The Friday Five: Bathrooms
Posted: October 12, 2012 Filed under: Architecture, Design, Friday Five, Interiors | Tags: bathrooms, Hansgrohe, House to Home magazine, inspiration, Interior Design Show, interiors, The Friday Five Leave a commentIs anyone tackling a bathroom renovation any time soon? Here are five serene bathrooms that may inspire you to renovate yours! (What else have you got going on this weekend? Right?!)
photograph by Ben Anders via House to Home
via AirBNB
the Hansgrohe Metris C collection
photo by Colin Poole via House to Home
Additional Reading: See previous posts featuring bathrooms here, here, and here.
Furniture: Sewing Machine Table
Posted: September 25, 2012 Filed under: Design, Furniture, Interiors | Tags: Design, furniture, interiors, sewing machine table, style Leave a commentI love that the white table by the window is an old sewing machine base…
via Morpho Studio
The Friday Five: Offices
Posted: September 21, 2012 Filed under: Design, Friday Five, Furniture, Interiors | Tags: Brazil, Casa Spazio, Chicago, desk Poland, interior, Maristela Gorayeb, Morph Studio, office 2 CommentsI know it’s Friday and the last thing many of us want to do is to think about the office but trust me when I tell you that the offices I have featured below are worth your time (and stares). While they are quite different in style an aesthetic, each office is pleasing because of the minimalist (and complimentary) colour schemes, interesting textures and forms, and unique architectural details.
I’m taking you to office spaces around the world today beginning with a room of contrasts which includes the sleek Air Desk from Chicago-based Casa Spazio. Next is the minimalist black and white office area designed by Morpho Studio in Poland. The final three spaces, created by Brazilian designer Maristela Gorayeb, showcase amazing collections of books and artifacts in a pleasing and inviting way.
Casa Spazio via Escapade
apartment in Krakow, Poland; designed by Morpho Studio
interior design by Maristela Gorayeb, via Desire to Inspire
interior design by Maristela Gorayeb, via Desire to Inspire
interior design by Maristela Gorayeb, via Desire to Inspire
Happy Friday!
Design: It’s Hip to Be Square
Posted: September 17, 2012 Filed under: Design, Fashion, Interiors, Marketplace | Tags: ASOS, backsplash, bathroom, Dwell, Fashion, Kitchen, Paul Smith, square, square tile, Urban Outfitters Leave a commentThe square has escaped elementary mathematics class and has landed in the world of fashion and design!
Sparkle & Fade cage back cropped tee, $24.99, Urban Outfitters
Paul Smith Jeans white check shirt, $144, ASOS
down duvet, $109-$129, Urban Outfitters
via Benita Larsson
via Dwell
Update:
More squares:
– these amazing Balenciaga shoes
– this kitchen backsplash
– this backpack
Furniture: Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair
Posted: September 13, 2012 Filed under: Design, Furniture, Interiors | Tags: Design, dining chair, dining room, Hans Wegner, wishbone chair Leave a commentI love the Hans Wegner Wishbone chair (designed in 1949!) but it kind of bothers me that it doesn’t fully tuck in under the table. Does it bother anyone else?
via Shelton, Mindel & Associates
via Remodelista
via Remodelista
Or maybe because it’s such a lovely, well-designed chair, it’s meant to stand out and remain on display.
Organization: A Place for Everything
Posted: September 10, 2012 Filed under: Interiors | Tags: cupboards, Kitchen, open shelving, Organization Leave a comment…and everything in its place.
via Dwell
Design: Review of King & Grove Tides South Beach
Posted: August 20, 2012 Filed under: Architecture, Design, Furniture, Interiors, Jordana, Toronto | Tags: Design, hotel review, Kelly Wearstler, King & Grove Tides South Beach, Miami, South Beach 2 CommentsAs I mentioned last week, during my two weeks in Florida, I made a quick trip down to Miami. South Beach to be more precise. While the beaches, the nightlife and the architecture were all selling points for me, one of the things that I was most excited about was staying at The Tides. As in The Tides! Perhaps you’re already familiar with this hotel because I featured it on my first ever post on White Cabana. The iconic hotel is also known for the interior design work by Kelly Wearstler. Yeah, her.
If you’ve not yet heard about The Tides, let me introduce you to it.
The Tides, one of the King & Grove group of hotels, is perfectly situated on Ocean Drive.
The Tides lobby
My friend Shannon and I were instantly impressed with the courteous service we received by all staff members. They treated us with a smile and did their best to make sure our stay was as perfect as it could possibly be. Check-in was a breeze and staff had answers to any question we asked. Over our two days at The Tides, we always felt extremely welcome.
Photos from around the hotel (L to R; T to B) – console and lighting by the elevators, numbered door, cream window shades, Miami news of the week, K & G paper and pencil set, artwork
Each hotel room is at least 550 sq feet. This basically translates to spacious, larger than normal suites. Our room had two double beds, two desk areas, a seating area, a walk-in closet, and a spacious bathroom. While the hotels on Ocean Drive are not directly on the beach (as opposed to where we stayed at Madeira Beach), all rooms have an ocean view. Complimentary wi-fi is also offered which made our stay that much more comfortable.
Photos from around the hotel – bathrobes, white linens, large furniture pieces, orchids, restaurant, outdoor dining area
In classic Kelly Wearstler style – big, bold, glitzy and glamorous elements are found throughout the hotel.The furnishings throughout the hotel are golden and pink with large hints of white. Linens are all white, of course. The number of mirrors in our room was impressive. There were two large full-length mirrors and another couple of large mirrors throughout the space (perfect for two ladies who like to admire their tans, hmm…). The bathroom was large, comfortable, and full of marble. Delightful!
Bathroom included white linens and toiletries
The outdoor pool area was beautiful although much smaller than I expected. The chaise lounges were a perfect place to relax after a hard day at the beach (hee hee). On Troy‘s recommendation, we ordered the guacamole and had it delivered to us poolside (yes, we indulged!). It was perfect (although the delivery charge did make us laugh).
Poolside at The Tides
Complimentary breakfast in the hotel lobby was a good way to begin the day. The basics – coffee, tea, pastries and apples – were served in a casual and inviting manner.
Breakfast at The Tides and a water station by the fitness centre
And, if you haven’t already noticed, a variety of patterns and textures were every where to be found!
Patterns at The Tides – poolside and in the lobby
While we definitely did enjoy our time at The Tides, this review would not be complete without a brief look at some of the less luxurious aspects of the hotel. One of the first things that my friend and I noticed in the bathroom was the toilet paper. Um. It was so un-luxurious. I’m talking the 1-ply variety. I would have expected at least 3 ply. Right? I know it may seem ridiculous to mention the toilet paper but it really struck us as being a bit odd. Second, while the shower stall in the bathroom looked gorgeous, it did not function very well. Each shower resulted in a pile of water on the floor outside the tub area. The shower head was good – it was the hinged shower door that was the culprit. Not a very big deal but a definite design flaw. Third, while the bathrobes were comfortable, they were not as plush as I have experienced elsewhere. They did look great hanging on the padded hangers though. Finally, there was a $2 per coffee charge for the in-room coffee station (Nespresso I believe). I was surprised by this as I’ve stayed in many hotels where the coffee and tea in-room is complimentary. The issues I mention here really aren’t make-or-break issues but if The Tides is trying to be the best of the best, well, I would encourage the hotel to consider these points.
And a word of caution – be sure to make use of the in-room safe while you’re staying at this and any other hotel. Unfortunately our credit cards were compromised during our stay which has inevitably left a sour taste in our mouths. An unfortunate ending to an otherwise very pleasant experience.
Photos by me.
The Friday Five: Kitchen Renovation (Almost the End)
Posted: August 17, 2012 Filed under: Design, Friday Five, Interiors, Jordana, Toronto | Tags: Home, interior, Kitchen, Parada Kitchens, Photography, renovation 5 CommentsSix months ago my parents began a renovation of their main floor kitchen, laundry room, and powder room. You may have read about the progress here and here. I’m happy to report that the kitchen is (almost) complete. Here are five views of their new space.
What’s left to do? Well, my parents are currently dealing with a kitchen table DIY and the hunt is back on for the perfect set of chairs. It’s almost the end!
Custom kitchen by Parada Kitchens. Photos by Brunida Kaso.
20 Below: Bath Mats
Posted: August 14, 2012 Filed under: 20 Below, Interiors, Marketplace | Tags: Ballard Design, bath mat, bathroom, decor, French, madame, Marketplace, monsieur, shopping Leave a commentAren’t these great Frenchie bath mats?
Madame/Monsieur bath mats, $17.99 (small), Ballard Designs
Design: So-An Architecture
Posted: July 26, 2012 Filed under: Architecture, Design, Interiors | Tags: Architecture, events, France, interior design, Isabelle Stanislas, Leiko Oshima, Zadig & Voltaire 2 CommentsIsabelle Stanislas and Leiko Oshima are the design duo behind Paris-based architecture firm So-An Architecture. Their work, which can be found beyond the borders of France, is mostly modern with a few quirky twists. The firm creates dramatic dramatic spaces which are filled with rich products and neutral colours. So-An has completed incredible projects in architecture, interior design, retail spaces and events and have worked with companies including Cartier, Zadig and Voltaire and Novotel. Let’s have a look, shall we?
white loft
Rue du Mail
Rue le Notre
Rue le Notre
Place des États-Unis
Place des États-Unis
I love the marble-clad bathroom in the last space. Black matte fixtures are so in vogue!
Which of the above spaces are you most attracted to?
Photos courtesy of So-An Architecture.
Many thanks to Alessandro V. for sending this my way.
Marketplace: West Elm + South Africa
Posted: July 23, 2012 Filed under: Art, Design, Furniture, Interiors, Marketplace, Travel | Tags: Anthony Shapiro, Art, Ceramic Matters, collaboration, Design, furniture, home accessories, Marketplace, Mick Haigh, Pedersen & Lennard, Potter's Workshop, Source, South Africa, Travel, West Elm 5 CommentsIf you can’t make it to South Africa…
photos by Mathilde
photos by Corie & Jeff
but crave a South African vibe in your living space…
then West Elm’s recent collaboration with South African designers and artisans might be just for you! The collection of ceramics, textiles, furniture and home accessories has been growing in popularity since it hit the marketplace just a little while ago. Some of my favourite pieces are white (duh!) and they are simple, structural and functional.
Mick Haigh oversize serving bowl, $63.09
Potter’s Workshop napkin set – black shields, $21.39
Ceramic Matters candleholder, $63.09
Anthony Shapiro pillar candleholders, $84.48-$105.87
Source dining chair, $212.81
Pedersen + Lennard hooks, $12.81
Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars. Some items are not available for international shipping.
Many thanks to Mathilde, Corie and Jeff for allowing me to use their photos from their trips to South Africa.
The Friday Five: Blog Love
Posted: June 29, 2012 Filed under: Blog Spotlight, Friday Five, Interiors | Tags: 79 Ideas, A Beach Cottage, blogs, Icy White, inspiration, Kayce's Blog, Sous Style, white 2 CommentsI don’t often give shout outs to blogs in posts because I feel like that’s what my blogroll is for. If you have a peek over at that list you’ll see some of the blogs that I enjoy reading on a daily and weekly basis. But there are so many great white (and colouful) blogs out there and, probably like you, I am always stumbling upon some new-to-me blogs. Today I’d like to shine the Friday Five spotlight on some of these gems.
Sous Style, headed up by Australian-born, Brooklyn-based Pippa Lord, is a great resource for inspiring home decor and recipes. The blog has some amazing regular features like Wake Up Call and Cook For Me. And I especially like the blog’s manifesto (copied below).
Sous Style
I only came across 79 Ideas, a blog written by Radostina, a graphic-designer based in Prague (hello – I love Prague). It’s such a soft blog and so pleasant to read. I enjoyed reading through Radostina’s likes and dislikes, some of which are copied below. Be sure to flip through her e-mag – it is full of the most beautiful photos.
Sarah’s blog, A Beach Cottage is gorgeous because it includes two of the things that I love: white and the beach. Really, do you really need more convincing to go read it?
the deck at A Beach Cottage
Tenessee-based Kayce Hughes is a designer, blogger, and mother of seven. I have no idea how she gets everything done. Kudos to her. Her blog is super colourful so if you need a colour fix go have a peek! Of course I’m most attracted to her more monochromatic photos (see DIY below).
Finally, Icy White is a wonderful all-white tumblr (there are a few others out there as well). It is an excellent source of white inspiration (in addition to White Cabana, of course!).
What blogs have you discovered lately? Let me know in the comments section! It’s the Canada Day long weekend here so I’ve got some time to catch up on reading (outside, of course)!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Interiors: Hansgrohe Bathrooms
Posted: June 28, 2012 Filed under: Design, Interiors, Marketplace | Tags: bathroom, bathroom fixtures, Delta, faucets, Hansgrohe, Metris, PuraVida Leave a commentToday’s bathrooms all feature amazing Hansgrohe fixtures. The products – and the spaces – are minimalist and modern. It’s no wonder I am happy to share them.
Thanks to Farah N. for sending me these photos.
Interiors: Kitchen Renovation. The Progress.
Posted: June 21, 2012 Filed under: Design, Interiors, Jordana, Personal | Tags: Design, interiors, Kitchen, renovation 6 CommentsWay back in February my parents began a major renovation of their main floor. They tore out the floor, the powder room, the laundry room, the kitchen, and the family room. And then they put it back together again (with the help of a few very talented people). I’m happy to report that the renovation is almost – almost – done! And it is gorgeous (I’m not just saying that because it’s white, either). Here is a sneak peek of some of the details.
kitchen cabinets (wood with dovetail construction) – Parada Kitchens
kitchen cabinets – Parada Kitchens; Wolf stove ready to be assembled; counter ready to be installed
Sub-Zero fridge – ready to be unpeeled
a sweet vintage crystal chandelier (you won’t believe the deal my mom got on this one!)
fireplace mantel with carrera marble surround
fireplace mantel detail
Note: If you’re in the Toronto area and you’re looking for a kitchen cabinet maker my parents definitely recommend Parada Kitchens. My mom, who is very particular about quality, craftsmanship, work ethic and design (among other things – sorry Mom but it’s true), was quite impressed with Parada. (And no – they did not get a deal on their kitchen because I just wrote all of this.)
Photos by me.