Soft & Elegant

Many of you will know that my preferred colour palette is anything but monochrome! But if I was to choose a soft and subtle palette, this apartment is definitely the way I'd go - a base of crisp white, stoney greys, and light wood, with furnishings in dusky pinks and blue-greys. There'd have to be lashings of texture like copper, marble, sheepskin, and plants - delicious!

This is one of the Crisp Street Apartments designed by the incredible Melbourne design firm, Mim Design. They specialise in the design of sophisticated and refined interiors. Set in the heart of Hampton, Melbourne, Crisp Street Apartments offer premium residential living, and the team at Mim Design have created a look which is absolutely beautiful and timeless - don't you agree?!

photography by Derek Swalwell

Vic's Valentines Picks

Valentines Day is looming, and although the Mr and I don't spend a lot of money on February 14th, I always make him acknowledge it, and it never hurts to have a wish list! I usually try and find a cool (opposite of corny) card, and when I saw these ones by Emily McDowell I laughed out loud. Unfortunately for me, and anyone outside of the US, Emily has been inundated with orders, and if you ordered today it's unlikely to get here in time. But keep her cards in mind for the future.

Of course some of my favourite cards are sold right here in the Cush & Nooks shop. These two below would be awesome V Day cards.

These swans, also from Cush & Nooks, are so beautiful. You can buy them separately, but they look so good together - don't you love how their graceful necks create a love heart?! (I have just sold the last prints but will get more in stock, so send me an email if you're interested).

For me Valentines Day is all about the little things - a flower from the garden, a cup of tea in bed. Kikki K have a gorgeous range called the Neon Hearts Collection. I'd be very happy if my cup of tea was brought to me in their Big Heart Mug.

Speaking of little things, here are a couple of small tokens of love that would most definitely be well received (by moi!). Shaun and Angela of Seventy Six Design are truly gifted. The rose gold and white gold frangipani inspired ring on the left, set with diamonds has my name all over it.

Just in case that doesn't happen, I've always loved this Wildfox Sparkle Heart Sweatshirt.

I hope this time next week you'll all been showered with affection by your loved one. And if you're single, listen to Emily - it's so much better than dating some idiot! ;)

Tracey Tawhiao and Autumn Salon

Happy Waitangi Day to all my Kiwi readers. Just a quick post today with a distinct and beautiful New Zealand flavour. Tracey Tawhiao is an incredible artist who I discovered while visiting a favourite haunt of mine - FG Smith Eatery.

Her art featuring amazing Maori designs painted on brown paper hangs on the wall in the cafe, and you can also find it on the windows of Aroha & Friends next door. If you live, or are visiting Hawke's Bay make sure you pop in and check it out - 9a/9b Ossain Street, Ahuriri, Napier.

And if you are a Bay chick, have you got your Autumn Salon tickets yet? A night just for the girls held at Smiths Eatery, there will be food, music, art, performance and free stuff! Stylist, Sarah Bell, with photographer and hair stylist, Pamela Tinning, will be showing us this winter's fashion; Textile designer, Nikki Gabriel, will showcase her new winter collection of knitwear; and Tracey Tawahiao will present her poetry and a new wearable collaboration with Melaina Newport of Aroha & Friends.

Tickets are limited to 60, I've got mine, get in quick to get yours. It will be a fabulous evening.