Olga de Amaral

There are so many things to love about the Colombian home of handbag designer Nancy Gonzalez that was featured in the latest AD (below). Designed with the help of Jean-Louis Deniot...how can you go wrong?  The serene colour palette, the furnishings, the openness of the space and...the light. Such a delight.

One of the many elements that really stood out to me, was the lovely piece by Gonzalez's friend, Colombian textile artist Olga de Amaral.

I've been aware of de Amaral's existence for some time now, so it certainly was nice to see one of her pieces installed in such a lovely interior.

Having worked with textiles for many years early in my career before transitioning to interiors, beautiful fabrics will always be my first love and a passion of mine, which is probably why de Amaral's work speaks to me.

de Amaral's internationally renowned work is often in the form of a large tapestries, and she is known for her architectural and sculptural constructions that “turn textiles into golden surfaces of light.” Her always evolving artisanal techniques which incorporate paint and gesso coated fibres, and precious metals, seamlessly integrate art, craft, and design. She is a pioneering textile artist, who in the 1960s helped to turn textile arts from a primarily 2D representational art form into a 3Dl, abstract art form.

These are but a few of her beautiful creations. I would love one of her pieces of my own one day...

“Gold is the abstraction of color.” - Olga de Amaral

Tap it

While I'm on the subject of details...tap fittings are another of those important features that sometimes get overlooked or not effectively integrated into an interior.  There are just so many out there that there is really no excuse...except perhaps your budget. But, budget permitting...here are a few of my current faves!

Love the clean lines and brass finish of "Purist" from Kohler

There are sooo many things to love about "Henry" from Waterworks

Lovely bronze details on the "Vir Stil" range, designed by Laura Kirar, from Kallista

And I love the brass/bronze industrial luxe range of "R.W. Atlas", designed by Roman & Williams, from Waterworks

Love handles

I do love a good piece of hardware. There have been times, while working on a large project, when I've thought if I have to specify another hinge or handle I will die, but I do find it immensely satisfying finding the right hardware for a project. A great design is all in the details, and if you find something that works with your concept its a great moment.  Door handles particularly. Many people might not give them a lot of thought, but they are often the very first object that a person will see and feel in the space you're designing, and if you get it right, it makes all the difference.

I'm still wrapped up in my love affair with brass (and bronze)....and so these little beauties caught my eye. I particularly love the combination with dark wood and the edginess they'd bring to a space. They're the kind of love handles I don't mind having ;)

 

Joseph Giles

 

Tanna Hardware

Nanz Co.

Gordon Watson

 DLV Designs

This lovely New York loft is another that's been percolating in the back of my mind of late. I love the colours...I wouldn't mind doing something along these lines with the industrial space we are currently living in (although I WISH our ceilings were that high!). Designed by legendary Sydney based firm Burley Katon Halliday for an Aussie expat in NYC.

Funnily enough, our walls are a similar colour to this (although perhaps more of a mushroom), and our sofa is very similar to this...

This apartment was published in both Elle Decor and Vogue Living a few years ago, so I think these pics are a mix from both.

Rees Roberts

Its funny how you can kinda like a space on first viewing, but its then filed away somewhere in your subconscious, and after it has time to percolate, upon a second viewing just looks crazy amazing? Well this townhouse in NYC by Rees Roberts is one of those places. For me anyway. I love the dramatic colours in the dining room (and how great are those upholstered Prouvé dining chairs?), and the contrast of the light ethereal colours in the living space. So beautiful. I'm also kinda digging that pink tiger pattern on those footstools. The colours in that room come together so well I'm finding it rather inspiring.

Gresham's

If proof were needed that Hong Kong is well and truly on the art, antique and design map, then Gresham's would be it. Gresham's is Hong Kong's only mid-market auction house - a welcome addition, or alternative, to Sotheby's and Christie's.

Gresham's was founded by long-time Hong Kong resident, Steve Freeman, (you may recognise his name from his profile as co-founder of the HK magazine that we all know and love) and opened its doors on June 22 this year.

“In recent years, Hong Kong has become the world's third centre of arts and antiques—after New York and London—attracting thousands of collectors every year. As a part of that scene, Gresham's aims to offer the best quality arts and antiques at prices that are affordable to a wider audience,” says founder Steve Freeman.

Categories sold at Gresham’s include contemporary art, western and Asian furniture, ceramics, Asian art, Chinese painting, mid-century and modern design, fine silver, watches and jewellery, carpets, maps, prints, posters and much more. Gresham’s is scheduled to hold Saturday afternoon auctions at least three times a month. Each auction aims to showcase 200+ lots with pre-auction website listings and public viewings available. With two successful auctions already under their belt, the third - scheduled for tomorrow - will focus on Arts of China and Asia.

Doors will open this Saturday 12 noon, with the auction commencing at 3pm at Gresham’s lovely 6,000 ft2 saleroom in Ap Lei Chau.

I have my eye on these lovely silver Chinese miniature teapots. Super cute.

Gresham’s is open for consignments and bidders, and provides free and confidential valuations.