Shutter Bug

These shutters in "Sirena", above and below, have fabric inserts which let in filtered light and fold back on themselves.

These shutters in the new Seafarers Cottages are painted paneled pine and are designed to block out the street light at night.

My favourite window treatment would have to be the shutter. In our two small beach houses we chose to have shutters made for the windows instead of curtains because they create such a wonderfully coastal vibe.

In My House - the shop!

This is the second time I have set up a shop and it doesn't get any easier... But hey it is pretty good fun and here is my latest venture, still a work in progress.

In My House is in Berry, a small historic town 2 hours south of Sydney. The countryside is idyllic - all green rolling hills running down to lovely beaches. The town used to be well known for its antiques but this all died away in the past decade. That is why I am pleased to be bringing back some vintage mixed with new. The "old mixed with new" thing is my point of difference and don't most of us have that sort of mix in our houses?

I have found some excellent craftspeople in the area who help me restore furniture, not to mention one lady in particular who makes fabulous cushions and soft furnishings. 

Pics: The garden corner features beautiful hand-made, rustic garden products from Heaven In Earth which is a local business set up by Jocelyn Van Hoven who originally hails from Conneticut, USA. Very Martha! I painted the dresser lime green and rubbed it back to show the pink underneath.

Aqua Chair: This is an original Parker Knoll chair from England which I had restored and covered in an American linen.

Seaside Corner: Berry is a stop off point for people heading down to beachside weekenders so its great to stock some white-washed firniture, shells, coral and driftwood.

Garden Setting: I love that the shop opens onto a garden laneway. I am collecting architectural bits and pieces, like gates and doors which I put out here.