Inspired Living: Miki Organics

I came across a fantastic little online shop today called Miki Organics (gotta love Twitter!) in Britain. I loved the vintage feel of her product shots, and of course the products themselves speak volumes. On trend or not, I can't get enough of natural textures, beachy, neutral shades - every time I see it I just can't stop staring - think cream, charcoal grey, natural wood tones... The name Miki comes from the Japanese translation of 'beautiful tree' - perfect.

"Set up in 2008 by Claire Watson, Miki sources stylish ethical and eco friendly interior design, accessories and gifts. If you are like us then being surrounded by good design and gorgeous clothes makes you happy. We want to be the change we want to see in the world. This means making sure that the people who make our products are also happy, and that from crop to final product the best environmental practices are used."

I think these mini tagines are my favourite! A perfect little salt cellar!

 

{eco} design: Century Home in Sweden

This week's eco design feature comes from Victoria Hamberger, a designer from the Swedish town of Lindingo.  A century home built in 1907, Victoria and her family were intent on restoring and updating the home, yet maintain some of it's previous character - a colourful home previously owned by Anders and Nunni Beckman, founders of the Beckman College of Design.  Victoria set about using colour but keeping it in balance with the furniture she already had and a lighter, less intense feel.  It's not hard to see what drew me to this home.  It's striking, yet peaceful.  As always, we've added the Pure Green touch and added a few green resources, in case you'd like this look at home {who wouldn't} with a little eco flair.

Remember the concrete tiles by Popham Design I mentioned yesterday?  Here they are.  Made in a respectable manner in line with traditional Moroccan technique. 

Such lightness and colour!  I don't know about you, but purple would never be my main accent colour of choice, and yet, this made me reconsider.  How lovely and fresh - I really love the purple vintage cabinet.  The look is anchored by the dark wood floors.  1 eco point for keeping the original hardwood and choosing to refinish them.  Achieve a similar painted look using non-toxic paint by AFM - their Trim & Door formula is up to the job.

1 eco point for the healthy dose of refinished antique pieces found in each room, such as the white Fyndade sideboard and orange lamp found at a flea market in Smalande.  The chair is vintage too, from the Swedish auction site Lauritz that specializes in quality antiques and design classics.

Victoria is also the entrepreneur behind Glowb, a rug company that makes modern and stylishly appointed rugs, including the lovelies shown here in Victoria's home.  The rugs are handmade in India using natural materials and ethical practices.  In fact, Glowb states that part of their mandate is to help contribute to an improved quality of life for it's employees, including investing in schools and education.

As I'm sure you know by now PG is a HUGE fan of vintage.  I couldn't resist showing this collection of vintage bar ware, from Victoria's parents.  

Get a similar look in as this kitchen by having bespoke cabinetry built in using bamboo plywood.  The vertical grain in amber from Plyboo will result in a very similar look.  Recycled glass countertops from Icestone will complete the look, along with some non-toxic paint by Mythic.  Keep watch on ebay for a vintage Saarinen tulip table.

Finally, check out Fireclay Tile's Debris Line {made of recycled content} in Black Gloss for a very similar look.

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design: M.Elle Interiors

I've been trying to relieve my serious addiction to magazine's lately.... giving myself the 'do I really need this?' treatment, but the experience has been quite traumatizing.  I had a moment of weakness yesterday and stopped by my favourite shop, which has the best selection of International design mags!  I knew I had done myself in the second I saw the stacks.... I just can't help it.  I love the images, and they are one of my primary sources of inspiration and content here on Pure Green!  At any rate, I knew I was taking the latest issue of Elle Decor home when I spotted their cover featuring the stunning rustic mountain home by M.Elle Design.  You may have seen it around by now, but in case you haven't... take a peek.  It's wonderful.

Is it eco?  In it's entirety, perhaps not.  However, it does have some great eco elements... all my favourites in fact.  Rustic, reclaimed barnboard..... it's everywhere, and concrete.  The bathroom's boast beautiful concrete vanities.  Mmmgood!  If you wanted to acheive this look, but wanted to ramp up the eco, here are a few ideas:

1. Non-toxic, eco friendly soft furnishings from Lee Industries or Cisco Brothers.

2. Non-toxic, zero VOC paint from Mythic or Safecoat.

3. Natural wool area rugs from  Merida Meridian.

I could go on... if you are looking for an eco source for something in particular, just ask!  Send me an email or leave a comment, I'll do my best for ya.

{eco} design: off-grid

I came across this little outpost, completely off grid, and I fell in love with it.  Looking at it, I can imagine being there and feeling like nothing matters.  It looks so isolated and lonely, but also charming - like you are connected to something... else.

I have had so many amazing moments spent with a horse.  You should meet my mare... her name's Annie.  In fact, you will!  Soon.

So amazing..... 

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