You probably know by now that I love bringing things inside from the great outdoors to design and decorate with. So this design from A1 Architects in Prague made me swoon. Like their website says, "the secret of architecture lies in naturalness."
20 December 2011
17 December 2011
16 December 2011
top 8 organic holiday wreaths
Natural, organic wreaths are my favourite, so as we get closer to the big day, here are my top 8 picks for the holidays. In fact, these all-natural wreaths, if used outdoors, could stay up all winter to add some cheer.
14 December 2011
add natural elements to warm up your home
Some of us are just beginning our long stint of cold winter weather and spending more time indoors. Bringing natural elements inside will add a fresh feeling that will help you make it to Spring. Well, that and chocolate. And that Hawaii 5-0 guy.
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| Better Homes and Gardens |
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| Better Homes and Gardens |
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| Serenityindesign |
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| House Beautiful |
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| Better Homes and Gardens |
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| Remodelista |
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| Apartment Therapy |
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| Pottery Barn |
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| House Beautiful |
13 December 2011
easy kitchen refresh: lighting
If you have only a little time and a little money, what is one thing you could do to modernize and refresh your kitchen? Change your lighting. There are so many great pendant lighting choices today for hanging over an island, table or sink. Look through vintage shops and online sources to find interesting and inexpensive lighting that will make you feel like you've remodelled, without the mess. Here are some great examples.
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| barn light electric |
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11 December 2011
room of the week: natural living
OK, this is two rooms, but I couldn't choose one since they are both amazing! These are from French interior designer Isabelle Heureux, who believes in mixing materials and in designing according to Feng Shui principles. Look at the reuse of materials in the kitchen cabinets and island. The raw floors, walls and ceilings are amazing (not to mention cost-efficient) and lighting and furniture is kept simple. And I love the way the sofas are placed for great conversation.
9 December 2011
sustainable home case study
I came across the cutest and smartest passive home design recently at Inhabitat that I wanted to share. This house uses only 1/10 the energy that a conventional home uses, and relies on passive solar energy and heat recovery ventilation. The structure is small and simple (1200 sq ft) but allows for a central great room with tons of light and space, and a bedroom on each end. There is even a loft for a get-away space. I love how it incorporates outdoor living on both sides. The design is by Zero Energy Design and they have other great projects in their portfolio as well.
My parents are thinking about building a home for their retirement years that will be easy to live in as they get older. A house such as this one is on a slab, has no stairs, is efficient, and isn't too big. I think this would be perfect for a downsizing option. If you have other designs that might work, please let me know!
8 December 2011
refreshed staircases
Staircases are often a forgotten area of the home when it comes to design, but they can be a great place to show off your personality. Whether left as raw wood, covered in a classic sisal runner, or painted an interesting colour and pattern, there are many ways to refresh your staircase without much cost.
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Which do you like best?
