The Weekly Edit

There's something about getting back into routine that brings both challenges and comfort! Between organizing study spaces for Term Two (how is it already Term Two?!) and perfecting our favourite Sunday soup recipe, I've been thinking about how our homes need to flex between structured and relaxed moments.

This week's Design Detective series has me diving deep into pattern psychology, which perfectly matches the creative energy flowing through our studio right now - from subtle grasscloths to bold statement walls, we're seeing pattern confidence grow in such exciting ways! Grab a warm bowl of soup and scroll through for some cozy inspiration and perhaps a family recipe you might want to try.

P.S. Anyone else finding their dining table becomes a sports commentary box during family dinners? The stories just keep getting better!

1. Pattern Placement

Our first Design Detective case about dining table shapes got us all thinking about how design choices influence the way we live in our spaces!

 Next up in our investigation: The Psychology of Pattern Placement - we're uncovering why some rooms absolutely sing with wallpaper while others need to stay serene and simple. Pattern has always been one of design's most powerful tools, capable of transforming a space from ordinary to extraordinary in an instant. But here's where it gets interesting - the same pattern that creates magic in one room can overwhelm another, and we're diving deep into the psychology behind why!

Get ready to explore the evidence with us next week as we uncover the secrets behind successful pattern placement, scale selection, and those crucial 'quiet moments' that every patterned room needs.

2. Studio Stories

While preparing for our next Design Detective case, I found myself lost in our studio's sample library, surrounded by the most beautiful new collections (it's basically my happy place!). There's something magical about how a single pattern can completely transform the story of a room - from subtle grasscloths that add just a whisper of texture, to bold chinoiserie prints that become instant conversation starters.

We're seeing more clients brave enough to embrace pattern in unexpected ways, and I'm here for it! It's particularly exciting to see how pattern confidence grows - often starting with a small powder room or feature wall, then before you know it, they're asking about statement ceilings and wrapped reading nooks. These are the transformations that make my designer heart so happy!

 3. Kitchen Confidential

There's something about shorter days that has me craving the comfort of homemade soup, and my absolute favorite is a recipe that's been perfected over many Sunday afternoons. It started as a simple pumpkin soup but has evolved into what Edwin calls 'Mum's Best Soup' - pumpkin with a hint of coconut cream and just enough spices to make it interesting and completely delicious!

What I love most is how it brings everyone to the dining table, perched on chairs with warm fresh bread and full bowls of soup downloading the best sporting moments of the day (including all the personal glory moments of course!) These family times together often teach us the most about how our homes really work - and why the kitchens deservedly are the heart of the home!



4. Katy's Mini Edit

Loving for 2025

The way food brings family together - especially when there's fresh bread and hot soup involved! Nothing beats those casual conversations around the dining table where sporting achievements (and near-misses!) get better with each retelling now the winter sports season has kicked off.

Design Tip

When planning dining spaces, remember they're not just for meals - they become story-sharing spots, homework stations, and sometimes even sports commentary boxes! Consider comfortable seating that encourages lingering conversations and lighting that can adapt from bright family dinners to cozy evening chats.

Excited About...

Getting back into Term Two routines! There's something satisfying about resetting the home rhythm - sports gear ready by the door, study spaces organized, and the kitchen prepped for those busy weekday breakfasts. After a relaxed holiday pace, I'm actually looking forward to the structure that school terms bring (though ask me again in week 5! 😉