It is hard to believe that we are into the last third of the month.  Slow down September!  As summer slips away, I think it is important to reflect on the season and all of its happenings… so with a cup of tea in the living room, I will do just that!

When I think things over, a calming environment is necessary.  This living room is a beautiful space to spend time reflecting, relaxing, and planning for seasons to come.  It is one of my favourite rooms, having a wonderful blend of elegance with a lived in ease.  The French Country inspired room came together over time and is shaped with special elements in every corner.

The colour palette is both calming and cheerful with its blend of warm neutrals, metallic and woods with dashes of summery shades.  On the walls, framed maps of Paris are hung over the sofa, an antique mirror found at a second hand store is placed above the arm chair and a colourful Claudette Castonguay painting sits above the fireplace.

My favourite piece in the room is the antique French bonnetière located at the entry to the space.  It is a beautiful piece of furniture, with lots of character and pretty details.  We found it for an unbelievable price, which is always an added bonus.

As far as the fabric elements go, the warm white and ochre patterned linen curtains were repurposed from another room, but have made the living room their permanent home.  The comfy down-filled sofas were slipcovered many years ago and still look fabulous.  We have collected the pillows over time including some golden silk Ikat beauties, a printed linen option, and a cotton selection with neutral striped details.  Quilted blankets are never further than arms length in this room, so it is easy to cozy up.  It must be highlighted that the colourful quilt was made by my talented Aunt – amazing!

To round up the other details, the brushed metallic details of the tables and the fireplace screen along with the mirrored and marble elements add a light and luminosity to the room.  These details hint at formality making the room feel elegant.  The coffee table books are filled with lovely images to flip through when relaxing in the space.  The lamps are topped with mis-matched wicker and printed paisley shades lending a bit character.  Even the smallest inclusions make me smile.   The framed photograph of my Grandmother’s hat and a gift from running friends on display hold a special place in the heart.  The French-style market tote hanging on the beveled glass door was brought back from a trip to Paris and is a reminder of an amazing trip.  Lastly, the water pitcher filled with flowers is a final reminder of the summer months and the trips to the markets.

On the last weekend of the official summer season, I hope you have some time to put your feet up and unwind.   If you are looking for more reading material, perhaps you would like to take a look at my posts Wake To Vivacious Summer Blooms and Table Styling For Late Summer Entertaining for more summery memories.