natural modern interiors

Traditional Housing & Longhouses :: Sabah & Brunei, Borneo

2012-02-17T21:55:00.000+10:00

It's been a busy month with travelling around Sabah, Borneo then a quick trip to the UK for my sister-in-law's wedding - and now I am on a week stopover in Dubai before continuing on our travels to the Philippines.

Travelling around Borneo was great fun and interesting to see other house styles in this tropical climate. There is a actually bit of a mix between timber stilt housing (similar to the Australian Queenslanders), new terraced and townhouse developments and traditional and new community 'Longhouses'.

A traditional 'Longhouse' literally means a large wooden communal structure, raised on stilts (in the case of the modern ones there is parking beneath) and the home and communal dwelling to one indigenous community or extended family.

In Northern Sabah there still remains the traditional timber Longhouses, this one belongs to the Rungus community and was originally 90 doors long with each dwelling being 3 meters in width, making a 270m longhouse!

A traditional timber longhouse

The timber and bamboo construction allows for shade all day long in the private family rooms and the communal covered area.

Massive open plan communal living areas with open wall construction to allow for cooler air flow

It is designed with slanted side walls to allow the occupants to sit comfortably without the need for modern furniture! This is quite important as the Rungus women are renown for their skills as bead weavers and sit with their legs stretched out in order to produce their handicrafts.

Slated walls for leaning against, sleeping areas and all with minimal furniture

I was also invited to a more modern Longhouse in Brunei which was similar in layout but constructed in modern materials and with car parking spaces below.

Some communal furniture

Room below for car parking

Nowadays communities favour the modern town housing developments which are still similar in layout to the traditional longhouse community, thus still allowing for extended family living.

I wonder how we would all fair if we all lived so close to our extended families?

Have fun.

Fabrics of India :: Indian Sari Fabric

2012-02-01T01:46:00.003+10:00

On my last few days in India I had the pleasure of shopping for silk sari material to send back to Australia.

Inspired by this wall hanging from a restaurant called Dal Roti in Fort Kochi that had been created from hand loomed cotton sari material, I was looking to source some fabric that can be used to make artwork for a rather large white wall I have at home.

Artwork from Dal Roti (Left Image)

Sari material would be perfect for the job as each piece is about 5 metres in length and can come with different patterns printed within the one piece. Each piece of the artwork can then be created from different parts of the same fabric used to make up a complete sari.

Shopping for the sari material is quite an experience! First you are asked what price range you want to choose from and are then seated at the appropriate place along a long wide table that weaves it way around the shop in front of the hundreds of shelves full of amazing material. After explaining the colours and styles you are looking for the sales staff bring you a range of 5m long folded silk saris to choose between. As they extravagantly unfurl each sari it soon becomes clear why you need such a long table to see the complete design!

Shopping and fabric overload!

In my case I was looking for fabric that I can hang on the wall and had to ask the staff to hold these impressive 5m long pieces of fabric high up so that I could see what it would look like. This selection alone needed three people to hold it up!

After what seemed like many hours I had to rationalise my selection to just a few saris and walk away from the many beautiful designs that remained.

My final fabric selections

The fabrics have now been sent back home and I just cannot wait to get back in May to take another peak and start transforming them into artwork.

Have fun.

Modern Art Deco :: Trinity, Malabar house, Fort Cochin, Kerala

2012-01-23T01:13:00.002+10:00

This beautiful home dates back to 1740 and was the headquarters of the Dutch East India Company here in Kochi, Kerala.

What caught my eye with this lovely property was the architectural style, original reclaimed features and bold use of colour used to create these colonial styled villas built around private courtyards.

Each villa has it's own indoor-outdoor bathroom next to a courtyard with an outdoor shower that uses a large metal bowl set into pebbles for it's base.

There is also a vast range of eye-catching artwork and sculptures arranged around the house and a beautiful collection of Art Deco furniture interspersed with modern furniture.

The terracotta ceiling tiles

Eye-catching artwork and sculptures

The entrance and building style

With this style of modern architecture along with the use of original features like the original terracotta tiles within the vaulted ceilings, there is a strong sense of history and character that you would struggle to achieve with a regular plasterboard ceiling and rendered walls!

Have fun.

Handbuilt Eco Cottages :: The Bohemian Masala, Varkala, India

2012-01-18T00:55:00.000+10:00

A few weeks back I stumbled across The Bohemian Masala, a slightly different approach to an eco resort tucked away behind the main tourist strip in Varkala, Kerala.

The resort contained a number of curious, indigenous hand built mud eco cottages.

Each cottage has been designed on plan for maximum airflow and constructed with handmade mud bricks. The walls were then plastered using a traditional method of applying clay rich mud and cow dung and then painted with natural pigments such as red brick dust, flowers and herbs.

The pigment for the black floors is carbon from burnt coconut husks that has been given a top coat of wax to seal the floors. The thick brick walls, use of small windows and traditional plaster create a surprisingly cool room.

Also, a mix of secondhand ceramic tiles and palm leaves have been used to construct the roofs. All the timber used is sourced from ex plantation stock coconut trees.

For the interiors all the furniture is handmade with local ex plantation stock timber from a mixture of coconut and jack fruit trees.

All the fabrics for the ceilings, curtains and wall coverings have been made from secondhand sari material.

What a great way to use up all those old sari's.

Have fun.

Chic Colonial Indian Design style :: The Raheem Residency, Kerala, India

2012-01-05T15:49:00.000+10:00

This beautiful heritage residence caught my eye last year when I was looking for interesting places to stay in Kerala over the Christmas and New Year period.

You really feel that you are in your own private palace!

Originally built by an Englishman in 1868, this beautiful house was purchased in the 19th century by Mr Raheem who moved his family from the Indian state of Gujarat to the thriving port town of Alleppey.

In 2003 the home was purchased by it's current owners who undertook the process of converting the run down home into a chic boutique hotel whilst retaining and restoring its original classical colonial Indian style. The new hotel was re-named the Raheem Residency.

With ornate antique timber furniture and interesting objet d'art scattered around, this boutique home has an amazing mix of traditional Indian colonial elegance and a quirky chic style set in a lovely heritage residence.

Such amazing carved timber detailing and unusual pieces of artwork...

Now this is what you call a four poster bed Indian style!
Images courtesy of The Raheem Residency

Now this is truly a chic colonial heritage hotel and I am so glad I had the opportunity to visit such an amazing place.

Happy New Year.

Coastal Decoration Indian Style :: Goa, India

2011-12-20T22:56:00.000+10:00

I am always drawn to the colour and texture when I walk along a beach and it's a pleasant surprise to find so much inspiration on Indian beaches...

These beach huts at Cozy Nook use decorative timber screens as the downstairs entrance wall and look stunning against a the natural bamboo backdrop.

In contrast these images are of fishing nets, timber panelling, ceramic pots, fabrics and other objects that have now found a new uses.

Next stop the beaches of Kerala.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Beach Huts :: Ordo Sounsar, Palolem Beach, Goa, India

2011-12-17T22:02:00.001+10:00

I normally like my accommodation to be more permanent in construction but while in Southern Goa, I had the pleasure of staying in an amazing quiet bamboo hut resort called Ordo Sounsar on Palolem beach.

After crossing an interesting little bamboo and timber draw-bridge you find this resort tucked away down the quieter northern end of the beach.

The interesting thing about this resort is that all these beach huts are constructed new each season by the resort staff from locally sourced sustainable materials.

In fact each resort in Palolem is required by the state government to keep records showing where they obtained the materials as taking timber etc from the local forests is forbidden. Most of the materials therefore comes from local mills which certify the material is from either trees which fall naturally during the monsoon season or from plantation stock.

Also, where possible any equipment and materials that will survive the monsoon are stored on the property for next season.

Each hut comes with an outdoor shower and as the resort is surrounded by forest you can also share your outdoor shower with it's local resident monkeys hanging around high up in the trees!

So when it comes to decorating the resort the use of only local materials make for interesting natural design elements; bamboo weave is used to make vessels for lamp shades; timber off cuts are used for decks, bridges and furniture; rope and coir are used for ceiling features and balustrades; palm leaves are used for roofing; wicker and cane are used to weave lanterns and draped fabrics are used to clad ceilings.

A fantastic use of natural and local materials and an amazing place to stay! Also a huge thanks to Sera, LD, Shelly and the team for being great hosts :)

Have fun.

Coastal Colours & Textures :: Goa, India

2011-12-10T01:42:00.000+10:00

I have been taking some much needed rest in the very nice beach area of Palolem in Southern Goa.

I couldn't help but notice the beautiful colours of the beach huts and boats as well as the use of local textiles and fabrics.

Absolutely stunning and inspirational. It is a delight to see this bold use of contrasting colours against the backdrop of sand and sea!

Have fun.

Coastal Christmas Decorating Ideas

2011-12-08T21:31:00.001+10:00

The last few years I have found myself by the beach for Christmas. This year I will be in Southern India and without access to my Christmas decoration box which is currently in storage back home in Brisbane.

As I am currently living out of a rucksack I will have to search the beaches for this years driftwood and shell based decorations! Here's a few ideas for now until I find mine over the next few weeks...

For more driftwood Christmas tree ideas click here.

Have fun & have a great holiday.

Contemporary interior design in Kathmandu :: Pipalbot

2011-11-30T23:41:00.000+10:00

Pipalbot showroom in Kathmandu, Nepal

On the last few days of my visit to Kathmandu I stumbled across a Baber Mahal Revisited which is an new redevelopment of a series of old Rana buildings and courtyards converted into craftsman based retail showrooms and a couple of amazing restaurants.

Hidden amongst these courtyards I was excited to find the interior design showroom and lifestyle store called Pipalbot, so I had to pop in...

Pipalbot is a joint venture between Tim Linkins (an Australian-born architectural photographer and designer) and partner Diki Ongomo (who is based in Kathmandu).

Hand-made silk rugs

Their designs are created in the Kathmandu Studio by a network of local Nepalese craftsmen, dyers and weavers creating Tibetan wool and silk rugs. There is also other objects of art created from locally sourced materials like cane, ceramic, wool and cashmere.

This was a pure delight to find such great modern designs using local craftsmen and artisans all here in Kathmandu.

Have fun.

Lisa

Village Life & Trekking in the Annapurna Region

2011-11-26T18:42:00.000+10:00

Beautiful brass flower pots at doorways.

I am now finished trekking in Nepal and so will soon be flying to Mumbai, India.

It's been an interesting few weeks trekking through these extremely remote villages high up in the Himalayas and witnessing first hand how sustainably local people live.

In years past some of these villages were on well established trading routes with China and Tibet. Nowadays a lot of their income comes from trekkers like me staying in local tea house style accommodation whilst trekking from village to village.

Most of these lodges spend the trekking season attending to guests but when the season finishes they turn their attentions to growing produce for the next season either locally or lower down in the foothills.

Hot water for trekkers is mainly solar powered with the odd gas system in the more luxurious lodges. However the locals use the local river or village water supply to wash everything, including themselves… Bear in mind this local water supply is extremely cold. In a few of the village you can also find hot springs which the locals take advantage of... Who can blame them!

The local village water supply and washing day!

Food is either grown locally or carried in by porters, donkeys or depending where the village is by aircraft. Needless to say in this cold and harsh climate food variety is limited and if it can be stored it will be, normally in a dry shed at the back of the property or hung out in the sun.

When it comes to waste there is still a massive issue with disposing of it however I did notice some great examples of recycling waste with beer bottles being used as edges to flower beds and old food and paint tins being used as flower pots.

There is also no such thing as electric appliances! Dishes are washed in the local water supply and then left out in the sun to dry. Most stoves are still fuelled by wood which is a problem as it is leading to local deforestation but kerosene stoves are being promoted as a more sustainable alternative.

A typical, well ordered, lodge kitchen.

Blankets, rugs and woollen products are provided by the unlucky local Yaks. It is quite a weird experience to sit on a Yak skin!

A small retail display of local antiques and Yak products!

Even Monks have tea breaks! They also offered us a cuppa at 3900m above sea level!

Carved timber window and door frames.

Prayer wheels, stones carved with prayers and prayer flags.

This trek is a great experience and it is so nice to see that behind this basic and remote living style the villages still express individuality, creativity and take great pride with decorating their entrances, lodges, monasteries and messages to their Gods!

I am now off to the tiny laneways in Kathmandu to haggle for homewares items to send home.

Have fun.

Temples and Colour :: Kathmandu, Nepal

2011-11-03T21:02:00.000+10:00

It's been over 6 years since I was in Kathmandu last. Everything is still the same except for the abundance of free wi fi and travellers with an assortment of apple products to keep them entertained.

As technology moves forward in great strides I am sorry to say that infrastructure and building repairs and maintenance have not. It is quite sad to see such beautiful old crafted temples and building architecture covered in so much dust from the smog and some are literally crumbling away.

However, under a blanket of city dust there is still a rainbow of vibrant colours, fabrics and textures, beautiful timber carved windows and amazing architecture.

Coloured cotton fabric

Carnations everywhere

Temple architecture

One of the many things I remember from Nepal is their amazing carved timber windows

Some interesting forms of scaffolding and structural support!

Please bare with me as from tomorrow I will be trekking around the Annapurna Circuit and then the Sanctuary for 3 to 4 weeks and will be without any form communication until I return.

On this trek I will encounter remote villages and homes that are still without mains electricity or mains water. It will be interesting to see how these villages live without basic infrastructure that we all take for granted today.

Have fun.

Nepal :: Trekking the Annapurna Circuit

2011-10-28T09:52:00.000+10:00

My home is now packed away into storage and backpacks are now waiting their final pack. We leave on Monday and set off to Nepal via an interesting 10hr connection in Delhi airport!

The first part of our trip will be spending a few days in Kathmandu before hiking through the mountains and high villages of the Annapurna region.

I prefer walking into these remote regions as you see at first hand how the locals live and get by on very little infrastructure, food and electricity.

The Annapurna range that we will be hiking around

When I first trekked this route about 12 years ago there was hardly any hot water and what hot water was available was heated by wood fires (this alone reduced our consumption to a bare minimum).

Thanks to the recent introduction of solar panels a lot more hot water showers have popped up and are now available for us tourists.

However, I am sure the locals still use ice cold mountain water for washing!

The local village water supply, prayer wheels and the lower hills

Prayer flags and the type of remote villages we will be staying in as we trek

I shall post in Kathmandu and a few extra posts, but while I am trekking I will not be able to update until we finish our 3-4 week trek.

These high mountains have limited electricity or internet connections... and even if there was a bit of solar power available I am hiking with my backpack I really do not fancy the extra weight of my laptop!

Have fun.

Colours of Diwali : The Festival Of Lights

2011-10-14T14:39:00.000+10:00

Diwali is one of my favourite festivals.

In the past I have witnessed this in both Nepal and India but as I have not left yet I shall pop into Brisbane tonight to join the crowds, enjoy some fine Indian food and listen to some loud Bollywood style music!

This festival means the triumph of good over evil. For me I just love the amazing contrasting colours created by this festival, the oranges, the reds, the pinks and the warmth of candle light.

During this festival I have seen people hang lanterns and burn candles at their front doors, whilst most homes display Rangoli artwork at their entrances, garden areas and even on entire floors.

This intricate artwork and patterns can be made from petals, flowers, coloured sand, rice or chalk powder.

Here is some entrance artwork of Ganesh!

If you are interested at looking at how to decorate for Diwali check out this link for some great ideas.

Only a few weeks left till I am off to Nepal... Yippee...

Have fun.

Eco Retreat & Glamping Tents :: Sal Sails, Ningaloo Reef, WA

2011-10-07T09:27:00.000+10:00

Well the days are quickly ticking away until we go and there is still much preparation and research still to do...

However to get me into the beach vibe and as I still have not left sunny Australia today I tam traveling to a location that my husband has always wanted to go... Ningaloo Reef.

And what a better way to experience this beautiful National Park and beach environment than to stay in these eco retreats and glamping tents right on the beach at Sal Sails.

What's great about this retreat is that the whole experience is built around ecological principles to ensure that your stay generates minimal environmental impact and the only thing you leave behind is your footprint in the sand! For example...

Each wilderness tent is built on a raised deck to allow for coastal breezes to naturally cool the rooms.
The African Style tent colour allows the retreat to blend in naturally with the surrounding pristine environment.
All power is 100% solar.
All recycling and waste is returned to Exmouth recycle depot.

The en-suite room at the rear of the tent is open to the surrounding environment and fitted with a solar hot water, a hand pumped shower and a Nature Loo or composting toilet.

images from Sal Sails

All linen is supplied by Eco Down Under which is organic cotton and chemical free.
Sheets are a sand colour and are not bleached to maintain pure whiteness. Their composition means that they can be hung dry and eliminate the need for ironing!

Not bad for a luxury tent retreat!

Have fun.

Interior Design Inspiration Journey 2011-12

2011-09-30T15:59:00.000+10:00

The time has come for me to break some big news...

The last couple of weeks I have been finishing off our renovations, de-cluttering and tidying up my home (which I am so over!) all in preparation for renting out my house.

I am so excited to announce that my husband and I will be taking 6 months off in November to travel round Asia... yippee...

Apart for some R & R and climbing a few big mountains my blog will continue as I search for inspiration from:

unique homes & retreats
local quality furniture, fabrics and materials
and finally sourcing interior and furniture items for my own home :)

Who knows... I may even have enough photographic material to launch my first book :)

If you are interested in following my design journey feel free to subscribe to my blog (top right hand corner) and/or follow me or natural modern interiors on facebook.

Here is a list of countries I will be going in the form of mood boards...

Have fun.

Joglo Living :: Khayangan Estate, Bali

2011-09-19T10:32:00.000+10:00

I had the absolute pleasure last week to assist a lovely client with her furniture layouts for a traditional Joglo she is building in a beautiful tropical setting just inland from Noosa.

If you are wondering what a Joglo is? They are a type of traditional crafted timber house, mainly found in Bali and Java and built to be dismantled and moved easily.

I have attached a fine example of one, recommended by my client, with The Khayangan Estate in Bali. These particular Joglos were once the traditional home of Javanese aristocracy and have been saved from destruction and lovingly restored.

Fantastic indoor / outdoor views...

Note the use of high ceilings, low perimeter shading and no major internal walls allowing cool breezes to flow throughout.

images from The Khayangan Estate

The result seamlessly mixes traditional craftsmanship with antique pieces and contemporary furniture within a tropical backdrop.

Having travelled to some hot places I have nearly always been more comfortable with the heat with high ceilings, massive ceiling fans and shaded open areas rather than enclosed rooms with air conditioning units...

In the absence of having one of these Joglos shipped over from Bali for myself... I await with excitement to see my client's one finished in the not too distant future and the chance to visit The Khayangan Estate the next time I am in Bali.

Have fun.

Eco Home :: Rachel Bending, Byron Bay

2011-09-12T15:42:00.000+10:00

I have just spent the last week preparing my house ready to rent out.

To cheer myself up from the hours of sorting, de-cluttering and cleaning - which I am well over now! I am going to indulge in some window shopping for my dream home.

What a better place to start than with Rachel Bending's (founder of Bird Textile) eco home in my favorite location, Byron Bay.

This is a straw bale house with a difference... it's where sustainable and style come together in harmony. The house is solar-passive, solar-powered, re-uses grey water, has a compost toilet and is built from natural, sustainable and reclaimed materials including straw! Not that you can see a piece of straw from these photos... Just great style!

You can just see the dry stone wall behind the kitchen.

The claw-foot bathtub was a gift from a friends and the travertine floor was left over from another job.

Just amazing views!

This building ticks all the boxes on my shopping list; a sustainable building, made from natural materials, has an amazing outdoor bathroom, plenty of indoor outdoor living and fantastic views.

If you are inspired here is some building info:

1 Building: Natural Building Works

2 Joinery: Piers Martin Cabinets (02) 6685 9014

3 Composting Toilet: Clivus Multrum

4 Solar Panels: Nickel Renewable Energy

Have fun.

Hotel Omm :: Barcelona

2011-09-09T12:09:00.000+10:00

It's been a few years since I stayed here but if you are ever in Barcelona and fancy a contemporary city splurge this is your place.

Designed by architect Juli Capella and interior designers Sandra Tarruella and Isabel López, Hotel Omm is like your own personal cocktail and lounge bar. With it's clean lines, use of timber and warm contemporary colours mixed with a few eclectic pieces you really feel that plain old white walls are history!

Jacobsen "Egg" chair by the lounge and fireplace.

My favorite pieces are the real Jacobsen "Egg" chair by the lounge fireplace, the use of low ceilings to create intimate casual seating areas (which is opposite to most hotel foyers), the timber four poster timber bed and not to forget the chinese tea pots all reminds you that you are not in your usual hotel.

This fantastic four poster is one of my all time favorite bed designs!

Even if you are unable to stay it is still worth treating yourself to a cocktail and a much needed rest in the foyer lounge or splurging on the day spa.

Have fun.

Eclectic Bathroom Ideas :: Small Details

2011-09-05T09:34:00.000+10:00

It can be really be hard sometimes to give a new bathroom a sense of identity...

I have certainly found that a challenge with my own bathroom refurbishment - which is finally being priced at the moment... yippee!

When you are refurbishing a bathroom you will naturally wish to install new tap-wear, basins, bath or shower and then tile the floors and walls. In some cases this can leave you with a room that feels cold and lacks identity.

So here's a few small furniture and decoration details that I have left over from my own bathroom inspiration research that can easily be added to give character and warmth to a new bathroom.

Love the warm rug on the stone floor, the small pots and the off white colour palette!

Love the basin and the small timber stools!

Love the bathroom with a timber floor and the use of natural finishes...

Have fun.

Natural Modern Interiors 1st Birthday Today!

2011-09-01T13:11:00.003+10:00

It's natural modern interiors 1st birthday today... yippee. I cannot believe its now a year since I started my first post... A year has flown by.

I decided to start this blog as a way to inspire us all to think beyond mass consumerism and instead think more about recycling, up-cycling and using natural materials as a sustainable approach to renovation, decoration and design... sustainable solutions do not have to be expensive or look ugly!

Also without the support from my readers it would not happen... so a huge thanks to you all for a wonderful year and thanks for commenting, your words of support, following and for just liking my blog... :)

To mark this occasion I would like to round up the year with your top five most popular posts.

Ideas for reusing and recycling glass bottles and jars

Bathroom lighting ideas :: Moroccan and Turkish lamps

Kitchen design ideas :: Recycled & second-hand kitchens

Garden Pods, Hanging Playrooms, Artificial Grass :: Grand Designs Live 2011, London

Small bathroom design ideas :: Mirrors

Have a great weekend.

Latest Interior Design by ifdesign :: The New Wardrobe, Brisbane

2011-08-24T19:14:00.001+10:00

I am so excited to tell you that one of our latest projects, a new women' s fashion store called The New Wardrobe, opens this Friday here in Oxford Street, Bulimba.

I was approached by the owners Lisa Norman & Maree Diamond to come up with an interior concept using natural colours and materials that reflects the feel of a walk-in wardrobe.

An early design style mood board

The store itself is a cute size so the next challenge was to create a store that felt brighter and more spacious. To do this we kept the joinery lightweight in look, used glass for some of the shelving, made the clothing, rear wall and central table the focus of the room and introduced plenty of mirrors. The use of a natural colour palette for the materials and finishes also helped to keep the room looking light and welcoming.

An early sketch of the shopfront

A sketch of the proposed interior design

Rather than selecting mass produced furniture Lisa & Maree had a fun time sourcing reclaimed and second hand furniture from the Woolloongabba Antique Centre and Brisbane Fabric Market. A few of these items were then re-upholstered for a fresh new look.

Shoe lasts and recycled furniture

For some of the smaller details timber shoe lasts were sourced from a small shoe making business in New Zealand and used as feature display mounts. Black cord was also used to make the drawer handles and timber from Dwyers Recycled Yard was used to make the mirror frames.

The store finished and ready to shop!

The use of low VOC paints for the walls, wood wash from Porters Paints for the display cabinets, 100% wool carpet for the central floor finish, recycled timber for the feature table and recessed LED lights were used to create a healthier, sustainable and low energy environment.

This has truly been a self build with a lot of love put into the construction as vast amounts of the store fit out has been implemented by Lisa, Maree and their supportive families.

This approach has given a small space a new lease of life with a strong identity and with the added bonus of reducing their energy and fit-out costs.

If you are in Brisbane this week and would like first dibs at their gorgeous selection of clothing and shoes click here for information on the opening day this Friday.

I wish both Lisa and Maree all the best with their new business venture and an exciting journey as one of Brisbane's new fashion retailers.

Have fun.

Recycled Upholstery Chairs & Poufs

2011-08-22T09:03:00.000+10:00

How about these Drops chairs and poufs for recycled inspiration... This lovely idea is by a Norway based furniture designer Camilla Hounsell Halvorsen.

images via Khio

These chairs are made from inner tubes wrapped with recycled upholstery fabric. As the tube seat is not attached to it's frame it can be tilted for comfort or removed and used as a pouf.

It just goes to show it's worth keeping all the scraps of fabric!

Have fun.

Green Furniture Upholstery Fabric Alternatives :: Knitted Stools

2011-08-15T09:47:00.000+10:00

I happen to agree that reupholstering furniture is a quick and easy way to bring new life to an old piece of furniture and make a basic piece of furniture look amazing.

Also it does not have to stop with recovering chairs, you could recover stools, make a new headboard, transform an ugly ottoman, recover old cushions, beanbags, the list goes on...

Also there is no reason why you could not use these fabric alternatives:

Vintage curtains
Old covers for sofas
Thick felt blankets
Old thick clothes like denim
Knitted wool

So following on from last weeks knitted lamps I found these lovely knitted stools.

Created by Claire-Anne O'Brien these stools are a texture mix of hand and machine knit stitches inspired by the elements of the knitted stitch itself such as rings and loops.

image from Claire-Anne O'Brien

Also these Urchin Poufs designed by Christian Meindertsma are hand knit in the Netherlands using wool from a New Zealand and when you purchase your stool you get a card identifying where the sheep flock came from!

images from Christian Meindertsma

They are so inviting don't you just want to sit on them all?

Have fun.

Knitted objects :: Granny lamps

2011-08-08T09:13:00.000+10:00

Knitting may not be trendy these days but maybe I can change your mind?

I was searching for some lamps that were made from natural materials and a softer style than the usual when I came across this Granny Lamp by casamania and designer Pudelskern.

The design is inspired by a direct response to the climate challenges of cold winters and reviving the traditions and memories of your Granny knitting around the fireplace while telling stories. I am sure we all have these same memories?

This thick natural wool comes from sheep bred on alpine pastures and each lamp can even be tracked back to the flock where the wool came from.

images from Casamania & Pudelskern

The wool is then knitted by a collective of home-based workers in the Netherlands and then a natural treatment is applied making the wool flame resistant and resistant to moth and mite infestation.

This is such a nice way to bring back traditional skills in such a modern style... and if you are looking to buy these in Australia they can be sourced through Janie Collins Interiors.

Have fun.

Decorating With Ladders :: In The Bathroom

2011-08-01T09:56:00.000+10:00

I am now looking at the fun decorative part of my bathroom renovation and have always wanted to incorporate ladders in a bathroom.

They are great a piece of furniture that can be both practical and decorative, act as storage for towels or as a simple towel rack.

Easy to find, cheap to recycle and they make a nice decorative DIY project.

I am just loving these below...

images from Pinterest, Remodelvista & Pottery Barn

I just have to find space for them...

Have fun.

Bathroom Design Ideas :: Basins & Sinks

2011-07-25T10:31:00.000+10:00

My bathroom is a little on the small side to accommodate this collection of floor mounted and counter top sinks and basins.

However they are still lovely to look at.

I love these... such a pure design!

images from Neutra

This bathroom collection by Neutra perfectly incorporates nature with modern bathroom fixtures. The combination of the stone and the Kauri wood creates a harmonious balance of calm and relaxation for any bathroom.

I will have to purchase a home with a larger bathroom next time just so that I can install one of these freestanding stone basins.

Have fun.

Richard Branson's Makepeace Private Island :: Noosa River, Australia

2011-07-22T08:52:00.000+10:00

If you ever wished to stay on one of Richard Branson's Islands now you can!

A little bit piece of Bali has just arrived nearer to home in Richard Branson's Makepeace Private Island here on the Noosa River in Queensland.

The island accommodates up to 22 guests with a mixture of accommodation ranging from private Balinese Bures (Villa's), a Bali House and a Boat House.

Each building is detailed in a traditional Balinese style.

This bath looks like it has been hand carved from Indonesia stone.

All buildings have been designed and constructed in Bali and then reassembled on the island. This retains the Balinese traditional building style and supports both the local Balinese and Australian builders.

Also all furnishings, sculptures, antiques and lighting are one off original pieces sourced from throughout Bali, Java and Indonesia. That would have been a fantastic research and shopping excursion for someone!

images via Makepeace Island

You have to admire the traditional timber detailing.

Have a great weekend.

Bathroom design ideas :: Lighting & details

2011-07-18T15:01:00.000+10:00

Back onto my bathroom renovation this week. Seems like it has been ages but I can only fit this little reno in between my client's projects.

I was looking for some tiling ideas when I stumbled across this bathroom design by Ara Design Studio. They have soften what could have been another clinical bathroom with the use of feature lighting, rectangle tiles and bevelled mirror panels.

Images from Ara Design & Vogue Living

The combination of the little vintage Japanese lantern and the non-rectified glazed terracotta tiles creates a soft feel to room whilst the use of mirrors gives the illusion that the room is much bigger and lighter.

Great character bathroom!

Have fun.

Fjall :: Falls Creek, Victoria, Australia

2011-07-15T09:03:00.000+10:00

It is always the way that the year you do not plan for a ski holiday is the season of perfect snow!

In celebration of a great year for Australia's ski resorts I would like to tell you about Fjall Ski Lodge in Falls Creek. For those of you that have been following me from last year would know that I had the opportunity to stay in Falls Creek and view some of their lovely lodges.

This luxury alpine lodge with interiors designed by Hecker, Phelan & Guthrie brings a strong sense of nature and the outdoors inside with a subtle reference to the Scandinavian interior design style.

Their palette uses a mix of oak timber floors, custom designed oak timber joinery softened with a palette of charcoal, white, black and pale grey fabrics and upholstery. They also keep to an Australian made focus with their beds and ottomans made by Jardan.

images by Peter Bennetts

These rooms certainly provide a sense of calm and balance reflecting the landscape that surrounds this lodge. If you are interested in staying at Falls Creek for your next Ski holiday, click here for further details on the Fjall Ski Lodge.

Have fun.

Kitchen & Dining Room Furniture Ideas :: Timber Stools

2011-07-11T22:16:00.000+10:00

What if we could create a beautiful piece of furniture from a forest weed?

A local Queensland furniture designer has done just that.

Designed by a local Queenslander Darcy Clarke, these stools are made from Champor Laural timber and fully recyclable plastic (moulded from the timber stool). These simple stools have a natural honest charm reminiscent of camp fire logs.

They also come in a variety of colours and can work in a wide range of situations like kitchen stools, dining room seats and outdoor furniture.

I love the timber with the yellow stools!

images from darcyclarke

Also there is no need to worry about the source of the timber because in SE Queensland, Champor Laural is classed as a weed, and is threatening the native blue gums which is home to our Koalas.

You can see more of Darcy's designs at darcyclarke.com

Have fun.

Alcheringa :: Lamington NP, Queensland

2011-07-08T10:55:00.000+10:00

It's now mid winter here in South East Queensland and contrary to the perception of a hot sub-tropical climate it can get really cold here.

So this time of year my thoughts go to sunny decks, outside hot tubs and cosy wood fire burners.

One place that springs to mind that I have been trying to get a booking for a while is Alcheringa in Lamington National Park.

This retreat is an Architect designed house of rock, timber and glass which overlooks the stunning Numinbah & Coomera Valleys below.

With the use of timber cladding, filtered sunlight and a cosy fireplace this home creates a feeling of warmth, peace and tranquility which makes you leave the city life behind and feel the real meaning of a mountain retreat.

images from Alcheringa

I have been told that from the Master bedroom you can even wake up to see the clouds below you and with the massive deck and spa overlooking the forest, you can really feel like you are at one with nature!

Not a bad location for just a few hours outside Brisbane!

Have fun.

Kitchen & Dining Room Design Ideas :: Stools

2011-07-04T21:08:00.000+10:00

A few weeks back I was looking for some timber stools for a dinning room table and now I have found some matching timber stools perfect for an island kitchen bench or bar area.

These timber stools are by Danish designer Erik Buch and manufactured by Preben Schou.

images above from Great Dane Furniture

images from homelife and photographer Sam McAdam

They come in a range of leather, fabric and timber combinations. My favourite would have to be the lime green leather seat and dark or light timber base...

If you fancy a splurge they can be purchased in Australia from Great Dane Furniture.

There are replicas on the market but if want your stool to last I would invest a little bit more in an original.

Have fun.

Retreat Accommodation :: Gaia Retreat, Byron, NSW

2011-07-01T10:05:00.001+10:00

My birthday is soon approaching. Another year older and another year wiser and all that.

I now see Birthday's as a chance to relax, unwind and chill out with a glass of wine and a soak in an outdoor spa!

Last year was a bit of a milestone and a lovely skiing holiday in Falls Creek. I am now on the hunt for my birthday weekend break and I suppose that this post is a little hint to my husband...

Now this place I have had my eye on for a few years...

Gaia is a retreat style accommodation, created by Olivia Newton-John and friend Gregg Cave from a run down farm in the Byron Bay Hinterland in 2004.

The retreat is meant to reflects Olivia's connection with the environment, her healthy attitude to life and a statement of her personal style.

This clearly comes through with the types of wellness programs that they run, their use of organic and locally grown produce and Byron's peaceful setting.

I would say in style terms this is a place where "bare-foot meets contemporary Asian eclectic", with the decor mixing influences form Asian, Rococo style and natural contemporary furniture and materials.

The Kukura House - A Somoan style contemporary longhouse

The Decor - Where Asian meets contemporary, natural and eclectic

What a view!

No wonder I am drawn to this place!

Have fun.

Dining Room Design Ideas :: Recycled Timber Tables

2011-06-27T21:53:00.000+10:00

It's amazing what you can create from a pile of timber off-cuts.

Pacha Design, a design and make partnership based in the UK, do just that! They specialise in creating simple pieces of modern furniture from waste timber and natural materials sourced from local shipyards, skips, farms and storm damage.

This rustic table and bench set are made from a mixture of recycled oak finished with a hard wax oil and cornish slate for the seat.

From timber off-cuts to pieces of furniture

In addition to furniture they also make some beautiful natural accessories like these recycled timber mirrors, artwork and delicate leaf skeleton tea lights.

all images and designs by Pacha Design

They also have a blog if you want to keep an eye on their latest creations!

Have fun.

Luxury Swag Camp :: Blue Mouintains

2011-06-24T10:39:00.000+10:00

I know it is quite cold at the moment but I have been camping quite a bit recently, but nothing quite as glamourous as this 'swag camp' from Blue Mountains Private Safaris Luxury Swag Camp.

This camp is also an ideal model for Eco Tourism with no very basic infrastructure. There is no electricity, all water is filtered, all waste is removed from site and no fixed structures for minimal impact.

The camp is built to fit in with the surrounding environment, with raised timber 'swag' decks, with swag bedrolls, soft pillows and duvets for added comfort and a canopy overhead which you can roll back to see the stars.

Backing on to each deck there is an 'en-suite' hand basin and mirror plus an open air shower, chemical toilet and screened changing area.

There is also an outdoor fireplace set up to look like something you would find in your own home!

images via Blue Mountains Private Safaris Luxury Swag Camp

There is no formal restaurant but instead your guide will provide all meals in an outdoor dining area shaded by canopy poles with great views of the mountains and river below.

This is the best experience if you want to try luxury bush swag camping and feel at one with nature but not give up on those creature comforts.

Have a great weekend.

Glamping & Luxury Tents :: Aman-i-Khas, Rajasthan

2011-06-17T10:12:00.000+10:00

I am off on a leadership training weekend today and camping is going to be only form of accommodation... I do love sleeping outdoors but given the choice between my two-man tent or glamping I am afraid I would have to choose the creature comforts of glamorous camping.

So this has given me an idea to research what is out there in the way of luxury tents and checking some out on my next travels.

The first one that captures my eye is Aman-i-Khas. This is a wilderness camp of 10 air-conditioned tents surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and located on the edge of Rajasthan's Ranthambore National Park in India.

I have actually been to this National Park a few years before this beautiful resort was built. Never mind... maybe next time.

images via Aman-i-Khas

As you can see from these photos each tent is like a luxury apartment surrounded by soaring canopies of fabric draped in a Moghul style.

I am sure from my past experience with this level of accommodation in India, the level of service and attention to detail will be impeccable. Also one can not forget the amazing peace and tranquility that comes with staying in a National Park and the chance to see a Tiger from the back of an elephant.

If I return to India this would definitely be on my bucket list for places to stay.

Have fun this weekend.

Kitchen & Dining Room Design Ideas :: Stools

2011-06-14T07:24:00.001+10:00

After a peaceful public holiday weekend trekking through Springbrook's rainforest and creeks I am now back to work...

Last week while working on a design project I came across these lovely stools from Janie Collins.

images via Janie Collins

These sturdy stools made and designed in Australia by life space journey are inspired by milking stools and hand crafted from steel and recycled australian hardwood.

They are also available in a wide range of colours as well as a raw finish.

Perfect for the kitchen or dining room area.

Have fun.

W Retreat & Spa :: Maldives

2011-06-10T09:28:00.000+10:00

Call me soft but yesterday was one of the coldest days I have en-counted here in Brisbane. With 7c at night and 12.5c in the day this is cold for our sub-tropical climate that normally hovers around 20-24c and clear blue skies!

So where to today.... somewhere hot and tropical like the W Retreat & Spa in the Maldives?

This retreat is set on a private island in the Maldives. It's designed with the indoor and outdoor as one, with views of the sky, glass paneled floors that reveal the lagoon below and unparalleled sea views.

All designs within the W Hotel series adopt sustainable practices, use natural materials and commission local artwork, furniture and fabrics for he interior decoration.

images via Starwood & W Hotels

The only thing that stops me from going staying here is the cost... With money aside this hotel is definitely on my Bucket List!

Have fun.

Recycled & Up-cycled Furniture :: Grand Designs Live 2011, London

2011-06-06T07:19:00.000+10:00

There were a few furniture design companies at the show but these three recycled furniture designers / businesses really caught my eye as all three have a very different approach to recycled and up-cycled furniture design. Hope you enjoy...

Wind-felled Salvaged Timber Furniture

Firstly, the beauty in Jonathan fields work is that each piece of furniture is made from wind-felled salvage timber and inspired by the grain and cut of the timber.

With each piece of timber being hand selected and designed around the shrinkage cracks, burrs and line of the grain for the right look and minimal wastage.

With this in mind each piece tells a unique story and celebrates the age and history of the tree.

images via Jonathan Fields

Old Boat Furniture

This company aptly named Old Boat Furniture supply furniture to any design and colour combination, recycling timber furniture from no longer seaworthy fishing boats sourced from around South East Asia.

Each piece is slightly different thus making a new unique piece of furniture with both character and history.

images via Old Boat Furniture

'Once a Door' chairs by Claire Danthois Designs

Finally, this chair is bespoke up-cycling at its finest! Old doors, landfill recycled timber and old pew seats are used to create this new piece of furniture.

Claire even makes sure that old markings from the previous use of the wood are not covered.

For more recycled and up-cycled chair ideas check out Claire Danthois Designs.
image via Claire Danthois Designs

Have fun.

Luxury Eco Homes, Decking & Luxury Homes :: Grand Designs Live 2011, London

2011-05-30T07:37:00.000+10:00

Here goes my Top 3 building ideas from Grand Designs Live 2011...

Luxury Eco Homes

This building principle caught my eye from bacaArchitects and bacaHomes.

Baca Architects established their LiFE project in 2005 to identify ways in which the construction industry could help tackle rising carbon dioxide emissions and adapt to climate change, in particular to those in Flood-risk environments.

One of their ideas was to deal with rain by providing green roofs, gravel swales, flood resilient gardens, elevated buildings and rainwater harvesting to contribute towards a zero carbon footprint and flood-proof development.

images via bacaHomes

These ideas also keep a home design in harmony with it's surrounding landscape.

Anti slip decking

I prefer not to select artificial materials but I was quite impressed with this wood-substitute recycled composite decking made by Millboard.

image via Millboard

Made of 50% recycled 'hard to use' timber waste it looks similar to weathered timber but without the maintenance and has the added bonus of a non slip surface.

Luxury homes with great views

Finally there was this stunning dream home in La Zagaleta in Southern Spain designed by London Architect Peter Thomas de Cruz.

Peter's primary focus is on designing
both
high quality

new build and alterations to existing
private houses. His main design philosophy is to blur the internal and external boundaries and connect indoor spaces with nature.

This is clearly eveident with this stunning home.

images via Thomas De Cruz photography by Simon Collins
Now that's a house with great views!

Have fun.

Garden Pods, Hanging Playrooms, Artificial Grass :: Grand Designs Live 2011, London

2011-05-23T01:00:00.052+10:00

It was so nice to see Grand Designs Live in London. Even though in Australia our building standards and housing requirements are quite different it was nice to see a mix of different designs and ideas.
The show was clearly separated under the following different sections:

Gardens
Building
Interiors
Kitchens & bathrooms
Eco

As there were quite a lot of things to see each week I will focus on my 'Top Three' from each section starting with Gardens...

Cacoon

Here's an idea for a hanging chillout space. These alternative hanging structures are by Hang In Out and can be purchased on-line or here in Australia.

images via Hang-it-out

Designed for children and adults alike this design takes the hammock to another level.

Made from acrylic canvas and marine sail cloth they come with UV protection, can be hung from anywhere and have additional insect screens.

Having sat in one at the show I can vouch for how comfy they are!

Garden Pods

Long gone are the days of the 'Potting Shed'. Say "Hello" to the modern 'Man Cave' or garden pod, garden office, playroom or outdoor dining area.

These outdoor structures from Contemporary Garden Rooms have a wide collection of outdoor garden spaces to suit all your needs.

A couple of structures caught my eye...

The Cube

It is constructed from cedar and plywood and comes with a rubber roof. A great solution for creating an additional outdoor eating area, a relaxation room or playroom.

The myPod

images above via Contemporary Garden Rooms

This pod is constructed from Cedar and comes as a fully-insulated unit with double glazing, lockable doors and windows, seats and a table that folds down or stows away to make a sleeping area.

These have been used as:

Outside dining rooms
Sleeping pods
Office pods
Kid's games rooms
Glamping (glamorous camping)
Music rehearsals pods

I know my husband would love this as his musical 'Man Cave'!

Also, if you live in the UK these units are less than 2.5m in height so no planning permission is required!

Artifical grass

More and more companies are now popping up with artificial grass as a more practical option to the real thing. This family of grass is from Easigrass in London. They have many different types for different uses and looks such as outdoor gardens, garden function areas, sports grass, indoor displays and child play areas.

I never thought that I would look into artificial grass but having lived here in Brisbane for a few years I can see the benefits such as:

Pet friendly
Child friendly
No mud
No mowing
No watering

Although not a complete substitute for a well planned drought tolerant garden it allows for another option in our time poor lives and decreases the risk of those nasty ant bites!

I only know of one friend that has recently installed artificial grass here in Brisbane and that's Michelle from Paper Tree Studio. I will have to pop round soon and see how it looks and feels.

Have fun.

Beach Huts :: Middleton, South Australia

2011-05-20T09:21:00.000+10:00

I had forgotten how quaint those beach huts were in Whitstable so I continued my search to see if there were any more closer to home.

Is was not long before I found this beach hut complex called Beach Huts in Middleton South Australia.

There are 12 in total surrounding a restaurant and bar, a tennis court and a communal "village hall" type room open to all guests.

images via Beach Huts Middleton

Attention to detail is evident with the selection of decor, recycled furniture, beach side finds, white washed timber floors and walls and even patchwork fabric!

A nice mix of the contemporary and the traditional.

Have a great weekend.

Beach Huts and Houses :: Whitstable, England

2011-05-16T07:14:00.000+10:00

Back in Australia now and I thought I would show a few pics from my walks around the Whitsable coast line.

Enjoy...

Pastel painted beach huts.

Lots of great beach houses, garden courtyards and decks.

Beach House Design Ideas :: Whitstable, England

2011-05-09T01:00:00.047+10:00

Continuing with my beach side finds along the Kent coast...

Who needs to worry about the cost of a 350sqm house when you can live in something as small as 35sqm!

Nina Tolstrup from Studiomama has designed this cosy beach house for her own family of four as a weekend retreat on the Whitstable coast.

The total floor area is only 35sqm plus a small deck at the front and rear. The structure is built on galvanised steel stilts to prevent flooding, with the outside clad in cedar shingles and inside clad in a light softwood timber.

Loads of ideas are used here for maximising space; split floor levels separating the sleeping from the living areas with bunk beds for the kids and a mezzanine sleeping area for the parents; a compact and efficient kitchen and bathroom and a mix of reclaimed timber furniture and stackable chairs.

images via Studiomama & Ben Anders

Sea views are captured by full height glazing to the front allowing for that inside-outside feel and maximum light penetration.

For a relaxing weekend just add a bottle of wine! Have fun.

The Bakery Cottage :: Whitstable, Kent

2011-05-06T01:00:00.001+10:00

I am staying with family in Whitstable, Kent and one of my favourite past times is strolling along the beach and checking out all the beachside cottages.

For those of you who have not had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful part of the Kent coast, Whitstable is still a traditional fishing village and renowned for its coloured beach huts and cute seaside cottages that line the pebbled beaches.

One such property is a beautifully restored Bakery nestled amongst a line of traditional terraced houses in Suffolk Street. To retain it's 1950's character the cottage is decorated with 50's and 60's furniture, wrought iron beds and white wash timber throughout.

It also comes with a private shingle and cobble stone courtyard garden.

I miss those lovely courtyards!

If you are looking for a cottage in Whitstable you can check out prices here.

I did go wild with my camera and have loads more images on my beach finds for next week. Off to Grand Designs Live tomorrow.

Have fun.

Grand Designs Live :: London 2011

2011-05-02T02:29:00.000+10:00

When I used to live in the UK one of my favourite programmes use to be Grand Designs.

The presenter Kevin McCloud would feature ordinary people building or renovating architectural masterpieces, anything from listed heritage buildings, to castles and old warehouses to houses under the ground and carbon neutral eco homes.

While I am in the UK I will be packing my camera and popping along to the Grand Designs Live Exhibition in London to see the latest and greatest in Interior and Architectural design. For anyone from Australia I think it is being held in Sydney in October.

Until I return, here's a couple of images from the latest Grand Designs Magazine and Grand Designs Live Exhibition to wet your appetite.

love this glazing to the base of the house!

love the inside outside vista between the rooms!

photography by Richard Powers from Grand Designs Magazine

images via Grand Designs Live 2011

Have fun.

The Royal Wedding :: The Goring Hotel, London

2011-04-30T03:54:00.026+10:00

I am actually staying in the UK at the moment and along with many millions of people yesterday watched with delight The Royal Wedding.

Now when Buckingham Palace is full the 100 year old Goring Hotel is used as an overspill for guest accommodation. Yesterday the Middleton party booked out all of the rooms for their family and friends and held their own party there for those not invited to the Buckingham Palace bash.

The luxurious Goring Hotel opened in 1910 and was the world's first hotel with en-suite facilities and central heating to every bedroom. This was revolutionary for its time!

Here is a few pics of the it's luxurious comfort and glamourous interiors.

spot the sheep...

images courtesy of The Goring Hotel

Have fun.