Dollybirds Art

The use of birds in interior design and home decor will probably never grown old. They can instantly add a feeling of frivolity to a space and bring a snippet of nature inside to liven up any room. 

When I first caught sight of Dollybirds Art on Twitter, I knew straight away that I would eventually be ordering one of their prints. The instantly recognisable selection of British Isles native birds was perfect. Belfast artist Eimear Maguire captures the character and colours of her favourite birds in a way that truly demonstrates her appreciation for all things feathery. The perfect opportunity to purchase a print presented itself last week when my bird-loving mother's birthday came around. I opted for the 'Cyanistes caeruleus' also known as the Blue Tit. It arrived promptly and beautifully packaged with a lovely little note from Eimear. I love that each print comes mounted and presented in it's own upcycled frame. They really are the perfect gift. Although in all honesty, I'd quite like to 'gift' one to myself ;-)

 Which is your favourite Dollybirds print? Have you already used birds in your home decor? 

Claire x

5 / One Pic Wednesday

Source

I'm sorry, can we just take a moment to bask in the glory of this New York penthouse and it's altogether amazing style and views. 

Ah. Thank you. 

This Soho apartment, owned by Kirsten Dunst, instantly caught my eye. I was drawn to it's simple, uncomplicated look. The furniture is understated and not a single element tries to take anything away from those stunning views. I particularly love the various seating areas, the exposed brick and the enlarged black and white photo balancing against the window. I'd happily cuddle up on the sofa with a glass of red and watch the sunset over the Hudson any day. 

Pretty darn close to perfection.  

Claire x

Art Print Passion

I love love love cute art prints.  I've become quite obsessed with them.  

Here are a few that I've recently fallen for:

Hot Pink Heart // Made By Girl

Love 5 x 7 // Made By Girl

Unnamed // Ink Inc

Friends // PULDEFRANCK
These words are taken from a song by The Temper Trap called 'Sweet Disposition', which my husband and I had as one of our wedding songs.  As soon as I came across this print on Nordic Design Collective, I knew we had to have it.  Sorry for the cheese-factor.

I promise that once these prints have an actual home, on a wall, I will share a photo of them in-situ.  

Claire x

Inner Child

Today I'd like to give a little shout out to some of my top presents from Christmas 2013.  I have been a full blown adult for quite some time, but the presents thing does not wane.  I wake up on Christmas morning and yes, I cannot wait to get some present action.  This may sound pretty shallow but I do also know the true meaning of Christmas - please trust me on that one.

My husband made the big mistake* of proposing on Christmas day several years ago, so he basically scuppered any chances of ever trumping the engagement ring that he presented to me on that fine day.  However, 2013 saw me get a great haul.  

First present...a kindle!  Finally, I am the proud owner of an e-reader.  I didn't want one of the fancy ones that can do just about everything except the washing up.  (Read: being able to use it as a tablet would mean I'd sit and read blogs all day instead of actual books)  Looking forward to not having to lug around heavy books in my dainty handbag.  

Next pressie...artwork!  I love my little house, I truly do.  However, it is crying out for more artwork.  I am always on the lookout for reasonably priced pieces but have been failing in my attempts - suggestions would be gratefully received.  But wait, what's that over the horizon??  Why, it's my brothers coming to save the day.  Younger sibling buys me these gorgeous butterfly prints from Rockett St George.  Older sibling creates his own prints and frames them for me.  LOVE them.  Thank you very much.  And, instead of leaving them unhung (new word?) my husband and I have already got them up in our hallway.  Take a look...

Last up that I wanted to share is a CD that I got. Chvrches.  A cool synth-pop band from Scotland.  Have a listen and see if they're your thing.

Hope you were pleased with your gifts!

CB

*note - he did not make a mistake in marrying me ;-)
Photos - shots of prints in situ by me