Monday, 31 December 2012

A Toast to the New Year

Ring out the old, ring in the new,
Ring, happy bells, across the snow;
The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, ring in the true.
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
In Memoriam

A toast to the new year.
Happy 2013!

"The homeowner asked artist Richard Woods to work his fun, faux-bois magic on the bar, transforming a closet-like space into a vivid focal point."
Interior design by Mica Ertegun.
Interview by Frances Schultz.
"Cordial Spirit" produced by Doretta Sperduto and Rebecca de Ravenel.
House Beautiful (November 2012).

 Bar created by Phoebe Howard.
Photography by Laurey W. Glenn.
"How to Stock the Bar" by Zoe Gowen.
Southern Living (November 2012).

"Dujardin redesigned the bar's cabinetry. By providing more counter space as well as drawers and a wine refrigerator below, the functionality of the bar increased dramatically."
Summer home on Nantucket Island owned by designer Trudy Dujardin and her husband, Frank Fasanella.
Architect/Interior designer: Trudy Dujardin, Dujardin Design Assoc. Inc.
Photography by Terry Pommett.

"An antique hutch from New England was converted to a wet bar adjacent to the kitchen." Faucet by Kohler.
Naples, Florida vacation home of Sydney and Charlie Jerabek.
Interior design by Molly Frey (daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerabek), Molly Frey Design.
Architectural consultation by Mario La Mendola, La Mendola Architects.
Photography by Michael Partenio.
Text by Amy Elbert.
"New House New Kitchen" produced by Stacy Kunstel.

 "Next to the wet bar, the Jerabeks added a small climate-controlled room for storing wines. Although the antique French bottle corker does work, it is for display only."
Naples, Florida vacation home of Sydney and Charlie Jerabek.
Interior design by Molly Frey (daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerabek), Molly Frey Design.
Architectural consultation by Mario La Mendola, La Mendola Architects.
Photography by Michael Partenio.
Text by Amy Elbert.
"New House New Kitchen" produced by Stacy Kunstel.

"An antique bookcase doubles as a bar."
New York City apartment.
Interior design by Jim and Phoebe Howard.
Photography by Francesco Lagnese.
House Beautiful (November 2010).

"Skip's ingenious solution to avoiding the off-putting look of a bar in the living room. Now you see it . . ." (see photo below)
Washington, D.C. home of Skip Sroka.
Interior design by Skip Sroka, Sroka Design Inc.
Architect: Anne Decker, Anne Decker Architects. 
Builder: Gibson Builders.
Photography by Werner Straube.
Text by Candace Ord Manroe.
"Designer Skip Sroka's Own House" produced by Eileen A. Deymier.

". . . now you don't. The beautiful paneling conceals the bar [seen open in previous photo] when it's not in use. 'I think there are a lot of practical things we use on our lives that we need to hide,' Skip says. 'That's what I've done here.' "
Washington, D.C. home of Skip Sroka.
Interior design by Skip Sroka, Sroka Design Inc.
Photography by Werner Straube.
Text by Candace Ord Manroe.
"Designer Skip Sroka's Own House" produced by Eileen A. Deymier.

"In the dining room of their Barnard, Vermont cottage, Deirdre Heekin and Caleb Barber set up a sumptuous old-world bar on her childhood desk, placed against a backdrop of vintage wallpaper from Second Hand Rose."
Photography by Ditte Isager. 
"A Cozy Vermont Cottage" by Mimi Read.
House Beautiful (November 2011).


"A bookcase is designed with a mantel-like shelf 'to make it hearthlike, since we don't have a proper fireplace,' Heekin says."
Barnard, Vermont cottage of Deirdre Heekin and Caleb Barber.
Photography by Ditte Isager. 
"A Cozy Vermont Cottage" by Mimi Read.
House Beautiful (November 2011).

"Inspired by a gentleman's smoking lounge, the bar, built by C. Stasky, is clad in Maya Romanoff's True Metals Coffers. William Yeoward crystal. Ebony Pearl Silestone counter."
Apartment in 1906 red-brick warehouse on western edge of Manhattan.
House Beautiful 2012 Designer Visions Showhouse.
Interior design by David Rockwell, Rockwell Group.
Photography by Thomas Loof.
Produced by Sabine Rothman.
House Beautiful (November 2012).

"Once a closet, the wet bar in the media room is now handy when settling in to watch a movie."
1947 Georgian Colonial in Hickory, North Carolina - home to Bob Williams and Stephen Heavner.
Interior design by Bob Williams, Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams. 
Contractor: Glaze Construction Co.
Photography by Colleen Duffley.
Text by Jenny Bradley.
"Classic House, Major Renovation" produced by Andrea Caughey.
Traditional Home.


"A Marc Chagall painting graces the bar, which is paneled in distressed walnut."
Home in Las Vegas.
Interior design by Alexandra and Michael Misczynski of Atelier AM.
Architect: William Hablinski.
Photography by Pieter Estersohn.
Text by Mayer Rus.
"Classic Inclination" produced by Howard Christian.
Architectural Digest (September 2012).

"A metal-and-mirror bar cabinet doubles as a chessboard; the painting at right is by Robert Rauschenberg, and a pair of palettes used by the painter Balthus is mounted on a mobile."
Stone "castle" on Lake Geneva that is home to Prince Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia.
Photography by Gianni Franchellucci.
Text by Ingrid Abramovitch.
"Royal Treatment" produced by Anita Sarsidi.
Elle Decor (November 2012).

Wine room by Carol Egan and Wayne Nathan, Nathan Egan Interiors.
"Custom-made wine cabinets from Christopher Peacock were painted electric blue as a brilliant partner to the graphic black-and-white scheme. The Union Jack backsplash is constructed from Irish blue limestone - honed, polished, and distressed to create a subtle image of the British flag."
Text by Jenny Bradley.

A bar cart by Piero Fornasetti adorned with trompe l'oeil bows.
Milan home of Barnaba Fornasetti, son of the late Piero Fornasetti.
Photography by Andrea Ferrari.
"Magical Thinking" styled and produced by Paola Moretti.
Elle Decor (January 2013). 
By Enrico Decca (Originally in Elle Decor India.)

"The living room features a metal bar made by Francois-Xavier Lalanne for Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge."
Photography by Oberto Gili.
Styled by Carlos Mota.
"Carla Fendi's Eclectic Roman Apartment" written and produced by Marella Caracciolo.
Architectural Digest (October 2012). 

"The living room features a metal bar made by Francois-Xavier Lalanne for Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge. On one side of the living room, a pair of Lalanne bronzes - a desk in the form of a preening mountain sheep and a ram stool - flank a seating area."
Photography by Oberto Gili.
Styled by Carlos Mota.
"Carla Fendi's Eclectic Roman Apartment" written and produced by Marella Caracciolo.
Architectural Digest (October 2012). 


Tuesday, 25 December 2012

Merry Christmas people!

Charming Chelmer Queenslander Style

General Features
  • Property Type:  House
  • Bedrooms:    4
  • Bathrooms:   4
  • Land Size:   1202 m  (approx)

Outdoor Features
  • Garage Spaces:    2
 The ad for this house said "on prestigious Victoria Avenue",
I have no idea what that Avenue is like, but I sure would like to visit there now!

Old Queenslander home, how can you go wrong!
Well, I think this may be a later "replica" model,
but still, I love the detailing...

Merry Christmas everyone,
Happy New Year
See you in 2013!






 OK, no designer here,
but the owners obviously have nice taste,
well I like it anyway.
Great wall colours,
Love the ceiling detailing...
TWEET it HERE if you like it too.





OK, not the fanciest kitchen, something to update in due course I'd say!


 I love the traditional pretty bedrooms, my cup of tea!
Although it is very "country", maybe this for my future country house,
and something more modern for my "city" house!
LOL







 It just looks like it's in too good a nick doesn't it for a real old Queenslander...



 Lovely garden to boot!

 And here's the Master Plan if you're interested!

AND here's what the Agent said about it!

'Barimornie' Grand Queenslander Style on Prestigious Victoria Avenue
The definition of grand Queenslander style, Barimornie offers sophisticated family living in Chelmer's prestigious Victoria Avenue. Immaculately maintained, it effortlessly blends old and new to stand as a beautiful piece of real estate that exemplifies classic design elements and modern comfort.

A traditional floor plan has been enhanced by a number of modern upgrades with formal and casual living areas of generous proportions offering distinct space for living and entertaining. The quality of finish is second to none with rich interior details that define sophisticated comfort. VJ walls, high ceilings, ornate detailing throughout and timber floors call back to the quality and design of a bygone era while a clever use of modern fixtures provides a contemporary update that ensures a relaxed family lifestyle.

Wide verandahs wrap around the home with several rooms opening out to the generous outdoor areas. Providing views over the entire 1,202 square meter allotment, from the landscaped gardens and pool to the full-size tennis court, it couldn't be easier to entertain in style or simply enjoy a relaxed family lifestyle with more than enough space both indoors and out.

The traditional yet modern kitchen is well appointed to offer optimal functionality for those that love to cook. Extensive cabinetry, wide stone benches with a breakfast bar and a full range of quality stainless steel appliances complete this gourmet space.

There are four oversized bedrooms, offering space for the entire family. Each is a stylish private haven with VJ walls, built-in robes and soaring ceilings. The master is no exception. The epitome of traditional style is features extensive built-in robes and a private ensuite.

There is no shortage of exceptional features to ensure the best in comfort and convenience with this impressive residence. These include a large home office, multi-purpose room on the lower level that merges with the expansive child-friendly rear yard. With grassy, level grounds and a tennis court, it is a paradise with plenty of space for outdoor adventures.

Positioned in family-friendly Chelmer, the convenience of this home nearly exceeds its beauty. Enjoy the exclusivity of the property itself or venture to one of the many parklands located nearby. Additionally, a number of amenities are at your doorstep. This includes a host of local shops and restaurants, schools and public transport. Alternatively the CBD is just 7 kilometres away for a wide array of Brisbane's best shopping, eating and entertainment. Properties of this calibre are rarely offered to the market, making this a must to inspect for those seeking the absolute best in prestige living.


WOW

Saturday, 22 December 2012

Reindeer

And then, in a twinkling,
I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing 
Of each little hoof.
The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore

"Standing on a marble-top demilune table in the foyer, a vivid red amaryllis and an elegant Nymphenburg porcelain stag make a double impact with their reflections in a gilded mirror."
Beacon Hill (Boston) home of Gregory Van Boven and David Beck.
Interior design by Gregory Van Boven, Gregory Van Boven Interior Design.
Photography by Eric Roth.
Text by Krissa Rossbund.
"Christmas in Boston" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.
Traditional Home.

"A noble stag stands guard."
Designer Barry Dixon's 1907 Edwardian home, Elway Hall, near Warrenton, Virginia.
Interior design by Barry Dixon.
Photography by Matthew Benson.
Text by Rebecca Christian.
"Designer Barry Dixon's Garden and Grounds" produced by Jeanne Blackburn.

"A boucle-clad banquette anchors one end of the living room, which also hosts a circa-1970 bronze stag by Gabriella Crespi."
Furniture and accessories dealer Liz O'Brien's 1939 home in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania.
Photography by Anthony Cotsifas.
Text by Rob Haskell.
"Liz O'Brien's Modernist Home in Pennsylvania" produced by Michael Reynolds.
Architectural Digest (October 2012).

"Designer Laura Langworthy never misses an opportunity to celebrate the season. Greeting guests, a reindeer pulls back the French door to offer an unobstructed view of the glorious tree in the living room. A plaid throw in traditional Christmas colors drapes the hall bench covered in fabric from Brunschwig and Fils."
1940s house in Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Interior design by Laura Langworthy.
Stylist: Liz Kay.
Photography by John Bessler.
Written by Krissa Rossbund.
"Cozy Connecticut Holiday Home" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.

"A deep soaking tub [by Sunrise Specialty Co.] is the centerpiece, while silver accessories stand out against the basket-weave tile floor."
1940s house in Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Interior design by Laura Langworthy.
Stylist: Liz Kay.
Photography by John Bessler.
Written by Krissa Rossbund.
"Cozy Connecticut Holiday Home" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.

"In the entry, a folk art painting by artist Kevin Paulsen borrows from the style of early 19th-century itinerant artists."
1940s house in Washington Depot, Connecticut.
Interior design by Laura Langworthy.
Stylist: Liz Kay.
Photography by John Bessler.
Written by Krissa Rossbund.
"Cozy Connecticut Holiday Home" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.

"Peacock feathers, fans and faux birds from India, pine cones, velvet ribbon and dried, real and faux fruits embellish the holiday greenery."
Beverly Hills home of Mary McDonald.
Interior design by Mary McDonald.
Photography by Miguel Flores-Vianna.
"Winter Warmth" by Victoria Amory.
Veranda (December 2008).

"A metal reindeer fruit bowl holding oranges lends a subtle holiday touch to the counter space."
Home in Hinsdale, Illinois.
Photography by Gordon Beall.
Written by Candace Ord Manroe.
"New Home, New Beginning" produced by Hilary Rose. 

"The Adirondacks are teeming with rustic builders and craftspeople. Raymond Bouvier made the twig veneer cabinet."
Designer Mimi Maddock McMakin's home in the Adirondacks.
Interior design by Mimi Maddock McMakin of Kemble Interiors, Inc.
Builder: Peter Torrance.
Photography by Francesco Lagnese.
"Cozy is Rustic" by Mimi Read.
House Beautiful (December 2007).

"Reindeer hand towels from the Birch Store."
Designer Mimi Maddock McMakin's home in the Adirondacks.
Interior design by Mimi Maddock McMakin of Kemble Interiors, Inc.
Builder: Peter Torrance.
Photography by Francesco Lagnese.
"Cozy is Rustic" by Mimi Read.
House Beautiful (December 2007).

"At the side of the entrance hall and golden as summer squash, a pair of inviting chairs - their arms curled into ram's horns - flank a blazing fire. Chairs and ottoman are covered in Nicole Fabre's Mariotte. The carved wooden stag rests on a table covered in Serano from Le Gracieux. Swing-arm floor lamps are from Visual Comfort."
Pennsylvania farmhouse.
Interior design by Jeffrey Bilhuber.
Photography by Julian Wass.

"Pillows accented with red reindeer continue the Christmas theme."
Interior design by David H. Mitchell.
Photography by Keith Scott Morton.
"Counting on Christmas" by Leslie Dunne Sadler.
Southern Accents (November - December 2003).

"[F]amily member Stephanie Butler . . . made the gingerbread cookies that dance across the iron chandelier."
Houston, Texas home of Michelle Stewart and family.
Interior design by Michelle Stewart.
Photographed by Tria Giovan.
Written by Jill Kirchner Simpson.
"White Christmas" produced by Susanna Showers Moldawer.
(Photo found on Southern Living website.)
Originally published in Southern Accents (November - December 2005).

"Winterberries and a glittery reindeer add festive flair to a living room table."
Beacon Hill (Boston) home of Gregory Van Boven and David Beck.
Interior design by Gregory Van Boven, Gregory Van Boven Interior Design.
Photography by Eric Roth.
Text by Krissa Rossbund.
"Christmas in Boston" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.

"The reindeer gets a fur stole."
Beacon Hill (Boston) home of Gregory Van Boven and David Beck.
Interior design by Gregory Van Boven, Gregory Van Boven Interior Design.
Photography by Eric Roth.
Text by Krissa Rossbund.
"Christmas in Boston" produced by Estelle Bond Guralnick.
Traditional Home.