I’m breaking the get the look fast I’ve been on with this incredible bedroom that I kind of, sort of am dying to make my own. Furry throw, oodles of pillows, with a sophisticated yet fun vibe? Feel free to count me in twice!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11

As a general rule of thumb, I consider myself to be a city girl. Bright lights, big city, and all that jazz. But when I stumble upon homes the likes of this one, I begin to question my city girl ways. Land as far as the eye can see, waves crashing against the shore in the distance, and an outdoor shower have more of an effect on me than I’ve been willing to let on. If only there were a way to combine the two… (this is when boat loads of money would come in handy.)

Casa Sanchia via Coco + Kelley

Our condo has been sorely neglected the past few months, simply due to other priorities. As a bit of an organizational freak by nature, it’s admittedly slowly been killing me. At one point I actually uttered “I’m most excited to organize my closet as soon as this damn exam is over!*” I’ve been forced to turn a blind eye to our overflowing closets and dusty baseboards for days on end and I’m so thrilled to now have the time to tackle the silly little nothings that have been keeping me awake at night. Issues? Most likely. But a spic & span, crisp & clean home is one that simply makes me inordinately happy. So until I actually get down to scrubbing those baseboards and donating half of my closet, I’ll live vicariously through gorgeous images of stunning (clean! organized!) homes, much like these ones right here.

Images from: Lonny Magazine | Photographed by: Patrick Cline

*Thank you to everyone who tweeted, commented and emailed positive vibes and good luck wishes the other day! How annoying was I the last few weeks?! I can’t even begin to tell you how happy I am that those bad boys are behind me (well, 2 out of 3 anyway.) To be completely honest, I’m not entirely sure how well I did. They were pretty brutal, and not at all what I was expecting. You know what’s worse than dirty homes? Multiple choice questions where all of the answers are right, and you have to select the one that’s MOST right. I curse those questions! I officially find out in twelve weeks if I’m that much closer to becoming a licensed designer. And now, back to lark & linens regular posting schedule – and no more whining, I swear.

found: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

They’re the perfect spot to organize and showcase your dishes and found treasures, while giving your kitchen some interest. I can’t imagine many things more satisfying than a set of well designed open shelves in the kitchen.

Ok, I lied. The fact that Starbucks Christmas cups are out is slightly more satisfying. That, and fluffy puppies. Starbucks Christmas cups, fluffy puppies and then open shelving displaying pretty kitchen things. In that order.

found here via 

Lately I’ve been drawn to overtly masculine homes (as seen here). I find comfort in the dark and moody spaces that are such a dire contrast from the light and bright ones I generally design. With the temperatures quickly plummeting, I love that these rooms embody the perfect transitional space between the long, warm days of summer and the short, crisp days of fall. This one in particular draws you in and begs you to curl up with a blanket and an oversized cup of spiked apple cider. And it doesn’t hurt that any male counterparts would likely feel compelled to join you.

found here

Whoever said bigger is better clearly has not set their sights on this place. Between the Moroccan inspired tile floors, the collection of stunning white pottery and the perfectly teeny bathroom sink I think I would be more than happy here. A perfect example of quality over quantity.

found here 

…excuse me while I pick my jaw up off the floor.

found here via  

What was once a 1,830 square foot print shop has been transformed into a perfectly girly living space that is equally suitable for any male counterparts. Located in the 20th arrondissement in Paris (which, lets face it, automatically makes it all that more appealing), designer Roxane Beïs has transformed the space into a home that supports all of the basic needs in the simplest and most beautiful manner. 

found here, here, here, here & here

found here

Check out Courtney Cox’s recently renovated Malibu home. Working in collaboration with her architect and interior designer, she has successfully created a beautiful beach home that, while seemingly perfect, just begs to be lived in and enjoyed (which is, really, the best combination: pretty and functional at the same time). And as a note to myself: add “have a built-in banquette/fire pit overlooking the beach” to my bucket list. 

found here 

How cool is this cabin? Located deep in the woods in Sweden (of course!) it almost doesn’t even look real.

found here 

I think that this home speaks for itself, and it’s not because I’m still not feeling 100%, it just really does. I do, however, think that mimosas on this particular patio, by this particular pool (and in South Africa no less) is just what my body needs to get itself together though. Who’s with me?!

found 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

While perusing the interwebs for inspiration for an upcoming project (more details in the coming days), I couldn’t help but drool a little over this collection of black and white stripes. I think it’s safe to say that I will never tire of stripes. Ever.

images found here 

I’ve seen snippets of Emma’s home on her blog throughout the past and I knew that it was something special. Seeing the entire thing in one place on design*sponge a little while back reaffirmed just that. This old Victorian Toronto home (located in the up and coming Parkdale) has been transformed into what can only be described as pure and utter perfection. Lived in, loved and no detail left unthought of. 

found here

I’ve seen little snippets and clipets (it’s a word) of this amazing home making its way through the blogosphere lately, but I was blown away when I finally found the original source (and thus the remaining images). The spaces feel lived in and loved, unexpected and refreshing, yet classy and sophisticated at the same time. This is definitely a place that I, for one, would love to call home.

ps. oh, just me again, being pesty and reminding you about the pi’lo giveaway. It’s a good one and you should just go ahead and click here. There are only a few days left!

found here

I generally choose which spaces to showcase on lark + linen based on the heart palpitations that occur when I first stumble upon them. This one in particular made my heart extra happy. While I’m not sure that I, personally, would be able to live in a space this bright and white, I can’t help but be drawn to the freshness of it all. The hugely beautiful artwork and interesting little artefacts sprinkled throughout really stand out in a place like this. The white walls accentuated by the small doses of colour can’t help but remind me of a new season. But perhaps I just have spring on the mind.

found via pink to green, a merry mishap, lolalina

Happy St. Patrick’s day friends! While I’m not technically irish (well, not to my knowledge; perhaps it’s there somewhere in my lineage), I do enjoy an Irish token on occasion. These tokens include but are not limited to beer, lush greenery and thick accents. I figure, what better way to celebrate than with a handful of green-inspired spaces. Amiright?! I thought so. Now go out and enjoy yourselves some green beer (which may or may not be even better than green spaces. But I’m an interior designer so don’t tell anyone that I just said that).

I’m always intrigued on how different designers approach a space and how they decide which direction to go in. Generally, I begin with one main statement piece and design the rest of the space accordingly. Usually, the moment I see that piece I have an immediate idea in my mind on what should happen with it. That being said, there are so many directions that you could pursue with that one item, and it’s often interesting to think of alternative solutions.

I thought that it would be fun to introduce a new feature on lark + linen called one piece, two looks. Every once in a while I will present to you a single item and design two drastically different looks around that piece.

 This week, I’ve settled on my victim: the ever so popular, ever so beautiful, ever so wildly wonderful Paul Smith Rug. With its bold pattern and saturated hues, I resolved that there were two main directions that I could go in:

My automatic response is to embrace the playfulness of the piece and match it with other fun, bold items, all the while keeping the space feeling somewhat sophisticated with the use of a beautifully designed lamp and Eames chair. I’ve also began to ground the space with the use of fun, adjustable black side tables and black accents.

Alternatively, I could let the rug do the talking, and design a beautiful space filled with class and sophistication by using clean lines and neutral elements that complement the rug. The solution that I came up with is prim and pretty, perfect for a single female who wears heels and entertains often (that’s what I picture, so let’s just go with it!)

So take a look!

paul smith rug found via the rug company
the rest of the furniture found via: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

I’d love to know, which do you prefer? And as an aside, if there are any items you’d like me to incorporate into this series, please feel free to shoot me an e-mail. I would be happy to design two spaces based on a piece of your chosing.

found via Alexandra Campbell & Remodelista

Today just so happens to be the coldest day we’ve had to experience so far this winter and as a result my bones are literally chilled all the way into their very centres. I would love to spend the day in one of these concrete bathtubs, filled to the brim with piping hot water in order to rectify this. Since this is not an option at the moment, please excuse me while I peruse our office to find some suitable layers as an alternative.

found via Ralph Lauren

Every once in a while you just need a little bit of retail therapy. Although I have an affinity for shopping, my true passion lies within the decor of the stores themselves. Please tell me I’m not alone in this thought.

This Parisienne Ralph Lauren retail space is one of the prettiest stores I’ve set my sights on in a while. With a perfect blend of masculine and feminine elements, incredible mouldings and attention to minute details (would you please look at those floors), I could definitely spend my afternoon within these walls. And when it all gets to be too much, I could rest my tired feet at the courtyard restaurant appropriately named Ralph. Oh Paris, the things you do to me.

found via Country Living

Generally, a place like this wouldn’t hold my attention for long. It’s cute. It’s cozy. It’s very, very country… But at this moment? Things are a little different. There’s nothing that sounds more appealing to me than packing up and getting away for a few days with just my family and a few close friends. On Christmas eve we’d toboggan and snow shoe while the turkey cooks in the oven and steams up the windows. On Christmas day, it would snow. Big fat snowflakes. We would sit in our pyjamas with cups of hot coco as we open our stockings. We would take multiple naps and drink champagne in the afternoon. All afternoon. Right now, this country cottage in the middle of nowhere, with its too small dining table for us to crowd around, grandma observing from the rocking chair, it’s looking pretty great.

found via Skona Hem

To me, this house is the perfect amount of everything. One part Christmas, one part class, and you know that the little girls who live here wear peacoats and pigtails, possibly even sport little british accents (even though I’m pretty sure this house is in Sweden). The place feels lived in and loved while still maintaining a sense of beauty and museum-like quality. I love how the Christmas decorations are prominent, yet tasteful as not to scream “Christmas threw up in here!” (not to say that I don’t enjoy some Christmas throw up as well). Perfection, in my books.

post script: I never thought I’d speak about throw up on my blog, but there I go! Three times.

After much anticipation, Danielle’s bedroom is finally done! Take a look at what we started with when we began this project a few months ago: a drab space with not much personality. Considering that a girl with oodles of said personality inhabits this space, it just did not seem fitting. I’m just adding the finishing touches to the after pictures - so make sure to check back in a little while to see what was done!

found via tumblr, unknown, the beautiful soup

Things have taken a turn for the omg-I-can’t-believe-how-much-I-have-to-do-right-now. So please enjoy these beautiful spaces, their soaring high cathedral ceilings and crisp white walls in my absence.

found via Desire to Inspire

If I ever disappear, your best bet is to check for me here. In Madrid. In this fantastic apartment. Between the white walls, the pops of colour, the unexpected wallpaper and the fun hangy-baubles-of-sorts, I can’t help but be sucked into these images. My only concern is the duvet on the bed; it’s definitely not fluffy enough for my liking. I would have to bring my own, but minor details I suppose.

found via everything fab, lolita, emmas design blogg & simply grove

From glam, to rustic, to outdoors (?), to industrial chic (don’t you love the terms us designers come up with), I always gravitate towards images of a good soaker tub. It’s a necessity to rid yourself of a hard days work, to begin a romantic evening out, or, and let’s be frank here, to spend your friday evening in.

found via shappacherwhite, style files, unknown, decor mag

Simple, elegant, and adds a little touch of fun and whimsy to any space. The idea of the chalkboard wall is especially great for those of the likes of me who have trouble making any permanent decisions. With new ideas constantly evolving it’s difficult to settle on one, knowing you may find something better tomorrow! Well, a chalkboard wall is interchangeable, evolving and all you need is some creativity, and a little chalk.

Disclaimer: I should note that I’m very good at making decisions for other people, but when it’s my own space? Well it’s hard!! I totally get why people hire interior designers.

found via Emmas Design Blogg via Skona Hem 

The perfect place to spend the holidays, in my opinion. I wouldn’t mind curling up with a good book amongst any or all of those furry throws. I’m also picturing family, friends, a day of snow shoeing followed by sweat pants (apparently you can get cashmere sweats if you want to be fancy-like), and bottomless glasses of champagne. With that owl throw pillow, I could surely get my dad on board.

found via Unknown & Sacramento Street

Some pretty bedrooms for your Thursday morning.

ps. If you haven’t voted yet, or if you would like to vote again, please click here to help lark + linen out! The good news? Only two more days of me bugging you guys like this! I appreciate it guys. Your tweets and retweets and facebook posts and votes mean more to me than you know.

found via haute design via elle uk

No sooner did it seem that October left us and winter reared its ugly head. (Wait. One sec. November? Seriously?! When. When did this happen!?) Now that the weather is beginning to call for wool jackets and fingerless gloves (because lets face it, those are secretly cool), I find myself craving the jewel tones and deep rich colours of spaces like this. I’m also loving the thick, chunky, oversized masculine lines set against the gilded mirrors and dainty mouldings.  And the light fixtures above the dining room table? I die. Perfection.

ps. this is me being annoying until friday. If you get the chance, check out Design Refuge’s October challenge, and vote! I’ve made the final cut and would be so honoured. Thanks noodles <3

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found via Alexandra Campbell via The Contemporist

It’s taken Brazilian architect Guilherme Torres no less than 10 years to complete his personal loft (something I worry about when having to decorate my future home. Being faced with so many amazing choices on a daily basis, how are you ever supposed to decide?!) During the process, he was faced with a plethora of issues that one must deal with when working with an older building; one such issue being wiring and cabling. With the use of strategically placed surface mounted electrical conduit he was able to deal with the additional necessary electrical affairs needed for a modern day lifestyle, while maintaining a certain aesthetic and a modest budget. I’m personally loving the idea of letting it all hang out. It could almost be said that the perfectly placed conduit eliminates the need for any artwork! I mean really, it could very well be considered a work of art in itself.

found via Design is Mine, Aimee Herring, Style Files & unknown

I’m loving the use of materials used to create these unusual headboards. Whether it’s pressed tin, bamboo, an old barn door, or simply painted mdf, it just goes to show you that there are no bounds! Put your creative cap on, and go nuts! (Is there such thing as a creative cap? I’m thinking I just coined that term.)

found via Munge Leung

Ever since hearing about the opening of Ame just off of King st, downtown Toronto, I’ve been itching to go. With an extensive cocktail list, a central location and quite the delicious sounding sushi menu, it would be the perfect place to meet your friends for a drink or two after work. Plus, the space feels like South Carolina country bar meets Japan meets industrial modern. I’m loving the fusion of the rustic elements with the kimono fabric. And did you see the washroom? You may not know this, but I judge a place based on its washroom. You can’t leave those details out!

found via Stuart McIntyre

Something a little different around these here parts. This house isn’t one that I would tend to be drawn to at first glance, but I thought I’d go a little crazy – let my hair down, if you will. No?

I believe I’m simply drawn to the eclectic feel of this space as it’s something a little out of my comfort zone. Photographer Stuart McIntyre has successfully captured the essence of this home. I’m convinced that the main element keeping these spaces together as a whole is the series of incredible, yet vastly different art that is hung within each room. The colours are mismatched, the furniture is contrasting in style, and the wallpaper is unexpected, yet it all works so perfectly, so seamlessly together.

found via The House Hotel

In my few years of life, I’ve been fortunate enough to have done a small amount of travelling. While I absolutely love it and would never turn down the opportunity to go anywhere, the thought of going to Istanbul was never really one that crossed my mind. Not until now, that is. Designed by Autoban, this four storey mansion (originally built in 1890) has recently been transformed into this incredible hotel, fit for a queen, if I do say so myself. The walls. The ceiling. Omygod the floor! Please excuse me a moment, I’m drooling.

found via Two Tall Blondes via D Magazine

This house had me stopped dead in my tracks when I stumbled upon it the other day. As you may have noticed (if it wasn’t glaringly obvious), I generally tend to be drawn to crisp, clean, white spaces. The deep, dark colours and rich textures of this home, however, have me rethinking my previous case of white-syndrome. Of course, it helps that there are little pops of it sprinkled throughout.

post summary: I have a serious case of house envy.

found via Design Therapy via Boutique Homes

Boutique Homes is a website I happened to stumble upon recently, and I’m so glad that I did. Their aim is to provide incredible vacation home rentals; many of which are created by some pretty notable and talented architects. This home in particular is designed as the perfect transitional space for the days that linger between summer and fall. I wouldn’t mind curling up with a book and a blanket in any of the rich, charcoal gray and chocolate-brown spaces, wrapped up to protect myself from the coolness of the morning. Yet, when the sun makes an appearance and the temperature rises, I could just as easily sit outside to enjoy a light lunch and take in the expansive views. 

found via unknown, greige & coco + kelley

I’m currently loving the idea of a ladder in a kitchen. Not only is it a practical way to make use of that otherwise wasted ceiling space, it also looks so dreamy and adds such a fun little element to the space.

found via My Ideal Home

We’re off to a rough start this morning here on lark + linen. The majority of my photos were mistakenly deleted from this weekend (womps). My brilliant friend is helping me in their recovery, so for now, please accept this pretty view as a place holder.

update: alas, my photos could not be recovered without spending a silly amount on some downloadable program. Does anyone know any other way? I’d love to hear it.

all images found via Burdifilek

A portion of my family (both immediate and extended) works within the wine industry. You could say these sort of things run in our blood. Given the amount of wine we consume at all our family gatherings, this may actually be true. Growing up, wine was always readily available to my brother and I. My parents wanted us to acquire a taste for it, but I never really did enjoy its tartness. Not until recently, that is. Oh, how I was missing out.

 That said, I’ve toured many a winery in my day. There are an incredible amount of beautiful wineries sprinkled throughout Southern Ontario, but Stratus? It’s a little different. I’ve had the pleasure of frequenting it on multiple occasions, and each time I’m in awe. There’s just something about it. Perhaps it’s the warmth of the wood contrasting against the coldness of the concrete. The juxtaposition of the pin straight lines next to the silhouette of the bottle. Or maybe it’s simply the effortlessness of this particular winery, different from what one would expect upon entering. Whatever it is, the designers have done an amazing job.

It seems as though the weather has gotten a little cooler, a little grayer. Fall is undoubtedly on its way and on its coattails it’s bringing work that took a backseat and allowed us to breathe a little easier this past summer. Things are busy (understatement) and during the little moments I’ve managed to sneak to myself (necessary), I’ve found myself seeking solace in these perfectly worn in rooms.

found via unkown & the beautiful soup

Is anyone else having as much difficulty as I am wrapping their head around the fact that we are now, officially, in September? I don’t understand when or how this happened, but it did! While we’re still battling quite the heat wave here in Toronto, I know that our warm days are numbered.

Here are two bedrooms that may help us transition into the cooler, crisper days of fall. 

found via unknown & The Style Files

And for your Tuesday morning, I present to you another McLean Quinlan. Great. Big. Sigh.

images found via McLean Quinlan

One of the perks to working for the firm that I happen to be employed by is the incredible lunches we get to experience. Birthdays, goodbyes, friday afternoons or new hair dos… we like to celebrate. We like to eat!

We generally make our way out to the streets of Toronto and meander until we stumble upon something that fits the mood for the afternoon. Yesterday, we happened to venture on over to Brasaii for a co-workers belated birthday.

The food was tasty, but the space is what got me. With soaring ceilings, brick walls, wooden joists and original columns, the restaurant is luxurious, yet cozy, without being the least bit stuffy. The Design Agency, a Toronto based design firm, has done a wonderful job at melting industrial and traditional design together seamlessly with the mix of pottery barn lamps & neon artwork.  Perfection!

found via Brasaii

A sweet little cottage retreat for your viewing (and daydreaming) pleasures.

found via Two Tall Blondes via The New York Times

I’m going to make a prediction, here and now. Colourful, Moroccan inspired floor tiles are going to be the next big thing in this little industry we’ve got going on here. I’ve just begun to notice them more and more and I’ve already amassed quite the collection of inspirational images. So many that I will probably split this into two separate posts, to keep you on your toes and all.

Beautiful. I love how the rest of the spaces are kept clean and simple, allowing the tiles to really pop and make the statement they were born to make.

images found via Adriano Bacchella, Haute Design, Oliveaux

Munge Leung, a Toronto based interior design firm, has successfully made their mark on many, many incredible projects. This 7,300 square foot ravine house in particular really caught my eye. Is it just me, or does it kind of make you want to become some sort of bachelor (bachelorette) and host a bunch of parties with tall models. No? Just me? Well then…

all images found via Munge Leung

This may be my favourite house to date (and that’s a tall order to fill!) I stumbled across the portfolio of McLean Quinlan not too long ago and quickly got in touch with the architect. The work is beyond incredible, and I just had to share it. (As an aside, if you’d like to repost their work, shoot Kate Quilan a quick e-mail for permission. She’s very sweet and gracious!)

As a UK-based architectural firm, they seem to have a knack for blending old and new seamlessly into a space that is both incredibly beautiful and functional.

Stow-on-the-wold is an old barn converted into an amazing countryside house. With four kids and many friends occupying this home, the spaces had to be usable, abusable and still aesthetically pleasing. The juxtaposition of the worn wood, rustic stone facade, and comfortable furniture allow the rooms to feel lived in and unstuffy, while the oversized chandeliers, huge glass doors and glossy white floors maintain that sleek and sexy, contemporary feel. Take a look for yourself! 

 found via McClean Quinlan

Here’s a sneak peek at a project I’ve recently been working on. Danielle is a vibrant young professional who works in the health and fitness industry. Constantly on the go, working in a fast paced, high energy environment, she has requested that I transform her neutral bedroom into a fresh, fun one that really showcases her personality, yet lets her relax when the day ends. We decided on a colour palette of soft greys, a vibrant coral and a fresh teal. Since Danielle is on a limited budget (after recently graduating University), we figured we would re-use her bed and dresser, which are in great shape, and just do a simple refresh on the rest of the space, only splurging on the items that we both fall in love with; the ones she will be able to keep forever. I’ll be sure to update you as the project progresses, complete with before and after pictures, and a source list! Stay tuned. (I’ve always wanted to say that!)

And here’s a quick sketch that I whipped up for her to really get a feel for her future space

I’ve been collecting images of inspiration boards over the past few months and haven’t even really noticed until sifting through my files the other day. My subconcious is all over them!  Take note of the first one, the designer used binder clips to hang each image. So creative!

 found via William Waldron, Greige, Polly Wreford & Style Files 

With my vacation approaching in just a few short weeks, I can’t help but be drawn to a few incredibly beautiful, perfectly designed, immaculate retreats.

Amangiri in particular has really caught my eye. Located in Utah, practically in the middle of the desert, it isn’t the type of location you would think you’d typically want to get away to, until you check out these views.  

The hotel and spa have been designed to blend into their landscape with colour, materials, texture and scale, as to not disturb their surroundings. It’s incredible! Where do I sign up?

found via Alexandra Campbell via Amangiri

I’m back to work today, but I’m still feeling a little under the weather. I’m thinking I could probably nurse myself back to health much quicker if I could spend my time in one of these beds!

found via Black Eiffel, Destined to Design & Weheartit

Keeping in tune with all things summer (this seems fitting with this heat wave that doesn’t seem to want to let up), take a look at this incredible beach house designed by Murdock Young Architects. I wouldn’t mind getting away and spending the summer here, would you?!

The crisp white spaces, the sizable cathedral ceilings and the natural light pouring into each room are like a breath of fresh air.

all images found via Mudock Young

Barn doors. I’m loving this approach to an entry! It works especially well when there is a lack of space for a standard door to swing open. The oversized, unanticipated, rustic boldness of the following images make my eyes happy. They’re pieces of art in themselves and they truly make these rooms pop!

images found via Simply Grove, Style Files, Etc. 

Nikole Herriott from Forty-Sixth at Grace is a fellow Toronto designer whose apartment (and shoppe) I’ve just recently stumbled upon. Her place, a mere 390 square feet, is so sweet and well put together and I just had to share it. If you get a moment, check out her shoppe, Herriott Grace, as well. All of the items are incredible! This lady certainly has an eye for design.

all images found via Design Sponge

My roommate and I moved out of our parents nests and into a place of our very own a year and a half ago. In our very first class of our second year of University, we were told to partner up for a semester long group project. I quickly scoured the classroom for someone who looked as if they were somewhat sane (I went to an art school), spotted her from across the room and sheepishly walked up to her like a third grader and asked her to be my friend. Basically. We hit it off immediately and the rest is history! (We also got an A on that project. I’m just saying).

I’ve been blessed with a wonderful roommate who will bake cookies with me at any given moment (literally), and who likes tea almost as much as I do. On occasion, you may mistake us for an elderly couple while we sip our tea and watch The Young and the Restless (earlier this year we also seriously considered taking up knitting – I’m not joking).

With that said, I wanted to share with you another piece of my portfolio (yay!). Our apartment. I lucked out and scored a roommate who’s as passionate about interiors and design as I am. We were (and unfortunately still are, sigh) both on pretty strict budgets and we really had to watch our pennies. We were careful with our purchases, found some incredible deals (our couch was a $250 Craigslist find), and only splurged on the pieces that we just couldn’t live without.

There isn’t much else to say about this A-frame house designed by William O’Brien Jr. Perfection.

found via William O’Brien Jr.

all images found via Desire to Inspire via M. Elle

I always thought of myself as more of a city girl than anything else. But this farmhouse has me re-thinking all of my previous dreams! The mother-daughter design team, M. Elle, have done an incredible china job making the space feel warm and inviting, yet not too country. I’m impressed.

Some beautiful, raw, wood floors for your Tuesday afternoon.

found via This is Glamorous

This rendering of a library in Stockholm gives me a little bit of acrophobia… But what an interesting concept!

 found via Stumble Upon

Take a look at the Recess Yogurt Bar & Café in New York. Designed by Scalar Architecture, the LED ceiling changes colour, there are little yogurt holders that come out of the wall, and you get to enjoy your treat while lounging on vintage Eames chairs! The entire space is seamless in its design where the walls turn into the floor, and the floor transforms into a bar. I love that it isn’t what you would typically expect from a Yogurt store. Well played, Scalar.

all images found via The Contemporary Design via Interior Design

Take a look at this fantastically girly Palm Springs home designed by New York based designer Moises Esquenazi.

all images found via Moises Esquenazi

I’m beginning to notice a new trend as of late: neutral spaces with a neon accent. I kind of like it! I think I could get on board, given the right space, of course.

found via Desire to Inspire (images 1 & 2), Design is Mine, unknown (images 4 & 5)

I thought I’d do a bit of a follow-up on executive chef Brad Moore’s School Bakery & Café since it was such an interesting concept and a wonderful experience (that could have been the company though - I roll with good people. I’m just saying. Also, can I pull off that last sentence? I didn’t think so. Carrying on.) Every detail was well thought out and perfectly executed. The menus are presented to you on little clipboards, the 21 schoolhouse clocks mounted on the wall are all set to 3:30 (everyone’s favourite part of the school day – naturally), and the centre piece of each table is an apple set on a stainless steel coaster. The brick walls are covered in chalkboards with sayings like “please don’t feed the models”, there is hopscotch painted on the floor in front of the washroom and the kitchen is refered to as detention (the staff is then refered to as the faculty, of course). When they cater to private parties, the space transforms into private school, and on sunday, well, it’s sunday school of course!

all images found vis Design Lines & School Bakery and Café

Take a look at the Melbourne café Capital Kitchen. As you may have figured out by now, I’m a sucker for all things neutral. I would love to meet my girlfriends here for a latte or two!

found via Apartment Therapy

Sigh. I can’t wait until I get my hands on a suitable project where I can paint the floors a high gloss white. That may be a weird thing for someone to get excited about… but look how pretty!!

all images found via Greige

A little office inspiration to start your work week off on the right foot. I’m loving the organized chaos.

found via unknown

Take a look at Quebec based Architectural firm Lemaymichaud’s office. The seamless blend of old and new makes the space feel modern, but not museum-like. The firm is a well established Canadian company that currently has two spaces. One is situated in an old restored bank in Quebec City, and the other in a historic building in Montreal. Both of them are incredible!

all images found via The Contemporist via Lemaymichaud

Seesaw, an incredibly talented graphic design agency based in Scottsdale, Arizona, recently shared pictures of their new office space on their blog. I’m in awe.

It went from this:

To this:

This wall was done with tape & grey paint. Incredible.
all images found via Seesaw Design
 

I’m in love with their work. It’s taking all of my might to not crumble and buy these amazing letterpress thank you cards. They make my heart happy.

found via Seesaw Shoppe

Take a look at the recently opened Pantone Hotel in Brussels. The entire space is saturated in white, with pops of colour here and there. Each room is based on a different colour scheme and upon check-in, you are able to select your room based on your current mood (tranquil, energetic…) How cool is that?!

Apparently the bar menu is Pantone* inspired with drinks such as Pink Champagne, and Daiquiri Green cocktails.  The hotel also provides you with Pantone bicycles that you can borrow to see the city, Pantone coffee mugs, and check out the room key-rings!

all images found via Pantone Hotel & The Lil Bee

*Pantone is a set of standard colours generally used within Graphic Design or Advertising. Each colour has its own series of numbers to ensure that the colour on your monitor matches the colour you actually desire once it is printed.

Next month’s issue of Elle Decor features Meg Ryan’s home in Martha’s Vineyard. It’s oh-so-dreamy! If my Cape Town dreams don’t work out, perhaps I’ll go knock on Meg’s door (we’re tight like that).

I would put money on the fact that the blogosphere will be bombarded with these images, but I can’t help myself. Here are a few sneak-peaks.

all images found via Elle Decor & Delight by Design

This wallpaper is killing me! I want it everywhere. I can’t for the life of me figure out where it came from though. If there are any wallpaper fairies out there who can help a girl out, please let me know.

found via Sally Steponkus

I tend to be drawn to soft hues, and bright white interiors and so far that seems to be the sort of spaces I’ve been sharing here. I thought I’d go a little crazy on this monday afternoon and switch it up with a couple of colourful rooms that are just as cozy and inviting.

found via Unknown, Fashion Layne & Coco + Kelley

We recently took on a mini powder room renovation project at my dad’s place. I should say, my step-mom recently took on a mini powder room renovation project. The woman is a miracle worker! She did it all herself. Flooring, drywall, wallpaper… It always amazes me how much she is capable of, and in such a short period of time.

I did impart a few of my interior design abilities on the project and I thought it would be fun to share it with you. I want to go ahead and say that I cannot take all the credit, I merely selected the wallpaper, gave my two cents about accent colours, tossed around a couple of side-table-like ideas and my step-mom did the rest. I’m extremely happy with the results – she did an incredible job in shanghai!

I believe that the most interesting designs are the ones that break conventional rules. Whoever said that you shouldn’t use a bold graphic pattern in a small space. Do it! Go big or go home my friends. With that in mind, keep the rest of the space subdued and let the wallcovering do the talking.

note: If you’d like to use my images for any reason, please go ahead, I just ask that you link back to me. Thanks!

Ahh. This kitchen. Brilliant! It’s a small, but mighty space. I love the idea of a neutral kitchen with a hint of sparkle, and a pop of colour on the ceiling. The best part? As your taste changes, you could easily switch out the coloured ceiling which would completely change the entire feel of the space. Maybe aqua for the summer, a deep ochre for the fall, a little aubergine for the cold winter months… Who needs seasonal throw pillows when you could have a seasonal kitchen ceiling! My boyfriend is for sure rolling his eyes at me right now. Oh the things I have planned for us…

found via House & Home

side note: There are a few companies that carry the stainless steel hexagon mosaic tile (seen as the backsplash above), but if you’re looking for it, check Cercan-Tile. I know for sure they have it. I’ve had a little sample of it on my desk for the past year, just waiting for the perfect opportunity to use it.

It’s still cold and rainy here in Toronto.  In Jacquelyn-land that means it’s absolutely freezing and I may lose my toes and slash or the tips of my fingers. I’ve been known to exaggerate a little bit okay a lot, but carrying on. I would love to cuddle up in this nook all day with a book and a cup of tea.

unknown source

These tiles! They just make my eyes happy. I haven’t been able to find them in an application yet but as soon as I do I will be sure to share it! They’re called the SomerTile Square Lantern in white and you can get them at Overstock.com for about $8.00 a square foot. Oh I would tile my life with these babies. And I don’t even care that they like, totally stole it right out of my header.

found via Overstock

This morning was one of those whirl-wind mornings where nothing went right (and I should note – it’s only 9:45). I turned my alarm off instead of pushing snooze, I ran out of bobby pins when I tried to put my hair up in a frenzy, and that girl with the attitude on the subway? You know, the one who feels it’s absolutely necessary to push her way to the front of the platform, weasel her way so that she’s standing right in front of you (so that her stray hairs are almost tickling your nose), and once the train comes, decides to get on and then stop right at the entrance because she feels claustrophobic within the train, making everyone have to squish around her to get through the door? Yeah. You know the one. I mumbled something under my breath and then stopped and thought about something that I heard the other day: every second you spend upset is one less second you will have to be happy.

So here I am, choosing happy! But please excuse me while I get my life organized and go out on an office tea run.  
  

found via Decor8 via Anita Kaushal

Oh the things I would do to spend my summer here, in this amazing house on the beach in Cape Town, South Africa.

all images found via Taverne Agency and photographed by Alexander van Berge

This is how I envision my next place. A well-loved space decorated in soft greys, and pops of pink! I think that I may have a slight obsession with sparkling chandeliers in unlikely places as well. Now if I could only convince my boyfriend that pink is totally manly…

Also, I’m pretty sure I spy a pink refrigerator. It’s mind-blowing, admit it!

I have a huge folder with inspirational images on my computer. I guess that was what fueled this blog; I needed somewhere to put them! I don’t want to selfishly hoard them away any longer. They deserve their chance to be seen. Along my blog travels, I come across images of incredible interior spaces many times daily; ones that make my heart go pitter patter. But this one? This has been my favourite since the beginning. I hate to use the word “swoon” but I just cannot think of a better word to accurately depict how this space makes me feel. The casual elegance. It is amazing! Swooooon.

I found this image almost a year ago now, and cannot for the life of me remember where. If anyone knows where it’s from, please let me know. I would like to give credit where credit is due.

Hello sunshine! Welcome to my little corner of the blogosphere. Is that what this place is called? I’m kind of new at this. I have been a long time blog surfer, but this is my first attempt at anything myself. Here I will be posting the things that inspire me along my travels and the little things that keep me going. Please enjoy, and feel free to contact me with your thoughts and ideas.

my apartment