Don’t Forget
May 8, 2022
Call your Mother. Happy Mother’s Day.
photo:gp
And Not A Minute Too Soon
April 4, 2022
Ready to be put into use immediately is the Summer Seasonal Collection from Heath Ceramics. With Easter right around the corner it seems like a natural to get your order in now. This collection is available now but is sure to sell out quickly. I’m thinking the yellow pieces might be a great way to brighten the days while we’re waiting for Summer to finally arrive.
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A bit of forced rye grass with the addition of a cracked eggshell whispers Easter.
The Classic Heath Modern Cup in Sunflower
A bunch of pink hyacinths would feel right at home in that tall modern cup. And who wouldn’t love to receive the both as a gift?
Sunnyside Tea Towels will make cleaning up after Easter brunch a pleasure.
What’s Easter without the classic yellow Peep?
The Sunflower glaze on the classic Heath Budvase.
All Roads Grid napkins in Fuschia are part of the Heath Summer Seasonal Collection. These will surely get a workout from Easter through Labor Day.
Pink and Yellow. Something tells me with the way the last two years have been it’s a combination we might just be needing right about now.
Heath Plaza Dessert bowls and Sunnyside Napkins, also part of the Summer Seasonal Collection.
A big vase of forced Forsythia brings springtime right in to the table. It’s hard to beat.
All Heath Summer Seasonal photos by Heath Ceramics.
All other photos: gp
If it’s March,
February 28, 2022
then it’s time for Daffodils. There is no better way to pull us through to Spring than with a bunch or two of the most perfect yellow ever. Their familiar cheerful faces and gentle fragrance just can’t help to lift us up, especially now. Rising prices, foreign invasions, the continuing pandemic and the near end of a brutal Winter have us in need of a little something something. A bunch or two of daffodils are just the ticket even if the price is double what is was last year. While you’re at it, it would be a lovely gesture to pick up a few extra bunches and pass the sunshine around. The rewards are sure to come back to you ten fold. If you’d like to use the Daffodil as inspiration, you might try a few from the selections below from the simplequietmodern archives.
Bunches of cut Daffs. If it’s March that means that January and February are in the rear view mirror.
This particular Knoll pattern features three colors familiar to March… the yellow, gray and white.
Even lunch and dinner can feature a little sunshine. This pickled blend of cauliflower, onions and yellow bell peppers will certainly liven things up with very little effort.
Maybe a permanent swath of yellow twig dogwood to enjoy from every window, especially when rising from a blanket of snow.
Bright second fiddle, a bunch or two of forced Forsythia branches, sourced locally, online or free from a neighbors yard.
Bright ceramic field tile will have you waking up to sunshine every day, no matter what.
daffodil photo: gp
Shifting Focus
February 2, 2022
From biting bitter cold to major snowstorms, we are sure to be glad that January is behind us. Now’s a good time to shift our focus to other beautiful forms of Winter White that aren’t as challenging. From a simple vase of forced spring branches to dreaming about a a coveted new addition to your home, a little distraction isn’t out of order as we try to keep warm until the thaw.
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For me, a fresh dump of snow is pretty for about 10 minutes. That’s it.
A bunch of white fringed tulips generally take the edge off all of that cold white stuff.
Planning ahead certainly guarantees some additional garden interest. This Blonde Ambition grass is certainly holding it’s own.
What do you mean you haven’t potted up that Amaryllis you received as a Christmas Gift? Get on it.
I know. Put it on your want list now. One large Saarinen dining table…six Saarinen Executive Chairs. You can’t go wrong with white on white, tone on tone. Photo: Knoll
Check that pantry and you might find the few ingredients needed to whip up a batch of this no-churn Bourbon Ice Cream.
Poke around the yard (or neighborhood)with a pair of pruners in your pocket. You could come home with a few flowering branches to force into bloom.
Too afraid to add that dining table to your want list? How ’bout a more do-able side table? photo: Knoll
I can never have enough white tulips to pull me through Winter. This white Parrot variety is a particular favorite.
If you’re going to be stuck inside bingeing movies, how great would it be to do it stretched out on this classic Florence Knoll sofa dressed in creamy upholstery?
Shoveling is horrible. Period. But, a hot soak or scrub down afterword with some Birch scented bath salts? Lovely.
Winter White Cashmere. Now, that’ll keep you cozy till spring. Photo: Naadam
Mixed Emotions
December 22, 2021
While I hate the coming of the first day of Winter, I do love what follows. Today marks the day of the year with the least amount of daylight…the Winter Solstice. Good news is that tomorrow will be another story. From this point on, each day will have an increased amount of daylight leading us directly to Spring. And, that my friends is worth celebrating. Tradition would have us festooning the place with evergreens, lighting candles in doors and building a roaring fire outdoors and gathering together to embrace hope within the darkness. A good idea once again while the newest Covid variant threatens to squash our holiday plans.
From the top:
A simple votive candle placed in a bubbled glass vase casts a magnified and magical glow.
If you are lucky enough to find my absolute favorites, white tulips, buy them. There is nothing else like them to draw our thoughts to Spring. White Fringed and Parrot varieties are particularly special.
I do not need an excuse like the Winter Solstice to stoke up a bonfire, but it doesn’t hurt.
You might take a modern turn at using a supermarket Poinsettia as a cut flower. White for the Solstice would be my choice. Photo: Gardenista
A hearty warming dish like this Farro Porcini Risotto Comes together quickly and would be a fitting addition to the celebration. I added a little shortcut to this already simple recipe from Martha Stewart, https://www.marthastewart.com/312975/farro-and-porcini-risotto, by using 1/2 jar of Trader Joe’s Pesto Alla Genovese with the parsley and toasted walnuts and an additional splash of olive oil.
Doing appropriate double duty, this white Helebore variety will play nicely with your other seasonal decorations before being planted outdoors to grace the garden with the season’s first blooms next year.
The perfect finish to any Winter gathering might just be a classic Brandy Stinger… equal parts Brandy and white Creme de Menthe. In this case, on the rocks. Cheers!
except where noted all photos: gp
Deck Those Halls
December 15, 2021
Even if you’re still keeping a low profile during our second Covid Christmas, it’s important for our over all well being to keep those holiday traditions alive. Now’s the time to deck those halls and get into the spirit in earnest. Whatever direction you choose, do something…a string of lights…a vase of seasonal branches…a bowl of ornaments. The simplest modern touch can still say Merry Christmas.
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A sheet of plywood, a string of lights and a few screws. Boom! My absolute favorite Christmas tree alternative. If you don’t have the space for a fresh tree, then this is the simplequietmodern next best thing. Photo: https://apairandasparediy.com/2015/12/diy-string-light-christmas-tree/
This wreath of simply assorted cones makes a lovely modern yet natural statement that could take you from Thanksgiving to the Spring thaw. photo: https://www.shopterrain.com/
Gettin’ groovy with a modern Christmas color scheme? These brightly colored glass ornaments can help inspire a vintage Christmas look be it the 50’s , 60’s or 70’s. https://www.shopterrain.com/
A quick edit from a box of vintage mid-century ornaments will add some nostalgic modern charm. photo: gp
Like a Bertoia sculpture fabricated on a dime. These large 60’s looking stars are simply a handful of bamboo skewers stuck into a Styrofoam ball with the quickest spritz of gold paint. You could knock out a dozen of them and make a simplequitmodern holiday statement for just a few bucks. photo: gp
Nothing says simple and Christmas like an unadorned Magnolia wreath. https://www.shopterrain.com/
If you have vases to fill, fill them simply and lavishly with the selection of one simple material. In this case, Ilex. These striking branches studded with bright red berries arranged in clear glass cylinders will certainly inject Christmas cheer into any modern interior. Photo: gp
More holiday color play, this time in a 60’s blue-green direction. I remember as a kid thinking this look was pretty swanky. More solid color glass ornaments from https://www.shopterrain.com/ , the assorted vintage ornaments photo: gp
Look around. A big box of beautiful pine cones can be had for free if you know where to look. In my case it’s right outside my door. And, if the holidays have me running behind, a quick forage will fill multiple bowls, providing a simple natural beauty that only Mother Nature can provide. photo: gp
Better Get On It
November 13, 2021
With all of the talk about supply chain and shipping issues, now might just be the perfect time to get that Christmas shopping out of the way. Taking advantage of all of your online options will not only get the job done, there will be no standing in line waiting for the next cashier available to assist you. Early Black Friday pricing and free shipping only sweeten the deal. I gathered here a few of my simplequietmodern favorites for this season. So, pull out that credit card, mix yourself a festive cocktail, put your feet up and start shopping.
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If a simple Brandy Stinger on the Rocks doesn’t put you in the Christmas shopping mood…what will?
A simplequietmodern favorite is the Heath Ceramics Tall Modern Cup. In the 2021 Winter Seasonal collection it’s offered in Red Plum and Currant. When it’s not full of coffee, chai or hot chocolate, there isn’t a better container for a handful of seasonal blooms. photo: https://www.heathceramics.com/collections/heath-holiday
Perfect for anyone still bingeing the weekend away watching Netflix, a gorgeous velvet pillow from Knoll Textiles to get cozy with. This one is in Arezzo in colorway: Dolce. Photo: https://www.knoll.com/product/pillows-by-knolltextiles-shop?p=TP-K14421_1218
What’s not to love about a Baroque pearl? Even better in this modern treatment…a simple gold filled ball chain threaded through a large hole by Ana Mari Ortega. And, if you’re feeling it, go with two to be worn together or threading both chains through both pearls. Photo: https://www.anamariortega.com/collections/fun-jewelry-necklaces
If you have the time, snagging a couple of skeins of Purl Soho’s Cashmere Tend and whipping up a luxurious scarf may be just the ticket for someone on your list. Or, gift the yarn itself and let them create their own. Added bonus, the Merino wool, Cashmere and nylon blend is washable and available in 18 colors. Photo:https://www.purlsoho.com/cashmere-tend.html
No one does a fragrance candle like Diptyque Paris. This limited edition Sapin captures just what this holiday season needs…Pine and a hint of wood smoke. Perfect. photo: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/diptyque-sapin-candle-limited-edition
Also from Heath Ceramics Winter Seasonal Collection is this square tray in Chili. Add a few homemade Bourbon Balls to gild the lily. Photo: https://www.heathceramics.com/collections/heath-holiday Recipe for the Bourbon Balls, https://simplequietmodern.com/?s=bourbon+balls
People are definitely ready to celebrate the season…I’ve already seen lights glowing and tree lots stocked and open for business. I personally know the holidays have kicked in when I see these mixed evergreen wreaths available and my Trader Joes. You might pick up a few and surprise some friends, family or neighbors. The last year hasn’t been kind to any of us so that simple act of beauty might just make someone’s day. Photo: gp
If someone on your list just loves a crispy fried egg… either on a burger, topping a salad or to start the day … this is the gift for them. From Lodge Cast Iron, a 6.5″ seasoned cast iron skillet. Photo: https://www.lodgecastiron.com/product/round-cast-iron-classic-skillet?sku=L3SK3 Eggs photo: gp
I couldn’t leave out the classic Bud Vase, again from Heath Ceramics Winter Seasonal Collection, in Cranberry. A few twigs of Tallow berry and you’ve got a simple holiday statement that will take your through to the New Year. Photo: https://www.heathceramics.com/collections/heath-holiday Tallow berry photo: gp
And, just like that…
October 4, 2021
it’s feeling like Fall. Bright foliage changes to lift our mood set against unpredictable gray skies. Lot’s of inspiration to be had around every corner as we prepare again to move indoors. I recently wove a box of manzanita wood into this sizable assembly that would be as striking in the garden as over this vintage Florence Knoll credenza from 1948. Or, it could be used in place of a large painting or photograph, hung on a wall covered in Grasscloth for additional drama and texture. I’m loving it so much I may just need to spend some time gathering branching for another.
from the top: first 2 photos: gp, Credenza photo: via https://plastolux.tumblr.com/ Grasscloth photo: https://www.yorkwallcoverings.com/collections/grasscloth-wallpaper/products/ywd-b65-multi-grass-wallpape
I’m Back
August 27, 2021
Clearly, the last year and a half have been challenging for all of us. Tech issues being the last to be tackled has left me and simplequietmodern basically MIA. But, now we’re back. And, glad to be back to be sure. Before we attempt to catch up, I think a random selection of images from past posts will remind us of where we’ve been and help me focus more clearly on where we’ll go from here. Thank you for checking in and thanks in advance for your patience should we encounter a hiccup or two as we come back up to speed.
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It’s hard to believe but Baby Hambone Jaxon is celebrating his ninth birthday. Even with Covid you know there will be treats.
If you’re still working from home you might want to consider some appropriate task lighting. This Muuto Tip lamp through Knoll could fit the bill. Photo:Knoll
And no… I still have not narrowed down the candidates for the reupholstering of this vintage Saarinen Executive Lounge chair.
You don’t think you need it until you do. The Landscaper’s Hori Hori Photo: Terrain
My first generation Herman Miller Aeron chair is in need of a tune up. Easier said than done. Photo: Herman Miller
I had the opportunity to install this Billow wallcovering from Knoll on a residential project. Yes, slowly some beautiful things were getting done. Photo: Knoll
Just as the pandemic hit I had treated myself to a pair of Vivobarefoot Gobi II Desert Boots. What can I say? I love a desert boot. Two thumbs up. Photo: Vivobarefoot
My favorite design inspiration…vintage Florence Knoll Photo: Knoll
Still looking great even after a twister last summer tore the yard up good. This climbing hydrangea hides a cluster of electrical meters while the tall clipped yew hedge does the same for the furnace and A/C.
Simple summer pleasures. What’s better in August than local Midwest Glads…especially in white.
Before Cauliflower Pizza Crust…this Southern Chow Chow. The perfect blend of pickled cauliflower, onions and yellow peppers brightened with Turmeric.
As the shadows grow longer a simple linen covered daybed could be just the spot to kick back and take a nap. Photo: Remodelista
Cordyline Red Star… Again, the seasonal selection to fill my modern low bowl planters after my search for Artichokes turned up zip.
Yes you can! Make yourself some homemade vanilla ice cream. Just a few ingredients and no ice cream maker needed.
Unless noted, all photos by GP
I didn’t include links here, but if you use the search bar at the top of the page you will be taken to the original post.
It’s Time People
June 8, 2020
Time for little acts of kindness…simple acts of beauty. They won’t break the bank and the rewards will come back to you tenfold. For a friend, a neighbor or even to elevate your desk if you’re conducting Zoom meetings from home, these seasonal white peonies make quite the simplequietmodern statement. Their gentle fragrance? Well…like the little shot in the arm your actions will give to your local economy…an added bonus.
photos:gp
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