch for the iphone, which enables you to create a panoramic image ... this was the view from our room, which was directly across the road from the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries
(unfortunately I can't enlarge it, as it will not fit across my blog page) ... it was the perfect location to be in Paris

Saying the Maison & Objet is exhausting and overwhelming is an understatement. Trying to tackle the vast halls of this exhibition definitely needs planning before you arrive! Photography (unless you are press) is prohibited, but I managed to snap some shots on my iphone, after asking politely ...

great detail ... striped velour fabric

the floral exhibitions were stunning ...

I love the extended bed-head in this bedroom ... it definitely makes the bed look much larger than it really is ...

... and the mix of different patterned fabrics used in the upholstery

isn't this a great sofa?

Tomorrow I'll show you some fabulous lighting.

{all photographs belong to Iced VoVos}

Back from Paris ...

2012-01-25T12:02:00.000Z

Pyramide du Louvre

Palais du Louvre

place de vendome

I'm back from Paris and just wanted to say a quick hello today and tell you how much I really enjoyed my first experience of the Maison & Objet.

It was truly magnificent, but utterly exhausting,

and cant wait to go back again!

I was truly fortunate to spend my birthday there also (which was extra special) with my friend Janet,

but must rush and will be back tomorrow to share more!

hope you're having a great Wednesday ...

{all images belong to Iced VoVos and have been manipulated by using the App picfx for the iphone}

A pop of colour ...

2012-01-21T07:00:00.011Z

Lindsey Lang via

image 2-5
Greg Natale via

via Pinterest

A little splash of colour to brighten your day.

I'm off to Paris tomorrow for the Maison & Objet .... so excited!

deep in the forest ....

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000Z

don't you just love this?

have a fab weekend

image via

Source: franklyesoteric.tumblr.com via Marina on Pinterest

Eclectic + cosy ...

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000Z

source via bohemian homes

a nice place to lounge around in and catch up with friends ...

doesn't it exude such warmth?

what do you think?

Vintage maps ...

2012-01-18T09:16:00.000Z

country living

Having had a passion to travel from a young age, vintage maps have always been a great fascination to me.

There are so many ways you can use vintage maps when it comes to decorating, just look at the images above for a little inspiration ...

I love the last two images depicting a cozy Martha's Vineyard guestroom where at first glance, the walls look like a textured fresco.

mid morning ...

2012-01-17T10:54:00.000Z

latte + chocolate fudge cake with cream and butterscotch syrup

I know ... its only 10.50am

... but well worth it

Have a great Tuesday!

{image belongs to Iced VoVos}

Getaway weekend + special celebration: Chewton Glen

2012-01-16T12:03:00.002Z

Today my gorgeous husband is celebrating a very special birthday and we decided to spend the weekend at the beautiful Chewton Glen Hotel and spa in the New Forest, Hampshire.

The weekend was perfect, crisp blue skies with frost covered lawns.

All the rooms were delightfully appointed ...

The beautiful spa has been voted in the top 10 best spas in the UK by Conte Nast Traveller 2011

and we took great advantage of it!

The tasting menu with the accompanying wine at Vetiver was spectacular

A little indulgence for the very special man in my life ...

I hope you all had a lovely weekend also.

Images 1, 2, 11 belong to Iced VoVos

All the rest from Chewton Glen website

Bathroom luxury ...

2012-01-14T06:00:00.003Z

Source: Marc Michaels

Can you imagine luxuriating in a bathroom like this one?

I will be this weekend (not quite this kind) ... I'll tell you more on Monday!

Happy relaxing weekend...

Some lovely accessories ...

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000Z

I know its still winter here in the northern hemisphere, but when I was in Sydney over the christmas holidays, I always like to pop into the homeware store Papaya, as I've blogged before here.
I'm always on the look out for accessories for our beach house ... and you can always find something there.
The beautiful wood carved urn stole my heart (image I manipulated using the iphone app ColorSplash).

Below are some other things that caught my eye:

naughts and crosses anyone?

a very 'beachy' bread basket

{all images belong to Iced VoVo's}

A lovely garden Room : Jason Grant

2012-01-11T11:47:00.000Z

Great styling from Australian Jason Grant with photographer Felix Forest

for Fenton and Fenton

I hope you're all having a lovely Wednesday

The sun is shining in London!

Manhattan "wow" apartment ...

2012-01-10T06:00:00.002Z

{Sourced via song of style}

Isn't this Manhattan apartment belonging to Ashley Stark, that was featured in Elle Decor delightful!

I'm in love with the tree trunk dining table from the Groundwork Group and lumiere by Jean de Merry in the first image.

Double take ...

2012-01-09T06:00:00.013Z

I first came across these images on the glamourai blog and I just had to post about it myself.

HIGH COST $12,196

LOW COST $1,999

HIGH COST $17,901

LOW COST $4,285

HiGH COST $42,461

LOW COST $12,282

Good design can come at any cost and it can clearly be seen from the photos above (that have been sourced from style at home's high/low feature) that if you do a little digging ... wonderful things can be found ... and at a great price!

Each of these exact rooms have been styled on a high and a low budget

Can you tell the difference?

Natural light ...

2012-01-06T07:00:00.016Z

Living etc

I'm just loving the light ... artwork ... and furniture in this room!

Having just returned from a fews weeks in Australia, I keep forgetting how

abundant the light is there and the lack of it in the UK.

This space is really speaking to me today!

Have a great weekend folks

Welcome 2012 ...

2012-01-05T15:21:00.000Z

image from here

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Isn't this the cutest photo?

I'm excited to be going to Paris this January for the Maison & Objet exhibition,

which is why this photo inspired me today.

I hope at their age I will still be able to and want to travel around the world!

I hope 2012 will be an inspiring year for everyone.

Aussie Beach Christmas ...

2011-12-12T15:55:00.001Z

The blog was a little neglected last week ... and I'm afraid it will be neglected a little more until January.

You see, this year I'm a little frantic, as I'm completely not organised for our trip back home to Australia for the holidays in a few days time.

An aussie Christmas is a little different to a northern hemisphere Christmas ... hence the delightful Flickr images I have found depicting a beach Christmas.

I'm quite excited to be going 'home' for Christmas (even though home is London currently). I dont think you'll ever find an aussie who doesn't call Australia 'home' ... no matter how long they've lived overseas!

It's been two years since I've visited ... so I'm quite excited to see family and friends.

If you want to read more about where I'll be spending my Christmas, click here

I always promise I will try and post when I'm away ... but it never happens!

Therefore, I will sign off today and wish all my readers and followers the warmest of Christmases and the happiest New Year ... wherever in the world you might be spending it.

SEE YOU ALL IN THE NEW YEAR!

✽✽✽

{Image from Flickr 1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

Great authors ....

2011-12-03T10:11:00.000Z

A quiet corner to read a book ...

How can you not be inspired to read something from the great authors,

with this very cool writers wallpaper from Mr Perswall

xx

Things inspiring me today ...

2011-12-02T06:00:00.007Z

very cool ...

a stylish getaway ...

fun hair ...

VERY ORANGE

what do you think?

Have a fun weekend!

{image 1, 2, 3}

Comfy furry things ....

2011-11-30T10:40:00.001Z

Image 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Check out my other favourite furry things on Pinterest here

Lilly Marthe Ebener Collection ...

2011-11-29T00:30:00.004Z

I've just discovered these lovely eco-designed, alpaca wool, handmade garments by the Vogue editor turned designer, Lilly Marthe Ebener.

Based in Paris, her collections are beautiful ...

She is inspired by the colours, sights, sounds and tastes of different countries and cultures, shaped by her work as a fashion editor.

With the temperature dropping rapidly here in London,

I think my favourite is the yellow/mustard hat/scarf (image 2)
Which do you prefer?

Her collections are not only for women, but also includes a beautiful range for babies, including clothing, blankets, booties, scarfs and mittens ... see here

Do check out the website ... the photography is stunning!

Boutiques are available here

Hope your week has started well!

Making an entrance ...

2011-11-28T06:00:00.007Z

via Pinterest

via GlamourDrops

via

image unknown

Donna Karens NY apartment via

First impressions don't necessarily say a lot about a person

but, first impressions in a homes entrance certainly does!

Which one is your favourite?

Or do you like them all.

Didn't the weekend just fly by ...

Just plain lovely ...

2011-11-25T15:18:00.001Z

via DJA

elegant ...

simple ...

serene ...

happy friday

have a gorgeous weekend everyone ...

Amazing presence of the chandelier ...

2011-11-23T07:41:00.000Z

Coté Est via Haute Design

Abigail Ahern via The Selby

Neo Baroque Chandelier- Abigail Ahern

Côte Sud Fev via Haute Design

The right chandelier can really make a presence if used in the right kind of room. It can certainly give it that wow factor!

Above are rooms where I feel the chandeliers that were chosen also did something special for that room. I am currently loving classic chandeliers that have been wrapped around by a sheer shade (image1) and also the fabulous one by Moooi here.

I'm also loving the white glass dome chandelier that has been used in this period room with the modern Knoll - Saarinen tulip table and chairs ... and I've always loved the neo-baroque wire chandelier, which I first came across many years ago in the Sydney homeware store Papaya (I have no idea if it is still available there now), but I do know Abigail Ahern has them here in London.

Papaya homeware + Sparkly things ...

2011-11-21T07:00:00.003Z

{images 1-4 taken by me in 2009 @ Papaya Westfield Bondi Junction, Australia}

When I lived in Sydney, one of my favourite homeware stores was Papaya. They always had such beautiful objects to decorate your home with. Christmas time was especially fun to visit, as the store always sparkled. The images above were taken by me the last time I was there in 2009. I purposely blurred the images to give them a feeling of living somewhere cold and misty (which Australia definitely isn't during Christmas!)

{images 5,6,7,8 Papaya Christmas Catalogue}

I haven't spent Christmas in Australia for 2 years now and it is definitely time to go back and visit family and friends again. See my last post of an Aussie beach Christmas here.

The decorations above are from the latest Papaya catalogue, which I might happen to visit again and maybe pick up something when I'm there ;) ;)

I thought it was time to start feeling a little Christmas'y ...

2011-11-18T09:52:00.001Z

via

Another week has flown by ...

Aren't these lace up boots super cute?

The sneak peak into this lovely sitting room looks so inviting.

It's all those luxurious textures!

Thank you for all your lovely comments this week.

Have a super weekend dear friends.

Who says glam can't be masculine?

2011-11-17T07:00:00.004Z

This very glamorous NY apartment was designed by axis mundi for a male client. As space was a premium, everything was cleverly thought out and was definitely given the wow factor!

Red is the predominant colour throughout.

I love the cube seating around the dining table, Moooi furniture, gorgeous rugs and stunning lighting ( did you notice the gun lamps by Stark?).
Mind you, I'd take the Takashi Murakami artwork too!

Very glam ...

What do you think?

Too much or fabulous!

xx

{all images from here via desire to inspire}

Bright + Dark and Moody ...

2011-11-15T18:46:00.002Z

Windsor Smith via

love the ottoman come table, architectural columns and splashes of tangerine red

via

rustic meets modern

image unknown

sexy, dark and moody ....

Don't you love these rooms?

Cool finds this weekend ...

2011-11-13T18:58:00.000Z

love the textures

Isn't this a cool docking station for your iphone?

great filoplume cardigan

All from the latest catalogue of Anthropologie

Strike a pose ...

2011-11-11T06:00:00.013Z

{All images Copyright Carla Coulson}

One of my favourite Aussie photographers is Carla Coulson, a real inspirational woman, who not only left her corporate job, but also her homeland Australia, to pursue her dream, where she discovered her love for photography. She has written three books of her own (which I have) and collaborated with many others. I know a lot of you know her already, but if not click here.

The two photos above are shot at the breathtakingly beautiful Four Seasons Hotel in Florence and I simply cant take my eyes off them!

Read more here from her blog on how she captured the shots.

Simply beautiful Carla ....

Have a wonderful weekend

Lanterns Moroccan style ...

2011-11-10T07:00:00.008Z

I'm a real sucker for intricate lanterns and during my recent trip to Marrakesh

there was not a shortage of them ...

This amazing shot was taken at the Bahia Palace in Marrakech,

the ceiling is hand painted and resembles a persian rug

Lanterns poolside @ La Maison Arabe

... in the restaurant

... and corridors

Numerous lanterns at the Souks

@ La Maison Arabe

... the filigree and craftsmanship is amazing

leather lanterns photographed at the souks

And the two beauties I brought back with me, but haven't found the right spot to put them yet ...

{all photographs belong to Iced VoVo's}

Victoria & Albert Museum

2011-11-09T07:00:00.006Z

The stunning V&A cafe

The V&A is a constant source of inspiration for me.

Above are a few snaps of things that caught my eye when I was there about a month ago.

Thats what I love about London,

you can never be bored with all the wonderful museums ...

Happy Wednesday

{All images belong to Iced VoVo's}

A beautiful spot to sit ...

2011-11-08T07:00:00.001Z

via desire to inspire

via sea of shoes

via desire to inspire

via pinecone camp

via House Beautiful

All these spaces have the following in common:

colour

texture

an invitation to linger ...

hope you're having a wonderful Tuesday

Glasgow weekend + a little culture ...

2011-11-07T09:51:00.012Z

Hello lovely readers . Our weekend in Glasgow started late Friday night with dinner at the award winning seafood restaurant Gamba. The head chef and co-proprietor Derek Marshall even signed a copy of his book, Gamba: Simple Seafood Cooking for me.

Saturday we spent strolling along the river and visiting the newly opened, Zaha Hadid designed, Transport Museum ...

... which was truly amazing and well displayed

Lunch at the beautiful Corinthian Club, which I've always wanted to visit, and finally did ...

The architecture and modern art instillations at the Gallery of modern Art

And finally a little kilt shopping ...

The ceilidh was again very successful in raising lots of money for charity and as always we had a wonderful night catching up with our Scottish friends and dancing the night away.

{All photos belong to Iced Vo Vo's}

Gucci inspiration for a Scottish weekend ...

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000Z

Gucci really nailed it for autumn/winter 2011

I love this palette of petrol green, from the romantic chiffon gowns

to the furs and frills of the jackets.

It's that time of the year again when Mr N and I go to

Glasgow for the ceilidh we attend each year,

Loving ...

2011-11-02T20:40:00.004Z

JCrew via

The tousled hair, the pink lips and the beautiful layering of clothes

Perfect autumn look ...

Mesmerizing Marrakech ....

2011-11-01T15:45:00.008Z

{All photos by my daughter and belong to Iced VoVos}

So sorry for the lack of posts recently, as it has been a week and a bit since I got back from Morocco and all I can say is that it was everything and more than I expected. I picked up a stomach bug on the flight home ... hence the lack of posts!

The sights, smells, sounds and the feelings that you are greeted with when you arrive in such an exotic place like Marrakech are so overwhelming, that you need a long cool drink to start to get your thoughts together, before you even start to tackle the place.

From the incredible arid countryside followed by lush green palms that welcome you as you fly into the city from the air, is only a small indication of what awaits you when you finally arrive within the gated walls of the medina. The juxtaposition of the shanty towns followed by the enormously built hotels on the outskirts are quite surreal. The hustle and bustle and sounds from the medina are quite overwhelming, but the excitement within you is one where you cant wait to get out and explore.

The riad La Maison Arabe, which we stayed at, was a wonderful oasis in the midst of chaos ... Just like most of the riads and hotels (well not all the hotels) in town, from the outside it looked like just a clay wall in a very narrow alleyway, but once inside ... it was literally a calming oasis and the staff could not have been more accommodating and helpful. The riad was beautifully decorated in the traditional moroccan style and was well appointed with a wonderful restaurant and many courtyards where you could sip mint tea and feast on moroccan delights, as well as a quaint piano bar for a late night drink.

We visited historical sites, beautiful gardens (Marjolle gardens are highly recommended), dinned at wonderful restaurants, Palais Jad Mahal and the Le Marocain restaurant at La Mamounia Hotel, shopped the Souks, visited the Atlas mountains and a few of the Berber villages ... and camel trekked.

We took hundreds and hundreds of photos (which I could bore you with, but wont) and could not have had a better time ... a real feast for the senses!

It was a shame I picked up something on the flight home and was thankful it didnt happen during the 4 days we were there.

I guess it comes with the territory ...

Inspirational Friday ...

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000+01:00

{Image via here}

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend ...

will be back on Monday

Exotic + Blue ...

2011-10-19T09:00:00.003+01:00

Don't you love this vintage Moroccan poster?

By the time you read this I will have already touched down in beautiful Marrakesh. I hate very early morning flights ... but we're only in Morocco for 4 days ... so you have to make the most of it!

I leave you with a few more Moroccan style inspirations ...

See you next week.

{Images 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 3}

Contempoary Moroccan Jewel ...

2011-10-18T09:00:00.002+01:00

Images 1&2, 3

This beautiful home belongs to UK fashion designer Liza Bruce and her artist husband, Nicholas Alvis Vega. With numerous houses scattered throughout the globe, this Moroccan jewel is their crowning glory. They describe their homes as "... film sets without the film."

Read their full story here.

Exotic + Pink ...

2011-10-17T07:03:00.000+01:00

{All images via bohemiadesign tumblr + Image 2: absolutely beautiful things}

Good morning lovely readers. The weekend flew by with beautiful crisp mornings and bright blue skies here in the UK. I stumbled across a beautiful tumblr blog called Bohemia Design while reading my friend Vic's gorgeous blog Cush and Nooks. Bohemia Designs has the most amazing images of exotic locations and fashion from a true bohemian spirit.

So in keeping with the Moroccan theme I have going, please enjoys some beautiful exotic pink interiors ...

A gem of a room ...

2011-10-15T15:51:00.003+01:00

Royal Mansour Hotel, Marrakech

Intricately carved and painted room ...

I can't seem to get enough of Moroccan design lately.

La Maison Arabe ...

2011-10-12T13:03:00.003+01:00

Winding through the narrow alleyways, you arrive at La Maison Arabe ...We really want to experience a sumptuously authentic riad, here are the beautifully appointed rooms ...
A little oasis in the middle of a very busy city, with a little pampering in a traditional hammam ...
And hopefully, maybe a little cooking lesson at their renowned cooking school ...

I can't wait until we go next Wednesday.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend ....

Exotic Marrakech ...

2011-10-12T09:51:00.005+01:00

Palatial courtyard of the Royal Mansour, Marrakech

Cropped cover of Australian Belle April/May 2011

Royal Mansour, zellige tiles,sumptuous fabrics,

mixed with contemporary furniture

Reinterpretation of Moroccan style at the spa, Royal Mansour

{All fashion images Harpers Bazaar via Habitually Chic}

I am so excited!

It has been a dream of mine to one day travel to an exotic place like Marrakech and it is finally coming to fruition. I think as a designer, you are always stimulated by what is around you and I know Morocco will not disappoint in that department. It will be a sensory overload!

We are going next week for 4 days and will be staying at a classic riad in the Medina called La Maison Arabe. I cant wait to see all that beautiful Moroccan craftmanship with tadelakt walls and cedar wood ceilings (which this riad boasts) and the beautiful zellige tiles.

I am also currently reading The Caliph's House by Tahir Shah, which I cannot put down, and hopefully followed by In Arabian Nights before we go. It is a beautifully written book of the authors year long adventure in Casablanca trying to restore a ruin of a palace.

I will try and post some images of La Maison Arabe tomorrow. If you cannot wait, just click the link above.

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Dots + Zig-zags ...

2011-10-10T08:12:00.000+01:00

{Image from Bergdorf Goodman}

Dress: Etro Zigzag Print

Tights: Wolford Bonny Dots

Shoes: Gucci Houston Mary-Jane pumps

Monday's Inspiration ...

Art ...

2011-10-09T09:39:00.000+01:00

Last Wednesday night I had the pleasure of attending the preview evening of Art London ... which was fabulous as always. My girlfriend and I were talking art (as you do) and brought up the Australian artist, John Brack.

He was not exhibited at the show, but I thought I'd show you some of his paintings I love:

Nude in an armchair 1957

The Old Time

The Boucher Nude

{images from here}

John Brack was one of the most cerebral of Australian artists. An avid reader and a cool, dispassionate observer of people and society, he has left behind several series of paintings of modern life which have achieved iconic status. Images whose coolness, ambiguity and hidden complexity demand careful consideration from the viewer.

Wishing you all a very art filled weekend!

There is so much going on in the way of art shows in London, if you are in town!

Illustrations ...

2011-10-05T07:00:00.001+01:00

I've just discovered the wonderful talents of Illustrator Inslee Haynes while flicking through the first anniverasry edition of Ivy & Piper. One of her artistic inspirations is Garance Dore ... I can see why.

Tranquility ...

2011-10-04T11:29:00.005+01:00

A few little images that inspired me today ...

Imagine waking up here every day

{image via here}

{All other images from here}

Hope your Tuesday is going well ...

Animal print + Turquoise

2011-10-03T09:43:00.002+01:00

Good morning friends!

The weekend flew by, spent outdoors in the glorious weather we have been experiencing and excited that it is continuing for a few more days.

While browsing through Harpers Bazaar I couldn't help but marvel at this home belonging to Veronica Swanson Beard. I'm loving her urban bohemian aesthetic from the vibrantly hued turquoise walls to the exotic printed fabrics. You can read more here.

Definitely not afraid of colour here ....

100% Design 2011 ...

2011-09-24T16:05:00.008+01:00

Some things that caught my attention at 100% Design yesterday ....

I'm in love with the simplicity of the 'Convertible Table' from TuttoTondo Design ... especially great for small spaces, this table is multi-functional and has a very cool 50's feel about it. Once the lid is closed, you can leave everything as is inside the workstation and transform it into a dining table that can comfortably sit up to 6 people.

A little light humour ...

These 'Big Big Bling Necklace' lights add a little humour to your interior and are from the very talented Penelope Batley

Beautiful glassware from Bob Crooks Firstglass, known internationally for his lighting production and one off ranges, with many pieces in collections worldwide

I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibition this year ... I think it has stepped up a notch as compared to the previous years. Tomorrow I'm off to Decorex International at The Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Hope you are all having a lovely weekend ...

Turquoise delights ...

2011-09-20T22:46:00.007+01:00

{Image 1, 2, 3, 4}

I'm just in love with those ikat inspired, glass aquamarine, tanzanite and turquoise mosaic tiles from New Ravenna Mosaics.

Here is a close up pic

... and even closer

Sorry for some strange reason, that first photo is not of very good quality, so I am re - posting the 1st image below for a better view ...