Happy winter people! It’s only the first of December but I’ve already burning to hit the slopes, especially being amidst of planning our annual New Years get-away. What stated as a harmless 3-day trip to Park City, Utah a few years ago has grown into a real addiction now. Right about this time of year my eyes start hating palm trees and my heart craves winter wonderland. So when I finally got to flip through the latest Elle Decor, I squeaked with jealousy. The cover story – the Turners’ winter retreat is THAT perfect that it makes it so hard to just be happy for the owners and enjoy.
Seriously, just look at it! Filled with rustic wood elements it is still so airy and bright. I totally see myself cuddling by the fireplace with tons of leather-bounded classics from that gorgeous library.
I love the perfect balance of contemporary with traditional qualities.
I need this wood chandelier (plus the one above dining table) for my dream winter chateau so if you see th m – let me know.
<images via www.elledecor.com>
Warm autumn days makes me what to put my boots on and visit the countryside. So it happens that in California the countryside is most likely to include a winery or two. I love little wineries with their perfect design simplicity, stained rustic wood and succinct decor (mostly including wine bottles only). When I came across The Press Club, San Francisco wine tasting room and shop, I gasped at how ideally BCV Architects translated all that we love about country wine tasting into urban surrounding.
Perfect Recipe:
Laconic Architecture – check
Wood (lots of wood) – check
Bottle Decor – CHECK!
The 9,000 sf venue is located within San Francisco’s Four Seasons hotel on Yerba Buena Lane. The 1,100 SF entry level shop entices the visitor inside, and then reveals a grand stair to a subterranean level tasting lounge. The palette of materials mixes warm, sustainably sourced woods with exposed structural elements, suggesting the partnership of the organic and the industrial that is the hallmark of Wine Country. Wine bottles themselves are used in innovative displays that bring color and light to the space.
<images via www.contemporist.com>
Today exactly 3 years ago I married the most amazing man on earth (sorry to break it down to you, single ladies, but yes – he’s already taken:) and those 3 years were the most blessed years of my life. I cant’ thank the God enough for bringing us together from across the planet. Seriously, what were the chances for a guy from Los Angeles to meet a gal from Shadrinsk? But here we are, honey, and I can’t cherish enough every second spent with you. You really make me a better person and I’m looking forward to spending the rest of my life in our arms. I love you!
To celebrate the anniversary we set up the shoot with tremendously talented photographer and my dear friend Jenn Hoffman. Jenn did an amazing job capturing us as we are as well as luscious Downtown LA architecture (which, as you understand, was very important for me). Jenn is the best and can’t recommend her enough. Check our her site and prepare to be impressed!
And now, you guys get the first sneak peek of out shoot! 
<images via www.jennhoffmanphotography.com>
It’s raining…in LA! Really? This weather keeps us on the toes: last week it was unbearably hot, this week cold and raining. Well, I’m not complaining since finally it is perfectly justifiable to be cuddling under the blankets on the gray Monday morning (which is such a rarity here).
For the picture worthy experience, the only thing I’m missing is a fireplace. I wouldn’t mind any model form Focus Creation. By far the most stylish fireplaces and accessories I’ve seen so far.
<images via www.focus-creation.com>
Gosh, it’s hot in LA. 113 F = 45° C for Fall is a bit too much. When everything and everyone around is melting, the only place you want to be is somewhere dark and cool. What comes to my mind is the surreal Atomic Spa Suisse in Exedra Milan Hotel by Simone Micheli.
The unique design of the space lets you completely escape from the reality and allows for an almost metaphysical experience. Playing on the edge of the futuristic design, Micheli engages all of the dimensions: the ceiling transforms into the walls, which melt into the water, which is being reflected on the ceiling. It’s like 3D movie for grown-ups.
<images via www.contemporist.com>
