Let’s say that, just like me, you aren’t that fond of the holiday season. What would your tactic be to escape the drama? A nice getaway, some place warm and sunny? My first guess exactly! Unfortunately ever since I saw pictures of Maison Rika the land of tulips and clogs is high on my priority list. This guesthouse in Amsterdam is owned by fashion designer Uirika Lundgren and houses her shop on the ground floor. I’m in love with the dramatic black wooden floors, the carefully decorated rooms and the Ulrika’s trademark star popping up in the interior.
I could so see myself cozying up with a warm cup of tea and a stack of magazines in one of these rooms. Seems like the perfect urban hide away to forget about the time of the year and sub zero temperatures. And in case you wandered her own house is also as gorgeous.
Maison Rika
Oude Spiegelstraat 2
1016BM Amsterdam
all pictures were found on rikaint.com last one was found here.
A couple of weeks ago, in the midst of our very short Indian summer, I was invited by Ike and Kahtryn of Ampersand House for a private viewing of their current exhibition: Brazilian Modern, Icons and Innovation. As I experienced during my first visit the selection of furniture, art and objects was exquisite and refined adding a new dimension and perspective to this maison de maitre. My favorite space this time was the dining area. Think beautiful handwoven rugs, dark exotic wood and striking lighting fixtures.
The lovely enthusiastic galerist Laurence of Gallery Transversal, who represents the exhibited artists, talked me through most of the pieces. This is how I got to know the work of Mariannita Luzzati.
Beautiful, isn’t it? The other spaces were off course as thoughtfully curated.
And this time a gorgeous selection of jewelry made by Brazilian artists Vera Cortes and Bettina Terepins was also on display. I fell head over heels for Laurence’s ring.
Needles to say I’m starting to cultivate a deep crush for Brazil. Make sure to check the outtakes on the Facebook page.
Brazilian Modern: Icons and Innovation (till Saturday 29th September)
Ampersand House
30, rue Tasson Snel
1060 Brussels
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
I have a confession to make. Two weekends ago I visited Bruges for the very first time of my life. Even though I’ve been born and raised in Belgium, I had never visited this charming city before. For this last minute weekend getaway I luckily still managed to book a room at Sint Jacobs B&B. Compared to most B&B’s in the city (think lots of froufrou, an excess of antique furniture and heavy chandeliers) it seemed perfect to my taste: straightforward, calm and airy. Don’t be fooled by the first picture. After a burst of lime green in the majestic hallway a peaceful oasis awaited in form of a spacious room in different shades of white.
Crisp white sheets and an occasional quirky detail made me feel at home straight away.
The next day I woke up extra early to take pictures of the dining area, annex kitchen, where breakfast was served. The room is perfectly executed in a black and white colour scheme with pops of bright colours. There I got a chance to talk to the owner Thierry who explained the history of the house (it used to house a textile company) while he was making freshly squeezed orange juice. All very laid back and relaxed. The meal did not disappoint: home made bread, fresh fruit salad, different types of cereals, yogurt and a nice crispy baguette.
I loved the juxtaposition of the black chairs with the painted wooden floor…
not to mention the design. Like a modern day version of an art deco seat. I forgot to ask the name of the designer but I’ve emailed Thierry and will add the info asap (chairs are Phillipe Starck for Kartell). So when in Bruges you know where to stay.
St. Jacobs B&B
Oude Zak 20
8000 Brugge
To view the outtakes visit the Facebook page
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
I think by now you should get the atmosphere and scale of the project. But, what do you see beyond this great 1950s chair?
Indeed, a beautiful city garden. As you can see the weather gods were not on my side the day of my visit. It actually started raining realy badly when I entered the garden but I was still able to take some pictures. Icing on the cake is that the garden and gallery are at your disposal if you wish to organize an event. Not only is Ampersand House a gallery of art and design, Ike and Kathryn provide an event service so they can accommodate you and your guests in this great setting. Sounds like a great plan, doesn’t it?
Thank you, Ike and Kathryn, for your hospitality and showing me around. I hope to visit the house again really soon.
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
