Rest & Relaxation...

       I've had a very long week at work and I am thrilled that the weekend has finally made its way back into my life.  I desperately need to recharge my batteries and am looking forward to nothing but rest and relaxation for the next 48 hours...  I'm giddy at the thought of  lounging in my back yard, soaking in the sun and reading the latest issue of Style at Home magazine.  As I embark on this restful journey, I would like to leave you with images from "A Beach Cottage" that, in my opinion, represent serenity, peace, tranquility and a hint of coastal laziness...  


Wishing you all a lovely weekend,
Myriam

A Hamptons Inspired Home...

Every year, the people at House and Home magazine design and decorate a show stopping house in order to raise funds for cancer research. In 2010, they really outdid themselves by creating a Showhome that I still dream about to this day. The inspiration for the Oakville abode comes from seaside destinations such as Cape Cod, the Hamptons and Chester, N.S. The facade is casual yet elegant with its stained cedar shingles,  Doric columns, oversized coach lights and natural wood porch. Inside, the house is very reminiscent of Diane Keaton's home in Something's Gotta Give which I've also admired for years... Although the dark color palette is very edgy, the sky high ceilings, large windows and open concept layout keep the home feeling light and breezy. J'adore the striking contrast between the ebony floors and ivory walls, use of cast iron lighting fixtures and textural melange of natural materials such as seagrass, stone, wicker and wood .

For more pictures and full product list click here

Photography by Michael Graydon

Summer Wicker...

When I think of laid-back summer cottage style, I immediately think of wicker furniture. There's something about it's organic, breezy and simple nature that references the outdoors and evokes feelings of comfort and ease. For me, it is reminiscent of days at the cottage and being on summer vacation.  Wicker furniture or accents are a must if  you want your cottage to exude exotic, coastal or beach-house charm... Woven materials such as wicker, rattan and seagrass are ideal to have in your home because they are lightweight, easy to clean, do not attract mold, do not easily accumulate dust and can be used for indoor and outdoor applications.

Dedon - Nestrest Collection

Marcelo Brito

Michelle Lloyd Bermann design - Stacey Brandford photography

Ami Design

Jonathan Adler

Aqua Vitae Design via House & Home

Archipelago Hawaii

Su Casa Designs

House and Home