Why shouldn’t your dinnerware be as stylish as you are? Whether you’re looking for the perfect wedding china or you want to upgrade from your first dinner set, Alchemy Fine Home has the luxury dinnerware of your dreams. Lots of gilded edges, whimsical touches, and shapely designs are featured in this awesomely curated collection of fine table top decor.
Founder Vanessa Van Wieren has scoured the globe for design driven decor, perfect for entertaining, that your guests will be gushing about. Sure to impress, all of Alchemy Fine Home’s decor items have a timeless appeal. Choose from modern minimalist design or more vibrant pieces. If you’ve got an eye for detail, you’ll love everything on this site! Visit https://alchemyfinehome.com to shop all their stunning decor.
Italy has been lingering on my bucket list for far too long. It’s one of those places you want to explore with a loved one – the perfect honeymoon destination, a place where Hollywood’s elite love to exchange vows, a country overflowing with ancient settings perfect for a romantic interlude. While there are plenty of high profile resorts to choose from, here are five unique Italian hotels you need to experience on your next visit.
Ca’ Sagredo — Venice
Steps from the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge, this Venetian palazzo once was the home of Nicolò Sagredo, Venice’s ambassador to Rome in the 17th century. The well preserved 15th century estate features rare paintings by famous 17th and 18th century artists and has been designated a national monument. From the decadent frescoed entrance hall and lounge area to the 42 bedrooms and suites and the waterside L’Alcova restaurant, the hotel is teeming with beauty. For an experience in fine Italian city living and locally sourced dining, the Ca’Sagredo is an unforgettable stay.
Nestled on the island of Pantelleria, Sicily’s largest satellite island, Sikelleria is a tranquil getaway for those seeking luxurious R&R. Enjoy the natural hot springs with rejuvenating mud from the island’s volcano. Marvel at the round dammusi dwellings, whose roofs were designed over one thousand years ago by the Arabs to collect fresh rainwater. Live in one of the twenty suites set along the exquisite blue Mediterranean Sea. This hidden gem redefines contemporary and traditional architecture for a truly luxurious, yet peaceful stay.
Once owned by the powerful Bardi family, this renovated 15th century villa sits on the hillside of Fissile with views of both Florence and Tuscany. Only a 15-minute ride from the center of Florence, guests can maintain a close proximity to the city, while enjoying the tranquility of country life. The villa often feels like a museum with its 19th century frescoes, original fireplaces and even an ancient Venetian sarcophagus cum bathtub. An entry-level room will garner you a view of the manicured formal gardens. While a dome view room or above will offer a fabulous look at Florence. It’s built for those seeking a sumptuous experience. Laid back travelers need not register.
Originally a working farm, this hotel is located only a short distance outside Ostuni village. The property is know for its six ancient trulli houses, conical stone dwellings built in the 16th century. The Masseria has been lovingly refurbished with restored antiques and original fabrics. Known for its peaceful and comforting environment, it has become a popular oasis for those in search of serenity.
Pure romance awaits you in the candlelit caves of this boutique Italian hotel. Now a Unesco World Heritage site, the property features eighteen prehistoric cave dwellings in Southern Italy’s Sassi di Matera. Every room is a unique experience with rustic furnishings and artisan stonework reminiscent of the caves’ ancient roots. To provide luxury standards and accommodations, the site was dismantled so that it could be piped and wired. Each stone was then restored to its original place. What a commitment to restoration. The lighting has been noted to be dim. So be prepared for abundant romance!
Where my aunties at? Urban Dictionary has defined the South Asian “aunty” as everything from the “Indian-Sub Continent equivalent of a MILF” to an “annoying desi middle aged woman who likes to spew virtue to younger desis. Most potent in the company of other aunties.” (A desi is a person of South Asian descent.) Canadian graphic artist Meera Sethi provides a more nuanced portrayal by celebrating the personal style and honoring unique character of these vibrant women in “Upping the Aunty”. Through photographs and paintings, Sethi provides a platform for the iconic aunties who play an important role in shaping immigrant South Asian communities.
Paintings in the collection “Upping the Aunty”
Socks with sandals – popular aunty garb
The fanny pack aunty
Sethi takes her project to the masses with Upping the Aunty: the Colouring Book. Coloring books are no longer just for kids. This coloring book features the fashion, fun and fearlessness of the aunty generation. It’s a great way to connect with your inner child and South Asian culture.
Upping the Aunty cover art
Her photographs and paintings are on display from May 31 – July 15, 2016 at Daniels Spectrum in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. And for those of you who would like to follow her project as it develops, visit her Tumblr. If you’d like to participate in the project, post a photo on your social network account with the hashtag #uppingtheaunty and tell her about it at [email protected].
Purchase Upping the Aunty: The Colouring Book here for $20 CAD (about $16 USD).
When decorating the perfect bedroom, most people immediately invest in a high quality mattress, a statement headboard and a few gorgeous throw pillows to make it all pop. One purchase that can make or break the final experience is the sheets. You may immediately think fine Egyptian cotton is an extravagant purchase. And it usually is. But Rich and Vicki Fulop set about to make a set of beautiful and ultra comfortable sheets more affordable. They created Brooklinen, which manufactures high quality bedding that is also cost-efficient. A set of fine-threaded Egyptian cotton sheets (1 flat sheet, 1 fitted sheet & 2 pillowcases) starts at $99.
The team at Brooklinen, which also includes co-founder Dave Fortune, found a gap in the market. When they couldn’t find the product they were looking for at the price point they were willing to pay, they created it themselves. This is often how many creative startups begin.
They have three points to their approach:
Products have to be of high quality.
They need to manufacture responsibly.
Prices should be accessible.
To accomplish this, they learned everything about the business from the ground up including how bed sheets are made, supply chain management and quality control. By cutting out the middlemen and identifying unique opportunities within the manufacturing process, they were able to achieve their goals.
Their quality bedding has a minimalistic feel, which makes it incredibly versatile when mixing and matching with your own bedding. Styles range from solid white, grey or navy to classic prints like stripes and windowpane checks, which also come mixed and matched. Sheets are available in a percale or a sateen weave. Also sold are comforters, pillow inserts, blankets and more.
Have you tried Brooklinen or a similar company? I’d love to know what you think.
I bought this desk a few years ago during the Parsons desk craze. While not a Parsons desk, it came quite close and was much more budget friendly. But it lacked the lacquer finish needed to achieve a glam look. I added a coat of lacquer paint and within a short period of time, the desk began to attract stains like magazine ink and coffee rings. Paint even rubbed off on the edges. When Ace Hardware contacted me about partnering together for its “31 Days of Color” campaign, I knew this was the perfect chance to give my desk a facelift.
I visited Ace Hardware’s online Paint Studio (http://www.thepaintstudio.com) to get color inspiration for my project. In fact, every day in March Ace Hardware is uncovering the Color of the Day and a chance to win a $10,000 paint makeover or daily gift cards.
My desk is located in my bedroom, which has a palette of navy, yellow and grey. I knew I wanted to add color to the desk, and yellow always makes me happy. So I opted for Asian Tea by Clark + Kensington, today’s Color of the Day. This particular yellow has golden undertones, which make it extra chic.
For this project, I decided to give the desk a midcentury modern makeover by adding hairpin legs, available here (similar). By painting them in Asian Tea, I thought it would give the desk the colorful twist I sought. I also had an idea brewing on how to liven up the desk with a secret pop of color.
I visited my local Ace Hardware in St. Louis with a general idea in mind. But I needed some extra guidance. The very first person I talked to was able to help me with the exact products I needed. In fact, he had just completed a similar project for his daughter, so he knew the tools to buy and tips to follow. His friendliness and enthusiasm for my project boosted my confidence. After getting my paint mixed, I was ready to go.
Once I set down my drop cloth and removed the original legs from my desk, I set to work on removing the layer of lacquer paint I had applied years ago. To do this, I needed the following products:
First I donned chemical-resistant gloves, critical for handling paint stripper. I used a brush to quickly apply the stripper all over the surface of the desk. After 15 minutes, I scraped the paint off the surface with the putty knife. To fully remove the paint, I did this process twice. Make sure you remove as much as possible to ensure a smooth surface. Use the stripping pad to scrub off any excess paint. It will come off in wet clumps. This process cleared the desk of all those pesky stains and such from before. Let the surface dry for two hours before applying any paint.
In the meantime, I used a brush to paint the new hairpin legs in Asian Tea with two coats. Allow at least two hours before painting a new coat. After I painted the legs, I returned to the desk and painted it with two coats of Clark + Kensington Paint + Primer in One Semi-Gloss Enamel, which I thought provided plenty of coverage.
For the fun part of the project, I decided to paint stripes inside the drawers. That way whenever I open the drawers, there would be a fun surprise to brighten my day. I laid down painter’s tape vertically across each drawer to prevent bleeding and ensure straight lines.
Finally, I drilled holes under the corners of the desk and screwed in the hairpin legs. Make sure you use plenty of elbow grease. It’s definitely a good arm workout!
Here is the before and after:
A peek inside the drawers:
Another angle:
I’m excited to enjoy my new desk. With the wheels, I can move it around too! I love the way the Asian Tea legs complement the chevron rug. What do you think?
Another day, another color to inspire your home projects. Every day in March, Ace is unveiling a featured color and giving you a chance to win a $10,000 room makeover! To learn more, visit thepaintstudio.com.
Have you seen the new Anthropologie Home Spring 2016 catalogue? So much savvy styling has me jonesing to redecorate. Every corner is curated to perfection with dainty details, colorful murals, gilded edges and thoughtfully placed pops of color.
Get tips on how to style your entryway from Kendra Smoot, a San Francisco based designer with a background in prop styling. She knows exactly how to place objects that create a story and draw the eye in. Be inspired by the way they style boldly printed walls with everything from luxe furniture to earthy pieces. Plan your room around a major statement piece like a tufted damask Chesterfield sofa or a watercolor printed velvet oversized ottoman.Turn heads with a hand-beaded chandelier or an ethereal wardrobe carved with clever creatures.
I am certainly jealous of the home decor buyers at Anthropologie. I’d jump at the chance to travel the world for the perfect pieces. Now if only I could win the lottery and mold my space into the fairytale lifestyle that is Anthropologie Home.
All images courtesy of Anthropologie.
For more home decor inspiration, check out this DIY video to create your own gold geometric art.
Doing nothing is so nice. I spent part of Sunday in bed catching up on a little light reading and enjoying not so light snacks. My bed is one of those things that I can’t get enough of. Why get up when you can sink further into oblivion without a care in the world? The minute you pop up, the world awaits and sometimes I want to keep all that chaos at bay for a little while longer. That’s what a lazy Sunday is for.
By the way, have you caught the new issue of Elle Magazine? It’s so nice to see the cover of a major U.S. fashion magazine feature diverse women like Priyanka Chopra, Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson (also shared with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Olivia Wilde). Why is this such a big deal in 2016? It should be the status quo by now. Apparently the number of women of color featured in this issue is the same number featured in all of 2015 by Elle. At least it’s progress. One thing that still bothers me: why do women of color in the U.S. have to share the cover in order to get on one? I can’t wait until at least half the issues each year feature a woman of color who gets that cover all to herself! What do you think?
My secret to organizational success: write it down. If it isn’t written down, it isn’t happening. And that’s why a planner is a handy sidekick. There are so many colorful, elegant and motivational planners out there. Here are a few of my favorite 2016 planners to keep things light, easy and breezy.
Kick things off this year on the right note with one of these awesome 2016 planners, sure to fire up your creativity as you track important dates, appointments and notes throughout the year. Which one is your favorite?
I am pretty biased when it comes to Indian hospitality. The best stay of my life was at the Taj Rambagh Palace in their Polo Suite. It was the most luxurious experience I ever had with its vaulted archways, historic tapestries, his and hers dressing rooms, chocolates for days and a phone in the bathroom. I was also 13 at the time. But it was my first time staying in a palace, a place Princess Diana had also stayed at! So I knew I was in grand company. Once I began traveling in my 20s and early 30s, this type of stay was no longer in my budget. I still wanted the amazing, pinch me I’m dreaming, exotic and unforgettable experience that I knew Indian hospitality could provide. But I wasn’t sure where to begin looking for it. For an authentic experience, sometimes you have to venture off the beaten path to find the kind of memories you’ll keep forever. I teamed up with Tripzuki, an online booking site for “India’s hippest hotels,” to identify 10 affordable Indian hotels that you won’t soon forget. They believe luxury or boutique doesn’t have to be expensive, which is music to my ears.
Before we begin, I wanted to share three reasons why I can trust Tripzuki for booking my stay in India.
Tripzuki’s team personally visits every hotel listed on their site. They only share their favorites so they can vouch for authenticity, quality and rating.
The photos shown are their own because they have been there. What you see is what you get.
Families or individuals own virtually all of the properties listed on the site. Tripzuki knows the proprietors by name and have built a trusted relationship, which they can use to leverage extra deals for the customer.
Here are 10 hotels (in no particular order) vetted by Tripzuki with endless character, charm and hospitality to pamper the discerning traveler.
If you’re visiting Rajasthan, your trip isn’t complete without seeing Jaisalmer, known for its historic fort and austere beauty. Suryagarh is a modern take on the 12th century architecture of the area with its traditional sandstone exterior and luxurious, yet comfortable interior. You’ll feel like a guest of the Raj while mingling with the owner, enjoying service with incredible attention to detail and marveling at the dazzling antiques on display. Rooms start at $138 per night including breakfast.
For a getaway within a getaway, experience Scarlette. Feel as if you’re in the French countryside and recuperate away from the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. The two-story hotel seems more like a home with its intimate spaces, homestyle cooking and curious mix of French and Rajasthani décor. Enjoy one of the most welcoming places in the city starting at $114 per night including breakfast.
Overlooking the picturesque village of Samode is a beautiful palace with unique and alluring spaces to explore at your own leisure. A popular wedding destination, it also offers camel and horse rides in the desert, cooking classes, ballooning, massages and more to delight your inner adventurer. Experience the palace starting at $151 per night including breakfast.
Ever dream of floating across Dal Lake in Kashmir, once touted as heaven on earth? Travel back in time to the splendor and history of Kashmir’s bygone era with your own houseboat. The Butt and Clermont families have been operating these luxurious houseboats since 1947 hosting distinguished guests such as Lord Mountbatten, George Harrison and many foreign correspondents. The houseboats are well known throughout the city with rates starting from as little as $76 including breakfast.
Live like the colonials did in this tropical 350-year-old Portuguese style mansion. Formerly owned by the governor of Macau, this property was modeled on Portuguese homes. In addition to the historic splendor, it also manages to feel like a home full of personality, warmth and laidback charm. Bonus points for the French confections available from local patisserie Delicieux, run by the owner’s partner. Stay at this sweet and stunning abode starting at $80 per night including breakfast.
India’s cities are dominated by 5-star hotel chains, but Delhi is an exception. This luxurious, sophisticated property in New Delhi also hosts one of India’s best restaurants, Indian Accent, and wellness center, Zehen. Rooms can be had for as little as $101 per night including breakfast and taxes.
The desert state of royal Rajasthan is the place to find that quintessential India we all admire. “The Lake City” of Udaipur is well worth a visit, but do yourself a favor and stay just 20 minutes outside of town at this heavenly hilltop hotel. It’s impeccably run with smart, savvy staff with rooms as low as $110 per night. Don’t forget to watch out for the wandering tortoise!
The thing about India is the mind-boggling variety. Nowhere is this more evident than in Himachal Pradesh, where the India you think you know suddenly morphs into something more…alpine. Seetalvan’s mountain view can compete with the best Indian hotels and it’s right in apple country. For that alone, rooms from $79 per night including breakfast and dinner are a snap!
The small state of Goa is one of India’s most famous destinations and has shrugged off the hippy/hedonistic image in recent times. Yab Yum is the coolest property on Ashwem Beach, a serene eco-friendly oasis accommodating families and low key professionals over from London or down from Mumbai. For a funky dome next to one of Goa’s best beaches, $63 per night including breakfast is a steal.
This large, sprawling property occupies what must be one of the best locations on the west coast of India, next to Marari Beach in gorgeous Kerala. Take a backwater cruise, enjoy the white sandy beaches, try a cooking class or get an ayurvedic massage. There’s so much to do here, not to mention awesome food, plenty of space and a high comfort factor. Rates start from $113 per night but it’s worth upgrading to a Garden Pool Villa from $189 per night including breakfast.
Tripzuki offers several options around India starting at $21 and up for adventurous souls looking to chart an unforgettable journey.
Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post, but was written in coordination with Tripzuki. All images are courtesy of Tripzuki.
Custom Mid-Century Modern Furniture by Joybird 
Good Earth Wallcoverings for Nilaya 
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