Attention to detail

Oak door of a private residence, Delft, Zuid-Holland. I love how the bronze letter slot has similar lines to the wrought iron trim.

 

I've spent my entire life paying attention to detail. This focus has served me in good stead, both as a writer and a photographer.

While living in London and particularly during ten years in Paris, I collected many, many beautiful antiques and vintage items for our home. I never imagined that moving to a canal house in the Netherlands would mean my tastes would change dramatically. While retaining an appreciation for all I've collected, I have a strong desire for a different aesthetic.

It began with admiring lights (old and new) by Danish designers Louis Poulsen, Louise Campbell and Cecilie Manz. The interest grew into obsession, fueled by watching Danish political thriller Borgen (I & II) and crime dramas The Killing and The Bridge. I began reading Scandanavian design books, magazines and blogs.

The Danish and Swedish designs perfectly suit the clean, modern lines of our house. They also reflect the more relaxed way we're living in the Netherlands. Slowly, many of the French antiques are being replaced with design classics, which blend well with my favourite pieces collected during years of travel and living abroad.

Relaunch of a Swedish design icon

Thanks to reading Scandanavian design blogs, I was excited to learn about the revival of the iconic Swedish Triplex lights. It's a true labour of love for these talented creators. I have reserved a lamp from their first production, due later this summer. It will be a welcome addition to my office! To request your own Triplex lamp, contact Ulrikka Kullenberg.

New design magazine

My friend and interior designer extraordinaire Francoise Murat and her colleagues Kate Thompson and Sam McArthur have started a new digital magazine, STUFF UNCOVERED. They bill it as "a celebration of the unusual, the eclectic and the downright daft." I especially like Francoise's account of the Mid-Century Design Show in Dulwich, London and Kate's round-up of Britain's summer festivities. Read the premiere issue of STUFF UNCOVERED here.

Paris Parfait on etsy

P.S. What am I doing with all the French antiques and vintage collectibles I don't plan to keep? Smaller items are for sale on etsy, while larger treasures and furniture will be sold to an Amsterdam antiques dealer. If you don't see something you fancy, stay tuned...many more items are yet to be listed!

Comments

[Francoise Murat]

Much thanks Tara - how very kind to mention STUFF Uncovered. A bit of fun discovering all kinds of people and things! I hope you get better soon too.Fx

[Tara Bradford]

Jeanie, you are too kind! The house has changed quite a bit since you were here and we're still awaiting the sofa (end of July) and some other things to arrive from various locations. Am hoping that by September, it will be mostly done. :)

[jeanie]

Tara, it is your attention to detail that captures my heart. Your very clean and modern lines are a masterpiece in warmth -- something that doesn't always occur with modern. Thanks for posting the links. I'm looking forward to settling in with Stuff Uncovered and learn much more about your other design inspirations!