Tea for Two and The Clench House

 

In celebration of the first day of Spring, my cousin Jess and I took a trip out to Niagara on the Lake and enjoyed tea for two at the historic Prince of Wales hotel.

 

A couple weeks later, we are still waiting for Spring to arrive.

 

As I sit here writing this, I can see the red tips of my Peonie plants pushing their way up through the dirt.

 

Soon.

 

Signs of Spring were all over town.

 

The inside of the hotel is ornate and luxurious. Having afternoon tea here is a special treat.

 

 

Proper high tea is served. Complete with tea sandwiches, little pastries and the most delcious Jasmin-insfused raisin scones with clotted cream and Raspberry jam, it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

 

On our way home, we drove about looking at all of the qauint little cottages and grand historic homes around town. I wanted to share with you one of my favourites.

 

This is the Clench House.

 

 It's considered one of the most significant early 19th century homes in town, built by Ralfe Clench, a farmer, judge and political figure in Upper Canada. Currently it's under significant reconstruction and restoration.

 

Isn't it beautiful?

 

To the left of the home is a creek the runs alongside the house.

 

There are so many beautiful little parts to this home. Small buildings outside, additions, a greenhouse, a carriage house and what probably used to be servant's cottages.

 

 

This is the back of the house. The carriage house is attached to the main house with a glass house.

 

I mean really, how perfect!

 

We stumbled across a stand selling Pussy Willows on our way home. Perfectly Spring.

 

Have a lovely Saturday.

House Tour - Martha Stewart's Skylands Guest House

In light of Valentines Day being only a few days away, I thought I would send some inspirations with a touch of pink - okay, a lot of pink.

Though this colour palette isn't exactly my first choice, this would be a lovely little guest house to spend Valentines Day weekend in!

Enjoy!

The use of wicker furniture does give it a cozy, cottage feel.

I love the stitching detail on the pillows, and the shade of grey that she's using as an accent. I was inspired by it enough that I painted my guest room set a similar shade - Martha Stewart Cityscape.

A cozy little writing desk - as all guest rooms and houses should have. I bet there's even matching stationary!

The natural subway tile floor really grounds this room.

And, in true Martha fashion, a simple and pretty vanity. I love the look of the exposed pipes - it adds some unexpected contrast to all the pretty, delicate pinks, while still complimenting the space.

Simply Beautiful

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I came across this photo a while ago and have had it on my inspiration board forever. It's simplicity without sacrifice.

It's a simple, white house, but the slight architectural detail in the porch and windows make it pretty. There's a simple, white picket fence, but the detail around the top adds so much charm. There is little landscaping, but the simple stone pathway and potted hydrangea shrubs add whimsy. And the view - simply breathtaking!

I often feel that "simple" means bare and slightly boring, but that's not always the case. Sometimes, the slightest detail is just enough to achieve the simplified look, without compromising personal style and character.

Have a lovely week!