Tis the season!!

With Christmas fast approaching it will soon be time to start preparing for the big day! This year I'm hosting Christmas lunch, I’m extremely excited about it and look forward to cooking for everyone. I’m also excited because it’s our first Christmas at our house in Adelaide. Usually we either rent an apartment or stay with family.

Recently I picked up a copy of the Australian Woman’s Weekly, which had many especially inspiring Christmas recipes. It started me thinking about what I was going to cook and lots of fun ideas for decorating the table. This year I think I’ll choose a silver theme. There are so many  ways to make a gorgeous inexpensive Christmas table setting.  Here are a few ideas to help you create that festive mood.

                                                                 Fresh Flowers &  candles a must!

                                                               Christmas baubles in a bowl!

                                                                Festive name cards, a nice personal touch!

                                                              Festive colors and gold ribbon napkin ties

                                                            Decorated Chandeliers

                                                                Pine cone name holders and
                                                                Christmas bell napkin rings

'Feng Shui Crazy'

Living in Asia for the past 10 years and learning about Feng Shui has really influenced my creativity  and helped me create harmony and balance in my design work. For example, if furniture is wrongly placed in a room  it may interrupt or block the chi flow. It is really important in the lay out to leave space for the energy to flow and avoid placing a  lot of chairs, tables  and furniture which will block the energy.

Another important tip is that furniture such as chairs, couches, beds and tables should be positioned  in a way that allows you to view the door from them. Accessories such as pictures or paintings should also be at eye level.

The main Feng Shui principle influencing my design work is the consideration of the 5 elements, i.e wood, glass, metal, earth and water. For example, a room can be over bearing with too much glass, a balance can be achieved by using wood and natural fibre.

Inspirational fabric designer

Madeline Weinrib is my all time favourite fabric designer. I am totally drawn to her innovative collections and  her vibrant patterns that ooze glamour and style. Madeline Weinrib lives and works in New York.and  is based in the ABC carpet building, a visit to this centre is a priority when next in the ' Big Apple!'

Jewellery Inspiration 'Cat Hammill'

I just adore these rather 'hip' bracelets created by Melbourne based designer 'Cat Hammill'   www.cathammill.com.au  Cat's current range reflects on her recent travels through North & Central America. The bracelet and necklace range is made up of semi precious stones, suede and plated silver cat tags.
I've recently purchased  the neutral bracelet featured in this blog( purchased from 'Shopping at Tiffany's, Tanglin Mall - Singapore)  it totally jazzes up any outfit and will go with absolutely everything!

Treasured thought.......

" I am going to make everything around me beautiful! That will be my life." (  Elsie de Wolfe)

'Cool Chair '

Lately I'm really in to these cool chairs. These wishbone (aka' Y' chairs) originally evolved from the Ancient East. I love the design of this chair, it is so interesting ! Today they are being snapped up by those wanting a blend of ' east meets west'. These chairs are such an unlikely duo around a contemporary table but this look is so ''cool!"

Tropical Escape is well over due !

Close my eyes and count to '3'......... this is where i dream to be!!! Our holiday villa - Baan Sawan,
Koh Samui, Thailand.

Motivational thought for today

"Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor " ( Jackson Brown)

'Candy colours'

This home is  featured in 'Traditional Home', it's a circa - 1840's Italinate house. I love the white background with candy colored accents. This house balances color beautifully without comprising sophistication. I also love the striped ottoman with the horizontal band of stripes which is so interesting and provides a perfect contrast to the plain colored cushions..The neutral black and white fur rug and cushions also adds a lovely touch of  texture.

Inspiring "Tourquoise Empire Chandelier"

This striking  " Marjorie Skouras"   wrought iron chandelier  is festooned with strands of semi precious stone and  measures 34" inch tall and 22" diameter. This stunning chandelier would make a make a bold statement  in an entrance or living room. It would equally look amazing in any exotic beach holiday house.

Favourite thought of the day

"Life is a great big canvas and you should throw all the paint you can on it!" ( Danny Kaye)