Beach shack love by Jane Coslick...

I was recently introduced to a fabulous blog by the name of Design Editor. While perusing Catherines interesting and inspiring posts I came across some pictures of a beach house designed by Jane Coslick of Savannah, Georgia. I'm sure many of my Amercian blogging pals probably know her well but this was my first introduction and I was inspired!

About Jane - Jane Coslick's Designs and Restorations embraces the cottage lifestyle: open, friendly, and simple. Jane's lovingly restored homes are painted bright colors-- trimmed in crisp white, and are full of funky furnishings, many of which she designs herself. Jane blends the quirky with the quintessential and fills her homes with delights at every turn.

The image above was the one that captured my attention. I completely agree with Catherine in saying my favourite element of this kitchen is the aqua colonial screen door on the pantry- Outstanding!

I absolutely love the light, airy, vintage feel of this home with plenty of white used throughout, the chippy furniture including old shutters and doors used as bedheads, patchwork quilts and the fabulous vintage inspired prints.

The next three images below are from another beach shack also designed by Jane.

I am completely smitten with all the bright colours, textures and patterns Jane uses against the white background. These homes feel so inviting and fun! Perfect for that summer family vacation we all deserve :)

Hello my name is Anna and I am a bookaholic....

Especially when it comes to the French variety, ie: books about all that is French!

Last month I posted a long list of books on my wishlist and I wanted to share my latest additions to my beloved library.

The above book wasn't on my list but when I saw it on sale I HAD to have it. Now to be perfectly honest I'm not the worlds greatest cook nor would I ever claim to be (I'll leave that title for my mum and sisters), and I most likely will never attempt any of the complicated recipes, although they do look positively mouth watering. I fell in love with this book for the stunning photography inside and - well - haha (blush) - the blue cover and intricate spine makes this book a perfect accent to display in my provincial inspired kitchen LOL. It's truly the most beautiful recipe book I've ever seen.

Having said all that if there are any of you gourmet chefs out there looking for the challenge of perfecting some ancient authentic French recipes, this book will become your new bible :)

Another recent purchase was this exquisite book offering an extended look into ways to decorate with quirky and whimiscal flea market finds, heirlooms and general accents.

I love the first paragraph from the preface - Objects play special roles in every home; their presence creates an atmosphere and a state of mind. Objects tell the private story of an interior; they reflect the personalities and sensibilities of the people who live there. A home without objects would be a place without a soul, devoid of meaning or emotion. - So true!

This book I highly recommend to people who love collecting or creating vignettes. It's full of earthy tones and plenty of white and patina. I love it, it's the kind of book you can peruse over and over again and still find amazing sites you hadn't seen before.

Note: The cover above is the American/British version. Aussie's look out for the cover below.

Happiness is....

A French Farmhouse!

image courtesy of country french antiques.