Last week we went all the way to Israel to get some incredible insights into its rich architectural offering…
As part of Jerusalem’s “Houses from Within” festival, we were very kindly invited to step into an array of private apartments, giving us an intimate glimpse of Levantine living. There’s a huge creative movement charging the nation and we were lucky enough to get exclusive access to some of the coolest, quirkiest and most imaginative living spaces. As a teaser to our upcoming feature on Israel, here’s a listical of our favourite interiors ideas – a must-see if you’re planning on doing some decorating in the near future!
Book shelves aren’t just a place to store your books. You can use them to display your vintage cameras too…
…and your retro radios (not to mention your many military hats).
But why buy a doorstop when a stack of books will clearly suffice, as it does so well in the tranquil library of the stunning Van Leer Institute
Prefer writing to reading? For a clear mind, try a clear desk. Sheer minimalism at its best.
Suffering from writer’s block? This is the perfect cure: the ultimate writer’s retreat.
If you’re feeling inventive and up for rummaging around some antique shops, look out for a huge Roman style dish (or shield, we’re not quite sure). You never know when it might make a great statement coffee table.
Top a sturdy storage unit with some over-sized cushions to create the cosiest corner for an afternoon nap…
…or squeeze into an alcove to make an awesome window seat.
Need a nook to have a quiet conversation? Some minimalist Scandi-style furniture will provide the perfect setting.
This charming nursery has it all, from the bed to the bunting. The casual shag rug draped over the duvet makes it look warm and inviting and we love the simple light bulb dangling from the wooden bracket.
Is this the cutest Mr & Mrs idea ever? We’re not sure from where the designer got this linen set, so get thee to Etsy for some alternatives.
You can never have too many coffee pots. For the record, Israel does EXCELLENT coffee.
Work some monochrome magic into your lighting arrangement.
We love this idea for re-purposing old strips of fabric. Would make a fabulous room divider or mobile feature wall! An inspired idea from the curators of Ticho House in Jerusalem.
If you struggle to organise your thoughts and ideas, create an inspiration wall to get things in order, à la Sherlock.
Because who doesn’t want a life-sized picture of Charlie Chaplin gracing their walls? Spotted in the lovingly restored home of the incredible artist Birgitta Yavari Ilan
Bannisters are over-rated. According to the architect of the phenomenal Tel Avivian apartments at 46 Herbert Samuel, anyway. Check out these unbelievable interiors!
Moving house? Rope your friends into a painting party and get them all to commemorate the occasion by personalising a plate! We stole this idea from some awesome artists at Alliance House, the creative complex run by the New Spirit start-up hub.
Always wanted a herb garden but don’t have the space? Hang your plants from the ceiling instead to create an indoor greenhouse! Think along the lines of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
Too far from the beach? Recreate that seaside spirit by erecting a parasol and some deck chairs wherever you need a pop of colour. Indoors or outdoors, it’ll certainly brighten up your day!
Because one swing is never enough. Cocoon idea courtesy of the gorgeous Mamila Hotel in Jerusalem
Finally, just for kicks: If we had legs like these, we’d want to put them on display too. Instead, they greet visitors to the Meier on Rothschild, one of Tel Aviv’s most iconic buildings.
