BRAZILIAN LOFT

 Designed by Cacau Ribeiro Interiores, this loft in Brazil invites me in with a soothing neutral color palette, warmth from raw natural woods, textures from rattan and woven baskets, and an effortless combination of bohemian, mid-century, and modern. 

I so enjoy looking at inspiring spaces such as this to be able to envision some of the ideas

IN MY OWN SPACE, IN MY OWN WAY.

For example, in lieu of a typical tv stand, I have been considering a long low shelving unit the entire length of the wall underneath the windows. Not only would it hold the tv, but could also be used as impromptu bench seating layered with pillows, storage for chopped firewood, and display for books and collected antiques. My first thought was to piece together inexpensive units from Ikea like the Besta or Kallax in order to create the appearance of one long unit. However, after seeing the below living room, I think I'll wait to spy an antique piece. Possibly even an antique church pew could do the job? 

My sectional sofa is a fitting size for the living room, but quite large for the size of the round coffee table that currently pairs with it. I like the idea of pairing another smaller table (or two) of varying heights with it to increase the scale and allow all of those sitting to have a table in range. 

And, do you spy the fantastic wall sconce of what looks to be a mans head blowing a bubble?!

The last thing I would want to do is install more curtains after just removing so many heavy drapes before painting - the view of the lake is so amazing with an unobstructed view! But, the living room does get a lot of bright sunlight, particularly in the morning. So, what a great idea it would be to make  an accordion free-standing screen out of rattan or cane that could be moved into place when needed.

I'm obsessed with having low bean-bag type seating in my main basement area in front of the fire for lounging similar to the striped triangle version below - more to come on that later! 

How amazing is the leather hanging chair in the background?! Perfect for sipping coffee and reading a book on the porch!

 

This kitchen with eat-in dining room has so much to love. I'll certainly be searching for the source of the circular ceramic modern pendant lights - such a fun display all grouped together in a line! The long wood peg rack is also perfect for not only display, but having handy, beautiful kitchen utensils.

Not sure I have enough room to dedicate an entire corner of my home for potting. But...I do have an attached screened in shed, which would make a great potting shed. 

While Minnesota's climate is a lot different than where I used to live in the South, I still get inspired by the lush feel of tropical plants grouped together, maybe best achieved here inside vs out.

discovered via Yellow Trace, design by Cacau Ribeiro Interiores, photos taken by Felipe Araujo

KYAL AND KARA

  I could move right into every room of this renovation by designers Kyal and Kara.  

IT HAS THE SAME CASUAL VIBE AS THIS HOUSE I ADORE, WHICH MAKES SENSE SINCE BOTH HAIL FROM AUSTRALIA.

The moroccan tile flooring in the entry sets the tone for the homes neutral color scheme accented with pops of pastel.  And, the trio of fabric and wire lights above remind me of Studio Koushi lamps.

 

The open concept living, dining, and kitchen space seamlessly flows by the use of bleached woods and stone.  The accent wall behind the fireplace is made even more amazing by a window that looks to the greenery outside.  And, a wall length bench allows for extra seating and chopped wood to be stored underneath.  

You know I love white square tile and Scandinavian'esque cabinets, but this kitchen takes that look to another level.

 

And, a separate butler's pantry to boot.

The master bedroom is the only room that injects a few more masculine elements (I'm not objecting!) with some army green and black.

 

A beautiful curved archway leads to a closet.  And, further down to a bathroom.  Blush stone covers most of the walls, including a walk-in shower with skylights above.

 

 Another injection of moroccan tile blesses the laundry room floor, paired with sleek white cabinets and shiny grey tile.

The family room (or rumpus room as they call it) has a spiral staircase and loft accessed by a pull-down ladder.  The subtle "surf lodge" vibe is fun for a hang out space, such as this.

 

A detached studio space has a loft-like feel, but maintains privacy with a curtains to pull across an arched doorway leading to the bedroom.  Conversely, a sliding wall opens the living space up to the outside patio to make one large space.  Some of my favorite details are the serpentine concrete patio bench, chevron tile floor, unique lights, and wall hung shelf with rod in the bedroom, just the right size for creating the following days outfit.

 

 

Kyal and Kara provide sources for almost everything in each of the renovations shown, which is such a plus!  One of my favorite pieces that I had to click through to where I could purchase, is this petal dome pendant shown in the living area of the studio above.  It's made in Indonesia from woven cotton leaves.