t e s o r o d e l v a l l e s o l a r

Following on the heels of ideabooks that looked in exteriors covered in glass and wood, this one introduces a couple of projects that use metal in some intriguing ways. In architecture, metal can refer to a wide selection of substances with similar attributes — metallic glint, hardness, elasticity, magnetism, conduction and so on — but that nevertheless have special looks. These include zinc, copper, steel and aluminum. These metals, usually alloyed with other components, can be left fairly normal, oxidized to put in a layer of coated or rust to take on other characteristics. The subsequent jobs show a wide variety of uses of metal in architecture. The construction zone, ltd.. The Logan residence by Jones Studio features walls of metal (this picture and next) as well as glass and concrete. Nevertheless, the gold “aspen leaves” overhead steal the show. They provide a memorable transition and shade between inside and…

Getting organized is something of a passion of mine. Yes, I consider cleaning out my junk drawer a leisure activity — I love labels and also have been known to put my books in rainbow sequence, so make fun if you need to! But over the years I have commissioned a simple routine for paring down and producing order in the home, and I wish to discuss these 10 tips with you now. Before we dig in, it’s important to know what we are up against. What is clutter exactly? Surplus stuff, right? Well sure, but more than that, clutter is a sign of procrastination. It is the bicycle you have been meaning to have repaired, the books that need to be returned to the library, the most hideous vase from Aunt Mildred you can not bear to throw away, along with the heaping piles of paperwork that require sorting….

What it is: From classic furnishings to floral-print cloths, traditional style sometimes gets a bad rap because fusty and outdated. But that is missing the point. While it’s true that this look takes its inspiration in the past, it’s about comfort. Every element feels comfortable, correctly placed and predictable — in a fantastic way. Why it works: There is a reason that conventional decorating has flourished for a long time. It promises warmth and welcome, and it provides. Refined furnishings, mannerly fabrics, dignified colors and a feeling of order make this cherished style simple to live with. What’s more attractive than that? You will love it if… Chaos makes you queasy. Your favorite films are untouched by Technicolor. You’ve vacationed in precisely the exact same spot since you’re 12. You swoon over Blue Willow and Wedgwood. Your perfect day involves a bookshelf filled with classics along with a tumbler of…

Finding the right chair to complement a space can be an intimidating job. Instead of looking for one which blends in with your current decor, why not include a chair which makes a statement? — Danyelle from Dandee Designs CB2 Parlour Bold Seat – $799 I have never seen a lot of color on a single chair. If your area needs personality, this guy has plenty of it. West Elm Ryder Rocking Chair – $599 I don’t think I have noticed a rocker this sleek. It appears so comfortable that I’d be tempted to put it in the bedroom, but it’s so beautiful I would like it out where everyone can see it. Anthropologie Howell Wingback, Soleil Linen – $1,898 This really is actually the not-so-classic, classic wingback chair. Anthropologie Lunet Chair – $1,698 The fact that this chair is made from reclaimed French jute sacks gives it a lot…

When the second season of Downton Abbey expired on PBS Sunday it delivered in its uniquely English Romantic way, giving us a high-brow period drama that feels wickedly low-brow. The societal intrigue, period costumes, and those Edwardian insides all make my heart swell. Following is a brief glance at some essential characters and room elements that could be inspired by these as we see the story unfold during World War I. Scenes at the literary halls of Downton Abbey, an English country estate, were filmed at Highclere Castle. The imposing structure is a part of its own on the series that follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and the servants with whom they share close ties. Windsor Companies The majority of us will be fortunate enough to tour an Edwardian castle let alone reside in one, but we can take cues in the layouts of English country houses…