Sami Wall, Inc.

unpacking midmod: mood board for the modern eclectic

2012-03-08T20:22:00.014-08:00

I am so excited to announce that my first blog post on HGTV Canada is up!!

If you like the image below, visit HGTV Canada to learn how you can achieve this look at home from sources within Canada. Please enjoy!!

{Image: Design Sponge via Emma Reddington's blog, The Marion House Book. Photographed byMyles Mccutcheon }

little poppy baking co.

2012-02-16T15:18:00.000-08:00

I am extremely proud to announce my latest passion project, little poppy baking co.

I have been baking my Nana's brownie recipe for many years now and I have finally decided to bring these sweet treats to the lips and tummies of the masses. I will be selling both regular and gluten free brownies at Blim Market on February 26th. The venue is the lovely Heritage Hall on Main and 15th in Vancouver.

I hope you come down to say hi and sample these delicious brownies (don't worry... there will be cold milk to wash it down).

local gems...

2012-02-15T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone... long time no blogging. My apologies.

I've been busy scooting around town enjoying some new local gems in our beautiful Vancouver. I want to share these finds so you can go check them out. And if you are not from Vancouver, I hope this post at least provides you with some beautiful inspiration.

Matchstick Coffee Roasters:

Not that Vancouver needs another coffee shop but this one is truly special. A labour of love, the owners spent many years making this dream a reality. The attention to every single detail, material, fixture and accessory makes the space feel effortlessly cool. Please enjoy... matchstick coffee roasters.

Much & Little:

This little shop has products chosen with such care. There is a cozy and nostalgic energy that makes each everyday item such as a tea towel, butter dish or strainer feel like a unique household treasure. Please enjoy... much & little.

joshua tree... mojave sands motel

2011-11-22T14:14:00.001-08:00

As some of you know, I have been extremely energized and inspired by the mid-century vibe of Palm Springs, California design for many years now. On my most recent trip, I decided to spend a few days with Mike and Poppy in Joshua Tree. It's an odd yet intriguing little town and the landscape is completely spiritual and awe-inspiring with its outrageous rock formations, yucca trees and a sky full of stars... it really feels like your on another planet. In addition to the natural beauty, we happened to stay at a special little motel worth blogging about.

The Mojave Sands is a modest and unique 5-room motel just outside Joshua Tree park. Each room is equipped with a typewriter, record player and eucalyptus steam shower while the outdoor space is sprinkled with vintage designer chairs, acorn wood-burning fireplaces and potted cactus gardens. It's a simple and beautiful life staying at the Mojave Sands. The 9-year renovation was obviously a project of the heart as every detail was considered. I hope you think the Mojave Sands Motel is as cool as I do. Please enjoy...

as promised... poppy's room

2011-11-19T21:59:00.000-08:00

A while back I provided some images that inspired the design of my baby's room with hopes of inspiring those of you preparing baby rooms of your own. I also wrote that I would post photos upon completion of the room. Well, the room has been enjoyed by my little Poppy for almost four months now. So without further ado... please enjoy.

{photos by Shane Oosterhoff}

been a little busy...

2011-10-28T11:26:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my recent absence... I have been busy with the little one. I will be back soon to post some new and exciting design inspiration. Thanks for understanding!!

wall of books...

2011-09-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

A bookshelf wall is such a simple and striking way to add a layer of interest to a room. The books provide texture and colour to your space while the size of the bookshelf provides impact as a feature wall. The way you choose to display your books within the shelves will reflect your personal taste. The books can all be stacked uniformly or colour-blocked; you can have some displayed vertically and others horizontally. You may even choose to mix in some knick-knacks or art. A bookshelf wall offers you a beautiful way to showcase your book collection and personalize your space.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6}

minty...

2011-08-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

To me, mint green is a colour of calm vintage nostalgia. I think of kitchen gadgets from the 1950s and pistachio ice cream. Mint green manages to make a fun and playful statement while also remaining quite subtle. When used on modern materials, mint green has a retro feel, which might not be for everyone. But if you love the retro look (like I do… I’m a bit obsessed), it’s a great, unexpected punch colour for a stove, bathtub, light fixture, etc. If you are painting mint green onto a piece of old wood furniture or a vintage chandelier, it tends to create a more tranquil, aged look reminiscent of a worn-down barn or a 1930s lace dress. Mint green is surprisingly versatile and a great candidate for a hip and unique colour scheme.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8}

home tour on HGTV.ca...

2011-08-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

My home was just featured on HGTV.ca.

Click here to see the full article and more photos.

And for those who were waiting to catch of glimpse of my baby's room, please enjoy!

moodboard inspired by... MK Olsen

2011-08-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

This moodboard is inspired by Mary Kate Olsen. Her vibrant red dress with gold details has a vogue and vintage feel. I have selected some furniture pieces and accessories to emulate the feeling of her photo and create a living room space with a similar flair.

{images: 1. pierre frey fabric; 2. tubular metal burst; 3. arched marble table lamp; 4. art; 5. sofa (source unknown); 6. jett desk; 7. chandelier; 8. sunburst mirror; 9. suspended bubble chair; 10. coffee table (source unknown); 11. gold glasses; 12. aurora armchair; 13. southport side table; 14. alice pop armchair; 15. alpaca pillow}

not too shabby...

2011-08-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, you keep hearing about it and nodding your head like you know what it is… shabby chic. Where did it come from? What the heck is it? Here’s the low down. The shabby chic look has two main qualities; items need to appear worn, weathered, distressed and vintage and the colours should provide the space with a light, airy and feminine feel. Shabby chic rooms usually include cotton or linen fabrics with a French romantic flair and furniture pieces where wood has been painted, re-painted and then stripped down a bit so the layers of paint can be admired. The shabby chic look originated in Great Britain and was meant to imitate cottage or country homes. The style should look effortless, elegant, minimal and weathered.

(images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8}

flower power...

2011-08-08T07:30:00.001-07:00

Nothing says summertime like bringing the outside in with fresh-cut flowers. There are so many clever and beautiful ways to display them in your home. Stick to just one flower or plant for a monotone colour scheme, mix and match a variety of wild flowers, or carefully select your vase and flower duo to create a complementary colour scheme. There are some wonderful and creative ways to display succulents and grasses such as suspending them from above or using an everyday object like a cinder block. If you’re having a party, displaying your flower arrangements in old bottles or tins creates a cheerful, clever and cost-effective centrepiece.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8, image 9, image10}

tulip time...

2011-08-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

This classic mid-century chair and table were designed by the Finnish-American architect and industrial designer, Eero Saarinen, in 1955 and 1956 for the Knoll company. The rounded form was considered futuristic and “space-age” at the time and the chairs even appeared on Star Trek!! This dining ensemble’s classic look has stood the test of time, making the design a staple in the ever-changing and evolving interior design realm. The tulip table can be paired with so many different types of chairs and still look amazing. And the tulip chairs are often used in combination with desks to create an adorable workspace. The options are endless when it comes to cushion upholstery for tulip chairs and it’s great to see tulip tables with tops made of different materials such as marble or wood. So sleek and cheerful, the tulip chair and table are one of my very favorite designs.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8}

happy birthday...

2011-07-25T01:00:00.000-07:00

Mike and I are thrilled to announce the arrival our baby girl. We are proud parents... happy and in love with our sweet little one. We wanted to take this opportunity to share our joy.

{bird and poppy image by Geninne D. Zlatkis, Mexico}

the beauty of backsplash...

2011-07-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

When it comes to designing your kitchen, backsplash can really set the tone. There are so many options from patterned tile to subway tile, marble to metal, glass, porcelain and even wallpaper backsplash! White subway tiles always provide a clean and crisp look for an extremely reasonable cost. It’s a great place to save money on your project so you can put it towards other aspects of your kitchen. Plus, white subway tiles compliment many different design looks such as modern, traditional and French provincial. Wallpaper can be used as kitchen backsplash, adding a wild and fun element to your space. Just make sure to put a coat of polyurethane on top so that the paper is easier to clean, as it will most likely get dirty. Changing up your backsplash can be a fast and relatively low-budget way to make a big transformation in your kitchen.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8, image 9, image 10}

lovin' lucite...

2011-07-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have always had a thing for Lucite… what a unique and inspiring material! Lucite is actually a brand name for an acrylic resin developed in the 1930s… so pretty much Lucite is just a type of plastic but it sounds so much fancier when we refer to it as Lucite. Since it arrived on the design scene, this see-through beauty has made a lasting impression, providing us with a strong array of classy and chic furniture. Lucite’s airy presence is especially useful in small spaces, as it adds no visual clutter. It’s funky, it’s crisp and it’s neutral… it’s time for you to add some Lucite to your life.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7}

dwelling for little one...

2011-07-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

My husband Mike and I are expecting our little one in less than a month now (holy smokes!). We have had fun creating a special, happy and cozy space for our baby to call home. We have filled the room with hand-made items created with love and we put our energy into producing a functional, cheerful and positive environment. It’s tricky to make a space gender neutral but I think we have done it successfully. Here are some images that inspired our nursery… I hope they inspire you too! Stay tuned for photos of our nursery.

{images: 1. bungalow rocker, 2. mobile, 3. eclectic and colourful nursery, 4. whale tissue box, 5. pouf, 6. giraffe lamp, 7. wallpaper in nursery, 8. beanbag bookend, 9. mid-century nursery}

white space...

2011-07-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

Nothing brightens up a space like crisp white walls. A fresh coat of white paint will immediately illuminate your room and even make it appear bigger. The key to utilizing white walls effectively is choosing bold and punchy colours to create a happy and cheerful environment or pairing the stark white walls with warm and natural materials such as wood or leather to create a sense of balance. White does not mean sterile… with the right personal touches it can provide you with a bright yet cozy modern space.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6}

we'll all float on...

2011-07-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

Who needs legs and brackets when you can embrace the effortless beauty of the float. There is a magical simplicity to interior design features that appear to be floating. Floating shelves, desks, vanities, benches and staircases have become quite popular, offering a very modern and minimal look. By taking visual weight out of the equation, your functional furniture appears light and airy. The floating staircase is an especially impressive invention, as it seems to defy the very laws of physics. Sometimes less is more… these sleek floating features appear simple in design, however, they have a strong visual impact.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8, image 9}

summer time and the livin's easy...

2011-07-04T07:30:00.001-07:00

Summer time and livin’s easy… and the design is freakin’ cute!! The sun is shining and it has inspired this bright and colourful post. Here are some adorable outdoor products to make your summer time interior design style funky and fun. I believe that your environment directly impacts your mood; these products are guaranteed to create a happy vibe so get outside and surround yourself with some hot summer finds.

{images: 1. tivoli radio, 2. bbq, 3. camera strap, 4. planters, 5. bird feeders, 6. towel, 7. ping pong paddle (+ cover), 8. outdoor pillows, 9. hee chairs, 10. acapulco bag, 11. beach umbrella print}

kelly wearstler...

2011-06-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

Kelly Wearstler is a beautiful, innovative and established American interior designer. Her focus caters to a high-end and international clientele, including hotels and resorts such as the Viceroy properties and the Tides as well as outfitting her sought-after flair to high-profile Hollywood celebrities. Her recognizable style provides a vibrant and glamorous luxury. On top of being a busy and successful interior designer, Wearstler is an author of three design books and has a coveted rug, wallpaper, fabric, bedding, dinnerware and table linens line of goods sold at high-end retail stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. Kelly Wearstler is inspired.

{for more information and inspiration, visit Wearstler’s website and her blog... please enjoy!}

map it out...

2011-06-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

Working with individuals on their homes, I have noticed that to many people, choosing wall décor can feel like an obstacle. Selecting art that fills the wall, feels personal on some level, adds to the room and makes a statement without breaking the bank can seem like a daunting task. Lucky for us, maps have made their way into the interior design realm, offering a flexible and inexpensive way to add a graphic statement to your space.

There are so many different types of maps out there with varying vibes and personalities. I personally have a vintage elementary school pull-down map hanging in my den and it adds a fun splash of colour and nostalgia to the room. Try to choose a map that has personal meaning to you (a map from a certain year, a region that you have traveled to, a place that has always interested you, or the city from which you hail) so that it feels natural and makes you happy. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of ways to map it out.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7, image 8, image 9}

the urban cabin...

2011-06-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Okay… it may not be the season to light your wood-burning fireplace but that doesn’t mean we can’t take this moment to appreciate the rustic charm and beauty of stacked wood. What a wonderful way to add texture to a space. The organic material offers a brilliant contrast to a modern home. And you don’t even need to actually use the wood; it can just be for show… I won’t tell. So stack it up! Create a little nook or designate a shelf or wall for your lumber. Have fun fashioning your own cozy cabin within your urban environment.

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6, image 7}

mix + match...

2011-06-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

We are lucky to live in a time where design rules are readily and creatively broken. One area where we are seeing a lot of rule-breaking is in the dining room. Mixing and matching dining chairs is a fun trend that offers many opportunities to express your individuality. Although it seems like anything goes, there is still a fine balance when selecting an eclectic group of chairs. Figure out what you want your space to say, what vibe you would like it to have, and make sure that each chair adds to the articulation of that look. Mix textures, styles, colours, or patterns… be playful and just have fun with it!

{images: image 1, image 2, image 3, image 4, image 5, image 6 }

let's dish...

2011-06-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

Whether you like to mix and match or stick with one design, finding dishware with personality can be a challenge at times. These are some of my personal favourites. I hope they inspire you and offer some new suggestions of places to shop. If you like the colourful and eclectic look, scavenging through your local vintage stores can be a fun and on-going mission. Setting the table with different colour schemes or patterns for different occasions is a great way to create a particular energy in your space. Perhaps gold and white for new years and a poppy turquoise and yellow for a springtime brunch. Dish it up.

{images: 1. urban outfitters, 2. marimekko, 3. anthropologie, 4. vintage dishes, 5. cb2, 6. west elm, 7. kelly wearstler}

boho chic...

2011-06-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

"Boho", which is short for bohemian, is a term that has changed and evolved over time. Originating in Europe in the late 19^th century, “bohemianism” represented people who lived in lower-rent gypsy neighborhoods and led unconventional and creative lifestyles. Today, the “boho chic” look still reflects the romantic foundations of bohemianism, emulating a true appreciation for beauty and the freedom to express individuality by mixing pieces of furniture from different cultural or design backgrounds as well as mixing colours and prints. “Boho chic” is a more contained and polished look than just plain “boho” but it is still quite eclectic and wildly romantic.

{images: 1.feminine bedroom, 2. workspace, 3. boho bed, 4. living room, 5. dining, 6.romantic curtain}

through his lens...

2011-06-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

Slim Aarons was an American photographer, famous for his work capturing images of socialites, jet setters and celebrities during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. He idealized the rich, showing how beautiful and wonderful their bright and sunny lives were. Aarons’ mantra was "photographing attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places."

I love to view these decades through his lens...

{images: 1. poolside gossip, 2. penthouse pool, 3. finding a spot, 4. esther williams in pool, 5. pool at las brisas, 6. beauty and the beast, 7. kings of hollywood}

posts from the past...

2011-06-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I just started this new blog so I wanted to fill you in on past posts from my Facebook blog. Now you can be up to date with design tips, inspiration, and creative ideas from Sami Wall, Inc. Please enjoy!!

A glimpse into the world of… Jonathan Adler. Known for his “happy chic” look (if you can’t tell), this New-Jersey born bloke began his design career as a potter. He launched his rise to success by selling his whimsical pottery to Barney’s. Adler then opened his first store in Soho and branched out into the furniture, household accessory, and interior design realm… lucky us! Most noted for his needlepoint pillows, designing the Parker Palm Springs Hotel, his quirky pottery, and bold and colourful furniture line, we are happy to gain inspiration from this eccentric and one-of-a-kind guy.

Trying to make a good first impression? Nothing does the trick like a smart front door. This is a great opportunity to be bold with colour because if you get sick of it after a while, switching up the colour is a quick and easy change to make… very non-committal. If you are into a less punchy and more subtle modern door, using an interesting wood, funky door handle or door knocker could do the job in a very tasteful way.

Stairways need to be functional first and foremost, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun and make them a wow-factor in your home. Interesting construction, materials, or finishes can help you transform your stairs into an attention-grabbing feature piece. Just remember to keep with the look of your home to create cohesion. So whether you float them, suspend them, tile them, paint them, curl them, or carpet them, have some fun and please enjoy.

Having trouble choosing a colour scheme for your space? I understand; it can be a bit daunting at times. First things first… I find it’s best to start with one colour that you know you love and want to use. After you know what colour you would like to start with, feel free to use this guide, outlining the six different types of colour schemes, to help you achieve your ideal colour combo. Good luck and may the force be with you.

Sometimes we zig and sometimes we zag. Zigzag patterns have made quite a statement in recent interior design, appearing in high-end, forward-thinking, and lively spaces. From bathroom tiles to area rugs to wallpaper, furniture and accessories, the zigzag pattern has a strong, fun and energetic presence. If you dare to use the mighty zigzag, choose just one element of your room in which to showcase it. Please enjoy.

Shine on you crazy diamond! What’s the best way to shine? With a funky chandelier of course. When choosing a chandelier for above your dining table, take size and shape into account. As a general starting point for size and positioning, the chandelier should take up approximately 50% of your dining table width and be hung about 30” above the table height. If you are struggling with choosing the right chandelier shape for your space, take visual cues from other items/patterns in your room. If you have a square geometric wallpaper print on your feature wall, a square chandelier that mimics these shapes will provide your space with cohesion. Chandeliers are your chance to add a little sparkle… so have fun with it and don’t be afraid to go bold.

Vancouver Special homes, in all their glory, have graced Vancouver neighbourhoods since the 1960s. Historically known as awkward eye-sores, they have become loved in recent years, appreciated for how truly unappealing they are. Some Vancouver Specials have been completely re-invented with new modern facelifts. But this idea is hilarious… local designers, Bob Kronbauer and Jason Sokolowski, constructed a child-sized Vancouver Special for Bob’s two-year old son. Equipped with real concrete kitty cat statues, where one would usually find lions, as well as chalkboard interior walls, and a working drainpipe, this is a true work of art. You can purchase these mini Vancouver Specials at Vancouver Special (how appropriate!).

Look on the bright side my friends. If you’re hesitant to use bold colours in your indoor space, try using them outdoors! Bright colours actually do brighten your mood, releasing serotonin in your brain and making you feel happy. Now, you don’t want your outdoor space to look like a psychedelic trip to Candyland… just pick one, two, or three colours that go well together and make you feel like sunshine.

As far as metallics go, gold is rich, adventurous, vogue, and chic. It looks great as an accent colour, providing a fun touch of bling to any room. Gold can be used to create a retro-chic throwback style such as “Hollywood Regency,” or the fun, retro looks seen in Palm Springs or Palm Beach in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Use gold strategically… an entirely gold room is definitely overdoing it; stick to using gold on a few accessories or one or two major items to make your space look happy, funky, and inviting.

Want to add a splash of culture to your space? Ikat (pronounced ‘ee-KHAT’) is an ancient Indonesian design that has had a major influence on North-American fashion and interior design over the past few years. Ikat patterns can add a vibrant and exotic element to your interior. If you want to create a bold, elegant and eclectic piece of furniture, apply an ikat fabric to a traditional sofa or chair that is not typically associated with the look. Enjoy adding some eye-catching ikat to your life.

This moodboard is for your enjoyment and inspiration. The look I am featuring is what I like to call “rustic chic.” Achieve this rustic look by adding elements of country style to your space such as raw wood, antlers, animal hide, wrought iron, fur, stone, or any other natural materials. To then make your space more “chic,” pair these items with a hint of glamour… a gold and glass coffee table, velvet throw pillows, or a button-tufted ottoman.

This week we are featuring the beauty of feature walls! A feature wall attracts your attention when you walk into a room and provides the space with emphasis. It’s a great way to make a statement and set a tone without overwhelming the viewer. You can create a feature wall by using art, paint, wallpaper, drapery, or a change of material such as tile, wood, concrete, or stone.

These special ottomans (now commonly called poufs) have become the ultimate "floater" piece of furniture. They offer versatility as they can transform from a coffee table to a footstool to additional seating, all within the same space. Pus, they provide a great opportunity to add colour, pattern, or texture to your room.

hello...

2011-06-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to my blog!

I am excited to begin sharing beautiful and inspiring designs with you.

Please enjoy...

Hearts,

Sami

{images from confettisystem.com}