Snug as a Bug

The new fire is in, and I've been working hard over the week to give the snug a freshen up and a new feel. 

I painted the walls a similar colour to the kitchen, but with more dark yellow undertones. This gives the room a warmer, cosier feel and helps to tie in the gold tones of the sofa. 

By the side of the fire we have a tin basket which holds cones and corks; they make ideal fire lighters, and look pretty sitting on the hearth.

I've still got the bookcase to dress and were going to move furniture around, but it's been so warm and cosy in the last few days.

I will update you with more photos once the new sofas are in. I can't wait.

Ally

xxx

When the Grass is Jewelled

Once again the Great British Summer has past us by.
Autumn and Winter are my favourite seasons of all, long nights, wrapping up warm and long walks that turn your toes to ice, no matter how many pairs of socks you wear.

When I think of Winter I conjure up memories of snuggling up next to the crackling fire with the wind howling outside. I savour the moment I step outside.  The stark contrast between the deep, rich smells of the burning wood  and the crisp, sharp wind as it takes my breath away.

I know that it is still only October but I have started making some hanging hearts for the Winter season and as such, have taken some inspiration from the recent weather.
I'm matching dark, heavy grey fabrics with and silver detailing, to embody this difference between the cold outdoors and the warmth and security of home.  The silver beads will pick up the twinkling lights from the Christmas tree.

 I have also taken inspiration from Scandinavia. Cream fabric paired with traditional red cross stitch patterns.

I'd love to hear what Winter means to you. Do you have any Christmas decorations that have any special meanings to you?

Ally
xxx

Relight my Fire

When we moved into our house we were greeted by this horrific art deco fireplace. Since we've been living here we've been dying to rip it out and replace it with a stove.

Well the time has come...

I took the pleasure in ripping the fireplace out myself

As I'm typing the men are putting the final pieces of the flue in, and with the abrupt change in the weather, to say I'm looking forward to lighting a fire is an understatement.

The installation wasn't quite as straight forward as we were expecting as the previous owners decided to remove the chimney to make more wardrobe space in the bedroom above!

Whilst I have the opportunity I'm going to give the room a freshen up; anew lick of paint; rearrange the furniture and possibly rip the bookcase out. However the end result remains to be seen...

Ally

xxx

Right up my Street

Zara. H&M. Jaeger. Urban Outfitters. The British high street is one of the best places to pick up fashion bargains. We're not just talking about clothes anymore, many high street chains have started dabbling in the world of home accessories. From curtains and candles, to throws and table cloths. Everything except the kitchen sink.
The stores follow the trends much in the same way as they do in the fashion world, and most importantly they don't cost an arm and a leg.

These are some of my favourite pieces, available now.

H&M

Urban Outfitters

Zara

Do you like that fashion chains have ventured into the world of homewear, or do you think that they should stick to what they're good at?

Ally

xxx