Bally Poster

I just purchased this Bally poster online. I am loving pink and yellow!

LOVE #2

On the topic of dress - I LOVE this Matthew Williamson dress that Australian Model Miranda Kerr wore to the New York Victoria Secrets Store for the launch of a new lingerie line. I love the mix of pattern and colour - stunning!

LOVE

I love this coral coloured slip dress by Camilla & Marc via Net-a-Porter. I can feel summer coming on...

Henry Clarke

Henry Clarke Savoir-Faire December 1957 via vogue.artgroup.com

Henry Clarke Bar Du Soleil July 1961 via vogue.artgroup.com

This is Glamorous posted about Henry Clarke today. I LOVE his work and have a quite a few of his images saved on file. Last year for my birthday Sal & Anna had the above print (Bar Du Soleil) framed for me as a gift. It is so beautiful and hangs above my bed. Simple, casual elegance..

eBay - Hollywood Regency Lamps

I think these Hollywood Regency style lamp bases are beautiful! They come from Palm Springs, California. It is a shame the seller does not ship to Australia. This eBay auction finishes in 20 minutes and they have had no bids on them - still at US $9.99!! I think they would look gorgeous with a dirty aqua linen drum shade on them. Follow this link...

Mismatched Curtains

Image via Domino Magazine

I love the idea of mismatched curtains. I would love to do this in a lounge room but I wonder whether it would start to frustrate me? Great concept if you can't decide what colour or pattern, just do one fabric on either side! Not one for the perfectionists out there...

Thank Heavens for Friends

Image via Domino http://www.dominomag.com/

I have had a very less than average day today and I could think of nothing better than relaxing with my closest friends. I do not know what I would do without them. How beautiful does the string of beads look hung over the back of the chairs?

What a Steal

What a steal! This gorgeous wrought iron chair upholstered in Florence Broadhursts circles and squares sold for a mere $35.00 AU on ebay! I had been watching it for a while and forgot about it as the auction ended so late at night! I am sure another one will come up again. X

I LOVE BIRTHDAYS!!!

Thank you to Sally & Anna for the beautiful birthday gifts!!! Anna gave me this beautiful antique brass chair that she had recovered in my favourite fabric - the David Hicks geometric! I loved this chair the moment it walked in the door and I couldn't believe it when Anna gave it to me. Sal gave me the Vogue Living 'Houses, Gardens, People' book which I have wanted for a long time. When I have my own home one day it will have top priority on my coffee table! I know I will cherish these gifts forever. Thank you!!! xxx

Passion

It has been a very long time since my last post. I have now been at Black + Spiro for over 1 year and I have learnt so many invaluable things in that time. I have found that my love for special things has grown. My passion for design in all areas has grown. My knowledge in interior design has expanded. I am much more passionate about colour, fabric, pattern, antiques and history as well as life in general. We have such a great team at Black + Spiro. Anna, Sally, myself and Mel! I also plan to blog more often about things I am passionate about and loving. This weekend is a long weekend in Brisbane, yipee! I am going to 'Sarabah' - my parents farm house in the Gold Coast Hinterland for a few nights to relax and unwind. I will be back Tuesday!

SHE.... by KOBI YAMADA

She... book by Kobi Yamada

she...designed a life she loved gift card

The She... book and gift cards have inspired me greatly this week. The book is filled with wonderful quotes to celebrate yourself and all of the special women in your life. A fantastic gift for your mother, sister or girlfriends this Valentine's Day. I thinking of buying one for each of my 3 sisters and my mum. You can purchase them via Booktopia or Compendium Incorporated x

1950's Rattan Tea Pot

How amazing is this 1950's Japanese Rattan Tea Pot?! I bought it for my best friend for her birthday - and I REALLY do not want to part with it. I love it so much. The tea pot also comes with 4 matching japanese tea cups. I hope she is one happy girl!

Love at First Sight

I am on the hunt for a new pair of sunglasses - and saw these new Roberto Cavalli sunglasses over the weekend and fell in love. They are so beautiful! I am going to be posting on my beach essentials this week as I am taking a short break to attend a wedding in Airlie Beach this weekend.

Antique Mother of Pearl Chest

I am back blogging after a long long break. Anna will be proud! Look at this beautiful antique mother of pearl chest of drawers! I found this on topbananaantiques.com - what an amazing piece.

Nama Rococo Wallpaper

Sally found this fabulous Nama Rococo wallpaper via Kate Spade's website. Whilst I probably wouldn't have this in my own home, it is so unique and definetly worth blogging about. The particular print above is part of their couture and limited edition collection. Below is a small exert from their 'about us' page on their website.

"NAMA ROCOCO believes wallpaper can be musical. Sound is form. Tone is colour. We take flowing, lively shapes and knock them curiously off kilter. Colours, luminous and rich, are made to dance across the paper and into the living space".

Candles

This is my first post in a while. I have been very busy at work, and finding inspiring images is a challenge for me. I have been loving candles lately. We have a Designers Guild 'waterleaf' candle at work which is divine. It's scent is amazing.

Louise Tidd - An Inspiration

Today we said good bye to a treasured painting by Australian artist Louise Tidd, that we had in the shop here at Black & Spiro. She is a fantastic artist and incredibly inspiring. Above are some of my favourite paintings. Visit her website: www.louisetidd.com/

Paris Je T'aime

Last night I went and saw this fantastic French film, Paris, Je T'aime (Paris, I love you) with Lachlan. The movie contains 18 short films (with 18 different directors) that evolve around the central theme of love. Each story is set in a Parisian neighbourhood (some beautiful scenes as you could imagine). It was a lovely film and I thoroughly recommend it.

Venice in Black & White

Venice Bridge photographed by Connie Begg

Venice Canal photographed by Cyndi Schick

I LOVE VENICE! I think it is the most beautiful place I have ever been, and by far the most romantic! Not only does it look good in black & white, but in colour as well. The beautiful buildings painted in bright blues, yellows and reds make for a great colour combination.

Kelly Wearstler

Black & White plates on a wall at the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica designed by Kelly Wearstler. I would LOVE to have a courtyard in my home like this. Kelly Wearstler never fails to impress!

Black & White @ Black & Spiro

Above are some of the beautiful black & white items available at Black & Spiro. The couture cushions come in a variety of mismatched Black & White fabrics. The chest of drawers, wallpaper and black vintage candle sticks above are also available through Black & Spiro. They come in a bone inlay or mother of pearl inlay. Email me or Anna for details.

Black & White @ Sass and Bide

I am so in love with this dress. Available through Australia's Sass and Bide.
If I could have absolutely anything right now, I think this would be it. The design of the neckline is so striking!

Quotable Quotes

These are quotes complimented by black and white. I have a magnet and a book from the collection. I particularly love the first quote. They are so inspirational and make an excellent gift. There are cards, mugs, canvases, journals and much more. Have a look www.bobangles.com

Special Moments

I LOVE these two images, both taken in France! They are so romantic and it makes me want to be them! Isn't it beautiful when you do have these 'moments' in life? If only we had photographers following us around to capture them. My friend Maz actually has the bottom one (Le Baiser de l'Hotel de Ville, Paris 1950)framed in her room, and it looks beautiful! I would love to frame one and have it in my home one day...I just have my bedroom at the moment and there is not enough wall space! Enjoy x

My Obsession - Black & White Photographs

Cecilia Hammond 1976

Photographer: Terence Donovan

allposters.com

As you may know, I am absolutely in love with Black and White photographs. They are my all time favourite thing, and I just can't get enough of them!! The photograph above is of Cecilia Hammond. Stunning jewelry as well. This week I will be posting lots and lots of Black and White photographs! So if black and white is your thing... Check each day for a black and white boost!

Beautiful colours

I love this collection of chocolates. The colours are definetely me. I love clusters of little things in different colours and shapes and sizes. There is something magical about it.

Little Treasures

These three images are beautiful. Little treasures like these are so special, and make a house a home. It's an interesting idea to drape your jewelerry over a decorative peace or maybe even a tea cup. Might try it when i get home.

My Dream Bedroom

This is my dream bedroom, decorated by Kelly Wearstler. Sorry about the poor quality. I had to scan it and it is over two pages, but I'm sure like me, you can still see the beauty of this bedroom. I love the mirrored bed side tables and wardrobe, I love the white bed spread, I love the big white bedside lamps, I love the carpet, the chairs, even the pink flowers!! This room is so luxurious! And one day, I hope I have one just like it!

White

I wanted to post some more white rooms but our scanner isn't working so it will have to wait till tomorrow. I think white is my favourite colour. It is so pure and clean, pity it can get so dirty!

Moo Business Minicards

What a great way to market your business! It gives a quick insight into who you are and what sort of things you do, fantastic for the design field. You could have images of jobs you have done, or favourite pictures...I found these images of moo cards on flickr. Have a look at moo....

Happy Easter

Happy Easter to everyone! Above is one of our silly bunnies, made from vintage fabrics! Aren't they adorable? I am going up to the North Coast for the easter weekend and cannot wait! I hope everyone enjoys their break.

Vintage Find

Yesterday Anna took me to some Antique stores around Brisbane. Can you believe that? I get to do that as part of my job?! I could have spent all day amongst the vintage treasures. One piece that caught my eye was this vintage screen. The geometric print reminds me of something Kelly Wearslter would use.

Relax, have a cup of tea

I love tea. Always have, always will. A cup of tea soothes the soul and warms the heart. My obsession with tea began back when I was about 6, and my Dad always asked me to make him a tea in the morning. I was a terrible at it, and after a few sips of his tea here and there I too became a tea lover. A cup of tea can take you to another place. I love to ponder my thoughts with a cup of tea in one hand.

A beautiful place to have tea is at Tlicious at Southbank. They have over 150 varieties of tea, caramel being my absolute favourite. The Tea Centre in the Brisbane Arcade also has some beautiful tea cups and pots, with over 185 tea varieties, mostly imported.

Liberty New Collection

Manzi Stripe

LOVE Liberty's new collection 'MANZI'. The houndstooth is to die for, as is the stripe. Would love to see the stripe on a sofa. As always the picture doesn't do the fabric justice. So if you can, get your hands on it!!

Josh & Louis

You must have a look at this new collection: Josh & Louis. The 'Salon Chairs' above come in 5 different colours, and in my opinion, are beautiful. They are very unusual, and would make a fantastic focal point for a room. Have a look at their website: http://www.joshandlouis.com

Kelly Wearslter

When I started here at Black & Spiro, one of the first things Anna told me about was her favourite interior designer, Kelly Wearstler. She gave me one of her most treasured books, Kelly Wearslter's 'Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style' to have a read of over the weekend. I was amazed by her work, quite suprised actually. I had never seen work like hers before. So sleek, so Hollywood, so out there. I have come to love and appreciate her work already, noticing the little detail in her work more so each week as I learn new things.

It is so unique, so different and I now see why she is such an inspiration to Anna. I didn't even realise I was a fan of Wearstler's work until I found a picture in her book, one which my Mum and I loveee and had already saved and put it in her 'collection' of pictures at home. . It is of the courtyard in the Viceroy Hotel, Santa Monica. I will post a picture of it later this week.

Wearslter's ability to combine perfection and imperfection in the same room is amazing. She also mixes different patterns, colour, shape and texture to create masterpieces.

The quotes in her book are also very inspirational.

"Inside a room I want to be
moved - I want to feel the
drama."

"Instead of settling for less than perfect, I create
something special."

"There is always possibility for
sophisticated spontaneity and the elegance of the unexpected."

Beautiful Words

Thought I would share with you some beautiful words:

"Dance like nobody's watching; love like you've never been hurt. Sing like nobody's listening; live like it's heaven on earth." - Mark Twain

I love this quote. It makes me want to enjoy life, be me, and forget my worries. Sometimes it isn't that simple though!

Inspiration - David Bromley

I love David Bromley. Sally introduced him to me today. I cannot express how much his work inspires me. I want to paint and paint and paint. I haven't felt this inspired in a long while, and it is a fantastic feeling. It makes me want to discover new things, and express my emotions through painting. It makes me feel motivated. I want to go and buy a million blank canvasses....

"I find it interesting to write about my work... I weave through my thoughts and feelings searching for words to parallel the visual. As a presenter of images I express myself through paint and I don't always have a verbal explanation for my outpourings on canvas – perhaps this is why there is some ambiguity in the narrative in my paintings. I don't always like to reveal a definite outcome to the scenarios in my works and prefer the viewer to make their own decision... We all attach different meanings to things based upon our own experiences, opinions and desires. I don't want to eliminate other interesting possibilities..... The sea has its own personality, the horizon itself has romance. You look at it and wonder what lies beyond."

-David Bromley May 1997. Source: http://www.aar.com.au/art/davidbromley.htm

My Work Area

Cole & Son Hexagon wallpaper in ;

Chivasso - Viscose Linen in Tango (fabric for notice board);

Zepel Fabrics, Juliet in Magneta (my chair fabric - this photo does not do this fabric justice, it is much more pink).

When I began at Black & Spiro, Anna suggested to me that my desk area needed a revamp! I could not believe it! She suggested I have some wallpaper, recover my chair and notice board!! I am SO lucky! So I thought I would share with you the very out there wallpaper we chose, the fabric for my chair and the colour of my notice board. And once finished I will post a before and after shot. It is a very interesting mix, but I think it will work. Thank you Black & Spiro!!

Emma Hack

Some more work from body artist, Emma Hack. Amazing. Very inspiring. Can you believe she painted those Broadhurst patterns? Visit www.emmahack.com.au .....

Paris - Odeon - Courtyard

This courtyard looks just beautiful. It is situated in Paris. Would love to have a cup of tea in my hand, wander around and think. Bliss.

Florence Broadhurst

Unfolding Florence: The Many Lives of Florence Broadhurst

Florence Broadhurst's lifestyle range

Florence Broadhurst Handbag

Image from Signature Prints

Inspiring artwork by renowned body artist, Emma Hack
Image from Signature Prints

Florence Broadhurst wallet & doorstop
Image from Signature Prints

A few days ago I did a post on the impact and influence that design fields such as fashion and art have on interior design. The impact of Florence Broadhurst's creations on fashion and art have been widespread, from clothing to doorstops!

I think that Emma Hack's work is amazing! The way that she has transformed Florence's pattern into a piece of art is so inspiring. Another piece of art which resemble's Florence's work is the cover of her movie, Unfolding Florence: The Many Lives of Florence Broadhurst. The colours and patterns used resemble her work so well. Love the pink wallet also! Her creations are so versatile!

What I would love right now...

I would just love to be in this beautiful rose bath right now. Wouldn't it be a lovely way to begin another week? What a difference the sweet pinks and reds make to a white bath. If only we didn't have water restrictions........

More Vintage Vogue

Finishing Touches by Norman Parkinsons, August 1967

Taj Mahal by Norman Parkinson, November 1956

The London Look by Henry Clarke, September 1961

London The Last Resort by Eugene Vernier, July 1961

I thought I would share with you some more of my favourite Vintage Vogue photographs. And I was so pleased to find the original Taj Mahal photograph above by Norman Parkinson in a Vogue magazine from 1956, for sale over the internet! I may have to make a few allowances so that I can purchase it, fingers crossed!!

Fashion & Design

Alice McCall ad campaign for their website: http://www.alicemccall.com/
-love the detailed design and colour in the hair

Florence Broadhurst designs (source: http://www.signatureprints.com.au/)


Dresses by Oscar de la Renta: www.netaporter.com

Anna mentioned to me last week that I should open my mind to the influence and impact that other design fields such as fashion and visual art have on interior design. The above design by Oscar de la Renta reflect one of the current looks at Black & Spiro: black, yellow and white. The yellow dress is very similar to the new curtains. The black dress also has some lace detail, similar to Dominique Kieffer's new range. Perhaps a new trend?

Beautiful interiors - Tom Scheerer

Tom Scheerer - San Remo Apartment

Tom Scheerer - Brooklyn Townhouse

I love these rooms by American designer Tom Scheerer. Anna introduced me to him and after browsing his website came across these stunning rooms. I LOVE The Brooklyn Townhouse. I love the variety of different pieces and the simplicity. Some colour would liven it up. The cluster of pictures also look fantastic, however I would like to see small vintage mirrors and photographs amongst them. I would love to do something similar in my home one day. The dining room of the San Remo Apartment is also stunning. Again very simple, but has maximum impact. Also adore the mirror. Mirrors have the ability to transform any room, and look fantastic as a focal point. I love the way the reflect another part of the room.

Vintage Vogue

I am so so so in love with vintage vogue covers and photographs, the one above in particular. They inspire me so much. I would absolutely love to have each and every one in my bedroom, unfortunately space is a huge issue and I may be called somewhat obsessive. The black and white photograph above is by Henry Clarke and is titled 'Playclothes of the Western World' May 1962. I have a passion for black and white photographs. I think they are amazing. The mood of a black and white photograph is much more passionate than that of colour. You feel connected to the image. You can access vogue covers and photographs at the Vogue Cover Archive, they even have covers from 90 years ago! You can search for covers by year, model or photographer, which ever takes your fancy...

Click on the link to access their website: http://www.vogue.co.uk/CoverArchive/

I will be posting many more of my favourite covers soon....

Valentine's Day Display @ Black and Spiro

Yesterday, Anna and I created two Valentine's displays for the windows of the shop at Black & Spiro. It is so pretty! The love heart shaped cushions arrived yesterday and we hung them from above with some ribbon. It looks so sweet. I hope it is enjoyed by many passers by.

Enjoy.

Stunning Surprise

A chair that Anna ordered in October last year for the shop just arrived today!!!! It is absolutely stunning! Very Kelly Wearstler. I won't post a picture of it on my site, however I am sure Anna will surprise everyone sometime today so keep checking her blog http://www.absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com/

I can assure you that you will not be disappointed!!

National Compliment Day

Today is National Compliment Day, so I thought I would share with you some thoughts on the girls at Black & Spiro. I would also like to thank them for welcoming me into their lives and the world of interior design.


Anna is an incredibly talented designer who is so passionate about her work. She is very inspiring to watch when working through different tasks each day. She is also very unique in her personality and style. I love her work!

Sally is a wonderful organiser and mother to everyone at work. I have found her to be so welcoming and helpful and she has helped me make my work area so beautiful. Sally is also a lovely person to share thoughts with.

Amanda is a very approachable, fun and vibrant designer. She is always there to lend a helping hand. Oh and did I mention she is gorgeous!

I am very lucky to work with such lovely girls! Thank you all!

Saturday @ Black & Spiro

Each Saturday I work in the shop at Black and Spiro. It gives me an opportunity to speak with customers about fabrics, wallpaper and items in the shop on my own. I learn a lot on Saturdays from speaking with customers (some who are often more familiar with fabrics than myself!) I also sold three items on Saturday... An antique wooden table, one of Anna's stunning coutour cushions and an antique bucket!! Very Exciting!

Dominique Kieffer

Yesterday, Black & Spiro were introduced to the new Dominique Kieffer range. These fabrics are all just delicious! In particular I love the black lace, just stunning. I could imagine it in a little french boutique hotel, scattered amongst some fresh whites. This fabric exudes a sensual yet sophisiticated vibe. It also comes in a white lace which is also gorgeous.

My First Entry

My First Entry

Hello….

My name is Avril and I have just started as a junior assistant at Black & Spiro, a beautiful interior designers located in New Farm, Brisbane. Anna, the wonderful and incredibly talented owner and head designer at Black & Spiro encouraged me to start this blog. On my blog, ‘Jane d’Avril’, I hope to share with you my thoughts and inspirations, beautiful things I come across and my journey at Black & Spiro.

A little note on my blog name;

My name is Avril Jane. Avril in English means the month of April, so to make things a little more interesting I translated my name to French, thus, Jane d’Avril. Apprenti decorateur d’interieur also means apprentice decorator of interiors. I love France. It is such a beautiful place and I would LOVE to live there some day. Same goes for Italy (especially Venice – this place amazes me!) but I won’t get started on that.

Some interesting information on my name;

Avril Jane (1868 – 1943) was a famous French can-can dancer. She began her career as a dancer at the Moulin Rouge in 1889. There she always dressed in red, and was the only performer who was allowed to wear coloured underwear – the others had to make do with white! It is said that “her dancing reflected a refined, sensitive nature and she somehow managed to project a seductive, imaginative and exotic nature as well”. She was reborn in the 2001 film Moulin Rouge. Also in that same year the noted French biographer, François Caradec, published Jane Avril: Au Moulin Rouge Avec Toulouse-Lautre. (The image above is of Jane Avril, painted by Toulouse-Lautrec).

I can't wait to share with you my journey at Black & Spiro..........