Fireplace Required.

Winter has arrived. Today's cold gusty weather has given us an indication of what we're in for over the following months - which means for some cranking up the fireplace. I don't have one but like the look of this compact wood burning stove in a California guesthouse by Alexandra Angle.
Photograph via Remodelista.

Plum Soiree

via
I am not sure I am bold enough with my decor that I would dedicate an entire room to this majestic color.
Being more meek of heart, I can always get my plum fix via a great nail varnish!
Are you bold with your decor?

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Ringing in the New Year

via 1, 2, 3, 4
Whether you are getting dressed to the hilt and taking on the town, or having a quiet more intimate
New Years Eve at home, be safe, and may you have an evening to remember for years to come.
One of the highlights of 2010 for me has been the discovery of blogging, which happened quite accidentally.  I have made so many genuine friends in all of you.  Thank you so much for
continuing to read and support Inspired Design.  Your daily visits and comments light up my day and
I am very grateful to each and everyone of you!
Wishing you all a very Happy New Year.  xoxo

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Cozy Comforts

There is no escaping the fact that Winter is near.  It is an undeniable fact and I feel it most when my feet hit the cold floor in the morning or when there is a bitter chill when I am outside with the dogs in the evening.  I could easily hibernate indoors and not come out until Spring.  These are the perfect spots to cozy on up.
What are your plans for the weekend?  My daughter is having a sleepover for her birthday so I will have a house full of Freshmen girls and boys.  Bring on the loud music and laughter!

photo credits: 1) madison dance,  2) just be splendid tumblr 3) casabella design, 

Inspiration - Empty Fireplaces

Today I got a query from my fellow architect friend and blogger, Lou at Domestic Scene. She was wondering what to do with her empty fireplace now that winter is (supposedly) over. Wood or candles? I prefered the wood option. Then I did a bit of research and found some other options. Maybe coral and shells suit the 'summer' idea more? Have fun, Lou.

New Work - Soft Furnishings & Details

Following on from the 'Before and After' postings - here are the new soft furnishings and details from this job. The client is particularly fond of Robins Egg Blue so we used this as the main palette for the fabrics chosen. We used contrast piping on the existing old style furniture and the cushions to create contrast and give a nice crisp edge.

For the cushions, we used a range of textures, like velvet and moire (watermarking) and soft French-influenced patterns for interest.

Photos by Charlotte Minty.