A Touch of Brass

There was a time in the not so distant past, that I associated all things brass with an antiquated 80's aesthetic (complete with oppressive wood paneling and floral sofas).

However, over the past few years, not only has brass enjoyed a sort of renaissance, but I have also made a complete u-turn and fallen head over heels for the warm metal - particularly the brushed variety.

Brass accents have the ability to warm up even the most arctic rooms, and stand out against rich dark shades. What more could one ask for?

Source: interiorsbystudiom.com via Michelle Jennings Wiebe on Pinterest

There is something so grown up and sophisticated about the brass staircase above, and I just couldn't imagine it making the same impact if it were, for example, made of stainless steel.

Here are more of my favourite rooms, touched by brass.

Source: goldandgray.blogspot.com via Caribbean on Pinterest

  

Eclectic Bedroom design by Dc Metro Interior Designer Lauren Liess Interiors

Eclectic Bathroom design by New York Architect Ken Levenson Architect P.C.

Source: deringhall.com via Lou on Pinterest

Contemporary Bathroom design by San Francisco Interior Designer Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs

Contemporary Dining Room design by San Francisco Interior Designer Niche Interiors

Eclectic Kitchen design by Other Metro Architect elegueller arquitetos

Contemporary Living Room design by San Francisco Interior Designer Cheryl Burke Interior Design

Pssst...there will be no post next week as I'm off on a weekend jolly to Copenhagen - but do follow me on instagram @designgratis

Modern Style

I have had the kind of weekend where every single minute is devoted to something or another.

I have brought work home from the office, resulting in dreams about retail space planning (scintillating), and a hand which seems to be permanently stuck in the "pencil holding" position. On the other hand, I have also partaken in a slow indulgent lunch which involved a sushi buffet and unlimited champagne...my idea of heaven.

With that said, I will leave you with eye candy from The Library - a light, bright, inspiration filled boutique hotel in Koh Samui. Remember when you're done to pick your jaw up off the floor.

Yeah, that's a red pool.

More here.

Making a Statement in the Bedroom

Much like an "it" handbag or perfect pair of heels to an outfit, the bed can make all the difference to a bedroom and is the simplest way to create a focal point.

Here are my top 3 picks for statement beds.

-   Four-Poster   -

via Design Stiles

via La Dolce Vita

via Katiedid

via Raft Furniture

via Design Heaven

Sculptural and commanding, the posts draw the eye up... but probably not the best idea if your room is on the smaller side. If you want four poster drama without the commitment, the faux four poster (last photo above) could an good option.

-   Upholstered with Nail Head Trim   -

via Decorpad

via La Dolce Vita

via Splendid Sass

via Decor Arts Now

via 6th Street Design School

The nail head detailing creates a tailored aesthetic, and makes for a great DIY project. Go the whole hog and build the headboard from scratch, or simply just add nail head trimming to an existing headboard.

-   Tufted   -

via Nuevo Estilo

via Simply Seductive

via La Dolce Vita

 

Credit Unknown

via Dust Jacket Attic

I'm sure I've mentioned before my obsession with all things button tufted - it is the absolute bees knees in my book. Classic yet trendy, I would pair this bed with simple white bedding. Brass touches and a printed cushions for the win.