automatism

Weekend

2012-02-03T00:04:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend! Hope it's a good one. Depending on the weather, we're thinking of checking out the ice sculptures at Winterlude and then warming up afterwards with an afternoon in the kitchen making lasagne. How about you?

(photo from the portfolio of interior designer brad ford)

Collector's Paradise

2012-02-03T00:03:00.000-05:00

In an old cottage in Skåne, Sweden, the Sondergaard Kjeldsen family live happily surrounded with an extraordinarily eclectic collection — everything from ballet shoes, old school posters, vintage clothing and Chinese tomb pottery exist harmoniously with mid century modern furniture, while a background of cheerful colour ties it all together. I would love to visit their house for tea — it would be wonderful to spend an hour or so just wandering around looking at it all. More here on Residence.

Photo Sara Svenningrud

Smile

2012-02-03T00:02:00.000-05:00

Wow. Inspired by Pixar's animated hit film Up, last spring National Geographic Channel created a real-life version with a team of scientists, engineers, and two world-class balloon pilots, successfully launching a 16' X 16' house 18' tall with 300 8' colored weather balloons from a private airfield east of Los Angeles. More photos here, too.

(via my modern metropolis)

Houzz Ideabook

2012-02-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

My latest ideabook for Houzz is up! This month's theme is ever versatile, eco-friendly and beautiful bamboo — have a look here.

(kina natural pendant light by david trubridge available from horne)

Sweetness and Light

2012-02-02T01:16:00.000-05:00

Pretty still life of flowers for a Thursday. Love the warm late afternoon light used here — so lovely.

(photo by idha lindhag)

Buffet

2012-02-02T01:15:00.000-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

Adore Magazine
The latest issue of Adore is out — make some tea (or other soothing beverage) and settle down for a lovely read.

The 60 Year Job: The Queen
More Intelligent Life has an interesting series on people who have held jobs for more than 60 years — this week they look at the formidable schedule of Queen Elizabeth, who at age 85 is as busy as she was 20 years ago.

Artists in the World
Great website of links featuring artists working in their studios. Love this.

The 10 Most Iconic Accessories of Famous Authors
Check out the idiosyncrasies of such authors as Vladimir Nabokov (butterfly net), William Faulkner (pipe) and Edith Wharton (puppies!).

Seven Short Films About Obsolete Occupations
Brain Pickings has a great round up of documentaries about occupations that are slowly dying out — follow the link to see bittersweet stories of a man with the world's largest vinyl record collection, a film projectionist, a shoe polisher, a glass sign artist, a sword maker, a tap dancer and a letterpress printer (though I'd argue about the last one, as there's been a real renaissance of this craft in the last few years).

25 Things I Learned From Opening a Bookstore
As a longtime book person (and onetime bookstore employee) I loved reading this charming list by a used bookstore owner.

The Worst Acting Snubs in Oscars History
With the Academy Awards happening later this month, here's an intriguing list of some of the most surprising upsets in the history of the Oscars.

Parmesan Baked Eggs
Eggs, fresh herbs, butter, cream and parmesan — what's not to love about this recipe? Perfect for a special Sunday brunch. Via Pinch of Yum.

(photograph by melanie acevedo)

Smitten

2012-02-02T00:58:00.004-05:00

I'm smitten with this little black Bea dress from Morrison — I love the idea of an architectural approach to warm weather clothing.

Moments of Beauty

2012-02-01T00:04:00.001-05:00

Love the delicate tones in this gorgeous photo by Jeff Hahn for Tatler Hong Kong — it has the atmosphere of an old Dutch painting. More from the same shoot here.

(via fashion gone rogue)

Serene in the South

2012-02-01T00:03:00.002-05:00

Today we'll take a break from the chilly February weather and imagine we're in the south of France, strolling through green meadows shaded by lime and horse chestnut trees towards this cabin of eucalyptus wood and cedar shingles, all surrounded by a spectacular scented garden of jasmine, roses and hydrangeas designed by landscape architect Fernando Caruncho. A former pheasant farm, it's now the country retreat of decorator Isabel López-Quesada decorator.

Inside, walls of corrugated iron recovered from a nearby old house adds texture and an industrial chic, while a mix of vintage and classic modern pieces furnish the rooms throughout. Relaxed and lovely, it's the ideal retreat from the city — and the winter cold, too. More here from Elle Decor Spain.

Meet the Sponsor

2012-02-01T00:02:00.000-05:00

I'm very happy to introduce you to a new sponsor on automatism — Michelle of the pretty etsy shop The Art of Michelle. Michelle's delicately beautiful original watercolour paintings, limited edition prints and mixed media pieces would make perfect gifts for a baby shower, new home, birthday and other special occasions. See more loveliness at her shop here.

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-31T00:04:00.000-05:00

Old colour prints. So beautiful and endlessly enjoyable — either in vintage books or happily displayed on the wall in frames.

(lovely photo by ryan benyi)

Atelier: Leigh Beisch

2012-01-31T00:03:00.000-05:00

Today I'm admiring the delicately atmospheric photography of Leigh Beisch, whose almost abstract work resembles fleeting memories of landscapes from dreams. Beautiful. See more of her lovely images (and purchase prints) here. Via the beholder.

Browse: est magazine

2012-01-31T00:02:00.000-05:00

Describing itself as 'global living with an Australian twist,' est magazine is a stunning modern interiors e-mag — and one that's definitely going to be a fave read for me. Make yourself some tea and settle in for a lovely read.

Monday

2012-01-30T00:04:00.000-05:00

A delicate still life to start your Monday on a sweet note. Have a good one.

(photo by nikole herriott on flickr)

Work of Art

2012-01-30T00:03:00.000-05:00

Jewelry designer Stine A. Johansen has decorated her family's apartment in a pretty mix of flea market finds, design classics and beautiful modern art — plus her own jewelry, making for space of relaxed elegance. Love. More here from Interiørmagasinet.

(photography by birgitta wolfgang drejer/sisters agency)

Weekend

2012-01-27T00:04:00.002-05:00

Happy weekend! Hope it's a lovely one. We'll be attending a birthday get together for a very charming 4 year old — should be fun. How about you? What are you up to?

(photo by magnus anesund)

Monochromatic Elegance

2012-01-27T00:03:00.000-05:00

Swedish stylist and photographer Daniella Witte turns her camera lens on to her own lovely home for Sköna hem, and I'm so glad she did. Absolutely love the elegant restraint of her monochromatic palette, with its great industrial touches of concrete, brick and metal. Lovely. More here on Sköna hem.

(photography by daniella witte)

Smile

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

Futuristic technology from 1957 — the Panoramic 111 TV from French company Téléavia. I love this, but I'd also keep expecting it to go skittering across the room when my back was turned, too ...

(via iain claridge)

Sweetness and Light

2012-01-26T00:04:00.000-05:00

A burst of citrus colour, to add sunshine to a grey January day.

(photography by victoria pearson)

Buffet

2012-01-26T00:03:00.000-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

Charles Dickens's World of Interiors
Charles Dickens was fascinated with interior decoration and threw himself into the choosing of furniture, paint colours and wallpaper designs. Check out this slideshow of his first home at 48 Doughty Street in London (now the Charles Dickens Museum), his holiday home in Broadstairs, Kent, and Gad's Hill Place, Kent, where he died in 1870.

Imagined Lives Out of False Portraits
Recently the National Portrait Gallery in London posed an intriguing question: what do you do with all the discredited paintings of princes, aristocrats, writers, once it's been shown that art historians got it wrong? A thought provoking essay from the TLS.

David Lynch Loves Coffee
A lot, actually. Check out this great little essay by Lynch explaining just why he loves it so much.

Malcolm Gladwell on Spaghetti Sauce
Author of iconic books such as Blink and The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell brings his inquiring mind to bear on spaghetti sauce, and as always it's fascinating.

Top 10 Books of the Night
Author Ian Marchant picks ten books that examine the mysterious world that emerges when the sun goes down.

Miniature Collapsible Paper Cities
Amsterdam-based artist Ingrid Siliakus creates extraordinary and highly intricate pop-up miniature works of architecture out of paper, inspired by artist M.C. Escher. Amazing.

Learn 40 Languages for Free
The always wonderful Open Culture has put together links to free courses in 40 different languages — download audio lessons to your computer or mp3 player and you’re good to go. Super handy if you're planning on traveling — or if you're tired of reading movie subtitles!

Coconut Red Lentil Soup
Not only a fantastic combination of flavours, but easy to make, too. This is definitely going to become a favourite during the winter months. Via 101 Cookbooks (thanks to Carly for the link).

(lovely photo by petrina tinslay)

Smitten

2012-01-26T00:02:00.000-05:00

I'm utterly smitten with this lovely bag by Phillip Lim from the corner, but sadly it seems to be sold out. Fingers crossed.

Moments of Beauty

2012-01-25T00:04:00.000-05:00

Love this — so wild and beautiful.

(model kirsi pyrhonen photographed in outer mongolia by tim walker for british vogue, december 2011. via iain claridge)

Impulsively Lovely

2012-01-25T00:03:00.001-05:00

This stunning Norwegian home was an impulse buy for the couple who now live there, but far from regretting their decision they've fallen even more for their lovely home. And seeing just how beautiful it is, it's easy to see why. More here on Bo Bedre.

(photography by ragnar hartvig)

Sponsor Spotlight: Valentine's Day Edition

2012-01-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Celebrate love everlasting with the romantic You & Me Bangle, handmade by designer Flick Pope, part of the stunning collection of jewelry available from Lobo Luxe. Inspired by vintage charm bracelets, the bangle features a heart silhouette with the words You & Me, an acorn-styled fresh water pearl, a circle with the word Romance (never ending), and a heart shaped charm. This would be a beautiful gift for a very special Valentine indeed.

Tiny Prints, part of the greeting and announcement card family that includes the lovely Wedding Paper Divas, has a huge selection of fresh and pretty Valentine's Day card designs that you can customize, allowing you to create a personal card that will make your valentine feel extra special. And while we're on the topic of love, brides-to-be might want to check out the Wedding Paper Divas series of clever save the date magnets as well as their gorgeous range of wedding invitations, too!

Show your favorite just how special they are with this charming You Are My Favorite mini print from FifiDuVie! Its 5" x 7" size is perfect for brightening up an office, cubicle or corner of your living space. Printed on archival quality paper, this sweet print is available in red, black, silver or hot pink non-toxic acrylic inks as well as the peacock blue shown here. A happy affirmation of love every day.

Make your Valentine's Day a memorable one with beautiful antique jewelry from Frances and Fils — and enjoy a little bonus when you do, too! Purchase a piece before February 28 2012, use code VAL15 at checkout and receive 15% off your order. A perfect time to indulge in something unique and lovely, like this Heart Locket from the early 1900s, which has been paired with a 1960s brass chain and vintage brass key tag for a modern look.

This Valentine's Day, why not give your valentine a flower box instead of a box of flowers? With a Small Equals Keepsake Box, the flowers will never fade — and it would be perfect as the wrapping for a small special gift such as handmade chocolates or jewelry. And when it's empty, you can keep your love letters in it! Choose from several varieties of flower designs here.

Give your significant other something a little different this year for Valentine's Day — a lovely art print from Bates Mercantile Co., such as the fun I Love You Eye Chart. Not only would this look great in a simple frame, but it's a charming daily reminder of being loved — a pretty awesome gift indeed.

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-24T00:04:00.001-05:00

The deep pleasure we derive from art — whether it's a painting, photograph, story, sculpture, film, dance or other form — is a constant source of happiness and renewal, no matter what life may throw at us.

(lovely photo by mikkel rahr mortensen, with styling by gitte kjaer)

Atelier: Mayer

2012-01-24T00:03:00.001-05:00

Today I'm admiring the gorgeous photography and styling of the Peace collection for the Berlin-based clothing company Mayer — just stunning. Love how it looks like vintage 19th century photos (and the clothes are pretty amazing, too).

Monday

2012-01-23T00:04:00.000-05:00

A quiet corner to start your Monday gently. Have a good one.

(photo from the portfolio of designer brad ford, via creamy life by way of sfgirlbybay)

Natural Beauty

2012-01-23T00:03:00.000-05:00

The warm and inviting Neika, Tasmania home of artist Mandy Renard, her husband Matt Holden and their sons Hamish and Jes is a fantastic example of sustainable living. Constructed from scratch, some of the house timber was harvested from the property while the rest was salvaged from a nearby cottage demolition. Working parties of friends and neighbours helped the couple build their house, and the result is not only low cost and eco-friendly, but with inspired design touches, too. The island bench in the kitchen is an old sideboard that Mandy’s grandfather restored, topped with a glass door from a Hobart bank. The earthen living room floor is sealed with a linseed oil and beeswax mix, while the sofa was a second hand store find, re-upholstered by a friend. And the fire hose window sign in Jes’s bedroom was recycled from a primary school in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley. Love how imagination and friendships resulted in such a welcoming family home. More here on homelife.

(photography by sharyn cairns for the january 2012 issue of country style)

Weekend

2012-01-20T00:04:00.001-05:00

Happy weekend! Hope it's a good one. Andrew has had a very long and busy week so we'll be taking it easy here — Scrabble is definitely on the horizon. How about you? What are you up to?

(photo from elle decoration uk via the north elevation)

Fifties Classic

2012-01-20T00:03:00.001-05:00

Built in 1950, over the years the period features of this Malmo home gradually disappeared behind drywall and paneling. When interior designer Nina Gerthel and her husband Martin Karyds moved in, they discovered wonderful period details while renovating their home, such as the built-in bookcase in the living area that now sets off the whole room. Opting to keep the walls white has allowed Nina and Martin flexibility in how they furnish their home and allows their vintage furniture and colourful accessories to stand out — such as the carpet in front of the bookcase, designed by Nina. Restored to its original beauty, their home is now a lovely relaxed mix of old and new. More here on Sköna Hem.

(photography by caroline tengen)

Smile

2012-01-20T00:02:00.000-05:00

The Mondrian Sandwich. See more art-inspired sandwiches over at Low-Commitment Projects, too.

(via swiss miss)

Sweetness and Light

2012-01-19T00:04:00.001-05:00

Love this floating walnut headboard by Marsia Holzer — the shape and the grain of the wood is just gorgeous. Via Remodelista.

(photo by jason lindberg)

Buffet

2012-01-19T00:03:00.000-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

A Glimpse of Famous Correspondence
Review of five chronicles of famous correspondence that shed new light on the hearts and minds of cultural icons such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Ernest Hemingway, John Steinbeck and Maurice Sendak.

Eve Arnold's Most Memorable Shots
Slide show of some of the defining images from the career of photographer Eve Arnold, who passed away last week at the age of 99. She was the first female member of the Magnum agency and was best known for her sensitive images of Marilyn Monroe.

Spoonflower
This sounds interesting — design and produce your own fabric via the Spoonflower site. It’s affordable, no minimum order is required and it uses eco-friendly fabrics and printing processes, too. I'm definitely checking this out. Via Swiss Miss.

Freud, Interrupted
The painter Lucian Freud died last year at 88 but painted right to the very end. With two upcoming major Freud retrospectives in mind, writer David Kamp talks to some of the models and family members who sat for him.

Why Black is Addictive
Rebecca Willis takes a look at why she wears black so much — and how and why black became such a fashion staple.

A Night at the Bookstore
Check out The Joy of Books, a charming stop motion short film by Canadian husband and wife team Sean and Lisa Ohlenkamp, depicting the contents of the Toronto bookstore Type coming alive after dark. Just lovely.

One Piece at a Time
A project by Jonathan Brand, One Piece at a Time is a full size paper 3D version of a 1969 Ford Mustang that he used to own but sold in order to buy a diamond engagement ring. Reconstructed based on his memory and a few photographs, its attention to detail is extraordinary.

Cauliflower Steaks With Harissa
A brilliant way of serving the humble cauliflower, by Kimberley of The Year In Food — and gorgeous photos, too.

(lovely photo by mo + mo living)

Smitten

2012-01-19T00:02:00.000-05:00

I'm rather smitten with this Diamond Cube Object from Haus Interior — I think it would look perfect perched on a stack of books.

A Free Internet

2012-01-18T02:15:00.004-05:00

I'll be off Twitter for 24 hours, in support of the strike against SOPA/PIPA — check out this video to find out why. Automatism will be updated as usual just after midnight on Thursday.

(photo by ellen silverman)

Moments of Beauty

2012-01-18T00:04:00.000-05:00

A sumptuous Venetian setting today — love the colours and the architectural details.

(photo of anna de rijk by sofia sanchez and mauro mongiello for tar magazine #6 — more from the same editorial here, though please note that some images are NSFW. via fashion gone rogue).

Garage to Loft

2012-01-18T00:03:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that this light-filled loft space in the heart of Camden, London, was once a garage, then a pair of dank, interconnected bedsits spread across two floors. Measuring just 85 square feet, owner Darren Isaacs and Knott Architects have made use of every inch of space available, tucking cupboards into the eaves, suspending pots and pans from beams and hiding away the appliances behind sleek white cabinetry (along with the TV and kitchenware). But there's also interesting aesthetic touches besides the practical, such as a staircase made from a single ribbon of cold, rolled steel, left to develop a patina of rust before it was sealed, with logs for the fire stored neatly underneath. A calf-skin LCW chair by Charles and Ray Eames adds pattern and curves, books add warmth and a personal touch to the loft, and a typographical tramlines poster, found by Isaacs in his native Australia, adds graphic punch to the white walls. Now a bright and relaxed home, it's a great lesson in finding the potential in even the most unpromising space. More info here on The Guardian.

(photography by sophia evans)

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-17T00:04:00.000-05:00

A warm soft blanket to wrap up in on a cold snowy day. Bliss.

(lovely photo by francine zaslow)

Atelier: Yumiko Arimoto

2012-01-17T00:03:00.000-05:00

Today I'm admiring the exquisite embroidered creations of Yumiko Arimoto, whose ethereal and dreamlike work is just beyond lovely. Gorgeous.

(via the wonderful abundance)

Browse: Reverie Magazine

2012-01-17T00:02:00.001-05:00

I've just been enjoying a lovely browse through the debut issue of Reverie magazine, a gorgeous new bridal e-mag based in the U.K. Make some tea and settle down for a beautiful read.

Monday

2012-01-16T00:04:00.000-05:00

A delicate still life, to start your Monday softly. Have a good one.

(lovely photo by daniella witte)

A Mill Transformed

2012-01-16T00:03:00.000-05:00

Exuberant and playful, the Marseilles loft home and workshop of Lebanese-born stylist, set designer and artist Mitri Hourani is a temple to recycling. The house itself was formerly a mill, and it's now filled with a fascinating collection, the result of Mitri's philosophy of retrieving objects and then re-inventing them, giving them a second life. The resulting ever-evolving interior is a brilliant reflection of Mitri's vibrant imagination. More (in French) here on Marie Claire Maison.

(photography by christophe dugied)

Design Canada

2012-01-16T00:02:00.001-05:00

The striking design of the Alouette Lamp by Miles Keller is based on Canada's first satellite — the Alouette, which launched back in 1962 and made Canada the 3rd nation into space. The lamp is available here.

(via moco loco)

Weekend

2012-01-13T00:04:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend! Hope it's a good one. We'll be getting a round of blizzards and snow over the next couple of days, so I think we'll be doing some serious nesting. How about you? What are you up to?

(lovely photo by ellen silverman)

Smile

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

After yesterday's sideways blizzard weather, I am seriously considering getting one of these.

(plastic sneeuwstormbeschermer / face protection from snowstorms from nationaal archief on flickr via in the waking hours)

Sweetness and Light

2012-01-12T00:04:00.002-05:00

Love this elegant chair by designer Nika Zupanc — the floral detail is such a wonderful contrast to its sleek modern shape.

(via els 50)

Buffet

2012-01-12T00:03:00.001-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

Charles and Ray Eames: The Architect and the Painter
You can now watch the full documentary film about these two extraordinary people online through American Masters on PBS. Looking forward to this one.

The Language of Stamps
You have to see this lovely and wonderfully illustrated post on the blog Poemas del río Wang about the now-vanished delicate art of stamp placement. Depending on how you placed a stamp on an envelope, it told an informed recipient you sent a kiss, you were thinking of them — or (sadly) that you were not free. Fascinating — and something it would be charming to revive for Valentine's Day, I think.

Vintage Views of London
Slide show of gritty and beautiful black and white photos of London, from the 1950s to mid 2000. Via things magazine.

450 Free Online Movies
Open Culture has assembled a great list of links to free online films arranged according to genre — check out Comedy & Drama; Film Noir, Horror & Hitchcock; Westerns & John Wayne; Silent Films; Documentaries, and Animation. Lots of really interesting stuff.

Charles Dickens's Inner Child
A lovely, meditative essay on Dickens by Christopher Hitchens — his last one for Vanity Fair before his untimely passing last month.

Corner Portraits by Irving Penn
Love this striking black and white portrait series by Irving Penn — the stark, angled backdrops (a bit reminiscent of the Expressionist sets in the German silent film The Cabinet of Doctor Caligari) really make the personalities of the subjects stand out. Included here are Marlene Dietrich, Salvador Dali, Georgia O'Keefe, Igor Stravinsky and the Duchess of Windsor among others — though it's the last photo of the Ballet Society that really strikes my eye (that amazing dancer!).

Dana Tanamachi
Watch designer/typographer Dana Tanamachi create her beautiful hand lettered chalk signage in these time lapse videos. Lovely work. Via BOOOOOOOM!

Date Recipes
Guardian cookery writer Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall serves up some inspired sweet and savoury recipes for dates. There's one particularly delicious-sounding one, Spiced Chicken With Dates, that I'm definitely going to try out.

(lovely photo by fryd + design)

Smitten

2012-01-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

I'm rather smitten with this playful pom pom bag by hansel from basel — it would definitely add a dash of fun to running errands.

Moments of Beauty

2012-01-11T00:04:00.001-05:00

This extraordinary McQueen creation (and its lovely photo) reminds me of Jean Cocteau's Surrealist version of Beauty and the Beast. Love.

(photo of dioni tabbers wearing alexander mcqueen by luciana val & franco musso for russian vogue, 12/06. via mode ave. paris)

Literary Inspiration

2012-01-11T00:03:00.000-05:00

Inspired by Danish writer Karen Blixen's stories of Africa, the beautiful home of artist Cicely Westh, her husband Thomas Jervin and their three children features subdued earth tones mixed with exotic travel finds, antiques and Cicely's own paintings, too. See more of this lovely home here in Femina magazine.

(photography by kira brandt rasmussen)

advertise on automatism

2012-01-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Thinking of becoming an automatism sponsor? There's a couple of ad spots available for February — with rates that are perfect for small creative businesses who want to get the word out for Valentine's Day! Find out more here.

(gorgeous photo by nicolas mathéus)

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-10T00:04:00.000-05:00

Homemade soup when you're under the weather. Bliss.

(lovely photo by anna williams)

Atelier: Madame Yevonde

2012-01-10T00:03:00.000-05:00

Mrs Richard Hart-Davis as Ariel

Baroness Gagern as Europa

Lady Bridgett Poulett as Arethusa

Lady Anne Rhys as the goddess Flora

Mrs Anthony Eden as Clio, the Muse of History

Nadine, Countess of Shrewsbury as Ariadne

The Honorable Mrs Bryan Guinness as Venus

Mrs Edward Mayer as Medusa

Today I'm admiring this extraordinary 1935 series by English photographer Yevonde Cumbers Middleton (1893 - 1975). Known as Madame Yevonde, she was a pioneer of the use of colour in portrait photography. These particular portraits were inspired by a party held that same year, and feature society women dressed as mythological beings. See more portraits from the series here on Retronaut.

Browse: Pure Green

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

Normally I read the always lovely Pure Green magazine online, but I was so curious to see their new print version that I succumbed — and it's every bit as wonderful as I thought it would be. Printed on 100% post consumer recycled stock with vegetable based ink, it's as lovely to hold as it is to read. Subscriptions are available here for either single copies or for an entire year (4 issues in total). Highly recommended!

Monday

2012-01-09T00:04:00.000-05:00

A still life composed of delicate shades of blue, to start your Monday gently. Have a good one.

(lovely photo by hallie burton)

A Rustic Retreat

2012-01-09T00:03:00.002-05:00

Set in the forested countryside outside Barcelona, this relaxed and airy cabin may look casual, but it's been carefully designed to live in sympathy with its natural surroundings. Josep Puig i Auguet Architects was commissioned to build a house that the client described as 'organic' in its materials. The result is a cabin made entirely of pine wood from sustainable forests in Finland, solar panels that provide renewable energy for the low consumption household appliances, and the white paint that stains the interior of the house is a mineral-based pigment from Germany that reacts with light and whitens the surface naturally — a citrus oil was applied before it was painted, so it wasn't necessary to strip the wood. Cross ventilation throughout means that air conditioning has been dispensed with, while two porches — one north and one west, are used according to the time of year. Outside, the organic garden and orchard provide both produce for the table and a delight for the senses, too. For the owner, though, the true luxury of this lovely retreat is the wide open space and huge windows — a complete contrast to the cramped Barcelona apartment he has happily left behind. More here (in Spanish) at Woman magazine.

Weekend

2012-01-06T00:04:00.001-05:00

Happy weekend! Hope it's a lovely one. The weather here is going to be dreary (snow mixed with freezing rain) so I think we'll be staying indoors mostly, reading the books we got for Christmas, watching a movie or two and maybe cooking up a batch of chili to keep us warm. How about you?

(lovely photo by hallie burton)

Vintage Lovely

2012-01-06T00:03:00.002-05:00

Located in Dalarna, Sweden, the beautiful 1930s functionalist home of Susanne Gillerås, her husband and the youngest of their four children is a treasure trove of auction bargains and industrial finds. Until recently Susanne ran the Norrgården shop, which offered vintage furniture plus crafts from local silversmiths and potters. Sourcing pieces for the shop led to interesting expeditions to industrial auctions (where she and her business partner often found themselves the only women there) as well as to the usual house auctions for furniture. With her business partner now living in Colorado, the shop closed several months ago as it was no longer practical to run, but Susanne's interest in objects with a patina of history lives happily on in her stunning home. Love. More here from Residence.

(photography by magdalena björnsdotter)

Smile

2012-01-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Here's to an exciting 2012. Hope it's great.

('sleigh leaving ski jump' vintage photo from nationaal archief via in the waking hours by way of design observer)

Sweetness and Light

2012-01-05T00:04:00.001-05:00

Delicate flowers to brighten a Thursday in January.

(lovely photo by lesley unruh)

Buffet

2012-01-05T00:03:00.001-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

Make Things With Your Hands
A Q&A with Sir Terence Conran, designer, restaurateur and retailer who over the last five decades has significantly influenced how Britain lives and eats. Beginning in 1964, his Habitat chain of stores helped to introduce simple, well-designed housewares at affordable prices. Decades later, his restaurants did much to introduce the country to fine and stylish cuisine.

Photo Remakes of Famous Art
Amazingly clever photographic versions of famous paintings, part of the "Remake" project by BOOOOOOOM! Wonderful Via kottke.

Dot-dash-diss: The Gentleman Hacker's 1903 Lulz
A century ago, one of the world’s first hackers used Morse code insults to disrupt a public demo of Marconi's wireless telegraph. Fascinating bit of technological history.

Bon Appétit's Food Lover's Cleanse
Feeling sluggish after overindulging over the holidays? Kick off the new year right with Bon Appétit's two week healthy eating challenge, which focuses on balanced and nutritious eating rather than crash dieting.

Mourir Auprès de Toi (To Die By Your Side)
Check out this lovely stop motion animation short, a collaborative work between director Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich and Where The Wild Things Are), and handbag designer Olympia Le-Tan, whose intricately embroidered clutch-bags were the inspiration for this film. Set on a shelf in famed Parisian bookstore Shakespeare and Company, it's the star-crossed love story of a skeleton and his flame-haired amour — all with a jaunty French sensibility that's both cheeky and charming. Via brainpickings.

Flying Robots Build a Tower Near Paris
This is rather extraordinary — the future is closer than we think.

How to Find Creative Inspiration
The Guardian recently asked artists from various disciplines (music, dance, playwright, architecture, art, actor, director and others) how they make their ideas a reality.

Orange Flower Pavlova with Coconut Cream, Pistachio and Meyer Lemon
I don't know if I'd ever make this, but it's such a poetic-sounding recipe that I couldn't resist sharing it with you — and the gorgeous photos just add to the loveliness, too. Via Roost.

(photo by lesley unruh)

Smitten

2012-01-05T00:01:00.003-05:00

I'm smitten with this vintage postcard design for an iPhone 4 or 4S case — so pretty and practical. Available here from On Your Case on etsy.

smitten is a new regular series of posts on automatism featuring lovely online finds — hope you enjoy it.

Moments of Beauty

2012-01-04T00:04:00.000-05:00

Love this stunning photo of Björk — it captures both her beauty and her fiercely independent vision.

(photo by inez van lamsweerde & vinoodh matadin for another magazine, a/w10 issue)

A Sunny Retreat

2012-01-04T00:03:00.001-05:00

Looking at these photos of the wonderful Inès de la Fressange's home in the south of France makes the Canadian cold snap outside seem far away. So relaxed and lovely. More here, too. Via ElleDecor.

(photography by marie-pierre morel)

Simple Pleasures

2012-01-03T00:04:00.000-05:00

Making resolutions for the new year. The major one for me is to finish a personal project started two years ago, which promises to take up a good part of 2012 for me. How about you? Have you made any new year resolutions?

(photo by idha lindhag)

Atelier: Brett Amory

2012-01-03T00:03:00.001-05:00

Today I'm admiring the subtle and atmospheric work of Brett Amory — just gorgeous. See (and purchase) prints of his paintings here on Poster Cabaret.

Browse: By Fryd

2012-01-03T00:02:00.000-05:00

Just discovered the utterly gorgeous e-mag By Fryd, singlehandedly created by Norwegian designer Jeanette Lunde of Fryd + Design. Stunning photos of her beautiful home and more.

Monday

2012-01-02T00:04:00.002-05:00

This simple bunch of white turnips is a perfect reminder of how beauty can be found in the humblest objects. Hope your first Monday of 2012 is a good one.

(lovely photo by mo + mo living)

Soaring Beauty

2012-01-02T00:03:00.003-05:00

Looking at this stunning apartment from the 1800s, located in Malmo, Sweden, it's hard to believe that its soaring high ceilings and gorgeous architectural details were once hidden away in the 1970s, under a dropped ceiling of acoustic tiles and shabby particleboard. But when Nina Bergsten and her boyfriend lucked into this space after moving from Stockholm, it was all thanks to earning the liking of the old lady who lived there, who thought they were such a nice couple together. And because she trusted they appreciated and would take care of her home, they were able to obtain it for a good price — Nina says frankly that otherwise they probably couldn't have afforded it. With the old lady's approval, they removed the hideous later additions and restored the apartment to its former beauty — and the lovely results make it easy to see why she had such faith in this creative pair. More here on Residence.

(photography by marcus lawett)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.003-05:00

It's a brand new year. May your 2012 be filled with peace and happiness (and plenty of sweetness, too).

(adorable baby white tiger photo by sharon montrose available here)

New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T00:01:00.002-05:00

Wishing you a fun and lovely New Year's Eve — hope it's grand.

(photo by jennifer causey)

Weekend

2011-12-30T00:04:00.000-05:00

Happy holiday weekend! Hope it's a fun one. After a very busy last two weeks we'll be having a fairly low key New Year's Eve, but as it will be with my sweetie (and some very good French champagne) it'll be pretty much perfect. How about you?

(lovely photo by daniella witte)

A Loft-Style Chalet

2011-12-30T00:03:00.001-05:00

Located in Megève, a famous ski resort in the French Alps, this lovely chalet was completely redesigned inside while retaining its traditional Savoyard details — such as the wood shingled roof — on the outside. Love how warm and relaxed this space is — perfect for chilling out in after a day on the slopes. Details (in French) here on Marie Claire Maison.

(photography by julien oppenheim)

Smile

2011-12-30T00:02:00.000-05:00

Some of us really know how to relax.

(photo 'woman on park bench, central park, new york, 1957' by yale joel. via my ear trumpet has been struck by lightning)

Sweetness and Light

2011-12-29T00:04:00.002-05:00

Just love this beautiful 2012 art print calendar by Anek on etsy — a whole year of loveliness. Find it here.

Buffet

2011-12-29T00:03:00.000-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

How to Eat Like a King for Christmas
Slightly belated for the season, but still a fun read. Using antique technology and vintage cookbooks, food historian Ivan Day recreates Tudor and Victorian specialties like puddings and roast goose.

Meryl Streep: Force of Nature
Great Vogue interview with the brilliant Meryl Streep, with photos by Annie Leibovitz.

Goodbye Helen Frankenthaler
Sad news — the groundbreaking abstract painter Helen Frankenthaler passed away on Tuesday. So admired her and her work. Follow the link for the NYT obituary, which describes her career.

14 Of The Year's Best Ideas In Interface Design
Check out some of the most elegant interface designs from 2011, ranging from Bjork's Biophilia app to a cute tiny printer.

What's Up With Big Hair?
Writer Rebecca Willis ponders the mysteries of why hair extensions are so in demand — and why so many women feel that bigger hair is better.

The Old Problem of Writer's Block
Via artsjournal: "You close the door, boot up your laptop, open the right file and ... five minutes later catch yourself thinking about dinner. By 10 a.m., you're staring at the wall, even squinting at it between your fingertips. Is this day 50 hours long? ... Pick up an early medieval monastic text, however, and you will find extensive discussion of all the symptoms listed above, as well as a diagnosis." Fascinating that our technonologically advanced era still shares something in common with medieval monks and nuns.

50 Unexplainable Black and White Photos
A collection of vintage black and white photos that range from the amusing to the inexplicable to the frankly weird. Slightly NSFW, incidentally.

Holiday Appetizers
These delectable and inspiring recipes from Saveur would be perfect for a New Year's Eve party.

(lovely photo by kristian septimius krogh)

Handmade Holidays

2011-12-29T00:02:00.002-05:00

Decorate for your New Year's Eve party the eco-friendly way by making pretty chain garlands from the wrapping paper left over from Christmas — these ones are a little fancier than the usual, with pinked edges. More garland ideas here on Femina.

Moments of Beauty

2011-12-28T00:04:00.001-05:00

Love the delicate colours and composition of this photo — just wonderful. More here.

(photo of rebecca iannacone by aram bedrossian for cosmopolitan armenia, december 2011 issue. via fashion gone rogue)

Modern Holiday

2011-12-28T00:03:00.001-05:00

A little more holiday decor before the New Year — the lovely home of Rikke Juhl Jensen, the creative brain behind the interior design firm House Doctor. Love the light, relaxed approach to decorating she has — so fresh and pretty. More here from Bo Bedre.

Simple Pleasures

2011-12-27T00:04:00.001-05:00

Pausing to enjoy a moment of calm between the busy Christmas and New Year's Eve holidays.

(photo by frédéric vasseur)

Atelier: Betsy Walton

2011-12-27T00:03:00.000-05:00

I spotted a painting by artist Betsy Walton on a recent post by the wonderful Kate of Art Hound and was instantly smitten — just love the delicate dreamlike quality of her work. Have a look at her website here as well as a selection here on the beholder.

Browse: Design&Life

2011-12-27T00:02:00.001-05:00

Published online by Japanese design firm PH Design Consultants, the stylish Design&Life magazine covers design, lifestyle, fashion, trends and creative news from all over the world. Make yourself a cup of tea and enjoy an inspiring and creative read.

Boxing Day

2011-12-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

Here in Canada it's Boxing Day, so I'll be away from the blog today. Hope you're enjoying your own holidays — see you here tomorrow!

(photo from the portfolio of stylist lotta agaton)

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T00:04:00.003-05:00

Peace and joy to you this holiday season — have a lovely one.

xo

(lovely photo by idha lindhag)

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve! Have a lovely time getting ready (or eagerly waiting for) tomorrow.

(photo by roland persson)

Weekend

2011-12-23T00:04:00.000-05:00

Happy holiday weekend! Hope it's a magical one. We'll be enjoying a mix of family time and just the two of us, which makes it pretty much perfect, I think. How about you?

(lovely photo from elle decoration norway)

Christmas in the Country

2011-12-23T00:03:00.001-05:00

After seven years of renovation, Linn and Christian now enjoy a peaceful Christmas with their two children on their old Swiss-style farm just outside Drammen, Norway. Such a warm and pretty home. More photos here on Bolig Pluss.

(photography by sveinung bråthen)

Smile

2011-12-23T00:01:00.000-05:00

Love this clever poster by Toronto-based Moxy Creative for the hilarious cult film Shaun of the Dead — a perfect gift for a film fan. Check out other film-inspired poster designs here, too (the Ron Burgundy one is great).

Sweetness and Light

2011-12-22T01:04:00.000-05:00

A pretty seat for the holiday season.

(photo by joanna henderson)

Buffet

2011-12-22T01:03:00.001-05:00

This week's links. Enjoy.

Holiday Wine Etiquette
Lovely Joanna of A Cup of Jo offers great tips on drinking wine before you head out to parties and dinners over the holidays — all with brilliant and fun illustrations by the wonderful Gemma Correll.

The Rise and Fall of the Recipe Card
A nostalgic look at the history of the humble 3-by-5-inch index cards used for recipes — and what will be lost when they finally disappear.

The Secret Histories of Secondhand Books
The personal dedications one finds in secondhand books are often as fascinating as the text. In honour of this, Wayne Gooderham of The Guardian is starting a new series showcasing his most intriguing finds.

Occupy Big Business: The Sharing Economy's Quiet Revolution
Intriguing article from The Atlantic about how ordinary people are re-negotiating their terms with big business — they want to spend less, do more, and solve problems together. They are the foundation of the new "sharing economy."

Sweet Delight: A Brief History of the Mince Pie
The sometimes surprising history of the mince pie. "Contrary to popular myth, mince pies were never made illegal by Cromwell, though they were stigmatised by Puritans. A satire from 1656 called Christmas Day pokes fun at such priggish zealotry: "Idolatrie in crust!"

Free Christmas
A free holiday song by Johnny Marr and The Healers.

La Tartine Gourmand: Jamaica
Béatrice of the lovely La Tartine Gourmand has a long and wonderful post about her visit to Jamaica, with beautiful photos of the people, scenery and food she encountered in her culinary travels there. Her banana bread recipe reminds me of visiting Jamaica years ago as a kid, enjoying fresh baked banana bread (still the best I've ever had) every morning.

Coconut Milk Caramels
A sweet treat that would make a great holiday gift, too. Via Saveur.

(photo via spooky home)

Handmade Holidays

2011-12-22T01:01:00.000-05:00

The French craft magazine Marie Claire Idées has a nice feature on adding some personality to your holiday decorating with tiny Santas, angels, reindeer, birds and more — find it here. Many of these would be fun projects to do with little ones, too.

Moments of Beauty

2011-12-21T00:04:00.000-05:00

Otherworldly beauty for the holiday season. Love her lipstick colour! More here, too.

(photo of model codie young by satoshi saikusa, with makeup by christelle cocquet for s moda. via fashion gone rogue)

Norway Meets Paris

2011-12-21T00:03:00.000-05:00

Norwegian designer Signe may live in an apartment in Paris now, but her Nordic roots are still apparent in the lightness of touch she brings to decorating her home, where she lives with her French husband. Love how unabashedly pretty this is. More here on Bolig Pluss.

(photography by ragnar hartvig)

Sponsor Spotlight: New Year Edition

2011-12-21T00:02:00.003-05:00

Charmaine of Lobo Luxe wishes all automatism blog readers love, joy and peace for the holidays and 2012. The beautiful handcrafted Love Pendant by Yasuko Azuma, made of 10karat brushed gold highlighted with a sparkling red spinel gem, would be a lovely way of keeping that positive message close throughout the new year, too.

Tiny Prints, part of the greeting and announcement card family that includes the lovely Wedding Paper Divas, has a huge selection of fresh and pretty new year's card designs to which you can add your own photos — create a personal card and make the beginning of 2012 a warm and memorable one for family and friends!

Add some sophistication to your holiday outfit with beautiful vintage jewelry from Frances and Fils! Expertly curated by Connie of 100 Applegate, the shop features pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries, with designs ranging from Chanel to Lanvin. Start the new year off in style!

Ildiko and Flavia of Double Fox Studio have been busy in their studio for the last little while, and the result is that they already have new dolls and necklaces in the shop — with more to come in the new year, too. Shown above are two of the latest works, but be sure to visit to see more loveliness!

Izabella of FifiduVie has several exciting new items in her shop, but I was particularly charmed by her Love Notes — they're romantic and fun and would be lovely to discover tucked under a pillow or between the pages of a book. You'll find them here.

Pamela at Bates Mercantile Co. offers a great option for customers who love her bold graphic designs but aren't sure if they'll work within their home — customized versions upon request. Here you can see the original multi-colored version of her striking chevron design on the left, and one that was made to order with custom teal coloring on the right. Needless to say, the possibilities are endless!

A sweet end to the last Spotlight of 2011, as Liza of Small Equals shares an adorable photo of Stella and Saki. Awww! Liza would also like to say thanks for everything, and how much she's looking forward to a great 2012.

Thanks so much to my wonderful sponsors, and to you, lovely reader, for supporting them throughout 2011 too. Here's to a 2012 filled with peace and happiness!

Happy Hanukkah

2011-12-21T00:02:00.002-05:00

Happy Hanukkah! Hope it's a magical one.

(photo via martha stewart living)

Simple Pleasures

2011-12-20T00:04:00.000-05:00

The first snowfall.

(lovely photo by armene via love is all you need)

Atelier: Neil Brigham

2011-12-20T00:03:00.000-05:00

Today I'm admiring the beautiful and pastoral work of Neil Brigham, who works in linoleum, scratchboard and woodcut. Just stunning. See more of his portfolio here.

Browse: Matchbook Magazine

2011-12-20T00:02:00.000-05:00

The latest issue of the always enjoyable Matchbook magazine features an interview with Janie Bryant, costume designer for Mad Men. Make some tea and settle down to enjoy a happy respite from your busy day.

Monday

2011-12-19T00:04:00.000-05:00

May your Monday have a little bit of quiet time as well as the usual busy time. Have a good one.

(lovely photo by daniella witte)

Opposites Attract

2011-12-19T00:03:00.000-05:00

Stylist Nanna Lagerman recently put together a quirky series of rooms for Elle Interiör that showcase her inspired ideas on mixing old and new, affordable and splurge or big and small. Shopping info here.

(photography by idha lindhag)