The Cut of Perfection

Okay, so I have a thing for paper. I have always loved all things paper (even have a pinterest board dedicated to it), so when I came across the work of Bianca Chang I was mesmerized   She's an Australian paper cut artist with immense precision - each cut is done by hand (see here for a video)! and I really cannot believe that these works are made up of layers and layers of paper. I don't know about you but I know I wouldn't have the patience!

Photos courtesy of Bianca Chang

A Concrete Idea

Architectural Digest - Michael Weschler Photography

I am a little behind in my reading and so I was going through April's Architectural Digest (okay, I'm a lot behind on my reading) and was struck by the article on the new David Zwimer Gallery by architect Anabelle Selldorf.  The article features the amazing five story staircase and it's wood board imprinted concrete walls (see image above). I have loved concrete as an interior building material and am constantly amazed at how creative and boundary pushing designers are with this material.  No longer do I think that people associate it with being a cold material, but rather that it adds an element of bespoke design that some might say is unparalleled - where else can you find a material that will literally take any form or impression you give it? 

Design Milk

Apartment 34

Randy Weinstein Design

Archdaily

Objects of Desire

ModGirl

I'm also loving the fact that concrete is being used for furnishings - whether lighting or exterior furniture. Some of my favs are below.

Loop Chair by Willy Guhl via DesignBoom

Heavy Desk Light from Benjamin Hubert via Dezeen

A Cabin in the Woods

With Memorial Day having just passed and most people we know having spent the weekend out of the city, it has really made me feel like I need a break. I love Manhattan with all it's hustle and bustle and "city that never sleeps feel" however sometimes it just gets a little overwhelming.  I was perusing Trendland - on of my favorite places for inspiration - and I came across this amazing modern cabin by renowned Seattle-based Olson Kundig Architects. They have a wonderful collection of wood, steel and glass cabins (definitely worth a look) and this particular one is located on the Gulf Islands in British Columbia. I love how simple, clean and perfectly planned it is, nestled in it's surroundings.  This has really inspired me and made me crave a little break in the woods. Any ideas for a weekend getaway?

* How amazing is this outdoor shower? Should be added to post here

Photos Courtesy of Olson Kindig Architect

Quintessentially New York

Okay, so I know that it has been a REALLY long time since I did a Quintessential post, and it's not that we haven't eaten at some wonderful places, but non have really felt like they were post-worthy in terms of design and deliciousness!  Well, Friday night a friend took me out to Boqueria and voila, Quintessential worthy! Inspired by the tapas restaurants of Barcelona, the interior is simple, modern and comfortable with natural materials on the walls, filament bulbs hanging above tables, and aromas that make ones mouth water.  The food was amazing (go with lots of people so you can order lots of things!) and the wine list was nice and extensive with something for everyone.  This is a place where we will definitely go back to, and should be added to anyones NYC list.

Boqueria

Simplicity in Paris

I love simple interior palettes - easy colours, natural materials and a minimal selection of each.  The Paris based firm Robert Gervais Studio seems to tick all those boxes.  The apartment in Place des Ternes is simple, modern and to me stunning. Not too much to say about it...I think that photos speak more than words on this one. Enjoy!

Photos courtesy of Robert Gervais Studio & Trendland