Burmese Chic

Inspiring design doesn't have to be over the top - sometimes the most pared down spaces pack the biggest punches. La Maison Birmane boutique hotel in Myanmar is testament to this fact.

Tucked away on a small hidden street in Nyaung Shwe, Inle Lake, the hotel was a 2 hour flight (from Yangon), and a further hour of driving on tiny mountain roads, complete with terror inducing drops down the side. We arrived slightly fatigued - but upon walking through the front gate and into the open air reception, my tension melted away.

Warm shadows, cast by low hanging, fishing basket light fixtures, danced on the dark wood facade. These fixtures, (no doubt selected as a nod to the fisherman who have helped to make the lake such a popular destination) created a comforting glow, which perfectly complimented the jazzy, soft, background music. Two mojitos later, and I was sold.

We were shown to our bungalow via a pathway which parted a lush, yet well manicured garden, and as I expected, the rooms were simple, but stylish.

I suspect I will never tire of the combination of white walls, wood floors (and in this case, ceilings) and white textiles. It's simple, clean - it's effective. With it's wall to wall windows, open shower, and huge mosquito net which aided in softening the space, the bungalow was just what one pictures when daydreaming of a tropical getaway.

via La Maison Birmane

via La Maison Birmane

via La Maison Birmane

It wasn't long before I began thinking of ways to replicate this relaxed look, and thought I would share here. Below, all items can be found at Ikea, making this look both inexpensive and accessible.

The only thing missing is the ice cold mojito.

1. Storsele Rattan Armchair   2. Solig Mosquito Net   3. Leran Pendant Lamps   4. Nyvoll Bed   5. Ribba Frames   6. Areca Palm