11/11/13

Through the eyes of Michelle Halford, The Design Chaser

We count ourselves lucky to be working alongside so many creative, generous, and stylish people. 

One woman's approach to style and aesthetic we really admire is Michelle Halford's, from the Auckland-based design blog The Design Chaser. Self-confessed as "crazy about interiors, design, and all things Scandinavian" we caught up with Michelle and asked her what her favourite Tessuti pieces are for this season...

The Oval Stool. I love the natural look of rattan, and these stools are both unique and versatile. Perfect for use as a side table in the living room or bedroom, they would also add warmth and interest to the bathroom. 

- I'm a big fan of Eleanor Ozich of Petite Kitchen so I was delighted to see that she had put out a 2014 calendar. A stunning collection of recipes and photographs, this would make a gorgeous Christmas gift!

Stonewashed linen. There's something really special about the look and feel of natural linen. The stonewashed process makes this bedding particularly soft and luxurious. Available in a range of classic colours, the white and charcoal would be my current picks.

- I love the timeless quality of this Oak Serving Board. The shape and natural timber has a rustic quality - perfect for use as a cheeseboard. Far too pretty to store away, I would have it on display in the kitchen, either on its own or grouped with other French-style boards in varying sizes.

----------

Tell us about how The Design Chaser started and what the motivation behind this was?

Prior to launching The Design Chaser, I became hooked on reading blogs and often thought about starting my own. At the time I was working for a magazine publisher, and was completely obsessed with the home titles. Buying my first house further fueled my passion for interiors, and then when Pinterest came around, I jumped on board. As well as being addictive, it helped me to define my Scandi-inspired aesthetic, and I established a good following. I literally fired up a blogger template one day, wrote my first post and never looked back!

If someone is planning to re-work their living room, what is the one piece you think they should focus on?

The sofa - every living room needs one. Choose well - with both comfort and style in mind, and then other pieces can be layered in to the mix.

Favourite material/fabric at the moment?

It's hard to choose just one! I love natural materials like wood and leather. Marble and metallics also really appeal. For fabrics, I'm really into linen bedding and cotton Hamam-ist towels right now.

The last thing you saw that was amazing was...?

Not so much a thing, but a person. I went to Megan Morton's Styling Masterclass when The School came to Auckland last weekend. Megan is a true inspiration - warm, funny and so talented. It was an experience I will never forget.

The last purchase/gift you brought or received was?

A gorgeous Lorna Love diamond cushion cover from Lorna herself.

What is your favourite colour palette for this summer season?

White with touches of blush and coral tones.

Best place to grab brunch with friends in the weekend is?

The Fridge in Kingsland.

Auckland is great in summer because....?

The beach is never far away!

----------

You can read about more of Michelle's Tessuti picks here

Back to Journal