Surrounded by the famous Hollywood hills, the Dream Hollywood Hotel has been designed in reference to the iconic mid-century modern architecture of Los Angeles by the Rockwell Group, a New York based architectural practice. Along with his team, led by Rockwell Group Partner and Studio Leader Shawn Sullivan, they have created a contemporary framework for the lobby, guest rooms and rooftop amenities. The 178 room hotel is moments from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the landmark Grauman’s Chinese Theatre with views of the iconic Hollywood sign and the city’s skyline from the rooftop bar, lounge and restaurant. Respected mid-century architects in such as John Launter, Richard Neutra and others were the inspiration for the hotel drawing on their residential work in California. Garden-inspired elements and plush upholstery were key components to creating an experience that is the perfect blend of hyper-chic and comfort. A Sense of SpaceReflected in the landscape and neighbouring hillside properties, the hotel has strong, seamless visual connections between the indoors and outdoors. This is evident as soon as guests enter the lobby with it’s double height entrance space opening up to a landscaped pedestrian ‘path’ Subtle tiling leads to a reception and concierge area with a focal point of an oversized stone fireplace inspired by the hearths found in many mid-century Los Angeles homes. A Sense of PlayEven when walking around the hotel there’s a playful hint of the outdoors with strips of grass set between stone tile flooring and corridor ceilings lit in a way to echo sunlight streaming in through the wooden slats. Custom carpets are based on abstract random patterns created when light hits the floor and in the lobby area at night there are lights mimicking the shadows cast by the sun hitting the trees. A Sense of NatureThe two colour schemes for the guest rooms were inspired by colours found in nature. The first was inspired by sky, water and white houses against a desert backdrop with a palette of blues, whites and the neutral tones accented with orange. The second palette draws from the warmer hues of a sunset. A Sense of OpennessEach guest room has been designed to convey a modern sense of openness with large windows linking the outside and inside worlds. Internally, the bathroom and sleeping areas are divided by a row of freestanding, bronze shelving units that support the bathroom sink, mirror and mini bar. The bathroom walls and walkway are clad in reclaimed wooden tiles arranged in an exaggerated parquet pattern, adding texture, interest and warmth to the rooms. A Sense of CalmThe Guest House is a spacious, glass-walled retreat inspired by the clean simplicity of mid-century architecture. Floor to ceiling windows maximise the sweeping views of the Los Angeles cityscape and a glass-enclosed daybed surrounded by views of the trees provides a cosy area for lounging with an additional dining/bar area and a living room with a feature marble wall. A Sense of SophisticationLocated on the rooftop of the hotel is the Highlight Room, an outdoor bar, lounge and restaurant covered by a retractable roof enclosure with views of the city skyline and iconic Hollywood sign. The pool area offers guests intimate seating such as two-person chaises and raised cabanas with a retractable top and sides or there is more communal seating with a fire pit area for guests to gather. However you choose to relax, this is pure Hollywood sophistication.
ADDRESS: Hotel address 6417 Selma Avenue, Los Angeles, California. You May Also Like
Photography: Interior images by Emily Andres/ Highlight room and rooftop images by Warren Jagger The post Dream Hollywood Hotel: Iconic mid-century design meets LA style. appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/dream-hollywood-hotel-iconic-mid-century-design-la-style/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167582184863 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167582244389
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Neatly fitted between an office building and an apartment block on a quiet side street in Clerkenwell, East London, lies a three-storey house that has undergone a full refurbishment. Michaelis Boyd, a design-led architectural practice known for their simple, elegant approach with an emphasis on sustainability, were commissioned to work on the house. Originally an 18th Century ironmonger’s workshop, this property has gone through numerous changes and renovations with it’s last incarnation in the early 1990s from a two-storey office to a three-storey contemporary town house. The origins of the building formed the inspiration for this project resulting in a modern design style with a light industrial touch. Multifunctional SpacesThe owner wanted to create spaces suitable for working and entertaining so the floor plans were reconfigured with the ground floor for meetings and large parties, living level on the first floor and bedrooms on the second floor. Commenting on the project, Alex Michaelis, co-founder of Michaelis Boyd says “Working on the Pear Street project was challenging in that there was so much space for a couple and they were living in a very disjointed way within the spaces, so convincing them to change their ways and create a flow to the spaces, and a more natural way of living and working in the spaces.” Outside linksBeing a terraced property the outdoor space has been cleverly utilised with a terrace at first floor level creating an extension to the living space and a new roof terrace providing vast views of the City. The design concept was to live connected to the exterior environment, taking in the views and integrating outdoor spaces achieved through bespoke windows and skylights throughout the house. The glazing on the terrace façades has been designed with minimal frames which slide completely into the walls creating a seamless feel of outdoor/indoor living when opened up. Three white birch trees have been planted for their sculptural form and shade they provide in the summer. Material WorldThe façade to the street was clad in new brickwork and the window openings were reconfigured to suit the new layout including two new glass boxes projecting out from the building whilst providing window seats in the living room and guest bedroom. This attention to the materials and finish is present throughout the whole property with new polished concrete slabs on the ground floor and engineered rustic oak flooring in the rest of the house. Industrial HistoryThe new staircase is made of blackened steel plates clad with rustic oak treads with blackened perforated metal balustrades referencing the original ironmonger’s workshop and the industrial history of the area. The Art of FoodThe Bulthaup kitchen was designed so that cooking from the hob in the island unit faces out onto the terrace. The owner loves to barbecue so this was designed to function as an extension of the kitchen with a white painted brick clad chimney space housing a bio-ethanol fuelled fireplace outside. A Bedroom OasisDesigned specifically as a haven for rest, the master bedroom suite has a picture framed window with views across London with the only other items in the room being the bed and custom designed black stained oak and velvet headboard. The master bathroom has a grey moody palette with dark grey polished plaster wall, black chevron tile flooring and matt black sanitary ware from Dornbracht. Skylights over the double shower and dressing room allow light to penetrate these spaces. Michaelis Boyd have created open circulation spaces allowing for the natural flow of people and activities, finished to their high standards whilst regenerating the property to suit modern day living with a sensitive nod to the building’s past. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of Billy Bolton The post East London Industrial: A Residential Refurbishment inspired by an Ironmonger’s appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/east-london-industrial-ironmongers-inspiration-residential-refurbishment/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167546782273 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167546839134 Run a house with a large family and the décor will often be substituted for more practical needs. However, there is one family in North London who have learnt to buck the trend and keep design at the forefront of their home, whilst keeping it at the heart of the family. Jade Lovejoy and her husband Andy have six children collectively and live in a 5 bedroom, Victorian semi-detached property in Crouch End. Jade is an interior stylist specialising in commercial & editorial photo shoots, window installations & visual merchandising displays. She has styled the windows for Liberty & Harvey Nichols and designed store layouts for Jack Wills, Urban Outfitters plus Cabbages and Roses (just to name a few).
Jade’s unique family life and interest in interiors has led her to document a series of creative family homes and lifestyles, in a truthful and realistic style blog. When meeting with Jade she made one statement about her home which really summed it up: ‘Our home is an eclectic mix of styles, vintage treasures and old window props. But living with children, you learn not to be too precious about things. Our children’s masterpieces hang next to art we have collected and antiques we have inherited. Our house is a loud, vivacious family home and I think that is reflected in its style.’ As the focal point of the house, Jade’s kitchen has been renovated, incorporating an extension which allows plenty of light into the area through glass windows above and at the rear. The dark frames and walls complement the space by adding a beautiful contrast to the light streaming through. Keeping the shelves the same colour as the walls helps to emphasise the pieces featured on them. This vintage dining table from The Old Cinema is beautifully rustic, whilst also providing enough space for all eight of them to enjoy a family dinner. The kitchen-diner flows effortlessly with the use of colour. The Fired Earth tiles balance the transition between the walls and work surfaces, which themselves are accompanied with wonderful personal touches – the children’s sketch taped to the wall keeps the atmosphere homely. The living room is beautifully designed with painted floorboards and contrasting walls. Pops of colour are added through accessories, such as the cushions and children’s artwork. This showstopper of a cabinet creates a huge statement against the dark grey walls. Discovered and purchased at Kempton Antiques Market, Jade painted it herself with Farrow & Ball ‘Yellow Cake’. Accompanied with a Bianca Hall neon sign it adds life and intrigue to the room, plus a spirited style which is resembled in Jade herself. In the bedroom Jade continues with the use of darker tones with bursts of colour. Her eclectic taste runs through the house, with a lot of pieces being market finds or family heirlooms. This trunk was found at Pure White Lines in East London and works perfectly as a bedside table. Having children means there is always extra storage needed for books and toys. However, it is just as important to create a space in which children can also feel relaxed. This tepee was purchased from Etsy and creates a cute hideaway for children to read or even do their homework. The wooden storage crates add a rustic element, proving that toys don’t have to remain on show or be stored in unattractive, plastic boxes. The bathroom is beautiful, and Jade has taken a lot of care to create a stunning sanctuary that is perfect for escaping a busy city life. The muted colours are calming, whilst the plants add life and freshness to the room. The vintage frames help to personalise the space and the mirror adds an extra dimension making the room feel bigger. We wanted to know how Jade’s house remains so beautiful, plus any tips she has for keeping it that way. We asked a few questions to find out more! IDEALIST: What is the biggest challenge of running a family home? Learning to let go of perfectionism and realising a neat home is a dull one! Storage is one way of putting some of the things in your life in order and a big challenge in the family home. You have to create ways of hiding all of the kid paraphernalia, or at the very least closing some small door on it all! (the toys obviously, not the kids!) The biggest design challenge is the chaos, the mix of styles, personalities and collections, although it does make our home unique. IDEALIST: What advice would you give to other parents with children, in keeping the home a place you all love? Teach your children to respect and love the things you have in your home as much as you do. IDEALIST: Who is your biggest design inspiration? Jan Showers says, “Every room needs a touch of black, just as it needs at least one antique piece.” I love this. Pinterest is brilliant but the problem is we all follow the same boards so covert the same Berber rugs and we all have a tile obsession! Inspiration can come from art, travel and nature as well as other inspirational designers. IDEALIST: From doing your own renovation, what are your top design tips for a family home? Paint is one of the easiest ways to transform a room, and it can also be one of the cheapest. Darker walls can instantly make a space feel more luxurious, stylish and, contrary to what we may think, it doesn’t make a space feel smaller – AND it hides handprints, scooter scuffs and whatever else they wipe on the walls! ‘Your home should tell a story of who you are and be a collection of what you love’. In our house it’s the dark colours and curiosities that create the drama (as well as the teenagers!). Get the lighting right. I love our ceiling roses and decorative pendant lights (bought at Kempton antiques markets), but I feel uncomfortable in a room with the overhead lights on. We have lamps everywhere. Lighting will make a room cosy and inviting, but also highlights your home decoration. This may make me sound boring BUT I wish we had the luxury of a big utility room in the middle of the house. Instead we have a washing machine in the basement. That was bad planning, all those stairs! Make your downstairs loo a show stopper. You can be a lot more creative in a smaller space that has one function. Paint your ceiling, walls, skirts and trims all the same colour – it will unify the space. The bigger the mirror, the bigger the impact. Our bedroom mirror is from Graham and Green and we bought the biggest one we could hang. It reflects the light, making our bedroom feel larger (and therefore a little more luxurious). IDEALIST: What has been the biggest challenge in the renovation? Not having an endless pot of pennies! We still have a to-do list. I think you’ll only make a mistake with builders once, a well recommended builder is worth its weight in gold. Interior wise, it’s been a challenge to try and incorporate everyone’s personalities into one well designed space. IDEALIST: What is the focal point of your home? To make our house feel like a home, a happy home. IDEALIST: What would you change about your home décor if you didn’t have kids? We would definitely live in an edgier, cooler part of town. Interior wise, I’d like to think we would spend a bit more money on our furniture, but we probably wouldn’t. Maybe we would be more Scandi, and I’d have a beautiful collection of cacti! IDEALIST: Which is your favourite room and why? Our kitchen, it’s were all the parties start and end. The kitchen is the hub of our home. We hang out there as a family, cook and eat and the children also do their homework at the kitchen table. It is however, on some occasions, my least favourite room too. I would like to extend, rebuild and redesign it. I would like a huge pantry and a central island unit on wheels, so it could be moved out of the way for dancing! IDEALIST: Which purchase for your home has been your favourite? We don’t have expensive furniture but some great pieces of art. I did an installation at Harvey Nichols for the launch of Another Magazine with Jefson Hack years ago, and afterwards we all got to keep a few of the art pieces – fashion campaigns printed onto huge sheets of acrylic – which have been scattered around the house and have a massive impact. You May Also Like
All photographs were taken by Georgia Gold – a London based Interiors and Food photographer. The post Inside a beautiful Crouch End Family Home appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/beautiful-crouch-end-family-home/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167482375133 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167482523444 This family home has undergone a recent transformation from being the owner’s family home whilst growing up until his parents, who were looking to downsize, decided to ‘swap’ homes with their son. This resulted in both parties fulfilling their needs with the younger family looking for space to grow into. Design studio Robinson van Noort provided the architectural and design expertise for this residential project with their trademark high level of bespoke attention. ChallengesAlongside the emotional attachments the families had, the original 17th Century property had grown with a Victorian addition and a 20th Century entrance. These resulted in a slightly muddled flow of the ground floor which led to needing to reconfigure the whole house. Starting PointThe driving force for the redesign was to utilise the south facing part of the house for the most frequently used areas: the kitchen, dining room, hall and drawing room. The old kitchen, located in the original part of the property, was then freed up to create a family TV/snug room, better suited to the smaller proportions. An adjoining wall was knocked through to incorporate the existing games room which transformed this otherwise tight space. Soft furnishings from Eleanor Pritchard, curtains from The Linen Shop and a Hay Mags sofa all add to the cosy, warm feel of this family room. Combining the Old and the NewCreating this friendly, open and playful space alongside the more formal rooms plays on the juxtaposition between the old and the new parts of the house, as does a new entrance hall that connects the west facing-courtyard to the east garden. This altered layout has vastly improved the circulation and flow of the ground floor whilst still being sympathetic to the period nature of the property with its contemporary 21st century additions. Flooring and FurnitureThe use of herringbone wooden flooring throughout the ground floor provides a timeless, cohesive feel interconnecting each room. From the rustic wooden table in the entrance hallway to the crisp sleek lines of the kitchen breakfast bar, wood has been used to reflect the style of each room in a very sensitive way. Bespoke joinery of the blue glass fronted display cabinet, handles for the coat cupboard and the upholstered coffee table/footstool were designed by Ali Robinson with high attention to detail and design. ColoursA mix of strong and subtle blues harmonises the home with added warmth from the wood and a clean, fresh element from white woodwork and other pieces. Glimpses of the striking Nuvole Cole and Son wallpaper from the Fornasetti Collection, can be seen through beautifully framed doorways into the formal dining room. LightingThe diverse yet complimentary lighting within each room is fascinating to have many different styles working together. There’s the 1970s three tiered yellow Murano glass chandelier, Nonia white and oak pendant lights in the kitchen and a Bocci 28d desk lamp in the snug. Perhaps it’s this mixing of styles, buildings and generations that creates the perfect home. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of the owners/Robinson van Noort studios. The post Mead House – Reconfiguring the Heart of the Home appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/mead-house-reconfiguring-heart-home/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167403310188 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167403417029 Whether you’re a plant lover, botanical challenged or feel your home and lifestyle aren’t suitable for plants, there are a growing number of solutions on the market to suit every need. The trend for indoor greenery certainly isn’t showing any signs of slowing down so we’ve rounded up a variety of options to keep your plants and your home looking great. HydroponicsHydroponics (growing plants in water) is ideal for those who are away from home for periods of time, short on space for plants or simply don’t have much gardening experience. Eliminating the need for soil is also beneficial for homes with pets or young children where plant pots can get knocked over and make a mess. In fact, plants grown hydroponically grow stronger and faster as the roots don’t have to search to find the water and nutrients. Optimus Garden is a smart vertical hydroponic garden that focuses on innovative design and efficient urban gardening. Up to nine plants can be grown simultaneously in the coloured casing and water levels and conditions can all be monitored through an app, providing a smart response to busy contemporary life. For further information visit Optimus Garden. PlantersVertical planters are perfect space savers as are plant hangers. Terrariums are perfect for creating a mini garden on a small scale with succulents and cacti so make ideal starter plants that need minimal care or watering. Window boxes suit all kinds of properties, whether its a collection of herbs for cooking or adding colour and greenery to a window they are really effective and easy to look after. Tropical plantsMany interior photos contain large tropical plants and they work well indoors for several reasons. Tropical plants add interest to an otherwise difficult area, can be used a way of screening or partitioning a room and survive well in warm, dry conditions. Ikea have a great range of plants and planters that add instant colour and freshness to a room. Aloe Vera, Areca palm and Calathea (prayer plant) are all plants that make a statement whilst being easy to look after too. Local Plant Centres and NurseriesPlant centres, nurseries and independent shops are all great places to source indoor plants. Usually, the staff in such shops are gardening experts so tap into their knowledge so explain what you are looking for and they should be able to advise you. Look for healthy looking plants when buying to give them the best start in their new home too. Plant Care, Maintenance and AccessoriesThe key to successfully maintaining your own indoor urban garden is getting to grips with the needs of the plants. Consider room temperature, how much light the plant will get and how much water it needs and then you’ll enjoy all the benefits plants bring to a home. Plant labels give the specific instructions required for each plant so keep them for future reference. Add in some stylish plant accessories such as baskets, metal or terracotta pots and a smart looking watering can and you’ll be well equipped to keep your plants looking their best. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of Optimus Graden The post Indoor urban gardening – solutions for all spaces and lifestyles appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/indoor-urban-gardening-solutions-spaces-lifestyles/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167367082898 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167367097544 Ethical design is so important in today’s world. The cork tree, for example, is a perfect example of sustainability. Only the bark is removed for commercial use, leaving the tree to continue to flourish and produce more cork. The use of cork has become increasingly popular again over the past years as more designers make use of the raw product in creatives and unusual ways. It is therefore comforting to find an emerging design brand with sustainability at its heart. SUGO Cork Rugs is a Portuguese brand who design and create beautiful floor coverings using cork. They are the only manufacturer in the world to produce this type of rug using the methods, materials and techniques in a unique way.
We met with the founder of SUGO, Susana Godinho, to find out what sustainability means to her. IDEALIST: What does sustainable design mean to you? Sustainable design for me is based on attitudes and practices which intentionally engage social and environmental issues, whilst recognizing the consequences of our decisions and actions. For me, it’s to focus on a responsible design by using sustainable materials, with the aim of reducing waste and inventing a pragmatic aesthetic that will meet tomorrow’s needs. Ethical DesignsIDEALIST: How is SUGO CORK RUGS a radical step forward for ethical design? We try to stay committed to our cause by creating a product that respects the environment from several perspectives, allied with good practices. We work closely with our local suppliers, using recycled textiles or natural raw fibers, such as pure wool or linen, along with the cork to create a fully rounded ethical solution. Our design signature uses graphic details or color blocks in a classic type of weaving with the insertion of the cork on the rugs, therefore, creating a unique and innovative product. Gathering all this together, we can offer the client not only a very special rug, but also a versatile design piece which can either be a classic rug or a more “cool” and colorful one.
Company GoalsIDEALIST: What are SUGO’s top 3 goals? The first of all is to become recognised internationally as a new brand of rugs. Next would be to work globally with the top international design offices and design stores. And the last, to grow and become a worldwide rug company known not only for cork rugs, but also for caring about sustainable issues.
Design InspirationsIDEALIST: What are your biggest design inspirations? Well, creativity comes naturally and you find it easier when you love what you create, keeping in mind the performance and functionality of the product during the making of it. Most of our inspiration comes from travelling, however further inspiration comes from observing objects such as tiles, fabrics, and focusing on the detail. People and different cultures are also always inspiring to observe and influence us in many ways. IDEALIST: Name your 3 favourite things about Portugal. I just love my little country. The more I travel, the more I like Portugal. Naming just 3 favourite things about Portugal is very hard to answer. However, my top three are the beauty and history found within the country, the kindness of the Portuguese people and the simple fact that it is a small, peaceful and quiet place on the Atlantic Ocean.
What’s On the HorizonIDEALIST: What new, exciting projects do you have on the horizon? This year was very exciting with the launch of the brand. We already have many projects in hand with some of the top architects and designers in Portugal. We recently started our internationalisation process, with punctual presences at international fairs such as London Design Fair. We hope that people will start to follow our progress, as there are a lot of new and exciting things coming up next year. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of SUGO Cork Rugs. The post Modern Heroes: SUGO Cork Rugs appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/sugo-cork-rugs/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167297209898 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167297297744 Eco-friendly houses are no longer characteristic only of people with a bit extreme lifestyle who want to live in the most ecological way possible. They often choose to live in a forest or other secluded areas that provide them with everything they need, as long as their habitat and life habits are purely natural. However, today it isn’t so uncommon to live in an eco-friendly house that doesn’t stand out from the others. In other words, it’s possible to live in a seemingly similar house as the ones in the neighborhood, which is at the same time different from them in many ways, being environmentally friendly. So, how to build a house that is eco-friendly in any possible way? They may be looking like any other house, but there are features in it you will definitely have to plan carefully and significant changes you’ll have to bring. Start from ScratchBuilding an eco-friendly house means making a carefully thought plan, so you don’t have to do adjustments after most of the work has been done. You should opt for an airtight or “passive home“. This type of home is incredibly energy efficient, which is an aspect of an eco-friendly home. They are built in the way that they don’t leak any air or heat, which happens with regular houses that have gaps or poor insulation. Passive homes keep the heat inside, which allows you to save a lot of energy and money for keeping your home warm. There is no wasting of the slightest amount of heat. This type of home is 3-8% more expensive at the initial building but in the long run, they cost far less as they significantly reduce the amount of wasted heat. And let’s not forget the other important thing – they help in reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Acquire Alternative Building MaterialsThe first material that comes to mind is – wood. If you worry about deforestation and ethical issues, you shouldn’t – as long as you know the right way to source this material, you will still be taking care of the environment. And how’s that? Well, when it comes to retaining heat, wood is 40% better than regular materials such as bricks or building blocks. So, you’ll still be able to give your contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Another thing that’s simply fantastic is the growing popularity of wooden prefabricated buildings in South Africa – they can easily be erected and move to another place in just a couple of weeks. If you’re looking for more alternative materials, try old newspapers, recycled denim, straw or wool – they can all be used for the insulation of your future home. Of course, testing for air tightness is still a must, as there could be some leaks. Use Renewable Energy SourcesOur Earth’s supply of fossil fuels isn’t infinite. And the media are constantly warning us of that. It’s not just about the environment anymore – it has also become an economic issue. Energy prices are rising, so a lot of people are starting to use renewable energy sources and trying to be self-sufficient. Solar panels are an obvious choice here, as they can be used to power both the light and electrical appliances in your home. Another type of solar panels is the one that stores the heat and then provides it when needed. Wind and hydropower depend on the area you’ve chosen to live in. If your home is going to be built on a higher windy ground, having a windmill is a perfect choice for you. The similar thing is with using hydropower – it’s best used if there’s a strong stream in the vicinity of your house or the climate brings frequent and heavy rains throughout the year. Renovate your Home and Replace old AppliancesWhen you’re building an eco-friendly home, it’s important to have high-quality materials, as well as all the things in your home, including appliances. Make your environmentally friendly house also a comfortable place to live – open-space rooms, wide windows with plantation shutters to get as much light as you can and new electrical appliances. There’s no need to try to save some money on old stuff – it will cost more to replace them later. The thing with old electrical appliances is that they spend more electricity than you would pay for new ones. Be Economical about your Water UsageIf you’re living in a rainy region, you could install a rainwater harvester and reduce the water consumption for your home and garden, and also by using premium hose reels in different lengths to minimize the water expenditure. If a composting toilet is too much of a trouble for you, then consider purchasing eco-friendly toilets that still help reduce the unnecessary water consumption, although not that much. Small tricks on saving water, such as taking a shower instead of a bath and closing the tap while brushing your teeth, are for you to study them once your home is built. You May Also Like
The post How To Build The Ultimate Eco-Friendly House appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/build-ultimate-eco-friendly-house/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167261715758 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167261870629 Sunlight from the large windows streams into this three bedroom Victorian apartment in north London. Refiguring and refurbishing this space and integrating a study-come-bedroom and snug/family room was the challenge embraced by design studio Robinson van Noort, London based designers of buildings, interiors and furniture. Let the Light InThe property’s greatest feature is the openness and light and this was the main area to work around whilst refiguring the space to fit in the extra room. By fitting a series of reclaimed 19th century partially glazed doors and screens the light flows effortlessly around the property. A clever internal window was added to the master bathroom with a roman blind for privacy above the headboard on the other side of the window. Glass has been used in other areas such as the Murano chandeliers in the main reception area and above the dining table drawing the eye to the property’s high ceilings. In the kitchen glass has been used in a more contemporary way with a blue glass splash back on one wall and a bespoke glass fronted display cabinet in polished black metal adding an industrial look. Mirror, MirrorMirrors, like the antique pine and gesso mirror above the fireplace, have a strong presence in this property helping to reflect the light and adding style and practicality. There are a mix of styles with the master bedroom hosting a 1950’s decorative brass framed Italian mirror and a modern full length mirror in the dressing area, whilst the master bathroom has twin mirrors above corresponding sinks in a luxury hotel feel. Design SolutionsThere are clever uses of space within the apartment. Behind the front door there is another large mirror with a simple shelf underneath, an otherwise unused area, and in the snug a desk has been integrated in the large storage wall. Technology, such as TVs are often a challenge to work with but in the reception room it is stored in the sourced and adapted Scandinavian cupboard. Smart StorageThe French chest of drawers in the master bedroom were also sourced by Robinson van Noort and the kitchen units were made by bespoke joiners, painted in Little Greene’s Basalt 221. Little Greene paints were used throughout the property: Frech Grey Dark 163 and French Grey Pale 161 in the hallway, kitchen, study and reception room, Rubine Ashes 234 in the master bedroom and Tusk 237 in the master bathroom. Blue Blood from Paint and Paper was used in the family bathroom. A Hint of MustardAgainst the backdrop of blues and greys the occasional splash of yellow really stands out. The Smith of Derby wall clock in the kitchen and the yellow roll top bath add an element of playfulness to the rooms as does the yellow chair in the study. A clever multi-functional home has been achieved in this property whilst keeping light flooding in, however now it’s mixed with sense of individuality, style and luxury. You May Also LikeAll photos courtesy of Alexander James The post Light and luxurious Belsize Park Gardens appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/light-luxurious-belsize-park-gardens/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167229266548 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167229703919 With the growing trend of using dark colours and details to create drama and interest within our homes, a similar statement look can also be achieved at the dining table. We love all this interstellar at The Idealist, so when we saw this new range from Diesel, we had to have it! Diesel Living with Italian brand Seletti, have joined supernatural forces to create a Cosmic Diner range available from We Interiors this Christmas. The collection reflects both classic and futuristic elements of life in space whilst exploring the art of the table and challenging the tradition of collectible items. From salt and pepper rocket grinders to meteorite glasses with additional pieces from Made and Habitat, we’ve complied our top ten items for an out of this world dining experience. Front & CentreDiesel Living with Seletti’s Starman vase takes centre stage on any table and is made from fine porcelain, £58. The Edna shade is a smoked glass pendant light shade evocative of the classic space suit helmet in the Starman vase (above). It works within all room schemes thanks to it’s elegant globe silhouette. £35 from Made.com Setting the TableBardo Black table runner. Regardless of the size or material of your dining table this woven runner brings texture and interest to the table and creates a dark backdrop. £15 from Habitat. Dishing OutMoon, Mars, Jupiter, Pluto and Callisto Dinner Plates replicating the planets and their respective colours and surfaces. These are bold and striking key pieces from Diesel Living at Seletti’s Cosmic Dining collection, from £42. Bask Set of 4 Round Felt Placemats in Charcoal. Placemats are an easy and affordable dining table update and very practical too. They add a natural texture whilst in keeping with the circular and planetary inspired theme. £14 for a set of four from Made. Newbury 16 piece cutlery set will catch your guests’ attention. It adds a playful element and ties together the different colours found in space with a distinctive metallic look. £160 from Made. Drinking InMeteorite glasses, made with textured glass inside and a smooth outside, have a warm amber colour adding interest and originality. Small £21, large £24.50 from Diesel living with Seletti. Adding Salt to Cosmic DinnerRocket salt and pepper grinders made from solid wood add a fun touch to any meal. £73.50 each from Diesel Living with Seletti. Finishing UpThis Greta Jug brings height and stripped back design to the table. Its clean lines in classic black stoneware means it is a very versatile piece at £25, Habitat. For a simple yet stylish platter, the round Merak at £30 is perfect. Made from powder coated aluminium it is designed to compliment the Greta Jug as featured above also from Habitat. The secret to building a bold yet cohesive look is to mix statement pieces alongside equally well-designed basics on a dark background. With a good foundation in place, the sky really is the limit of what you place with it resulting in a versatile look that is future proof. Diesel Living with Seletti items are available at WE Iteriors and on 0207 738 2424. Other pieces from Made and habitat. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of respective brands. The post All Set for an Out of this World Dining Experience appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/world-dining-experience/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167112860618 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167112958089 Think about your hallway. How does it look? Although this segue to your home can make a strong first impression, many people don’t make much of an effort to style their entryway. Entryways are the small, hallway-like entrance rooms found in many homes—also sometimes called mudrooms if you’re lucky enough to have a country pile! They serve as the greeter for all your guests and a functional spot to store things like shoes, jackets and keys. Hallways are small rooms, though, which can make them difficult to style. The goal is to find furniture and accessories that have the right shape and add function to the room. If you’re looking to give your entryway a makeover, try some of these tips. Your Hallway FunctionalitySince this is the last room you’ll see as you’re leaving and the first you’ll see when you get home, you should design it to serve your needs at those times. Hallways are a great place to add storage for things like jackets, keys, shoes, hats and more. To further enhance your hallway’s dressing room functionality, add a small bench or table where you can sit when you’re gearing up or winding down. You can get a little bit of both with this Avoriaz 2-drawer entry cabinet from Maisons du Monde. Its slim profile and gorgeous natural look make it a perfect entryway piece. If you need more seating, a storage bench like this one from Spice Counter is an elegant solution that provides added storage as well. Making the most of your hallway spaceHallways are generally pretty small, so you have to be careful not to overcrowd them. Look for space-saving furniture that fits the orientation of the room and provides more than one function. For example, if you have a long, thin hallway, you should get long and thin furniture. Other solution is to get wall hanging furniture, which will allow you to save some extra space. You can never have enough coat storage—especially when it’s mounted to the wall. These wall hooks from Habitat give you four more spots to hang your jackets or keys, plus a small shelf on top for smaller items. As messy as they get, drawers are a useful catch-all, especially when you’ve just walked into your home. This Bella side table from Loaf saves space while giving you a drawer and a small table top to hold a decorative piece. We know it’s designed for the bedroom, but it would look great in the hall with an antique phone on, we think! Not All BusinessAlthough your hallway should be functional, you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics to achieve that functionality. Make sure you add a few warm touches, such as a nice mirror and elegant lighting. Items like these not only add function to your entryway, they also make it more of a warm, welcoming entrance for you and your guests. Now that you’ve got some neutral colours filling your hallways, it’s the perfect time to pick a rug that pops to add some colour to the room. This blue and white runner from John Lewis is a good size for hallways and adds a splash of deep blue while complementing the other neutral colours in the room. Lighting is an important part of creating a warm, welcoming hallway that makes a statement. Top your side table off with this small tripod table lamp from Habitat. The white lamp shade and neutral wood legs make the perfect complement to the other pieces in the room. You May Also Like
All photos courtesy of respective brands. The post Making an Entrance: How to Style Your Hall appeared first on The Idealist. from The Idealist https://www.theidealist.com/making-entrance-style-hall/ from The Idealist Magazine https://theidealistmagazine.tumblr.com/post/167083112323 via Tumblr https://spencerthorpe.tumblr.com/post/167084611744 |
AuthorAn outdoor enthusiast from Indianapolis, IN. I love spending time with family, friends, and travelling. Love all types of music. Work hard Monday-Friday, spend my off time on hiking trails. ArchivesCategories |