LiveYourStyle

Long time no see. I have been mostly absent during 2011. It was after all a very busy year for me. There were lots of life changing moments going around and somehow the blog just fell...flat. That's how a whole year goes by, only by saying things like, next week, next week it's for sure**.

Anyway, I am back! With a new blog decor as you may have noticed***. How do you like it? I still have to update the blog list**** and we're good to go.

Catch up with you very soon,
Sharon.

*I am assuming I still have at least one or two left eh
**I know right
***Yes, it took me forever.
****I still read all your fabulous blogs. So sad that some of you walked away from the blogosphere. On the other hand, more fantastic inspirational blogs to be shared soon.
...Alright, I'll stop here before there are more stars than actual text.

Album Mauritius: Jan-Feb 2011

2011-02-07T12:03:00.002+04:00

Gris-Gris, South-South Eastern Coast

Warning: Please don't hate me if you're stuck in winter weather and longing for some sunny warm summer;)

Pont Naturel, South-South Eastern Coast

Le Meridien, Mauritius

...It's definitely summer around here...

Just take a look at the lobby of the Meridien, I can honestly say that it is impressive in grandeur. Oh and the artwork is by Vaco!

All Photos: LiveYourStyle

Hope you enjoyed the peek!

Clawfoot beauty

2011-01-27T10:11:00.003+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

What do you think? Traditional may not be my style, but I say yes to this beauty...

Jewelry posing as chair

2011-01-17T11:56:00.000+04:00

.:From Laboratorio dell'Imperfectto:.

Via Marie Claire Maison

The 'Guscio' chair by designers Verter Turroni and Emanuela Ravelli from Laboratorio dell'Imperfectto. Hard to believe it's fiberglass, isn't it? It looks like a sculpture from some semi-precious stone.

One terrace with a view please

2011-01-14T21:23:00.004+04:00

Photographer : Nicolas Mathéus

Via Coté Maison

We started the week with a daybed inside, well I thought it would be fitting to finish the week with one outside. Isn't that view totally amazing?

I wish I was lounging

2011-01-10T11:09:00.000+04:00

Via Elle Decor India

On this daybed sipping refreshing cocktails with a stack of shelter magazines and a laptop to read through design blogs. Yes?

Saying Good Bye to 2010

2010-12-30T22:18:00.000+04:00

.:Happy New Year:.

And cheers to 2011. May the new year be filled with happiness, success, love and joy, and new ventures, creativity & inspiration. Now shut down the computer, go enjoy the last few hours of 2010! But before you go, I wanted to say Thanks for having visited LiveYourStyle & L'Atelier for your kind words, your thoughts and your encouragement. I'm signing off for the year...I look forward to sharing more design & decor inspiration here, and on your wonderful blogs:)

Be blessed and keep safe,
Sharon.

Photo via Martha Stewart

Room of the Day: the trendy one

2010-12-28T14:09:00.005+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

Something white, something grey, some chandelier, some vintage dresser... some honeysuckle... with some other muted colors. I think this is the epitome of trendy right now. Usually, I'm more a fan of stylish than of trendy. Yet, it's not that bad, all things considered. I could live with trendy!

Look who wanted to say hi

2010-12-24T14:05:00.006+04:00

Oh yeah, summer life's so hard for Frisbie, having to eat all these ripe mangoes every. single. day.

Meet Frisbie, my 7 yr old. She wanted to add her woof woof to my best wishes to you all for a Merry Christmas:) I hope you get to celebrate with your loved ones. Have tons of fun.

Inspiration: Kitchens & Tablescapes

2010-12-20T15:17:00.000+04:00

Via Adore Home Magazine

Via Sköna hem

Via Mixr.se

Via Rue Magazine

Via Lonny Magazine

Just something to get you going on, in case your own home is more "lived-in" than magazine perfect in these times of end-of-year festivities...

Psst: I was trying to find pretty tablescapes to put together for a post, but I was baffled by, well for starters, where to look for them! I tried almost all decor magazines I know, let's see, where else? Yes, Martha of course. Some blogs and even googled 'tablescape'. I must not be searching the right places. Any pointers?

It's starting to look like Christmas...

2010-12-13T11:23:00.004+04:00

I've been busy this weekend, putting up the tree...

Working with a small place is tough. Let alone taking a good picture! There was some madness involved in hiding away stuffs, moving others and trying to find a good angle so most of the tree fits. Oh and the summer heat was not helping. 30 oC inside. Doing anything other than sitting still is a real pain. Heck, I am dreaming of a get-away to somewhere snowed in!

More to follow in the week...

Christmas in White & Gold (Part II)

2010-12-08T11:15:00.001+04:00

Via Apartment Therapy

Via Country Living

Via Canadian House and Home

Via Style at Home

Via Better Homes and Gardens & Country Home

Via It's a Jaime Thing

More eye-candy for a White & Gold Christmas.

p.s: Oh, I'm in a happy mood:) Just after clicking "publish post", I'll be on my way out to a new craft store, with a shopping list for making festive holiday stuffs...

Christmas in White & Gold....

2010-11-30T11:14:00.002+04:00

Via Canadian House & Home

Via Homes & Gardens

Okay, it's high time to get started on Christmas Decor:) Hmm the choice of colors for this year's Christmas? Yes, color is always my starting point when I think of Christmas decor.

Are you anything like me? Or am I slightly OCD-ing it? haha

Let's see, I've thought of a twist on the traditional red and green,with pink and lime...

Country Living

and of a modern silver and blue or a coastal turquoise and white...

Southern Living

but I decided upon a white and gold color scheme, since I am going for a retro-glam, country style Christmas tree.

Via roomenvy

Via Country Living

May be with a touch of silver too. Something along the lines of these:

Country Living

Or with chocolate brown/copper like this:

Homes & Lifestyle

Or a more rustic theme with burlap:

Southern Living

We'll see how it goes, depending on the inspiration of the moment! I'll make sure to take pictures. Also, I haven't been on Etsy for a while! Here's some of the beautiful handmade things that came up when searching for white and gold Christmas ornaments:

From Etsy...
...Click on the store's name to shop for these handmade lovelies...

.:BlueMoon Studios:.

.:VictorianBelles:.

.:VictorianBelles:.

.:joanscrafts:.

.:lesliejanson:.

.:peppermintfizz:.

.:shoponalark:.

.:CJKingOriginals:.

Have you started with Christmas decor yet? What style are you going for?

Finally! some update on what is going on decor-wise

2010-11-15T09:12:00.002+04:00

My "art wall" is up. (Yaayyy. It's about time!) This project has been pending since march this year. I was waiting to collect a few nice pieces of artwork, posters and such. The wait could have gone on indefinitely but the empty wall was grating on my mind. Come november 2010, I decided it was time to DO something.

Let's look at some befores.

Left: Before before Right: Before

We are talking years apart befores. The one on the right was more recent but temporary.

Oh dear, the making of the art wall was tedious. Look at what I had to work with before even thinking of hanging frames. Moisture attacks(tropical climate and leakages in the rooftop drainage system, which involved the hiring of a mason to repair the exterior concrete ) and chipped paint from ripping off contact paper.

Oh and a hole, yes a hole in the wall when sanding the wall surface. Side effects of moisture attacks=brittle cement. I repaired this one myself (especially since I was the one behind the incident, but shush don't tell anyone hehe) with some cement paste and then primed and painted. It had to be done over a few days to allow things to dry well.

Now I had a good blank canvas again, I fished a few things from my stuffs to fill the empty frames.

Except the teenie bird cage-qui vient de Daiso- everything is DIY. How do you like my shout-out for your blogs?:) Ahh sadly, I'm no graphic designer. You might recognise a home tour featured on Marie Claire Maison? I ripped that photo of a design studio off a back issue. Love it. Also, it doesn't hurt that the colors work well with the rest. The floral motif is actually a fabric, although I've been asked twice already if I did the painting! I wish I wish. The crayon drawing is not actually my drawing, it's an illustration from one of my favorite books, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, with a quote from another of my favorite books-the scene where Darcy declares his love to Elizabeth-Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I liked the idea of using illustrations from books and also did this. p.s: Don't worry I didn't massacre any book for the sake of interior design;)

My accent wall color is looking extremely peculiar in this photo, it's NOT pink in real life. Petunia in VIP Satin by Mauvilac is more of a purplish red with pink undertones.

Next, figuring out where to place what...

I traced the outlines of the frames on old newspaper and cut out the shapes to use as guidelines of where to mark the spots for drilling. I went with visible gold toned hooks.

.:Voilà:.

I never showed you the before/after of the battered office table, did I?

.:Before:.

The table was moved to another corner to become a craft station & the shelves repurposed...

Ripping out things can be fun you know. I'm just sayin.

.:After:.

...And here's a peek at what it's used for

And, I'm still not finished with the post...

I posted these on L'Atelier in October.

But I didn't show you something else I sewed with the excess fabric...a bolster pillow!

All photos: LiveYourStyle

That's it for now. I am very happy with the summery feel of the overall look. It will stay put for a while. However, we all know our homes are always works-in-progress. Right?!

image of the day

2010-11-11T13:17:00.003+04:00

Photo by Jason Chan

I promise to end the series of one image posts ...pretty soon:) Meanwhile, this fantastic outdoor setting from Le Touessrok , was too good to pass.

Image of the Day

2010-11-05T11:40:00.002+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

Lately, the temperatures are hitting 27-28 oC during the day (à l'ombre!). Isn't the above, the picture of summer itself? Via Nuevo Estilo. How are you going to enjoy your weekend?

Interior Inspiration: Bathrooms

2010-11-03T10:31:00.000+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

Via Canadian House&Home

Via Better Homes and Gardens

Clean lines, with lots of neutrals. Simply gorgeous (and far from being the mess that mine actually is-yeah I'm totally living vicariously through these fabulous baths-therefore going directly to my inspiration folder, patiently bidding their time, until they are called upon to be used for an actual project ha).

Image of the day

2010-11-01T10:15:00.000+04:00

Via Maison et Demeure

A beautiful veranda to start off the week...

Gourmet Weekend

2010-10-29T19:04:00.002+04:00

Via MICASA

It's Friday! Meaning the weekend is upon us:) What are your plans? I have a gourmet weekend ahead, which involves roasted duck(one of my absolute favorites) and me baking...a banana tart! I've only made it once before, using a recipe very similar to this one. I am hoping it will turn out yummy. By the way, have I mentioned that I like the glass back splash above? What an interesting way of displaying art in the kitchen! (I must be in happy mood, I keep using "!") Anyway, have a great weekend!

Inspiration: Rustic/Industrial

2010-10-28T09:46:00.003+04:00

Images via my ideal home and nice*room

Two rooms where the rustic meets industrial trend works very well: the kitchen and the home office. Two must-haves, the over-sized clock and the steel lampshade! THE detail: the hemisphere iron knob. Bonuses: ladders, reclaimed chairs, steel cabinets, old educational posters, vintage fans, anything remotely apothecary...

Judging a book by its cover...

2010-10-23T12:28:00.005+04:00

You just KNOW, by looking at this...

...that you're looking at a fun, eclectic, creative, daring, out-of-the-box thinking person's home

...and you'll just LOVE her decor (and her sense of style! since this is the home of an interior designer)

To see more of this home, click [here]

All images via Home-Designing

*Unfortunately, I haven't tracked down who's the owner. Drop a word in the comments section if you happen to know, I think we all want to see more of his/her work;)

.:Happy Weekend:.

Around the world villas, Cape Town

2010-10-20T11:39:00.003+04:00

.:Curb Appeal:.

.:Outdoor Lounge:.

.:Suite:.

.:Favorite color combo of the moment:White, Black, Natural Woods and Gold:.

.:Best of Finishes: Waxed Cement:.

.:Small Kitchen:.

.:Glass Stairs?:.

[Source]

These are from some villas for rent in Cape Town, South Africa, straight off the gallery of Around the world Villas, a portfolio you might want to visit for hours on end, since they offer stunning vacation rentals from Thailand to the Bahamas.

Hello Monday

2010-10-18T11:23:00.003+04:00

.:Federal Café in Barcelona:.

Via Dezeen

And hello to you-if you're still following LiveYourStyle, after having me basely abandoning the blog for ...a few weeks now! I meant to post countless number of times and ended up deleting the draft/s, feeling the post was incomplete, the pictures were not LiveYourStyle stuff, the whole thing too silly to post at all. I even contemplated closing down the blog-don't worry I got the crazy idea outta my head. There must be a name to this blogger condition. Writer's block exist...so Blogger's block? Anyways, am not sure if there will be regular updates in the following weeks. More time away from the computer means more time to accomplish things on the to-do list, whether creative projects or simple chores. As well as more possibilities to get inspired...by nature...by meeting new people...by new ventures. Hopefully, I'll come back with interesting things to show you. In the meantime, don't mind if I go "flickr" on you and post only pictures-Oh yeah, I've a handful of stray eye-candies in stock. Starting off with a little something perfect for Monday, a coffee shop. It features an informal indoor/outdoor style à la café-bistro. By architect Barbara Appolloni. I am not a fan of "federal". Why such an ugly name for such a cool place?

Four Seasons Resort Mauritius

2010-10-01T16:23:00.000+04:00

..Four Seasons Resort Mauritius is part of Anahita World Class Sanctuary...

You have already glimpsed Four Seasons Resort on LiveYourStyle here and here. I hope you're not tired of it! I was googling interior designers in Mauritius the other day, and landed on Macbeth Architects + Designers and from there, moved on to WATG -now we're talking really impressive portfolio, great hospitality design. I thought it deserved a whole post...

So sit back, relax and enjoy

Via Four Seasons.com & WATG

...Happy Weekend...

Decorating with neutrals: Black & White

2010-09-23T10:37:00.003+04:00

.:Relaxed Vibe:.

.:Black& White Kitchens:.

A classic color combo that works best with reflective surfaces, inox, glass, steel and mirrors! Love that Kitchen Island(it must be a nightmare to keep it clean!)

.:That's NOT a chandelier or is it?...:.

Via Sköna hem

Via Nuevo Estilo

.:Black & White Bathrooms:.

Via Sköna hem

.:Black & White works for outdoor too:.

Via Nuevo Estilo

...A bit of departure from the profusion of colors I like to see on LiveYourStyle, inspiration for interiors and exteriors in neutrals...

Celebrity Island Home

2010-09-21T13:29:00.003+04:00

A house tour of fashion designer, Carlos Miele's home in Florianópolis, Lagoa da Conceição district off Brazil’s southern coast. A glass house open to nature, facing a lagoon that Miele designed himself. Modernist architecture meets rustic bohemian.

A retreat amongst indigenous rainforest trees and flowering plants signé Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx.

Plus, there's an 82-foot-long swimming pool, with one end in the garden and the other in the middle of the living area, framed by a deck.

Via If the Lamp Shade Fits

I think we should pack our bags and go live there, shall we?

Coral Red

2010-09-20T22:07:00.003+04:00

Via Lonny Magazine

From Cath Kidston's home, which is vibrant with colors and patterns. Flowery of course. I came across these in the August-September 2010 issue of Lonny Magazine . The rug completely won me over. Isn't it gorgeous? I quite liked the coral red entryway too, but in the 'looks good on others way'. Daring choice of color for walls. I kept thinking about coral red lipsticks! Same dilemma in choosing the perfect shade with potential for awesomeness or disaster...

Rue

2010-09-16T21:33:00.005+04:00

♥♥♥ Go check out Rue Magazine if you haven't done so yet ♥♥♥

All images are from rue

Lighting Centerpiece

2010-09-09T10:42:00.001+04:00

It is with light that we can bring soul and spirit back into architecture and perhaps find our soul in the process- Arthur Erickson

.:Schonbek:.

Via
A reason why I like peeking at celebrity homes and portfolios? For the showstopping chandeliers and dramatic lighting. I never say no to great eye-candy, you know me.

.:Villa Dali:.

Via modecodesign.com

.:Evelyn Hutter for Water Pressure:.

Via Trendir.com

Via

.:Bocci:.

Via Trendir.com

Who else has a slight fixation on glass pendants?

Via neathome.net

.:Marchetti Illuminazione:.

Via homedecorg.com

.:Max Azria's home:.

Via Harper's Bazaar

.:Chihuly Chandelier:.

Via Harper's Bazaar

Via

Changing the lighting can alter the way a room looks, particularly the dimensions, just as much changing the color of the walls... Good lighting can make or break your home... It will make your home feel spacious, clean and welcoming... The key is to create a flexible scheme that takes you right through the day and all the different uses of your room... lighting design at BBC Homes.

Locals, you might find these links interesting:

Recycled Shipping Palettes

2010-09-07T17:37:00.006+04:00

Via Serendipity

.:Rustic:.

.:Chic:.

.:Modern:.

Via Re-Nest

.:Cosy:.

Via doobi

.:Artsy:.

Via Re-Nest

.:Designer-ish:.

From La Case No.6 August-September 2010

.:Fresh:.

Palettes turned furniture, it's one of these design trends that has steadily grown on me. I'd love to make a daybed using palettes! I classify palette with driftwood. Or maybe twigs? Same level of coolitude...

White but not WHITE white

2010-09-03T19:01:00.004+04:00

Don't you get tempted to start all over again just when you thought you were done with a room? White happens to suit my mood right now. But not clinical white. White with colorful undertones. White walls as blank canvas so you can let wood remain untainted. And have a go at colors you wouldn't dare go close to, by small touches only.

And yeah, white doesn't distract from gorgeous views such as this.

I miss the seaside! I need to find time to go at the beach. Okay, am off to enjoy my weekend. Have a super lovely one!

Update: What should we think of this?

2010-09-01T15:12:00.005+04:00

August 10th post: What should we think of this?

*****
Via Coté Maison

I'm still deciding if this kitchen sink is the coolest decor idea ever or just plainly a faux-pas. You see, it was originally a... shower pan. Hmm...

*****

Update: Guess what, I switched on the TV today and happened to catch a house tour of this precise kitchen! Yeah I know, what were the chances of this happening. I had round eyes, immediately set the volume to higher, listened very carefully and was itching to report back on it haha.

akagugo, you'll be happy to know, there's more to these cabinets than what it seems.

For, it hides an elevator for the microwave. The family explained how the wiring sound it makes in the morning became a friendly sound that announced coffee's ready and offices as an alarm clock for the kids. Pretty cool!

And I got even more puzzled by the sink. At one point the camera showed what's above it. Well, apart from the lamp we see, there's...a shower head. Probably a reclaimed one, which may or may not be functional. The owner was cheeky and joked that you can take your shower if you want. (as I'm not that quick when it comes to doubtful jokes) Well well well, I'm still undecided.

Click [here] to visit the rest of this very interesting house.

Peek: Silvia Venturini Fendi's Island Home on Ponza

2010-08-31T10:42:00.003+04:00

.:Fendi Spring 2010:.

Silvia Venturini Fendi's island home...

Via Harper's Bazaar

Also known as Casa Madonna. It features multiple spacious terraces, including an alfresco "disco" area and outdoor spaces(N.B: the whole point of this post) that seamlessly extend into cozy, colorful tiled rooms. The home is full of tiny nooks and crannies that inform its personal vibe. From antique furniture and blue door frames shipped from Turkey to broken shards of majolica tiles, which cover walls and floors in splendid mosaic patterns. See her bedroom? Aside from her collection of vintage Fendi bags I mean ;) The interior is to the image of the owner (read her interview), you either like or you don't. Too vintage-y for my personal taste. Some details I really like, the kitchen stairs, the bedroom doors and all the outdoor spaces!

Touches of Blue in eating areas

2010-08-27T20:30:00.000+04:00

Via Marie Claire

I am having a love-hate affair with turquoise and all shades of blue. Blue used to be my favorite color all through high school. And then college happened and I got drawn more towards red, first starting with a purple phase. And then 2010 happened, and turquoise is everywhere. Some blogs already cite it as "passé". Others have an ongoing strong love for this nonetheless beautiful color. I stumbled on the first picture on Marie Claire Australia and it piqued my interest for how blue is used in a dining room. Do you remember my ABCD of Color post...

About.com also says: "Blue is one of the most popular colors, but it is one of the least appetizing. Some weight loss plans even recommend eating your food off of a blue plate. Blue rarely occurs naturally in food aside from blueberries and some plums. Also, humans are geared to avoid foods that are poisonous and blue coloring in food is often a sign of spoilage or poison."

So how far do we dare go with blue in dining rooms?

Via Nuevo Estilo

Via roomenvy

Via theLENNOXX.com

Via flickr

Via thathomesite.com

I like all the above... And the below, why, I like too. But, I'm not sure I'll handle these 24h/7 though.

...That light fixture!

Via Alkemie

Via The Semi-Designed Life

Via houzz

Via Material Girls

Via myhomeideas

Could you do blue walls? Or better yet, could you do a blue ceiling?...

Via theLENNOX.com

Let me hear your thoughts!

A Villa between Africa and Asia

2010-08-23T11:07:00.004+04:00

It's Monday and the week would start much better with a vacation at the Hotel Prince Maurice (yeah, if only). We can still "visit" though. A villa designed by Mauritian architect Jean-Marc Eynaud and decorated by Australian Martin Banner...

Both wanted to take advantage of multiple local heritages and borrowed details from the treasures of Africa and Asia. Between palm roofs and floors of woven precious rosewood, you can lay down on mats made from a Malagasy plant, your head nestled into silky cushions from the Kingdom of Siam.

.:Ceiling panels in raffia, wood blinds from Australia, rosewood flooring from Madagascar & a coffee table in Balinese stone and rattan:.

.:Interior colors inspired by the sun and the earth. On the walls, a collection of engravings representing Indian dignitaries:.

.:Walls of volcanic rock. Dutch colonial style furniture, a bed in carved red mahogany from Batavia (now Jakarta), and elevated according to ancient Buddhist teachings of wisdom, to allow the bad vibes in sleeping bodies to flow away. Glazed terra cotta pottery, Balinese. Drapery Silk, Java and Egyptian cotton sheets:.

.:Buried in the tropical vegetation, an outdoor bathroom, composed of a basalt basin, water gushing from a bronze "Jaquot", a monkey carving by the architect:.

.:Around the pool, tiles inlaid with blue mica reflect light. Slabs are "padimanam" stones of Indonesia that does not absorb heat. A bench made of carved Balinese teak to relax and enjoy the warmth of the lagoon:.

Via Marie Claire Maison

Hotel Prince Maurice, 5-star luxury. Choisy Road, Poste de Flacq, Mauritius.

p.s: I used google translate to copy the original french text and somehow it still can be read. How cool is that? lol

One bed per bedroom is so overrated

2010-08-19T09:47:00.001+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

Bedroom decor inspiration for large families and for dormitories in bungalows. From Nuevo Estilo. Love the simple aesthetic and practicability. No fuss. Very summery.

p.s: How do you like the large format images? I am thinking of using larger pics from now on...

Space saving designs by Resource Furniture

2010-08-18T12:13:00.007+04:00

I came across this on facebook today and was suitably impressed(by friends being interested in furniture design ha... uhh I mean... I was impressed by Resource Furniture!) This is a first, so here goes the video. I am not sure yet if I got the hang of it, so do let me know in the comments if it's not working.

What should we think of this?

2010-08-10T22:12:00.007+04:00

Via Coté Maison

I'm still deciding if this kitchen sink is the coolest decor idea ever or just plainly a faux-pas. You see, it was originally a... shower pan. Hmm...

You can't go wrong with Lanterns + Candles

2010-07-30T22:19:00.003+04:00

Via

Via

Via

Via

Really, you can't go wrong with lanterns. They can be "styled" different ways... I am leaving you with these beauties. Have a great weekend!

* Thank you for your sweet comments. I had that dreaded check-up today and phew, everything is ok. Your positive energy must have reached my little island;) xx Bisous Bisous

La Casa Oasis

2010-07-27T10:28:00.000+04:00

Via Nuevo Estilo

This little casa is aptly named Oasis. Found it via Nuevo Estilo. I didn't understand much of the description, but the only english in the text said: Happy& Natural. Need I say more? I am loving the warmth and charm of the place. I think the trick is the use of wood in all kinds of finishes and in every room, including outdoor. Stained, glossy, au naturel, driftwood, reclaimed wood, patina, whitewashed, they mix very well and make a harmonious decor. There's no overdose of matchy matchiness. That said, it's funny that I like the decor so much, coz it's not modern enough to my taste. However, if I had to have a second home, this'd be it! What about you?

Life Unexpected

2010-07-26T20:37:00.006+04:00

Have you wondered why this blogger has gone MIA again? You'll be ever so sweet to answer yes. I wish it was because of some exciting news such as "Oh I went on a spontaneous vacation to some exotic place & I've got tons of eye candy to show you". Sadly, something much more sinister(appreciate my sense of drama!) happened to poor me. I came down with a bug that left me K.O. I mean no energy whatsoever to come near the computer, but the truth was, I really had to keep my bed. Sitting, eating, anything was a pain. Phew. That was life unexpected. Two whole weeks of misery and still recovering. Let me tell you, Thank God for family in those times. The support I had was unbelievable. They don't read LiveYourStyle, but ifever they come across this post, I want you guys to know I love you! One last thing before we're back to design and decor, am sort of nervous for tomorrow, when I am supposed to have a check up to see if everything's back to normal. Would you be dolls and send positive cosmic energy my way?! Love, Sharon.

Retreats

2010-07-07T10:46:00.015+04:00

.:South Africa:.

.:Mallorca:.

.:Morocco:.

.:Switzerland:.

.:Virgin Islands:.

.:London:.

(Images via Virgin Limited Edition)

I came across this post on Apartment Therapy, that was talking about Virgin Limited Edition. The concept is from none other than Sir Richard Branson who's created ultimate retreats in some of the world's most stunning destinations, with a design and style matching the geography. As if, a private game reserve in SA, a mille et une nuits palace in Morocco, a mountain lodge in the swiss alps and a private isle in the Virgin Islands weren't magical enough, there's also a Mediterranean villa in Mallorca, a clubhouse complete with rooftop garden in London and a luxury yatch...

TGIF

2010-06-25T19:43:00.006+04:00

(Via Le Journal des Femmes & aufeminin)

Are you psyched for the weekend? Here's some stunning Pergolas to set the mood... I can't decide which I like best. Rustic or Modern. Modern or Rustic. Can you?

Anyway, have fun outdoors, eating some scrumptious bbq, taking refreshing dips in pools, hitting the beach etc. I'll be indoors for sure, nursing a cold("winter-ish" Mauritian weather isn't agreeing with me). Which won't be that bad, since I plan on lurking on blogs and such...See ya!

Are stripes passé or classic?

2010-06-21T19:54:00.007+04:00

Being an islander, you know, deciding on having stripes or not in your decor can lead to heated debates. With others or in your head.

You'd say, what's a nautical decor without its blue&white stripe. It's classic, it'll stay. But, lately, we've seen them everywhere-don't tell me you haven't thought of buying a marinière-

and we all know when something has hit the masse that much, it's not far from going. In fact, I wonder whether the stripe is already something passé.

Commiting to an expensive stripey rug, or investing time and energy and money in say, the stripey wallpaper... or patiently fake the said wallpaper using masking tape. No thank you.

Plus, patterns are notorious for dating an interior, don't they? What say you? Have you commited to a stripey decor? More importantly, have you looked back, thinking "what was I thinking?" Just askin...

May be it's a question of dosage. I still think that we're safer whitewashing and adding small touches of stripey here and there, but I confess to be a coward with patterns...

(Sources: Pic no 4. via l'internaute and the rest via Coastal Living)

p.s: I might have overdosed you with pics from Coastal Living both here and on previous posts. Sorry, enjoy anyway:)

In or Out?

2010-06-11T11:20:00.000+04:00

[Source]

Indoor/Outdoor inspiration from an unexpected source, a Swedish shelter mag. Discovered via one of my favourite "new" blogs, Scandinavian Chic, by style savvy Dagny& Rikke-Pop over there to see fab interiors& fashion.

[Via CoteMaison.fr]

Notice the lamps in the two last pictures? Who knew the tutu lampshade would work so well with an indoor-outdoor theme...

[Via CoteMaison.fr]

Yes, today's post is about mostly contemporary interiors which are meant for a summery lifestyle, spaces which naturally open up to some terrace, deck or pool, with large bay areas as well as openings for a maximum use of daylight. As well as outdoor areas which are outfitted like interiors. Spaces meant for entertaining and for enjoying warm weather. Happy Weekend!

Untitled

2010-06-09T12:12:00.010+04:00

I've been meaning to post on LiveYourStyle since last week, except I couldn't put together decent posts that weren't... one sentence long. That would be because I stumbled on a lot of inspiring interiors, except they couldn't be categorized or thematized. So, untitled this one is.

{Via House Beautiful}

I shudder to think at what cost it will be to actually have and maintain a white foyer. But it's so beautiful, like the above designed by Jonathan Adler.

{Via Marie Claire Maison}

This cosy space is home to a French artist, who decorates with knits and embroidery.

{Via Living Etc}

An industrial look for this kitchen island. The lettering is a fun whimsical touch. Although I wouldn't have gone for the word boucherie... How about Bon Appetit...

Sunburst mirror, Chandelier and Nautical Stripes. I love how this is over the top without being overwhelmingly too much. Do I make sense?

[Source]

Usually, I am not a fan of yellow, let alone bright yellows, but these pops of color really work in this... beachhouse. Yeah, beachhouse!

A Pantry in Stone&Bricks! That's from Meg Ryan's beachhouse. As are the dining&bedroom below. I like the architectural details a lot.

[Source]

{Via Marie Calire Maison}

And I wish I was blogging from this terrasse in Paris...

Outdoor living Creole style

2010-05-31T11:51:00.011+04:00

(Source: La Case Magazine, No4)

Can you believe it's Monday already? Let alone that June is practically here. I know. Here's why I thought you might want to look at this pretty picture. Very Islandish. Very Varangue Creole. Never mind the grainy picture, a scan from the April-May 2010 La Case issue. It's the front porch of La Résidence Foulsafat, an oasis of tranquility nestled in Rodrigues Island...

Hello art wall!!!

2010-05-24T21:11:00.003+04:00

Via House and Home

I am back from my impromptu 'away from blogging time'. It was good getting away from the computer. Not that I've been away completely, I had to log in from time to time and visit you guys:) You know, to take that refreshing sip! And wow, there's so much going on! We need to catch up;)

Now you might notice a few things about LiveYourStyle and L'Atelier, some old stuffs are gone. I felt that they were no longer relevant to the blogs. Also, updated the links! It was so sad to delete the sweet comments that accompanied these posts though. In my almost two years of blogging, I've 'met' and connected to lots of amazing bloggers. On a fait un petit bout de chemin ensemble. So thanks for your support. It still warms my heart to read your comments. And nothing pleases me more than seeing a new follower who drops a word about how he/she likes my corner of the world:)

Moving on to today's post, Art Walls...

Via House and Home

They are not necessarily about paintings either. Mirrors, Fabrics, Ceramics, Tassels, Keys, basically any Artwork, Photographs as well as beautiful empty frames are great too. The above art wall consists of a painted corkboard.

So, I have this 2m x 1m blank space on a concrete wall that has been bothering me. Been itching to do something about it. I started collecting bits and pieces, an eclectic bunch really. And of course, started hunting for inspiration and tutorials on how to go about hanging them.

Two options:
1) Aim for symmetry& repetition. But that will involve buying matching frames and it might feel too formal for a bedroom.
2) Go asymmetrical& play with grouping. Much as I love neat, I also love eclectic.

Via Elle Decor

Via Coastal Living

Via House Beautiful

Via House and Home

Via Flickr

Via Elle Decor

Via Living Etc

You might want to read these tips for hanging art if you're about to do an art wall too. I would show you pics for mine, but they aren't any yet. Pics or Art wall. There's a paint job I need to get done before I can think of the art wall. I'll keep you updated!

Coup de Coeur ♥ Small Cool 2010

2010-04-22T11:40:00.003+04:00

(All images via AT)

Click [here] to see who lives in this beautiful 647 sq ft apartment in NYC. I personally love every detail in this decor. I imagine coming home to this a soothing experience. The lavender and brown work well together. And on the other hand, it's just glam enough for entertaining. Who else wants a pair of these silver chairs! Also notice the storage under the bench, and the wall treatment. Interesting use of textures and materials don't you think? In case you haven't seen the awesome entries for Small Cool 2010, go NOW.

Blogger Safari

2010-04-19T09:54:00.013+04:00

Taking inspiration from stunning destinations and gorgeous places in Africa& the Indian Ocean. A picture post of the striking and the exotic. Just Because.

.:Zambia:.

.:Mozambique:.

.:Mauritius:.

.:Kenya:.

.:Seychelles:.

Click on the images for sources.

Color Moodboard

2010-04-13T14:51:00.002+04:00

I really like the dropper tool on Corel. A fancy but quick way of figuring out a color palette(oh am sure there's an application somewhere that already does this). Anyway, I came across this celebrity's room on Instyle, which I somehow associate with spring(which would translate as winter here). Like Like Like! Now, I need to figure out a way of painting furniture to achieve that effect...Any tips?

Leaves NOT Flowers

2010-04-12T11:50:00.000+04:00

Via [here]

Via Coastal Living

As much as I like floral arrangements, there's a trend which has quite grown on me. It's the oversized leafy arrangements in lieu of flowers. Very practical and completely inexpensive, if you have a garden or a few potted plants needing pruning anyway! It's funny that even though shelter mags often feature it like "tropical style", I have yet to see islanders here give it a go.

You can even fake it...

Source: Coastal Living

Three amazing small spaces

2010-04-09T14:56:00.011+04:00

Who said only generously sized rooms needed designer care? This small space was opened up to create a lofty-ish apartment, without sacrificing style. I must add that I absolutely adore the paint used in the dining/kitchen. It's a charcoal grey?

(2)
Less than 30 meter square. Decorated with Thrift stores finds. Intelligent floor planning and voilà!

And (3)

All images via Marie Claire Maison

A boat garage transformed into a secondary home...Seems like the perfect affordable week-end get away plan. Très Chic camping.

Let's talk Easter Decor

2010-04-02T15:15:00.014+04:00

Have you seen 'Alice in Wonderland' by Tim Burton? So you know that scene(even if you didn't, pretend like..)...
Isn't it the perfect setting for Easter celebrations? The mismatched chairs, china, table runners&skirts, all very do-able for a great garden party.

Turns out somebody did think of this...Check out Blush&Bashful's 'Alice in Wonderland Inspiration'

In fact her whole blog is an eye-candy. Head over there if you're looking for entertaining&events decor.

Plus, I've found these real-life Alice themed parties. As you can see, it appeals to little girls as well as big girls!
Via Jessica Claire's Portfolio

Via trendsetting wedding

Btw, did you know there exist ~~instructions~~ ideas for planning your very own "Mad Hatter Tea Party" There's this whole website dedicated to Alice.

...Wish you all a very Happy Easter!!!...

Postcards from 'Home in Paradise'

2010-03-29T09:52:00.010+04:00

First, thanks to Kelly and Victoria at DesignTies for the beautiful blogger award. It's always nice to see other bloggers blog about you, but to receive an award, wow, I am truly honored:)
And I'd like to pass this on to some creative&stylish bloggers, who I follow from my other blog, L'Atelier. There are so many talented people, it's difficult to choose! Alright, these four are a beautiful mix of photographers, crafters& decor lovers, but who I particularly like for their artistic sensibility...De vraies âmes d'artistes...

Grandma's Red Needle
Decor Amor
36 Shea
Travel with mind and body through world

Now as promised, the pictures showing off beautiful spots in Mauritius Island...

.:Maison de Carné:.

This is an atypic colonial house, since it's situated right in urban Rose-Hill(Colonial/Plantation houses of this size are normally found in rural areas). It used to house a cultural centre, and I used to pass in front of it every Saturday for some 4 years of my life. It never ceased to amaze me.

.:Jardin de Beau Vallon:.

.:Rhumerie de Chamarel:.

I had the utmost pleasure in visiting it once. They did a marvellous job of incorporating the sugarcane in the decor. After all, they produce rhum from it.

.:Les Vergers de Labourdonnais:.

One specialty, tropical fruits, which they transform into delish products. I had the privilege of visiting the production unit. I wish I had gone outside in the fields, especially if they look that pretty!

.:Maison Eureka:.

I've always loved the facade of Maison Eureka, Moka. Now am longing to visit the interior...

(Credit: L'Express Gallery)

Tropical Art by Vaco Baissac

2010-03-23T11:16:00.005+04:00

Showcasing a few designer pieces from the tableware collection of Mauritian artist Vaco Baissac. Vaco is a renowned painter, whose particular style depicts our Paradise Island wonderfully. His latest venture(for he's also moonlighted in Jewelry Designer, Sculptor) is tableware and tablecloth with motifs celebrating our fauna and flora. It results from a collaboration with French porcelain designer Deshoulières.

This limited collection is available locally at the Rivière-Noire outlet of Poncini boutique, but also online! Make a visit at his Tropical Art Shop!

Photos Via Le poisson passe & Credits to L'express Dimanche no 17195

About the artist

"Vaco is the "poisson qui passe" (the passing fish), the Mauritian painter who swims against the stream, and has done so for ever. And amongst us, the others, there are these 2 young hotheads who asked themselves: "hey, but where are you going? Where are you going, you, yes, you?"

The "Poisson", after having swum passed, decided to maybe stay: in your plate, under your plate, on your tablecloth, a little bit everywhere, or elsewhere, or where we like it!

The "Poisson Passe" has stayed. He put his beautiful range of colours on a beautiful range of objects, which you can place around your home, so that you can always have a little of Mauritius , the astonishing Island, in your

sight!"[Source]

Work-in-progress

2010-03-21T16:41:00.008+04:00

Before

After

If I could have my way, this room would have undergone total make-over. I am NOT in love with the pair of giant windows which eat up too much floor space(hence the tone on tone curtain to try to hide it), the linyl from the 70's. and the disparate mobilier-not that I want matchy matchy, but trust me it's not exactly the fab-looking eclectic ensemble. New floor, New paint, New lighting, New furniture. So, unless I win the lottery, and change home, this will have to do for the mo'. But I did indulge in new drapery, yay!! I've dreamt so much of sheer white curtains that I've gone and... made them. Even braved tropical rain to go buy the fabric. Yup.

Before

After

About the mobilier justement, I borrowed dad's tools. Sawed, sanded. Installed the curtain rod, which was surprisingly cheap (less than a dollar?!) and easy. Manually drilled the holes, wayyy easier than drilling in concrete lemme tell ya. The ecru cover proved a teeny bit more difficult than planned. I initally wanted striped blue/white ribbon, but had to do with checkered blue/white binding. Had to make ecru binding to make the blue/white one sturdier. And don't ask me why, I triple checked the dimensions, however I still ended up with a cover not running the full width of the shelves. Then, after finishing with the sewing machine and hanging it in place, I discovered the "pretty side" of the strings wouldn't hang straight, so I handstiched invisible plastic press studs somewhere along the middle. There you go shoes, you guys are very comfy now.

Btw, ignore the crappy photos, I only posted them for illustration's sake.

I've also been busy with this DIY.

Next on to-do list: paint job. This storage unit is going either turquoise or white. And while am at it, I might re-do some other pieces of furniture in white too. I'll keep you updated;)

Outdoor Inspiration: Verandas

2010-03-09T10:40:00.000+04:00

Image Sources: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5-7. 8. 9. 10. 11-13

We just had a shower of rain (again) and it got me thinking, lounging with a hot cup of tea under cover in one of these verandas might be just the thing. Well, truth is, hardcore islanders would prefer a good draught of Phoenix. It wouldn't hurt either if the view were to be breathtaking...

Serene Bathrooms

2010-03-02T00:35:00.000+04:00

Via house to home

Via Marie Claire Maison

I was browsing through galleries looking for interior inspiration that just oozed ZEN. I was not let down! Happily stashed these to my bathroom folder. A recurring design trend that I particularly like is the decorative cement finish. Tiles? What tiles? This, plus a wooden flooring to warm up the space. Another winning detail would be the white voile. Dreamy. And the special touch, driftwood decor items...

Let's take a break and visit France's countryside

2010-02-28T10:27:00.000+04:00

[here]

[here]

[Source]

Via [here]

[Source]

Via [here]

[here]

[here]

[Source]

Via [here]

Via [here]

[Source]

Bonjour, Bienvenu! Good Morning, Welcome! Today's post is a compilation of house tours featured on CoteMaison.fr, showcasing authentic French homes. It may be just what the doctor prescribed you, in case you're suffering from the winter blues, or if you're from the southern hemisphere, you plainly need to get away from the suffocating heat.

Small& Stylish

2010-02-26T12:31:00.014+04:00

Via Elle Decor

...The tricks for the ultra-mini bedroom or guestroom include a visually not bulky double bed (storage space!), forgoing bedside tables to save space, therefore using hanging light fixture, a feature wall behind headboard to create focal points and a mirror to give illusion of space...

This is a NY studio, which makes full use of the available space without feeling cramped or losing on the decor level. The airy light is for much. Note the use of reflective surfaces everywhere

Via POINTclickHOME

Via Metropolitan Home

Two schools of thought, above, the richly decorated and below, the pared down look. While it makes sense to keep things to the strict minimum, I kinda prefer the above*...

From the Apartment Therapy Book, via POINTclickHOME

Via Elle Decor

*namely coz of this closet space transformed into a library!

.:Dining:.

Pssssstt!.. you should visit Small Space Style for more inspiration, an amazing blog by Lisa dedicated to... small space design of course

.:Galley Kitchen:..:Cozy Living:.
.:Daybed/Nightbed:.
.:Storage:.

And finally, I'd like to show you some pics from Typhanie's lovely Shoebox Decor...

N.B: Curtains, credenzas or other pieces of furniture can be creative solutions for defining functions in an open space

...Hmm I am pretty sure I have had this one stashed away in my home office folder for long(might even have posted it, haven't checked) How great it must be to shut away the clutter at the end of the day... or when you're stuck & procrastination is just calling you...

Small is of course relative and subjective. And is not always what we might have preferred, but many times, have to make do with anyway. But hey, small can be beautiful ;)

Green Ideas

2010-02-15T18:44:00.009+04:00

...at Casela Nature & Leisure Park, Mauritius. Spent the loveliest afternoon there, and came back with lots of outdoor inspiration.

The Restaurant has this amazing thatch roof and colonnades in pinewood, which work extremely well in keeping the air temperature cool- without AC-while looking exotic and charming. Incidentally, many resorts on the island used to have this, but due to the high flammability of that material, and a few maintenance incidents later, changed to other roofing types.

But I definitely want this in my dream home!

Doesn't these napkins suspiciously look like the Bird of the Paradise flower?

They do! I love that attention to detail. You should know that Casela was initially a bird park. And still is *

Oh, just one of the breathtaking views you enjoy from the veranda. The village you can discern is Tamarin, it's on the West coast and everything is a luscious green because of the enormous amount of rain we had the last few weeks.

Talk about luxurious lifestyle! This peacock is free to roam at leisure (and the cunning thing chose to stick close to the restaurant)

Ah, I particularly liked this corner, with these laser-cut copper lampshades, twig bench and giant Jeu de dames oops sorry don't know the english word

I might consider crafting my own birdhouse. It looks so cute.

They look so cute. There are tons of more species and we took tons of pictures, but I won't bore you with them all;)

*All other photos are by my bro, Jason Chan.

The art of decorating with red

2010-02-14T00:47:00.014+04:00

Red has guts .... deep, strong, dramatic. A geranium red. A Goya red ... to be used like gold for furnishing a house ... for clothes, it is strong, like black or white. - Valentino

Feature walls...

Via Sunset

Image Source

Romantic Red...
Via Sunset

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Via Decorology

The Red Chandelier...
Image Source

Via HGTV

Red Accents...
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Via Susan on Design

...from bold to the barely there
Image Source

The Red Door...
Via HGTV

...and a stunning outdoor feature wall
Via Sunset

...and a cheery& elegant alfresco decor
Image Source

Red is a bright, warm color that evokes strong emotions. Red is associated with love, warmth, and comfort. Red is also considered an intense, or even angry, color that creates feelings of excitement or intensity. For the Chinese, Red is also the color of happiness, luck and prosperity. For more on color, see my post on the ABCD of color.

It is ever so appropriate on this double occasion for celebration, Valentine's day falls on the Chinese New Year! I had so much fun putting this post together, and I hope that if you're already an avid fan of red, you've been inspired, that if you usually shy away from this bold color, you're tempted to give it a go in your future decor projects.

Kung Shee fat Choy, Bonheur et Prosperite, Happiness and Success,
Sharon.

To Mykonos Via Shelter Island

2010-02-11T11:53:00.006+04:00

I happened to visit AT and liked the house tour featuring a Greek Vacation Hom e...With the color palette emulating the ocean, what's not to like. Then I clicked on a link to another house tour: Steve&Rhea's Renovated Fisherman's Cottage previously featured on AT and me like me like me like!They did a fantastic job. Inspiration Galore. So there you go, sit back and relax, we're going on both house tours...

Shelter Island, NY

Anthracite is a cool option instead of the usual turquoise

An eclectic feel to the decor which is nevertheless harmonious

Two favorite trends, the chalkboard and the stripe

What a lovely nook, so cosy

And Mykonos, Greece

Outdoor-Indoor Living at its best

Love the ceiling, the chandelier below and the coffee tables

Another lovely nook perfect for lounging

Hmm, I can't decide which I heart best...

(Source: Apartment Therapy)

Best Blog Award

2010-02-08T10:01:00.002+04:00

Thanks to Cece of Rock and Revolution for this Best Blog Award!

Rules:

1. To accept the award, you must post it on your blog with the name of the person who has granted you the award, and a link to their blog.
2. Pass the award on to approximately 15 other blogs that you recently discovered, and think are great!
3. Contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award

Here goes...

Ada and Darcy
Alkemie
Beautiful Living
belle maison
Completely Coastal
Décor de Provence
DesignTies
delight by design
decorology
GardenDesigns+more
Hooked on Houses
House of Turquoise
::Lime in the coconut::
please sir
The Inspired Room