gifted and wrapped

I dropped off my last client gift yesterday, sent a parcel overnight courier to my brother and sister-in-law and had my last meeting for the year. I am so close to being done I can almost taste it…and the turkey! I thought I would share with you a few of the things I’ve been working on this season for gifts and wrapping. I truly LOVE this part of Christmas, although as my husband said, “next year we need to start this process in October!”. So true.

The caramels that almost didn’t happen. This is tradition of mine roughly 18 years strong and thanks to my husband who convinced me that they are an important part of our Christmas (although I’m sure it was partly a selfish request!). Three batches and 60 of these little packages later…..

I went for an office theme this year for several of my gifts. Here are a few of the items included in each personalized gift box. Paper weight from West Elm.

I found the above wooden pencils with character words and attributes. Such a thoughtful touch to a daily writing utensil.

A peak at my gift wrapping. I’m known to change it yearly!

I had left over ornaments from the Kids Help Phone Holiday Home tour so I incorporated them into my wrapping.

I bought frames after Christmas last year from Restoration Hardware (majorly on sale of course) and decided I would use them for gift wrapping this year (yes, I plan that far ahead). I printed photos of my girls when they were smaller, they’re still 10 and 5 but they love looking at photos of themselves much younger. Above: my oldest at her 6th birthday party, a Hollywood theme.

I must admit I have help. That’s right, my husband! We have a system: he wraps, I adorn. Here he is trying his hand at ribbon and gift tagging though. He is such a good sport and incredible help. Thanks babe!

Hope all is well in your home as you race to the finish line.

Nyla Free Designs is a full service Calgary Interior Design studio. Our goal is to bring your home to life by revealing your style and infusing unexpected elements of design and detail. If we can help with your project please let us know! See the contact page to get in touch. Nyla Free Designs also offers an online design service through Design in a Box.

barbara barry: indochine

I had the pleasure of listening to and meeting Barbara Barry at Blogfest this past May. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but I have to say this portion of the three day festivities was one of my favourites. It also made me feel better about one of the quirky (to me anyway) things I love to do.

Barbara introduced her new line of Kravet fabrics and trimmings inspired by a recent trip to China. Her presentation included photos taken by her, representing pattern, scale, colour combinations and textures which in turn lead to the creation of her latest collection, Indochine.

I found myself relating to every image. Not because I had been to China but because I take similar photos. Whether close to home or on my travels I am fascinated and inspired by the smallest details, textures, patterns or colour schemes I see around me. Barbara spoke so eloquently about her experience you couldn’t help but be drawn into the romance of each image and how they in turn translated into a fabric or trim. I left the presentation feeling such reassurance, inspiration and on a creative high.

In speaking with Barbara after her presentation I discovered that my snap happy tendencies were good, all good. She encouraged me to continue to take hold of everything that inspired me and to use those creative juices to fuel my work.

As a result, I’m starting a new series on my blog. Drawing inspiration from the photos I have taken I’ll pull together items that portray a similar feeling, or colour scheme in the hopes of inspiring you as well. I’ll be sharing my first one tomorrow so I hope you’ll come back and let me know what you think.

Thank you Barbara for being gracious, inspiring and encouraging with words of expertise and impeccable style. It was a pleasure and absolute highlight to meet you and learn that my crazy photos are worth sharing.

All photos courtesy of Kravet with the exception of the top image which I took during Barbara’s presentation.

Nyla Free Designs is a full service Calgary Interior Design studio. Our goal is to bring your home to life by revealing your style and infusing unexpected elements of design and detail. If we can help with your project please let us know! See the contact page to get in touch.

Nyla Free Designs also offers an online design service through Design in a Box.

summer lovin’: fashion to interiors

Are you hanging on to summer for all it’s worth? I sure am. When I came across this living room with floral fabrics and fresh colours I couldn’t help but wish this season could last forever, okay maybe a few months longer anyway.

I’m going to embrace every ray of sunshine and ounce of warmth over the next six weeks, ignoring the fact that winter will soon be upon us. Thankfully first comes Fall, one of my favorite seasons. In the mean time, show off your painted toe nails while you can and why not add fresh colour or a floral pattern into your decor. It’s certainly not too late and with summer sales on now, it’s less of a dent in your wallet.

Summer 2011 Collection from JCrew via Home Sweet Blog, living room image via Elle Decor

Nyla Free Designs is a full service Calgary Interior Design studio. Our goal is to bring your home to life by revealing your style and infusing unexpected elements of design and detail. If we can help with your project please let us know! See the contact page to get in touch.

Nyla Free Designs also offers an online design service through Design in a Box.

craving black and white stripes

Can I have something with bold black and white stripes? Pretty please? There’s no doubt this combo has been around for decades and clearly it’s not going anywhere. A little goes a long way and mixes with any style. Creating a dynamic addition to any room, article of clothing or backyard accessory, black and white stripes are a fabulous duo. Honestly, it’s perfect anywhere.

Image sources: 1. door, 2. umbrella, 3. dress, 4. front entry, 5. eames lounger and area rug, 6. dress 7. lanterns

Nyla Free Designs is a full service Calgary Interior Design studio. Our goal is to bring your home to life by revealing your style and infusing unexpected elements of design and detail. If we can help with your project please let us know! See the contact page to get in touch.

Nyla Free Designs also offers an online design service through Design in a Box.

inspirations: flowers

I consider myself to be a fairly patient person but I’ve got to be honest, I’m about ready to lose my mind. We’ve had the longest winter EVER and I’m sooooooo ready for some life. One would think I’d be happy that our snow is gone, and don’t get me wrong, I most certainly am. But I want flowers and green grass like, yesterday! Our sunny blue skies aren’t enough for me anymore and unfortunately I have about another month before any floral lovelies begin to wake up from their winter nap and the ground surely is not thawed enough to plant anything new. So in the meantime, because I’m desperate, I may fill my house and self with flowers. I often find therapy in blogging so in an effort to make myself feel better I’m finding inspiration in these lovely floral images. I hope they inspire you too, wherever you are.

I have always loved the Mademoiselle chair from Kartell and with this floral fabric I’m thinking I could have flowers all year long in my kitchen nook. Great idea, don’t you think?

For more floral goodness, pick up a copy of the latest issue of Martha Stewart Living. It’s chock full of colour and life. There….I’m starting to feel better already.

Images: pillow, glass canisters, market flowers (personal photo from the San Fransisco market), ring, necklace, flowers on window sill, floral desktop, hair accessory.

handbag to room: red & white stripes

They say accessories can make all the difference to an outfit and the same can be true in interiors. LOVE this red and white striped handbag. It can take an outfit to a whole new level in no time flat.

Now if you were to apply this same enthusiasm to your decor (and no I’m not just talking about adding a pillow), look at the impact red and white striped wallpaper has in this room. It takes a traditional space and completely transforms it into a playful room with bold stripes and a colourful contrast.

Don’t get me wrong, without the wallpaper this space would still be nice, but try imagining it without and I think you’ll agree that the red and white stripes really make this room sing.

Images: kate spade kennywood small sidney handbag, elledecor

inspiration: how do you keep track of yours?

From a very young age I have gathered and saved images, art cards, photos, business cards, clothing tags and the like. I have several boxes, bins and binders where I keep them, however my collection is growing. As as Interior Designer, I gather inspiration from almost anywhere, whether it be for clients or now also blogging, my stash of cutouts and clippings is growing more than ever.

I love pin boards and the collage of creativity that evolves within them. Whether they show a development of one idea or several, they are inspirational nonetheless and I find myself wanting to know what transpired from them, how often they change and how many people add to them?

The home office of Thomas O’Brien via Elle Decor left, and the studio space of Amsterdam’s Studio Aandacht via the style files.

Inspiration boards in the hallway of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia via the Martha blog.

Artist Geninne’s work space and inspiration board. via Paper Taste Buds

Here is the pin board in my office where I include, images and cutouts, photos, little notes and cards, fabrics and even colouring pages from my girls.

Notebooks are another place to keep thoughts, ideas, sketches and clippings. I love the Moleskine books. Blank, lined, boxed, graphed, whatever your preference they have it. I have always used the graphed notebooks. It’s great for measuring and creating quick floor plans. As well, it keeps my notes nice and neat within the lines.

Here is a stack of mine. I keep all my client details in here and it is in my handbag almost everyday. You never know when you might need to jot down some important information.

Mine aren’t quite as pretty as these, however. I love the imagery that brainstorming on paper creates here. I would love to see what developed from some of these pages. Images via Gardens Blog

For business I also have notebooks where I keep goals, information from courses I took or online reads. A girl friend of mine gave me the Andy Warhol Idea Book and the Idea Log was a gift from a client. When working on my business I find it really helpful to write things down and I reference them often from a planning, business organization and goal setting perspective.

Since I started blogging, my inspirations and cataloging of creative ideas and thoughts has taken on a whole new level. There are many clever ways to keep track of all the amazing images on the internet and one that I have found works really well is a site called Pinterest. Many of you I’m sure are familiar with it. Pinterest is a social catalog service. A virtual pinboard — a place where you can post collections of things you love, and “follow” collections created by others.

I am loving this option to save and keep track of images that inspire me while browsing the internet. You can create boards on anything ~ quotes, stationary, photography, clothing…anything your heart desires :)

A peak into a few of my pins on Pinterest. You can follow me here if you wish.

Another online option where you can create virtual inspiration boards is Olioboard . It’s a great tool to pull together a look that you might be thinking about creating, or even put together a presentation for a client. The outcome is a really quite fun. I have yet to dive into this. I fear it may be addicting, like so many other interactive sites are and I may lose more time to internet activities. However I do see the value in this resource so I’m sure it won’t be long until I cave.

I found this board called ‘Attic Office’ on the Olioboard site that I thought was quite interesting and well put together. It makes we want to try one. Really.

What do you use? Are you tactile, using paper, books and boards to keep track of your musings and ideas? Have you converted to online resources and cataloging systems to keep track of your creativity? Or perhaps you are like me. I’m not ready to give up paper, yet I’m loving the online access of the many services out there that allow us to keep everything in one place, organized, detailed and ready to share.

So tell me! I would love to hear from you.

inspirations: winter whites

We are living in a Winter Wonderland here in Calgary and even though Winter is not officially upon us for a few more weeks ‘Baby, it’s Cold Outside!’

On the other hand, ’tis the Season for parties and gatherings and winter fashion is at the forefront of peoples minds. I was inspired by the BCBG Holiday 2010 catalog and all it’s texture, frill and feminine attitude.

I would love to have you all over for dinner in this glamorous dining room. I think we’d all fit in quite nicely if we were dressed like the ladies above don’t you think? Source: Elle Decor

After you leave I’ll wind down by relaxing in front of the fireplace and read through some shelter magazines. Source: Burning Desires Fireplace Co.

At the end of all the festivities I think I’ll crawl into bed and hibernate until Spring :)                         Source: Luxury Home Interiors

As Christmas is soon upon us I hope you can take some time to enjoy special moments with your loved ones during the hustle and bustle of it all. I wish you much joy as you celebrate the Season from now until the New Year.

xo

Nyla

inspirations: my love of black patent

I have had a love of black patent for as long as I can remember. From a young age I have been influenced by fashion and now even more so with how it relates to interiors. I recently purchased a few new pairs of shoes, all black patent. You see, I just can’t bring myself to purchase a black leather shoe that is not shiny. Glossy black, whether in shoe form or otherwise just adds something, something that sparkles and adds a little more glamour to your day. Admittedly, I own a few of the accessories below and others are on my wish list. There is just something I love about an outfit with a fancy accessory!

Black patent shoes, boots or whatever else you fancy on your feet are classics for me with any ensemble.

What does this have to do with interiors, you ask? Similarly, I love an interior that has a sparkle to it. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not referring to the 80′s high gloss black that seemed to take over an entire room. You don’t need a lot. A little bit of fancy will go a long way. This coffee table with it’s lacquer finish adds a reflective quality that gives drama to the room alongside neutral furniture and hot pink accents. Image: DecorPad.

Left: I love black doors and with this bedroom in particular, the black and white colour scheme is simple yet so dramatic. A black throw on the bed balances the black doors and offers visual weight to the bed. Image: House and Home. Right: A striped detail on the wall is interesting, bold and graphic while the desk and accessories are so very simple. Image via designblahg on twitter.

Think of shiny black accents as the jewelry for your room. You may adorn yourself with jewels to complete an outfit, so why not add that same touch to your room?

Left: The mannequins at the J.Crew bridal store are glossy black, offsetting the pale shades of the garments with a modern elegance. Right: The hanging fixture in this bedroom is the jewel in the room, a stunning focal point that accentuates the ceiling height. Image: Better Homes and Gardens.

A great handbag is a must! You don’t need to limit black patent for only dressy occasions. It can be an everyday staple and one that adds the finishing touch to an outfit.

If you are daring enough, consider your kitchen as a place to invest in black. These cabinets are high drama, however the white washed edges soften the lines and marries well with the carrera marble counter top and back splash for an overall beautiful kitchen. Image via Marie Burgos Design Blog.

Not feeling quite so bold? It can be as simple as adding a side table or light fixture, but a little dose of black in a room offers tension (the good kind!) and an intensity that will really add to your room. Table: Image via Four Walls and a Roof. Pendant: Marcel Wanders Skygarden Pendant for FLOS.

Left: A simple, modern staircase where a black bamboo stick has been used as the railing. The black against the off-white is like a piece of art in and of itself. Source: Living Etc. Right: The artwork may not technically be glossy, however the glass reflection offers that same feeling and demonstrates that a neutral black and white room need not be boring. Source via Luphia Loves.

The black and white striped rug, and more specifically the black, is the anchor in this room. It makes everything harmonious adding just enough depth to allow the room to sing. Source: via damask_dentelle on twitter

So you see, my love for black patent goes beyond my fashion accessories. It can be that glamour, drama or small dose of something special within your space. As you can see, most of these images include a few black items which help to anchor the space and balance the room. Add a little or add a little bit more, but one thing’s for sure….any black in a room is a good thing. When it’s glossy black, I say it’s even better.

Accessory sources ~ Shoes left to right: Maria Sharapova for Cole Haan Air Bacara Ballet Flats, Cole Haan Dalya Air Mary Jane, Whyred Laguela Boot, Michael Michael Kors Bayville Loafer. Jewelry left to right: Stella and Dot Bloom Flower Ring, J.Crew Chain Gang Bracelet, Tahitian Pearls similar to shown from Birks, Stella and Dot Sophia Cluster Ring. Handbags left to right: Kate Spade Summerville Jenkins Black, Tory Burch Logo Embossed Continental Wallet, Burberry Black Patent Shopper, YSL Black Patent Hobo, Cole Haan Wristlet

inspired by an east indian heritage

I have never been to India or Pakistan, and likely never will. I admit I don’t know very much about the culture nor do I practice their religion, however these countries represent a part of my heritage. My ignorance also brings mystery and I find myself intrigued by all that they have to offer. So as I contemplate this (half) part of me I wonder if I am, or could be, influenced by this land and it’s people in relationship to interior design.

India is known for it’s colour. The saturation and hues are bold. It is a land where colour does not apologize for it’s strength and women walk proud wearing saris in the most intense combinations.

A stack of Indian fabrics in beautiful jewel tones and statues in the Chandigarh rock garden of Northern India made of recycled bangles. Source: Flickr, Kristen Savage Facebook Photos.

I love the colour combination and pattern of this tent-like structure used as a canopy where a wedding was taking place. Source: Kristen Savage Facebook Photos.

Women selling scarves and saris on the side of a dirt road. Notice the bright red shutters in the windows ~ an incredible contrast to the washed out grey building. Source: iGuide Travel India.

What I find most interesting is that these bold colours are set against a landscape that is brown, natural and almost desolate in comparison to the accents of colour in clothing, scarves and carpets, even the spices have an intense colour palette.

The same seems to hold true in the interiors that I gravitated towards as examples where an East Indian influence was present.

Source: House Beautiful

A neutral backdrop of white/off-white walls and natural wood set the stage for the colours and patterns that East Indian pillows, rugs, throws and wall hangings offer a space. Source: An Indian Summer Blog

I love the softness of these rooms. The combination of textures adds so much visual interest alongside the bright colours. Source: An Indian Summer Blog, Living Etc.

I am drawn to the bedroom on the left. It offers a modern ethnicity that is so interesting and I love the contrast between the white walls and the bold colour of the bed linens and artwork. Sources: House Beautiful, Elle Decor.

The neutrality of this room is so peaceful, however still so rich in colour and texture. Source: Elle Decor.

I do love a room that has an ere of ethnicity to it. It adds character, warmth and perhaps even tells a little bit about the people who live there, their travels, their culture or where they came from.

I have not infused any East Indian flavour into the decor of my home, however after researching this post I am wondering why not.

So I’m curious, have you been inspired or influenced by your own heritage, or culture enough to bring it into your home? Is it important to you to maintain a connection to it? If so I would love to hear about it. If you blog, perhaps you wouldn’t mind sharing a post about where you’re from and interiors that may reflect that. Would love to get to know you better! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to learn a little more about me!