Wallpaper Wars ~ Perfect Spring Wallpapers from York Wallcoverings

 1. Alessa     2. Bengali   3. Fontaine

Check out these 3 wallpapers from York Wallcoverings, perfect for incorporating spring-like energy into your space. Which one is your favourite? Is it Alessa, with it's bright colours and modern, clean lines? Nothing says Spring more like butterflies and green leaves; plus the burst of yellow and blue tones is enough to make anyone smile. I chose Bengali because of its design based in nature. It would look especially stunning as a feature wall. Finally, the more subdued Fontaine has somewhat an artisan feel. The colour is calming and soothing and it's less attention grabbing than the first two. I'd love to hear your comments and thoughts. Have a beautiful Thursday!

Inspirational Spaces ~ Modern Day Chateau de Frontenay

 Photographs by Tim Beddow

Who hasn't had the fantasy of living in a castle? And if you're anything like me, you've wondered what a modern day castle may look like. When I came across these recent images of the 16th-Century Chateau de Frontenay in the Architectural Digest archives, I got my answers. Who can resist the tree-lined driveway, the modern outdoor pool or the simple breakfast setting on the gravel-covered veranda? What I like about this space is that it kept its historical roots without loosing its modern-day appeal. My favourite room? The kitchen! I'm drooling over the navy-and-gold appliances. They have a regal flare to them, something that's definitely fit for a King. I'm also a big fan of the kitchen's neo-Gothic millwork a well as the romantic and serene energy that exudes from the entire space, especially the outdoors! What do you like about this castle and which room is your favourite?

Lamps That "Rock" ~ Incorporating Crystals Into Your Design Scheme

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I guess I'm what you call a modern-day hippie. So imagine my excitement when I came across these natural and beautiful rock crystal table lamps. Usually I wear crystals around my neck (on a chain) for protection but I've discussed using rocks - such as amethyst and malachite - for design purposes. I truly believe in the addition of these magical gems into your design scheme. Not only are they absolutely beautiful to the eye but they are also healing for the spirit. For example, calcite increases and amplifies energy. Amethyst is used for relieving stress, balancing mood swings and dispelling anger, fear or anxiety. Quartz - known as the "universal stone" - is the most recognized type of stone and comes in many forms. One of my favourites is rose quartz, which is the love stone. It's easy to create a modern flare to your rock crystal lamp by adding in a funky lampshade or an eye-catching base. My favourite is the clear Lucite base on the honeycomb coloured calcite lamp. Which lamp is your favourite?