Dark & chalky greys

Artist and interior designer Monique Meij-Beekman found an old bakery and turned it into a home and studio/shop. The choice of dark and chalky grey walls plus the distressed wood, granite and stone, gives the rooms an austere and mysterious feel. Almost like a monastery. 

You may have seen some of these pics from Monique Meij-Beekman's home before, since they were published in Elle Decoration 2009. But I think they deserve another go. Styled by Monique herself, and photographed by Jan Luijk. All pics from their websites.   

Wabi Sabi Bathroom Inspiration

I'm in desperate need of some new ideas for my bathroom. Something along these lines, I think. Neutral colors and natural materials will give me the simple and relaxed atmosphere I'm looking for. All of these would do fine. Minus the iron stove, I'm afraid. I'd love to have one in the bathroom, but there is no space. 

All images via Pinterest

TrendSpotting 2012. Colortrends #3: Five more shades

This is my third and last post on Pantone's color trends for Spring 2012. All quite beautiful when used in the right space and in the right context. What do you think? Any favorites?? Images from Pinterest and Pantone. 

 Driftwood, a beige-grey blend

 Sweet Lilac, a pinkish lilac hue

 Bellflower, an ornamental purple

Cockatoo, a spirited blue-green

Sodalite Blue, a maritime blue hue. Sodalite is said to help with relaxation. Meditate with a sodalite stone to to improve your ability to let go of everyday concerns and focus on just being.

Wabi Sabi Dining - Naturliga kök & matplatser

Samtliga bilder via Pinterest

2012 got a beautiful start

Hope you had a joyus new years celebration. 

Last night, several Khom Loy lamps silently floated over my house. What a beautiful way to remember our love ones, and at the same time greet the new year. I must confess I prefer these elegant, silent ricepaper lanterns to noisy fireworks. Especially in urban areas... 

Just beautiful! I'm going to get a few for my next party. What's your preference? Fireworks or lanterns?   

If you live in Sweden, you can order them online. 

I got these pics from here and here.

Blurred Vision

Images: 1, 2, via 3, 4, 5, 6

Scandinavian Sky Today at 4 pm

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas

Via pinterest.
More white inspiration here

BlogLove: Les Fifoles

Anne with the blog Les Fifoles, takes the most beautiful pictures. Like these. And write the most beautiful words. She doesn't post often, but if you haven't visited her blog before, head over to Les Fifoles whenever you are in the mood for some visual and linguistic poetry.