New Book...French Essence

For sometime now I have anticipated the release of Vicki Archer's latest book French Essence. It does not fail in satisfying my love affair and enthusiasm for all things French! I have enjoyed living vicariously through Vicki's blog and her first book My French Life, which was released in 2006.

French Essence continues Vicki Archer's "love affair with France and in particular Provence" where she lives. "It is a written and photographic celebration of this".

"Vicki Archer reveals the underpinnings of that famous French ambience and sense of style, and offers inspiration to all of us who want to understand the beauty, experience the lifestyle and emulate the interiors of this exquisite part of the world."

To celebrate today's release of French Essence - I share some images I LOVE.....

"I like to think that in France there is a sixth sense - a French sense" Vicki Archer

This book is truly like taking a holiday! With Vicki Archer's inspiring words and Carla Coulson's stunning photography, French Essence is absolutely beautiful...a book I will love reading time and time again!

You can read further here.

Kitchen details...

I always manage to find so many kitchen images I love. It is the detail in this kitchen I love the most. The way the subway tiles extend to the beautiful ceiling with the built in spaces to display everyday items and large stoves - because I love to cook!

French village house...

After finally recovering from the flu I thought it would be lovely to take a small tour around this lovely village house. It was once the ugliest in the village before a four year renovation transformed it into a beautiful space. The living room is simply furnished with four chairs and items from the antique markets. The beautiful inherited chandelier completes the room.

The stairs opening up from the street level lead up to the living room. Simple iron balustrades and linen curtains...

Flea market finds...

The terrace opens to a courtyard and pool below.

Thank you all so much for your lovely well wishes over the past week!

Ax

{images Skona Hem, photographer Clive Tompsett}

Coastal inspiration

I could sit in one of these chairs this morning...soaking in the sun! I have caught the flu this week and have been feeling a little miserable. I think sitting here would help make me feel better!

Hope you all have a lovely day {or evening}.

On the market...

Cedar Springs is a secluded home situated on 114 acres of beautiful Byron Bay hinterland. From what I remember this prestigious property was once owned by Paul Hogan (aka Crocodile Dundee). Approached via a long private driveway this home has been extensively restored over the past few years. Well I thought you may enjoy a peek inside...

the grand entrance and stairs....

the garden room overlooking the pool

the formal dining room...

This has to be my favourite part of the home...imagine relaxing by this pool. Well I would be happy just to occupy the guest house for a weekend.

More images and the floor plan can be seen here...enjoy!

{via realestate.com.au}

Loving...

...these two images

...and that today is the start of spring!

(Image 1. Whitney Stewart & Image 2. Country Living Magazine)

Outdoor tablescape...

Finally Friday is upon us again! I am loving this image from Katie Fine. Looking at it makes me want to set up an outdoor afternoon tea because our weather has been perfect (and I want to sample one of those macaroons!). The glimpse of the pool leaves me wondering what other delights may be found in the garden.

Spring?

The little blossoms appearing on my Peach tree I planted a few weeks ago are signalling that spring is just around the corner. However, I feel like we have skipped spring here in Brisbane and headed straight into summer with the temperature reaching 34 degrees Celsius (93F) the last two days.

Loving this home...

This is the beautiful home of designer Windsor Smith. One of my favourite designers! I have been enjoying these lovely images. Love the limestone floors.

In the family room she created two sitting areas.

Love the painted teak table, velvet and vintage fabrics in this room.

Gorgeous peonies...

Love the dark kitchen and the marble floor.

A simple and romantic bathroom.

{images via HB}

Bedroom retreats...

How wonderful to be able to create a luxurious sitting area within the master bedroom. A perfect place to escape and relax. My bedroom has enough space to add a chair in the corner - a comfortable sitting area to enjoy some quiet times!

{images 1. Traditional Home 2.House Beautiful 3. Women's Day 4. Phoebe Howard 5. House Beautiful 6. Porters Paint}

Happy Weekend...

Have a wonderful weekend and see you next week...

{image via Hus&Hem}

Devine Guest Room...

I always admire the work of Suzanne Kasler and this guest room she designed is so fresh and bright. I especially love the roman shade and custom headboard in Michael Devine Gramercy fabric and the way it ties together the pillows and trim on the bed linen - coastal chic!

More from the Michael Devine linen fabric range which are all available at Oliveaux or view here;

{image 1. Veranda 2&3 Michael Devine Home}

Escape....

I would love to escape and stimulate my senses this weekend and I have found the perfect spot....Villa Padierna Thermas in Spain. A haven of luxury this spa hotel is nestled amongst olive and almond groves.

The grand foyer...

The original spa dates back to the 18th century.

Tempting?

Well instead I will be rolling out the grass in our backyard.I will probably need a trip to the spa once I am finished!! Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Ax

Wonderful Weekend....

Earlier this week I had my wisdom tooth out which left me a somewhat swollen and quiet sore!! I have not had much of a chance to 'blog' this week but want to thank you all for your comments...I really enjoy reading them.

As you have probably noticed I have gardens and courtyards on the brain at the moment - this is the stage I am up to with my renovations.

So I hope you all have a lovely weekend!

Axx

{image via Jane Jones}