Wide Open Space

High ceilings, perspective and the clever use of natural materials and relaxing colour schemes confer these rooms their grand, lofty, airy feel. Take in the views and a deep breath and rest assured: claustrophobic, you won't feel!

Sources: (1) Both the residential and commercial portfolios of celebrated interior designer Kelly Hoppen are to die for and the Ski Chalet at Megève (France) is no exception! Earthy tones, wooden ceilings, polished rusticity and unusual touches like the antlers chandelier make the chalet homely. The living quarters are articulated around a central fireplace. From the open staircase one can appreciate the height from the slopy ceilings down. (2) If you fancy the idea of a home bathed in light, with floor to rooftop bookshelves and a statement fireplace, look no further than this Stockholm loft featured in SpyHomeDesign (via From London with Love). (3) and (4) Le Journal de La Maison. (3) 'Visite d'une Maison à Bali' (Nov 2011), photo by Jacob Termansen. This Balinese house is like a cathedral in the Tropics with its tall ceiling. It is also the happy mix between old (reconditioned traditional joglo panels from Java used here for the facing wall) and new (waxed concrete sink). Industrial-style lighting and teak furniture complete the offer. (4) 'Une Maison de Vacances en Bois et Indigo' (July-August 2011), photo by Adriano Bacchella/ Photofoyer. Set in the exclusive South Corsican resort of Sperone, this wooden house enjoys natural light aplenty and killer views over the Med. The nautical theme is well present throughout, with the lounge set in what looks like a lower deck area, recreating a yacht interior. The sloping ceiling carries the idea of openness to the elements.

Carl Kleiner's Sweet Sensations

Last year Swedish photographer Carl Kleiner cooked up a storm in the Ikea kitchen with his spiced-up revisit of the humble recipe book, where he gave free rein to his visually innovative destructured interpretation of the recipe concept, with photos alone doing the talking, bringing an end to the perplexity of words, unclear instructions and approximate translations, while proving once and for all that the proof of the pudding is not just in the baking!

Pict 1-7: Carl Kleiner for Ikea (styling by Evelina Bratell): Vaniljhorn, Mandelmussla, Kolakakor, Lussekatter, Lingonpeparkaka, Ruts Hästsko and Prinsesstårta.