Scandinavia

We are headed on a Scandinavian adventure and I couldn't be more excited.

Scandinavian design was, in many ways, my introduction into the world of interiors and decoration. The minimalist, functional and affordable design movement that emerged out of 1950s Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden isn't only Ikea, but countless iconic furniture shapes and pieces.  The style that was created more than sixty years ago retains a modernist appeal and continues to be in high demand.

Arne Jacobsen's Egg Chair

Ole Wanscher, Arm chair, 1958

Finn Juhl, Chieftan chair, 1949 

Nanna Ditzel, Egg, 1959

I can't wait to delve in deeper into the nuances in the Danish, Norwegian and Swedish sensibilities and the fashion and culture.  Not to mention a seat at Noma's table!

But first, here is a taste of the amazing landscape.  We will be riding steep trains and taking overnight ferries, and a highlight, sailing through the fjords.

On Gardening

Landscape designer Piet Oudolf. Via Gardenista

I've never been much of a gardener.

In fact, I gave myself the moniker 'black thumb' years ago.

And yet, I feel a season change, if you will.

The  Silent Garden by Piet Ouldolf.  Via Gardenista

Now I am living in a house with a garden and a patio and a yard and the outdoor areas are lovely.  They are truly extensions of the home.  What is happening outside is relevant to interiors as it is framed by windows and doors.  The light changes, the colors change and it all can be magical.

Via Habitually Chic

It is entirely frustrating that I can imagine an interior, yet envisioning the various shapes, heights, colors and textures as applied outside eludes me.

Via Gardenista

Olive trees at sundown from our trip to Napa & Sonoma last fall. Via my iPhone.

Solage in Calistoga.  Great spot! Via my Instagram.

Great winery in Napa. Via my iPhone.

I have strong opinions about nearly everything, but when it comes to gardening, I'm less sure footed.  To not like a plant or flower feels similar to not liking a puppy or a baby.  But let's be frank: some puppies are jerks and some babies are ugly.

Raised beds at a winery near Calistoga. Via my iPhone.

Via Desire to Inspire

via Habitually Chic

My goal is to take on this meditative and natural design challenge with abandon.  After hearing Bunny Williams at the design center last month, my main take away was that one should spend more time outside and more time being.  That, at least, I can do.