September 26, 2008

Kitchen


Have you ever imagined a kitchen with a chandelier in it? Somehow this doesn't look out of place. The setting is grand without being over-the-top. (Don't forget the ceiling artwork!)

Streamlined kitchen space for a serious cook who likes to have a bit of fun. 

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September 21, 2008

Lounge


This lounge gives the impression of being able to change around in a jiffy. A simple room which lends itself to change and adaptation. A cottage-y, cosy feel, especially lends itself well to small rooms - you may care for bolder colours, but try not to overwhelm a small space.

You may notice that the furniture is a mix and match of different styles. If your budget is small then consider purchasing used furniture that is well made - if purchasing wooden items then check for and avoid woodworm or other deficiencies. If your intended seating purchase is upholstered then look beyond shabby covers and try to imagine of your ideal covers and consider having a good upholsterer work magic on the item(s).

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September 15, 2008

Lounge

Here's a variation on the white lounge from the previous post for those you wary of spoiling the look (all white) with everyday thrills and spills.
This room is still beautiful and more practical in a sense. A room for the family where a few scuffs actually add to the relaxed combinations. High ceilings, wooden floors and simple accessories and a mix of comfortable sofas and chairs. Again a great room to relax in. Sigh.....!!


[Remember: Click to expand all images in posts]


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September 14, 2008

Lounge



I know that living in a white room isn't the most practical if you have young children and don't want to worry about every stain but...it does look beautiful and is so wonderful at night. Especially if you light scented candles. The key to ensure you don't spend your life cleaning is to have removeable, washable covers on sofas and cushions, don't have white carpets (?), but light coloured wooden flooring, use washable low sheen paint on surfaces. For the high ceilings and beams ensure you have an ultra long-handled quality duster and just have a quick swipe around every so often.

What a great way to relax in the evenings!

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September 11, 2008

Solar Light


This light is such a good idea. Place it in a position to absorb sunlight during the day and it can be used as a nightlight both inside and outside the home. A great price too -  converted to USD would be no more than $40.00 (excl. delivery charge) from John Lewis.

Neat, compact, easy to store when not in use and eco-friendly too!

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September 9, 2008

Kitchen


If you are a regular visitor here you may know that I prefer simplicity - this kitchen is a good example. Note: The addition of colourful ceramic bowls to break up the expanse of white. The lack of window dressing, the work surfaces and the chrome additions - large and small.

This is not a large space but it has been designed to be functional and a great place to be in.

If your budget is small focus on the accessories, the wall hangings, maybe add a chalkboard, a wall clock, colourful tea-towels, colourful bowls for the sink, a hardy plant which requires minimal care. In a small kitchen keep as many items off the work surfaces. If you are planning on painting the walls then choose a colour which you can live with long term and also choose a paint specifically for kitchens - easy to wipe clean and will maintain that freshly painted look for longer.





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September 3, 2008

Door


This is my third featured door here and I love this one because it looks used, worn - a practical yet beautiful adornment for an entrance. I look at the double doors and try to guess the age, type of wood. It is grand and beautiful and has stood the test of time with no-one, of late, polishing it, caring for it, yet it still stands proud and strong. It does give a hint of being altered over time with various bits added to try and prolong its life - a bit like having cosmetic surgery - yet it has actually worked!

Do you enjoy doors as much as I do? 

September 1, 2008

Fireplace

There is nothing to beat a cosy fireplace and one that is recessed into the wall, high off the ground and looks beautiful ticks all the boxes for me. It is uncluttered yet stylish. A feature that will blend into most modern homes and yet not look out of place in older properties.

This would work especially well in a small lounge or where space is at a premium.

Wonderful! 

August 26, 2008

Garden


If you have no real garden area to speak of, maybe just hard standing, gravel or some such area, it is still possible to create a garden space which is easy to maintain and looks wonderful.

Ensure you use planters which will ensure adequate drainage. Try not to rush to a garden centre and buy everything at once. It is far better to allow, even a small area, to grow organically - add to it gently. Have a plan and choose plants that won't block the path to and from your house. These areas are great for having a few pots dedicated to growing kitchen herbs. tomatoes and such like. 

August 24, 2008

FREE: Need A 125x125 Banner Design?


I have been noticing how many people don't have a small banner ad that promotes their blog.

So I have decided to do something that may be mutually beneficial.

I am offering to create a free 125 x 125 banner for 10 blogs who express an interest.

There are some conditions but I don't think they should be enough to put someone off!

Here we go:

1. Tell me in no more than 50 words why you want a banner created  for your blog (give me the URL and words you would like on the banner)

2. Describe your blog in no more than 10 words or short phrases (this will help me with the design)

3. Promise to use the design to promote your blog for at least 30 days after receipt

4. Add my small banner to your site for 30 days minimum.

5. All entrants should email me at: lucindapalmer [at] ymail [dot] com. 

Easy. No money changing hands, no writing about this post is necessary (although you can if you wish), no grovelling required at all! Just basic information. Depending on the number who apply I may even mention all applicants in a later post. I aim to have completed all banners before the end of September 2008. 

Closing Date: Sunday September 7th 2008 at 8pm EDT.

Late requests cannot be considered - sorry!

August 22, 2008

Lounge


Sheer understated glamour. Refined styling from the old-school.  Jan Showers, interior designer extraordinaire. 

August 18, 2008

Oil Lamp


This is not a candle but an oil lamp. Designed by Julia Thesenfitz and is available on the internet priced at $200 but I found it for $75 at VesselGallery.com.

Made from porcelain and the 'matchstick' is made from brass. This is bound to be considered a classic in the not-too-distant future and will be around for a long time to come.