First House on the Right

January Hiatus

2012-01-10T17:05:00.000+11:00

Well I have had the most marvelous Christmas break and have returned home feeling rested and hopeful for all that a new year can promise. With lots of things changing this year I’ve been giving some thought to my blog and whether or not it’s what I want to be doing at the moment. The obvious thing about blogging is that it does leave you feeling a little overexposed sometimes. Obviously. Not so much to the far and wide but more to the good peeps you eyeball every day who are gracious enough to be following another local's ramblings. Anyhoo, rather than throw the baby out with the bath water as I had originally intended to do, thought I might take a little break while I catch my breath and claw back some space so have given myself January off to mull over and get settled into 2012 and after that will hopefully be back, bigger and brighter than ever J

Wishing us all the very best 2012,

Nicolex

Since Saturday

2011-12-22T10:39:00.001+11:00

This weekend we had Mum & Dad's Christmas dinner as it's the year away for those of us that have interstate families-in-law.

On Monday a knock on the door rendered my new summer espadrilles. I shopped in one of the US sales over at 6pm.com and to quote my friend Tamma, "they were practically free".

I had them shipped by new mail forwarder US to OZ

I also whipped this cake up for Mister B to use up some almost way overripe bananas and didn't let the fact I had no eggs deter me. I know. Just call me Martha.

Monday night was my little niece's first ballet performance, they put on Pinocchio. It was beautiful and the little theatre was filled with teary members of las familias. The other sisters cried at the matinee performance on Sunday so I knew to come prepared with boot loads of tissues :) Very proud.

Getting in early.

Then Tuesday it was off to lunch with my lovely friend Ash and her Evan and my three little gatecrashers. Followed by some quick retail therapy and a slight misstep in this afternoon's smooth running that caused me to be roped into my first EVER Santa photo.

Just because the chilens asked. Supreme sacrifice on my part but haven't yet learned how to say no to them :(

FYI, his holiness should be the only red blob in a Santa pic.

Then quickly, you know I never like to miss a Duchess of C moment and since Saturday there have been two. First, wearing Alexander McQueen at the Sun's Military Awards and then in chic Ralph Lauren at a homeless shelter today. Some of you will say she's too thin I'm sure but I for envious one, think she's looking great. Naturally the press wasted no time drawing the never exhausting comparisons between the evening dress and one Diana wore once. Naturally no one else ever before has ever worn a black, sweetheart neckline. It's mind blowing stuff.

Images from here

Well I think that covers it my lovelies. I certainly plan to come back and wish you all a Merry Christmas before Sunday but just in case I don't, MERRY CHRISTMAS! Hope it's the best one yet!

Nicolex

PS If you didn't already know the January issue of Vanity Fair is out and I love that this is the cover circulating in December. So festive.

All Caught Up

2011-12-16T18:58:00.000+11:00

I have no idea where the last 10 days have gone since I last posted, what I do know is that every time I've looked at my dormant blog since then I have been taunted by that wretched card post. I have already burnt out and it turns out this year is shaping up to be no different to any other. Will I ever learn?

Anyhoo, in an effort to catch you up on everything, here is a licorice-all-sorts post to bring you up to speed. Firstly, I have bought some more ornaments. In case you were wondering. Some sweet little hummingbirds from One World and a disco ball-cum-Chinese lantern (?) from our local party shop.

On Wednesday I found this lovely surprise over At Home with Sam & I were FHOTHR (still the clumsiest acronym ever)had been given a Liebster Award from Mimi. It can only be given to a blog that has less than 200 followers so mine certainly qualifies :) In turn, I would like to pass it on to the following 5 blogs not just because they like me, are yet to amass more than 200 followers, but because quite simply, these are the blogs I always read:

1. Annie Loveridge Interiors

2. Penguin Begets Penguins

3. Tomas & Jones

4. Wilona & Me

5. Wishful Thinking

In the days of the old schoolyard we would have called this an encouragement award. And I am. Encouraged

That night I went out with the girls and saw New Year's Eve. The film tells a labyrinth of stories meandering into one fabulous night in the world's most fabulous city, New York. It's no Love Actually (but there can only ever be one of those, more on that later) but I loved it. With all my heart. The star wattage alone could light up Times Square for the evening, there's hardly anyone not in it! I don't know if it was the movie or whether it was just because I'm so recently back from New York but I shed ACTUAL tears for the city. Not the story line THE CITY, I miss it!.

Speaking of Hollywood, as you all know I am nothing if not shallow when it comes to all that sort of stuff and I was delighted to hear the SAG Award and Golden Globe Award nominations this week. You know what that means don't you - drunk acceptance speeches and RED CARPET FASHION! Soon. I'll keep you posted.

Now back to Love Actually - while there are lots of things I love about Christmas, I especially love any Christmas traditions. As I mentioned last year over here, one of them is the annual watching of Love Actually with Mister B. And tonight good peeps, is the night! I. Can't. Wait. I'm cooking chicken-something-or-other and after dinner we will settle in to one of my favourite nights of the year.

It's love actually.
Nicolex

Christmas Card Crisis

2011-12-06T19:20:00.001+11:00

Every year I enthusiastically purchase my Christmas cards for the season, take out my carefully compiled list of loved ones and settle in to convey my Yuletide love to them. And each year I'm burnt out by card #15 (on a good year, sometimes I don't even make 10) and I am left deflated and ruing that I ever started in the first place.

BUT I cannot be taught old tricks and this year I will once again attempt to get them all done and in the post before I lay me down to sleep on Christmas Eve (yes that is the actual cut off date I give myself so really no excuse to never have get through my list!). So I plan to get started tonight and to get myself in the mood I've found these old cards to inspire (or not).

From the timeless elegance of Jackie...

Image from here

...to the so-right-now absurdity of Mariah.

Image from here

From those klassy Kardashians,

Image from here

year after year...

Image from here

...to some actual class with the Windsors in 1987.

Image from here

Joan Collins...

Image from here

...and the other big O with his family.

Image from here

And finally, my pile o'blanks, waiting to be filled with words of warmth and wonder.

Wish. Me. Luck.

Nicolex

Weekend Wanderings

2011-12-05T12:30:00.001+11:00

This weekend we went down to Melbourne for a quick 24hrs (almost literally, our parking docket at the airport went from 13:53 on Dec 3 to 13:56 on Dec 4) where Mister B's cousin was hosting his annual Christmas Party.

First stop was for some sweetness and warmth on Little Collins (Melbourne weather was typically unpredictable and straight after a cuppa we went shopping for a coat) Dropping in at the Laurent has become somewhat of a tradition for us now, remember when we visited back here last year?

So much fabulosity!

The party itself was loads of fun, and the apartment was perfect. Mind you, I could only enjoy the beautiful view from the balcony in brave bursts as the wind out there was freezink! It's December people.

Ahem, we may have been a few hours in when this photo was taken :)

Isn't dessert ALWAYS the best part of the night!

Walking down Little Collins...

...where we found time for one more stop at our favourite patisserie before flying back.

Naturally I found a few moments to grab another ornament for the tree...

...let no bough go unburdened is the new expression I have coined for my addiction.

So our first Christmas party for the year and the season is off to a flying start. The pun is shameless. I know. Hope you've all had a good weekend, now am off to have dinner and settle in with the three new mags I bought today.

I shall report back with any need-to -knows!

Nicolex

A Pinch & A Punch

2011-12-01T16:29:00.001+11:00

Listen here good people, it's finally officially December so if you don't have your Christmas tree up yet...

...well, I don't know if we can be friends?

Nicolex

Southern Style

2011-11-30T18:07:00.001+11:00

Today is Mark Twain’s birthday so a great excuse to indulge in some beautiful Southern architecture. Firstly though, let me share. Huckleberry Finn is one of my favourite books. SO MUCH so that for a brief and mad moment I contemplated the middle name Huckleberry for a boy should we ever have one. I know. Fortunately for the future kidling, Mister B vetoed my brilliant idea so chances are it won't be a goer. Like I said, a brief and mad moment...now am sure you already know this about dear old Samuel Clemens but in case you don't allow me to bore you with this serendipitous little fact: he was born in 1835 during a visit from Halley’s Comet and died the day after the comet returned in 1910. Interesting don't you think. Rhetorical question.

So the really important stuff. The houses. I don't think they have been collated as perfectly as they are here in this beautiful book by Laurie Ossman and Steven Brooke. You can grab a copy from Amazon for $34.65, barGAIN!

Buy it here

A few of the homes featured...

Charles City County, Virginia

Charlston, South Carolina

Savannah, Georgia

Nashville, Tennessee

Natchez, Mississippi

So lovely, can't wait for my copy to arrive so I can enjoy it with some fried chicken and cool sweet tea :) And on the note of fried food I am must dash off and get myself ready for the 7pm dance class (far too graceful a description of what actually goes on in my corner of the studio) I've started where I remain unmoved by my very obvious lack of talent :)

Have a lovely evening everyone,

Nicolex

Weekend Wanderings

2011-11-28T10:26:00.001+11:00

Am back from the loveliest of weekends visiting a friend and her new bebe. The first thing we did after pick-up was to drop in and visit Oliveaux's newly opened store in Woolloongabba. Love! Am cross at myself that I didn't think to ask Amanda if I could take some pictures to post here, she has created such an a-marzing space in there. You'll just have to pop in yourselves. Saturday was spent lunching and dinnering with friends and a lazy Sunday lolling around catching up on everything. Utopia.

The digs.

I know.

The Oliveaux loot.

There's only so much you can fit into an already overweight suitcase.

The pie. Coconut Cream. Wicked.

Sadly I didn't take any pictures of our finished 'pa' so

you'll have to 'make do' with one of Martha's.

Old friends are the comfort food of company don't you think. Rhetorical question.

Nicolex

Fashion Friday: Posh & I

2011-11-24T23:26:00.001+11:00

OK I am absolutely crazy about this colour combo and would like to thank the fashions gods that our very own CR has brought haute couture to the masses and to show my gratitude I have bought almost everything in their current collection. Adore it.

Image from Country Road

So if I share some pictures with you of Posh rocking the orange & navy at FAO Schwartz with her sweet bebe last week, does it give me a brazen excuse to whip my own FAO Schwartz snapshots? I thought so.

I didn't have quite the entourage on my visit BUT my tin soldier was much cuter.

Posh working one of the lewks from her own collection.

Me working my own navy & orange lewk in Central Park (and yes it still feels a-marzing to type that) last month...

...and in the combo again in DC (along with a whoopie pie and subway fall bandaids accessories).

I know what you're thinking, she & I could be twins :)

Have a great w/end peeps. I for delighted one have fled the southern rain and are coming to you live from sunny QLD. Love.

Nicolex

At Home: Hilary Swank

2011-11-23T13:54:00.001+11:00

It's been a few years since Hilary Swank made Academy Award history by becoming the youngest actor to win 2 Oscars. I really like her, she seems like someone with substance...because I know her so well. Anyhoo, her home is featured in the December issue of Elle Decor and I was interested to have a look.

There's something about this room I find very peaceful and I heart the greenery.

Image from Elle Decor

The kitchen's a bit too sensibly tidy for me.

Image from Elle Decor

I'm coveting those lamps. Love.

Image from Elle Decor

A little nook.

Image from Elle Decor

Loving the mirror, photograph and floors.

Image from Elle Decor

What do you think?

Nicolex

All in (2) Day's Work

2011-11-21T14:07:00.001+11:00

Sometimes I don't know how the weekend got here and then I'm not sure where it's gone but in this one we managed to re-plant the Beatrice Emily's I very lazily put in back here. Note to self, a hole in the grass does not a flower bed make.

The Beas are already looking much chirpier.

More importantly we started the makeover of the backyard. Methinks the plants may as well get a head start on the renovations. My beauty gift to the planet is this - I will be covering every urglee inch of our colorbond fence with hedge. You're welcome. As of yesterday, the magic has begun as we've started putting in more Murrayas (Orange Jasmine) around the circumference of the yard. I love their shiny dark green leaves and their scent while flowering (which they do numerous times a year) is quite exotic. More to the point though, along with our Gardenias and hopefully the baby Beas, they are the ONLY plants we have managed to keep alive in our 6 years in the house. Green thumbs we are not.

On their way to the backyard.

Of course at this time of year it wouldn't be a weekend without a last minute dash to the shops and naturally as my Christmas motto is let no stone be left unturned in the hunt for new and fabulous ornaments, I didn't.

So much fabulosity.

This morning I spent a pleasant little while adding them to our flailing tannenbaum, there's starting to be some serious weight in there. Because I'm a sharer I'll tell you where just in case any of them are speaking to you personally:

1. Little gold bear & aqua sequin ball are from Freedom.
2. Clear glass pear is from Country Road.
3. Miniature bells star is from Witchery.
4. The cute little birdhouse & gold butterfly are from Bed Bath N Table (and with the birdhouse coming in at $6.75, I am a saver!).
5. The silver teardrop (that opens), big-eyed dog, vintage glass scenes and initial ornaments ($3.95, did I mention SAVER) are all from Domayne.

Then it was off to my regular Monday after school date with a quick cuppa before ballet...

...and tonight I'm looking forward to catching up on my new favourite shows.

The day is done. Hope you've all had a lovely weekend and this week is shaping up OK too :)

Nicolex

Fashion Friday Plus

2011-11-18T17:18:00.001+11:00

My ode to fashion this Friday is short & sweet. Or perhaps I should say long & green.

Image from here

I am a fool for green and Zoe Saldana certainly rocked this frock at the Latin Grammy Awards on Sunday. I hadore it! It's from the Elie Saab 2012 Spring Collection and I want one. And somewhere glam to where it. And a body to fit it. That's all.

In other news...

...Tuesday was cardholders cheese & champs night at one of our not-as-local DJs store so I took the opportunity for a trip and a toast and set off to find me some more Tannenbaum boot-ay.

It's a bit Burberryesque and I love the colour.

The brass is covered I'm nothing if not a proud Ostrayen

I like to put bon bons in the tree too.

The little peeps came with and were excited to see a cut-out of the Statue of L. They have a slight ob-sess-ion with NY post their favourite aunty's (self-bestowed title) recent trip and the fact that lady liberty herself was brandishing Kieh'ls a-marzing moisturiser instead of a torch did not dull their enthusiasm. Though it was mentioned.

Then today in the post, these sweet things from Robert Gordon arrived. Love.

Too much, is never enough.

Nicolex

PS Is it OK to say I feel sad for Demi Moore when we're not on a first name basis? Because I do.

Image from here

The Sexiest Man is Alive

2011-11-17T16:24:00.001+11:00

Phew. In breaking news, Bradley Cooper has just been named People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive.

Image from here

As you were.

Nicolex

Lonny Love

2011-11-13T12:49:00.001+11:00

I had a chance to sit down with the latest issue of Lonny Magazine over the weekend and while there is always the obligatory shopping lust list, I was most drawn to the home of Robert & Michael Leleaux . It's not grand on any scale, in fact it's a tiny Upper West Side apartment but it's everything that I admire most in a home. It's so personal and interesting and heterogeneous and lived in and sophisticated and a bit quirky. I wanted to park myself on every chair in every corner and ask the two of them questions. About everything.

I love the mirror, the scattered art in different sized frames, the dresser, the arrangement on the dresser.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

I am a fool for gallery walls. Always.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

Almost instantly I felt the overwhelming need for a gaping mouth match holder. There can't be any other way to store matches (though I ignorantly need to know where you strike them before I invest).

Images from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

Everything feels so collected and non-matchy matchy (mein gott there has to be a better way of saying that!). I want to go to there.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

Spiral staircase...

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

...leading up to the bedroom. The vintage movie poster is fantastic.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

Sadly the black rotary phone by my bed no longer works but I love it and refuse to move it from the night stand. I live in hope that someone somewhere someday will be able to get it working again.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

If you haven't yet had a chance to peruse this issue, waste NOT A MOMENT.

Image from Lonny Nov/Dec 2011

AND don't be tempted to just soak in the pictures, read Robert's article as well, so enjoyable.

Nicolex

Christmas Cha-risma

2011-11-11T16:48:00.000+11:00

I've said it before and I'll remind you again, when it comes to Christmas, I am a more is more type of a girl! Less is more applies only to the weak at this time of year. SO, you should prepare yourself to be inundated with more and more Christmas cheering and leering on this blog as I become more and more manic in the lead up to December 25.

O Tannenbaum went up in our lounge room last weekend and every night as I bask in her glow I know it wasn't a moment too soon! Naturally all will be revealed soon but in the meantime I'm compelled to share some new additions since last year. Compelled.

I brought these back from our 'oliday in New York...

ESB construction lunch break The Plaza

Rockefeller Center Bloomies

...and our w/end in D.C.

JFK Center for the Performing Arts The Capitol

Then from IKEA on the weekend...

($9.99 for a set of 8 here)

...last night's haul from our local Westfield...

A world globe from Big W. I am not a yuletide snob AND I'm a saver ($3.94)!

...these from DJs

Felt birdy (bought her in red too B'bush is not feeling the Xmas spirit

Moon face Santa The Night Before Christmas book

Royal Albert Teapot and Cup & Saucer ($14.95 each barGAIN!)

Sweetest little mini snow dome.

...and these from Tarjay

25% off at the moment, now is the time peeps!

Oh, and while I was getting carried away putting the new ornaments up and taking pics, I was interrupted by the courier who dropped off this leetle dahlink from Peters of K.

I loike it, I loike it a lot.

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-11-11T13:37:00.000+11:00

There's nothing like the Duchess of C wearing a new frock to help you out on Fashion Friday! Last night she and Wills hosted a charity dinner for the National Memorial Arboretum Appeal. Kate wore a silver-grey Grecian style gown (speculated to be Alice Temperley) and I'M SURE those are the same choos we saw her in here. Yep, it's only a glimpse but I can tell. I'm gifted like that.

Images from here

I think she looks fabu-rous!

Nicolex

House Plans

2011-11-07T13:24:00.000+11:00

We're getting ready to undertake some ma-jore house renos next year. I'm a planner by nature and am loving each and every step. Right now we're drafting rough sketches, meeting with our builder to confirm that what we want to do is in the realm of possibility for our little place and saving like silly things. Ever the optimist, I am hoping to break soil in April/May but Mister B, ever the realist, informs me it will more likely be August/September next year :(

Undeterred I am forging on with my self-generated schedule and am working on the kitchen plan. Am thinking we'll most likely put in a galley kitchen as it's most practical for the new space. I'd like to put a breakfast nook (does it sound more impressive if I call it a banquette?) at one end of the kitchen under a window too. Naturally I'm gathering up lots of inspiration to help me on our way.

Image from here

Image from here Image from here

Image from Home Beautiful

Image from here Image from here

Image from here

Am very excited as I do love a project to sink my fangs into and am looking forward to sharing all the gory details with you here.

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-11-04T17:00:00.001+11:00

When I got my first job and could finally spend my marigolds on whatever I liked, I bought fashion mags like they may not be printed again. These were the girls on every single cover. They weren't just models, they were supermodels and I was mesmerised.

Image from here

Five of the originals (Yasmin, Helena, Cindy, Naomi & Eva) are back on the cover of December's Harper's Bazaar UK for a Duran Duran inspired Dolce & Gabbana photo shoot.

Image from here

Images from here

Image from here

Love seeing them all back together, makes me feel young and frivolous again.

Nicolex

Christmas Cutie

2011-11-03T19:11:00.001+11:00

When it comes to Christmas trees I’m not the sort of girl who rotates her ornaments and has a different ‘theme’ each year. No siree! My theme is CHRISTMAS - all the ornaments, all the time, altogether. I like it to be brrrrimming. In fact, I am hoping the tree will one day topple over under the weight of it all (of course I’m hoping that any fragile favourites will fall gently onto a nearby cushion) and I will be forced to invest in an even bigger, more fabulous one. I have a list of favourite shops whose Christmas ranges I like to check out each year, just in case, they’ve brought out any newbies my tree cannot live without. One of my must-checks is Mozi and look what I found this year.

Image from Mozi

A-DOR-ABLE. I defy anyone to keep picturing their tree without her (and a few of her sisters). I couldn't.

Nicolex

Absolutely Beautiful Things

2011-11-03T18:12:00.000+11:00

This morning when I got the email to say Absolutely Beautiful Things had launched their latest vignette today I was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as I clicked over to have a look. Now I really I don’t want to make powerful enemies (but I think I can be assured that neither Anna nor any of her peeps read FHOTR) but is it OK to say I was devastatingly disappointed? I really look forward to Anna’s seasonal vignettes which showcase her incredibly unique style brilliantly, not to mention what an original concept she has brought to online shopping!

Make up your own mind over here and I'm sure if you've never seen any of her other vignettes you'll think I've lost my mind! BUT the last two were A-MAR-ZING and for me this one lacked pizazz and polish. For me. Just my opinion.

Nicolex

PS It's not that I didn't like anything, I IMMEDIATELY tried to purchase the vintage pineapple ice bucket but alas it was already sold out. So there, I'm not a hater.

Images from Absolutely Beautiful Things

Royal Round-Up

2011-11-03T15:30:00.000+11:00

You know I never miss an opportunity to bring you another Duchess of C moment so here she is yesterday rocking out in red (L.K. Bennett, boy has she put this label on the map!) with Princess Mary and Princess Frederik in Copenhagen.

I usually think of 'our' Mary and Fred as being quite tall so it's funny to see them cast as 'shorties'. Useless piece of information - Wills is 6' 3" and Kate is 5' 10".

Nicolex

5 things you didn't need to know

2011-11-02T21:46:00.000+11:00

1. Hugh Grant is going to be a daddy. Not just a sugar one. 32 year old actress Tinglan Hong recently gave birth to their daughter.

2. Kim Kardashian has filed for divorce 72 days after her wedding. It wasn't for ratings, it wasn't for ratings.

3.The Hasselhoffs have their own reality show. The world just officially ended.

4. Jessica Simpson finally tweeted her own pregnancy news after it became clear that the eagerly anticipated magazine bidding war for the announcement, was more like a bidding paper-scissors-rock.

5. I just learned that the Rolling Stone's Ronnie Woods is also a rather talented artist.

Who knew?

Nicolex

Find Of The Day

2011-11-02T21:16:00.000+11:00

I saw these acid-etched, stainless steel oil lamp shadow projectors in the November issue of Inside/Out. Are they not adorable. They are $48 (+ $22 shipping to Oz) from Adam Frank Incorporated.

The little silhouettes are sweet enough as they are but the real treat is when you light them up at night and a huge shadow is projected on the opposite wall. I bought the pine here as it will add to the Christmas ohm-bee-arnce in our living room.

Of course now I'm thinking I should have bought half a dozen of them so I could have a plantation of trees on the wall. Have I mentioned I only do the more is more type of Christmas?

Nicolex

Happy Birthday Sister

2011-11-01T18:59:00.001+11:00

When I decided to start doing birthday posts over here I didn't stop to think in 2 days time I would have to be writing one for a sister. Overwhelming. How do you put in words what a sister means to you? Please tell, as I really do not know! Rather than tying myself in impossible knots trying I'll just tell you a few quick things I love about my sister Rachel.

Rach

Rach is thoughtful. Mum says she always has been. Knowing I'm a bit of a 'fraidy cat when Mr. B is away, Rach texts me before she goes to bed to let me know she's sleeping with her phone by her side in case I need to ring in the middle of the night.

Rach doesn't fuss, she just gets in and does it. Whether it be house stuff, school stuff, church stuff, family stuff, she doesn't waste time talking about it, she just does it. This daydream believer should be taking notes.

Rach loves her kids to distraction. She walks her own race and tries her darnedest not to get caught up in the game. Like most mums, she is in there striving every day to be the best possible one she can.

Rach lets me be a big sister by sometimes running ideas and concerns for her kids by me (despite me not having any of my own). She trusts my intelligence and my love for her poppets, knowing I too want the very best for them and I love her for recognising that.

Rach has the same dry sense of humour as I do. I don't know how many times we've rung each other unable to breathe let alone speak for laughter as we've tried to convey a particularly hilarious incident that we each know the other will get immediately.

Rach is generous. Very. With her time, with her money, with her home, with her things. All of it. She has 3 kids, I have a part-time job yet she'll end up being the one making a cake for me to take to a do because some somehow I have personally misplaced 5hrs in the day.

Mum, Rach & I

As I read back what I've written I'm frustrated that words as always have let me down and I can't truly tell you how I feel but Happy Birthday Rach. How lucky was I when you came along two and a half years later. Rhetorical question :)

Nicolex

Monday's Martha Stewart Home Tour

2011-10-31T21:56:00.003+11:00

New York is not out of my system and today I'm taken with these two homes. Firstly a grand 1888 house surrounded by 87 acres on the Hudson River home. It's owned by Joan Davidson who has restored it and the grounds to their former glory.

Image from here

Don't you love the carefully placed mirrors on the porch (rhetorical question). What a reflection. An unfinished portrait of her daughter by Horacio Torres hangs in the entry hall.

Images from here

Love the vertical row of gold framed landscapes by the mantle.

Images from here

I've always been a fool for twin beds and I really like the shape of the mirror on the matching faux bamboo dresser.

Images from here

The bedroom door nameplate is by the owners daughter-in-law Drew McGhee (good luck googling her to find more of her work, I came up with nada) and the wall mural reflects the view outside the window.

Images from here

The arts and crafts room which Joan fashioned for her grandchildren. A-mar-zing. An adjoining playroom includes a little stage for plays - why are there no pictures of this room :(

Image from here

The drive in and the view. Now that's something I could get used to.

Images from here

Then to the other extreme with a teeny tiny one bedroom apartment in an 1830s row house in the West Village. I think to appreciate the changes done by Sarah Humphreys and her team, you really have to take a look at the floor plan first to see what they were working with. 307 square feet!

Image from here

A team of home editors helped her set about making the most of every bit of space. The first thing they did was replace the original overstuffed furniture with sleek sophisticated and tailored pieces. They lightened up the room with a fresh paint scheme giving the illusion of more space and ahem, the actuality of more style!

Images from here

A piece of wood about a third larger than the mantle was painted the same colour and screwed to the top to allow for more storage and floor to ceiling shelving was installed either side of the fireplace. Love floor to ceiling storage. Always.

Images from here

Short of tearing the kitchen out and starting again there was no way to improve it's location in the apartment (then again, where else would it go?). So they modernised the dated cabinetry by removing the doors, painting the frames white and the back of the cupboards the same blue as the walls. Leaving the doors off made the kitchen feel more open and the large storage boxes up the top hold platters and holiday decorations.

Images from here

Along with a more sophisticated entry wall they resolved the shortage of eating surfaces (previously either lap or coffee table) by replacing the cluttered console area with a drop leaf table. When both leaves are down (as pictured) the table is less than a foot wide. Oh and there's a wide drawer running through the centre of the table. These peeps are space savvy!

Images from here

The 9x7 (FEET not metres!) bedroom had no window and the original drab colour scheme did it no favours. The repaint is a given, the bed was centred in the room with a headboard that was actually fabric hanging from a wooden dowel as there was no room for anything wider. So clever.

Images from here

Shoes were stored in wooden organisers at the top of the little wardrobe, shoulder hooks installed for jewellery and extra storage for clothes in neat boxes under the bed.

Images from here

Very impressive. It makes me think about what I can live without and puts me in the mood to declutter, declutter, declutter!

Nicolex

Happy Birthday Friend

2011-10-30T22:18:00.001+11:00

I read a birthday post on Friday and while I was initially a little taken back by the unashamed praise I was impressed by the frankness and the kind words. It really resonated with me in that I feel like oftentimes as life keeps us busy we forget to SAY all the warm and fuzzy things we feel about our loved ones. I hope it's not too macabre a thought but how often do you sit at a funeral and think to yourself, "I wish fill-in-the-sad-blank was here to hear all the beautiful words being said about them".

Neen's random musings have inspired me to follow the advice of her parents' anthropologist friend who believes in "the importance of using significant events like birthdays to tell people how you feel about them". So as there is no better time than the present let me say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my friend Nadine (Naids) who turned 31 (still young enough to mention age I say) today and tell you why I'm lucky she moved back into my neighbourhood and we became friends.

Mr. B and Naids waiting for the water taxi on the Hudson last month.

Naids is calming. Did I mention I was NOT getting on a flight that took me 13+ hrs over the Pacific Ocean without her being on it too. Turns out I was a much calmer passenger than I thought I was going to be but I didn't know that from the onset and was so grateful to be embarking on such a long-haul adventure with Naids only seats away.

Naids is genuinely kind. She strives for peace. She really does and I think every group of friends needs someone like this in their midst. It's grounding and reminds someone like me who can be too opinionated that in many cases peace is better than getting to the core of the agitated nitty gritty.

Naids checks in on how Weight Watchers is going for me. 6 months in and that's no small feat, weight loss has to be one of the most boring side notes to life (unless you're the one struggling with it!) yet she remembers to ask and encourage.

Naids is actively involved in her church. She's not sitting in a pew going through the motions but is in there with her sleeves rolled up trying to make it a better place for her children to grow up in. I admire that.

Naids reads my "shitty little blog" (pop over here and read the first comment) which is not steeped in gravitas but it's my little stamp on the world so it's important to me in that way.

Happy birthday Naids, 31 cements your place in the thirties and I for one think they are so much better than your twenties so three cheers :)

Nicolex

Thank You Roll Call

2011-10-28T19:20:00.001+11:00

There are a lot of things I like about Louise Bell's Table Tonic blog. One of them is her Thank You Roll Call as I like to call it. Quite regularly (if not weekly) she posts to acknowledge any mentions that Table Tonic has had in Bloggington (and believe me there are OODLES so it's no rush job!). Though FHOTR (not a convenient acronym I know!) doesn't draw anywhere near that kind of attention (yet, I'm ever hopeful) I think it's a lovely idea and one of the ones that keeps the blogging community connected.

So without further fuss I have ONE thank you to say for this week - to Tomas & Jones. You made my day on Thursday when I found you'd listed FHOTR as one of the blogs you've been reading and enjoying lately (in there with Dear Little House and Design Files so delighted). Thanks girls! It's been so lovely to get back and catch up on all your posts too.

Happy Weekend (is there any other kind?) everyone!
Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-10-28T18:32:00.000+11:00

Apparently spots are going to be big in the northern hemisphere autumn/winter and if the popularity of Stella McCartney's polka-dot dresses is any indication then I think they're a sure thing.

Liv Tyler with Stella for her boutique opening on 5th Avenue earlier this year.

Image from here

On the runway.

Images from here

The print campaign.

Image from here

Kate Winslet and Jane Fonda.

Images from here

Stephanie Seymour and Livia Giuggioli

Image from here Image from here

There are white styles as well.

Images from here

Gisele on the cover of Brazilian Vogue.

Image from here

You can get in on the Stella love too.

Over here at Net-A-Porter.

Nicolex

New Store: Oliveaux

2011-10-27T17:53:00.000+11:00

Thought you should all know that Oliveaux, a wonderful boutique interior design store has opened up in Brisbane this week (specifically, at 16 Logan Road, Woolloongabba).

Image from here

Since establishing the Oliveaux blog in 2008, Amanda Harris has amassed a significant following in Bloggington and it's easy to see why. I'm certain her shop will be just as enthusiastically received and I for one cannot wait to stop by on my next visit to Brisbane.

Nicolex

2011-10-25T17:40:00.002+11:00

Another catch up issue for me, this time it's Adore Magazine Oct/Nov issue that came out while I was away. Coincidentally it is also their New York edition, so what's not to love. Anyhoo, rather than rehash it all, I'll just leave you with my shopping list :)

National Flag Pillows from Down That Little Lane

Cinchwaist Gold Leaf Iron & Mirror tray from Harlow's Nest and Gold-tone Place Setting from Diane von Furstenberg at Neiman Marcus, something so glamorous about the gold-tone.

p30 p41

Harriet Chair from Domayne

p47

Bow Bridge Kennedy bag from Kate Spade

p66

Stanton Bar Cart from Society Social. Now while it looks great below in the image from Society Social's own website, it looks FABULOUS in how it was set up in the Upper West Side apartment of Melanie Duncan, as featured on pp 74-87. Cannot for the life of me work out how to download the image straight from the magazine (and yes, I do realise that is the point) so you'll either have to take my word for it or pop over here and have a look for yourself.

p77

Being a silver girl at heart, it hasn't eluded me that lately a fair bit of gold seems to be calling my name. Interesting.

Nicolex

Find Of The Day

2011-10-24T20:32:00.000+11:00

Remember Gwyneth's funky YUBZ handset over here? Well I found a similar one from Native Union over at Peters of K and was compelled to buy it. Compelled.

It's kind of ridiculous and wonderful all at the same time.

Nicolex

At Home: Ellen DeGeneres & Portia de Rossi

2011-10-23T12:01:00.000+11:00

While I was away a new issue of AD landed, this one featuring the new home of Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi. I'm sure it's well and truly done the rounds of Bloggington but as it's new to me you'll have to pardon the repeat.

Portia & Ellen sit in front of an Andy Warhol collaboration in their living room.

Image from AD

As summer draws closer here in the southern hemisphere, this beautiful pool is very enticing.

Image from AD

The fanciest ping pong table I've ever seen.

Image from AD

Love the wood storage either side of the fire.

Image from AD

The pair added a screened porch.

Image from AD

Currently being a little-bit-more-than-usual obsessed with shoes, I am loving this closet.

Image from AD

You can read more about their home over here.

Nicolex

I Heart NY More Than Ever

2011-10-17T13:45:00.001+11:00

Well I've been back for a little over a week and I'm already devastated at how faraway it all seems. To wake up one morning looking out over Central Park and the next out at familiar suburban power lines is quite a shock to the system. BUT it is good to be home and as I can't possibly describe how fabulous it was to finally visit New York, I shall let some of our holiday pics attempt it instead.

Bethesda Terrace

The Reservoir in Central Park Bryant Park

The Russian Tea Room Tiffany & Co

The Flatiron Building

Checking out of the Waldorf The view from our room at the Plaza

Last night in NYC Empire State Building

The Plaza (from Central Park)

9/11 Memorial

The Guggenheim

Looking up at buildings on Central Park West while rowing on The Lake

30 Rock Wall Street Bull NY Stock Exchange

Afternoon Tea at Palm Court Upper West Side

Time Square

A waldorf salad at the Waldorf

Aboard the Staten Island Ferry

On the Hudson looking down towards the Statue of Liberty

The Mall in CP.

Loved every minute of it. Can't wait to go back.

Nicolex

PS Yes, this is just yesterday's post updated with labels on the photos.

Queensland House

2011-09-13T18:22:00.000+10:00

Not only is Hayley from Porchlight Interiors. selling her beautiful home but it's also featured in the current issue of Home Beautiful. I've seen it popping up in Bloggington over the week but I have to have my 2 cents worth too so I can share some of the particular fabulosity that I'm loving.

I'll start with the kitchen, what's not to love? The island bench, the cabinetry with glass shelves and shelves lined with glasses, the subway tiles, the clock, the dark floor boards, it's all superb.

Image from here

Oh and see that peeking through at the end, a butler's pantry with contrasting grey cabinetry. Amaaarzing.

Image from here

Absolutely adore the cluster of different sized globes over the dining room table, with that, the wallpaper and the mirrors, it's really quite an exotic room.

Image from here

The panelled ceiling, no words.

Image from here

The cozy dine-in cellar has so much atmosphere.

Image from here

The cabinetry, counter-top and hardware of the double sink. Perfect.

Image from here

The colour on the wall is so fresh, love the finish of the teeny tiny mirror and the dark furniture.

Image from here

I want that coffee table in the middle of the room.

Image from here

You can see the full listing over here.

Nicolex

Find Of The Day

2011-09-12T13:38:00.001+10:00

Yesterday while catching up on some missed episodes, I became obsessed in a have-to-have-it-now kind of a way with a necklace worn by LuAnn de Lesseps in the Real Housewives of New York City (my name is Nicole and I am an addict). It's certainly not for the faint of heart and not only am I not a butterfly person, I'm most definitely a silver over gold gal any day of the week. BUT I JUST LOVED IT!

Image from here

As all obsessions lead to Google I soon found out it was by Kenneth Jay Lane and are you ready for the best news? It only costs $101.55 at shopbop AND shipping to the land of Oz is free! I kid you not. It's meant to be ladies:)

Image from here

Once I realised the necklace had made it's debut many moons ago in the second of series of SATC (how did I not remember it?) it felt like the full stop at the end of my must have.

Image from here

It's definitely the type of piece you'll either love or hate with passion so I'll let you make your own minds up. As for me, it's only a matter of when. This baby is mine.

Nicolex

2011-09-11T23:03:00.000+10:00

For the last 33 years (still young enough for it not to be a crime to mention the age) the most important thing about September 11 in our family has been a birthday. And it still is. Happy Birthday Tilly!

For the rest of the world, and NY in particular obviously, September 11 marks the anniversary of the terror attacks that changed the world forever. I thought these photos of the 9/11 Memorial that was dedicated today (and opens to the public tomorrow) were worth sharing. The two pools are quite something.

Image from here

The view looking back towards the city last night.

Image from here

And PS, if this picture doesn't make you want to visit New York, I don't know what will.

Nicolex

Vanity Fair: September Issue

2011-09-02T19:29:00.000+10:00

Angelina Jolie is her breathtakingly beautiful self on the cover of this month's Vanity Fair.

Image from here

The issue went on sale yesterday so I hope my copy arrives before we fly out in a few weeks time, I need to add it my 13hr flight survival pack!

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-09-02T13:43:00.000+10:00

And out of the blue I'm back. I didn't realise how hard it was going to be to write about anything other than New York as we count down to our holiday (I don't want to bore you with it before I've even left). So I'm thankful for Fashion Friday, an easy post to help me on my way as I try to get my vibe back :)

Love her or hate her, I do love the Vionnet dress Madonna wore to the Venice Film Festival last night.

Image from here

Just something about the colour combo I really like.

Nicolex

Orange Obsession

2011-08-22T11:47:00.000+10:00

Do you ever surprise yourself by liking something you didn't think was in your taste palette? I REALLY love this Laura Ashley fabric and on no level did I think I was an orange person (clearly I'm embracing my inner coral Bec). If the passion doesn't subside, I am definitely covering a "statement" chair in it next year when we do our extension.

Hortense Orange

Their Colinton armchair and footstool.

I feel like I hardly know myself.
Nicolex

Carnell Estate

2011-08-22T10:21:00.000+10:00

Welcome to the grand Scottish estate Brangelina and their brood (such a tired way to describe them I know but is their a better expression?) are calling home for the next little while. The 16th Century 'house' is set within extensive gardens and park lands which I imagine give them the privacy they desire from the locals.

Image from here

The grounds are just so beautiful, and wouldn't it be lovely to spend a winter like this. You can read more about the history of the estate here if you're interested.

Nicolex

Tuesday Torture

2011-08-16T10:36:00.000+10:00

Well you don't have to be Sherlock to work out there haven't been any weight loss posts for a couple of weeks so I'm here to tell you I haven't given up. I'm still exercising and eating as sensibly as I can but have given myself a fortnight off from the meetings, they were driving me nuts. Just needed a break.

Image from here

I'm going back next week so you can hold me to that!
Nicolex

Decorating Mistakes

2011-08-16T10:29:00.000+10:00

I thought I'd share a list of decorating mistakes from House Beautiful today. I'm always up for some good ideas and I liked what the designers interviewed had to say.

Overzealous Decorative Painting.
Decorative painting can be a beautiful addition but you have to know when to stop! Four feature walls in a small space is not OK. Mary Douglas Drysdale says "brilliant painting is elegant and polished, but go too far and you end up with vulgarity".

Image from here

Bright Overhead Lighting
There's nothing worse than feeling like you're on stage shrouded in spotlight! Barclay Butera recommends using dimmers and soft white bulbs, "lighting shouldn't wash down on you, it's harsh and unflattering".

Image from here

Single Source Lighting
And while we're on the topic of lighting, a single light source is a no-go-zone as well. The key to good lighting is layering it at different heights. Alex Tanksley says, "don't rely on only one kind of light source. Mix a variety of overhead and floor or table lamps".

Image from here

Furniture Pushed Up Against Walls
Don't set furniture up as though you're waiting for a main act in the centre. Furniture placed around the wall creates a seating arrangement that makes conversation difficult. Whitney Stewart believes that the guiding principle should be to "create intimacy, how can you have a conversation when you have to shout across the room?" When setting up a room she imagines the sofa talking to the chairs and the chairs talking to each other. I like that.

Image from here

Out-of-Proportion Lamps

Lamps that are wildly out of proportion on either ends of a sofa drive David Kleinberg crazy. "Don't get too creative with lamps, keep it simple".

Image from here

Karate-chopped Pillows

Don't over fuss with your living room pillow arrangement. Steven Sclaroff can't live with karate-chopped pillows, "that look would never occur in pillow nature". Pillows have a nature now? No, but I agree, don't like the karate-chop look either (though would never have thought to describe it so perfectly).

Image from here

Hope you're all having a nice day :)

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-08-12T23:35:00.001+10:00

They got married a little while ago now but at last some more of Kate Moss' wedding photos are out in the latest issue of American Vogue. If you're lucky to have Mario Testino as the official photographer you'd be hoping to get back some pretty amazing shots of the day.

Their take on Mick and Bianca Jagger's famous photo.

Image from here

Jamie & Kate, their take on the garden of Eden?

Image from here

The wedding party.

Image from here

Their outfits.

Kate and her dad with Lila.

Image from here

LOVE her shoes!

Image from here

Famous friends.

Image from here

Images from here

Image from here

There are more pictures here and of course in the September issue of Vogue.

Nicolex

Summer Espadrilles

2011-08-12T17:40:00.000+10:00

Just as I'm planning my NY shopping list, this arrived in my inbox

If you insist Jimmy.

Nicolex

Willis

2011-08-08T22:40:00.000+10:00

I get it Tilly.

Nicx

I Heart Planning

2011-08-08T22:16:00.000+10:00

I am the original list maker (have I ever mentioned that I once found a list I had written of, wait for it, LISTS THAT NEEDED TO BE WRITTEN! True story.) SO it was only natural that a trip this momentous was going to send me into overdrive. My tour de force has to be the planner that has blossomed on our lounge room wall. The colour-coded post-its have been arranged and rearranged many times over since this photo was taken and I can tell you, while I am exhausting myself (and probably Mr. B as well) I am having the most fun!

I still can't quite believe that the planets have aligned and we're finally going! Today I caught up with a friend I'd worked with 10 years ago and she asked me if I'd been to New York yet (I sometimes forget how long I've been prattling on about it for). It was so exciting to be able to say, "You know what, I'm going in 6 weeks time!". Boo-yah! (Not quite sure who I'm saying that for but it felt like a Boo-yah moment when I typed it).

Nicolex

A Few of GP's Favourite Things

2011-08-08T18:15:00.000+10:00

In case GOOP wasn't enough (and I am actually a fan lest my snide tone convey otherwise) GP has Oprahfied herself and graced us with a list of things she can't live without. Here are some of them:

Seasonal Flowers - she likes single-variety posies, I have to agree. Am not one for arrangements and don't get me started on the ubiquitous filler Baby's Breath!

Image from Elle Decor

Charles Edward Star Lanterns - these I do like, I even like her description of where they are in her home, despite it being a little corny - "I hung three of these at different levels in the stair hall so that we could pass them on our way up to bed at night".

Image from Elle Decor

Juxtaposed Religion Shelf - the shelf itself is pretty funky and of course Gwyneth being Gwyneth had to add, "built-in slots hold holy books...all at the same level, which is how I like to think about religion". Yawn.

Image from Elle Decor

Cloth-bound Penguin Classics - now these I love! Have bought them before as gifts and they're beautiful.

Image from Elle Decor

YUBZ Retro Handset - perhaps not the most portable handset but certainly very cool.

Image from Elle Decor

There you have it. For the complete list visit Elle Decor here and decide which of GP's favourites is your favourite?

Nicolex

Architectural Digest: September Issue

2011-08-05T12:14:00.001+10:00

Well the September issue of AD has been out for a few days now so most of you will know that the personal retreat of Mr & Mrs Cool themselves is on the cover.

Image from AD

Their adobe-style home was designed by Stephen Samuelson.

Image from AD

The living room and the view it rolls out into really does take your breath away.

Image from AD

The bedroom terrace.

Image from AD

The family gathers at the front of their home.

Image from AD

Obviously there are more pictures to pore over in the issue itself so grab yours and settle in.

Nicolex

Vanity Fair: September Issue

2011-08-03T19:06:00.000+10:00

Jennifer Lopez is smoking up the cover of September's Vanity Fair.

Oh, and they've also go the scoop on her split. If you're interested. I'm not.
Nicolex

Tuesday Torture

2011-08-03T13:02:00.000+10:00

No news is not necessarily good news, according to the WW scales I have put on 200g this week :(

That is all.

Nicolex

I Heart NY

2011-07-29T10:26:00.001+10:00

Sorry for the rather lacklustre posting this week but I think I've got a good excuse...

...after years and years and YEARS of dreaming (and I do mean that literally, I have walked the streets of Manhattan in my sleep) we have decided to go to New York for a holiday.

Image from here

I am utterly consumed by our plans and have been able to concentrate on little else. I guess you could say "I'm lost between the moon and New York City" ;)

Nicolex

Tuesday Torture

2011-07-27T12:49:00.001+10:00

Thanks to an uncooperative computer last night it's a Wednesday afternoon post...

...well, from the depths of despair last week to the heights of euphoria this week, I lost a whopping 1.9kg (!). This brings my total loss to 10.6kg meaning I am over a third of the way there. Ecstatic!

Naturally I'm more than happy to post that graph this week

I also got to my 10% (as in I'd lost 10% of the weight I first weighed in at) which is one of the goals WW likes to celebrate. Of course it was excruciatingly mortifying answering questions about my loss, what I am doing and how all this is making me feel in front of the group (which of course was exceptionally large yesterday evening) BUT still a small price to pay for the loss itself!

So the moral of the story, does there have to be one? Well for me it's DON'T GIVE UP ON YOURSELF! No matter, how many bad days or sometimes even weeks you have, don't throw the towel in altogether, keep plodding away. I fight with myself every single day as I try not to give in to food whims & fancies and every single day it's a battle to put on my sneakers and go for a walk. Yes, I've had a good week this time but last week was bloody terrible and who knows if this week will turn out how I hope it will?! So for me it boils down to this, if I make an effort more of the time than I don't, even if that only tips the balance slightly in my favour, in the end I will lose weight.

Wow, I really did get a bit evangelical this time didn't I! Terribly sorry, don't mean to be, just v chuffed and feeling the love today :)

Nicolex

Monday Metamorphosis

2011-07-25T20:33:00.000+10:00

There's little I like more than a good transformation so have a look at these three from Jack Mitchell Construction.

You can hardly believe some of them are the same house.

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-07-22T16:21:00.000+10:00

This week in fashion:

Kate Winslet took over from Angelina Jolie as the official face of St. John.

Image from here

Miranda Kerr met up with movie mogul Harvey Weinstein in a teeny tiny green mini. She looks great and will probably get the part!

Image from here

Katie Holmes was sultry on the cover of Spanish Vogue...

Image from here

...while Claudia Schiffer was mysterious for German Vogue.

Image from here

Karl Lagerfeld's unveiled the first pictures of his cut-price collection for Macy's.

Images from here

Gwyneth was unveiled as the new face of Coach.

Image from here

Ivanka Trump brought home little Arabella Rose in a blue maxi dress. FYI, how cute is the pink detail on Arabella's outfit.

Images from here

We saw pictures of the wedding dress of Ralph Lauren's daughter Dylan was unveiled in Vogue. According to Andre Leon Talley it was a handmade duchess satin. silk tulle, Georgette embroidered dress with a tiered train. It's prob a bit more frou frou than were used to seeing from Ralphie BUT if ever there were a time to be extravagant it has to be when your only daughter gets married!

Image from here

Happy weekend everyone!
Nicolex

Enzo Mari: La Mela

2011-07-20T20:00:00.000+10:00

Along with the stencilled baskets and the I-want-it-checkered table, it was Enzo Mari's La Mela, (the apple in case you haven't already worked it out) print that really stood out in Hank Azaria's playroom the other day.

Image from AD

I was trying to recall where else I'd seen it when I remembered it was in the Bridgehampton kitchen of SJP as featured in Elle Decor a few years ago.

Image from Elle Decor

It seems she's not the only one who likes the print Enzo created in 1963 for Danese Milano.

Image from The Boo & The Boy

Image from An Apple a Day

Image from Kitka Design

Image from New York Social Diary

Image from here

How about you? What do you think of it?

If you bought one here, where would you hang it at your place?

Nicolex

Tuesday Torture

2011-07-19T19:14:00.000+10:00

I put 600g on this week and I'm pretty bloody frustrated to be honest. It's not gracious at all as you've all been unbelievably supportive but I feel too flat to go into the why why why and the sight of that damn graph will send me over the edge I'm sure.

What you should know is that I haven't given up and I am going to try harder this week but I have certainly given up talking about it for today.

Nicolex

At Home: Hank Azaria

2011-07-18T05:46:00.000+10:00

The August issue of AD takes us inside the home of Hank Azaria and a big thank you to the ladies over at Casa Trez Chic for alerting me to the feature. The Monteroy Colonial style home was built in 1932.

I love the custom made monster couches (how long are they!) from Zimmer + Rohde in the living room.

This is the room that sucked me in to the article, in particular, the chair. I want it.

The carrara marble bench top on the island is probably my favourite feature in the kitchen. I don't know if the rest if really works for me.

Hank's home office where he keeps his Emmys (do you spy them off in the background there?) Must confess though, I'm not crazy about plaid.

The checkered pattern on the Danish farm table in the play room is fabelagtig and I am sure I have seen that Enzo Mari apple print in other homes of the rich and famous (you know I'll be off on a hunt now don't you).

The master bedroom.

The master bathroom with Carolina Irving wallpaper.

An outdoor living room, so lovely.

The barn...

...it also displays celluloids featuring the characters Hank does the voices for in The Simpsons.

All images from AD

Hank outside the front of his Bel Air home in California.

Image from AD

There's quite a few more photos and of course the full article over here if you want to see and read more.

Nicolex

The Reading Group

2011-07-17T18:29:00.000+10:00

The other night I finished reading The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul, which is the July read for my book club. Yes, I am one of those nerds. I'd been searching for a reading group to join (my local library told me there was a waiting list of 10+ people for theirs. Mercy, what are they reading in there?) when a friend started one up right under my nose :)

So, my reading group aspirations are simple: I'm not expecting to like all the selections, it's not the point - I want to be exposed to books and authors that aren't on my radar and to be challenged by ideas and issues I don't normally think about. Oh, and a great cup of coffee (vino anyone?) when we meet to discuss the book.

Now, there are 18 members in our group and with our licorice-all-sorts personalities I can't help but wonder if something like this could happen one day?

Cartoon by Gary Howland for the New York Times

Imagine.

Nicolex

Lonny: July/August Issue

2011-07-15T18:34:00.001+10:00

As most of you probably already know the new issue of Lonny magazine came out a few days ago. Is it OK to say I was a little underwhelmed with it? It's usually so full of enticing images and decor but this not time, not so much...of course there was some good in it so I'll share it with you.

One of the first things that grabbed my attention was the brief history of the Art Deco movement. As I love the architecture (I still say the Chrysler Building is by far the most magnificent testament to this era) and especially lighting I was eager to soak up the facts:

The style came of age between the two world wars, specifically in the April of 1925.
Although it has modernist origins it is highly informed by traditional design.
It is characterised by taut geometric lines and arches.

Caitlin McGauley painting illustrating the era on pp 63 & 64

While the colours/patterns are not for me, I LOVE these gigantic floor cushions.

pp 76 & 77

I thought Ruthie Sommers tips for transforming a fixer-upper on p157 were great:

Buy great artwork.
Fill it with things you love.
Create tablescapes and collect books.
Seek out high-quality investment pieces.
Throw many a party with lots of happy people.

I like the thought/presentation that's gone into this drinks tray.

p189

I'm a little bit crazy about these mirrored frames.

pp 218 & 219

And that sadly was it :( Am happy to be proven wrong if you can point out anything fab that I've missed but until then I wait patiently for an improvement in the next issue.

Nicolex

Fashion Friday

2011-07-15T18:34:00.000+10:00

This week in fashion...

Nicole Kidman, Liz Hurley & Brooklyn Decker glammed it up in red...

Images from here

Paris Hilton and Serena Williams hammed it up in pink...

Images from here

Cameron Diaz & Cheryl Cole kept it casual...

Images from here

And Christie Brinkley kept it coy.

Image from here

Wishing everyone a fabulously fashionable weekend!
Nicolex

Vogue & The City

2011-07-13T17:16:00.000+10:00

I am nothing if not a diehard SJP fan so you can imagine the euphoria when I found out that she was next month's Vogue cover girl and that Mario Testino had photographed the entire family. Of course I had to share the fabulosity.

Image from here

Naturally SJP and Vogue go way back.

Hurry up and fly to me o'seas issue :)

Nicolex

Tuesday Torture

2011-07-13T00:16:00.000+10:00

Well I lost 1.4kg tonight which brings my total loss to 9.3kg. It was a relief to lose again after putting on for the last 2 weeks in a row. I walked 4 times last week and apart from a few shockers was really quite good with my eating, so I'm glad for the great loss.

It's a particularly good loss because I went under the 85kg mark which of course means reward time, ding ding ding! Every 5kg remember, so tomorrow night I will be sashaying out to dinner with my new mesh bag from Oroton. I like it, I like it a lot.

It feels like I've loved these bags forever, I got my very first Oroton mesh purse in Grade 2 (I know!) and the spell has never worn off. If you're in the market for something shiny and new it is a FABULOUS time to buy one of these beauties as they are $70 off at the moment! That is a discount not to be scoffed at. Have a look here.

I'm back (and just a little bit sparkly).

Nicolex

2011-07-12T15:17:00.000+10:00

Today is the 450th anniversary of St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow's Red Square and I thought it's magnificent colours were worth sharing.

Image from National Geographic here

Absolutely no disrespect intended of course but I can seriously imagine Willy Wonka waving from one of those windows. Just amazing.

Nicolex

Royal Tour Fashion: Day 11

2011-07-12T15:04:00.000+10:00

Well as enthralling as it has been following the fashion minutiae of the royal tour to North America you will be relieved to know that it finally drew to a close yesterday and Will & Kate are safely back home in the UK (I only wish I had the pictures to prove that less you fear these tedious fashion posts go on forever).

A quick review of Kate's many fabulous outfits and what I should have done in the first place - a grand collection of pictures at the end.

All images from here

Go in peace,
Nicolex

All in a Day's Work

2011-07-11T17:23:00.000+10:00

Bookcase organised by colour New boots bought

Recently acquired painting hung Library books returned

Nicolex

Find Of The Day

2011-07-11T13:06:00.000+10:00

This very sweet pink cherend pear from Brisbane boutique Jessie Lauren.

It's $24 over here where there is also a lovely ginger jar I am toying with getting for the kitchen.

Nicolex

At Home: Ali Wentworth

2011-07-11T12:44:00.000+10:00

The other night while catching up on some blog reading I enjoyed Fabiana's living room quiz over at Ciao Newport Beach. Of course I found a favourite which turned out to be from the Washington DC home of Ali Wentworth and George Stephanopoulos. Naturally I had to go searching for more photos of their home.

Now as previously confessed, I am not a lover of purple but something about this room really works for me. I love the built-ins, the contrasting white mantle and of course the grey velvet sofa. The cocktail table is a vintage army cot topped with glass and Ali used fabric dye to create the patterns on the wool rug (just thought you should know this as it's rather ingenious don't you think).

Image from here

I love how Moroccan pouffes work just as well in a sophisticated space as they do in a bohemian one. If you love their look, you can pick them up here in Oz from Ada & Darcy and Table Tonic or from John Derian in the US.

Image from here

OK so I personally can't come at all the shells and coral but they are a collection Ali has been adding to since childhood, so I get it.

Image from here

Quite a masculine but very warm family room. I love the wall panelling.

Image from here

The other end of the family room.

Image from here

There's a lot to love about this dining room - again the built-ins, the wall colour, another beautiful mantle (and is that a Juju hat I spy Louise), the chairs (!), the old table...

Image from here

The faux python console was found on eBay. I seriously heart eBay!

Image from here

The chairs in the office are flea market finds. I think sadly my obsessive personality would not cope with the stuffing falling out of one like that but I want the wall colour for my very own, it's Winter Solstice by Benjamin Moore. Yet another great mantle adorns this room (that's 4 so far peeps).

Image from here

Love the bedside table and upholstered bench seat at the end of the bed here in the main bedroom.

Image from here

Ali and her daughter Harper in the living room.

Image from here

If like me you missed the original article you can see more pictures and read it here.

Nicolex

Royal Tour Fashion: Day 10

2011-07-10T22:36:00.000+10:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive for a charity polo match in Santa Barbara earlier today. Kate is wearing a hand-painted silk dress by Jenny Packham.

Image from here

It was LK Bennett again for the shoes (this time the Sliver Sandal in dark taupe) and the now quite familiar Natalie clutch.

Image from here Image from here

Two different versions of the Jenny Packham dress on the catwalk last year.

Image from here Image from here

I thought Prince William deserved a special mention here as he does look rather spiffy in his polo gear, don't you think.

Image from here

Then in the evening Kate wears Alexander McQueen to a Bafta event at the Belasco Theatre in Los Angeles.

Image from here

The well-heeled sparkle provided by a pair of silver Jimmy Choo Vamps is bound to silence the the naysayers who have been seriously distressed with some of her mummsy shoe choices to date. Just for good measure, the Ubai clutch is Jimmy Choo as well.

Now, for those of you who are as exhausted as I am with my royal tour fashion posts (as much as I do love the fashion, it is seriously changing me reporting on this everyday!), rest easy as the tour is almost over!

Phew.

Nicolex

Artist Adoration: Anne Harwell

2011-07-10T21:13:00.000+10:00

A few months ago I saw this post on Anne Harwell's blog and thought what a delightful idea to have a painting of the the tiny (5 pews either side is teeny tiny!) chapel we got hitched in by candlelight a couple of years ago. I wasted no time getting in touch with Anne who was effortlessly easy to work with (seriously people send her the photo and she'll send you the painting) and before too long I was excitedly unwrapping my order.

I'm sure most of you are well acquainted with her fabulous work but just in case you aren't (where have you been?) here are some prints from her etsy store, including the Orange Chair Silhouette that hung on the wall in It's Complicated, (as per Nancy Meyer's request no less!).

I rather like this one too.

Courtney's Favorite Things

Thanks for my lovely painting Anne, I love it and can't wait to have it framed and add it to the picture wall in our room.

Nicolex

Royal Tour Fashion: Day 9

2011-07-09T21:21:00.000+10:00

Kate arrived in California wearing a grey Roksanda Ilincic dress which beautifully complimented the red, white and blue posey handed to her by the Governor's wife when they arrived.

Image from here

For a reception at the home of the Consul General she changed into easily my favourite outfit of the tour so far - a gorgeous lawn Maja dress by Diane von Furstenberg. Loved it so much, if it had still been available in my goal (dream?) size I would have bought it tonight here.

Image from here

100% silk woven with flat gold-brushed buttons down the back.

Image from here

Was momentarily tempted to buy it in an even smaller (but available) size (forget dream size we're talking fantasy size) but was fortunately jolted back into reality by the sane thought that it was perhaps a little too much money to put down for a dress I may never (nor should I!) fit into.

Nicolex