escapade: 11/1/11

Monday, November 7, 2011

A thought for the new week 7.11.11

I've seen this quote a few times recently and am starting to feel that I should pay attention and take note.

So, for a Monday and for those moments when it's not so easy...

{Photo: Cote Ouest via dress, design, decor}

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Pretty pieces in white + gold {Shan Annabelle Valla}

I was quite smitten when I recently discovered the beautiful ceramic pieces by London based artist Shan Annabelle Valla. Strikingly simple with a bit of a playful twist on simple classic pieces. There were so many pieces I loved from her collections, so expect to see her featured here again, but for today I wanted to feature these beautiful porcelain milk bottles. Each handcast from an original English milk bottle, and glazed on the inside so that you can use them to carry liquids. Topped with a 10K gold luster stopper or a little gold finch, they are a glamorous twist on an everyday object. Put them on display or be a little more decadent and use them to hold your milk or cream in the fridge to add a little extra luxury to the everyday.

{Photos: Shan Annabelle Valla}

A new neutral? Aubergine in Autumn

There's something that seems quite rich yet mysterious about deep, sensual aubergine tones, especially when found in plush velvet upholstery. Somehow it feels like an upgraded neutral here, paired with natural jute rugs. A rich and unexpected alternative to a charcoal or chocolate brown, still quite versatile and not overpowering. The romantic chandelier, elegant French style chairs and little touches of leopard print add a bit of glamorous, sexy appeal.

{Photos: Mary McGee}

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Warm + Sultry

With the sharp chill in the air drawing us indoors, there's a strong pull towards warmer tones, plush textures and luxurious comfort. The Rees Roberts firm seems to have captured this feeling so beautifully in this Park Avenue apartment - the soft and sultry tones of dusky, pale lilac, soft orange and warm taupe, rich wood, luxurious tactile fabrics and an overall sense of calm that seems so seductive to retreat to on a cold November evening.

I'm not always an advocate of paint effects on wall (bad 80's flashbacks), but this simple geometric design has turned the entire wall into a subtle work of art.

The graphic black and white fabric on a single occasional chair packs just the right amount of punch in this otherwise muted space.

{All photos: Rees Roberts}