I do spend a fair amount of time browsing the internet looking at decor blogs, pinterest pages, instagram feeds and tumblr. However, nothing beats coming home with the latest interior decorating magazine, pouring myself a cup of coffee or, more likely a glass of wine, and settling in for a good read. I tend to mostly buy the local South African mags because they are affordable and because they are as good as any global publications imho. Each one offers something different to their readers. The Conde Nast House and Garden always features quite high end beautiful homes, while the Garden and Home houses tend to be more within the reach of the (wo)man in the street. like me (not to be confused with street woman which is a whole other thing entirely!). Then there is the House and Leisure mag where many of the homes are too contemporary for my taste, but there are a few exceptions and I do enjoy the leisure section. The other one I buy from time to time is the Home mag which is for great for DIY and fixer upper enthusiasts. I used to be one of those but have become too lazy busy. I do enjoy seeing how clever people can be, especially on a limited budget.
Two homes featured recently really appealed to me. The first from House and Garden mag...
Based in Joburg, this home is owned by antique dealer, Ashley Judge and her husband, The first thing one notices is the absence of colour. The walls throughout are white and the floors are pale, which is the perfect backdrop for the dark and quite imposing antique pieces that are used abundantly. In another setting they might seem austere, but here they blend perfectly with the inviting decor.
The antique dining table below has a beautiful worn and weathered patina that is offset by elegant slip covered chairs.
The main bedroom is simply furnished, but inviting with layered textures and interesting details.
The wine cellar is full of character.
It's hard to believe you are in the middle of a city with this outlook.
The second home is featured in the SA Garden and Home mag. It is based in Cape Town and owned by Charlie Hayward.
The home is full of beautiful period features, like the pressed ceilings, that were kept intact during the renovation. The wooden floors were painted white to lighten the interior, and the doors and windows, a pale grey.
The living room, dining room and kitchen all flow into one another, making for easy living.
The living room, dining room and kitchen all flow into one another, making for easy living.
The kitchen was designed by the owner and the use of plaster and cement gives it a rustic French feel. A wood burning stove makes it a cosy place to be in the cold winter months.
The dining room is elegant and spacious enough to entertain lots of friends and family.
In winter, a fire is lit and in summer the doors to the beautiful courtyard are opened to let in the sound of trickling water from the fountain and the scent of lavender.
Finally, the beautiful bedroom is straight out of a romantic French movie with its ornate bed, crystal chandelier and linen clad chaise longue.
So, why not go a treat yourself to a new decor mag - you won't regret it!
Till next time
Sharon x
