Better to have a little bit of something that is really precious than a lot of mediocrity.

I confess that I am not an avid watcher of design shows, some are interesting but others are not particularly inspiring or creative.  However, the episode of Grand Designs that I watched the other week was, and to quote Kevin McCloud, “one of my favourite houses – ever”. 

The house and artists studio which were built on a less than grand budget of £150k demonstrated that when creating a space good design comes from imagination and creativity.  The design was about taking inspiration from the landscape around the property and really considering each purchase when selecting the interior finishes.  When choosing a kitchen worktop only an artistic mind would say that they have chosen a finish which would reflect the weathered larch which had been used on the exterior of the property.  The colours used throughout the interior were simple and clean, the blues and greens complemented the lush green views outside the property and the grass roof was stunning.

When asked by Kevin about not being able to see the full view of the landscape from the mezzanine level they simply said they couldn’t afford to adapt the design and if they wanted to see it they could simply walk outside the front door.  Wise words from people who were interested in creating a beautiful space to inhabit that was within budget, rather than having sleepless nights over financing.

"It's going to cost you love" a girls guide to hiring a builder

Let's be honest, as women we are not shy when it comes to indulging ourselves, but I admit, as an independent woman who has contacts in the industry, the words, "this is not a small job" scare me immensely.  Words I have heard only recently (but that is another story).  So what do we do when we need to hire a tradesman? Well, without being patronising, and let's be honest here, how many hours do we spend analysing 'that dress' and how many conversations have we had about the latest designer handbag, we just need to use that eye for detail when hiring a builder.  My top tips are, do your research, trust your instincts and talk to as many friends as possible before you commit to the service.

My visuals should really be of my sub standard gas pipes :( instead I bring you a very nice winter coat.

Fifty Shades of Grey for your home

I read with amusement an article in the Evening Standard yesterday which stated 'Designers are taking EL James's erotic novel Fifty Shades of Grey to heart, making grey one of this season's top colours'.  I have always loved the colour grey, choose the correct shade (one that does not come with a list of rules:)) and you can create an incredibly sophisticated atmosphere within any room.  I personally love the paint colours by Zoffany which I have used in my own home.  The Paris grey and Silver create a soothing atmosphere and blend beautifully with neutral colours.  Another personal favourite which I have used on several occassions is Elephants Breath by Farrow and Ball which is rich and warm in appearance.

Have I read the book? Well yes you cannot avoid it. Will I read it again? Probably not. Will I watch the film when it is released? Highly likely.

Paris

I recently went to Paris to celebrate my birthday and really enjoyed the trip.  Whilst it is an incredibly romantic city I discovered that it is best explored with a female friend, for several reasons, the main one being that they never tire of shopping.

I love admiring the architecture in Paris, I have a terrible habit of peering into peoples homes anyway and the habit seems to intensify when I am in a different city. I really admire the work of Parisian Interior Designer Florence Boudoux, her apartment in Paris is beautifully designed, Parisian chic at its best. 

Lighting Design

Lighting first not last, that is one statement that has stayed with me after I finished studying Interior Design.  Lighting is often an after thought when planning a room, yet it should be carefully planned at the early stages and should not be considered as an accessory that can be introduced at the end.  Light more than any other element of the interior generates mood and atmosphere, its flexibility can evoke a particular mood, inviting concentration or relaxation, or a feeling of coolness or warmth.

An excellent example of how lighting can enhance a space can been seen within the Jigsaw clothing store on the King’s Road, I went in there to do some shopping but ended up transfixed by the layers of lighting that had been created within the space.  The beautiful coloured lights and chandelier that is hung in the entrance area were created by Anthony Stern Glass.

Hotel Interior Design

When I go on holiday or a short trip I often come back with photos of my hotel room, staying in a beautifully decorated hotel room can enhance the trip by making you feel relaxed and comfortable.  I have fond memories of staying in a room in central Paris, the walls were completely covered in red and cream Toile de Jouy fabric.

The Interior Designer Pierre-Yves Rochon creates hotel rooms which are a "home away from home".  I totally respect the way in which he approaches his work which is to always listen completely to the client and not to design for your own ego.  Examples of his work below from his book Interior Splendour show why he is so highly regarded.  

Morocco

I feel a sense of relief that January is finally over, for many reasons it is my least favourite month of the year, namely the cold weather, the feelings of guilt from the over indulgence during December and also the endless paperwork I have neglected (tax returns and artistic minds are not a match made in creative heaven).  The beginning of the year is also a time for new beginnings and a great time to start planning holidays so am looking forward to my trip to Morocco.  It will be a chance to practice some yoga and also admire the architecture and diverse Moroccan interiors.  The colour palette and the use of texture and pattern is endlessly varied yet skillfully put together.  It is in complete contrast to the generic design we often see in everyday life and is a source of inspiration.