The Blues

I have them.

The White Couch of Doom

A little while ago (okay, a long while ago) I put together this concept for my living room. Inspired by the colours of my then tiny, harmless kitten, I drew upon her grey, white and apricot shades and put together a palette that's a little bit feminine, but not so much so that Mr. Unreliable would flip out. This scheme also works in with my apartment's grey/beige greige carpet and silver/grey/beigey-brown fittings.

The problem, in case it's not already glaringly obvious, is The White Couch of Doom.

Let me say that again.

The White Couch of Doooooooooooooooooooooooom.

Sadly, it's the only item from that image that I actually own. I bought it pre-kitten (and pre-reality) and I love it...but it doesn't stay white for long. Removable covers are all well and good, except that I'm the only one who ever cleans them and they need to be cleaned at least fortnightly. Mr. Unreliable not only makes most of the mess, but he also promised me (when he chose the white cover!) that he would help keep it clean, including never putting his feet on the couch. Never. He broke that last promise within half an hour of getting TWCoD home.

So now I have a dilemma. 

Being the consummate party animal, I asked for a rug for my birthday. Yes, a rug. That rug. The one in the picture there, under the Impossibly Pristine White Couch On Which Unicorns Drink Fairy Dust Martinis.

The issue is that the whole palette has been (foolishly) built around The White Couch of Doom. It provides balance, contrast, lightness. If When I finally get jack of grubby footprints and grey cat hair coating the couch and give in to buying a dark grey cover (like I should have from the outset!) then the whole dynamic changes, the whole palette becomes darker and less vibrant.

So, impeccably stylish readers. What say you?

xx Kit

P.S. Have any lovely Australian readers come across the pictured coffee table (or similar) anywhere? I've only been keeping a casual eye out, but I haven't seen anything even vaguely resembling that design...and I must have it, I must!

Seasonally Subtle - Stylish Christmas Decorations

As someone who's not into tinsel or anything overtly Christmas-themed (apart from my Christmas tree, of course!) I'm really enjoying the Christmas decoration posts over at The Style Files.

So much prettiness, without being over the top. But on that note...

Last Friday I made the mistake of ducking into one of those Christmas warehouses, and let's just say that my search for some plain white and/or silver baubles is ongoing. I don't even know how a warehouse full of flashing lights and multi-coloured decorations is even capable of being so depressing, but sure enough...

On the bright side, however, I did pick up this little beauty for the grand total of $3. It's so glittery and over the top that I just had to have it. It now keeps watch over my dark little hallway, observing the comings and goings of my noisy upstairs neighbours in all its obnoxiously sparkly glory.

Yes, that's right 3am Madonna-cranking neighbours, GlitterBow is Watching! *insert ominous laughter here*

xx Kit

P.S. This is what happens when I try to function with no caffeine. My apologies.

Rue Awakening

If you're like me and you've had your head in the proverbial sand for the last few months, you may not have heard about Rue yet, so allow me introduce you to the coolest new kid on the block.

Rue is a completely free and ridiculously good looking online magazine filled to the brim with beautiful people, places and things, and only two issues in it has already established a wide and devoted audience - it's not difficult to see why.

Co-founded by Crystal of Plush Palate and Anne of The City Sage, Rue is "fueled by [a] mission to bring the inclusive nature of blogging to a magazine," and flicking through the pages and seeing so many familiar names and faces, it's obvious that Rue has been welcomed with open (virtual) arms...and rightfully so.

With an eclectic mix of styles, price points and people, this is an amazing online resource for all things interiors. Despite the American focus (not that there's anything wrong with that!) and my already heavily burdened credit cards, I suspect Rue is going to become a reliable staple in my decorPorn diet.

Rock on, Rue!

Derelicte - Detroit Disassembled

Today I'm posting a little more derelicte goodness that I came across on Sean Woolsey's site (more here) because you know me, once I get something in my head, it tends to stay there until something shiny distracts m...

Ooooh photos!

But seriously, le gasp. These heartbreaking neglected interiors are from “Detroit Disassembled," a book that thanks to Sean I am now completely obsessed with obtaining, but possibly not if it costs this much...oh alright, there's a $51 version too!

Nevertheless, this is the kind of ArchiPhotography that not only tugs at my heartstrings, but that also ignites in me the desire to respect, refurbish and restore...though quite possibly with all the layers in tact, including every single layer of graffiti! Anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting the Brisbane Powerhouse will know that I mean!

So Car City, I hope you know that despite your recent struggles, we still love you. A lot.


xx Kit

P.S. Just found this review and was struck by the inclusion of the term 'glimmer of hope' - for the sake of these beautiful buildings of Detroit, I'm so glad it's not just me who sees the potential or the promise. Rock on, Detroit!

On Top and In Between

Alright, perhaps I'm still not feeling quite on top of things, but I'm getting there. I ticked quite a few things off my To Do list today, so I'm feeling positive...which is good, because that's what this blog is all about.

And that's precisely why I want to share this playful 'Lost In Sofa' with you. It's not particularly my style anymore, and it's definitely something that wouldn't be at home in my own apartment, but from a design point of view I can't help but love it.


As someone who is constantly losing my mobile phone, remote controls, keys, books...and yes, even my coffee (le gasp!)...the idea of just being able to tuck it into my sofa as a means of finding my belongings rather than losing them in the first place...beyond genius.

And even better is the fact that I could hit up to four birds with one stone! One book appropriately slotted into place could hold my keys, coffee, phone, and even other books!

A very smart, very appealing design from Tokyo-based architects, Daisuke Motogi Architecture. In fact, this is one super-modern looking design that I'd consider changing my whole apartment around for...stick in a few flowers and I'd be right at home!

It's strange to think how much my style has evolved since I started THAT[unreliable]GIRL two whole years ago, especially as my aesthetic remained very much the same for many years prior, including my six delightful long years at Architecture School.

And while I continue to ponder my ever-evolving style, I hope you have an amazing weekend! I'll be spending my time off working on some very exciting design projects, including a great collaboration that I can't wait to share with you!

What do you have planned?


xx Kit


P.S. Thank you to Michaela for the link, via FastCo Design & DesignMilk.

Matryoshkas Made to Measure

Oh. My. Matryoshka. How flippin' adorable are these Russian nesting doll measuring cups from Fred? As if I wasn't having enough trouble keeping out of the kitchen (no really, I've been on a scone rampage and my waistline is living proof!)

[M-Cups]

You'd be crazy to hide these little guys away in a drawer somewhere (or 3 separate drawers...my measuring cups don't seem to get along!) so I LOVE that an item that has always been notoriously functional is now utterly adorable too.

And and and...there's even measuring spoons too. You'd have to be a bit more creative in how to display these, but where there's a will, there's a way!

[M-Spoons]

I'm told that perfect measurements and very precise timing are the secret behind making your very own macarons. Yes, I'm talking macarons. So far, I've eaten more than my fair share but I've never delved into the secret French Baking Underworld* of making these pretties myself.

[Soda inspecting my *coughBOUGHTcough* strawberry, passionfruit and lavender violet macarons]

This weekend, I think I just might. I've got my imaginary beret and I'm ready to roll bake. Scones will just have to wait...probably not long though, if my macaron adventure turns out just as disasterous as I expect. Anyway, wish me luck!


What Secret Weekend Adventures do you have planned?

*I like to think that everyone wears berets in the French Baking Underworld. And frou frou skirts and heels. And there's a secret membership handshake. It's like a cult, but cooler. And much, much tastier.

Indulgent Interiors

It's been quite a while since I've indulged my love of interiors, so what better way to get back into the swing of things than with some luxe spaces as photographed by Mel Yates. From bold and crisp through to outrageously lavish, and straight on back to refined yet quirky, this man knows how to capture great interiors.

[Mel Yates for House & Garden, Heal's]

[Mel Yates for The Orangery at Aynhoe Park, Oxfordshire]

[Mel Yates for Elle Decoration]

With clients like House & Garden, Living Etc and Elle Decoration, Mel's aesthetic is quite varied on the surface, but on closer inspection there's a fun, humourous undercurrent that ties much of his work together, from purple neon lighting through to full-sized stuffed giraffes.

Yes. Giraffes. And if stuffed giraffes happen to tickle your fancy, check out the rest of the delightfully over the top interiors of Aynhoe Park.

[via desire to inspire again!]

Crazy Cute Clouds

If ever there was a justification for painting your walls bright blue, this is it.

Adorable cloud shelves from DesignTorget. Want!

[via @jessicahische]

Wednesday Wisdom - Seriously

Not a shred of evidence
exists in favor of the idea
that life is serious.

- Brendan Gill

When in doubt, laugh.


xx Kit


[Images by ABCD Design and Lonny via Plush Palate]

Happy Monday - Bedrest, Books and Baths

Happy Monday my lovelies! I'm feeling quite under the weather today so I'm going to be all about bedrest, books (getting my Austen on with Mansfield Park), and soothing baths until further notice.

In the meantime though, have you seen my stealthy Giveaway Goodness Surprise? It's a good'un I tellsya!

[L-R: Sabrina Rothe via desire to inspire, simply contemporary via delight by design]

Wistful Weekends

What a crazy week! As much as I love long weekends, they sure do make the following four day week into a whole barrel of busy! I suspect I'll be spending much of this weekend behind the computer trying to make up for lost time, especially as I was forced to sit around and twiddle my thumbs for most of today while I anxiously waited for my very broken iPhone (gasp!) to back up.

If only I had the good luck to spend my weekend in a space like this! (And if only my little PC didn't need SO many cords!)

But here's hoping your weekend looks a little more like this...


Or, if the weather allows, maybe something like this.


I think I'm already missing picnic weather, but given that I was genuiney excited to wear a scarf today for the first time this year, I think I'll be alright!

Happy Friday, have a wonderful weekend! And stay tuned for a very exciting Friday surprise...


xx Kit


[Images in order: Sabrina Rothe interior photography via desire to inspire, Lori Guyer's restyled porch via Design*Sponge, Amy and Stuart wedding photography via Erin Ever After]

Wednesday Wisdom - Colour Cravings

I cannot pretend


to feel impartial about colours.


I rejoice with the brilliant ones


and am genuinely sorry


for the poor browns.

-- Sir Winston Churchill (1874 - 1965)

There's something not quite right about sharing whimsical fashion photography and neon interiors alongside a Winston Churchill quote, but somehow, I think it still works.

I've recently found myself craving colour, and lots of it! Don't get me wrong, I still love bright whites and soft neutrals, but every now and then you need a dash of eye-popping colour to liven up your day.

Hope your week is treating you well!


xx Kit


[Fashion Photography by Natasha Ygel via DesignScene, Interiors via coreopsislibra]

In an Ideal World...

...My kitten wouldn't attack anything with tassels, my boyfriend wouldn't insist on leaving his clothes, shoes and various items of crockery on my white couch, and I would have had the foresight to do some serious Scotchguarding before I let either of those two grubby little demons near said vulnerable couch.

Oh, and in an ideal world, my living room would look like this...

In reality, I only have that couch, complete with antique white couch cover...what was I thinking?! I may have bought it a few months prior to falling in love with my little grey kitten, but still, I should have known better. The only person I know who's messier than I am is Mr. Unreliable. Worse still is that even though I'm messy, I compensate by going into complete cleaning overdrive whenever we have guests...Mr. Unreliable however, couldn't care less.

He always rolls his eyes and exclaims wearily "Oh why bother cleaning, it's just so-and-so!" He has applied this sound slice of logic to just about everyone, including my mother, and it wouldn't surprise me if he extended it to prime ministers, presidents and/or queens, were they ever to be in the neighbourhood.

His priorities are elsewhere...and I'm almost a little envious that he can be so blasé about the whole deal. The cynic in me says that he doesn't need to worry, because hey, who's going to judge him for having a messy house? He's a guy!

One part of me tells me this is ridiculous, but the other part keeps playing over the many times various family and friends ask ME why Mr. Unreliable is so darn skinny, and why I haven't been feeding him well.

Oh I'm sorry, I wasn't aware we'd travelled back in time and landed in 1952! Let me just get my apron and my hot rollers! Did you park the Delorean out front?

HE CAN FEED HIMSELF! He's a grown man, he lived out of home long before I came along, let him cook for himself. Or here's a crazy idea, let him cook for ME!

But I digress. Here's the crux of it. I feel like I will be judged if our home isn't perfectly spotless. I feel as though it will reflect poorly on me, and nobody else.

I thought that these feelings might just be down to an age old battle of designers cohabiting with non-designers, but I suspect this is a little larger, and I'm quite sure I'm not alone...am I?

Bring the Outdoors In

I'm currently on the hunt for living room chairs; the kind of hunt that takes place entirely from my computer, but is fervent nonetheless. And whilst you couldn't tell from the current state of my abode, I'm notoriously picky when it comes to furniture. Perhaps picky isn't quite the right word, try...indecisive.

Most of this stems from the fact that I get to see beautiful furniture every day at the office job, but in designer mode the price tag is usually an afterthought. At home however, it's front and centre, and my taste rarely line up with my wallet.

Which is why, in theory, these Nido chairs by Javier Pastor for Expormim could be the answer. Not only would they look smashing in my little living room, but they'd also be just as comfortable on my balcony too. It's basically two pieces of furniture for the price of one - bargain!

In reality however, even with such marvellous post-justification, I suspect the price point might still be a tiny bit out of reach. For now.

[via AT]

I Love Lavender

Yes, yes I do. Sadly, cohabitation with a smelly (and picky!) boy limits my opportunities to indulge in theis corner of the colour spectrum, but maybe I'll just start sneaking in a few pink touches while he's not looking!

[Image by LivingEtc via {this is glamorous} and four walls and a roof]

Day Dreams

I'm not sure whether it's a lack of caffeine, a lack of sleep, or an evil combination of the two finally catching up with me, but no matter how many times I try to write my Alice in Wonderland review it comes across so much more negative than I mean for it to be.

So for now I'm going to offer my apologies for another delayed post, gaze lovingly at this amazing bedroom for a little longer (the work of my new designer crush, Kara Mann), then retire to my own (considerably less amazing) room with the hopes of an altogether more positive disposition tomorrow.*

Sweet dreams!


*I blame Pride and Prejudice for this complete faffery of the English language. Hehe, faffery.

[Image via fourwallsandaroof]

Caster Sugar - Squeals on Wheels

I have a strange obsession with furniture on casters, so much so that when I saw this amazing roundup on desire to inspire, I literally clapped my hands together and squealed with glee.

I'm not particularly phased by the functionality of moveable furniture, though I do giggle at the thought of wheeling my bed around screaming 'Canyoneroooooo' a la The Simpsons.

But back to my point, it's not the ease of cleaning or any other such practical nonsense considerations (because let's be honest, domestic duties don't really sit near the top of my priorities list!)


Perhaps it's the hint of movement, and the promise of change that keeps me coming back to casters...even if they're embedded so deeply in the carpet that any such change would require the lifting strength of four men.


Or maybe it's the industrial/rural/institutional edge that casters can give to an otherwise unassuming item - something just a little bit out of place in a super-modern setting, but still somehow just right. A dash of subtle contrast to liven things up a little.

Or...maybe it's all of the above. Especially the bit about The Simpsons.

P.S. Tiny Ten Tuesdays will return next week, complete with a little surprise! Eeeeeek, so excited!

Pimp My Prints

As cliché as the work of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec may be, I have three prints that I think deserve a place on my walls. It's not the prints I adore so much as the memory of buying them from a tiny corner store in Paris...in true dorky tourist fashion of course!

But I have a problem - I can't for the life of me decide which kind of framing looks best, so naturally I'm asking you (if you're reading this, you obviously have great taste!)

If you happened to have sliiiiightly off-white walls, Boring McBland beige carpets and a colour scheme full of whites, creams, warm greys and unavoidable splashes of stainless silver ..which would you choose?

L-R 1. Black, Plain | 2. Black, Simple

3. Black, Shabby | 4. Black, Ornate

5. White, Simple | 6. White, Shabby

7. Silver, Simple | 8. Silver, Ornate

poll by twiigs.com

Vote away!

P.S. A gazillion years ago I did a similar post when I couldn't decide how to restore my Brady-Bunch-esque bookcase, and you'll be pleased to know I took your wise advice, told Mr. Unreliable to shove it, and painted that baby gloss white! There are photos lying around here somewhere...

Wallpaper, The Westwood Way

Vivienne Westwood does wallpaper. Oh yes my friends, and the results are just as unpredictable as the lady herself. In amongst the trademark tartans and the ubiquitous Union Jack are some surprisingly demure designs, and even a Marimekko-esque mod inclusion or two.

[Left: Squiggle | Right: Cut-out Lace]

[Left: Magnolia | Right: Absence of Rose]

[Left: Tartan | Right: Vivienne's Lace]

Much of the collection features familiar patterns with a Westwood twist, all in an enviable array of colour options that range from light and neutral to bold and brash.

Though it doesn't get much bolder than trademark Vivienne Westwood - I can't help but love the tattered and tarnished Union Jack or the flamboyant tartan ruffles of Trompe l'oeil Drape (even if I'd never be brave enough to put them on my own walls!)

[Top Left: Vivienne's Lace | Top Right: Cut-out Lace]
Bottom Left: Paper Jewellery | Bottom Right: Dogtooth]

For whiteophiles like me however, it's hard to go past the detail and depth of Vivienne's Lace (above, top left) or Cut-out Lace (above, top right). Go have a looksee on the Cole & Son website for more detailed images if you don't believe me!

Now...to just convince my landlord!


[via indesignlive]