Pick of the Pads: Simply Beautiful

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Elle Decoration February 2014 magazine cover with pair of glasses

We’ve turned to the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration for this month’s Pick of the Pads.

'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

This wonderful loft apartment is situated in the Norwegian city of Stavanger and is the home of Mariken Steen and her partner Stian Einar Forgaard.

table and chairs in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

Mariken is an illustrator & Stian a film director, so as they put it, “are exposed to a lot of visual stimulation” in their work lives. Their home is a retreat from this – calmness, simplicity & functionality are the words that spring to mind.

seating in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

The interior is essential for their mental well being – an uncluttered house for an uncluttered mind, in effect.

Clothes on a hanging rail in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

The apartment is decorated quite sparsely, but certainly doesn’t lack interest. In fact, the simplicity makes it easier for your eyes to rest on certain views or pieces. A great deal of thought & sourcing has gone into it.

Kitchen in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

There’s a wonderful mix of vintage, recycled & contemporary pieces – a palette of greys, creams & browns runs throughout.

Bedroom in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

The space is full of natural light & materials, much of it provided by the structure of the building which the owners stripped right back during their renovations. Rooms are softened by textiles & candlelight.

Doorways in 'Simply Beautiful' article from the February 2014 edition of Elle Decoration magazine

Interiors perfection – Simply Beautiful – we love it!

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Charity Vintage: Stavangerflint plate

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Stavangerflint plate designed by Inger Waage with a handpainted face of a woman for sale on eBay for Charity in support of Age UK South Lakeland
(ends 29 Apr 2013 19:13:13 BST)

We’ve just spied this beautiful vintage Stavangerflint plate on the web. It was hand painted by Inger Waage in the 1950s/60s. These female faces always make me think of Cleopatra or Spanish señoritas – it must be their huge almond-shaped eyes and big hooped earrings!

She’s currently up for sale on eBay for charity in support of Age UK South Lakeland*

*Age UK South Lakeland offers help and support to older people living in the rural community of South Lakeland, enabling them to retain their independence and choice. We have a commitment to volunteering and campaigning and providing services to all people aged over 50.