If you’re looking for inspiration to clean out some clutter this season, look no further than the home and studio of British fashion designer Anna Valentine. Bright white and decidedly minimal, the space had me with its flood of natural light and herringbone floors, but the subtle attention to detail is what makes this home exceptional.

inspiring studio tour on apartment 34inspired studio tour on apartment 34inspiring studio tour on apartment 34inspiring studio tour on apartment 34inspired studio tour on apartment 34inspiring studio tour on apartment 34inspiring studio tour on apartment 34inspiring studio tour on apartment 34

The space has an airy, calming atmosphere thanks to the monochromatic color palette and use of organic materials throughout; an oversized wooden kitchen table, marble counters and tumbled stone floors, worn leather furniture and a ceramics collection all add texture and interest.The space also houses Valentine’s design studio – where her clothes feels like an intentional part of the decor. I also love the juxtaposition of antiques (acquired during Anna’s travels through France) that live harmoniously with design classics like the Eames Molded Plywood Chair. This is proof positive that designing a home is indeed a treasure hunt.

As I sit and stare at a still hardly furnished home, I take solace in the proof that a curated space that showcases slowly acquired treasures can feel warm and inviting rather than sparse. Patience will pay off (I hope!).

 

For our entire home tour archive, CLICK HERE

styling: Luanne Toms / photography Elsa Young for Elle Decoration

This gorgeous Italian apartment has officially stolen my attention (and design-obsessed heart). The clean, organic palette is a refreshing spin on minimalism. The combination of white, wood, and hints of brass – all flooded with natural light – makes this space glow.

light and bright on apartment 34 light and bright on apartment 34light and bright on apartment 34IMG_0143-371-Modifica-5light and bright on apartment 34light and bright on apartment 34italian-urban-apartment-archiplanstudio-6  light and bright on apartment 34light and bright on apartment 34IMG_0129-357-Modifica-3IMG_0135-363-Modifica-SITO ARCHIPLANlight and bright on apartment 34

Great design can happen when elements of contrasting styles come together, such as the delicate balance between new and old. In this apartment all of the raw wood surfaces bring add a beautiful natural element to the space without sacrificing its overall modern feel. Call me crazy but I can almost smell the pine trees through my computer screen! Subtle hints of vintage inspired design peppered throughout the apartment also add a unique sense of playfulness and charm. The crisp lines are softened with vintage pieces like the mismatched dining chairs and old-world details like that claw-footed tub.Pops of greenery, ranging for cacti to snake plants, add life.

If you’re looking to bring hints of vintage into your home, check out Chairish and 1stdibs, two of my favorite online markets for unique finds. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, spend a weekend morning digging through antiques at your local fair. If you live in the Bay Area, the Alameda Flea Market never fails to unearth amazing vintage gems.

But this Italian apartment is a perfect reminder of my current design mantras: do more with less, use white to showcase everything else in a space and let in as much light as humanly possible. While our house doesn’t resemble this apartment in any shape or form, I’m going to apply some of these ideas to my spring cleaning to-do list.

light and bright on apartment 34

SHOP THE LOOK

Chair

Dining Table

Dresser

White dishware

Pendant Light

Rattan Basket

 

For more home tours, check out our archive RIGHT HERE.

 

photography by davide galli for archiplan studio

I’m currently working the design for my living room, but it’s proved a tougher challenge than I originally thought. The room has odd dimensions and we need for it to be a multi-use space with more than one sitting area. It also has a long desk area and is the primary play space for our son. You can see some of our Designer’s Take series that offered ideas for the space herehere and here. As I hunt around for solutions, one has bubbled to the top of my list: the Safari Daybed.

daybed trendsafari daybed trendsafari daybed trend safari daybed trendsafari daybed trendsafari daybed trendsafari daybed trend

Now, we’ve talked about daybeds around here before, but the safari daybed isn’t the traditional, could actually be a bed, variety. This version can really function more as a bench or a cot if you ever wanted to actually sleep on it. While there are some variations of this bed, the original OGK Safari Daybed actually was designed in 1962 by Danish designer Ole Gjerlov-Knudsen. The story goes that he designed it for his son who was heading off on a camping trip and didn’t want him to sleep on the ground. But what I love is the beautiful timeless design. It’s low profile, it’s understated. The use of natural materials including canvas, beech wood and sisal rope is beautiful. While many other daybed options take on a boho vibe, this daybed is minimal, modern and seriously chic. I think I might be sold!

What do you think? Would you put a safari daybed in your house?

For more of my favorite design trends, CLICK HERE.

images 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5/ 7

As progress on our house continues, ever slowly but ever surely, I’m turning my sights to our living room. It’s been the most neglected to date- really serving as our dumping ground while the rooms around it have taken shape. (Check out my dining room, media room and even a kitchen sneak peek in case you missed them). But I’m ok with really taking my time in the living room because eventually, it’s going to be the heart of our home. That’s why I custom designed a sofa (that’s coming any day now!), insisted on built-in shelving (which you can see here) and am being incredibly choosy about every piece of furniture I add to the space. I want to make sure I get this room right and fill it only with treasures that I truly love.

One of the biggest decisions I’ve yet to make is a rug choice. Rugs can set the tone for an entire room. While the beni ourain trend still has a vice grip on our style subconscious, I’m craving something equally timeless, but decidedly different. Here are just a few of the rug ideas I’m currently considering.

apt34-rug-ideas-2

Still Moroccan, still vintage but in a noticeably different style and color. I’m loving the mix of a grid and squares in the example above. It would be a really interesting conversation piece.

apt34-rug-ideas-3

I’ve talked about layering rugs before but hadn’t thought about it for my living room until now. It would make it easier since I wouldn’t have to hunt down something in the over 12′ range. It would allow more flexibility for switching up styles down the road. It would let me play with tone and texture…color me intrigued.

apt34-rug-ideas-6

A flatweave with black stripes would create a striking visual and would be a fun way to mix and match print and pattern in the room.

apt34-rug-ideas-9

I am leaving heavily toward a vintage option and I’m liking the darker tones of the rug in this picture. It would ground the room and give it depth.

apt34-rug-ideas-5

While I tend to shy away from color, I’m into this multi-toned striped rug idea. It still feels neutral even though it includes some blush and earthy brown tones. Something like that would play well off of our light oak floors.

apt34-rug-ideas-1

When mixed with an eclectic grouping of furniture a classic blue and white stripe goes from feeling nautical to feeling modern. Hmmmm.

apt34-rug-ideas-7

But then I come back to a beni ourain. A good vintage one with asymmetrical, unique patterns really does feel classic. But is classic a cop out?

What would you do??

To check out my living room design inspiration, CLICK HERE

For all the updates on our renovation and the reveals to date, CLICK HERE

image sources 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

Now that all the holiday trimmings are packed away, it’s like a breath of fresh air. This is the perfect time to around at your home and get a little picky. Every January I love to walk around my spaces and ask myself: what am I loving? What am I just sick of? What could I do to give this room a facelift? Thankfully, you don’t have to completely ditch everything you already have or bring in all new furniture to make a room feel fresh. Simply focusing on a few small details can make a really big difference.

apt34_shelfie

Case in point: a bookshelf. A bookshelf is the perfect place to express your current design personality in a snap. Think of it like your hairstyle – you can continually switch it up depending on your mood. After the holiday hustle, I really wanted to create a calming zen-like feel with the built-ins in my living room. To ease visual clutter, I decided to stick with a singular color palette; black, white and warm wood tones. But now that we’re getting settled into our house, I also wanted to get some family photos out and about. I am a mom after all. But of course, I also refused to compromise my design. To keep my look consistent I turned to Mpix for help.

Mpix is an online photography printing service that lets you create your own cards, gifts, photobooks and framed wall art. I simply went onto the Mpix website and uploaded a collection of professional photos of my kiddo that we’ve had taken since he was born. There, I was able to turn all the images black and white to make them consistent with my bookcase color scheme. I choose different sizes for the images ranging from 4″x 4″ to as big as 16″x 20″, but for consistency I framed them all in a timeless silver metal. As I discussed in the reveal of my dining room, I’m obsessed with the informal look of leaning art, and layering an abstract piece  with a large scale photo softens the look even more. It also helps keep a toddler out of my unfinished fireplace. Bonus.

ErinApt34-0017-600x

I was so impressed with how the frame pictures turned out. First of all, they arrived in what was nearly fortress-like packaging. I think this is the first time I’ve received mail-order framed prints with zero scratching, cracking or any gaps in the frame. The quality is truly exceptional. The photos also printed extremely crisp, printed on high quality black & white photo paper. I also selected a non-glare glass which really elevates the look.

apt34_shelfie2

With the fabulous framed photos in hand, I could then get down to it. When it came to styling these shelves, I wanted to take as minimalist of an approach as I can muster. I do like my collections – ask my husband. But everything in life feels so crowded these days, I really like my house to feel open. I’ve been working very hard to purge and pare down and I think this endeavor was successful. I limited the amount of things on each shelf, allowing for a lot of spacing between groupings. I finally had a spot to put my Kinfolk Magazine collection on display, which also helped me stick with my monochromatic look. A few special pieces, my trio of Gerhard Ceramics bud vases, a few vintage treasures and gifts from friends (or gifts to myself!) add texture. A brass jack paperweight adds a warm metallic touch – always nice.

apt34_shelfie1

While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for perfecting your bookshelf look, compiling a collection of curated items requires a little patience and perhaps a little practice. But no matter where you are in your shelfie game, remember these three rules and you’ll have a perfectly styled bookshelf every time.

#1: Horizontal x Vertical Books. Shelves should start with books, but mix up the way you display them. Try piling them horizontally or flipping the spines to face inward as well as keeping some standing vertical.

#2: Remember the 1:1 Ratio. For every stack of books, add an object. It could be anything: a candle, brass box, pretty collection of rocks, that awesome “thing” you couldn’t not buy at last month’s flea market. This is the best way to break up the ‘boxy library look’

#3: Vary Your Heights. You want to keep the eye traveling all the up your shelving, so vary the heights of your groupings, be it of your book-stacks or your objects.

apt34-shelfie-get-the-look

SHOP THE POST Mpix wall art / bookend / marbleized vases / vintage wood bowls / brass jack paperweight / candle sticks / bud vases / wood beads / white books

 

original photography for apartment 34 by michelle drewes

This is post is in partnership with Mpix. all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. thanks for supporting collaborations we’re excited about and that have kept apartment34’s doors open. 

With modern and bohemian trends being so prominent in the design industry these days, it has been refreshing seeing some of our favorite lines bringing back the traditional aesthetic.

apt34-new-traditionalapt34-new-traditionalapt34-new-traditional

Kate Spade New York’s new fall home collection has done this impeccably. The collection mixes glamorous materials with traditional patterns keeping things looking classic without being too stuffy. There is also still an air of whimsy which is the Kate Spade trademark. We especially love the new collection’s classic black, white and gold pieces that promise to keep your home timeless regardless of the rest of the design trends du jour that are continually circulating.

We love the look in spaces that feature classic design details like crown molding, parquet floors or wainscoting. But a traditional piece can also add that traditional style if your home is lacking those timeless bones.

We’ve gathered our favorite pieces to help you achieve the new traditional look in your home. A classic stripe, a stately couch and a few fun accessories like a glamorous table lamp or marble-topped coffee table will add the extra touch of personality that a room needs to feel special.

apt34-new traditionalapt34-new-traditional

apt34-new-traditional

 Dickinson Large Pendant / Downing Sofa / Double Stripe Pillow  / Keaton Bouquet Table Lamp / Duncan Side Table / Syrie Coffee Table / Norwhich Chair /  Color Block Throw / Daisy Plate

 

SHOP THE POST

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”2034083″]

image 1 / image 2 / image 3

This post is in partnership with Kate Spade New York. All thoughts and opinions are 100% our own. Thanks for supporting posts that have kept Apartment 34’s doors open.

As you may have noticed, I’m a bit obsessed with neutral interiors. Our house is a whole lotta white (as you can see here) – in a good way if I do say so myself. But I do want to inject a bit of color here and there. A colorful rug is the perfect way to add a touch of personality to a neutral room.

Especially if they look as good as these hand selected Moroccan rugs from Australian company Tigmi Trading. I would like one of each please!

4uls0eRATwyIjHNJqdkN_160426TMrugs-99467RZfOZMRSYSI1f5umwvd_160426TMrugs-9923PmYJkiYS9mao8yeFXcet_TigmiMay16_013KfnUmOdDQBimXxU2GBy7_160426TMrugs-9899Jgl68I57SeKPvdTH2aBJ_160426TMrugs-9858ElIMwxdwRGyQiTFCr9Ip_TigmiMay16_039

While the neutral beni ourain rugs have been the design de jour, I’m loving the look of these pink, peach, and magenta tones. They feel fresh, modern and interesting. A rug with a mix of peach tones can looks soft and warm, while a rug with a black ground can look really dramatic (obsessed!).

You could make a major statement with a really large rug in a bedroom, but these rugs would also look good in smaller versions for use in a bathroom, in the kitchen or in a walk-in closet. You could even create a the ultimate outdoor setting (though you wouldn’t want to leave it out there obviously). While you need to be a little brave to take on such a bold color choice, the best thing about a rug? It’s easy to swap out for something new!

For our design inspiration archive CLICK HERE.

Given that I’m currently on an exhaustive couch hunt searching for the perfect pieces for the Victorian, I have sofas on the brain. While I’ve yet to commit to a style (though sectionals are on the list), I’m also loving the vibe of a low-slung sofa look. I’m definitely thinking of stealing this idea.

apt34-low-slung-sofa-5apt34-low-slung-sofa-4apt34-low-slung-sofa-5apt34-low-slung-sofa-3apt34-low-slung-sofa-1

The look feels modern, cool and design-forward, but also relaxed, easy and comfortable. It’s kind of the perfect storm. It’s definitely the feeling I’d love to evoke in our house. You can so easily curl up and read a book in one of these babies, take a nap, watch a movie. The more structured options still feel tailored and formal. They can also feel really casual. A vintage leather version would just be badass. There are current options like the classic 1970’s Togo Sofa from Ligne Roset, similar idea from BB Italia or this much more affordable style at Article. If you wanted to really go big, head to 1stdibs.

I’m not 100% committed to this sofa idea yet, but I think the low-slung style would be a great juxtaposition with our house’s historic details like the ornate crown molding and wide-plank hardwood floors. They’re also incredibly kid friendly. Bonus.

What say you? Anyone out there have this style of sofa? I’d be really intrigued to hear you experience with them. For now, the hunt continues!

Need more theft-worthy design ideas? Check out the Idea to Steal archive RIGHT HERE.

image 1 /  image 2 / image 3 image 4 / image 5

Everyone I run into lately has brought up their desire to slow things down this year. The always on, always connected, always sharing what’s new, what’s next, where I am right this second seems to be weighing on people. I think we’re hitting a tipping point to change our collective approach to the rat race and I’m all for it. Anything that makes the day’s pace slow is alright by me.

Luckily, there are pretty easy ways to bring some semblance of sanity into daily life. I’ve decided to try four things to add an air of calm to my world this year.

CLEAR THE CLUTTER

apt34nespresso

The art of tidying was all the rage in 2015 and it’s certainly not going anywhere. The concepts are pretty straight forward. Set a bar for what you surround yourself with.Keep things that bring you joy, that are useful or are just extra special. Things that don’t make the cut? Anything that’s sat in a drawer for a year, stuff that needs to be fixed, something you’re saving “just in case,” or anything you’re just sick of looking at.

apt34nespresso4

I’m definitely taking a “out with the old” approach to decorating in 2016. Notice there was no “in with the new” at the end of that cliché. I’ve been having a ball getting rid of stuff and firmly believe if you purge the physical things clogging up your life, it will spill over to your mental and emotional life as well. You quite literally have space to breathe. Design books that I haven’t revisited in the last year? Buh-bye. The magazines I keep thinking I’ll reread? Oh no.

My coffee table is now a blissfully open expanse, punctuated by a tray to set my daily cup of bliss coffee – but nothing more. Thankfully, our pending move is going to help facilitate an even deeper mass exodus, but you don’t have to move to do your own version of decluttering. Here’s how I try to tackle it: take one hour per week to address a specific area in your house that feels stuck, but won’t overwhelm you. That might be the junk drawers, under the bathroom sink, the box of unsorted paperwork. Then you can block out an afternoon for major projects like the closet clean out. I promise, you’ll slowly but surely chip away at the overflow.

REFRESH YOUR ARRANGEMENTS

Apt34-LoftRedesign-24Apt34-LoftRedesign-27

With all those things that do bring you joy – display them! Put them within arm’s reach. Set them out in high trafficked areas that you’ll see daily. I’m a big fan of using picture rails to not only display art or personal photos, but also books, magazines and even a candle or air plant for some texture. They add a ton of interest without taking up a lot of real estate. They’re perfect for small spaces or a hallway. Any time you need a mood booster – rearrange. It’s my form of meditation and I swear by it.

TAKE A TIMEOUT

apt34nespresso2

All too often I grab a coffee on the go, chugging it while I’m racing to from point A, 15 minutes late to the point B. This year I’m committing myself to sitting down and fully enjoying a cup of fresh coffee and a little time to myself everyday. Thankfully, I’ve fallen in love with my VertuoLine Evoluo from Nespresso. I’ve been partnering with Nespresso as part of their “Experience A Cup Above” campaign. (You may have spied this post or this post).

Having a Nespresso at home makes taking a few minutes to myself really easy. A push of a button and I have a beautiful cup of coffee and a good ten minutes of sanity-returning quiet time. And the fact that Nespresso’s coffee capsules are made of 100% aluminum and recyclable means no additional clutter. I’m currently obsessed with the Limited Edition Swiss Chocolate variation that was available during the holiday season. That little whiff of chocolate makes mama very happy. You can also try the Intenso variation  that is a permanent addition.

SET AN INTENTION (OR 2!)

apt34nespresso7

There are just too many things coming at us all the time to remember them all. And we can all agree there aren’t enough hours in the day to get through your entire to-do list, so this year I’m committing myself to serious prioritization. And to hold myself accountable, I’m writing it all down. There’s something about putting pen to paper that adds a whole new level of gravitas to a goal. This is something you can do while enjoying said cup of Nespresso and revel in your tidy minimalized space.

There you have it. Just a few simple changes to your daily routine and updates to your environment will help you get 2016 off to a positive start. I’m going to do my best to keep the momentum going long after January has passed.

Who else is with me?!

 

original photography by me & aubrie pick (images 3, 4)

This post was created in connection with my appointment as a Nespresso “A Cup Above” participant. Thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Thanks for supporting collaborations that have kept Apartment 34’s doors open.

Older posts
Gimme More