I have a penchant for the eclectic. I think the 'unexpected' is a vital ingredient in a successfully designed interior and I adore homes that are the product of years of lovingly collected and created objects. It is the element of surprise that excites me! The juxtaposition of seemingly unmatching materials; the co-existence of objects from different eras and ethnic origins. Start with a dash of Danish mid-century, a touch of antique Victorian and a sprinkling of Industrial. Throw in a pinch of Indian, Balinese or Moroccan for some added spice and some contemporary typography, Germanic folk art and American Colonial needlepoint for whimsy. Mix in some metal, wood, leather, plastic, cane, fabric, glass, pattern, colour and texture. Stir vigorously.
Unless you've been living under a rock you've probably heard that Grace Bonney of design*sponge has recently brought out a book. Entitled Design*sponge at Home , this 390 page 'bible' of home decor contains 75 sneak peeks into the homes of creatives that are usually the artistic compilation of eclectic flea market finds, their own creative works, the odd coveted designer item and some good, old-fashioned DIY prowess.
This book is not just about the art of collection but of transformation. Some of the artists re-paint, re-upholster and re-purpose their way to domestic perfection. The resulting homes are not just aesthetically interesting, they are stories. Each abode is a narrative that describes the experiences, artistry, vision and hearts of their inhabitants.
A pioneer in the design blogosphere- Grace Bonney would have to be one of the most influential bloggers in her genre. She has been a source of inspiration, and has diligently paved the way, for bloggers (myself included) who dare to enter the now highly inundated niche. She started design*sponge in 2004 and today she has a daily readership in the tens of thousands with addicted readers popping back almost hourly to catch an update! Her 'sneak peek' and 'DIY' columns have been revolutionary, proving that you don't need to have a giant bank account to create a 'designer' home.
Design*Sponge at Home also contains some DIY projects and flower arranging tutorials to help with your own creative endeavours! To see more pics and get more info- go here. Be sure to check out the cute little video preview!
Now for the great news! Australian distributors Hardie Grant Books have sent me a copy to give away to one lucky Eat Drink Chic reader!! (And yes, this giveaway is open to International readers also!)
Here's what you have to do to win.
1. Leave a comment at the end of this post.
2. In the 'name' box please include your first name and the first letter of your last name
3. In the 'email' box please include a valid email address.
4. Only one entry per person please!
A winner will be randomly selected from the comments.
Competition closes on Tuesday September 13 at 9pm (Australian EST). The winner will be announced the following day!
Good luck!
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THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! THANKS TO ALL WHO ENTERED! THE WINNER IS Vanessa F. Congratulations!!
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