PORCHLIGHT INTERIORS

It's that kind of day...

2012-01-24T14:48:00.000+10:00

...that you just want to stay in bed!

Perfect rainy weather makes me feel lazy - now I must get back to work...

Image from here

Dream Home by the sea!

2012-01-19T10:50:00.000+10:00

Adoring this fabulous Spanish Mission style home that is for sale in beautiful Carmel by the Sea!

This is such a casual relaxed style of home that really appeals to me...

There is a home just around the corner from me in this style that I would love to get my hands on one day - decorator's dream!

For more images of this stunning home see here

Loving...Patterned Floors!

2012-01-13T12:34:00.000+10:00

Whether it is tiles, carpet or painted floor boards, I am just loving all the patterned floors around lately! What a gorgeous way to bring another interest into the room! Here are some of my favourites from the latest Veranda magazine...

And this gorgeous example from the latest House Beautiful magazine! T xx

New Beginnings...

2012-01-03T11:14:00.000+10:00

The best thing about starting a new year is that it inspires growth and change! We are so looking forward to what this new year has to bring! Happy New Year all - I'm sure that 2012 will be one to remember!

This gorgeous image is from Cococozy blog and had to be included in our first post for the year as it is one of the most gorgeous kitchens ever and to me it shows how good design can really change your life for the better - fitting start to the new year!

Until Next Year...

2011-12-23T16:22:00.001+10:00

Porchlight Interiors would love to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Looking forward to catching up with everyone in 2012 - love "The Porchlight Girls"! xx

Image via Souther Living

Party Season!

2011-12-16T15:15:00.000+10:00

One of the best parts of having Christmas in Summer are the beautiful outdoor parties we can have to celebrate the season! I have been going through some of my favourite pics to inspire some decorating ideas!

Lights on the pool always add some sparkle...

You can never have too many string lights or candles...

feels like Christmas to me! Happy weekend all - hope you are celebrating in style! Porchlight girls xx

Favourite Spaces by Vincent Wolf!

2011-12-08T12:40:00.001+10:00

I have long been an admirer of the work of Vincent Wolf! These spaces are so liveable and often the colour is added through beautiful fresh flowers...

Love the pink cushions and pink hydrangeas - they just add so much life to this room...

Gorgeous windows bringing so much light into the space - love the black stained floors with the cream cow hide floor rug...

hydrangeas again - stunning!

Just perfect! Hope you have all had a great week and have a fabulous weekend ahead! Kids have been on school holidays all this week which has been mostly lovely (if not a little chaotic!) Tracey xx

Gorgeous Adore Magazine!

2011-12-05T10:14:00.000+10:00

Check out the beautiful new Adore Magazine here!

Thank you Loni for featuring one of our projects - what a great honour to be part of this fabulous holiday issue! Hayley & Tracey xx

Thankful for...

2011-11-24T16:40:00.000+10:00

Of all the celebrations, Thanksgiving is one that I wish more Australians would embrace! Even though this has been a tough year, there is still so much to be thankful for - family, great friends, fabulous clients and work that we love! We are thankful for the changes that come with challenging times! Happy thanksgiving all! Tracey & Hayley xx

This gorgeous image comes from a beautiful blog that we have only recently found - see here for more inspiration!

Making me happy this week...

2011-11-15T13:14:00.000+10:00

This room above is a space that I would call perfect, there is not a thing that I would change - I NEED these green chairs to complete my happiness! I want to thank Abode Love blog for sharing all of these gorgeous images that pulled me out of my design slump yesterday...

Loving the dark walls with the fabulous random artwork and of course that chair...

I am about to do some coloured seagrass wallpaper and I'm loving this soft blue/green colour above with the green furnishings...

and I just had to throw this completely calming bathroom in for good measure!

the best thing about this week is I am finally figuring out how to use my new Mac - this is my first post on it as I am technically challenged and couldn't work out how to load pics! It's like learning a new language!

Hope you enjoyed these fab pics as much as I did - pop over here for more inspiration! Tracey xx

Are We Ready For This?

2011-11-03T16:34:00.000+10:00

All of my magazines are starting to arrive with Christmas being the main theme! While I'm trying to get my head around it - this gorgeous image of the very talented Tricia Guild's home cought my eye! Love how fresh it all looks in the bold colours that Tricia is famous for! With a bit more mag reading - I may be ready to put my tree up in a couple of weeks! To read the full article - see the December issue of Living Etc.

Garden Terrace

2011-11-02T14:04:00.000+10:00

How fabulous are these outdoor spaces - they all show that you don't need a huge yard to enjoy some garden time!

images from here

Love the green gate at the back..

image via HGTV

Perfect spot for Sunday breakfast! Hope you are all enjoying your week. We had another photoshoot this morning which was really fun but exhausting. Now I'm taking a cup of tea break before school pickup - that's when the noisy part of my day begins with 3 hungry boys! These gardens look so peaceful!!! Tracey xx

Dining Perfection!

2011-11-01T22:04:00.000+10:00

Completely loving this dining space by designer Hillary Thomas for Lonny Magazine! It has the perfect combination of mirrored walls, hexagonal table and faux bamboo chairs - how totally glamourous yet still liveable! Of course the green on the seats and accessories might help to sway me as well.

Ensuite Inspiration!

2011-10-27T17:58:00.001+10:00

More bathroom/ensuite inspiration - loving these!

Image via here

Love the calm colours used here...

Image via Country Living

This is my favourite - I just love how simple it is and of course the ceiling is pretty special!

We have just competed a gorgeous bathroom/powder room for a client - we are yet to get photos but I can't wait to share!

T x

Outdoors for the weekend...

2011-10-21T16:47:00.000+10:00

Looking forward to spending some time outdoors this weekend. As the weather is warming up, the pool is beckonning! Would'nt mind escaping my computer and spending a few days away at this gorgeous place in Monaco but for now my own quiet backyard will do nicely! Happy weekend all!

Bathrooms to relax in!

2011-10-05T17:59:00.000+10:00

My headspace is thinking bathrooms of late - maybe because I have three that I hope to renovate over the next 12 months. Loving the balance and calm colours of this gorgeous bathroom! Certainly has the wow factor...

Can't go past classic marble either. Both of these stunning bathrooms are from Willey Designs - well worth taking a look! Tracey xx

Fabric Arrival!

2011-10-03T14:41:00.000+10:00

How gorgeous are these fabrics that finally arrived from the States this morning! We have a beautiful country homestead that these will be going to and can't wait to see the room all pulled together!

We are in catch up mode this week, recovering from taking a bit of time off for school holidays! Happy new week. Tracey & Hayley xx

We can't do everything, but we can do something!

2011-09-28T10:47:00.001+10:00

Photo image taken last week in Nepal by my beautiful daughter Kelsey.

I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.

HELEN KELLER

In my inbox this morning was an email from Charity water. In April this year we did a post on clean water for people living in countries unable to access clean drinking water themselves. I thought i would copy you in on their email and add some links to this worthy cause. I urge our dear readers to tell everyone you know to support and be involved in this most basic necessity to life. My darling daughter Kelsey travelled with 13 of her friends to a village in Nepal 2 weeks ago to help in a school and one of the many orphanages situated up in the mountain. They played with the children, taught them some songs and craft and help paint the walls and add a few new supplies to their school. Her heart just broke the day they visited the orphanage and saw it laden with mould, children sharing beds and flies swarming the face of a tiny three year old girl sleeping in her cot. They too like many places in the world do not have the luxury of clean drinking water.

Here is what the foundation emailed me this morning.......

Hi Porch Light Interiors,

charity: water needs your help! We were so excited to see that you mentioned us in your blog post back in April, and although you may not even realize it, your post helped direct others to join in the mission to help end the world's water crisis. We need people like you to continue helping us spread the word.

I’m reaching out for your help with charity: water’s biggest campaign, and to let you know by doing so, there is a chance to add your name to a drilling rig in Ethiopia!

WHAT WE’RE DOING

At the start of this month we launched our 5th Annual September Campaign, our most ambitious campaign to date: we’re trying to spark over 1000 individual fundraising campaigns to fund a $1.2 million drilling rig that will be able to dig 80 wells each year, that can provide 40,000 people clean water.

AND if we hit that fundraising target this year, a matching donor will buy ANOTHER rig, ensuring 40,000 more people a year with clean water.

WHY WE NEED YOUR HELP

So far we’ve raised over $400,000 and over 600 people have started fundraising campaigns. A good start, but we need more help! The campaign will remain open until October 31, and we need your participation to tell more people about it, to share the story, and hopefully to encourage people to join us in fundraising!

YOUR NAME ON A RIG

So this September 30 we’re asking a few dozen bloggers we know care about our cause to write a post highlighting the September Campaign. We’ll reward 3 of these blogs by putting their name on the drilling rig (and of course, we’ll send you photos). The two posts that send us the most traffic this Friday, and the post our staff vote as their favorite, will win their names on the rig!

LEARN MORE – USTREAM THIS WEDNESDAY

This Wednesday from 6:30-7pm ET we’re hosting a special ustream chat session with our CEO and Founder Scott Harrison. We’re opening this up exclusively to September Campaigners and those bloggers we feel can create a buzz about charity: water’s September Campaign!

Just visit http://ustream.tv/charitywater at 6:30pm ET Wednesday September 28 to join.

LINKS AND INFO

We’ve got a lot of great material and information about the campaign for you to check out:

September Campaign site: http://charitywater.org/september

September Campaign Video (4 minutes): http://vimeo.com/28104222

Our 5th anniversary Thank You Video: http://youtube.com/charitywaterthanks

September Assets Page (photos, banners etc): http://charitywater.org/september/assets

Detailed blog post on the rig: http://www.charitywater.org/blog/sept-2011-costs/

A little bit of colour!

2011-09-27T10:10:00.000+10:00

Loving this new fabric and wallpaper range - so pretty for Spring! Contact us for more details!

Getting Away!

2011-09-22T10:30:00.001+10:00

image from here

We are heading to the beach for a few days away to enjoy this gorgeous Spring sunshine - can't wait to get there!!!

Have a great weekend - mine's starting now! Tracey xx

New cushions for spring!

2011-09-15T17:53:00.000+10:00

I just love spring time, it naturally feels like the birth of something new. It's also a great time to add colour to your home. We decided that after so many enquiries of the beautiful Raoul cushions and lampshades shown in our Home Beautiful feature this month we would do a close up feature on more of these beautiful fabrics plus a few other favorites that we have done for clients lately. Beautiful fabrics in your home are like adding artwork in your home. It makes your heart flutter to be near something so gorgeous.You may also like to know that we do our own custom made sofas to our clients specifications as well as reupholstering much loved pieces like this sofa i have just had recovered in my most favorite Raoul fabric. I saw this fabric in their showroom in Santa Barbara and knew i had to use it and i am very happy with the result.

I gorgeous find on ebay, a lick of paint and a covered seat cushion makes it look amazing!www.porchlightinteriors.com.au

Lonny Highlights!

2011-09-13T12:27:00.000+10:00

India Hicks living room!

Kitchen by Celerie Kemble

I always look forward to the next issue of Lonny Magazine and this latest issue certainly did not dissappoint! With two of my favourite style icons featured - Celerie Kemble and India Hicks, it was a most inspiring read! Hope you are all having a great week! Tracey xx

We would love to thank Louise from Table Tonic and Annie from A View On Design for their lovely posts and everyone else who has sent us emails and left encouraging comments! We really appreciate the support!

For anyone wanting more information about our work, contact Porchlight Interiors for a consultation! H & T xx

A little more of my house

2011-09-07T17:34:00.000+10:00

This is actually my favorite room. i designed the cabinetry and had my fabulous cabinet maker work his magic and it's exactly what i wanted. i bought the handles home from one of my trips the to fabulous USA last year and i think it finishes the look off perfectly. The flowers are from the very talented Phoebe Stephens in Fortitude Valley. I love to fill the open shelves with my favorite books and ornamental objects.

I had my sofa custom made from our manufacturer in Melbourne using a pale blue/ grey linen and chose one of my favorite Raoul linen fabrics for cushions. There are two open weave chairs that suit the room which over looks our pool.

You may notice the two prints above the sofa from the very lovely and talented Kerri from Driftwood Interiors. We certainly have some talent in Queensland. I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank Kerri for the very kind mention on her blog. It was a privilege to use these amazing prints.

The hand beaded lamp on the side table is from Gia Collectiones. She has the most amazing collection of lighting which is available through Porchlight Interiors

i do love my kitchen. it features an Island bench 3600mm long x 1400mm wide with a large Calacutta slab of marble on top. Once again the handles were bought over in the States in polished nickel that match the lights and Perrin and Rowe tap. I am currently sitting at my little study area which you can see on the side of the photo to do this post. We use this room all the time. It's the most social room of the house and a great place to entertain. Now that Spring has arrived, we open the large bi-fold doors to the outdoor area and pool.

This is the main bathroom for my three children. I wanted to keep a theme throughout the house with the cabinetry and marble tops by using the polished nickel hardware and taps. The wall sconces also match and i love the little lamp shades that i bought from Anthropologie (one of my most favorite stores)

This image shows a little of the ceiling feature we did and the beautiful American Oak timber floors we had stained in this dark colour. The floors add so much drama to the house and help accentuate the furniture and colours throughout the house.

And that's my house, thanks for stopping by to visit.www.porchlightinteriors.com.auwww.driftwoodinteriors.com.au

Thanks Home Beautiful!

2011-09-05T13:07:00.001+10:00

Well after much anticipation, the feature on our house in lovely Queensland is now available from your favorite news stand. We had so much fun working with the fabulous stylist Roseanne Peach and photographer John Downes from Home Beautiful magazine.
Thanks so much for the opportunity to show case some of our work at PorchLight Interiors.
Love, Hayley xx

Style Conscious Holidays!

2011-09-01T21:39:00.000+10:00

While reading the latest gorgeous issue of Australian Belle Magazine I came across an article on Terry Kaljo who has an amazing portfolio of beautiful boutique luxury serviced accomodation. This stunning property in Byron Bay happens to be one of them and I must say it looks exactly like the kind of place I would love to relax in!

The Rockridge Villa overlooks one of the best views in the world (in my humble opinion)...

Relaxing is so much easier when you are not mentally redecorating your appartment!

Would love to know if anyone has stayed in this gorgeous villa - it's only 2 hours South from us so I think it could be the perfect getaway! T xx

All images via here

The Weather Effect!

2011-08-25T16:37:00.000+10:00

What an impact the seasons have on our decorating - you can see it all over blogland! In the Southern Hemisphere we are all so ready for some warm weather and you can see the change in colour and mood. I've been going through my inspiration files for clients and colour just keeps speaking to me! I think it's a way of preparing our homes for Spring and the warmer weather ahead!

These images just make me think of summer days...

so fresh and happy...

what a mood changer! Can't wait...

Images: 1.Lily Pulitzer Home 2 & 3. BHG 4.Country Living Mag

Time to Relax!

2011-08-19T16:29:00.000+10:00

After another fabulous but crazy week (fitting work around children on holidays), I feel I deserve a cup of tea and time out with one of my favourite Aussie mags - Vogue Living! This is to prepare me for a weekend of relaxation! Have a good one! T xx

I would like to thank Frances from Beautiful Interiors & 18th Century Style for passing on the "One Lovely Blog Award" to us! We always enjoy heading over to Frances's blog for some French style inspiration!

Thanks again Frances!

Gorgeous Custom Lampshades!

2011-08-16T10:35:00.000+10:00

Loving these beautiful lampshades we had done in time for a recent photo shoot using one of our favourite stunning Raoul fabrics! So fresh and perfect for Spring which is just around the corner!

Thanks & Happy Weekend!

2011-08-12T12:29:00.000+10:00

We would just like to say thank you to the gorgeous girls at Ivy & Piper for including us in their latest gorgeous issue! Click here to read this issue! Have a fabulous weekend all! H & T xx

Winter Wonderland!

2011-08-08T19:09:00.000+10:00

Well before Winter becomes a distant memory for us, I just had to post this gorgeous home in all of it's wintery glory!

such an elegant room...

beautiful dining space...

stunning bathroom - notice the subway tiles layed vertically...perfection!

This just makes me long for a climate where we get to enjoy the snow - I'm sure if I lived with it the novelty would wear off! Happy new week all!

This beautiful home is the work of Crisp Architects.

New Orleans Home!

2011-08-05T09:25:00.000+10:00

I just adore this room by New York based interior designers John Loecke Interior Design. The home is in New Orleans and fuses bothe NY an NO styles! For more gorgeous images of this home click here!

Happy weekend all!

House Jewellery!

2011-08-02T15:07:00.000+10:00

How gorgeous are these shell garlands draped over this beautiful silver vase!

These are some snaps we took using pieces from one of our favourite suppliers - just adds a bit of coastal chic to the room!

Venetian Beauty!

2011-08-01T14:07:00.000+10:00

I'm starting to plan for our trip to Italy next year - after-all, half the fun is in the planning! I fell in love with this gorgeous apartment called Morosini in Venice!

Just look at all of the faboulous details - I think I would never want to leave!

Of course a view of the canal makes it all the more special! Would love some tips on must-see places if any of you have them! Tracey xx

See here for more information on this gorgeous apartment!

Shower Room!

2011-07-06T22:35:00.001+10:00

via House Beautiful

Isn't this just the perfect showering space - from the tiles on the ceiling to the gorgeous French doors with sheer curtains and of course the marble floor tiles! Love it!

Cute with a view!

2011-07-05T09:05:00.000+10:00

While searching for real estate over the weekend, I came across this gorgeous little house in Manly, NSW! Looks like the pefect beachside getaway to me! I have spent many a holiday in the beautiful part of the world and would love to have a place of my own here one day!

Not a bad outlook from the veranda...

Not a bad way to pass some time - daydreaming of moving to beautiful Manly! If you are interested in this property - details here!

Sweetest Fabric Launch!

2011-07-04T13:11:00.000+10:00

Just recieved an email about these gorgeous fabrics about to be launched by Tara Davy for Kelani Fabrics!

So cute for kids bedrooms...

and clothes!

And something for the grown-ups! Loving the neutrals with white! . It's all hand screen printed, 100 percent linen and 100 percent certified organic Australian made jersey.

Happy new week all! Tracey xx

Office Tranquility!

2011-07-01T11:12:00.000+10:00

I have been avoiding my office of late as it had become so disorganised that it was depressing to go in to! My boys keep asking me "why are you working from the dining room or the lounge room?" Finally I cracked this morning and have spent some time organising and discarding things and it's starting to look like a place I may want to spend some quality time in soon!

image via here

These gorgeous images certainly encouraged me to keep going...

image from BHG

from BHG

It is so important to have a workspace that inspires you - hopefully with a bit more work over the weekend, my office will be a place that is a pleasure to work in again! Happy weekend all! Tracey xx

Just add colour!

2011-06-29T09:22:00.000+10:00

I'm completely in love with house from the latest issue of World of Interiors! The bold colours, the amazing fabric combinations, love it all!

Green kitchen tiles - could they be any more gorgeous?

Stunning fabrics...

Of course we needed to see them close up! Love the sqare tiles set in a subway pattern! Tracey xx

Happy Weekend!

2011-06-24T16:22:00.000+10:00

Loving this gorgeous fireplace - looks like the perfect place to relax over the weekend. Hope you all had a great week - ours has been hectic. I hope to have some time to catch up on some blogs over the weekend and see what you have all been up to. T xx

Image from the latest issue of Veranda Magazine

Green Piece!

2011-06-15T22:19:00.000+10:00

How perfect is this green sideboard - I wouldn't be able to resist such a piece!

Appologies for our lack of posts and comments - we have thrown ourselves into multiple fabulous and fun projects which are keeping us otherwise occupied. Beside which Blogger keeps sending comments as annonymous - very annoying!!! Hope everyone is having a great week! Tracey & Hayley xx

Image from here

Textile Love!

2011-06-02T11:59:00.001+10:00

I was very excited when looking through my latest issue of British Homes & Gardens magazine, I found a fabulous article on Raoul Textiles!

I know we have posted about them before but it was so lovely to read about how it started and the direction that they are taking the company in the future. You can see the passion behind these gorgeous fabrics - the designer is an amazing artist...

This is the owner and fabric designer Sally McQuillan and her daughter Madeleine who has now joined the family business...

We never get tired of looking through our gorgeous sample boxes for inspiration and thankfully our clients are loving this stunning range as well! T xx

Winter is here...

2011-06-01T13:59:00.000+10:00

I know all you lovelies from the Northern hemisphere are happy to be welcoming Summer but here in Australia, I'm really happy to light up the fire and enjoy the cosiness of a good night in with the beautiful cold Winter nights!

Just thought I would share some fireplace inspiration from one of my favourite designers John Jacob!

And I'm just going to share this pic of my backyard yesterday in the middle of a hail storm - my boys were very excited! This cooled everything down nicely! Happy winter everyone in the Southern hemisphere! T xx

Colour Perfection (and for once it's not green)!

2011-05-30T11:05:00.000+10:00

I just adore this room with it's stunning colour combinations by designer Hillary Thomas. That gorgeous little sofa has just the right amount of cushions and the fabrics are just amazing with the perfect watermellon pink colourway and accent pale blue! Happy new week all! T xx

Perfect Reading Nook!

2011-05-26T16:52:00.001+10:00

I just adore this gorgeous little reading nook in the latest House Beautiful magazine...I can imagine sitting here reading with my boys! It's great when you can utilise small areas to create such magical, usable spaces! Hope you are all having a great week - the weekend can't come quick enough for me, although Hayle and I enjoyed a little time-out in the sun down at beautiful Redcliffe today - it was just what we both needed! It's great when you can incorporate a little down time into your workday. T xx

Look what I cooked...

2011-05-23T09:20:00.000+10:00

I've had this cookbook for about a year and have never cooked anything out of it until this weekend...

This is a very dense almond crumble cake as pictured in the book...

And this is how mine turned out! I have to say, it tasted devine but knowing how much butter went into it, it is definitely for special occasions!

Hope you all had a lovely weekend and are ready for another busy week ahead! Tracey xx

Elegant Outdoor Furniture!

2011-05-18T14:58:00.000+10:00

With the gorgeous Raffles Hotel as the backdrop, these beautiful cane furniture pieces look amazing!

Such a gorgeous hotel and all of these cane pieces are available through Porchlight Interiors!

Client Envy!

2011-05-17T17:45:00.001+10:00

I ordered this gorgeous lampbase for a client this week and I'm now having serious client envy! One of the hard parts of the job is not buying every gorgeous thing you source for clients - anyone else have this problem? We are getting a gorgeous lampshade made for it which I can't wait to see!

Hope you are having a great week! Tracey xx

Cottage Perfection!

2011-05-12T13:44:00.000+10:00

How cute is this thatched roof cottage in Cape Town!!!

I just love quirky properies - never boring!

Beautiful interiors as well...

I'm still addicted to property hunting after all these years. I have never been to South Africa but for some reason I am always attracted to their sense of style!

Home from here

Happy mothers day weekend

2011-05-06T13:54:00.000+10:00

Love a long breakfast on the weekend.

Happy mothers day to all our wonderful mums!

Shutters Santa Monica via venere.com

Back from the Upholsterers...

2011-05-02T18:09:00.000+10:00

We have just had these gorgeous French chairs upholstered for a lovely lady down on the Gold Coast! We chose the cream and gold Carolyn Quartermaine for the back and a complimentary cream and gold stripe for the front!

The client sent through these gorgeous snaps of them the day they arrived!

Couldn't have been happier with the results!

She also had these beatiful French carvers which we had covered in a blue/grey silk with hand painted flowers - so pretty! Working with gorgeous fabrics really is one of the best parts of our job!

Well the long weekend is almost over - back to work tomorrow! Tracey xx

Wasn't it Romantic!

2011-05-01T17:10:00.001+10:00

What a gorgeous night we had watching on as Wills and Kate tied the knot! She really was the most elegant bride! Georgeousness all 'round!

The Fascinator is ready...

2011-04-29T14:47:00.000+10:00

for our Royal Wedding celebrations tonight!

High tea and hats are in order for the evening! Can't wait to see what Kate is wearing!

Happy weekend all - hope you are all celebrating in style!

Our Website Finally Updated!

2011-04-28T10:53:00.001+10:00

You may have noticed we have updated some of our portfolio photos down the side of our blog in the last week. Well this morning we finally uploaded our updated website which shows more of our recent work. We still have more projects to add but not quite yet! We have also joined facebook and Twitter and would love for you to follow us as we figure out what we are doing! There are links through from our website - Porchlight Interiors.

Happy to take any tips or advice from you more seasoned facebookers and twitterers out there! Thanks for your support!

Hayley & Tracey xx

We love Raoul textiles and Santa Barbara style

2011-04-27T14:46:00.000+10:00

Some of our gorgeous Raoul samples- We just love the vibrant colours!

Perfect coastal blues.......

Cushions available now through Porchlight Interiors

Last November I had the priveledge of visiting the Raoul design showroom. It is absolutely amazing and personifies the Santa Barbara style which fits so perfectly into our Queensland lifestyle.

Santa Barbara architecture along the gorgeous coastline

We cannot afford to ignore this!

2011-04-25T21:15:00.000+10:00

My daughter was showing me this youtube clip tonight and we all know this problem exists but we can all do something small to create something big. Go to www.charitywater.org

Just In Time!

2011-04-24T12:01:00.000+10:00

A bit of fun Easter reading arrived just in time for my Easter break on Thursday! I finally received my much anticipated copy of Summers in France by Kathryn M Ireland which is absolutely gorgeous! And Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange - also a stunning book! I figure these are way less fattening gifts over the Easter Break.

Hope you are all having a wonderful Easter!

Gorgeous in White!

2011-04-15T16:25:00.000+10:00

I just adore this gorgeous home from the latest British Homes & Gardens! The white backdrop is just perfect to reflect all the fabulous light coming in through the stunning glass ceilings!

Happy weekend all!

Island Lifestyle!

2011-04-11T18:00:00.000+10:00

How perfect is this home on the West Coast of Barbados?

I could certainly happily wake up this view every morning...

Simply perfect...

Such a gorgeous style of home - all images found here.

Sorry about our lack of posts - we have been a little preoccupied with work and getting some of our work photographed which we will share soon!

Feel Good Photography!

2011-03-31T18:28:00.000+10:00

I just adore the work of photographer Slim Aarons! Looking through his body of work it is easy to see that he loved water and glamourous people!

He began working as a photographer in the 1950's and photographed many celebrities ...

he really captures the California culture perfectly!

To see more of his gorgeous pics look here!

Saying Goodbye to Summer!

2011-03-24T18:22:00.000+10:00

We are spending as much time as possible by the pool before the cool change comes! With temperatures above 30 degrees for most of this week, it feels like Summer came late!

This gorgeous image is from the latest Veranda magazine - love it!

Loft Living!

2011-03-22T14:59:00.001+10:00

I just love to see spaces used in quirky and unusual ways! This gorgeous house in the latest British Homes & Gardens magazine really appeals!

I love the drama of the high ceilings which is accentuated by the black cabinetry with the full height ladder...

The room below almost looks like it belongs in a different house - quite sophisticated!

One of my favourite features is the large scale steel doors and windows - incredibly bold and just plain gorgeous!

It just seems like every bit of space has been used to it's best advantage and to me that is the very definition of great design!

Hope you are all having a great start to the week. We are throwing ourselves back into things after a fabulous few days in Sydney for the Hillsong Colour Conference where we spent an amazing 3 days with 10 thousand other women - how empowering is that!

Fabulous Fabrics!

2011-03-16T17:27:00.000+10:00

One of the best parts of our job is looking at all of the gorgeous fabrics available! We were not disappointed this week when one of our lovely fabric suppliers stopped by for a visit and showed us this gorgeous range! We are really looking forward to using some of these lovelies in some upcoming projects...so fresh and fun, perfect for cushions, chair upholstery and ottomans!

Well we are heading back to Sydney for the rest of the week - it feels like we live there lately! See you all in a few days. T & H xx

Cape Town Beach House!

2011-03-13T17:45:00.001+10:00

This is my kind of beach house! Love the relaxed style!

Beautiful beamed ceilings...

Love the arched door with the high pitched roof, framing the most stunning of views...

Gorgeous kids space...

Perfect spot to enjoy breakfast with a view!

If you have plenty of money to spare and would like to buy this beautiful property, it is for sale here! Hope you had a wonderful weekend - I've spent the day recovering from a migrain, very annoying!

Can't Wait For This!

2011-03-10T17:21:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited to see that Kathryn Ireland has a new book coming out showing her home in France! We have loved both of her other books and have been inspired by hearing her speak about her life as a designer. To pre-order your copy go here!

Travel to Inspire!

2011-03-07T10:12:00.001+10:00

After a restful weekend which included some time to daydream over travel websites, I came across the most inspiring and stunning hotel I have seen in a long time! It's definitely on my list of places to visit when I eventually head back to Italy! Enjoy!!

How about you - where is your dream destination?

All images from Grand Hotel Maramare - Portofino

Time Out!

2011-03-04T18:06:00.000+10:00

I can't remember a time when I have been so ready for the weekend! It's been one exhausting week but I have lots of plans for relaxing over the next couple of days and the rainy weather only makes it more perfect!

Happy weekend all!

Image via here

Serenity!

2011-03-03T11:21:00.001+10:00

While I love a bit of colour when it comes to decorating a room, I find these monochromatic spaces very calming!

The cream and black combination always works...

very elegant...

strategically placed flowers for a bit of colour...

Gorgeous buttoned sofa - simply perfect!

All of these fabulous room are by Thomas Pheasant.

Goodbye Summer!

2011-02-28T17:51:00.000+10:00

The best part of Summer are the lazy afternoons by the pool, watching the boys swimming after school! Hopefully Autumn will start late!

Love this gorgeous outdoor area found in Metro Home! How gorgeous are the black painted chairs?

Weekend Dreaming!

2011-02-25T12:50:00.000+10:00

While I have a perfectly lovely weekend planned, I still can't help wishing I was spending it here in this gorgeous resort in the Cayman Islands! Happy weekend all!

Image from here

His and Hers Bathroom!

2011-02-23T18:07:00.000+10:00

How gorgeous is this bathroom in the latest House Beautiful magazine!

Love the side by side sinks...

and the most stunning of bath tubs...

all perfectly accessorised with pink towels!

Sneak peak

2011-02-18T18:11:00.003+10:00

This is a small snippet of the living room in my new house. I will get around to revealing more over the next month or so as things get finished. i do have a different lamp shade on the way as well as plans for a new floor rug, but hey, it's still home!

This cute chippendale chair is now available through Porchlight Interiors along with the Kathryn Ireland cushions.

New Addiction!

2011-02-16T16:22:00.000+10:00

I am overwhelmed by all of the beautiful images I have been bombarded with over at Houzz.com!

It's like a collection of all of your favourite blog posts on one website!

Wherever am I going to find the time for another addiction!

images found here

Simply Gorgeous Kitchen!

2011-02-16T08:08:00.000+10:00

How perfectly gorgeous is this kitchen? I just love the simple style with the perfect

accessories! The lemons in the jar are just perfection!

image from here

Fabulous Lamp Base!

2011-02-10T17:20:00.000+10:00

We saw so many gorgeous new pieces on our trip to the trade fair last week - this gorgeous lamp base was one of them! Very cute!

A Floating Holiday House!

2011-02-04T12:27:00.000+10:00

Doesn't this look like the most perfect place to spend the weekend???

I'm feeling more relaxed just looking at the picture...have a wonderful weekend all!

image from here

Picture Perfect Sydney!

2011-02-03T12:04:00.001+10:00

Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Cyclone Yasi in North Queensland today - the images of the devastation are unbelievable! I think we Queenslanders are in need of a break!

Well it is trade show time of year again and I must admit we couldn't resist taking a long lunch yesterday on such a perfect day in Sydney...

After all, who could resist such a gorgeous view...

this was the outlook from our table at Doyles Restaurant at Circular Quay!

and I just had to add this gorgeous David Bromley painting which is painted on three stacked shipping containers down at Circular Quay - how fabulous! Tracey & Hayley xx

Salt & Pepper

2011-01-27T13:25:00.000+10:00

I love to go shopping in Montana Ave in Santa Monica when i visit. One of my must stop stores is the Jonathan Adler shop. Last time i purchased these gorgeous Salt & Pepper shakers. How adorable!!

Happy Australia Day!

2011-01-26T08:40:00.000+10:00

Have a fabulous day celebrating everythiing we love about our gorgeous country! Of course, like most of Australia, we will be enjoying a BBQ lunch by the water - how are you celebrating?

Fresh Start II...

2011-01-25T20:57:00.001+10:00

I'm finding these gorgeous rooms by Pal & Smith extremely fresh and renewing...just what the doctor ordered!

What an amazing statement this light makes with the fabulous black balastrading in the background...

Amazing use of colour - perfection...

Love the yellow chair...

What an incredible space - the windows, the shelving, the balastrading and I can never go past black and white...

What do you think???

Accepting Change...

2011-01-20T15:58:00.000+10:00

I just had to post a pretty picture because I couldn't bear to look at any more devastation. This has been an exhausting week for so many people and we really admire the strength and dedication of all the people rolling up their sleeves and working towards getting our city back up and running. We really appreciate everyones lovely comments and prayers as well. We thankfully have not had our homes affected, only our office space. We have spent this week emptying out our furniture (which was moved to a mezanine level and was therefore, thankfully undamaged). We now have to decide which direction our business will take. Nothing llike a natural disaster to push you out of your comfort zone and into a new direction. We will keep you posted...H & T xx

Image via here

Watching and waiting.........

2011-01-13T21:29:00.000+10:00

this is our lovely Brisbane River turned into a raging rapid

Our street!! We cannot get anywhere near our office but estimate that the height of the water will be around one metre over the floor. Big clean up next week!

Top of our street. we are at the other end near the river.

Disaster Zone!

2011-01-12T12:07:00.000+10:00

We have spent the morning evacuating our office space in West End! Apparently the water will be at least 2 metres higher than it was when this pic was taken and I'm sure there will be a huge clean up when we get back in next week. This is nothing though compared to all the people who were evacuating their homes with only a suitcase. Our hearts go out to everyone who is affected by this disaster! Hayley & Tracey xx

Fresh Start!

2011-01-10T11:41:00.000+10:00

Well we are back from our Christmas break and ready to start an exciting and fresh new year. We have so many new plans for this year and can hardly wait to get started!

The holidays have been a great opportunity to catch up on some magazine reading and we have found plenty of inspiration for upcoming projects...

I know we are a bit late with the Happy New Year thing but putting it out there anyway. Looking forward to another fun filled year and catching up on all the blog inspiration as well. Hayley & Tracey xx

Imaged from here

Signing Off!

2010-12-24T11:19:00.001+10:00

Thought I would show you my very unstyled bookshelves with presents shoved in to get them off the floor. I seem to have present piles everywhere at the moment...but only for one more day! Wishing everyone a very merry christmas and a happy new year - we look forward to catching up in 2011! Tracey & Hayley xx

The Entertaining Season!

2010-12-17T14:26:00.000+10:00

I love everything about this time of year but one of my favourite things is cooking! I try to avoid anything complicated during the year but in December, I can justify taking longer to make all the gorgeous Christmas food!

I just love the look of this kitchen with all the fabulous food laid out and happy bubbles on the bench!

Hoping it stops raining long enough to enjoy some time outdoors this weekend too! Happy weekend all, and wishing everyone a very merry festive season!

images via here

So lovely!

2010-12-16T09:55:00.000+10:00

I'm loving the latest Australian Vogue Living as usual! One of my favourite articles was about 'The Millswyn', a recently revamped restaurant designed by Paul Hecker and Hamish Guthrie.

The Millswyn

I just adore the chairs and the neutral colouring. There are many more images in this months Vogue Living - well worth a look!

Image via here

Fun Porchlight Photo Shoot!

2010-12-01T22:11:00.000+10:00

Although it has been pouring down with rain all day today, we still managed to have some fun taking photos of a clients beautiful home. We finished this home earlier in the year and finally got around to going back for some pics...thought you might enjoy a look!

Formal dining room freshened up with some new chairs...

Beautiful sitting area with fireplace - a perfect getaway for some quiet time...

This is a gorgeous enclosed porch with views overlooking the city - now there is a beautiful place to sit and enjoy the outlook! We used stunning and practical (not two words usually used together) outdoor fabric for this area and couldn't be happier with the look.

Hope you are all enjoying your week - only 2 more days until the kids are on school holidays so mad rush is on. Tracey xx

Looking to Martha...

2010-11-30T22:54:00.000+10:00

I would normally be far more organised with my Christmas decorating by this time of year but with everything else that has been going on I have done the bare minimum.

Where else would I go for inspiration to keep pushing forward than to Martha Stewart! For the first time in many years, I actually have a mantle that I can decorate this year - the possiblilities are endless...

I think I really need to simplify my tree...

And perhaps it is time to make another garland! Then I wonder when I will be making time for all of this! Happy festive season all - I can't wait to see all the Christmas inspiration in blogland! Tracey xx

Back from Malaysia!

2010-11-23T11:24:00.000+10:00

Just thought I would share a few of my snapshots from my trip to Malaysia last week...

We spent our first night at the Saujana Hotel which was a little tired but in a good way - very enjoyable experience...The best part was going to the spa for a 90minute massage in the award winning Saujana Spa and Med.

Random snap of a cafe we went too - just because I liked the hanging birdcage lanterns...

The gorgeous Christmas display at the Pavillion shopping centre - where I spent a good deal of my time (and money)...

There were gorgeous gardens everywhere thanks to the tropical climate. All in all, it was a very relaxing time away just with my hubby. Now I'm rushing to get everything organised before the Christmas break but definitately feeling more refreshed from our getaway. Tracey xx

Elegant Dining!

2010-11-08T11:32:00.000+10:00

Please excuse our lack of posts - I have been working like a mad woman while Hayley is having a fab time in the U.S...again!!! Anyway, it's my turn next week to head off for some R&R in Malaysia with only a little bit of work thrown in. I'm leaving her a long to do list!

I'm loving this gorgeous dining room by Phoebe Howard - a little bit of green always calms me down when I'm feeling stressed! Wishing everyone a happy new week! Tracey xx

PS. Just keeping our fellow blogger A-M in our prayers this week - she has been so kind to us over the years and we are wishing her only good things ahead!

Green and Gold...

2010-10-29T09:26:00.000+10:00

I really love this room by Tobi Fairley using green and gold as accent colours with a neutral white background! It's amazing what some well chosen colour can do. Of course, I can never go past a starburst mirror either. Happy weekend!

Statement Piece!

2010-10-25T17:02:00.000+10:00

How gorgeous are these chairs in the entry of one of Jan Showers projects? It's always lovely to seen something a little unexpected! Tracey xx

Trees!

2010-10-21T13:54:00.000+10:00

How gorgeous is this restaurant in Soho House NY. The trees really make it something amazing! Of course, the lighting is pretty perfect as well! Having another hectic week here but managed to squeeze in a long coffee break this morning so all is right with the world!

Rob Lowe Has Style!

2010-10-15T07:56:00.000+10:00

I thought we could bring in the weekend admiring this stunning home built for Rob Lowe and his family in California?

Perfect spot for spending a lazy weekend!

Gorgeous living room...

Love the window seat in the bedroom...

What a view! Hope you all have a fabulous weekend! Tracey xx

All images via here

A little bit inspired...

2010-10-12T11:47:00.000+10:00

Just loving the simple styling and gorgeous content of these photos by James Merrell.

You just can't beat the impact of simpicity!

Doesn't this look like a great place to hang out! Tracey xx

Christmas shopping in KL!

2010-10-06T19:50:00.001+10:00

Pavillion Department Store

I'm very excited to be going on my first trip to Kuala Lumpur next month. My hubby is going for work and I get to tag along for the ride. I've been doing a little research to check out some great shopping but I'm happy if anyone out there has some suggestions! How gorgeous does this department store look? Tracey xx

Keeping it simple...

2010-10-04T19:19:00.000+10:00

I am just in the process of helping a client redo her office/workroom. You just can't go past a gorgeous big bookcase to keep things organised!

image via House Beautiful

Happy new week all! Tracey xx

Back in the swing...

2010-09-28T09:45:00.002+10:00

Well we are back from our break and have been thrown into the deep end with lots of projects awaiting our attention...how fun! While we were away I read lots of mags to get reinspired for the work ahead.

This gorgeous home was in the UK edition of Elle Decoration and I have to say it was amazing!

This home is in Saint Barthelemy in the West Indies and is the work of Architects Kathy Adam and Lesley Batchelor and interior designer Alisa Thiry - I think they have done fabuous work here!

Not over the gorgeous bathroom obsession yet!

I think I could really relax here! Looking forward to catching up on some blogs now that we are back! Tracey xx

All images via Pure St Barth Magazine

Miss you already...

2010-09-17T08:46:00.000+10:00

It's that time of year again...we are taking the kids camping as we have done every year for the past 5 years! It seemed appropriate to post a gorgeous bathroom because this is what I will miss the most! Hope everyone has a great weekend and we will catch up when we get back.

Feeling Relaxed!

2010-09-13T16:02:00.000+10:00

These gorgeous rooms by Boston interior designer Anthony Catalfano had me feeling instantly relaxed! You just can't beat these soft tones to create a calm, yet beautiful environment!

Perhaps they are more appealing to me right now as I'm madly trying to get jobs done before school holidays start on Wednesday!