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Through the Lens of | Anna Kern

Through the Lens of | Anna Kern
As I look through the portfolio of talented Swedish photographer, Anna Kern, I am once again reminded that the Swedes have the most amazing style. Lots of natural wood, simple hanging lights and pure whites bring warmth, purity and softness. I love discovering images of beautiful Swedish interiors and these ones are so pretty. Some of these spaces look so cosy and inviting that I wouldn't mind living in them! 


Skulls | Not Just For Kids

My sons love that I have a bit of a thing for skulls. Especially the eldest who loves pirates and therefore anything with a skull and crossbones. They're not so impressed with the look-but-don't-touch rule when it comes to my skull candles! 

The skull trend has been around for a while now and by the look of these cool design pieces, it may be here for a while longer. Here's hoping!

Skull chair by Léa Padovani & Sébastien Kieffer of Pool
Skull necklaces via depends what day it is 
'Wasted Youth' (left) and 'Shelf Life' (right) by artist James Hopkins from a
series of mixed media in which random objects and furniture are composed 

to create the image of human skulls
Skull candle ranges from D.L & Co
Skull jewellery and scarf by Alexander McQueen 
Alexander McQueen white floral skull tank
Barbara Bui skull detail tank available from farfetch.com
Limited edition ceramics at Flotsam & Jetsam. Modelled on original 
Crown Lynn pieces with gold skull and crossbones transfer. Cups are made 
from iconic NZ Railway cups   

Homes to Inspire | Mid-century modern in Malibu

Homes to Inspire | Mid-century modern in Malibu


There is so much to love when it comes to mid-century design and this iconic beach home in Malibu ticks all the boxes. Created in 1956 by Craig Ellwood, a master of mid-century modernism, in association with Jerrold E. Lomax, the home was recently restored after many years of neglect. 

I love seeing the preservation of mid-century architecture. Proving that good design doesn't date, this house is just as contemporary and relevant today as it was when it was designed and built over 50 years ago.  

The gorgeous mix of black, white and timber in the living room is so striking. Carpet has been replaced with cork flooring, creating a clean and simple surface for the designer furniture which includes rosewood Eames chairs, a Paolo Piva ‘Alanda’ coffee table and Laverne International 1950s footstools and curving armless sofa. 
It's great to see that the original brick and timber of the house has been retained. I love the contrast of the sideboard against the darker wood panelled wall.... 
....and the gorgeous patterned rug in the media room which was inspired by the exposed brick wall.
Sweeping ocean views and a stunning outdoor area with pool and cabana complete this mid-century masterpiece. 


Seen in Inside Out | Photo credit: Richard Powers

Denimdenim | Word of Mouth Architecture

Denimdenim | Word of Mouth Architecture

I've been daydreaming of holiday escapes to warmer climates lately. The onset of winter will do that to you I guess! One hot spot that I'd like to visit is Bali. Friends have said it's a great place to holiday, especially for the shopping. Seeing shops like this one located on the island Seminyak, I can believe the hype! 

Deninmdenim by Word of Mouth Architecture is part of an existing chain on the island. Wanting to attract a more discerning customer for the upmarket location, the client's brief for this new store was to take a different brand direction. While it has the industrial feel of the other stores, the new look includes unique elements like graphics, foliage and recycling.

The gorgeous interior has a neutral palette of polished concrete, recycled teak wood and black steel. Add to that some very cool features and bit of humour and the result is inspiring. There's a custom wall with graphics that comprise of famous quotes and denim and stitching designs, mannequins with their heads replaced as plants, and my favourite, merchandise displays allowing clothing items to float elegantly amongst hanging plants and pendant lights. 



Source: Arch Daily | Photo Credit: Moch Sulthonn

Norm Architects



I first came across the work of Danish Architects Kasper Rønn and Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen when their Fredensborg House (above) featured in the May, 2011 issue of Living Etc. Sending my heart a flutter with a 12 page feature dedicated to 'the brilliance of Danish style', this house was a shining example. 

Their Copenhagen architectural firm NORM, is a "multidisciplinary studio focusing on residential architecture, commercial interiors and industrial design". I've since spent a lot of time on their site, admiring the beautiful homes they've created. The minimalist designs exude a sense of calm and an almost ethereal quality. I think if I could take one of these houses and add a few more pops of colour, I might just have my dream home!  

Have a look at the site for more of Norm's projects. Their range of design products are also stunning. I'll have to share some with you another day!