Architecture Around The World: London

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With the 2012 Olympics being hosted in London this year, the city is full of hustle and bustle. While many are in London to watch the Olympics, many are also in London to soak in the city's iconic architecture. Like most cities, London has many different architectural styles. Most of London's structures do not date before the Great Fire of 1666. (ABOVE) Much of London's iconic buildings are in the Gothic style. Westminster bridge is a breathtaking structure, it's simple, yet not plain. Big Ben is the perfect example of the Gothic Revival style, having been completed in 1858. (BELOW 1) The Olympic rings look great hanging from the Tower Bridge. The Tower Bridge is in the Victorian Gothic style completed in 1894. The two towers that hold the bridge together are so beautiful architecturally. (BELOW 2) The British Museum is in the Greek Revival style it was completed in 1759. The museum houses approximately eight million objects. The museum's center dome is considered a great architectural achievement. The dome was designed by Sydney Smirk and completed in 1857. (BELOW 3) Originally built in 1889 as a Gentleman's club, the Hyde Park Court, burnt down in 1899 and then reopened to the public in 1902 as the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel. The five-star hotel is in the Edwardian architectural style and has accommodated many of England's iconic stars. (BELOW 4) The modern Millennium Bridge was completed in 2000. The bridge is the perfect example of modern London architecture. From the bridge, you have a perfect view of Saint Paul's Cathedral. The current structure was designed by noted British architect, Christopher Wren in the English Baroque style. What do you think of London's architecture? 

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A Night In The City: London

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London is a city rich with history, beauty, and glamour. Walking down a street in London, you'll be captivated by the architecture, stylish locals, and attractions. Whether you're a lover of the arts, architecture, fashion, sports, or food, London has something for you. What do you think of this iconic city? 

Where To Eat: The Wolseley

The Wolseley is one of the premier restaurants in London. At The Wolseley one can enjoy Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The design of the restaurant is quite elegant. It has a classic, yet modern, sleek design. Have you been to The Wolseley?

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Where To Stay: The Langham

From the moment you stand in front of The Langham, a five star hotel, you are engulfed by the beautiful architecture. You feel like you're staying in an English castle. The interior has a bit of a retro 60s flair, which contrasts with the more classic exterior. The hotel is located in a prime location, which makes it easy to visit different attractions. 

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The Fashion: Below are looks that can be worn while your out on either a more casual or formal date. For the casual looks, I opted for a sandal, and above the knee dress. For the formal looks, I opted for a heel, and below the knee dress. The looks have that English flair. What do you think? Are you more of a casual or formal look kind of a girl? 

Casual Look: (Left) (1) Madewell Colorcraft Necklace, (2) Boy. by Band of Outsiders Breton Dress, (3) Rochas Borsa Leather Clutch, (4) Marais USA T-Strap Sandals 

Casual Look (Right): (1) Dannijo Lani Necklace, (2) J.Crew Wool Crepe Dress, (3) Loeffler Randall The Lock Clutch, (4) Marais USA T-Strap Haircalf Sandals

Formal Look: (Left) (1) Dannijo Monaco Earrings, (2) Peter Pilotto X Printed Stretch Crepe Dress, (3) Reece Hudson Stendahl Minaudiere, (4) Alejandro Ingelmo Flavia d'Orsay Pumps

Formal Look: (Right) (1) Gabriela Artigas Rough Black Diamond Studs, (2) Preen Line Ivy Paneled Stretch Cotton Drill Dress, (3) Camilla A Land of Wonder Large Zip Clutch, (4) Alexander Wang Emma Ankle Strap Pumps

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Guest Blogging: One Fine Stay

Hello Readers! Today, I am pleased to introduce One Fine Stay. One Fine Stay gives you the chance to stay in someone's place while they're out of town. The concept is that you live like a local and not like a tourist...

Back to Black and White

Pantone’s Colour of the Year has been declared, and they really made a good choice with Emerald Green. But why not go back to the basics? For simple modern design, black and white with a splash of colour is still a timeless classic.

This apartment in South Kensington, London plays well with that idea. The main features, like sofas, chairs, beds and walls are kept in black and white. Then there are the eye-catchers; a vintage red fire bucket, striking blinds, colourful flowers or a headboard in shocking purple.Another example can be found in Central London. The black mantelpiece dominates the living room, while the blue carpet and white walls provide a good contrast.These are just two of more than 1,000 apartments that can be rented with onefinestay, London’s first ‘unhotel’, which also has another office in New York. The idea is simple; guests can stay in someone else’s home while they are not in town, and receive all of the comforts of a hotel. Alongside fancy toiletries and fresh linens, the stay also includes an iPhone for use throughout the stay which is loaded with recommendations on where to go in the area. The idea is to help visitors to London and New York live like a local, and with these homes as an example, let’s look forward to seeing onefinestay around the world!

London's Iconic Big Ben

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Big Ben is the nickname of the clock tower located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. Big Ben is the third tallest freestanding clock tower in the world. When I first saw Big Ben, I was mesmerized by its beautiful details. Simply to call it a clock tower, would do it no justice. Big Ben was completed in 1858 in the Gothic Revival architectural style. (ABOVE) I love this photograph of the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben. At night the tower is beautifully lit, allowing the time to be viewed easily. (BELOW 1) A view of Big Ben during the day. Big Ben stands approximately sixteen stories. (BELOW 2) A close up of the clock shows its intricate details. The clock and dials were designed by Augustus Pugin. The clock dials are set in an iron frame, supporting over 300 pieces of opal glass. There is a clock on each face of the tower. What are your thoughts about London's iconic Big Ben?

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Featured Post: English Country House

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Last Week, I had the honor of being featured on LDV with this post. Here is the post in case you missed it...English country houses have always held a great place in my heart. They feel grand, yet still manage to feel like a home. English country houses were often owned by individuals who also owned a home in London. Until the agricultural depressions of the 1870s, tending to these homes was the prime employment for many rural communities. Generally, those who owned an English country house, owned a large part of land around the home and used some of the land as a means of rental income, this was quite popular until World War I. English country houses have a wide range in architectural styles from Baroque, Palladian, Gothic, etc., these homes were designed to make a statement. (ABOVE) This English country house is located in St. George's Hill Weybridge. It has some influences from Palladian architecture. I like the mansard roof, and clean landscape design. (BELOW 1) Large outdoor spaces are added perks to owning an English country house. I just can't image how long it must take to mow all that grass! (BELOW 2) This English Country house is located in Honeybourne. It has a much less grand feel and more of a quaint charm, it feels more like a farm house. 

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(1) Herve Leger Laser Cut Bandage Dress, (2) Dannijo Adalyn Necklace, (3) Marc by Marc Jacobs Thunderdome Travel Doctor Bag, (4) Dannijo Cecile Earrings, (5) Burberry London Felted Peplum Jacket, (6) Overture Judith Leiber Ombre Concave Side Rectangle Clutch, (7) Jil Sander Music Heavyweight Satin Skirt, (8) Stella McCartney Cat Eye Acetate Sunglasses, (9) Made Her Think Spike Rhinestone Ring, (10) B Brian Atwood Fontanne Iridescent Pumps

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by how those who would come from London to their English country houses would dress. The looks have both of a "city" feel and "English country" feel, and still manage to look and feel current. Fall 2012 is all about making a splash with "wine colored" pieces. The Marc Jacobs doctor bag, is a wonderful wine color and has that "city", "English country" feel. The Burberry peplum jacket feels more "English country" to me. I see it paired with a long flowing skirt or a shorter pencil skirt for a more "city" feel. It's definitely current as the peplum is still making a splash this fall 2012. The Brian Atwood pumps are all "city" to me. Every city girl needs a little shine when at her English country house! Which piece is your favorite? 

(BELOW 3) Lastly, this classic country estate located in Bromyard dates back over 700 years. It's a wonderful English country house that has many acres of land. Architecturally the house feels both like a classic and farm house. What do you think of all the English country houses featured? 

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Hotel Design: The Haymarket Hotel

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I haven't published a "Hotel Design" post for quite some time now, so I figured that London Fashion Week would be the perfect time! The beautiful Haymarket Hotel located in the heart of London's Theater district has the perfect mix of English and international style. In addition, the hotel is close to restaurants and bars as well as national landmarks such as Trafalgar square and the National Gallery. (ABOVE) I love the mix of elegance and simplicity of the hotel's design. The building feels like a classic English hotel.

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(1) The lobby welcomes you in, in this fantastic bright yellow. I love the simplicity of the furnishings. The room does not feel cluttered or overly designed, yet it still feels warm and cozy. 

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(2) The main restaurant is designed to be funky and cool. Bright colors, patterns and shapes fill the space. 

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(3) I like how the guests suites are done in different patterns. The space works well together, but is not matchy-matchy. I love the purple. It's soft and adds a touch of femininity. The armchair looks like a great spot to relax and read a book.

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(4) The indoor pool is one of the many highlights at the hotel. The pool is the ideal place to swim laps or to enjoy some drinks with friends at the adjacent bar. I love the colored light installations. What do you think of the hotel? Have you stayed here before?

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Room Spotlight: Eclectic City Bedroom

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Fashion editor, Kim Hersov's London bedroom was featured in Elle Decor this month. Isn't is just fabulous? Though only a small portion of the bedroom is photographed there is much eye candy. A few favorite pieces of mine include the blue area rug, and standing lamp. I just love the soft blue shades of the rug. Definitely a peaceful piece to come home to from the hustle and bustle of London. The standing lamp is a very cool shape. It breaks your eyes from all the straight lines in the space. The mirrored closet doors reflect the light from the windows. I love bright spaces so the brighter the better! At the foot of the bed Hersov has a stack of books. I'm kind of curious what a fashion editor is in the mood to read these days? What are some of the books by your bedside? What do you think of Hersov's space? Do you have a favorite piece? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Too Hot To Handle: Sneakers

(1) Maison Martin Margiela Metallic Pewter Patent Leather Padded Sneakers, (2) Maison Martin Margiela Metallic Gold Patent Leather Cut-Out Sneakers, (3) Dr. Martens Metallic Gold Nappa Leather Leyton 7-Eye Sneaker Boots, (4) Giuseppe Zanotti Brown Suede Colorblocked London Sneakers, (5) Lanvin Seafoam Green Ribbon-Laced Leather Sneakers, (6) Lanvin Blue Snakeskin Ribbon-Laced Sneakers, (7) Mm6 Maison Martin Margiela Grey Faded Suede Sneakers

Person Of Influence: Christopher Wren

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Christopher Wren was born in England in 1632, he is one of the most highly acclaimed English architects in history. However, before becoming an architect, Wren was a well-known scientist. During his studies, Wren stumbled upon a book entitled “On Architecture” by Vitruvius, that focused on Roman architecture. Wren was particularly inspired by the book and 1663, Wren visited Theatre of Marcellus in Rome. This visit was a turning point for Wren’s career as an architect. After his travels, Wren was asked to design a theatre in Oxford, he based his design on the information he had learned while in Rome. After the Great Fire of 1666, Wren was asked by his childhood friend Charles II, to rebuild 51 churches in London, and so a new a career began. (ABOVE) The Hampton Court Palace was the home of England's King Henry VIII and King William III. The Baroque south front addition was designed by Wren for William III. The beautiful detail and grandeur design is quite impressive. (BELOW) After the Great Fire of 1666, Wren was asked to design a new St. Paul's Cathedral. The cathedral's dome is among the highest in the world. St. Paul's Cathedral is largely considered Wren's greatest work. 

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Create This Look In Your Home:

These pieces are classic and in the Baroque style. The 17th century chair is from Eron Johnson Antiques. The chair has remarkable details. The Austrian beaded pendant is from Elizabeth Pash Antiques. The English cocktail cabinet is from Decoratum. What connection do you seen between these pieces and Wren's work? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.