So many books, so little time....

I have lots of work to do so please bear with me while I am taking a short break!

Photo: European Chic

A magical place in Amsterdam

A while ago we spend a few happy days in the chic The Toren Hotel in central Amsterdam. The Toren is located on Keizersgracht in a typical wealthy merchant building constructed in 1618. The family-owned boutique hotel was designed by Win van de Wetering and is a stone throws away from the lively Joordan neighbourhood and around the corner from the Anne Frank Huis. Win's design is opulent and warm but not overwhelming. Unfortunately, I forgot to take my own photos of the hotel.

All photos: The Toren

Join me in front of the fireplace

Fireplaces are, like, essential at this time of year. Here are a few I like:

Photo: Living etc

The pink mirror makes this opulent fireplace funky rather than stuffy.

Photo: Marie Claire Maision

Photo: Living etc

Instead of a traditional black fireplace in a white room here the fireplace is light and walls dark.

Graham and Green recycled tyre tubs, a cool and ecoconscious way of storing firewood.

Italian Impressions III

I was sorting through photos of my recent trips (I travel frequently and am always behind with my photos) and thought you may enjoy seeing these photos of Abruzzo in central Italy. Its a great region for holidays as it is off the beaten path and it offers absolutely everything: pristine beaches, rolling hills topped by ancient farms, culture and art, magnificent churches from all time periods and Roman monuments, and the mountains in the national park for plenty of nature, hikes, skiing and climbing and even wolves (yes!). The local food is great, too, and because of the three micro climate zones very varied. The Provincia di Teramo, for examples offers day trips with a knowledgeable tourist guide for 3 Euros (ask for Pietro).

San Clemente al Vomano

All photos: European Chic

Belgian colours

What a bright and colourful flat in Anvers, Belgium! The whole place oozes fun - but in a stylish way. The painted walls throughout the flat are original commissioned art. How cool is that?

Photos: Marie Claire Maison

More industrial chic

I wanted to explore the industrial style I blogged about last Monday further and came across this 350 squaremeter loft in a former factory in the banlieue parisienne.  I like the mix between modern and sleek and vintage and rustic. Living in a flat with spiral staircase leading to a gallery is my dream.

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

Mademoiselle London

I am excited to tell you about a splendid poetry book that will be launched tomorrow by a dynamic poetess and illustrator duo, Mademoiselle London.
Katya and Franki, the lovely two British expats Ladies from London behind Mademoiselle London live in Paris and created this funny and touching book about Paris. The book is completely bilingual.
You can have an exclusive sneak peek of the book here.

If you happen to live in the Paris area you should not miss the launch party Saturday night. Until then I leave you with one of their poems.

 

All images & poetry: Mademoiselle London

Guest post: Inspired by autum

Last weekend at the Jardin de Luxembourg

And walking along the Seine near Alma Marceau

All photos: European Chic

I was asked to write a guest post for Design Refuge, a wicked new design blog for blogger, which the lovely Dagny featured yesterday afternoon. So hop over and find out what we do here in Paris in autumn.