Can you imagine going to this beautiful space everyday for work?

I work from home, so I'm pretty lucky that I can design my space however I want (or however my wallet allows), but I have worked in a few offices and it's sad that we have to spend so much of our lives in a space where we can't really make it ours. Often it's hideous cubicle partition walls that we have to stare at day in and day out.

The loft is that of polish bag producer Batycki, a company located in north Poland - Gdansk.  It's light-filled and decorated with vintage furniture and accessories.  The plants also add a nice touch.

great shot

What do you think of the loft? Is your office space nicely designed/decorated, or do you with the company you work for put a bit more emphasis on good interior design?

The most interesting room in the world

So I had a reader come to me with a really fun request -

"Have you seen those Dos Equis commercials, about 'the most intersting man in the world?'
I have a library that I'd like to decorate like that - leather, skeletons, artifacts, books - and I was wondering if you could do a blog post on rooms that have that sort of 'worldly' look." -V

In case you're not sure about the ad she mentions - you can watch it here.

Here is a shot from the ad and two photos I found on the Dos Equis website.


Here are some images I dug up to provide some more ideas and inspiration for achieving that old-world, well traveled look.

This library is very similar because of the stone fireplace and rich upholstery and fabrics. Notice also a globe, stacks of old books, and the scientific painting of the skull.
via Fresh Home

From a Buenos Aires bed and breakfast.
via Claundine's Homes

Maps are an easy way to accomplish an worldly look, also they are affordable and widely available. You could even go to a used bookstore and find maps in books to cut out and display.
via Apartment Therapy

via Great Interior Design

via Ralph Lauren Home

two above via Style Rumors

via Design is Mine

via Point Click Home

Notice that in all of the rooms that dark walls instantly create a sense of intrigue. Also - keep in mind that most objects should not match -or come as a set. Curiosities and artifacts are gathered overtime from different places. You'll have different textures and colors in your fabrics, furniture, and objects.

An academic atmosphere also contributes to a worldly look - journals, good illumination, and organized collections.
via Point Click Home

Classic architectural sketches are also a nice touch - and can be found in flea markets and bookstores - even better if from your travels!
via Home Interior Design Themes

A faux stucco plaster treatment is a gorgeous way to create an antiquated look.
via Sandy Foster

Turn to libraries and museums for ideas.

Specimen drawers, apothecary jars, and specimen mounts are all ways to give your objects an "interesting" look. You can find these supplies at specimen and lab suppliers.
Two above images from via Curious Expositions

Thanks Victoria for a great idea! Does anyone else have some tips or ideas?

Beautiful built-ins

I've lived in quite a few old houses and one thing I love about them are the built-in features. Bookcases, desks, window seats - they add so much charm and personality. How about you? What's your feeling on built-ins?

A dreamy day bed/window seat - oh the hours I could spend there
via My Home Ideas

...a little girl's paradise...
via LKS Design


serene office - my desk is never that clean though - as I use it to work on... :)

I love this room. The curtains hung lower ads a lot of dimension to the room I think...










via Decor Pad

via High Fashion Home Blog

A surprising resource for home decorating (and it's on sale!)

I go through a novel a week commuting to and from work on the train, and I usually procure my literary enjoyment through Barnes and Noble. Little did I know they had such an extensive collection of home decor and small furniture goods until they sent me an email announcing their 20% off spring sale on their home collection. It's worth a look if you need things for your home office and or library.

Love these mini white vases

the very cool invisible bookshelf


I have a retro minimalist clock similar to this and I love it

This interesting vase/bowl/platform is called liquid cardboard - is recycled and recyclable, and you can shape it.







Kate Spade paper - I love her colors