A Cabin in the Woods

With Memorial Day having just passed and most people we know having spent the weekend out of the city, it has really made me feel like I need a break. I love Manhattan with all it's hustle and bustle and "city that never sleeps feel" however sometimes it just gets a little overwhelming.  I was perusing Trendland - on of my favorite places for inspiration - and I came across this amazing modern cabin by renowned Seattle-based Olson Kundig Architects. They have a wonderful collection of wood, steel and glass cabins (definitely worth a look) and this particular one is located on the Gulf Islands in British Columbia. I love how simple, clean and perfectly planned it is, nestled in it's surroundings.  This has really inspired me and made me crave a little break in the woods. Any ideas for a weekend getaway?

* How amazing is this outdoor shower? Should be added to post here

Photos Courtesy of Olson Kindig Architect

Quintessentially New York

Okay, so I know that it has been a REALLY long time since I did a Quintessential post, and it's not that we haven't eaten at some wonderful places, but non have really felt like they were post-worthy in terms of design and deliciousness!  Well, Friday night a friend took me out to Boqueria and voila, Quintessential worthy! Inspired by the tapas restaurants of Barcelona, the interior is simple, modern and comfortable with natural materials on the walls, filament bulbs hanging above tables, and aromas that make ones mouth water.  The food was amazing (go with lots of people so you can order lots of things!) and the wine list was nice and extensive with something for everyone.  This is a place where we will definitely go back to, and should be added to anyones NYC list.

Boqueria

Simplicity in Paris

I love simple interior palettes - easy colours, natural materials and a minimal selection of each.  The Paris based firm Robert Gervais Studio seems to tick all those boxes.  The apartment in Place des Ternes is simple, modern and to me stunning. Not too much to say about it...I think that photos speak more than words on this one. Enjoy!

Photos courtesy of Robert Gervais Studio & Trendland

Greetings from Belize

Well I think that it's only appropriate that my last post was on outdoor showers seeing as we find ourselves returning from 5 days in paradise.  Yup, hubby and I needed some time away from the craziness that is Manhattan and our jobs and so we escaped to Placencia, Belize, a small peninsula off the main land, for some much needed sun and scuba.  We had a truly amazing time and it is such a beautiful country with lots of natural wonder and untouched beauty.  We went in hopes of seeing and diving with whale sharks as it is the season, however you cannot predict nature, and it seems that it was not our time - although we did get to see plenty of other sharks and stunning underwater paradises.  Unfortunately there have not been any whale shark sightings yet this season which not only isn't great for the tourist industry down there, but isn't great for the whale sharks either.  Oh well, guess this will give us a reason to go back! Can't wait!!