New Year´s resolutions – to be remembered all year round!

New Year´s resolutions – to be remembered all year round!

New-Years-Resolutions---to-be-remembered-all-year-round-by-my-home-and-yours-blog

New Years Resolutions – to be remembered all year round!

We are half way through January, the new year resolutions, well they might not be forgotten, but we must admit that our daily routines have caught up with us by now. 

So, wouldn´t it be good to have a reminder of your goals for this year on your desk or well visible on your wall? 

Be it at home or in the office, be it a personalized list or message, or a motivational and inspirational quote, having them present and visible can help you keep on track. 

Have a look through these and many more designs, or as I said, have your own text printed. Remember, they can be printed on fabric to be framed or on a quality cotton pillow, available on 9 beautiful decorative colors. 

Get one for your self or gift them! The recipient will love it and your message  will be present day by day! 

why-not-now-motivational-quotes-for-the-office-by-my-home-and-yours p

Why not now – go for it today!

Life-quote as new years resolution hand printed on quality cushion in vintage hipster style by my home and yours

Life isn´t about waiting for the storm to pass. It´s about learning to dance in the rain.

happiness-is-a-choice-hand printed quote cushion by my home and yours

Happiness is a choice

your-own-new-years-resolution-hand-printed-reminder-by-my-home-and-yours

Your personal message hand printed on fabric to be framed!

Limits-are-for-those-who-need-them-motivational-quote-for-work-and-office-by-my-home-and-yours p

Limits are for those who need them!

believe-you-can-and-you-are-half-way-there-fabric-art-print-by-my-home-and-yours-as-motivation-for-work-and-office-pw

Believe you can and you are halfway there.

Do what makes you happy-motivational-and-inspirational-quotes-by-my-home-and-yours p

Do what makes you happy

365-days-365 new beginings by my home and yours

365 new days. 365 new beginnings.

your-personal-message-hand-printed-in-vintage-style-on-a-quality-cotton-cushion

Your personal message hand printed on a quality cotton cushion, available in 9 colors!

focus-on-the-solution-and-not-the-problem-work-and-office-motivational-quote-by-my-home-and-yours

Focus on the solution – not the problem.

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Claire Goble – award winning illustrator and full time mom

Claire Goble – award winning illustrator and full time mom

Claire-Goble-award winning-illustrator-and-full-time-mom-interview-by-My-Home-and-Yours-blog

This week I´d love to present to you award winning London based illustrator, animator and designer, Claire Goble, who I am not only admiring, but I am also honored to call a friend! 

Her work has marked British kids television during the past 15 years and since she returned a few years ago to her illustration roots, her children´s picture books don´t stop winning awards and are translated to Japanese, Korean, Russian and many European languages!

In the following interview I asked her apart from her work about the changes she had to experience related to her work since she became a mother herself a few years ago:

Claire Goble award winning illustrator in interview by My Home and Yours blog

Describe in short, what you do: 

I’ve just finished illustrating a series of non-fiction children’s books for Thames & Hudson. ‘Why is Art full of naked people?’ and ‘Why don’t fish drown?’ are in shops now. The third book, covering science and the universe, will be published this August. I’m also writing and illustrating my first picture book ‘There’s A Monster In the House’ which is currently out for submission at major publishers.

Why is art full of naked people illustrated by Claire Goble
Why don´t fish drown illustrated by Claire Goble
Why is art full of naked people illustrated by Claire Goble
Why don´t fish drown illustrated by Claire Goble

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE THAT? 

You may recognise some of my work if you have watched children’s television over the past 15+ years. I was lead designer on BAFTA award winning show Dick and Dom in da Bungalow and have designed, animated and illustrated for CBBCCBeebies and Nickelodeon. Now I am returning to my illustration and storytelling roots to make more permanent works for children.

Dick & Dom in da Bungalow animation by Claire Goble

YOU HAVE A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE DAUGTHER, HOW DOES SHE INSPIRE YOU IN YOUR WORK? 

I have wanted to create picture books for a very long time, long before I was a mum, so this is not something that was born from motherhood. But I guess being immersed in a 3 year olds world is informing and influencing me all the time. I see the world through her eyes, and as a critic, I see what works well. We are immersed in a world of fun, exploration, silliness and colour and that shines through in my work.

there is a monster in the house illustrated by Claire Goble

YOU think that being a mom is still a taboo when we (working mums) talk about our career and work in general? are we actually allowed to mention this fact? 

Ha, I found this the most difficult question to answer… break the taboo! I actually find it the other way round. I have been a stay at home mum for over three years, trying to juggle work in the gaps between looking after my daughter full time. I think the taboo is choosing to stay at home to look after children. People generally aren’t interested and don’t see the value in that, which is a real shame.

Claire Goble illustrator on womans day

Does beeing a mom make you a better illustrator?

It doesn’t make me a better illustrator but it definitely makes me a better worker and more efficient with my time! I used to faff around for hours whilst working on projects. Now every working minute is precious. I am actually amazed at how much I can get done in a few hours. I have to hit the ground running and create. No more procrastinating or online window shopping.

there is a monster in the house illustrated by Claire Goble

Which has been you favorit illustration/animation project and why?

It has to be illustrating ´Why is art full of naked people?´ It was my first illustration comission and an introduction into the world of publishing. I worked very closely with Anna Perotti who is a good friend and the designer of the book. We have a great working relationship and enjoyed discussing concepts for the spreads. Our ideas fell into place easily. It was a sharp learning curve too and very challenging at times as I learnt about the print and production process and working in a different industry. Publishers work very differently to broadcasters! Seeing `Why is art…?´ in the Tate Modern bookshop, co-editions on sale globally and hearing that it has won awards both here and abroad has been an absolute high.

Why is art full of naked people illustrated by Claire Goble__

where do you get your inspiration from and what inspires you most?

I live in London and there is inspiration everywhere. We make sure to do all of the usual things; galleries, museums, film, theatre, dance. At the moment I’m obviously obsessed with children’s picture books. There are so many people making beautiful picture books – it’s a great motivation and inspiration. My friends and contemporaries are also hugely inspirational, especially my mum friends who are powerhouses, creating, making and bringing new ideas to life whilst raising children. I’m a huge comedy fan and will try and see stand up comedy whenever I get the chance. My work is often humorous and I love it when people laugh at my work – it is a spontaneous and truly genuine reaction.

Claire Goble robot illustration

where do you want to go next?

My main aim is to write and illustrate beautiful picture books, but my work is multifaceted. I’m keen to develop my illustration across a broad range of mediums and I love collaborating with other creatives. In the pipeline is an exciting opportunity to work with a friend who is launching her own children’s wear range. Seeing children running around wearing my illustrations, now that would be marvelous!

Claire Goble illustrator coming up next

Thank you so much Claire for your precious time for the interview and your inspiring thoughts!

Want to know more about Claire and her work? Check her out on her web page: www.clairegoble.com and get one of her books now! They are amazing!

For my last trip to London I printed one of her illustrations on the reverse of the cushion for her daughter and I think it looks so special like this!

Claire Goble illustration hand printed cushion by my home and yours p

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Valentine´s most personal and long lasting gift ideas!

Valentine´s most personal and long lasting gift ideas!

valentines-most-personal-and-long-lasting-gift-ideas

Valentine´s most personal and long lasting gift ideas!

Love is in the air! Just a few more days to go till Valentine´s day!

Curious facts about this special celebration around the globe:

japanese valentines day custom

In JAPAN, a chocolate manufacturer introduced the holiday for the first time in 1936, when it ran an advertisement aimed at foreigners. Other campaigns followed and popularized the custom.

However in Japan only women give chocolates to men! The origin of this curious custom originates from a translation error during the initial campaigns!

  • In SOUTH KOREA , women give chocolate to men on February 14, and men give white chocolate to women on March 14 (White Day). On April 14 (Black Day), those who did not receive anything on February 14 or March 14 go to a restaurant to eat black noodles and lament their ‘single life’. 
  • SINGAPOREANS are supposed to be the biggest spenders on Valentine’s Day: between 100-500$/person!
  • In the UK over 25 million cards are being sent for Valentines!
corean valentines day customs

Think about all the flowers and cards being binned a few days later, the Kilos being gained by all the tones of chocolates being consumed during this celebration will be most likely to last longer!

However what about a really long lasting gift that expresses your love day after day?

Choose your favorite quote or have your own personal message printed on a quality cushion or fabric art print which will speak for it self!

your own personal love message on a quality cushion hand printed and vintage style by My Home and yours
custom gay valentines gift vintage
original valentine love message gift handprinted on fabric to be framed by My Home and Yours
your-text-on-a-handprinted-cushion-with-dotted-graphic-hand-printed
your text here hand printed on fabric to be framed
your personal love message handprinted on a quality cushion with leave wreath graphics
personal valentines gift with your own message in a vintage frame
personalized-pillow-with-your-own-message-and-wreath-by-my-home-and-yours
cute heart shaped bespoke cushion print with your personal love declaration

You need a hand with some romantic text inspiration? Just have a look here:

my-home-and-yours-wedding-decor-and-gifts-06w
you make me happy in a way noone else can pillow hand printed by My Home and Yours
love you me too cloud art prints hand printed on fabric
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MyHomeAndYours?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=20330813
i love you to the moon and back fabric art print valentines gift
valentines love quote gift hand printed by Anika Schmitt
my-home-and-yours-wedding-decor-and-gifts-02w
love quote art gift handprinted on fabric by My Home and Yours
what I like most about my home is those who I share it with fabric art print
every love story is beautiful but ours is my favorite fabric art print love gift

You want to have something more personal with your names and the date you met or married?

Well here you have some more ideas:

elegant mr and mrs throw pillows hand printed on quality cushions that can be customzed with names and date
custom valentines love gift with names of the couple and wedding date hand printed
Mr and Mrs hipster style cushion set grey and white vintage hand print can be personalized
grey custom name and date vintage style cushion with plant wreath hand printed
custom anniversary gift name of the couple and wedding date

In any case, let your special one know how big your love is!

May be we can´t go just as big as this giant billboard, but there are plenty of standard sizes and colors  to choose from to let your special Valentine know how big your love is!

Valentines billboard

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Unique and very personal christmas gifts!

Unique and very personal christmas gifts!

Hand printed custom cushions, unique and personal christmas gifts

Unique and very personal christmas gifts!

Before language was written or money minted, humans exchanged gifts. Gift giving is probably one of the oldest and most basic human behaviors. The act of giving is a powerful act of communication. It enhances and even changes relationships between us and others.

With Christmas approaching fast, the gifting season soon will be reaching it´s yearly climax! 

But expectations of finding the right little (or bigger) something, which will really find appreciation is getting more complicated, as mass produced goods struggle to reach the heart of its recipients and neither do they show that you really care for them. 

Giving a handcrafted gift to the contrary speaks volumes about the giver. It says that they care about finer things, and that they took the time to choose the gift carefully. 

There is a big difference between wrapping a unique handmade gift or simply handing over a gift card.

Now if you give a gift that actually has been made only and exclusively for it´s recipient, using even your own words, or adding names and dates, you really can make sure that this will turn into the most heart warming gift under the Christmas tree! 

definition of happiness pillow with custom names

Remember all My Home and Yours can be customized, however we have many many designs directed to all kinds of recipients, be it grandma, a new born or your big love, which are already prepared for your name or/and date to be inserted.

And exactly on these very special custom gifts we decided to give you an unique discount for your Christmas shopping! Yeah!!!

The offer is valid for a limited time only! (until 6.12.17) So don´t wait for a last minute gift, but check out which styles are the ones for you! Find the full collection here:

GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS:

unique – hand PRINTED –personalised

 

MY HOME AND YOURS CUSTOM FAMILY COLLECTION
best friend quote gift custom cushion
family names custom cushion
family name custom cushion
happiness quote gift family love custom cushion

“Every person has their own definition of happiness. (your names) & you are mine.”

Gifts that the whole family will love!

MY HOME AND YOURS CUSTOM LOVE COLLECTION
love gift custom cushion with ynames of the couple and wedding date
names of the couple and wedding date custom cushion
names of the couple date and monogram custom cushion
happiness quote gift family love custom cushion

Be it for you or your partner or for your parents, these cushion covers with names and date are:

The perfect gift to show your love!

MY HOME AND YOURS CUSTOM KIDS COLLECTION
custom kids name cushion
custom message cushion in high quality
custom kids name and monogram custom cushion
unicorn quote cushion with your own name

A new member in your or your friends family? With out a doubt with these cushions covers your message and intentions will be present day by day.

Kids just love to see their name

baby girls name initial and birth date cushion with wreath
boys custom name cushion with quote car illustration and age
name cushion with tent and arrow ideal kids gift
name and super hero quote cushion for boys room
boys name cushion with balloon and monogram
monogram and kids name custom cushion
kids monogram and name personalised pillow
girls name cushion beautiful and elegant
MY HOME AND YOURS CUSTOM YOUR TEXT HERE COLLECTION
custom message cushion with cloud graphics
custom message cushion in high quality
your text here custom cushion
own quote cushion with cute decor

And what about your very own words with some beautiful graphics to frame them?

Nothing can be more personal then your own message

my own text printed on a quality cushion with wreath graphic decor
personalised frase or song lyrics on a pillow
hipster vintage frame custom quote pillow
your personal love message in a heart hand printed on a quality cushion
your text here cushion cover hand printed with vintage tecnique
custom text cushion vintage style with bears ideal for gays
personalised text pillow printed with love
custom text cushion with wreath illustration

And remember the SPECIAL OFFER is only on until the 6.December!

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Motivation at work -10 Tips that really work

Motivation at work -10 Tips that really work

motivation at work 10 tips that really work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Monday Mornings are never easier, but some are harder then others. What we need is a good plan for the week, or better a good routine to guide us through the whole month!

For you I went through tones of research, articles & talks and picked out the best.

Everyone can GET MOTIVATED at work. Try these ten tips today! 😉

do what makes you happy - smile - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

No matter if you force it or if you actually feel in a good mood, studies have show that smiling reduces stress and anxiety levels, which again helps you feel better about the work you need to get done.

success is a series of small wins - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Sitting in an open expansive posture can release testosterone, which increases your feeling of power and your tolerance for risk, while you settle down for work.

365 new days 365 new beginnings - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

A new day, a new part of the project, …

Research has show that splitting projects into small measurable tasks and treating each one as a new challenge can give you each time a fresh perspective and improve motivation.

optimism is the foundation of courage - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Get aware of what slows you down or what scares you and choose the right quote to tackle it. Place it visibly on your desk and your eyes will pass over it again and again, this will help your brain to get the message.

Search right here for your personal motivational quote:

believe you can and you are half way there - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Studies have shown that exposure of the color green helps us to feel happier, less tired and more motivated. Go out to the park for a walk, get a desk plant or change the color of the picture frame of your desk. 

limits are for those who need them - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Work for 50 minutes and then take a 10 minute break to refocus. Streching your body and breathing some fresh air helps oxygen reach your brain better, this will reduce fatigue levels and increase energy.

mistakes are proof that you are trying - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Each morning choose 3 tasks you want to achieve this day and make sure you get them done. Set realistic goals and congratulate yourself for having achieved them, this will motivate you for the next task! And please don´t compare yourself to others! Be kind to yourself!

why not now - go for it today - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Most of our desks are filled up with piles of work to get done, but also a lot of clutter! Get rid of as much as you can and keep it clean. You will be surprised, how your brain will appreciate this and rewards you with more energy and more creativity! In an upcoming post I´ll give you more detailed ideas about rearranging and redecorating your work space, so watch out for the coming post.

be wacky be silly be random as life is too short to be cool - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Don´t over work and take time for yourself & your family! Set time aside to do one of your favorite things every day, even sometimes you are left only with a few minutes, then watch the stars and remind your self of all the good that happens to you.

stars can´t shine without darkness - tips for motivation at work by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

Watch this Ted talk by Arianna Huffington about  how sleep can transform Your Life, One Night at a Time

For more inspiration, ideas, links to related videos and books

pls click here and visit my new

 

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Claire-Goble-awardwinning-illustrator-and-full-time-mom-interview-by-My-Home-and-Yours-blog_s
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say-it-with-your-own-words

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How did it all start? The story of MH&Y

How did it all start? The story of MH&Y

how did it start? the story of mh&y by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers!

I´m Anika Schmitt, born in Munich Bavaria. As a successful international fashion designer, I dedicated the past 20 years solely to the world of fashion (www.anikaschmitt.com). Since the birth of our little girl, however I decided to slow down the paste of work related traveling and opted for a change, allowing my self to start out a new project: My Home & Yours. 

my home and yours horizontal white and black logo

Moved by this change we transformed part of our house, located in a small village on the Basque coast, into a studio & workshop. (soon I´ll post some pictures of it so you can see where My Home & Yours is from)

It´s from here where I now create my home decor and gifts with great love and care, sending them out all over the world, to fill the hearts and homes with their special and personalized messages. 

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

The idea began when I was desperately searching for a gift for a dear friend who was about to get married. I wanted this gift to show how special she is for me and it should remind the couple of their love on a daily basis. It should be something personal and unique, as well as functional. In short, so many things that it was difficult to fit them into a single gift. So I decided to create it myself. 

wedding gift personalized cushions all started out with for my home and yours

Soon after I had to find something special for a newborn …. 

custom name new born cushions for a special friend
friends housewarming gift - quote cushions

a house warming …

a birthday …. 

birthday gift for a friend - custom quote cushions
gift for a comunion - custoom name cushions and quote

a comunion …

a christening …. 

custom name christening gift - hand printed fabric art print

all special moments! However the most original I have been asked for, without a doubt has been a proposal.

As it was a bespoke order I obviously keep total silence about its details! However can you imagine to have this message forever immortalized? I think it is so romantic!

One thing is for sure, each occasion has its own personalized phrase. So remember, all of my already created designs can be personalized for you, with names, dates, lyrics or whatever you want. And if none of them matches your idea, you can always send me your own text and I´ll make sure that your personal message will touch the heart of whoever you want.

For these totally personalized gifts you can choose from a whole collection of “YOUR TEXT HERE” products which can be adjusted just what you have been looking for 😉 No matter if you decide for text only, than you can choose from 6 different type faces, or you might want to incorporate your text within some special graphic design frame, here you´ll find what matches your idea. 

This your text here collection has been designed to transmit all your personal messages

My designs combine vintage, retro, rustic, Boho or Hipster in a natural and elegant way.

Each piece is hand-printed with a special technique that allows the fabric 

texture to shine through giving it an aging vintage look. This asures that not 

one piece will turn out exactly the same. So you will get a UNIQUE piece!

Each piece is hand-printed with a special technique that allows the fabric texture to shine through giving it an aging vintage look

Let me help your message to be present day by day in a beautiful detail and make sure your gift will captivate all of your recipients through this original way of transmitting a feeling.

check out the collection now

 

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say it with your own words my home and yours your text here collection

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Insider tips about London & its Design world you would never have heard about but don´t want to have missed; by Tess O´leary – Architect & Luxury Jewelry designer

Insider tips about London & its Design world you would never have heard about but don´t want to have missed; by Tess O´leary – Architect & Luxury Jewelry designer

Insider London - Inspirations by Tess O´leary - by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers!

Insider tips about London & it´s Design world you would never have heard about but don´t want to have missed

 

Tess O´leary – Architect & Luxury Jewelry designer

20 years have passed now since I finished my Design Degree in London, where I have met Tess O´leary. I actually lived, studied and worked in this cosmopolitan City for almost 7 years. I loved its totally crazy, free and open creative spirit, but surviving on student budged was a truly tough target!

And with this anniversary in mind, I recently went back to catch up with friends and the changes that the city has gone through in the recent years. For me London has always been a fountain of inspiration and this city will always occupy a special place in my heart.

If you like Design, you should definitely try to coordinate your trip with London Design week on mind. This year it´s between the 16-24. September and I definitely recommend to visit the design events, installations and exhibitions which are on offer during this design festival. It´s a real highlight for all design lovers! Read more about it in my previous post.

In order to give you a independent view of London & its Design world, totally up to date, I asked for you a very special London, architect and designers to tell us a few of her off the track insider hints and tips of creative city life:

Tess O´leary - architect and luxury jewelry designer

Tess O´leary,  is an Architect & Luxury Jewelry designer with an amazing conceptual approach to her creations and a special sensibility for Lifestyle, she will give us here an amazing view of her favorite inspiration spots and secret hangouts.

Can you tell us who you are, what you do and what you stand for ?

I recently relocated back to London after four years in Berlin where I started developing a new range of perfumes and candles called Hexe – witch in German – with a Berlin based perfumer Geza Schoen and designer Helder Suffenplan. These draw from old spells and witchery of old Europe but have a decidedly contemporary brand and aroma. Its been a true eye opener and experience to work with such an experienced and talented team to define the brief and shape the scents. I am trying to underpin the brand with as much integrity and am writing this as I speak in the shadow of Pendle Hill – the UK’s witch county or Salem if you will.

Alongside this my partner and I have been developing a second product which is about as unconventional. Ore is a range of jewellery that connects people to natural phenomena. Our first piece to be produced as a limited edition is named Lucy – after Lucy in the Sky of Diamonds, and each one connects to a single white dwarf star. When this star passes overhead the meteorites cast within the gold will glow. We’ve worked with a large team to bring this to fruition – from astrophysicists to technical directors, jewellers and a branding team. Its taken a long time as the materials have been particularly challenging to work with, but we are on the home straight now. We’re also working with a very unusual material called Vantablack that really captures the imagination – it is acknowledged as the darkest material known to man. And this is present in the ring itself as a true black hole. 

www.iamore.io

The Lucy ring from ORE
Ore - the Lucy ring

who are your favorite london based designers ?

They come and go…I think I veer towards more Italian design for furniture and fashion. That said, I adore the designs of London based fashion designers Mother of Pearl, Boudicca, Hussain Chalayan, Gareth Pugh and Roksanda.

how do you define londons style ?

Hmmm – very tricky! I don’t see one. I thought I did a while ago in graphics and digital design, but now it seems everyone designs the same style websites. I started working in digital design when it was really experimental, before UX was a term – when usability wasn’t a ‘thing’, but now we see these same scrolling templates the world over. I will need to mull over this question for a long time but I guess there’s usually a street element that manifests…

things a design lover should see in london – and a few of your favorite places

You may need a lifetime to see the best London has to offer. But here are a few places I frequent to find peace and subsequent headspace to seek inspiration and new ideas.

noble rot - london
the duke on roger street - london

Noble Rot – a great little wine bar that has a feel of being on an old galleon if you descend to the restaurant area at the back. Its located on Lambs Conduit – a small street of fiercely independent shops which is unusual for London which feels likes its been colonised by chains. Its a few minutes walk to another fine drinking spot – The Duke on Roger St. Its got a real 40s feel to it and crops up in the odd film. Being well out of sight its rarely mobbed so you can often grab a nice dark booth.

Noble Rot – a great little wine bar that has a feel of being on an old galleon if you descend to the restaurant area at the back. Its located on Lambs Conduit – a small street of fiercely independent shops which is unusual for London which feels likes its been colonised by chains. Its a few minutes walk to another fine drinking spot – The Duke on Roger St. Its got a real 40s feel to it and crops up in the odd film. Being well out of sight its rarely mobbed so you can often grab a nice dark booth.

noble rot - london
the duke on roger street - london

Lincolns Inn Field

Sir John Soane Museum – an absolute gem in London’s crown. The former home of this neo-classical architect from the 1800s is free (closed on Mondays). He was obsessed with light and you will see how he has wielded influence over designer right upto present day. He was an avid collector and even sent his wife to far flung places to acquire antiquities. Soane procured an Egyptian sarcophagus in 1824 and held a 3 day party to celebrate when 890 visitors came to view it, lit by the glow of 100 candelabra and lamps. 

sir john soane museum - london
hunterian museum - london
tom the cat of the seven stars - london

If you find yourself here, also find yourself to the Hunterian Museum on the opposite flank of Lincolns Inn Fields. Hidden inside the Royal College of Surgeons, this collection of anatomical specimens is positively at odds with its sparkling cabinets – all kinds of medical curiosities, physical ‘errors and inconsistencies’. Depending on your constitution, you may need a drink after this. And I recommend the Seven Stars in the legal quarter just around the corner. I hope they still have their resident cat Tom, who prowls the bar sporting a ruff around his neck, which doesn’t appear to bother him in the slightest…

If you find yourself here, also find yourself to the Hunterian Museum on the opposite flank of Lincolns Inn Fields. Hidden inside the Royal College of Surgeons, this collection of anatomical specimens is positively at odds with its sparkling cabinets – all kinds of medical curiosities, physical ‘errors and inconsistencies’. Depending on your constitution, you may need a drink after this. And I recommend the Seven Stars in the legal quarter just around the corner. I hope they still have their resident cat Tom, who prowls the bar sporting a ruff around his neck, which doesn’t appear to bother him in the slightest…

hunterian museum - london
tom the cat of the seven stars - london

Estorick Gallery, a small Modern Italian art gallery in Canonbury, N1. The core of the collection is from the Italian Futurists. Its often overlooked so is a relaxed spot in a pretty part of London.

estorick gallery - london

South Kensington Museums

Assuming there are no queues – though unfortunately they’re usually omnipresent at the Natural History Museum – London’s museum quarter has a real pull because admission is free. Quite a coup for an expensive city. This is applicable to all the major institutions – the National Gallery and British Museum included. The V&A has a very active contemporary design programme right through the year, peaking with the London Design Festival in Sept.

natural history museum - london
national gallery - london
the british museum - london
victoria and albert museum - london
egerton house - london
oginsko - london

If you have spare time afterwards go to Egerton House Hotel (where you get cheese on toast to mop up your martini mixed by Octogenarian bartender Soho stalwart Tony); Ognisko – a spacious, airy contemporary Polish restaurant in the old post-war Polish social club or the Nags Head pub on the quiet mews street in Knightsbridge.

If you have spare time afterwards go to Egerton House Hotel (where you get cheese on toast to mop up your martini mixed by Octogenarian bartender Soho stalwart Tony); Ognisko – a spacious, airy contemporary Polish restaurant in the old post-war Polish social club or the Nags Head pub on the quiet mews street in Knightsbridge.

egerton house hotel - london
oginsko - london

Tate Britain – since the Tate Modern has opened and drawn the hoards, the original Tate is a temple of calm. Even at the weekend it feels so peaceful – maybe its the lofty spaces…

tate britain - london
chelsea physic garden - london

Chelsea Physic Garden – founded in 1673 as the Apothecaries’ Garden, this is where the city’s medicinal plants were cultivated before sending them on boats down the Thames towards the Apothecary Hall – one of the medieval trades societies. The garden’s high walls have created a heat-trapping mini microclimate where many foreign species have flourished: Britain’s oldest fruiting olive tree; the most Northern grapefruit and rows of medicinal plants such as the Willow who’s bark the modern Aspirin is derived from.

Chelsea Physic Garden – founded in 1673 as the Apothecaries’ Garden, this is where the city’s medicinal plants were cultivated before sending them on boats down the Thames towards the Apothecary Hall – one of the medieval trades societies. The garden’s high walls have created a heat-trapping mini microclimate where many foreign species have flourished: Britain’s oldest fruiting olive tree; the most Northern grapefruit and rows of medicinal plants such as the Willow who’s bark the modern Aspirin is derived from.

chelsea physic garden - london

I love to feel like I’ve dropped out of London for a while – without having to venture too far. There are so many great places that feel gobsmackingly authentic:

Jose – a tiny Spanish spot on Bermondsey St. The tapas is top notch. 

Tozino – a few minutes walk from the above – hidden in a dark archway on the increasingly popular food market Maltby Street. Come rain or shine, find yourself a spot by the heavy red curtains and watch the sun beams cut through.

jose - london
tozino - london
prince of wales pub - london

Prince of Wales pub on Kennington’s Cleaver Square – this Georgian Square is a popular spot to play boules. The tree lined gravel square lends itself perfectly to this continental sport! And there are fewer better places to hang out on a balmy night. Maybe you can couple it with a visit to Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery 15 minute walk away. This won a bunch of architectural design awards including the RIBA Stirling Prize 2016, RIBA National Award 2016 and RIBA London Award 2016. Also home to the second incarnation of the Pharmacy restaurant.

Prince of Wales pub on Kennington’s Cleaver Square – this Georgian Square is a popular spot to play boules. The tree lined gravel square lends itself perfectly to this continental sport! And there are fewer better places to hang out on a balmy night. Maybe you can couple it with a visit to Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery 15 minute walk away. This won a bunch of architectural design awards including the RIBA Stirling Prize 2016, RIBA National Award 2016 and RIBA London Award 2016. Also home to the second incarnation of the Pharmacy restaurant.

prince of wales pub - london
Newport Street Gallery - london
the pharmacy restaurant and bar - london

Open House 

Admittedly a bit of a victim of its own success with queues sometimes wrapping round blocks, this is the best place to hunt around for architecture and design inspiration. All kinds of buildings throw open their doors to the public for one weekend only: from major institutions (Foreign Office) to forgotten relics (Churchill’s war rooms in Neasden) to the perennially popular ultra-contemporary private new builds that year. https://openhouselondon.open-city.org.uk/

openhouse - london
globe theatre - london

As old London is slowly wiped off the map, its a treat to do a tour to be reminded of the history. Its full of footprints from Roman and Medieval times. One of the better places to explore are Smithfield or Bermondsey – an hedonistic centre and now home to the Globe Theatre. Find out about the Winchester Geese – the bishop’s prostitutes, and find the old bear baiting pit behind the globe that held its shape in the street for carriages to turn.

As old London is slowly wiped off the map, its a treat to do a tour to be reminded of the history. Its full of footprints from Roman and Medieval times. One of the better places to explore are Smithfield or Bermondsey – an hedonistic centre and now home to the Globe Theatre. Find out about the Winchester Geese – the bishop’s prostitutes, and find the old bear baiting pit behind the globe that held its shape in the street for carriages to turn.

the globe theatre - london

Hampstead – the wild green lung of the city. Easy to reach considering its scale. This is where you come for some breathing space if you need to clear your head to let new ideas flow.

hamstead - london
porchester spa - london

Porchester Spa – a restored Art Deco spa replete with ‘independent women’ sculptures and all the tepidariums, plunge pools and saunas you could wish for. An accessibly priced experience to remember.

Porchester Spa – a restored Art Deco spa replete with ‘independent women’ sculptures and all the tepidariums, plunge pools and saunas you could wish for. An accessibly priced experience to remember.

porchester spa - london

London’s “Magnificent Seven” large cemeteries – try to visit one of these large architecturally planned cemeteries. My favourite is Nunhead – now officially a nature reserve – in an overlooked corner of S.E.London. As students at Camberwell College of Arts (where I met My Home & Yours founder Anika Schmitt) we frequented this to our hearts delight. If you find yourself round here its worth checking out Peckham Rye which is a lot going for it, including the perennially popular Frank’s Cafe – a vast bar and gallery on the rooftop of an old car park. It has panoramic views across London.

the magnificent seven cementeries - london
frank´s cafe - london
welcome trust - london

Welcome Trust – On the choked up Euston Road, this is a cool temple to medical discoveries. On the first floor you’ll find founder Henry Welcome’s personal collection that he amassed from his travels: you’ll find lines of prosthetics, educational models from different Chinese dynasties, magical and healing amulets and talismen from all cultures and eras. Its a veritable treasure trove, albeit one laid out in a million dollar high-tech environment. On the ground floor they have a temporary exhibitions that explore all kinds of facets of physical and mental health that bring together a fantastic collection of historical and contemporary exhibits each time.

Welcome Trust – On the choked up Euston Road, this is a cool temple to medical discoveries. On the first floor you’ll find founder Henry Welcome’s personal collection that he amassed from his travels: you’ll find lines of prosthetics, educational models from different Chinese dynasties, magical and healing amulets and talismen from all cultures and eras. Its a veritable treasure trove, albeit one laid out in a million dollar high-tech environment. On the ground floor they have a temporary exhibitions that explore all kinds of facets of physical and mental health that bring together a fantastic collection of historical and contemporary exhibits each time.

welcome trust - london

 

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Grandparents Day coming up

Grandparents Day coming up

grandparents day what is it all about by my home and yours blog for design and family lovers

And while we might just be busy getting our little ones prepared for their start of school, Grandparents day is just around the corner! 10.September

What is this day all about?

Well, it was initiated back in 1970 by Marian Mc Quade, a housewife from Virginia, US. She and her husband had 15 children, 43 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Not bad at all!!! A family reunion might require an approx. 80+ seat table! I really wouldn´t get my head around it I guess. haha

Anyway this lady, you can see her here in a picture, got her idea eventually approved by the White House and proclaimed its purpose: 

– To honor grandparents.

– To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children’s children.

– To help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer.

I personally have to thank my own grandmother for having shown me so many things, actually even my profession has its origin in her teachings and many skills and ways to see life.

You probably have your own special memories of your own grandparents! So I believe it is just fair to help our kids to honor theirs and for your parents to receive the message of appreciation.

In the mean time you have until 8.Sept to make use of

a fantastic 50% OFF

of this special Grandparents cushion, which will surely provoke their heart to warm and may be even some tears of emotion to roll down. If you want, for this occasion you can even

add their names or a date

totally FREE of charge! 

There are 9 fabric colors to choose from.

To let them know your love and apreciation, click here and use code:

GRANDPARENTS50

50% off the grandparents quote cushion of my home and yours

 

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30+ Options to update your kids room

30+ Options to update your kids room

30-options-to-upgrade-your-kids-room-by-My-Home-and-Yours-blog

Being a working mom means that kids summer holidays suddenly turn your summers into a juggle. In Spain summer holidays last for almost 3 month! A nightmare!

      “Would I ever have thought calling summer a nightmare??? ” haha NOOO!!!, not until I had my daughter. And please DON´T get me wrong, I am totally in love with her and feel blessed being able to spend so much time with her, however I have to say the struggle of getting it organized of who can look after her when, while we try to keep up with work, really makes me wish school holidays in summer would be shorter. Don´t you sometimes feel the same?

     Anyway, start of school is just around the corner and this year our little princess is getting into primary!!! A big thing!

Well, not quiet as in Germany, were moms have to prepare a huge “Schultüte”  – a colorful cardboard cone almost as tall as the kids them selves, stuffed with sweets and all sorts of goodies, little toys, pens, … trying to sweeten up the start of many years of hard studying.

Here in the Basque Country however there isn´t really any tradition celebrating the first day of school. Never the less our little girl believes that with the start of school she will be more “grown up”,  so we decided to give her the ambience for it and upgraded her toddlers nursery into a little/big girls room. For that we went through tons of inspiration, of which you can see a good selection in this pinterest folder. Get inspired and do it yourself!

Pinterest folder of kids room make over inspiration of my home and yours

We finally decided to keep the colors neutral, so that it can grow with her for a few more years to come.

– She got a huge bed, so friends can sleep over!

– As she is obsessed with clouds we painted the walls with about a hundred of them! (click here to know how we did it! )

kids room make over inspiration by my home and yours

– A nice shelf fits all her books and at the same time works as a doll house – later on who knows what she will stuff it with 😉

– A study desk, still very simple, as she will sure fill it up with all sorts of clutter in no time! (facing a collage of my hand printed fabric art prints)

– In front of the window a cosy armchair for story reading, with of course one of my name pillows exclusively made for her, which made her feel so very special! Each time a friend or any person comes over she has to show it off! haha – This makes me so happy!

kids room make over inspiration by my home and yours

Of course at this point I cannot miss the chance to ask you to check out, which one might be YOUR favorite kids cushion or art print, so just click here check them all out and please let me know below which one is your winner! Remember each cushion comes in 9 colors, so there should be one that is just right for you!

In order to give you a hand with upgrading your kids room I decided to run a  

FULL 2 WEEKS of 20% DISCOUNT

on all custom kids cushions and kids fabric art prints.  

Find all details on Instagram: @myhomeandyours_

20% off all kids products of my home and yours

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