O Christmas Tree
November 30, 2018
Or, no Christmas tree. While I love a fresh tree I’m never opposed to rethinking the traditional Christmas tree by deconstructing it or reimagining it in simplequietmodern style. A sheet of plywood and a few strings of lights? BOOM! Modern Christmas magic!
Photos and Geneva Vanderzeil’s complete DIY tutorial found here: https://apairandasparediy.com/2015/12/diy-string-light-christmas-tree/
Jackpot
November 25, 2018
I recently ran across an unused gift card in my desk drawer…then another. Then, an online credit memo. Yoo hoo! What I had tucked away for safe keeping I had completely forgotten about. I think I’ll use this “found cash” to jump start my holiday shopping…maybe pick up a little perk for myself in the process. Just in time for Cyber Monday. Check those drawers, people.
A few ideas to kick off the season, top to bottom:
A new glaze, Zinc, on Heath Ceramics Coupe Dessert Bowl courtesy of that unearthed online credit memo. Photo: https://www.heathceramics.com/collections/bowls/products/dessert-bowl-coupe
This Floating Gemstones Necklace Kit from Purl Soho provides enough material to create several great gifts in the month ahead. Photo: https://www.purlsoho.com/floating-gemstones-necklace-kit.html
Also from Purl Soho, Posy, a hand-dyed Superwash Cashmere, Merino and Nylon blend yarn. Gift the skeins to your favorite knitter or whip up a warm cap or scarf in this Winter-busting shade…Sour Gooseberry. Photo: https://www.purlsoho.com/posy-gift-list-gallery.html
If you’re itching to start decking the halls, Trader Joe’s has the best value in town with their mixed evergreen wreaths. Photo: gp
Start them now and you’ll have gorgeous amaryllis in bloom for Christmas. This moss covered bulb is available from Terrain. Photo: https://www.shopterrain.com
Eucharisteo
November 22, 2018
From the Greek meaning thanksgiving…to be thankful. And, on this day let’s do just that, give thanks.
Then, pie.
Photo:gp
Finishing Touches
November 18, 2018
With Thanksgiving dinner under control it might be a good idea to give a little thought to setting the table. Whether you’re hosting a few or a crowd, that table will be full, so keep things simple. No elaborate centerpiece, just a simplequietmodern statement of a neutral palette and a scattering of a few fresh flowers, fruit and fall leaves scavenged from the yard. Maximum style impact…very little effort. Done.
Top to bottom:
While I generally favor Bosc pears for their warm sueded finish, this year I’ll be using Quince. Over the weekend they’ll be transformed into Quince Paste or Membrillo to enjoy later. Photo: gp https://simplequietmodern.com/2012/12/14/small-plates/
For everyday use or any special gathering there is nothing like the classic modern statement of Heath Ceramics Coupe Dinnerware and new Muir Flatware. Photo: https://www.heathceramics.com
I’m a sucker for a natural jute linen napkin. This one in Flax linen shot with silver brings it up a modern notch for the holiday. Photo: https://www.unisonhome.com/new/new-holiday-catalog/etoile-flax-and-silver-napkin.html
I’m still loving pink for Fall so why not the best of the MidCentury floral offerings than pale pink carnations? Just a few in each small container…cup, cocktail glass or vase…scattered about should do it. Photo: gp
Check your yard for just a handful of perfect fallen leaves.This year I’m liking the way the shape color and texture of these oak leaves works tucked in with everything else. Photo:gp
Make a Wish
November 16, 2018
If you were hoping Hans Wegner’s iconic C-24 ” Wishbone” chair was available in more than the 105 options already offered, you’ve gotten your wish. For a limited time Carl Hansen & Sons is offering the C-24 in a special edition in celebration of their 110th birthday. Available in eight colors with a natural paper cord seat, this specially priced limited edition will only be available until the end of this year. So many choices. That didn’t complicate the decision making did it?
Photo top: limited edition C 24 in Oyster Gray https://www.carlhansen.com/en/collection/chairs/ch24/wishbone-chair-oak-black-natur/variant/701
Photo bottom: http://remash.tumblr.com/post/179794332769/two-pavillions-tom-robertson-architects-photos
Shoulda Woulda Coulda
November 13, 2018
I should have… I would have…I could have purchased this navy Sherpa jacket last year. Then I’d have been ready for this early November blast of ice and snow. Really? The trees are still full of leaves and many haven’t even begun to turn. Now it’s back to square one…it’s cold…and Jaxon wants to go for a walk. Lesson learned.
Photos: Need Supply Co.
Crisis Averted
November 11, 2018
Before serving up a new recipe to your guests this Thanksgiving it might be a good idea to give it a test run or two. A fast or slow oven, even an ingredient omission or misprint, can spell disaster. Working out the kinks beforehand will guarantee success. Less than two weeks left…better get on it.
Top to bottom:
Follow the directions on any package of fresh cranberries and add a bit of fresh or candied ginger to the mix.
Once you’ve mastered Gougere you’ll be making them any time there’s a gathering and some Champagne. https://simplequietmodern.com/?s=gougere
Once we started roasting them, Brussels Sprouts became everyone’s favorite side. A little Bacon, a drizzle of walnut oil couldn’t hurt either. https://simplequietmodern.com/?s=Roasted+Brussels
Jackfruit “crab-less” crab cakes…another new ” go to” appetizer. https://simplequietmodern.com/?s=JackFruit
Roasting off a Hubbard squash provides a superior result over canned pumpkin if you’re in the mood for pie. https://simplequietmodern.com/?s=Hubbard+squash+pie
photos: gp
In The Dark
November 9, 2018
There’s always a little extra illumination needed once Daylight Saving Time has us “falling back” into Autumn darkness. Recent upgrades to Peter Bristol’s Thin Task Lamp provide us with even more design options when using this simplequietmodern favorite to shine a little needed light on things. Still providing a minimalist profile while providing fully articulated warm white LED illumination, the Thin Task Lamp is now available in a wall mount. Two sizes, three finishes, hardwire or plug- in options and matching toggle or rotary switch and dimmer will have your needs covered no matter your desired application.
Photos: http://www.juniper-design.com/products/thin-task-lamp-wall-mount/
Just the ticket…
November 5, 2018
for a relaxing sit or restful sleep. The George Nelson Daybed, designed in 1950 is available once again. Produced by Herman Miller, it is lean minimalist seating by day, firm comfortable bed by night. Perfect for that first apartment, a home office/guest room or that modern weekend cabin. My favorite incarnation is as shown in walnut. A light ash finish, brushed or polished metal hairpin legs and dozens of approved Herman Miller Textiles are available options.
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