A Paddington Perspective

Crowning Glory

2012-02-08T09:17:00.000+11:00

Image via Coastal Living Magazine

A true beauty, I love the statement this domineering chinoiserie inspired bead head makes. The bed works as a great counter balance to the quietness of the rest of the room.

What a Tease

2012-02-07T14:26:00.000+11:00

Images via www.cotedazurvillarentals.com

Over the last few days the in box of my email has been filling up with messages from my travel agency. Reminding me to "get in quick and book my summer villa in the south of France". What a tease this is. There is no chance Mr Oliver can get another 3 weeks off this year to rebook the St Tropez villa we rented last European summer.

If any of you are lucky enough to be contemplating a trip to the South of France I recommend checking out the charming properties listed above.

Bullard Brillance

2012-02-01T15:24:00.000+11:00

All images are from the portfolio of work belonging to Martin Lawrence Bullard

Today I attended a talk given by famed LA Interior Designer to the stars, Martin Lawrence Bullard. I went to the event not expecting much but left completely charmed by the man's whit and generosity.

He was a wonderful speaker. One of the things he said that struck me most was his desire to take the personal style of his clients and just layer his taste level over the top. This is in direct contrast to a lot of designers who continue to replicate their signature look over and over again.

Martins book "Live Love & Decorate" is well worth investing in.

Burnished Bathroom

2012-01-31T12:37:00.007+11:00

Over the long weekend I stayed at a charming holiday house in Noosa. I was quite taken with the morrocan inspired ensuite. The bronzed Perrin & Rowe taps were the perfect choice to compliment the natural stone and bone inlayed mirror.

A Fresh Shade

2012-01-24T14:56:00.000+11:00

Coloured Shutters in a Palm Beach Courtyard
Images via www.domain.com.au

You may mistake this property for belonging in Europe. The Sydney villa is actually located in Palm Beach. I adore the shade of mint green chosen for the shutters. A bit more refreshing then the typical white seen in this area.

Colour Inspiration

2012-01-13T12:20:00.001+11:00

The other night after putting James to sleep I walked into my kitchen to find the most stunning sunset occurring over the harbour. I was so taken with the colours I rushed for my camera to capture them. Now normally I am not a particularly pastel kind of girl, I tend towards stronger more masculine colours. This spellbinding sunset has me reconsidering my opinion though.

Indoor Outdoor

2012-01-10T12:50:00.005+11:00

I am loving the new range of Schumacher indoor outdoor fabrics. The collection is called Cote d'Azure and is inspired by the natural colour palate of the French Riviera. Finally a outdoor collection to get excited about.

Out Take

2012-01-09T13:34:00.005+11:00

Image styled by me, photographed by Simon Whitbread

Bedside table close up.

This months Home Beautiful features a lovely home I helped styled. One of my favourite images didn't make the cut so I thought I would show you here. Grab a copy of the February issue to see more of this fun family residence.

Welcome 2012

2012-01-05T15:21:00.000+11:00

After a relaxing break I always feel re energized and full of new creative ideas. I came back home a few days ago to find my garden full of fresh blooms, what a nice way to start the new year. This was our first New Years eve in the house and we were shock to see the amazing Sydney fireworks right outside our window, another good omen. It feels like 2012 is shaping up to be a good year. I sincerely hope it proves fruitful for all of you.

Wishing You A Merry Christmas

2011-12-22T08:33:00.001+11:00

image via Country Living Magazine

All my jobs are done for 2011 and our bags are packed for the island. I want to wish all my lovely readers and blogging friends a happy and healthy Christmas. I will be back posting again soon in 2012.

Perfect Presents

2011-12-19T14:20:00.001+11:00

With James out of the house this morning I had time to sit down in my office and get all our final presents wrapped. This is a much easier exercise without a toddler under foot.

I only have one more job to deliver before the end of the year.

Christmas here we come!

Be Yourself

2011-12-06T15:00:00.000+11:00

Quote image via pin interest

Me in my hat at the farmers markets in Monte Carlo

This quote really hits home with me. Even as a little girl I have loved hats, in every shape and size. While they come in and out of fashion, I continue to swim against the tide. I'm even know to wear my fedora or wide brim sun hat to work. I'm sure clients find it slightly eccentric but they just make me so happy!

I'm also a big believer in the adage "if you love it, it belongs in your home". Make sure you are not a slave to interior trends. The best spaces are ones full of well loved unexpected items. That's not to say if you do love a trend you shouldn't follow it.

Up Go The Decorations

2011-12-01T12:18:00.004+11:00

Well it's the first of December and that means its time to hang the Christmas wreath on the front door. I found this fantastic home made verision over at www.hollyscharmedlife.blogspot.com , if you like it head over for a tutorial on making your own.

Island Time

2011-11-29T13:43:00.004+11:00

Images via Queensland Tourism & Magnetic Island Accommodation

With the Christmas install rush breathing down my neck, I have to remind myself that it also means just a few more weeks until I can take some R&R. This year we are headed home to what my family affectionately calls "The Island". I grew up in North Queensland and spent many wonderful summers on Magnetic Island. Although its located in the tropics it reminds me more of a Greek Island. With its rocky outcrops and turquoise waters. The thing I love most about the island is the lack of pretenison. Everyone drives around in open top beach buggies called mokes and shoes are optional.

Bring on Christmas!

Image Inspiration

2011-11-23T13:02:00.000+11:00

Images Via Donna Hay

Donna Hay magazine always provides an endless array of inspirational images. The 10th anniversary addition is a feast for the eyes. I am particularly drawn to these two beautiful images. I'm a sucker for a dark backdrop, they get me every time.

The colour of the sky outside at the moment looks similar to this. I have a car full of flowers and fresh produce ready for a styling shoot tomorrow, but if this temprimental rain doesn't disappear it's all going to go to waste!

Antlers in the Bathroom, oh Deer!

2011-11-22T16:59:00.000+11:00

Bathroom in the Home of J.Crew Creative Director Jenna Lyons

Continuing on from my post yesterday regarding antlers featuring in my bathroom design, I came upon this picture. I adore the use of antler mirror in this room, it adds a sense of whimsy to an otherwise classical bathroom.

Copper Love

2011-11-21T15:53:00.002+11:00

Work in Progress

I am currently putting together a masculine bathroom complete with freestanding copper tub overlooked by a wall of antlers. I love it when clients are prepared to go bold!

Simplicity is Key

2011-11-18T17:12:00.002+11:00

Simple things make me smile. This serene photograph entitled "dragonfly season" was taken by my very talented sister in law Janis from www.somethingsomers.blogspot.com

I am in need of some serenity this weekend after a crazy week at work. This time of year is hectic for designers, with its last minute Christmas instal deadlines.

Beach Daze

2011-11-09T11:40:00.000+11:00

Image Via Photo Bucket

It's too warm to stay inside, luckily I have a day off with James. We will put on our straw hats and head down to the beach. I must be one of the few people who love the hot humid air. After growing up in the tropics it always gives me a sense of nostalgia.

The Wash Up

2011-11-08T20:43:00.003+11:00

My Clients New Kitchen

With a view like this from the kitchen window I would almost be tempted to do the washing up. I visited my client today to take some pictures of her recently installed kitchen. We finished it a few months back, but now the star jasmine is in bloom the final piece has come into play.

First of the Season

2011-11-01T17:12:00.002+11:00

Hydrangeas don't worry about what Madonna thinks, I still love you! My garden is a riot of pink and purple at the moment. The Hydrangeas have been in bloom for a few weeks now and today I finally cut some stems to bring indoors.

Beach House Meets Barn

2011-10-26T09:05:00.000+11:00

Images via www.domain.com.au

What do you get when you add a cavernous barn like extension to your beach house? Pure beauty!

This impeccably styled property is currently for sale in Sydney's Palm Beach.

What's in a Name

2011-10-25T16:37:00.007+11:00

I am loving this cute ticking stripe cushion I had made up and embroidered for James! It has pride of place on our story time chair.

Colour Inspiration

2011-10-20T12:07:00.000+11:00

As an antithesis to all the crazy colour floating around at the moment, here is my latest colour inspiration. I adore the texture and muted colours of the succulents I planted, against the rough floor of my garden cabana. The sculptural bouquet arrived at my door yesterday, sent to me by a very thoughtful and happy client.

Press Mute

2011-10-19T19:15:00.007+11:00

Whilst I appreciate colour, I am quite taken with the quiet understated palettes I saw time and again in Europe. Sometimes simple muted colour schemes create more impact then vivid hues.

Chocolate Colour Story

2011-10-11T11:38:00.001+11:00

Colour Board Created by Me

A colour scheme that looks good enough to eat. I can't wait to see this Belgian sisal carpet installed in my clients property.

Farmers Market Bounty

2011-09-28T18:06:00.000+10:00

Continuing with the purple flower theme of late, I picked up these dreamy blooms from the farmers markets. I'm plaining a spring party for the upcoming long weekend and these will form a delicate centerpiece for the garden table.

Fab Friday Finds

2011-09-23T10:50:00.000+10:00

I had a very productive morning, sourcing props for an upcoming styling shoot. All items were $10 or less!

Purple Reign

2011-09-15T18:18:00.002+10:00

Yesterday I styled the Paddington home of talented florist Bee Wicks. I had a great day shooting with her, here are some of the artistic arrangements she created. The purple hues are so striking, I just adore these little anemone flowers.

You can see more of Bee's fabulous flowers at www.baylissandtaylor.com.au

Petite Paddington Kitchen

2011-09-12T15:26:00.004+10:00

A glimpse of a petite Paddington kitchen.

Great storage ideas - tick

Marble bench tops - tick

Beautiful taps - tick

Dining solutions - tick

The perfect little package!

Ottoman Empire

2011-09-08T17:02:00.000+10:00

The ottoman is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture. If you have young children they provide a great substitute to a hard edged coffee table. This beauty called "Zara" is a new addition to the Town & Country Style family.

Style Revamp

2011-09-05T20:54:00.001+10:00

I spent the day reworking a display apartment that was done by another designer a while ago. This delicate starburst mirror was far and away my favourite piece. There has been much debate over the merits of starbursts. I have always been a fan and will continue to love them, no matter what the trend.

Spring Stock Room Sale

2011-08-30T18:31:00.001+10:00

A Pair of Ruby Star Original Ikat Cushions 50 x 50 cm, Sale Price $100 Each
RRP $200

A Pair of Emac Portland Wall Scones in Antique Silver Finish, Sale Price $180 Each
RRP $350

Today the weather changed and I decided it was time to clear out the stockroom and make way for some yummy new spring pieces. So here is your chance to grab a bargain. If you are interested in any of the items please email me.

I will have more sale items that will be posted later on in the week.

The Pantry

2011-08-22T18:17:00.003+10:00

images via Manly Daily

Over the weekend I had the pleasure of dining at one of my favorite restaurants, The Pantry. The food is a draw card and the spectacular view of Manly beach the icing on the cake. I'm most drawn though to the inviting interior fit out. The use of copper lights mixed with aged leather and limewashed wood infuses the space with warmth no matter what the season.

Cisco Atelier

2011-08-16T15:55:00.000+10:00

Cisco Atelier Pieces

Recieved news today that Town & Country Style will be importing the Cisco Atelier range into Australia. I can't wait to get my hands on some of these pieces.

On another note I've had a few technical issues with some of your comments. Even though I approve them they fail to show up on the blog. I promise I'm not ignoring you and will endeavor to sort it out. Comments are always greatly appreciated!

The Beauty of Books

2011-08-09T21:04:00.001+10:00

Above Images from "The New Eighteenth Century Home"

Above Images from "Flowers for the Home"

I have a love affair with books. I can't get enough of their magical words that transport you and expand horizons. Reading a novel on the ipad is not my idea of fun, where is the tactile sensation of touching the pages, the delicious fresh paper smell?

Today I received two new books to keep me enthralled for the coming week. Both are recommendations from other Bloggers and I assure you they will not disappoint. After a quick flip through I'm already hooked.

Floored

2011-08-01T13:31:00.000+10:00

Venice Italy

I was taken by the patterned floors I saw in Europe. It seamed to be the norm not the exception to have a beautifully detailed design under foot. This particular pattern from Venice has inspired a new job.

Weekends

2011-07-31T17:02:00.002+10:00

Toulon Freestanding Bath

Spent the weekend doing this, with some pilates and cooking thrown in for good measure. I hope yours was just as relaxing!

How can you beat a bath and a good book.

Fly Away

2011-07-24T15:16:00.001+10:00

Framed Butterflies

South African Mud Chandelier

African Glass Beads

More Framed Butterfiles

Clay Navy Butterflies

Glass & Tableware

After a miserable rainy week in Sydney it was a joy to spend time in Melbourne at Decoration and Design. My suitcase is brimming with butterflies, I can't wait to find worthy homes for the pretty pieces I acquired. Here is just a few of the items I have on order.

Restoration

2011-07-19T13:25:00.001+10:00

Whilst browsing the Restoration Hardware website today I was ecstatic to see pictures of their new Beverly Boulevard lifestyle store. The floral display is ingenious! I've also been inspired to paint my walls a dark shade of grey

Dreaming of France

2011-07-18T19:16:00.002+10:00

I have only been back home for three weeks and already I'm dreaming of France!

Image via travelpod.com

From the Bottom of the Garden

2011-07-14T17:18:00.001+10:00

Flowers never fail to lift my mood. I am revelling in my new garden, every week it delivers up new bounty. The endless supply of flowers, herbs and citrus brighten even the coldest of days.

Brand Love

2011-07-07T18:43:00.000+10:00

Hastily Taken Pics!

As a general rule I'm not a label lover, why become a walking billboard? Ralph Lauren has always been one of the few exceptions to my rule. I love the home range on its own merit not due to the labelling attached. I covet all things "Ralph" and almost hyperventilated when I visited their new Paris store recently. Every inch of this space is spellbinding, a true lesson in impeccable merchandising.

Calling Me

2011-06-29T19:00:00.000+10:00

Pretty pieces everywhere so hard for a girl to choose. My shopping instincts went into overdrive at the French Brocante markets, much to my husbands distress. He keep lamenting how are we ever going to get all this stuff home.

Brocante Brillance

2011-06-27T08:33:00.001+10:00

One of the highlights of my European trip was a visit to the Antique markets of L'Isle sur La Sorgue. After Paris this collection of Brocante stalls is the largest in France. I managed to fit a few pieces into my luggage. Thanks to the kindness of a Qantas check-in attendant who overlooked my grossly overweight baggage and let me slip through without paying any excess.

This place was stylist heaven.

Doorway to Europe

2011-06-26T19:34:00.001+10:00

St Tropez

Our Villa Avignon

Parisian Doorknob

The French Pavilion Versailles

Barolo Wine Region Italy

Venice

Paris

What a whirl wind, after a cultural trip to Europe I am back a little jet lagged and with a slightly bigger waste line. Sorry for my blogging absence but all my good intentions to post while I was away went out the window. I was too busy having a fantastic time with my two boys!

Bedroom Bliss

2011-06-02T20:53:00.002+10:00

Image via mr and mrs smith

One of the things I love about travel is the opportunity to see different points of view when it comes to interiors. There is no way anyone in Australia would have a bedroom like this but the chance to sleep in such a dramatic space for a few nights fills me with excitment.

Escapism

2011-05-31T12:59:00.001+10:00

Images via Korean Vogue shot on location in St Tropez

With the weather in Sydney turning sour it looks like I have timed my escaped to Europe perfectly. I am going to be enjoying the wonders of St Tropez on my birthday. From the looks off these beautifully styled images I might need to up the anti in the fashion stakes. Though I'm not sure that high heels and the beach really mix!

Culture Club

2011-05-21T15:29:00.002+10:00

This week I was lucky enough to spend a few days exploring China. It's heady mix of modern and traditional architecture proved to be a great inspiration. I spent my time drinking in as many sights and sounds as possible, from the great wall to the great shopping I did it all. Take a look and some of my pretty finds. The detail in the embroidery work is exquisite.

China I am intoxicated by your culture.

Distractions

2011-05-11T20:59:00.000+10:00

Bathroom Selections for Woollahra Terrace Job

Bathrooms have been filling my every waking thought at the moment. I have three bathroom designs to come up with for clients before I'm off on a much anticipated trip to Europe. I adore this soothing scheme and with the short time line I'm ecstatic the client feels the same way.

On With The Show

2011-05-01T20:51:00.001+10:00

Advertising Shot For Vanda Baths
www.vandabaths.com

There has been little time to focus on plans for my own renovation lately. This month I am determined to start documenting my ideas and plans for the build. A while ago I posted some images of this bathroom and it has stuck with me since. This is the inspiration I need to get cracking.

Antithesis

2011-04-19T15:28:00.000+10:00

I know most of you love the "Keep Calm & Carry On" slogan. This take on it reflects my mood the past week to a tee. It's a complete antithesis to the original poster used by the British government. After a hectic few weeks of a busy work schedule, sick child and visiting family I couldn't go past this pocket book when I chanced upon it today. I got a good laugh out of it, I hope you do too.

Holiday Planing

2011-04-06T08:51:00.001+10:00

Maison Matilda Boutique Hotel - Treviso Italy

There is nothing I love more when traveling then a precisely tailored hotel room. Looking back at my blog the posts have taken on a strong feminine flavour, but really this masculine colour palette is much more my personal style.

Your Lucky Day

2011-04-05T15:23:00.007+10:00

Today is somebody's lucky day. I have a pair of pretty french chairs which I mistakenly over ordered for a job. They looked so at home on my front porch as I was photographing them. I need the space though, so if anyone in Sydney is interested I will sell them for $385 each (RRP is $695). Be quick and email me to grab a bargain.

Light the Way

2011-04-04T09:53:00.000+10:00

Last week I was in Woollahra visiting a client when this exquisite lantern caught my attention. I have walked down this street numerous times before but have failed to notice it. Don't you just love the detailed iron bracket?

Blooming Lovely

2011-03-29T13:37:00.002+11:00

At the back of our new garden resides an ugly duckling, a haggard and hacked at tree. Today our tree turned out in full bloom and the duckling turned into a swan. I am the first to admit I was thinking of pulling it out. What a big mistake that would have been. James and I grabbed our basket of suppliers and filled the house with these delicate Camilla flowers.

Weekend Wonderings

2011-03-29T00:48:00.003+11:00

I find the best way to discover a new area is to get your walking shoes on and pound the pavement. My two favourite boys and I had a wonderful Sunday adventure, trailing from our house along the harbour foreshore. Discovering hidden beaches and dramatic views of Sydney heads. I also spied some great gardens and streetscapes in our new neck of the woods. I have plenty of pretty pics to come. This is the only image I can download at the moment, think of it as a teaser.

Get on Your Bike

2011-03-22T19:58:00.003+11:00

Santa arrived at my place a little late this year. Yesterday I finally got my long awaited Christmas present. Ever since I spent my festive break, riding around Rottness Island I have been longing for a vintage bike. This pretty is now in my possession and I made the most of it today. I rode to my village grocer and picked up a few supplies for the week.

John & Ginger

2011-03-18T12:42:00.002+11:00

Part of the fun of moving to a new area is discovering exquisite new stores. This one is bound to become a favourite. John & Ginger in freshwater is a delightfully styled space. It has an air of the Caribbean with a twist of African style mixed in for good measure. I love to see stores where the owner has a real pride for the goods they sell and this is no exception. Purchases are beautifully wrapped, receipts are popped into red Chinese money parcels (a quirky touch that made me smile). Retailers take note, in order to beat the deluge of online shopping you need to turn your shopfronts into a destination. Many lessons could be learnt from John & Ginger.

One Petal at a Time

2011-03-16T19:19:00.001+11:00

I decided it was time to hone my floral arranging skills. Here are the results of a morning spent playing around. I love the anticipation of going to the flower markets, you never know what you will end up with.

Something Somers

2011-03-07T13:18:00.008+11:00

I thought it was time I shared this little gem with you. A beautiful blog dedicated to the photography of my very talented sister in law. These are just a few of my favourite images check it out for yourself.

www.somethingsomers.blogspot.com

Tiny Treat

2011-03-01T20:09:00.002+11:00

A small cottage can have just as much street appeal as it's million dollar neighbors right? I smiled when I saw this teeny tiny one bedroom Paddington abode. I just love the way the owners dressed it up, so cute!

The Secret's Out

2011-02-17T20:41:00.004+11:00

Not a lot of words are needed here, just look at these lovely images of the new Secret River linen range. I only discovered this brand last week, look what I have been missing out on.

Feels Like Home

2011-02-09T18:54:00.001+11:00

If I have to pick one room to keep free of boxes and moving paraphernalia it has to be the bedroom. At least this one space does not look like total chaos. I am surprised by how well the furniture from my terrace fits into a beach shack. I have some new pieces on order but things still look presentable in the meantime. For a girl who is normally a lover of ebony floors I must say I am truly converted to the lighter side!

Coming Home

2011-02-02T19:12:00.001+11:00

Here are a small sample of some the beautiful pieces I ordered at the Decoration & Design trade fair today. I think a few of these lovely items might also sneak into my place.

Let The Sun Shine

2011-02-01T19:14:00.000+11:00

With the temperature in Sydney today topping 4o degrees it looks like I made the move to beach just in time. This morning I woke up to find pelicans swimming on the water outside my window. I got so excited I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. As the temperature soared I packed up James and the beach umbrella and walked down for a dip. Work will still be there tomorrow, I figured it was more important to cease the moment!

Moving Day

2011-01-24T09:33:00.002+11:00

So the time has finally come for the big move from Paddington. The day looms large, it's moving time. The floors at the new house have been lime washed and the walls painted in preparation for our arrival.

Au-revoir Paddington hello paradise!

image via blushless.com

Paddington Lights Up

2011-01-18T20:41:00.000+11:00

The streets of Paddo are filled with an eclectic array of entrance doors, the adjoining lanters also make great spotting!

Bow Chic

2011-01-06T21:07:00.004+11:00

Rivera Maison Mirrors

I am so in love with this image I can't wait to use these mirrors in my new place. I think I will place my own twist on them though and replace the ribbon with some brightly coloured alternatives.

The Tower Room

2011-01-03T15:24:00.005+11:00

Whilst holidaying with family in Western Australia over Christmas I came across this enchanting house. Located just a stones throw from one of Perth's iconic beaches the tower room must have been built to captor the ocean vistas. I wonder who lives here, maybe Rapunzel?

Wishing You A Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T09:00:00.000+11:00

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday. Thank you to all my lovely readers for your kind comments and most importantly for continuing to tune into a small slice of my working life. I hope the images and information you find here continue to prove relevant and inspirational to you.

Merry Christmas with love Bree.

image found on inmyhousedesign.blogspot.com

Do You See What I See

2010-12-19T18:38:00.002+11:00

What a lucky find! On my way home from the farmers markets this Saturday I came across this lovely chair abandoned on the side of the road. It's crying out for some TLC and the rattan seat is beyond repair. I plan to add a new upholstered seat pad, I'm not sure if I want to refinish the frame as I quite like the chipped layers of white and aqua paint built up on the timber.

Anyone around Five Ways on Saturday must of had a good laugh seeing some crazy woman running around the lanes of Paddington with a baby munching away on bunches of flowers in one hand and a broken chair balanced in the other!

Christmas Wish List

2010-12-13T13:41:00.004+11:00

In January I say goodbye to my Paddington terrace and a big hello to my charming new house. The new place is surrounded by miles of bike tracks that circle Sydney harbour, so the number one item on my list to Santa (a.k.a my husband) is this bike. I love everything about it, the colour, the basket, I wonder if the flowers are included?

All I Want For Christmas

2010-12-07T20:04:00.008+11:00

All I want for Christmas is a week at Norma House on Palm Beach. If you could do with a few days R & R check out this blissful beach pad at www.stayz.com.au

That cane lounger has my name written all over it.

Little Girls Room

2010-11-23T18:24:00.002+11:00

This room that I installed last week will provide a perfect nights sleep for any little occupants.

First Purchase

2010-11-16T16:24:00.000+11:00

Now that I have made my first purchase

I'm officially in new house mode. I ordered two of these beauties today for the outdoor cabana room, what do you think?

P.S I hope my husband doesn't read this I might be in trouble!

Open the Doors

2010-11-16T07:52:00.000+11:00

Town & Country Style opened the doors to their long awaited Sydney showroom this month. I dropped by last week and picked out some delectable goodies for clients. I'm loving having this beautifully styled space at my disposal.

Worn & Weathered

2010-11-15T17:48:00.002+11:00

Today I delivered this lovely dining room cabinet and table to a client of mine. These pieces have a rustic charm that infused the space with a sense of casual chic.

Flowers Flowers Everywhere

2010-11-08T19:27:00.001+11:00

I must be crazy, what was I thinking buying a new renovation project just before the Christmas rush for my business begins. I have too many things on my to do list and not enough hours in the day. The only ray of light is the fact that my house currently looks like a florist. Between presenting the house for sale and the blooms I have ready to go out on job installations the place is full of sweet perfume acting like adrenaline and keeping me going.

Beach House Goes Glam

2010-11-01T16:00:00.005+11:00

These pictures are going straight into my inspiration file for the new house. Even though I'm moving to the beach I still need to maintain a little glamour in my life.

images via realestate.com.au

Movement at the Station

2010-10-29T18:15:00.005+11:00

This week I bought a new house. I wasn't even looking, how did this happen? As you can see by the view from our new place we're not in Paddington any more Toto. It was the water view, big yard and the prospect of an exciting new renovation project that seduced me. Paddington is still my home until next year and it will be with a heavy heart that I say goodbye. All the same I'm just about busting out of my skin at the prospect of renovating my lovely new Sydney sandstone and weather board beach house.

Soak Away Your Troubles

2010-10-26T14:53:00.001+11:00

Luxury bath manufactor Vicotria & Albert is releasing a new design called Toulouse, based on french double ended bath designs from the 1860's. Until their press release came across my desk this morning I had never head of this supplier. Their website is well worth a visit it contains endless inspiration.

I once lived in a house without a bath and I must attest I only lasted a year. I could not do without my nightly soaking ritual.

www.vandabaths.com

Little Pieces of Lovely

2010-10-22T01:08:00.001+11:00

Here are some pretty pieces to inspire you this weekend. At the moment I'm going through a trimmings stage. I want to adorn everything insight with tassels and baubles.

*note to self, I must figure out how to get rid of this darn underling.

Romo Wallpaper & Trims

www.romo.com

Swedish Stunner

2010-10-18T08:36:00.000+11:00

One of my readers, Tina sent me these images of her luxurious Swedish home. Tina has her own blog www.signedbytina.blogspot.com which details her passion for interior design. She has spent the past two months renovating her stunning apartment and is still in the process of decorating. As you can see from the pictures Tina has a love of wallpaper and texture. Much of the artwork throughout the home was created by her (what a clever girl).

Byron Beach Break

2010-10-16T13:21:00.000+11:00

Sun, sand and shopping what more could a girl want!

Need I say more.

Shop images taken at Island Luxe Bangalow.

Colour By Numbers

2010-10-15T15:42:00.005+11:00

I have spent a wonderful relaxing week up in Byron enjoying a family reunion and christening my son. While exploring Bangalow I came across Heaths Old Wares a stylist idea of heaven. I was infatuated by his selection of scrabble pieces in an array colours, so much so that these made it home with me.

check out "Heaths Old Wares" blog www.heathsoldwares.com.au

Wonderful Windows

2010-10-05T22:01:00.000+11:00

At the moment I am working on a lovely place in Centennial Park. It's still in the early stages and we are waiting on more finishing touches but I'm overcome by the beauty of the lead light windows in the home. Normally I am not a fan of lead lights however these are stunning and I used them as my jumping off point for the entire decor scheme.

Please excuse my poor quality camera phone pic!

Hughenden

2010-09-26T14:37:00.001+10:00

This weekend I popped into the Hughenden a great Paddington/Woollahra institution. The boutique hotel and restaurant is housed in an architecturally significant period manor. I can't get enough of the new makeover given to the dining space, it has a total new lease on life. The perfect spot for sunday brunch or high tea with some friends. I'm not sure which designer is responsible for the stylish fit out, please drop me a line if you know.

www.thehughenden.com.au

Dark & Stormy

2010-09-16T20:48:00.000+10:00

Today I'm feeling a little dark and moody, much like these images of the Stanley Furniture City Club range. Don't you just love the patina on the timber paneled walls! Back in my old days as a buyer I use to order in a selection of the Stanley range. Oh how I miss their beautifully styled catalogues.

images via stanley furniture

Bathed in Light

2010-09-08T10:18:00.000+10:00

This perfect Palm Beach house poped onto my computer while I was checking out holiday rentals for the upcoming October long weekend. It's like the owner can read my mind, it's everything I love combinded into one stunning beach pad. Norma house is avaliable for holdiday rentals, check it out at www.stayz.com.au

The black lanterns on the deck have inspired a new project of mine which I hope to show you soon.

Suit Up With Ralph

2010-08-30T20:02:00.008+10:00

My personal design style has always had quite a masculine edge. I gravitate towards strong dark colours, that is why I'm loving the new Ralph Lauren Brooks Street Collection.

With tailoring influences and a dash of deco styling its enough to make me go weak at the knees.

all images via ralph lauren home

Bathroom Beauty

2010-08-25T19:02:00.004+10:00

This bathroom combines all my favourite design elements in one room.

- great lighting, I use wall sconces in every bathroom design I work on
- beautiful tap wear, leaver handles are my number one choice
- marble floor & bench top
- a freestanding tub
- last but by no means least a stunning duel sink vanity

Sign me up for one of these bathrooms today!

Image via traditional home magazine

Colour My World

2010-08-19T20:43:00.000+10:00

I often get emails from readers requesting the paint colours I have used on previous jobs. So I thought I would do a post on my favourite paint supplier Porters. When it comes to colour or specialty paint finishes no one beats Porters. From their milk based furniture paints to the the liquid nails range, I love it all!

You can check out some of their great options at www.porterspaints.com

Nothing will dramatically update your interior faster or cheaper then a new coat of paint. Don't just confine yourself to walls, floors and furniture can take on a new life too.

all images via porters

Paddington Pile

2010-08-16T13:17:00.010+10:00

For those of you that having been following my blog from the beginning you will remember some of my earlier postings on fashion designer Collette Dinnigan's Paddinington properties. Well it turns out Miss Dinnigan has just put her newly renovated Paddington Street sandstone stunner on the market. Apparently she is planing to move back into her ten million dollar Underwood Street Paddington pile.

images via www.mcgrath.com.au

New Love

2010-08-11T15:36:00.002+10:00

Muirfield Bench by Downtown

I have a new love! This gorgeous bench was featured in the pages of Lonny Magazine. One problem though the supplier does not distribute in Australia. If anyone has seen something similar in Oz please let me know.

Ps. I have no idea why this post is underlined & I can't figure out how to remove it sorry!

Room With A View

2010-08-07T15:31:00.000+10:00

Atmospheric Di Mare Restaurant

Our Breathtaking Table At Di Mare

Nammos Beach Club Terrace

Stone Stairway

Main Pool At Banyan Tree

Horizan Edge Pool - Banyan Tree

Pool Bar - Banyan Tree

cabana - Nammos Beach Club

Maybe if I close my eyes and click my heels three times I will be transported back to my lovely Bali vacation a fortnight ago. luckily the weather in Sydney is beautiful today so it's not too painful having to view these holiday snaps again.

Detailed Design

2010-08-04T16:53:00.001+10:00

Imposed Tile Patterns

Mother Of Pearl Inlayed Timber Columns

Hand Beaten Metal Details

Herringbone Textured Wallpaper In The Master Bedroom

As we all know the devil is in the detail. These pictures show that finishing touches do matter. All the images were taken during my holiday to the newly opened Banyan Tree Resort in Bali. The Hotel is located in the more remote Ungasan area. Each villa has its own private horizon edge pool perched on the cliff top overlooking the secluded beach, bliss!

Tropical Retreats

2010-07-29T20:22:00.000+10:00

Well it's back to reality for me. I arrived home today into the midst of a Sydney winter, the dream is well and truly over. For the last week I have been floating through the days in a seriously relaxed state. There must have been something in the tropical air as James slept like an angel.

I have lots of gorgeous drool worthy pictures to post once I download my camera. In the mean time here are some inspiring interiors from the book I was reading on the plane "Great Escapes Asia".

all images via "Great Escapes Asia by Christiane Reiter"

A Piece of Paddington

2010-07-21T09:41:00.000+10:00

I couldn't resist snapping this slice of Paddington on my morning walk. A fine example of a juliet balcony "Romeo Romeo wherefore art thou Romeo".

We are off to Bali later this week so I will be taking a short blogging break. I'll be back soon with lots of tropical style inspiration.

Decoration & Design

2010-07-19T19:58:00.000+10:00

Above Images All From Town & Country Style Stand

Carina Sherlock Stand

Emac & Lawton Lantern

Tile Detail - Crown Complex

Cafe Lighting Stand

Decoration & Design proved to be well worth the trip to Melbourne. The real stand out for me was the gorgeous selection of new lighting from suppliers like Emac & Lawton, Velvet & Vixen and Town & Country Style. In the past it has always been a real struggle to find wall sconces and pendants that appealed to my aesthetic. Thankfully these suppliers have headed the call and provided us with some real beauties.