ish and chi

Fashionably Late Friday: Dancing in the vines

2012-02-12T22:50:00.000+11:00

These photos were taken from my trip away last weekend to the Hunter Valley.

Dancing in the vines in the sun. Only a couple of hours from Sydney.

Hope your weekend has been lovely.

Creative Space: Puddin'head Studio

2012-02-09T08:28:00.000+11:00

In April 2010, I wrote about having met Sydney based printmaker and designer Richard McAdam at an exhibition and having seen his work for the first time. Back then Richard's Puddin'head business was only very new and his beautiful designs caught my attention, not to mention he was lovely to chat with.

Since then he has released new designs of tea towels, a cushion range, worked with Danish company arytrays to release a range of trays with his designs and, have you seen the cover of the beautiful book The New Artisans by author Oliver Dupon? That is a Puddin'head design on the cover!

I asked Richard if he would like to share images from his studio. Here is a peek into his creative space and a glimpse at what goes into making a Puddin'head design.

Thank you Richard.

♥ Visit Puddin'head

If you have a creative space you would like to share, please contact me. I would love to hear from you.

Fashionably Late Friday: Birthday weekend

2012-02-04T23:03:00.002+11:00

I spend last night imagining myself tell people that I am thirty three. Thirty three. How did that happen? The years have been fun though!

I am in the Hunter Valley this weekend, enjoying the wine, the cheese, the olives, the air. Oh, how beautiful it is and how lucky I am to be here.

Thirty three.

It will take a little while to adjust. Happy weekend, friends.

♥ Dress: Sportsgirl

♥ Shoes: Steve Madden

Creative Space: Urban homes of artists and innovators

2012-02-03T15:45:00.001+11:00

Taking a look inside the homes of creative people inspires me. Their homes provide not only a glimpse into their lives but also into their creative process - a quickly drawn sketch, a few photographs torn from magazines and fixed to the wall, leftover paint, a jar of pencils - I love all of these details.

My partner recently gave me the book Creative Space: Urban homes of artists and innovators as a gift. It features the apartments and homes of designers, stylists, artists, innovators to name a few and most of the interiors have a pop culture vibe to them. It has become one of my favourite reads.

The featured homes are filled with vintage furniture and finds, collectables, artwork resting against walls, window sills and above bookcases and piles of books in various corners. All of the spaces are very much lived in by the owners. These are just some of my favourite pages from the book.

If you have a creative space you would like to share on ish and chi, please contact me. I would love to hear from you.

French circus style wedding

2012-02-02T23:26:00.000+11:00

You may already know that I have a crazy obsession with all things circus related. I find there is something magical about the circus and the whole performance - the colours, the show, the costumes. Please allow me to indulge in a little circus fun today with this wedding.

Christine and Pierre's wedding is beautifully styled and they pulled of the themed-but-not-too-themed look well. There is only a hint of circus inspiration in the colour scheme and of course the big top tent gives it all away.

Wedding photographed by Davidone. You can see more photographs at Rock n' Roll Bride.

If you liked this wedding you might also like this circus style wedding.

Wallpaper samples

2012-02-01T09:00:00.008+11:00

Recently I ordered some wallpaper samples from Cole & Son and I think I know which wallpaper I'm going to choose for the entrance to my home. I have written about it previously. There were slight colour variations which made choosing the right paper difficult using a computer screen but seeing them in person makes me feel more confident in my decision.

Can you believe it has taken me over 2 years to make a decision?

Hanging wallpaper is not too difficult and I plan on hanging it myself as I did for the study but this time, I will enlist some help because wet wallpaper can be surprisingly heavy!

Are there any patterns that you fancy from this collection?

Billy buttons

2012-01-31T09:00:00.001+11:00

What is your favourite flower?

Mine are billy buttons and I seem to be slowly filling my home with them. They tend to lose their vivid yellow colour over time and that's where a DIY version would make a perfect substitute. But regardless they last an incredibly long time.

And who knew they can be found in red too?

On the coffee table

2012-01-30T08:40:00.000+11:00

My poor little ottoman hasn't had much luck lately. Firstly coffee was spilt on it, then the upholstery cleaner made the stain worse when trying to clean it. So these days I stack books on the ottoman to hide the mess. Hopefully I can get it sorted.

So, what's on your "coffee table"? Books? Decorative items? Flowers? Nothing?

I love my stack of books and I'm trying to keep the pile from creeping too high. On the ottoman I've stacked some of my favourites design and photography books: domino (still love this book), Decorate by Holly Becker, food fashion friends by Fleur Wood, The Selby, 52 Suburbs, Marilyn Monroe by Bert Stern.

There are also a couple of recipe books: Kitchen Garden Companion by Stephanie Alexander and Hunger for Freedom by Anna Trapido.

And a stack of magazines: yen, Monster Children, Lula, Inside Out, Spaces by Frankie Magazine, madison, Elle Decor, Real Living and RUSSH.

Do you have any of these books? Any coffee table books you might recommend?

Fashionably Late Friday: Little summer dress

2012-01-28T23:50:00.001+11:00

Having no camera these last few days has made me feel lost and the iPhone camera is just not the same. So I took myself to a camera store this weekend and finally invested in a Canon EOS 7D.

I LOVE IT.

It was a choice between it and the Canon 5D Mark II but I had to keep within my budget. One day I hope to own a 5D.

I am still working my way around the camera but these are a few shots taken today. It was a hot and humid day and the perfect weather for a little summer dress.

PS. You can see outtakes of my fashion friday photos on the ish and chi facebook page.

Happy Australia Day

2012-01-26T21:53:00.000+11:00

These last few days have been madness and I will be back to tell you more shortly about what I have been up to. It's all exciting! But for now, I need to catch up on some sleep. See you back here soon.

Interior Inspiration: Multi coloured mirror

2012-01-17T23:23:00.000+11:00

A traditional mirror with a multi coloured twist to it - this is an idea that I will be filing away for use one day. It creates such a bold statement to a room, acts as a focal point, and I love that the paint appears to be dripping down the side.

Image: Jimmie Karlsson's home photographed by Katarina Malmstrom Brown. See more of this home at Livingetc.

Interior & Style Inspiration: Neon yellow

2012-01-16T08:38:00.000+11:00

A weekend spent with friends and a broken camera means I have fun memories captured on the grainy iPhone so I am in need of a little cheering up and this hit of neon yellow is doing the trick for me this morning.

1. A large bright neon canvas to brighten up an all white room.

2. A solid neon yellow heel which makes me tempted to take a highlighter to an old pair of my own shoes.

What are you up to this week? I have a busy one ahead. Work is back on at full speed and the magazine is launching next week! Lots to do but it is all exciting and I can't wait to show you. Enjoy your Monday.

PS. Because of the camera situation I haven't been able to post a Fashion Friday photo. Hope to sort it out for this week.

Image 1: Kia Designs Apartment via Design Milk
Image 2: Neon heel via Knee On Tumblr

Interior Inspiration: Jayne Mansfield's Pink Palace

2012-01-12T23:38:00.002+11:00

Let's take a step back in time shall we? To 1957 when Hollywood celebrity Jayne Mansfield purchased her home in Sunset Boulevard for $76,000, painted it pink, filled it with cupids, had a heart shaped bathtub installed and filled the fountain with pink champagne. Oh, and she also had her future husband build her a heart shaped pool because she refused to marry him otherwise... or so the story goes.

There is so much that I love about these photographs taken for Life magazine. The aesthetic of the home is far too Barbie doll for me but the images are a wonderful snapshot of the life of a Hollywood star in the 1960's.

Her bathroom would have to be every little girl's dream but all I keep thinking is - who really wants to vacuum walls? PS. Spot the photographer in the photo above.

Sadly the home was demolished in 2002 but if it still existed, I have to ask you, could you live here?

Event: Gorman + Castle Collaboration Launch + Interview with Lisa and Rachel

2012-01-11T23:12:00.005+11:00

I am late in sharing this event with you but it is too good not to. At the end of last year I visited the launch of the Castle + Gorman collaboration range and to see the work of two fabulous designers coming together to create a range of fun summer clothing and accessories. I love collaborations, especially with designers whose individual design aesthetics seem to gel so well together.

The crowd was gathered, the products on display and the drinks were flowing. It was a fun night and I left the event smitten by the range of bright neons on neutral backgrounds. A gorgeous summer combination, and the skirt? It's on my wish list.

Following the event I asked the designers Lisa Gorman and Rachel Castle a few questions regarding how the idea for the collaboration came about, the inspiration behind the range and what it was like to work together.

Rachel Castle and friend

Rachel Castle:
The mind boggles at all the possibilities. For a small retailer being part of the gorman production team was incredibly eye-opening. Lisa's team work efficiently with suppliers all around the world to bring their ideas to market. What takes me (and my team of one!) 6 months to get sourced, sampled and into store can take them literally 6 weeks, and to be honest I just sat in awe of their production capabilities. The process of sharing design ideas and applying them to our product wish list was really very simple and quick and painless, such a breeze, that I would definitely be interested in another collaboration at some point.

My small business changes on a weekly basis. The internet allows us to sell pretty much anything that takes our fancy, so I hope that in years from now CASTLE are involved in projects and making products we'd never even dreamed about. I love retailing as much as I love the physical nature of putting the products together, so it will always be a mix of the two for me.

Margaret Zhang of Shine By Three and Lisa Gorman

Lisa Gorman
Rachel Castle is a gorgeous artist who uses vintage French linens that she sources piece by piece from Europe on which she appliques a very well considered colour palette of hand cut felt letters to make phrases or song lines,... often drawn from and inspired by pop culture. She approached me around the middle of 2011 with a lovely email saying how much she admired the aesthetic and style of gorman, and how she visualises her art somehow on my clothing... oh yes indeed, this was one of those good emails. So I phoned Rachel and off we went.

I had seen Rachel’s work in Inside Out magazine previously and instantly loved its simplicity, pop and colour. I feel that Rachel and I share a deep passion for the same sort of neon pop brights on a counter neutral and weathered base, so working with Rachel was a breeze to be honest, plus she's super nice and happy and friendly ALL of the time.

Rachel flew down from Sydney to meet me in Melbourne with some initial concepts. I put together a bunch of shapes that I thought lent themselves to the look and feel of her work. Nothing too fitted or fiddly as I wanted the print to dominate in this collection... and clearly this has been the case. The phrases were debated around the office, over email, over the phone….and over a few days and we came up with PUT THE LOVE IN THE COCONUT and DO THE CHA CHA. The idea of using these phrases for our Christmas campaign was to focus on festivity, and to do something that was different to the usual religious (ie.. angels) and European (ie, snowflake) concepts which are a long stretch from Australian fashion in high Summer.

Working with fluro in textile prints is bloody hard. There's a compromise between softness and a handfeel with brightness. Basically the softer it gets, the less neon it becomes, so we had some chemistry to deal with but I think we found the happy medium. Organic cotton is used throughout most of the range, being in the cotton jersey t-shirting and the cotton voile styles.

The accessories were important in this collaboration as they provide a way for the slightly less ‘fluro-lovin' of us to get amongst it without going the full outfit. However, if you were to ask me, I'd say get the black COCONUT ballet skirt on with your black DO THE CHA CHA tank and the COCONUT linen hat with the COCONUT tote and off you go... no looking back,.. all the way to Rio baby and pack your COCONUT beach towel in that big tote while you're at it.

I hope you all enjoy the castle & gorman pieces and appreciate the value of artist collaborations like this one for gorman, which goes beyond selling clothing to the customer, they reinforce the values of the gorman brand with our shoppers and prove that we're about recognising and developing great design first and foremost.

♥ Visit Castle and Gorman and thank you Lisa and Rachel for taking the time to share with us the story behind this collaboration.

2012

2012-01-10T23:09:00.002+11:00

Hello! I am back and in the swing of things again. I feel energised from my time off and I'm looking forward to tackling 2012. I have lots of plans and exciting projects for the year ahead and I can't wait to share with you.

If you follow me on facebook or twitter you may already know that I am working as part of a team on a new online life and style magazine to be launched very soon - on the 26 January! I can't wait to tell you more about it and the wonderful team but in the meantime if you would like to, you can follow the new facebook page to be kept up to date on the launch.

I will continue sharing with you here my home decoration and other projects, interesting before and afters, products I come across that I love, events, colour inspiration, beautiful interiors and exteriors and a few dress-ups along the way. Hope you'll join me in exploring 2012 together.

PS. These are some of the last images I have of the summer holidays. Beautiful memories of long lunches, summer fruits and flowers and road trips.

Beach weather

2012-01-03T08:30:00.001+11:00

I spent the day at Bondi Beach yesterday. The weather has been beautiful these last few days. A great start to the new year. I promise I still am on a break, although I'm not doing a very good job of switching off all technology! I must work on that this year.

Dress: Camilla
Beach towel: Rachel + Gorman from their new collaboration range

PS. I recently asked Lisa Gorman and Rachel Castle a few questions on their new collaboration and I will share these with you next.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T23:07:00.001+11:00

Sydney put on a fantastic fireworks display last night to welcome in 2012. I was lucky to have a great view and great company for the evening. This is a photo I took of the fireworks at 9pm. The fireworks at midnight were even more magnificent and the Harbour Bridge came alive. Every year it is amazing to watch the city skyline burst into colour.

How did you welcome in the new year?

Happy New Year to you all and thank you for your continued support and friendship. 2011 was a fun year and to recap a little, I thought it would be fun to share the top 5 posts you liked this year:

So glad to see you love colour as much as I do and enjoyed these tips for adding colour into your home.

This apartment was one of my personal favourites too. I fell in love with the clever use of colour and the floor plan is pretty amazing.

I showed you my new hanging pod chair in the garden. It has been getting some use this summer and when I'm not sitting here reading a book, Robbie is swinging on it!

Adore Home visited my home this year and photographed it for their magazine. I played stylist for the shoot and loved the flowers that were delivered for the day. Thanks again Adore Home.

You liked the idea of creating a DIY wood headboard like one in the image above. The word 'love' hand painted on the wood adds a sweet personal touch. I haven't gone ahead with this idea for Robbie's bedroom because I do agree with you that a headboard with cushioning may be more appropriate for a toddler. Deciding on a headboard is on my list of things to do for 2012 but I must admit he has gone without for so long I'm thinking I should just leave his bed as is.

Wishing you all a beautiful, happy and healthy 2012, friends!

Fashion Friday: The colours of summer

2011-12-30T22:34:00.001+11:00

I am in love with summer in Australia. The sun was out today and I could not resist taking a few photos, in the sand, no beach towel, just lying in the sun. I want summer to last forever.

I am wearing swimwear from Zimmermann as a top, a Sportsgirl skirt, thin belt and bangles that belong to my sister. I am sure she has been wondering where they went to so I am sort of "outing" myself in this post.

I visited one of my most favourite places again today, The Boat House in Palm Beach. I loved the colours of the summer fruits on display. I remember as a child I hated the taste of pineapple. As an adult it is one of my favourite fruits.

Flowers for sale. Pink champagne. Mangoes. Can you see why I love it so much?

Do you have a favourite place you like to visit in summer?

Christmas in Huskisson

2011-12-29T19:00:00.003+11:00

Christmas is magical with children. I had long forgotten the excitement of Christmas Eve and waiting for Santa but now I am experiencing it all over again with Robert. He received many gifts including this toy train set (from IKEA) and it has become a new favourite.

I have really enjoyed having nothing to do these last few days. I am so used to rushing around from work to class to home and it is nice to just relax. No assignments due. No deadlines. It feels pretty good! And the weather is lovely too so we took a trip to Huskisson, a beautiful beachside location (with no 3G coverage!).

How have you been spending your holidays? Or are you back at work?

PS. I'm still taking a little break away to spend time with my boy but you will notice a few small changes here on ish and chi in the meantime as I work on the blog design. Hope you like it. See you back here for more regular posting soon.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T11:19:00.006+11:00

Merry Christmas, friends! I hope you enjoyed the 12 Days Before Christmas series and a big thank you to my guests.

I have taken a little trip away with my boy and family to a beautiful beachside location. It is lovely here and so nice to relax after a busy year. It is filling me with energy and I am almost ready for the year ahead. Thank you for your kind words and friendship over the years. I hope you have a lovely Christmas where you are in the world. Enjoy and smile!

PS. These images are of the only decorating that I managed to do this year. A cluster of wire lampshades fixed to the ceiling and decorated. Something a little different and so easy to do!

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 12 with Lady Melbourne

2011-12-24T22:00:00.002+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 12.

Phoebe lives in Melbourne and has a keen eye for vintage style. She writes almost daily showcasing Melbourne fashion, tips on etiquette and documents various Australian fashion events. And her photography is beautiful.

I asked Phoebe:

What are your tips for what to wear to a corporate, casual or cocktail Christmas party?

The number one tip what ever the dress code is that you have to be comfortable. If you have heels too high, straps that won't stay put or a hem line with a mind of it's own then you won't be able to relax and have a good time. Throw alcohol into the mix and you can see where this is heading!

If you don't think you can last the night in heels then quite simply, don't wear them. There are so many pretty options for ballet flats or jewelled sandals that you can be comfortable but confidently stylish.

♥ Read Lady Melbourne

♥ Follow @ladymelbourne on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 11 with Making It Lovely

2011-12-23T22:00:00.003+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 11.

Nicole Balch has been working on making on her home lovely for her family and documenting the creative process and results on her website Making It Lovely. She has been an inspiration of mine for many years and I am so honoured to have her visiting ish and chi today.

Through the years Nicole's family has grown and her blog not only documents the changes to her home but also her family. It is such a delight following along her journey.

I asked Nicole:

Do you have any tips for people, such as myself, who plan to tackle home renovation projects during the holiday season?

Any time you're taking on a renovation, but especially during a busy holiday season, you have to embrace the chaos. Just give in to the craziness a little, or you'll be fighting a losing battle! Nobody would expect the rest of your home to be spotless, the kitchen to be in perfect working order, or for anything to be done on schedule, so why self-inflict that pressure? I always go into projects hoping for the best, but realistically expecting things to take longer than estimated and be messier than expected, so I'm not surprised when those things inevitably happen!

♥ Read Making It Lovely

♥ Follow @makingitlovely on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 10 with Esme and the Laneway

2011-12-23T10:16:00.001+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 10.

Marianne is originally from London and now lives in Melbourne. She is the author of a beautiful fashion and beauty blog called Esme and the Laneway. Have you read it? If not you must as it's full of gorgeous vintage style and fashion inspiration. And her photography is beautiful. I feel as though I am transported back in time whenever I read her blog.

I asked Marianne:

What are some of your most favourite party season hairstyles?

Here are some images on my favourite party hair for this year!

The most recent pics on my blog are of my hair at the moment, and how I am enjoying wearing it.

The picture of me in the pink blouse is hair for a family gathering + last minute friends party, following a day of painting (hence the green background!) – no time but something fun.

I love vintage hair from a few eras, and my favourites at the moment are the 1930s and 1940s!

Marianne, thank you so much!

♥ Read Esme & the Laneway

♥ Follow @Laneway_Esme on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 9 with Olive & Joy

2011-12-21T20:00:00.005+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 9.

Julie Palmer is the author of Olive & Joy and owner of the beautiful online homewares store by the same name. Julie's style is pure with a mid-century modern aesthetic that I was drawn to very early on in her writing.

Julie has recently given birth to her first child and wanted to congratulate her and also sincerely thank her for contributing to this 12 Days Before Christmas series when she was only weeks away from giving birth!

I asked Julie:

What are your top picks for homewares to give others (or ourselves!) this Christmas?

1. Beautiful Gaze Fine Art Photograph (assorted sizes available) – US$10.00 - $90.00 from Tailed Blue Photos

I’m absolutely in love with this photograph, isn’t it incredibly beautiful? Perfect for the art or animal lover in the family and affordable too as you can select the size you want according to your budget.

2. iittala Clear Savoy Alvar Aalto Vase – US$125.00 from FinnStyle

An absolute design classic, even after 70 years. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to find a Savoy vase under the tree.

3. Areaware iPhone Alarm Dock – CAN$45 from Magic Pony Shop

Brilliant for the tech-savvy husband/brother/father/friend. There are no electrical cables or components, you simply download the analogue clock app, feed through your phone charger and pop in your iPhone.

4. Triangle Cushion – White on Natural Linen - $79.00 from olive & joy

I may be biased but I just love our Triangle cushion. Random hand-cut triangle pattern printed by hand onto 100% natural linen using eco-friendly inks. Comfy, stylish and good for the environment.

5. 70/80/90 Iconic Australian Houses by Karen McCartney - $55.95 from Booktopia

The first book 50/60/70 by Karen McCartney has pride of place on the bookshelf of many a design fiend around the country (including mine) so this one is perfect to add to the collection.

6. Brainbow Wooden Rainbow Toy – US$30.00 by Little Sapling Toys

How adorable is this photo of a child playing with an all natural wooden rainbow toy? So cute. I like to be a bit old-school when it comes to kids gifts – and this one looks good in your stylish home too!

Julie, thank you so very much!

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 8 with Simply Grove

2011-12-20T22:38:00.004+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 8.

Kirsten is an Interior Decorator living in Boise, Idaho and author of design blog Simply Grove. Simply Grove is another one of the first blogs I started reading and Kirsten is an absolute gem.

It is impossible to not be inspired when visiting Simply Grove from Kirsten's home projects to the beautiful interiors and decorating projects that she writes about. There is lots there to spark off a creative idea or two.

I asked Kirsten:

How will you be decorating your home for the holiday season?

This year, I went very family friendly whimsical. A few years ago, my Uncle gave me a collection of wooden ornaments from Holland.

There are little children, soldiers, angels and drummer boys represented. I added some homemade and fabric ornaments with the wooden ornaments on my tree.

The mantel is a woodland treat, complete with animals, mini trees, white village buildings and white ceramics.

I have splashes of red and white around the house as well as handmade snow globes that my daughter and I DIY'd. (Ikea has the cutest red and white holiday candles right now! Pictured) I love traditional elements mixed in with modern and whimsical. It creates such a fun family scene!

I have a few ideas in the works right now. One involving wallpaper!!!

Kirsten, thank you so much for sharing with us!

(Images Simply Grove)

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 7 with A Creative Mint

2011-12-19T20:00:00.003+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 7.

Leslie Shewring lives in Canada and loves colour so much she has a website called A Creative Mint dedicated to her photography of colour schemes as well as her various creative projects.

I know by visiting Leslie's blog that I will be inspired to paint, craft, style, create and surround myself with colour. There are lots of ideas to take away from her projects. And have you seen her column on decor8 - Color Me Pretty?

I asked Leslie:

What colours do you see us being drawn to in 2012?

I think bright bold colors like cobalt blue, clean lemon, and orange reds, will still be going strong into 2012. Pantone believes the "it" color will be Tangerine, which is a pretty fun color to try out. I tend to experiment with a color in fashion first, maybe a Tangerine cardigan or a little nail polish if I am unsure! Then, if I love the color after wearing it for a little while I may try some of that tone in my house, just a small amount at a time.

Adding these "pops" of bold color seems to be the way to go in 2012. I would not wear them head to toe, nor would I paint an entire room in Tangerine. Rather, think about inexpensive and non-committal ways of bringing color into your home and wardrobe to update your look. A bright screen-printed cushion cover, an interesting piece of colorful art from Etsy, or maybe some new little bowls in a bright pattern to display on an open shelf. Same with clothing, maybe try out a belt, some bangles or beads in a new color. Simple ways to dabble and play in bright bold colors that you may normally shy away from.

Thank you, Leslie!

(Images by Leslie Shewring)

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 6 with MadeByGirl

2011-12-18T21:47:00.003+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 6.

Jennifer Ramos is a graphic designer, author of MadeByGirl and owner of an online store by the same name. She has bucket loads of style and her blog inspires me regularly, in particular for the home tours that she posts but more recently for the DIY statement necklace tutorial she shared. Tempted to give it a try.

Jen has a keen eye for art and creates her own as well for her store Cocoa & Hearts. I asked Jen:

Your artwork is beautiful and it is wonderful to see you showcase other artists on MadeByGirl. Who is your favourite artist at the moment?

I love Lana Gomez. Her artwork is so colorful & eye catching! The first time I really noticed her work was when I saw it on the wall in Kelly Wearstler's office. I remember thinking, whoever painted that is genius. Little did I know it was a woman & she's gorgeous as well. Beauty & brains….

Thank you, Jen! See more of Lana Gomez's work here.

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 5 with The Happy Home

2011-12-17T20:33:00.004+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 5.

She is a freelance writer, author of The Happy Home blog, contributor to Kidspot, queen crafter and mum of three. How she does it all, I have no idea! Her blog is full of beautiful craft ideas, creative projects to do with kids and all things related to creating a lovely happy home. Her blog is one of the first I read and loved (before The Happy Home she was the author of a blog called renovate+decorate) and I became hooked on all her decorating projects. It has been fun following Belinda's journey over the years and she is as inspiring as she is lovely.

I asked Belinda:

What are some simple craft / decoration projects you might suggest we try for this holiday season?

I love handmade touches at any time, but especially at Christmas! It just makes the holiday feel less commercial and a little more thoughtful. Just as you wouldn't (or shouldn't!) decorate your home by buying up big in just one store, a happy-feeling Christmassy space looks best with decorations collected over time or created with loved ones - stories and memories fill some of my baubles, my angel and childhood Christmas sack. This year, I'll be making all three kids little stockings and I hope when they're older they'll feel all the love that went into each stitch (and no doubt frustrations and curses that come when I sew!!!). Even if your decorations don't last longer than one Christmas, making them each year is part of the fun - I love sitting with my kids and making things, even if they're just cutting the sticky tape or pasting with the glue. I'm also big on using what you have at home already. And if you look closely, you'll see that you actually have a heap of different things in your kitchen and desk drawers you can use to create beautiful decorations. You might have to spend a couple of dollars on a few things like foam hoops or balls or glitter if you don't have them lying around already, but generally, anything can be used. I've even used toilet paper rolls before! Here are 5 cheap and cheerful suggestions I've done in the past that cost practically nothing and one I'm dying to try this year.

Add a little bit of nature to your space

You don't have to hang ornaments just on a Christmas tree! I wrapped this branch in muslin and hung it on the wall above our couch then wound some fairy lights around the branches. It's up all year round, but looks particularly pretty at Christmas time with a select few ornaments hanging from it. The paper chain is our advent calendar - each paper ring has a (badly) rhyming treasure hunt on it for the kids. We're still debating whether or not to get a real Christmas tree this year, or just stand this one up in a pot instead!

Book page wreath

Seriously, a store in Sydney sells these for $250. I bought a $2 foam wreath and that was it! It took a couple of hours, but worth it, I think!

Glitter vases

Temporary sparkle for your Christmas table - a bit of glue and glitter can transform jam jars, vases or drinking glasses into glam table settings. And by soaking them in hot, soapy water, they'll easily go back to being their normal selves.

Hanging lantern centrepiece

Hang your table centrepiece to free up space on the table - this one is so light it can be taped to the ceiling with masking tape. Why so light? They're made from toilet paper rolls!!

Doily snowflakes

I loved the look of these last year so am going to make some more this year - maybe hang them in front of the window this time. They're so easy to make and quite effective, if I do say so myself!

I'm going to try...

These simple brass tack balls. Aren't they pretty? They look like sequins and I'm very much in love with sparkle and gold at the moment.

Belinda, thank you SO much!

♥ Read The Happy Home

♥ Visit Belinda at Kidspot
♥ Follow @belindagraham on twitter

Images by The Happy Home

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 4 with Smaggle

2011-12-16T22:00:00.001+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 4.

She is the author of a lifestyle website called Smaggle which is a word her and her partner invented and is a cross between a smash and a snuggle. Carly Jacobs is Lady Smaggle and she writes about fashion, beauty, travel, food and her daily outfits. She throws in a good dose of humour too!

I asked Carly:

What are your tips for things to avoid this holiday season?

1. Last Minute Shopping

I refuse to go any where near Bourke Street Mall in December. It's foul. I've already done most of my shopping online. Online rocks because it means I don't have to speak to people or wear pants. Win.

2. Over Eating and Pre-Celebrating

Christmas is one day. This does not mean I get to eat cake, drink champagne and shovel cheese in my gob for the whole month of December. I'm planning to eat before I attend any events and save alcohol for weekends only.

3. Attending Unessessary Social Events

I constantly overbook myself at Christmas time and find that I'm out every single night of the week in December. I'm saying no to everything not mandatory, like drinks with that friend I haven't seen for three years. Bitch please. That can wait till next year.

4. Getting My Routine Out of Whack

I'm going to keep up my regular gym and eating routine wherever humanly possible. Otherwise I'll look and feel like balls on Christmas day because I've existed on nothing but mince pies and marshmallow santas for two weeks.

5. Getting Down in The Dumps

I tend to get a little inexplicably cranky around the end of the year. I'm readjusting my attitude and going in hardcore with the Christmas cheer. And avoiding bitching about the car parks/lines at the supermarket/traffic/other peoples children that are driving me insane.

Thanks, Carly!

♥ Read Smaggle

♥ Follow @ladysmaggle on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 3 with fatmumslim

2011-12-15T17:00:00.001+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 3.

Chantelle is also a Sydney girl, social media editor for Kidspot and writer of fatmumslim. If you haven't visited fatmumslim as yet I encourage you to do so. Chantelle writes about the ups and downs of life, recipes, her family and her little girl. Her writing is like poetry. Her photography is beautiful.

I asked Chantelle:

What are some ways you stay {almost} stress-free and sane during the silly season:

1. Don't sweat the small stuff

Last week my daughter, Lacey, decided that Christmas was over and she'd take down our tree {quite an easy feat, it's no monster} and un-decorate it. Like most trouble toddlers create, this occurred while I was on a work call. Instead of stressing, I took photos and laughed. I'm hoping the tree magically redecorate it's self before Christmas.

2. Pitch in!

Whether you're hosting Christmas yourself, or heading somewhere else - offer to help out or ask others to bring something. It's so much easier to share the load and it's deliciously surprising to try friend's dishes at the dinner table. Hot tip: Offer to bring a salad, bread rolls or an easy dessert. Don't make it difficult for yourself by offering to make tiny towered canapés with expensive ingredients.

3. Go Kris Kringle

About 10 years ago my family started Kris Kringle for buying gifts. We throw all of our names in a hat and we buy $100 worth of gifts for the person we pick out. It takes the stress out of shopping, and doesn't break the bank. It saves time, money and stress - and means less clutter too {less unwanted gifts from family}.

4. Be prepared

There's nothing worse than getting a phone call from a dear friend to say they're dropping by with your Christmas gift … and you haven't got anything to give them in return. Before December rolls around do a handful of things: buy your Christmas cards, get some beautiful wrap and sticky-tape and most of all … get baking. Make an array of beautiful biscuits, but don't bake them. Once mixed freeze them so that you can pull them out and bake them quickly for guests that pop around. Presented in a beautiful box with ribbon and you'll look like you were super organised.

5. Write lists, lists, and more lists!

I'm a list lover so Christmas time is pure joy for me. Write lists for gifts, lists for parties you'll be attending, lists for catering, and to-do lists as well.

6. Shop online

Ditch the crowds this Christmas and shop online. You can find most of your favourite stores have an online shop now, and if not you can probably find a good alternative. Around this time of year there are great bargains online as well as many stores offering free shipping. I love Book Depository, eBay {for new gifts}, etsy, Typo, Kikki-K and ASOS.

7. Get tech-savvy

This year I'm getting with the times and not hand-writing our Christmas cards. I've found an app called Red Stamp that allows me to make beautiful Christmas cards {using photos if that's your thing, or not if it's not} so I can email, text or Facebook my friends to wish them a great Christmas. So that I don't feel like I'm completely taking the easy way out, I can personalise each card much like I would with a handwritten card. Win!

Chantelle, thank you so much!

♥ Read fatmumslim

♥ Visit Chantelle at Kidspot

♥ Follow @fatmumslim on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 2 with Table Tonic

2011-12-14T08:01:00.005+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 2.

She is a Sydney girl who launched Table Tonic - the online home wares store and blog. Prior to that she was the Creative Director for Cosmopolitan, Dolly and Cleo magazines. Louise Bell is one of those absolutely all round lovely people. Add her on Twitter and you'll see what I mean!

On the Table Tonic blog, Louise regularly reviews books and so I asked her:

What are your top picks for design / decorating books to give (or read ourselves) this holiday season?

If I could, I would give ALL of these fabulous new Aussie releases to my loved ones.

70/80/90: Iconic Australian Houses (rrp $79.99) by Karen McCartney

INTERIORS Australia and New Zealand by Mitchell Oakley Smith

Interiors by Martyn Thompson

In particular, I thoroughly enjoyed Karen McCartney's 50/60/70 and found the behind-the-scenes/history of the stunning architecture shown, to be a fascinating read.

Thank you, Louise! Great picks - and I have to also agree with 50/60/70. I'm still in the process of reading it myself and loving the history of the homes. It's a must read, especially if you love Australian architecture.

♥ Read the Table Tonic blog

♥ Visit the Table Tonic online store - Louise is currently offering free shipping on Australian orders until Christmas. Enter the coupon code 'MERRYXMAS' at the checkout.

♥ Follow @table_tonic on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas: Day 1 with Mr Jason Grant

2011-12-13T22:45:00.006+11:00

Over the next 12 days leading up to Christmas I have invited friends and people I am inspired by to share a few words. Today is Day 1.

He is a super stylist living the Bondi life whose work has been featured in Real Living, Inside Out, Living etc just to name a few publications. He documents his adventures on his blog, has collaborated with Murobond to create paint collections and Officeworks to create stationery and style their catalogues and he loves VW kombi vans as much as I do.

I first met Jason when he visited my home to style it for the Real Living shoot. I had no idea what to expect but it was magic watching him touch up my place and I have enjoyed following his journey through his blog ever since.

I asked Mr Jason Grant:

The tag line for your new Murobond paint collection is 'love to paint'. What did you last enjoy painting and what is your next planned paint project?

I do really love to paint just about everything - there's always a paint brush in my sink and I have a sofa upholstered in painters drops sheet too.

The collaboration with Murobond is a deam come true. It's so much fun I'm currently working on the 3rd autumn collection.

The last thing I painted (in several of my Murobond paints of course) were a collection of mismatched timber chairs for my dining room.

No planned projects as they happen at whim - I love a bit of spontaneous decorating but I love hunting out vintage finds and updating them with a lick of paint.

You must see the video for Jason's latest Murobond paint collection, but warning: It may make you crave a road trip.

Jason, thank you!

♥ Visit Mr Jason Grant's blog

♥ See his work

♥ Follow @mrjasongrant on twitter

12 Days Before Christmas

2011-12-13T19:00:00.002+11:00

It is that time of the year, where we are either madly preparing for Christmas or in complete denial that it is less than two weeks away. I am in denial. I still have gifts to buy, a trip to plan, some decorating to do around the home but I am happily enjoying all the events that are happening this time of year! Happy to put on my party shoes rather than hoist up the Christmas tree, that's for sure.

I have however planned something a little special to share with you here on ish and chi. I have invited some of my friends and people I have been inspired by for years to share a few words in the lead up to Christmas - the 12 days before Christmas.

I won't reveal who just yet (although you might guess by the image above) but over the next 12 days there will be guest spots from a stylist, a decorating guru, fashion and interior writers, owners of homewares stores, a DIY expert, photographer and designer. I hope you find their words as inspiring as I do and thank you to my guests for being a part of this.

Creative Space: Brad Robson

2011-12-12T21:35:00.008+11:00

One of my most favourite experiences is seeing where creative people work - their creative space. They have a soul that can't be replicated and provide an insight into the creative mind and process which I love to see.

I recently visited the home of artist and illustrator Brad Robson and he kindly allowed me to share his work and space with you. These photographs were taken by my friend Emily Sephton of No Chemistry. I loved seeing his paintings stacked in the corner, an easel waiting for its next painting and the many layers of dried paint. Spaces like these inspire me.

Brad's street art style has graced the walls of The Hive bar in Erskineville and the SBS STVDIO office. He has also created designs for album covers, skateboards, surf boards and more recently he has been working on a new collection of paintings which you can see here. I asked Brad a few questions.

What is your earliest creative memory and how long have you been an artist?

I remember my father sketching me a picture of 2 boxers fighting, I remember getting so excited when the picture starting taking shape, I just couldn't stop giggling with excitement! I still haven't found anything in life that inspires or excites me as much as a new image. I've been an artist all my life but the last 5 years in particular have been a lot more focused on refining my style.

What are your favourite mediums?

I tend to paint with acrylic when painting on canvas. I love inks on paper, black and white with splash of colour.

What has been your most exciting moment as an artist?

I'd have to say doing the residency in NYC this past June. It gave me a real sense of confidence and opened my eyes to the abundance of art that exists, especially in NYC.

What do you do if you have a creative block?

I don't try and push things if I'm not feeling it. I've learnt to follow my instinct, especially over the past couple of years. If I'm not feeling something, I leave it and start something else.

You describe your art as 'upside down, inside out and back to front'. Tell us a little more about what you are trying to convey through your art?

I guess I try my best to create my own unique worlds, characters and landscapes. I start at point A, and end at point B. What happens in between, I don't really know but it's safe to say it's surreal and unconventional, in a way.

What's next?

I'm currently working towards my first REAL exhibition which I plan on having early next year. After this I'll be travelling to Berlin in June for another residency. I plan on continuing to explore myself as an artist and develop myself as a person (well it's all the same thing

really). Oh, and I plan on focusing on my large scale mural work too, plastering my mark on walls all over the world.

Artist: Brad Robson

Photography: No Chemistry

Michelle Armas Painting

2011-12-12T13:26:00.010+11:00

My Michelle Armas painting (top) arrived from the framing shop. There was a mix up with my order and the wrong frame was used and it had to be re-done.

Unfortunately it was also framed upside down.

I just can't bring myself to go back to my framer again though...

PS. I missed last week's Fashion Friday post. Truthfully, I'm behind in my washing and last week I had to resort to wearing clothes from the back of my wardrobe including gym shorts and tops from the mid-90's. I looked fabulous, darling but you will have to use your imagination.

Products I Love: Cloud shaped cushion by Harvest Textiles

2011-12-08T22:00:00.007+11:00

It was great seeing Harvest Textiles last weekend at Finders Keepers. Their hand screen printed designs on linen fabric are beautiful. Harvest Textiles is run by Emma Byrnes, Jess Wright and Lara Davies who have a passion for quality handmade textiles and sustainability. They run screen printing workshops in their Melbourne studio too.

The cloud shaped cushions caught my attention at Finders Keepers. Cute, aren't they? They are large and would look great in a child's bedroom.

If you are clever with a sewing machine the cloud cushion will soon be available as a DIY kit that you can put together yourself.

(Images by Harvest Textiles)

Interior Inspiration: Mid-century Modern

2011-12-07T01:14:00.006+11:00

I'm writing this post at 1am. I can't sleep.

So instead I have been burying myself in images of mid-century modern homes because I suppose that is what you do if you are design obsessed with nothing else to do?

This weekend I am attending an open inspection for a 1950s home that has popped up for sale in my area. I must say I have been toying with the idea of moving for a little while. Not sure if I can bring myself to actually make the move because I love my cottage home so much but a change does sound good too. Who knows? I may fall in love this weekend.

To see more of this home above, visit Apartment Therapy.

Events: Finders Keepers Summer 2011

2011-12-05T22:07:00.004+11:00

I visited Finders Keepers over the weekend held at Carriageworks in Sydney's Inner West. There were over 80 emerging designers and artists exhibiting and a plethora of products that could have easily sent me bankrupt. Sadly I couldn't stay long but I was able to briefly meet the lovely Renee-Anne Baker of Leeloo who were also exhibiting.

I also spotted Lightly, Attia, Harvest Textiles, Lomography, That Vintage. I fawned over the pinup style swimsuits and floral bathing caps of Sirens Swimwear and fell in love with the illustrative work of Beth-Emily.

Finders Keepers is held twice a year and next time I'm going to be sure to not rush it.

Fashion Friday: Bows + Zippers

2011-12-02T22:04:00.006+11:00

It is December. Where did the time go?

I do like this time of year though. Work starts to wind down, I start to daydream about the holidays and summer sun, and there are lots of events happening.

I wore this dress recently to a birthday party. The fabric is beautiful. There is a zipper detail on the sleeves and back and the cutest bows to finish off the look.

The only problem is that I hadn't realised at the time that I had shopped in the petite section of ASOS. I can't eat (or breathe!) when I wear this dress.

Hope you are enjoying this time of year too and have a fun weekend.

Dress: ASOS

Shoes: Marc for Marc Jacobs

Products I Love: Penny Round Cushions by CASTLE

2011-12-01T07:54:00.007+11:00

I enjoy visiting the CASTLE online store. The products are exploding in bright colour and I just feel happy browsing the website.

I noticed Rachel Castle is now stocking penny round cushions, designed for sitting on top of Bentwood chairs. I think they would look great scattered on the floor of a child's room too, don't you think?

PS. CASTLE delivers worldwide.

PPS. If you are looking for other ideas for adding colour to your home, check out this post: Five colour ideas for your home

All images by CASTLE

Interior Inspiration: Checkerboard

2011-11-30T07:26:00.004+11:00

When a building has good bones it is almost impossible to go wrong when decorating it. This room captured my attention because of the high ceiling, architraves, the all white interior and that window!

But what I love most is the faint checkerboard detail on the floor. It not only serves to further highlight the two spaces but also adds a nice subtle visual interest. Gorgeous, right?

Image by Alvhem

Outpost - Art from the streets

2011-11-29T21:21:00.006+11:00

I am a little behind with my posts these days but did want to share with you my recent visit to Outpost - a project featuring urban art in the industrial space of Cockatoo Island in Sydney. Quite the experience!

I have recently taken a huge interest in street art so this was a real treat for me. If you are in Sydney, the event is on until 11th December. If you can't get there I hope you enjoy this peek into what I hope will continue to be an annual event.

It wasn't me, I promise!

Fashionably Late Friday: Pure white

2011-11-26T17:30:00.005+11:00

It's kind of funny. This idea to take a photo of what I wear. I started doing it so that it would force me to get up and get dressed when Robbie was a newborn. These days he joins me.

Hope your weekend is a beautiful one.

PS. The dress is by Review and is the most versatile dress I own. I have worn it casually with sandals, on a night out and also to the office. The colour attracts red wine stains though.

Rainy days

2011-11-23T08:13:00.004+11:00

It is raining today, and yesterday. There is nothing I love to do more on rainy days than to curl up at home but I have to rush off to work shortly.

People have been asking me lately what my plans are for the holidays. I really have no idea yet! In previous years I have either gone away or watched the New Years Eve fireworks with friends from my balcony. The trees have grown though and it seems we'll need step ladders this year!

Have you planned your holidays? Or are you like me and pretending it isn't only weeks away?

Home Tour: Lucy of Hunting for George

2011-11-18T08:10:00.006+11:00

You may remember I wrote about an online store called HUNTING FOR GEORGE*? They've turned 1! How time flies.

When I was in Melbourne I was lucky to meet the owners and sisters Lucy and Jo. The girls invited me over to Lucy's home for a look at some of their range and a good 'ol chat. Lucy recently sent me photos of her home to share with you. Isn't it a cool space? I can vouch first hand for it's 'coolness' too.

Enjoy and do take a look at their online store. Some of the prints you can buy from there. And plus.. the beach bags are super cute!

(Images copyright Lucy Glade-Wright)

Sweets

2011-11-17T08:09:00.003+11:00

Do you know what I love? Parties. Parties with lots of food. Especially sweet food.

My cousin's beautiful daughter celebrated her 16th birthday recently and my hair matched the colour theme - black and pink. It was no accident of course.

Hope your week is going well!

Fashionably Late Friday: Pink and purple

2011-11-13T20:54:00.005+11:00

Hello everyone! The sun was out these last few days which is why I have been absent. I wanted to show you my new Stevie English hair though. Steve chose a deeper pink and purple colour this time to dye the ends and I love it. Really love it.

I think I will find it hard to go back to natural coloured hair now and the dip dyed look is the best of two worlds - natural + fun colour.

So how was your weekend? My girlfriend and I headed to a festival today and bought ourselves a couple of fake tattoos for a laugh. No surprise, I chose something circus related!

Hope your weekend was fabulous.

Bathroom Tiles

2011-11-10T20:52:00.006+11:00

I still have my bathroom update on my mind and just when I thought I was settled on a choice for floor tiles I came across this image in the latest issue of Madison magazine. The beautiful bathroom is in the Balinese home of fashion designer Natasha Welsh.

The floor tiles are traditional Javanese tiles and the contrast of the pattern with the white of the bath tub, mixed with old wooden furniture is really lovely. And the plants! A bathroom needs plants.

See more of her home here and visit her online store.

The front garden

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001+11:00

I have to start this post by saying Robbie has become quite the photographer lately. This is a photo he took of me yesterday. Of course I was caught unprepared. He took a few shots of the garden too but they turned out a bit blurry. Below are the ones I took. I found it rather cute though when he pointed the camera at a tree and said 'cheese'!

The front garden is looking beautiful. Thanks to my dad and to the sun we have been having lately. The front garden has rickety paving and stones. It will never look perfectly manicured and you know, I don't mind it at all.

I love it.

Fashion Friday: On a Friday

2011-11-04T20:27:00.005+11:00

I'm about to head out but wanted to pop in here to post a Fashion Friday on a Friday, just for something a bit different! Hope your week has been fabulous.

I spent the day today in Potts Point and roamed around the streets after work. Love the suburb. Tomorrow I'm heading to a garage sale to be held by Fashion Hayley and then later Sibella Court's Nomad book launch. And seeing friends and spending time with my boy. Looking forward to it.

Have a beautiful weekend, friends.

Top: Portmans

Jeans: Phillips

Shoes: Kookai

Where I write

2011-11-03T21:00:00.001+11:00

I am thinking I should put the study room to another use. Ever since I purchased my MacBook Pro I never work from there. When the weather is nice I write on the balcony or sometimes I write in bed at night but usually I write here in the living room.

Where do you usually work? Do you have an office/study and do you use it?

Painted firewood

2011-11-03T07:30:00.003+11:00

I always like to see cheeky uses of colour and that is why I think this image is so cool.

Painting the ends of firewood? Never would have thought of it.

(This image was taken in the home of art director Jean-Christophe Aumus and featured in Maire Claire Maison which I discovered via decor8. See here for more images of his home.)

Bedroom Wall

2011-11-01T08:35:00.003+11:00

I have moved the pink sofa I picked up a little while ago into the bedroom. It's a nice little place for Robbie and I to read books in the evening.

The wall is bare at the moment and I am thinking of hanging a collection of mirrors to reflect the view that can be seen from the windows opposite. My inspiration is this grouping of antique mirrors by Anthropologie. I like that the grouping is tight so that it appears as one big piece.

It is going to be an effort to find the right kind of mirrors so I might hit the markets over the coming weeks and see what I can find.

Three

2011-10-28T07:09:00.005+11:00

Dear Robert, Robbie, Roberto,

I'm not sure it is possible to put in words how much you mean to me. My little boy. Who is now three. Wow.

I started this blog to document the progress of your nursery and it felt like yesterday I was choosing furniture for you, decorating your room, wondering what life would be like with you in it. And what a beautiful life it is. Do you think it shows? How much I adore you?

I love your innocent view of life. Every day you are learning and I am re-learning with you. You give me an excuse to be silly and your cuddles are world class.

When you wake up in the morning and hop into bed at night you tell me you love me "200".

I love you 1 million. And more.

Happy birthday cheeky boy.

Mum

Bathroom Renovation

2011-10-27T07:38:00.004+11:00

Over the next few months I plan to update the bathroom. I still need to save up but in the meantime I have started sourcing materials, including these tiles from Art of Tiles.

The hexagon tiles are for the floor and the subway tiles are for the walls and I will use a grey grout. I still really like the blue subway tiles I posted earlier. I'm not sure they will look as good with grey grout though.

This is what the bathroom looks like at the moment. I will keep all the plumbing as it is to save costs. The bath / shower needs a new screen because it is broken. The plan is to tile to the ceiling, replace the towel rack with a new one, update the handles of the vanity because they have rusted and resurface the bath. I have a few other things in mind I would like to try too but I will see how far my budget can stretch!

I have already made changes to this bathroom when I first moved in. See here for what it looked like previously. There was no toilet and so the double vanity was replaced with a single vanity to fit a toilet in the space. The walls were painted and a new shower head was installed. It has served us well and there is really no immediate need to update but what I have in mind I think might look beautiful. Fingers crossed.

Palm leaves wallpaper

2011-10-25T08:18:00.006+11:00

No doubt you have seen this Cole & Son 'Palm Leaves' wallpaper previously but I am enjoying it again and I'm on the hunt for two rolls!

Top image is of Shannon Fricke's bedroom and bottom image is via House of Turquoise.

Fashionably Late Friday: Lazy Sunday

2011-10-23T10:42:00.006+11:00

Confusing post title isn't it? Sorry to be quiet this week (and late!). It's been a busy week but I'm going to spend today relaxing at the beach, eating fish and chips and maybe even some shopping. Who knows how the day will end up though? That's what I love about lazy Sundays.

Hope you are having a beautiful weekend.

Subway tiles

2011-10-18T08:20:00.004+11:00

I went tile hunting over the weekend. I have been looking at updating the main bathroom and I love the look of subway tiles.

I will probably end up choosing white subway tiles but how tempting are these coloured ones?

(Top image Victor Vauthier for Tank Summer 2011, Bottom image Katie Ridder)

Colour Burst: Paris circus

2011-10-17T07:00:00.003+11:00

I adore this fashion shoot by Paul Schmidt for Jalouse June/July 2011 for a few reasons - it features pink haired model Charlotte Fee, it has a circus feel and you know how much I love anything circus related and also the colours are beautiful.

So I'm referring to these images for the second Colour Burst feature. If I could design a room around these colours I would imagine:

Pretty pink striped walls, a bed with a dark grey deep buttoned bed head, vintage ivory coloured bedding and ruby red side tables.

One can only dream....

Previous Colour Burst:

Pale and inky

(Images Paul Schmidt for Jalouse June/July 2011, Paint swatches by Porters Paints)

Stevie English Hair

2011-10-14T18:13:00.011+11:00

I have taken my love of colour to a new level - my hair. The pink hair trend isn't a new one but it has taken me a while to find the courage. I have spent a good part of about 8 years growing out all shades of blonde but you only live once, right?

So pink it was and when I mentioned to friends what I was thinking, the name Stevie English was recommended to me by many. It's as though colour + hair = stevie.

So I contacted owner Stevie Corthine via twitter, promised to send a photo of what I was after and the ball was set in motion.

The salon is striking with dark floors and chairs, red storage cabinets and graphic wallpaper. Stevie explained the salon was designed by a friend with sustainability in mind to create minimal environmental impact. Energy efficient hot water and 4/5 star water saving devices are used, recycled materials and low wattage fluorescent lighting together with natural light. The fit out took approximate 4.5 months to complete before the salon was opened in November 2007.

I arrived with Robbie and was unsure if I had made the right decision to bring him with me. After all toddlers can't sit still for longer than a few minutes let alone hours. Stevie's team were wonderful though! They entertained him, kept him occupied with movies on an iPad and made it all feel so easy.

Stevie wanted the salon to have a unique and trendy vibe. I love the mix of prints in the salon from the heart shaped fabrics to the various wallpapers paired with dark stained wood. The salon feels raw and edgy and glamorous at the same time.

The basin area is dark and moody which highlights the salon's colour work hanging on the walls. O&M hair products are used which are ammonia-free and gentle on the hair and environment. AND they smell like candy.

Overall I felt relaxed, comfortable and I had fun. I'm already thinking about my next colour. Blue tips, perhaps? What do you think? Have you ever gone pink?

To the team at Stevie English - thank you.

Stevie English Hair

153 Glebe Point Road, Glebe 2037

(02) 9423 7033

www.stevieenglish.com.au

Three years + 1 month

2011-10-13T21:16:00.008+11:00

Three. Blogging for three years? Wow.

One thing I have discovered during this time of writing is just how much of a passion this is and how lucky I am to be surrounded by so much inspiration. 2011 was a tricky year for me as it hasn't been easy juggling single motherhood, work, school, writing commitments and other projects but I've enjoyed it all.

During this last year:

I held the first charity tea party at my home with friends and it is becoming an annual event now
I started writing for Lustable
I dressed up the study
I hung artwork on the walls here, here, and here and with more on the way and I painted the kitchen door
Robbie grew out of his cot and I shared with you the updates to him room
My home was featured in adore home magazine, I was mentioned in home & decor magazine, asked to contribute for a beautiful book called Decorate, and ish and chi was even reviewed on the radio!
I bought new dining chairs, kitchen stools, an ottoman coffee table and a new Lazybones quilt. LOVE.

And I still have lots more I want to do around the home. One day soon I hope to tackle the bathroom, the laundry (again) and I'm dreaming of an outdoor deck. I'll keep sharing my progress. If there is anything you would like to see more of on ish and chi, feel free to write to me in the comments below.

As always, thank you for your support this last year, your kind words and for being awesome!

A Dulux Colour Consultation + Giveaway!

2011-10-11T21:27:00.010+11:00

{Sponsored by Nuffnang}

Paint colours can be one of the most difficult choices to make when renovating a home I have found. Take the colour white for example – there is a myriad of choices and it can get very confusing. Dulux offer a colour consultation service where a professional will come to your home to advise you on the best colours to use. I was lucky to have been offered a consultation just recently and if you continue reading, you can enter for your chance to win one!

The consultation took approximately 1 hour and I met with Odette who arrived carrying colour charts galore. You may know by now how much I love looking at colours so I found it hard to keep my paws off her charts.

I gave Odette a tour of my house and briefly explained the function of each room and what I was hoping to achieve in terms of design and colour. Currently all walls are painting in Dulux China White (1/4 strength) and the trims in Dulux Antique White. My house has a lot of natural light, particularly in the living and dining area and Odette felt keeping the colour scheme light was the way to go. She began by narrowing down the choices for the main walls throughout the house by pinning a selection onto the kitchen cabinets and editing down from there. The winning colour was Hog Bristle (1/2 strength) which incidentally was Dulux’s most popular colour in 2011 because of the versatility of the colour.

For the hallway, Odette suggested a feature wall in Dulux Western Myall, a dark grey colour which is absolutely beautiful and will create depth to the space. I have wanted to create a feature of this wall and the grey colour will work well with the mirrored table and vases.

For the master bedroom, Odette suggested Dulux Russian Toffee, a deeper shade than Hog Bristle to make the room feel cosier. The room has morning sun and I find it can be rather bright in the morning and so a deeper shade makes sense to use here. It matches beautifully with my bed and the framed wallpaper.

Robert’s bedroom has an existing circus wallpaper feature wall and Odette suggested painting the remaining walls in a pale blue shade. The colour suggested is so sweet! We moved the colour sample around the room and it worked with all of his existing furniture and the colours of the large David Bromley print in his room.

Next up was the studio. Currently there is a leftover exterior paint slapped on the walls. Odette suggested a deeper shade, Dulux Rich Mocha, for the main wall where I have hung framed wallpaper and prints and a lighter shade, Dulux Russian Toffee for the remaining walls.

Do you remember the stairway that I have been stuck trying to decide on a colour to paint? Odette helped me here too. She suggested the same colour as the hallway feature wall, Dulux Western Myall for the left and far wall and Dulux Hog Bristle (1/2 strength) for the right wall. Odette advised that painting only two of the walls in the darker grey shade will not darken the space overall and will allow light to bounce around the walls.

Odette completed the consultation by writing down each colour choice complete with diagrams on a specification sheet for me to keep. She also left me with colour chip samples to refer to. Overall I am very happy with the service provided and finally feel confident in the colour choices for my home, in particular the stairway, master bedroom and hallways which have haunted me for a long time! I may hold off changing the main wall colour throughout the house for now but I know what to choose when the house needs repainting in the future. The service is recommended if you are having difficulties too choosing colours for your home.

And I have something exciting to share with you! Dulux have kindly offered one ish and chi reader with the change to win a Dulux colour consultation. All you have to do is answer the question in this question in the comments field:

“What Dulux colour would your choose to repaint one of your rooms and why?”

Entries close next Wednesday 19 October 2011 and only one entry per person please. Good luck!

PS. Please see terms and conditions of competition here.

AND THE WINNER IS.....

KL! Congratulations!

(Unfortunately I didn't hear from the previous winner and so I've redrawn the prize)

Painting the entrance wall

2011-10-10T08:39:00.005+11:00

I accidentally broke the small white vase but I still like it and now I call it 'art'.

That's my cat, Jessie!

I should have been working on assignments but instead I was motivated to paint the entrance wall in a deep grey blue colour - Dulux Western Myall. Being such a dark colour two coats was required however I can still see a couple of tiny spots where paint was missed. I might have to touch these up.

Did you get up to any painting or DIY over the weekend?

Fashionably Late Friday: The colour of fairy floss

2011-10-09T12:22:00.005+11:00

I'll explain more soon. It's love.

Adore Home 1st Birthday Party

2011-10-08T12:00:00.006+11:00

The new issue of Adore Home is out now and it is a New York themed. I have said this previously but I don't mind saying it again - it is so wonderful that Australia has such a beautiful online magazine and editorial director Loni Parker and her team have done a wonderful job.

I was lucky to meet Loni recently at the Adore Home 1st birthday party held at Magnolia Interiors and she kindly shared some photos with me of the evening. There were drinks and sweet treats and I also met Emma from Nest Designs and Oliver from Sabi Style. Lots of fun!

Let me know what you think of the current issue of the magazine. The elegant striped Manhattan office space of Cameo Public Relations is one of my personal favourite features of the issue.

(Birthday party photos by Life In Bloom Photography)

Visiting Black & Spiro

2011-10-05T23:55:00.004+11:00

One of the main reasons I flew to Brisbane last week is for Adore Home's first birthday party bash. It was a lot of fun! The other reason was to visit a store I have long admired from afar - Black & Spiro.

The walk down Brunswick Street took me a good 25 minutes or so but it was worth it to see this store in person and meet the lovely Anna Spiro who is an absolute sweetheart!

Anna kindly let me take photos of her store but unfortunately I lost the photos so these are the few I had taken on my iPhone. Such a shame.

Anna shared with me that her upcoming summer vignette due to be posted on her website in November will be slightly different to the previous vignettes. It will be photographed outdoors and will involve fashion models. Can't wait to see!

More breeze blocks

2011-10-04T08:31:00.005+11:00

I am still editing the photos I took on my iPhone from my little trip to Brisbane last week. Looking forward to sharing with you.

In the meantime, while researching Queensland architecture I came across Building the Ville - a blog of architecture in Townsville, Queensland. My favourite house is this one pictured.

I STILL love breeze blocks. Do you?

(Image credit Building the Ville)

Escape to Brisbane

2011-09-30T20:54:00.003+10:00

I took a short trip to Brisbane this week and managed to see a whole lot while there. I'm back in Sydney now and as I was settling down tonight to review the photos I took from the trip I realised my memory card won't read. Hopefully I can recover the photos because I have a lot I would like to share with you!

In the meantime I may have to rely on the photos I took on my phone. Hope you've been well.

Photo taken in Brisbane at Kerbside. LOVE the worn floor.

A print. A painting.

2011-09-28T07:22:00.004+10:00

It takes me an awfully long time to frame prints and paintings I purchase but I popped these two into the framers over the weekend.

For the print, the frame will be just like the Macaw print by Sharon Montrose in my living room.

The painting which I had commissioned by artist Michelle Armas (do have a look at her work, she's fabulous!) will be stretched and framed just like my aboriginal paintings.

I hope I run out of wall space soon because I'm currently scouring the work of Mark Mawson and Chuck Bradley ever since I saw them at the Showcase Gallery exhibition launch. The gallery has an online website now!

Snap happy

2011-09-27T08:23:00.004+10:00

I'm still snapping away at random things I come across and sharing them on instagram. My username is ishandchi if you would like to join me there. Lately I have been obsessed with patterns I have come across in restaurants and bars as well as chairs. Oh, how I love chairs!

Here are a few images I have collected as well as some other random snaps that make me smile.

Fashion Friday: Last minute

2011-09-23T22:11:00.005+10:00

It is not often that I go shopping in stores these days. I love the ease of online shopping, taking my time to decide, clicking a few buttons and then waiting like a little girl at Christmas time for the ~~gift~~ package to arrive.

I bought this dress, which you've already seen, from a store in Coogee over the weekend. I was at the beach to relax but managed to spill coffee on myself so I went hunting for a last minute outfit before heading to a friend's party and this is what I found.

It's the weekend again! I'm going salsa dancing with a friend this weekend. I haven't danced in a while so I'm hoping I can still move this body. Hopefully the weather holds up on Sunday because I would love to dip my toes into the water at the beach. Bring on summer!

Enjoy your weekend.

Colour blocking in architecture

2011-09-21T14:41:00.007+10:00

Once upon a time, I admit, I muttered the words: Architecture. I just can't get myself interested in it?!

And now? Obsessed.

The latest building I have fallen for is this one designed by Emmanuelle Moureaux, Tokyo based French architect and designer, and it takes the idea of colour blocking to new heights (literally).

Each of the planes of this credit union bank are in saturated colours with the top most layers in blue shades. I imagine if you were to stand below this building and look up the top layers would blend into the sky. I love design details such as these.

Images via design boom

Assignment is done

2011-09-19T20:20:00.004+10:00

My assignment is done! And this is how happy I am.

(I'm a dag I know)

I am still learning how to use the 3D modelling tools to render my perspectives but I'm slowly getting the hang of it. The assignment brief was to design an apartment for a celebrity and I chose Perth based model Tiah Eckhardt.

The living room was inspired by one of her modelling shots - gold and purple glamour. The shallow pool has stepping blocks that glow and that lead into a balcony area. The glass windows double as a projector screen in the evening. Lots of fun and still lots more to learn.

Fashion Friday: Waist deep

2011-09-16T15:46:00.007+10:00

I was in the mood today to go CRAZY and post today's Fashion Friday from another part of the house. Wild. I know.

This is my loungey outfit for today but I stacked on the heels for the photos. I like the look of the loose casual top with the fitted electric blue mini. It's warming up here in Sydney!

See the small gold painting on the window sill? That's Robbie's masterpiece proudly displayed. He moves it around the house trying different spots. He'll position it, stand a few feet back, put his hand on his chin and contemplate whether it works with the space before deciding whether to let it rest there for a while. He may have picked that up from someone.

I'm waist deep in an assignment at the moment. I'll be back next week but if you don't hear from me please send the rescue team because I may have drowned.

Have a beautiful weekend and if I haven't told you lately, here's a reminder...

(Top images: ish and chi, Bottom image: amyalishaw. Card can be purchased here: www.etsy.com/shop/amyawalters.)

Layering patterns

2011-09-14T22:08:00.006+10:00

If I don't use this wallpaper somewhere, be it in my home or a project, I think I might burst!

I do like the way the sample looks here, layered underneath the yellow wallpaper I framed for the bedroom.

Five colour ideas for your home

2011-09-13T08:38:00.003+10:00

Did you like my crazy colour combo for last week's Fashion Friday? If so, you may like these bright colour ideas to try at home. For most of these ideas all you need is paint, courage and a bit of patience!

IDEA 1: I have always loved coloured front doors but how about coloured garage doors? This pinwheel design is fabulous and eye catching. Imagine being able to say to new visitors to your home "just look for the house on the street with the massive pinwheel out the front".

IDEA 2: Colour furniture with vertical rainbow stripes like this Zoe Murphy chest of drawers. You can try strips of coloured tape for a non permanent option, assuming you aren't like me and have the patience to rip off the tape carefully afterwards.

IDEA 3: Paint stripes on the floor (if you are brave!) like this floor spotted in a Kate Spade store in Palm Springs. Or rather than paint the whole floor try painting a faux rug.

IDEA 4: If you are like me you have probably collected lots of little paint sample pots over time. Pull them out and paint boxes on a wall (or fabric) to create a focal point. Be creative and give the colours your own unique names - pollen yellow, blue beard, orangina orange? I'm sure you'll think of something better!

IDEA 5: Last idea, and my personal favourite, paint chips arranged within a frame to create a stunning feature in this dining space. A great alternative for artwork.

Images via Nicole Balch's pinterest page (she pins the best stuff!) and via Sally TV

Fashionably Late Friday: Colour blocking

2011-09-10T16:43:00.006+10:00

Have you tried this trend - colour blocking? I'm seeing it more and more lately. Loud and bright solid colours combined to create a look that grabs attention. I'm not one to shy away from colour regardless, trend or otherwise, so I'm welcoming this look with open arms.

How about you?

Snap happy

2011-09-06T06:45:00.005+10:00

I probably should have locked myself indoors to work on an assignment due frighteningly soon but the sun was out this weekend. Here are some photos I took on my adventures under the guise of 'colour, styling and interior inspiration' for future projects. Yep, that makes me feel a bit better.

How was your weekend?

Photos taken at The Boathouse, Palm Beach - White Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale - Watsons Bay

Fashion Friday: The pink sofa + springtime flowers

2011-09-02T14:59:00.004+10:00

Apologies for my absence. I have been nursing a sick little boy this week but he is on the mend and his usual cheeky self again.

Meanwhile the sofa arrived and I am still decorating the perfect spot for it. I rather like the way it looks under this painting but it is at the entrance to my home and not a suitable spot. I am thinking of placing it in my bedroom with a cluster of antique mirrors hanging above it. That would be dreamy.

Have a beautiful weekend and if you are on my side of the world - welcome to spring!

Fashionably Late Friday: A long weekend with friends

2011-08-28T19:45:00.006+10:00

There is not much I love more than catching up with my friends and we had a great excuse to do so this weekend to raise money for the Kids Helpline by holding a tea party. I will show you photos soon.

The party was held in honour of Ava (read about Ava and the vision for the party). In her mother's words:

Ava's tea party is about taking time. Making time. Moments put aside to love and laugh with those you adore.

And that's what I did.

New friends. Old friends. Friends who have been and continue to be a special part of my life. People I'm hoping will become a special part. It's a nice feeling to stop and take the time to appreciate the people you adore.

There was a bit of sun today and I dared to venture outdoors bare-legged. The skirt falls below the knee but I bunched it up for a casual weekend feel. I have worn the top before in this previous post. I hope this beautiful weather holds up!

A place to read a good book

2011-08-24T07:40:00.005+10:00

Last summer I purchased a pod chair with the intention of sitting in it forever and ever. It never quite got the use I wanted it to because it took me a while to assemble it. Incidentally, I assembled it myself and moved it up a few stairs to its current position in the garden. Not recommended! Two people are definitely needed to carry it.

I'm having a tea party this weekend with my girlfriends and this little spot will provide another place for guests to sit and relax with a cup of tea and cake. One project I would like to tackle soon is the garden. When the weather warms up again I'll be out there with my gardening gloves on.

1960s sofa

2011-08-23T07:15:00.005+10:00

I really like 1950s and 1960s style furniture and interiors at the moment which is why it was difficult to resist this 1960s sofa when it popped up on eBay.

If I can't get it to work in the living room it will probably end up in the study. The sofa arrives on Friday!

(Image eBay seller)

Rose Seidler Fifties Fair

2011-08-22T07:02:00.005+10:00

What a great day! The crowds gathered on Sunday at the Rose Seidler House for the fair and it felt as though we had stepped back in time. The men and women were dressed beautifully, there were people groovin' and jivin' and it was so much fun.

There were markets selling 50s goods, everything from gloves, dresses, pillbox hats to furniture and artwork. There were hot dogs, fairy floss, hula hoop lessons (for the big kids too), vintage cars, quiffs and curls.

I met the beautiful Candice DeVille who judged the Best Dressed competition and gave fashion lessons. Robbie stole a million hearts and my heart grew even more for him.

Hope your weekend was fabulous!

Fashionably Late Friday: A party

2011-08-20T11:18:00.005+10:00

Apologies for being late again with my Fashion Friday posts but I did have a reason this time. I headed off to my brother's 21st birthday party after work. We had such a great time! Can't quite believe he is 21. This is what I wore to the party.

This weekend is going to be so much fun, starting with Saturday In Design, a catch-up with friends in the evening and the Rose Seidler House Fifties Fair on Sunday.

See you next week. Have a lovely weekend!

Overdosing on wallpaper

2011-08-18T08:10:00.002+10:00

How much is too much?

I have run the idea of papering the wall at the entrance of my home by a few people and some people are absolutely for it, others say "won't there be too much wallpaper in your home?". Never. Surely?

There is currently wallpaper in Robert's bedroom, in the study, framed in the bedroom and backing the kitchen display cabinet.

In the above image, to the left is the main bedroom. Straight ahead is the study. The darker room is Robert's bedroom and I am thinking of papering the wall that the console table is leaning against. It faces the front entrance.

My latest love? Japanese bamboo.

I think it will play off the gold detail in the wallpaper in the study beautifully and make quite an impact. Tempting!

(Top image: Kristin Perers, Wallpaper: Signature Prints)

New bicycle

2011-08-15T11:59:00.005+10:00

Hello! Did you have a nice weekend? I was able to see all the events I wanted to see as well as the friends I planned to spend time with.

I also managed to sneak in some cycling! My bicycle arrived from Papillionaire earlier in the week but I must have had a brain freeze because I couldn't for the life of me work out how to assemble. So I reached out for help and voila! A brand new bicycle ready for the road. Yes!

Fashion Friday: Smile hard

2011-08-12T09:24:00.008+10:00

I was on the hunt recently for an outfit to wear and came across this striped dress. There is a certain elegance to shape of the dress that I adore.

It's Friday! I'm looking forward to this weekend. The fun starts tonight with a film called Design in Motion that I am catching on a rooftop in Surry Hills as part of Sydney Design. Tomorrow I will be visiting the 52 Suburbs exhibit (have you seen it?) and catching up with my dear friends over the weekend.

I hope to sneak in some time to relax as well and maybe even do some homework. Hmm, maybe. I feel as though I am in such a good place right now where all the pieces just seem to fall together. It is such a nice feeling that makes me smile so hard.

Have a beautiful weekend and hope you are smiling hard too.

Uh oh.

2011-08-11T11:22:00.004+10:00

Sydney Design: ReForm - turning old objects into something new

2011-08-10T07:26:00.001+10:00

This year's Sydney Design festival theme is "is old new again?". I visited an exhibition over the weekend called ReForm which explored this theme. It was held in a quiet laneway by thethefortynine team who scoured roadsides for old finds that they could turn into something new.

Fit new knobs on a chest of drawers, turn a helmet into a pot or a stool into a lamp - maybe there is an idea you can borrow from this collection to try yourself?

Still to decide on...

2011-08-09T01:15:00.006+10:00

A bed head for Robbie's bed. I like these from BedNest and you can order online or have one custom made. Or perhaps the bed doesn't need a bed head at all?

A chest of drawers for the bedroom - this mother of pearl inlay one or perhaps in a colour such as blue or pink! I will also get rid of the art on the right corner of the room which was placed there temporarily.

Rose Seidler House (including the rooms you don't always see)

2011-08-08T07:50:00.002+10:00

Last week I listened to an inspiring talk on the importance of preserving mid-century modern architecture. The talk was focused on the magnificent properties in LA, Palm Springs and Chicago and I was left craving a visit to these homes. Seeing as I wouldn't be able to get myself over to see those homes anytime soon I decided this weekend to pay a visit to Sydney's own beautiful piece of Australian mid-century architecture - the Rose Seidler House.

For anyone who may not be familiar with the Rose Seidler House it was designed by architect Harry Seidler for his mother Rose and father Max from 1948 - 50. His parents lived in the home until 1967 and it is now the property of the Historic Houses Trust of New South Wales (HHT).

After taking our shoes off, we walked up the stairs and were greeted by volunteer Andrew who asked us to make ourselves at home. The open plan space of the living and dining has such a wonderful feel to it. From every angle there is a view and a connection with the outdoors.

Everything in this home is original including the furniture which is placed as it was when Rose and Max lived here. I wanted to also explore areas of the house that you don't always see photographed, such as the bathrooms.

We also discovered this old ironing board that folds out from the wall and which you can see has been well used.

If you are planning a visit to the Rose Seidler House there is a Fifties Fair being held on the 21 August which will be a fun time to go. Look out for me in my finest fifties frock.

Oh, and I have to ask - could you live here?

(See the entire collection of photos on the ish and chi facebook page.)

Sydney Design: WORKSHOPPED 11

2011-08-06T08:35:00.001+10:00

Replica Wassily chair, found in the street, re-purposed - Henry Wilson

This week I visited the WORKSHOPPED exhibition and entered furniture heaven. The first chair shown here (above) would have to be my absolute favourite with its tentacle blue legs and tan leather seat. It is a replica Wassily chair that was found and re-purposed with terrific results.

Simple bedside tables made from sustainable Bamboo Plywood and Marmoleum - Scott Clements

The Matador Chair inspired by the chaos of the bullfights in Spain and designed to be flat packed and assembled by the user - Nicholas Kelly

The Ticket Chair inspired by the story Grant Featherston playing with a tram ticket. He folded and twisted the flat piece of paper into the form of a chair - Guy Paramore

Star Table - Nick Randall

The SIN chair made from recycled PET plastic layers retained by bespoke brass pins - David Caon

C10 chair assembled with soft nylon thread that creates tension and is surprisingly sturdy - Jennifer Edmunds

The Scalloped Seat has been ergonomically designed for comfort in a relaxed seating position - Nita Robson

Each year, WORKSHOPPED presents new Australian designs and it has become an opportunity for young designers to launch their products into the commercial market. Who knows, maybe we will be seeing more from these designers in the future?

If you are in Sydney, the exhibition runs until August 13 at 8 Hill Street, Surry Hills.

Fashion Friday: Why I avoid florist shops

2011-08-05T19:37:00.005+10:00

I can never walk into a flower shop and leave empty handed especially stores with massive displays such as this one in Surry Hills. This is flower heaven.

This week has been a super busy one. I have attended lots of events as part of Sydney Design and I am so inspired, energised and feeling good!

PS. If anyone can identify these flowers I will be forever grateful. A man stopped me on the street to tell me about their origin but this old brain didn't retain the name of the flower unfortunately.

Dress: Shona Joy

Cardi: A little store in Bondi

Handbag and sunglasses: Sportsgirl

Farnsworth House: Could you live here?

2011-08-02T21:51:00.007+10:00

Shall we take a little step back in time? It is the year 1951 and you are the owner of the newly built Farnsworth House in Illinois designed and constructed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Lucky you!

The home is now considered an icon of modernist style but back then it was a significant house project for the architect designed as a single level raised dwelling with heavy use of glass all the way around the structure.

Could you live here?

This house was the basis of a discussion tonight and the answers to the above question varied. There is no denying the house is aesthetically beautiful but what was interesting to learn was the actual owners experience of living in this house:

The truth is that in this house with its four walls of glass I feel like a prowling animal, always on the alert. I am always restless. Even in the evening. I feel like a sentinel on guard day and night. I can rarely stretch out and relax…What else? I don’t keep garbage under my sink. Do you know why? Because you can see the whole “kitchen” from the road on the way in here and the can would spoil the appearance of the whole house. So I hide it in the closet further down from the sink. Mies talks about “free space”: but his space is very fixed. I can’t even put a clothes hanger in my house without considering how it affects everything from outside. Any arrangement of furniture becomes a major problem, because the house is transparent, like an X-ray.

I would still live here without hesitation. Could you? Or would you feel restrained by the design of this home and the limited privacy provided? I would love to hear your thoughts.

(Photography by Krista Jahnke, quote from House Beautiful)

Sydney Design: Designer in flux

2011-08-02T07:00:00.003+10:00

Sydney Design is on and there are numerous events taking place around town at the moment. Yesterday I visited the Australian Museum to listen to a talk by designer Andrew Ashton of a small design studio in Melbourne called Studio Pip and Co that focuses on print, exhibition, branding, corporate communication and digital design.

Andrew talked about how the business was born, his move to Melbourne, his inspiration and various projects. He also raised a couple of interesting points:

1. D.I.Y (Design It Yourself)

The focus of the talk was on graphic design, however the DIY trend can be seen in other design disciplines with clients taking the 'lead' in design decisions or wanting to do it themselves. Andrew mentioned that designers can either fight it or get involved in it, for example, by offering DIY solutions or options that clients that they can interact with so that they are putting the final designs together themselves. He feels DIY challenges the design approach.

2. Awkward not perfect

Andrew talked about his start in the graphic design industry creating designs on a drawing board and then his move to using computer technology which allows for 'perfect' designs. However he feels there is still something beautiful about the awkward or the not so perfect of hand drawn or hand made designs.

And the final message:

If you are in Sydney at the moment check out some of the other Sydney Design events here.