I know, I know. This vacation rental has been blogged, pinned and blogged again, but I just can’t help myself. This stunning bungalow, tucked on the island of St. Barts, is truly a vacation destination dream come true. And since I’m still hunting for my ultimate vacation rental on Kauai (the amount of AirBnB tabs I currently have open is terrifying), I’m hoping that putting my vision of perfection out into the universe will somehow bring forth that hidden Hawaiian gem. And even if you’ve seen this house 20 times already (I unknowingly featured the deck in this post!), you’re going to love it on the 21st, I promise because ALL WHITE errything.

dream vacation rental on apartment 34

This house, called Villa Palmier, is pure perfection. Bright white, beachy but elevated. Minimalist but a bit rustic. Every detail, from the pale wood cabinetry, custom sofas, dots of vintage accessories and collected decor make this space welcoming but also open, airy – it’s like an exhale personified.

As the designer (and highly talented photographer) Katie Holstein explains “Both my husband and I believe in curated spaces where every part of the house has a story, a purpose, and aesthetic appeal. This ideology was a driving force for both our home in Aspen and St Barts.”

dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34

While the details throughout this vacation home look simple, they are in fact highly considered, but also range from hight to low. I spy baskets from The Citizenry and the CB2 Shroom coffee table. They’re juxtaposed with stunning Ay Illuminate light fixtures and a Lacanche range. All island vacation homes should officially have jute poufs – just sayin’.

dream vacation rental on apartment 34  dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34dream vacation rental on apartment 34

I’ve officially become so obsessed with vacation home design. Maybe that’s what my next business should be – how to transform idyllic island homes into magazine-worthy perfection. This house was featured in Elle Decoration France! And it’s easy to see why. It’s the ultimate fantasy. Indoor / out door living. Light colored everything – as if toddlers or stains don’t exist. The clutter of daily life is no where to be found. And that is what vacation is all about. While I’m still committed to going to Kauai at the moment, this home is very tempting.

If you’re planning a trip to St. Barts, this travel guide is extremely detailed!

For more travel destination inspiration, CLICK HERE.

images by Kate Holstein and Romain Ricard fro Elle Decoration, quote via here

When you’re wanting to get away from it all, there’s really no better place then an island. When you’re on an island you feel luxuriously cut off from civilization, as if the little corner of the world on which you sit is the only thing that exists in that moment. And isn’t that what anyone wants from a vacation destination?! So it’s no surprise that I immediately fell in love with Casa Cook, a gorgeous boutique hotel nested into the beautifully rustic terrain of the Greek island of Rhodes.

wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes  wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes  wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes  wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes

It also helps that this meticulously designed hotel was designed and styled by Michael Schickinger and Annabell Kutucu, who also designed the San Giorgio hotel on Mykonos – where I had the pleasure of staying a few years ago! If you missed that trip you’ve got to check out here. The San Giorgio might be the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in. Design-focused spots like these burn themselves onto your brain (and truthfully taint you for future trips because little lives up).

wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes

Casa Cook is a 90 room escape aimed to attract us design lovers with meticulously appointed rooms, delicious food and soul enriching activities like yoga retreats and immersive experiences on the island. At Casa Cook you can swim up to virtually every room in their expansive pool. Hammocks dot nearly every corner, tempting to take an impromptu siesta.

wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes

While the use of natural materials, stone and warm wood tones give off a vacation vibe, the use of black in many places adds a bit of an urban edge. The final result certainly appeals to a city-loving girl such as myself. You feel like you could be in restaurant in the heart of New York, except for the amazing open-air breezes passing through.

wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes wanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodeswanderlust on apartment 34: casa cook on the island of Rhodes

While making a sojourn to Greece is no easy feat – especially from the west coast, traveling to far flung locations is so good for your soul. And when they’re this easy on the eyes, I think the trek would definitely be worth it. Casa Cook is officially going on the bucket list.

I’m curious, what’s on yours??

For our archive of travel inspiration, CLICK HERE.

 

photography by Georg Roske for casa cook 

It’s back. The season to pack your bags and hit the road or… watch wistfully while everyone else seems to be going somewhere fabulous. I had an entirely different post ready to officially kick off wanderlust season today, but this is where the blog still collides with my day to day life. After packing our Memorial Day weekend with a whole lot of domesticity, but watching the never-ending stream of everyone else’s amazing travels, I can’t take it anymore. We must go. We must go now. We haven’t taken a vacation in nearly 8 months, so I think it’s about time. And it’s time to go to Kauai. I’ve spent the last 48 hours completely obsessed.

wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34

While we had an amazing time during our first real family vacation on Maui last year, I just feel compelled to make a sojourn to Kauai. I’ve stayed before…in 1992 – ha! But there’s something about the lush jungle, the even slower pace, the unbeaten paths and stunning beaches that is calling me back. Kauai seems like the perfect place to truly escape – and is anyone else feeling like they wish they were in a different world right now? Yeah, me too.

So I’ve started my standard travel planning – obsessive amounts of research and relentless “perfect place to stay” searching. I consider myself the queen of finding that one hidden gem. But I didn’t have to search too hard to find a what might be the best spot I’ve seen on Kauai thus far. Meet The Palmwood.

wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34

This stunning retreat is a small, secluded bed and breakfast tucked into Kauai’s Moloa’a valley. There is no kitsch to be found. Only thoughtful vintage furnishings, crazy pretty views and gourmet food thanks so the owner’s son – who happens to be a professionally trained chef. The vibes are cool, a touch bohemian and decidely laid back. Exactly what I’m craving right now.

wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34wanderlusting for kauai on apartment 34

While this chic spot isn’t family friendly per say, I’m already dreaming of a mini-escape for the husband and I, regardless of what our final Kauai destination turns out to be. I mean, did you catch a glimpse of that pool?? It’s calling my name.

And while I’m going to continue to devour every online Kauai travel guide I can find, I would love your help friends. Are you a Kauai aficionado? Have you visited recently? Do you have a few favorite places you’d be willing to share? I would be SO grateful. It was 55 degrees and foggy as all get out in San Francisco today. This mama needs some Aloha stat.

 

To check out last year’s wanderlust-worthy destinations, CLICK HERE

photography via bryce johnson, cult collective , cult collective, in bed with, in bed with, the drifter, cult collectiveelanalooerin kunkel for sunset magazine, in bed withelanaloo

I know, I’m one of those people. One of those weird people who will actually determine my dream travel destination not by the locale itself, but by where I can stay! I’m sorry but aesthetics are important to me people. After about nine years here at Apt34, I think we’ve established that. Which is why Philadelphia has suddenly sprung to the top of my must-visit list. Yes, I’ve actually heard great things about the city for awhile now, and it is the birthplace of our entire nation, but really, it’s all about this stunning Airbnb!

I mean, just look at this space.

apt34-phillyairbnb3 apt34-phillyairbnb2 apt34-phillyairbnbapt34-phillyairbnbphily airbnbphilly airbnbapt34 airbnb philly

Set in a Rittenhouse xxx, this apartment is absolutely stunning. And it’s easy to understand why  – it’s owned and designed by the styling and interiors powerhouse couple Tara Mangini and Percy Bright behind Jersey Ice Cream Co. You may have spotted their work here or seen this interview with Tara and Percy here.

The duo have a decidedly old world style. Every space they put together has a thoughtful patina mixed with timeless design elements. They tend to do a lot of cottages and country kitchens, but there’s an aire of restraint and sophistication that I really appreciate – even with all the vintage bobbles lying around. But this all white dream room is screaming my name. The minimalism, yet cozy warmth is phenomenal, thanks to the refinished original hardwood floors, the restoration of beautiful molding and addition of paneling, the lux creamy textiles. And don’t even get me started about that pitch perfect kitchenette. Gold hardware and copper pots pop against the neutral walls and raw pine cabinetry.

This little apartment is so perfect as a vacation spot because no one could actually live a normal life in an all-white space like this. But oh to lay my head there for just a day or two and dream of the days before kids, dirt and clutter began to invade my world. I don’t even really care what there is to do in Philadelphia because I’m pretty sure I would just sit on this apartment’s private roof deck from dawn till dusk – save all the naps I would take in that bed and the bath I would enjoy in the claw-foot tub.

Ok, I’m booking my ticket as I type….

images courtesy of jersey ice cream co

Now that we’re in the heart of the summer season, travel is all I can really think dream about. While I’m not actually heading to any exotic locales anytime soon, I just keep adding to my wishlist. Today I have Mexico on my mind. Particularly Mexico City. Have you noticed how it’s been popping up everywhere lately? The New York Times, Instagram, blogger trips. Apparently, Mexico City is having a major moment.

Color me intrigued!

After doing just a quickie internet search, I can see why. The hotels, the art scene, the food…Everything in Mexico City is going off right now. Here are just a few examples.

apt34-mexico city

There are stunning places to stay in cool Mexico City neighborhoods like Hotel Condesa df  (above) or La Valise Hotel that features just three beautifully appointed suites, both in the Colonia Roma district.

la-valise-1 bedroom-interior-down-town-hotel-in-mexico-with-stone-wall-design-and-black-wood-window-945x1417

Another stunning example are the rooms of the chic Down Town Hotel housed in a building dating back to 1700’s in the heart of city.

luis-casa-moya1

You can enjoy design aficionado heaven at the Luis Barragan house. Or dine under this stunning vertical garden at Restaurant Pardrinos.

grass-wall-restaurant-mexico-city

Or marvel at the walls of the museum-like Hueso Restaurant that feature over 10,000 bones and historic artifacts.

0-hueso-restaurant-mexico-guadalajara-city-yatzer

Or get tile envy the chicest churreria you ever did see.

f3_churreria_el_moro_cuauhtemoc_mexico_city_cadena_asociados_concept_design_yatzer

And then there are the killer colors and beautiful scenes that seem to be around every corner.

Lucy+Laucht+Mexico+City+2015-12 2.+IMG_0364857aec266fd33bf1c61df49c2fdc51be

Mexico City has the old world charm wrapped within the hum a modern metropolis that is pulsating with art, culture and innovation. While I’m not hopping a plane anytime soon (wah!), I am taking inspiration from the Mexico City vibe to add a fun summer accessory to my world. Any of the goodies below would immediately add a little bit of that colorful Mexican spirit and make me crave a really good margarita (you can actually see my favorite recipe for that right here).

apt34-mexico-city

GET YOUR SHOP ON

otomi key chain / sandal / destiladeras tote / oaxaca scarf / mexican-made pendant light / mexican made acapulco chair / throw pillow / apasco mescal set / metalepsis projects necklace / sun hat 

 

If you’re headed to Mexico City anytime soon, Vogue’s travel guide, as well as this one and this one (for traveling with kiddos) are all fab. If you’ve been recently, I would love to know your tips as I’m plotting a future adventure for sure.

In the meantime, for more wanderlust inspiration, including my trip to Sayulita, Mexico, CLICK HERE.

images via yatzerthese foreign lands by lucy laucht, and here

I typically reserve my wanderlusting for far-flung destinations that involve golden beaches and tropical beverages. That said, I’m a sucker for an amazing hotel, no matter its location – even if it is my hometown of Seattle! This is definitely the case with the recently opened hotel Palladian – a uniquely modern retreat in a historic building in the city’s downtown – it is a design darling.

apt34-palladian2

Designed by a fave Bay Area-based design firm NICOLE HOLLIS, the charm of the Palladian is in the details. Even though the Nicole Hollis team is from San Francisco they looked to Seattle for inspiration, from the moody color palettes that reflect the all-too-often gray skies to the use of materials that give a nod to the city’s timber trade and gold rush eras.

Each of the 97 rooms in the boutique hotel were designed with the comforts of home in mind – it’s all just much cooler looking than anything you’re likely to actually have at home. For example, the custom platform beds feature massive reclaimed wood headboards with brass rivets and inset shelving that house reading material and old-school manual clocks. The rooms are dotted with vintage city maps and works by local artists and crazy cool throw pillows featuring famous faces adorn the beds (did you spy Tom Selleck above? You might get to snuggle David Bowie, David Haselhoff and Bill Murray too. I got Leo DiCaprio during my stay).

The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.

The bathrooms are framed by steel barn doors (a cool space-saving tactic you could totally apply at home) and feature classic hexagonal tiles, brass vanity stands and vintage inspired mirrors with bass ledges – I’m obsessed! The larger suites have walk-in showers with classic claw foot tubs. Swoon.

The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.

The Palladian’s presidential suite takes things a step further. It features a dining room, living area and kickass bar. (I spy Lostine bar stools and Seattle-based Ladies & Gentlemen Studio pendants – I adore both of those lines!)

The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.

Inspired by artists’ lofts, the rooms have residential touches including crisp white Frette bed linens, antique area rugs, custom desks, leather sling chairs and curated accessories such as leather-bound books and old-fashioned telephones. TVs are set in custom-made wood artist easels. Warning, you may just want to hang out in your room for your entire visit.

The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.The Palladian, A Kimpton Hotel, Seattle. Designed by Nicole Hollis.

The Palladian also makes a statement the moment you walk in. The lobby has a “speakeasy” vibe with leather banquettes, velvet upholstery and metallic accents. In keeping with the 1910 building’s history, the original terrazzo floors were restored. A tufted-leather library check-in adds the masculine elegance of a Chesterfield sofa and the architectural fireplace surround and curated collection of antique books and vintage accessories create a homey feel. One of my favorite details are the Seattle icons dotted throughout the lobby including “portraits” of Bill Gates, Dr. Fraiser Crane, Dave Mathews and Jimi Hendrix.

From top to bottom the Palladian is spot on. It’s no wonder that the hotel is featured in the new design book Kaleidoscope: Living in Color and Patterns. It’s a book dedicated to expressive interiors and the Palladian definitely has a lot to say.

So if you’re still looking for a summer escape, I would encourage you to consider Seattle. With its crazy good food scene, booming downtown, gorgeous waterfront and stellar coffee on every corner – Seattle is a seriously awesome getaway. It makes me so proud of my little ole hometown. I’m pretty excited to visit later this month and check out all the new things that have popped up recently. For all my Seattle-based readers, please send me your tips!

For more travel ideas CLICK HERE.

photography by laure joliet courtesy of nicole hollis

While I typically dream of jetting off to far flung places, right now I simply wish I could take a quick jaunt to the east coast to check out the pop-up of one of my favorite retailers of all time – The Line. They’ve set up (temporary) shop in the idyllic  hamlet of Amagansett in East Hampton, New York. I not only want to visit, I want to move right in.

apt34-theline-amagansettapt34-theline-amagansett5apt34-theline-amagansett4

Like The Apartments—The Line’s permanent locations in New York City and Los Angeles—the new store is another opportunity to discover The Line’s carefully considered selection of fashion, home, and beauty items in the context of a home – this time beach-side. Located just blocks from the ocean in a white clapboard structure that dates to 1720, the Amagansett location is the ultimate sophisticate’s beach “cottage.” I’m using that term very lightly as the interiors feel like anything but.

Brands featured include Acne Studios, Altuzarra, Calvin Klein Collection, Khaite, Manolo Blahnik, Oliver Peoples, Protagonist; Ash NYC, Flos, Fritz Hansen, Gabriel Scott, Skultuna, and Tenfold New York; Grown Alchemist, Maison Louis Marie, and Sunday Riley.

apt34-line-amagansett3apt34-theline-amagansett6    apt34-theline-amagansett2 apt34-theline-amagansettapt34-theline-amagansett

The space features all kinds of design classics like vintage Børge Mogensen daybeds, a Luteca Air Sofa, a pair of Committee chairs by Pierre Jeanneret and art by Helmut Newton and Ruth Bernhard.

In keeping with the intimate shopping experience The Line has cultivated, the pop-up will offer a range of complimentary services such as wardrobe styling, interior design consulting, gift/wedding registries and personal shopping. The space will also host a Beach Reads lending library, inviting guests to take and/or leave a book by Danielle Steel (mother of The Line‘s executive creative director, Vanessa Traina). Love that touch.

I’ve always loved The Line’s unique concept of shopping in context. You’re really able to craft an entire lifestyle from their vision. This is certainly the chicest beach house I’ve ever seen. I’m already eyeing pieces I want to incorporate into our house!

The Line – Amagansett (154 Main Street) is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m & special store events will be announced throughout the summer. Anyone want to go to the Hamptons with me?!

For more travel inspiration CLICK HERE

photography by hanna tveite courtesy of the line

 

I’ve long had a love affair with Italy. I traveled there for the first time at 17, studied Italian all through college, lived abroad in Siena and have made multiple return trips, including road tripping through northern Italy on my honeymoon. But that was six years ago. To say I’m craving a little la dolce vita right now is an understatement. And it doesn’t help when I find gorgeous hotels straight out of Roman Holiday – like this one.

Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34

Located in a 17th century palazzo building in Piazza Pasquino off of Rome’s famed Piazza Navona, this little gem of a hotel features only 10 rooms, all of which are uniquely designed and beautifully appointed. They’re actually like mini-apartments as they all feature separate sitting areas off of each bedroom, many have terraces & mini kitchenette areas. The furnishings – all selected in homage to early 20th century Italian furniture designers –  is juxtaposed with the centuries old rustic features of the building like its original frescoed walls, tiled bathroom floors and exposed timber beams. Hence the hotel’s name, G-Rough.

Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34 Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34 Beautiful hotel in Italy on Apartment 34

But this please does not feel rough at all. It looks perfect. I love that each room boasts a different theme and color palette, killer light fixtures and spectacular art. The penthouse even has a private terrace that gives you a stunning view of the Sant’Agnese dome in Piazza Navona. The hotel lobby features a bar and lounge that regularly showcases local artists. And apparently the hotel even offers a “Lifestyle Manager” that can hook you up with exclusive behind the scenes types of experiences throughout Rome like design tutorials, private dinners in picturesque places and exclusive VIP access to historic sights throughout Rome. Done and done!

Va bene, I’m in. Who’s ready to hop a plane and head to Rome me?? Ciao ciao!!

For even more wanderlust-worthy destination ideas CLICK HERE.

 

photography courtsey of g-rough // spotted on travel + style