Working Weekend - But at Least it was at Home

Finally finished painting - who knew that could be so much work?  Builder beige in a condo is surprisingly porous - took a little more time, and an extra coat I didn't expect to be putting on. Still all worth it in the end, I'll show you in an upcoming post!

Now didn't I tell you these were going to be everywhere?

What do you think?  Found this at Ikea - might look nice on the sofa I have yet to buy or get made (think I'm running out of time? Ahhhh!) and it pops so nicely against the (also purchased this weekend at Ikea) crib. 

Bill

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Classic Colour Combo - Cream and Gray

Late last year I finished up a project that was swimming in creams and grays, covered in any and all shades.  It was this specific mix of shades (and of course a number of textures) that made the job turn out so well.  There is little as relaxing as this palette.

I should be getting some photos soon, but in the meantime, I thought I'd share some of my favourite cream and gray's from around the web and maybe a couple of tips on how to incorporate the combo into your space.

Take this carpet for instance, this is your starting point.  The pattern adds a great texture to the space, and shades are soft and easy to work with.  See if you can find a piece that you can pull from.  It doesn't have to be large, but a piece that has a few tones, and one that you find easy on the eye.  I find pattern helps, it gives you a couple of firm points to jump off from.  

This is a great example of multiple shades or tones of this duo.  These wing-backs have a rich tone, a luxurious texture.  It's paired with a soft, linen pillow, a very subtle mixture.  I really like the casual drapery and dark wood around the window.  One other piece to note are the polished lamps.  I like to stay away from silvery touches (unless they are leaf) but polished always looks good mixed in.  

Interesting kitchen here, stainless insert into the island back, stainless backsplash, and all that with a warm, cream/driftwood colour contrast.

Many shades here, covering everything from cabinetry to mannequins.  I really love the gallery photos and light wall behind to highlight them.  

Of course fashion is another source of inspiration, if you needed any.  One of the first things I always look for when I'm coming up with a colour scheme for a job is to search for fabrics with a few of the basics that I want to work into the space.

  

This is the exit door that I want to have in my place, all in the shades that I'm loving these days.

Oh and I should make note of my favourite cream and grey Pinterest board (and check out mine here!)

Bill

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William Morris

 At least a few times a day I try to get up, off my seat.  I set down my pencils, try to clean the pencil dust and eraser shavings off my shirt cuffs and lap. Grab a breath of fresh air and clear my head.   As I was taking this little break a week or two back, one of the guys I had working on a project for me was reading through one of the most beautiful books I've seen.

Seriously great read, get your copy here!

The cover art grabbed me right away but I was hooked when I got a look at all of the shots on the interior.  This man was a pattern genius.   I borrowed it (or slipped it under my arm and ran!) and have been mesmerized with the images inside ever since.  

How I didn't know about William Morris is beyond me.  Apparently very well known and incredibly, still in business! William Morris & Co. is celebrating 150 years of design.  You can get paper, you can get fabric and you can use it all everywhere.  Designers - pay attention - imagine this on one or two pieces to pop in a space.

...or this...

Just Google his name for inspiration.  There are too many great patterns to count.  For the Canadian designers, there are a number of sources:  Anne Starr Interiors in Vancouver, DWA interior Furnishing in Calgary, and Telio in Montreal and right here in Toronto.

One of the joys of this job is finding a source you didn't know and waiting 

for a chance to use it!

{FIND A REASON FOR WILLIAM MORRIS & CO}

Bill

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