The Unexpected Red Theory, initially coined by Taylor Migliazzo Simon on TikTok, proposes that adding red accents to a space where it’s unexpected can dramatically enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Historiska Hem – Photographer: Fredric Boukari Styling: Åsa Copparstad
Red possesses a transformative energy capable of revitalising any space, whether it’s through a painted furniture piece, a captivating artwork, or even the intricate details of the woodwork. Its impact isn’t limited to walls alone; it can make a significant statement in various elements of interior design. In this photograph captured by Fredric Boukari, the woodwork on the French doors adds a distinctive flair to an otherwise neutral space, demonstrating the power of red to elevate aesthetics.
Over the last few years, we’ve noticed a real shift in preferences for both clients, with what they request and location owners in how they decorate their homes. Gone are the days where a blank canvas reins supreme, clients and home owners are steering towards houses that feel more like homes, whether that’s a maximalist take with pattern and colour or more muted tones, showing some personality in your décor is favourable.
We recently photographed a fabulous example of this In Honor Oak, our location house, Hooks. This Victorian House includes a stylish palette of greens, pastel pinks, deep blues and even some yellow. One standout aspect of the house that caught our eye was the vibrant red curtains adorning the kitchen/dining space. Naturally, the owner has curated a selection of red accessories, ranging from ramekins to artwork. However, our personal favourite addition is the charmingly painted red dining chair. See, the red works well in this space, it brings in extra life, without the red the space would still work, being a neutral space with some muted tones. But the red brings another life!
Shoot Location – Invisible House (1st Option Locations)
The theory finds another compelling example in Invisible House, a brutalist concrete structure that would otherwise be monochromatic. However, a statement red sofa introduces a dynamic contrast, transforming the space entirely.
Similarly, Birchwood House embraces the ‘Unexpected Red Theory’ in its dining space. A bold red bench serves as the focal point, providing a vibrant counterbalance to the brutalist aesthetic of the room.
Shoot Location – Hanover (1st Option Locations)
Taking the theory to new heights, Hanover exemplifies the concept with ingenuity. In the lounge area, bespoke joinery is finished in a captivating red hue, complemented by a bold red interior door and a visually striking striped, red fireplace surround.
Left to right: Atomic Red, Red Earth, Volcanic Red, High Voltage, Caliente
By strategically incorporating red accents, these spaces transcend the ordinary, showcasing the power of unexpected elements to breathe new life into interior design.
If you’ve been keeping up with us on social media, you’ll have noticed our regular feature on remarkable talent, particularly interior stylists and photographers. It’s been a while since we delved into an article spotlighting our favourite interior stylists, so we’re back with Part 2 of Interior Stylists We Love for your enjoyment.
Ali Brown
Let’s start by introducing interiors, food and lifestyle stylist Ali Brown. Based in London, Ali brings a wealth of experience from her background in theatre design, where she experienced various roles including costume design for film and TV, couture millinery, corsetry, and embroidery.
Amersham Designs – Styled by Ali Brown
Currently operating freelance, Ali boasts a rich career history, having served as an in-house stylist for editorials at esteemed publications such as Homes & Gardens. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with a diverse array of talented creatives, including photographers, stylists, producers, and designers, striving to create beautifully-curated imagery across the board.
Styled by Ali Brown
Discover the rich tapestry of Ali’s portfolio, spanning interiors, culinary creations, and vibrant lifestyle shots; to do so, we highly suggest visiting both her website and her Instagram page for a browse of her captivating work.
Next we have Diana Civil, another talented London-based interior stylist. Diana is also a producer, art director and set designer, boasting an impressive portfolio on a range of beautifully-curated creative projects.
Styled by Diana Civil
Diana has an extensive career across many creative departments, making her an all-rounder and a stellar choice for your interior styling and production needs. Some of her skills include location work, set design and construction, prop and location sourcing, budget management and commissioning other creatives.
Styled by Diana Civil
Diana has worked with a great roster of reputable clients, including John Lewis, Laura Ashley, Furniture Village, Harrods and Dulux, contributing solid, quality work to her portfolio. Now, she’s the co-founder of The Style Producers, a content creation business offering styling, art direction and event styling services. She also co-owns a very fun Barbie-inspired static caravan in Camber Sands! We’ve linked all of the pages mentioned below, so you can get a good idea of the main aesthetic across her content and caravan business.
Louisa, with just over 22 years of experience in interior styling and design, is also the founder and creative director of design and styling agency House of Grey. Not only does her contemporary business bring beautiful ideas to life within both personal and professional spaces, but they design with human and ecological health in mind. This consistent concept, of which they refer to as Circular Salutogenic Design, keeps House of Grey fresh, relevant and unique in a saturated contemporary market.
House of Grey
Not forgetting the purpose of this piece, we want to show appreciation for Louisa’s incredible talent, particularly in styling, which has clearly contributed to her success with forming House of Grey. Louisa’s impeccable styling skills and strong sense for wellness is translated into her own living space. Covered by a number of publications, Louisa shares how her home and its design play an essential part in the contentment of her life. It’s no surprise that after twenty years in the industry, the stylist took it as priority to apply her knowledge to her own space, highlighting the importance of interiors and ‘how homes can transform our lives’.
Styled by Louisa Grey
To discover more about House of Grey or to see if they might be a good fit for your next design project, make sure to visit their website. If you’re interested in seeing some more personal content from the creative, then make sure to check out her Instagram page for a more authentic but none-the-less aesthetically pleasing feed. Finally, you can check out our feature of Louisa in our latest Stylist Showcase on our LinkedIn page.
Pippa Jameson is another talented London-based interior stylist with fantastic skills and experience across creative direction, consultation and styling for both editorial and commercial clients. She covers multiple other categories, including advertising, set design, TV and film. Pippa has an impressive over-25 years of experience in her field, working with credible clients such as NEXT Retail, H&M and Not on The High Street. Not only has Pippa worked on a fantastic range of projects for clients, but she has appeared as a guest stylist and designer on shows such as ITV1’s ‘Bad Builders Bang To Rights’ and BBC2’s ‘The Hotel Inspector’, as well as serving as an Industry Expert for Channel 5’s ‘The Fixer’.
Interior Styling Segment for Sainsbury’s
Now, Pippa is the founder of design & styling company The Sensory Home. The service is dedicated to enhancing well-being through sensory design, including through the consideration of scent, sound, touch and sight in interiors to create harmonious living spaces. Her book ‘The Sensory Home’ (also featured in our Instagram story collection in celebration of World Book Day) serves as a ‘comprehensive guide’ to addressing the previously mentioned sensory elements through interior design and styling.
Pippa Jameson Interior Stylists
Pippa’s Instagram page brings something a little different to the table; here, you’ll find some daily personal snaps, interior design/ styling aesthetics and original graphics where she shares some nuggets of wisdom and motivational mantras.
We’d also strongly urge you to have a browse of both her interior styling website, as well as The Sensory Home site – there’s plenty of gorgeous inspiration to admire and lots of valuable information to be absorbed!
At last but most definitely not least, we have Anna Mackie-East. Anna is a versatile interior stylist and art director, operating across the UK and internationally as a freelancer. Accumulating over a decade of expertise in upscale interior styling and art direction, she has extended her talents to encompass showroom and exhibition stand design, installations, personalised residential interiors and still life styling.
Artists & Objects – Styled by Anna Mackie-East
Possessing a rare blend of creativity and meticulous organisation, Anna leads teams and projects from inception to fruition, overseeing every detail with precision. Her fervour lies in crafting captivating spaces and visuals, leveraging elements such as composition, colour, texture, and shape.
House of Vara – Styled by Anna Mackie-East
With an innate flair for arranging spaces and objects in visually pleasing ways, she infuses this essence into the core of each project she undertakes. Annie has also worked with a broad range of clients, including the likes of The White Company, John Lewis, Mr Porter, M&S, Sainsbury’s, Swisse and Grey Goose.
Styled by Anna Mackie-East
Check out the stylist’s website for an impressive portfolio of superb work and to read more about her experience as a stylist and all-round artist. Linked below, her Instagram page offers visitors a carefully-curated feed of beautiful interior imagery alongside some of her still life work.
We hope you enjoyed reading about these incredible interior stylists and the work they’ve produced to date. We really encourage you to check out their work and to get inspired – whether you’re a budding interior designer or just looking to indulge in some gorgeous home decor or photography inspiration, we don’t doubt that you’ll find what you’re looking for and more.
From arched windows to alcoves, bookshelves to custom kitchen cabinetry, arches in design have surged in popularity over recent years. Today, we’re taking you on a tour of some fabulous locations that showcase the diverse uses of arches in interior design.
Let’s begin with the architectural marvel, Blue, a converted chapel boasting four grand arched sash windows that flood the space with natural light. This striking feature serves as the focal point of the room, enhanced by the delightful interplay of sunlight and tree shadows.
Shoot Location – Blue (1st Option Locations)
While Blue flaunts its structural elegance, there are numerous ways to incorporate archways into your own space, regardless of its size. Take, for instance, our latest addition, Otto. The custom joinery in its extension features four arched display units with integrated bookshelves, injecting a more playful element into the room in comparison to conventional built-ins.
Another stellar example of bespoke joinery can be found in the study area at Mint. Here, a spacious arched alcove adorned with shelving and a desk cleverly defines the workspace, while an understated accompanying arch cupboard adds to the room’s charm. Additionally, Mint seamlessly integrates arches to connect the study area with the kitchen/dining extension, ingeniously allowing more natural light to filter through a fluted arched window.
Shoot Location – Memphis (1st Option Locations)
At our shoot location Memphis, arches serve as elegant dividers within the lounge, creating distinct yet harmonious zones. On one side, a warm and inviting atmosphere is cultivated with rich wood panelling, perfect for cosy relaxation. Meanwhile, the other side offers a brighter ambiance adorned with pastel hues and a piano, ideal for hosting gatherings.
Throughout the space, the motif of arches is echoed, contributing to its cohesive design. An arched mirror adds visual interest, while a doorway gracefully leads into the kitchen, maintaining the flow between areas. Additionally, round accents such as windows and art pieces further accentuate the timeless charm of the arches, infusing the space with a sense of harmony and sophistication.
Shoot Location – Perry (1st Option Locations)
At last but most definitely not least, let’s delve into Perry, a modern design masterpiece brimming with arches. From the kitchen’s symmetrical beauty, featuring arched cabinetry and a central island, to the dining space enhanced with striking green-hued custom display units flanking the fireplace, Perry exudes contemporary elegance. Not to mention, the arched mirrors and oval window further elevate the dining area’s aesthetic appeal.
In the ever-evolving landscape of interior design, arches have emerged as versatile and timeless elements, adding character and sophistication to any space. Whether grand or subtle, these graceful curves are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Step into the realm of Quiet Luxury, a trend recently revived in the fashion sphere with brands such as Khaite,The Row, and Celine at the forefront. As ever, we’re seeing the two worlds – fashion and interiors – overlap. This movement celebrates understated elegance, embracing classic muted colour palettes, exquisite craftsmanship, and premium quality pieces. As we embark on this journey, we explore the surge of luxurious homes that embody this refined aesthetic, where every detail whispers sophistication and timeless allure.
We’ve picked some of our stylish, interior-designed spaces that we represent for your perusal:
Shoot Location – The Granary (1st Option Locations) Photographer – Nick Smith
This impeccably designed living room epitomises the trend with its sophisticated yet understated ambiance. Muted tones and delicate hues compliment the light wood parquet flooring, the plants bringing life into the space. Textures include the painted brick chimney breast, wood-panelled walls and the patterned rug. Every detail is meticulously curated to work in harmony.
An elegant study space with bespoke wooden cabinetry, complete with a spacious bookshelf, a sophisticated bar and ample cupboards for practicality. Statement lighting creates a sculptural centrepiece, while subtle yet complementary textures adorn the chair, footstool, and side table, adding layers of tactile luxury. The rich palette envelops the space in a welcoming warmth.
A soft approach – it’s in the details in this minimalist Scandinavian home. The custom draped curtain softly diffuses the natural light whilst adding a touch of texture and harmony against the lime washed ceiling and light wooden furnishings and flooring. The result is a luxurious serene bedroom oasis, where every element works together seamlessly to create a haven of tranquillity.
This contemporary residence harmonises with its surroundings through thoughtful proportions and ample natural light. Tall, narrow windows frame the focal point—a cosy log burner—while adding to the sense of spaciousness in the living area. Symmetry reigns in this warm, neutral palette, accentuating the minimalist yet luxurious ambiance of the space, inviting residents to bask in its understated elegance.
We hope you enjoyed these beautiful examples of quiet luxury amongst our fantastic shoot locations! What are your opinions on this interior style?
If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading. Until next time!
Live/work spaces are those designed to incorporate both personal and professional lives. Back in the day, this might’ve come in the form of an overcrowded study or a repurposed garden shed, but contemporary live/work spaces have developed far beyond their basic original concept. This type of housing is particularly prevalent in warehouse and loft redevelopments and can present very high in value.
A Brief History of the Live/Work Space
In 90s Hackney, London, the live/work concept arose as a result of local authorities pushing for the regeneration of industrial spaces in the area. Their reasoning was to avoid transitioning to entire developments of residential properties, especially as a tactic to lure in small businesses to the area and make use of any defunct buildings.
Haidée Drew in her studio at Helen MacKay House (Richard Brown)
The live/work concept has been adopted primarily by creatives, but there is ongoing growth of interest amongst people in all sorts of working fields, particularly since the rise of remote and hybrid working as a result of the recent pandemic. Although this unique set up has been popular with the creative types, live/work spaces aren’t a new phenomenon; a longstanding example are Shophouses, where commerce and housing met under the same roof. This type and similar variations have originated from all over the world, including the US, Japan and France. In history, the natural adopting of the live/work lifestyle was prevalent – historians have uncovered the Industrial Revolution as a contributing factor to the shift-away from live/work units over time. Evolutions in transportation and the rise of single-use zoning are amongst things that have contributed to changes.
An Old Taiwanese Shophouse (Spectral Code)
Modern Live/Work Spaces as Shoot Locations
We have a few live/work properties on our books, originally set up to suit the professional requirements of their owners, to then be later acknowledged as suitable but unique places for photoshoots and filming.
Ashby
Ashby is a beautiful family mews home in South London, clad in Corten steel and fronted by re-built 19th Century exposed brick. It houses 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen/ living/ dining room, along with its live/work claim – a spacious, wooden design studio where its owner works from home. The owner tells us more about the property and its story in an episode of My Home, My Haven.
Shoot Location – Ashby (1st Option Locations)
Casalino
Casalino is a self-built home with futuristic-modern interior design and a careful selection of textures and materials throughout. Its glass panelling and skylights make it an intriguing location, along with its huge, high-ceilinged artist studio on the ground floor. We recently interviewed the owners of this incredible live/work unit, so, luckily, you can learn more about their journey in developing the space in our recent episode of My Home as a Shoot Location here.
Shoot Location – Casalino (1st Option Locations)
Clapton Tram Shed
Unsurprisingly, the owner of this plant-filled haven was an interior designer. Clapton Tram Shed is highly unique and requires an extreme level of care and maintenance, making it all the more special. It holds London history and is now used as a versatile shoot location with its very own built-in photo studio cove, making it a great example of a contemporary live/work unit.
Besides shoot locations and privately-owned London live/work units, there have been projects popping up globally which solely and actively promote the live/work lifestyle, providing homes which are part of a community and fully equipped with venues and services to cater to both ends of the lifestyle.
Live/Work Units (Cul De Sac)
An example of this is the Cul De Sac live/work community in Tempe, Arizona, in the United States. Described as a ‘people-centred open space’, this project combines home, retail, work, wellness and play all in one estate. From art classes to state-of-the-art gyms, restaurants and convenient public transport links to the surrounding city, this example takes the live/work concept to a whole new level. Not only does the Cul De Sac promote a seamless live/work lifestyle, but it has become the first US community to ban cars – this further exemplifies how the live/work model can be extended to harness an entirely alternative way of life. It can also be a reflection of the type of people who might choose to own or rent a live/work space.
Live/Work Units (Cul De Sac)
This mode of live/work/play is a very interesting extension of the classic live/work unit – if you’d like to read more, we’d strongly suggest reading this article by IOptimize Realty here.
That’s a wrap!
We hope you found this piece on live/work spaces interesting (or even useful) ! If you’d like us to cover more on live/work spaces then please let us know.
In a city that runs on caffeine, it’s no surprise that there are an abundance of independent coffee shops on every corner. Whether it’s from a weekend discovering a new neighbourhood, or a morning coffee before a shoot, our coffee escapades have led us to uncover some hidden gems. We won’t bore you with the coffee order, obviously it’s an oat flat white every time.
A scandi minimalist space with both indoor and outdoor seating. The offering of baked goods here are unmatched, with focaccia, bagels and croissants to name a few. Visit on a sunny day and you can bask in the sunshine on the pavement, a perfect vantage point to watch the world of Clapton go by.
Tucked just moments from the overground station, Cable Co exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. With rustic interiors, this cosy haven is staffed with friendly faces and serves up exceptional coffee. A perfect retreat for those seeking comfort and a delightful caffeine fix in the heart of Kensal Rise.
Nestled conveniently next to Clapton Overground, this grab-and-go kiosk offers a takeaway-only experience with well-priced delights and exquisite pastries. The charming owner adds a personal touch, making it a delightful stop for those on the move.
Step into a laid-back, industrial-rustic space that’s as roomy as it is unpretentious. With plenty of tables, it’s perfect for getting some work done. They even have vegan bakery options for those looking for plant-based treats. And, if you’re a dog owner, feel free to bring your furry friend along; just like many Hackney-based venues, it’s a dog-friendly spot!
Discover this Stoke Newington gem, boasting quirky, industrial interiors. The use of plaster adds a unique touch, creating an atmosphere that’s as distinctive as it is inviting. And of course, don’t miss out on their great coffee, making it the perfect spot to unwind in style.
A proudly LGBTQ+ friendly space where everything on the menu is vegan! Revel in the cosy ambiance adorned with charming exposed brick decor and a whimsical disco ball. Venture to the cool outdoor seating area for a delightful people-watching experience. This gem not only caters to diverse tastes but also provides a vibrant and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy.
Experience a coffee haven that boasts funky and bright interiors. The lively mix of seating options and eye-catching art create a playful vibe, complemented by the super welcoming staff. Beyond its excellent coffee offerings, The Broca proudly embraces an LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, making it a standout hangout situated conveniently outside Brockley Station.
In Archway, this charming spot effortlessly combines great ambiance with delightful details. A warm, inviting atmosphere welcomes you to settle into a tucked-away booth and savor the wonderful (coffee-drinking) moment! Cute cups also add a touch of playfulness to your visit. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the place takes your experience to the next level with a delectable selection of sandwiches and pastries, making it the perfect spot to indulge.
You must try this prime spot conveniently situated right opposite Hampstead Heath and the overground station. The cups you’ll find here are not just vessels for exceptional coffee but are part of a larger social enterprise. The coffee beans are roasted by prisoners in HMP The Mount, contributing to a unique initiative aimed at reducing reoffending in the UK. Sip on a cup of coffee with purpose and enjoy the scenic surroundings in this thoughtful and impactful cafe.
Whether you’re a seasoned Londoner or just visiting for the weekend, why not give one of these spots a try? If you want to see which coffee shop you’ll vibe with the most, watch our recent coffee shop visits in our TikTok here.
For those who’ve been with us for a while, you might remember a delightful feature we used to run on the 1st Option Instagram page – “Chair of the Week.” Each week, we delved into the rich history of a notable chair, unravelling its story. This month, we’re bringing it back in blog form. Join us as we countdown through seven stylish chairs, each with its unique flair and narrative.
Vitra Eames Plastic Side Chair DSW
Commencing with the Vitra Eames DSW Side Chair, a creation from the renowned design duo Charles and Ray Eames. This timeless chair seamlessly blends form and function. The sleek and minimalist design showcases a moulded plastic seat paired with a robust wooden base, ensuring a harmonious balance of comfort and durability. Brace yourself for a touch of Eames-inspired elegance as we continue our exploration of noteworthy chairs.
Left: Eames DSW Side Chair. Right: Wishbone Chair
Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner
Crafted by furniture designer Hans J. Wegner in 1949 for Carl Hansen & Son, the Wishbone Chair boasts a simple yet sophisticated design. With a distinctive Y-shaped backrest and gracefully curved armrests, this chair effortlessly combines comfort and support. Renowned as one of the best chairs of the 20th century, the Wishbone Chair has secured its place as a quintessential element in modern interior design. Meticulously crafted from premium materials such as solid wood and hand-woven paper cord, the chair exudes both durability and comfort. Available in a range of wood finishes and cord colours, it offers a customisable touch to seamlessly complement any decor style.
Vitra Eames Lounge & Mr Chair
In joint 5th place, we have the Vitra Eames Lounge Chair and the George Mulhauser Mr Chair. The Eames Lounge chair, a true classic, requires little introduction and stands as one of the most beloved chair designs of the 20th century. Its timeless appeal and versatile, practical design make it a fitting addition to any home. Renowned for its comfort and striking aesthetics, the Eames Lounge chair has solidified its popularity by seamlessly blending style and functionality, earning its place as a timeless classic in the world of furniture design. You can find examples of the Vitra Eames Lounge Chair in our locations Blackwood House, Halo, Honeycomb and Canopy.
Left: Mr Chair. Right: Vitra Eames Lounge Chair
A few years ago, we wouldn’t have been aware of the existence of the next chair on our list. In design, like many other realms, when a product gains cult status, its influence can be seen in other creations. There’s speculation that the George Mulhauser Mr Chair drew significant inspiration from the Eames chair. While the lounge chair trend is currently thriving, the Mr Chair holds a unique appeal for being rare and less globally accessible – making it all the more special. Our chic venue, Terrazzo, proudly features the Mr Chair in their lounge area.
Barcelona Relax Chair by Knoll
Another personal favourite is the Barcelona Chair. The Barcelona Chair, a symbol of sophistication and modern design, was crafted by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1929 for the German Pavilion at the International Exposition in Barcelona. Representing the modernist movement, it features industrial materials like steel and leather, showcasing sleek lines and a tufted leather design held by a polished chrome frame. This beautiful and highly functional chair offers optimal support and comfort, making it perfect for various settings, from offices to homes. Today, the Barcelona Chair remains highly sought-after, a timeless testament to Mies van der Rohe’s enduring legacy in 20th century design. You’ll spot these in a few of our locations, including Etchingham Park, 6ixteen Cottage, Brondesbury Park, Gee Street and Parker.
Left: Barcelona Relax Chair. Right: Wassily Chair
Wassily Chair by Knoll
The Wassily Chair, conceived by Marcel Breuer between 1925-1926, stands as a groundbreaking icon in modern furniture design. Originally known as the Model B3 chair, its nickname “Wassily” stems from the admiration of artist Wassily Kandinsky for this innovative creation. Crafted with tubular steel and canvas, the chair marked a radical departure from conventional furniture materials, embodying the Bauhaus movement’s principles of form following function. Designed by Breuer, a prominent figure in the Bauhaus movement, the Wassily Chair is a testament to the transformative use of industrial materials in furniture design. Its enduring appeal lies in its clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and the revolutionary spirit that defines its place in the history of modernist design. Today, the Wassily Chair remains a symbol of artistic vision and forward-thinking innovation, seamlessly fitting into contemporary interiors. You can find a Wassily Chair at our shoot location Hoxton Heights.
Casalino Chair
The Casalino chair, a midcentury modern classic, emerged in 1970 as the brainchild of renowned Italian designer Alexander Begge. Crafted from moulded polypropylene, the Casalino chair embodied the design ethos of the era, characterised by its sleek, minimalist form and vibrant colour options. Begge’s vision was to create a versatile, lightweight chair that not only reflected the aesthetics of the time but also catered to the practical needs of contemporary living spaces. Its success lay not only in its aesthetics but also in its adaptability to various environments. The Casalino chair soon became a symbol of modernity, finding its way into homes, offices, and public spaces alike. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of functional and stylish design from the 1970s, offering a nostalgic yet timeless accent to contemporary interiors. You can find plenty of this design at our shoot location called…Casalino!
Left: Casalino Chairs. Right: Vitra La Chaise Lounge Chair.
Vitra La Chaise Lounge Chair
Yes, you’ve read that right, another Eames chair; what can we say, they make great chairs! The Vitra La Chaise Lounge chair, an emblem of avant-garde design, was born out of the collaboration between Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen. Conceived in 1948 for the Museum of Modern Art’s “International Competition for Low-Cost Furniture Design,” the chair’s name, “La Chaise,” pays homage to a sculpture by Gaston Lachaise, reflecting the fluid and sculptural form of the furniture piece. Despite its initial conception over 70 years ago, the Vitra La Chaise Lounge maintains its contemporary allure, showcasing a fusion of organic shapes and innovative materials. Characterised by a sweeping, single-piece fibreglass shell atop sleek chrome legs, the design is both visually striking and functionally dynamic. Today, the Vitra La Chaise stands as an enduring testament to Eames’ and Saarinen’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of modern design, embodying timeless elegance in the realm of furniture.
That’s it from us!
If you made it this far, thank you! We can only assume you also share a deep love for chairs. Which chair was your favourite?
Over the past few years, it’s become increasingly popular to use natural materials to finish the home. Stepping away from stark whites and minimalistic decor, we’re seeing materials like wood, exposed brick, terracotta and stone being incorporated to add texture. Plaster feels like a natural evolution of this trend, acting as a simple way to add character, warmth and a modern but rustic appeal. The great thing about plaster is that it will suit most homes and is a great way to warm up a space; take a look at our shoot location Hanover below, which features a beautiful, peachy plaster finish across its open-plan kitchen/ dining room.
Shoot Location – Hanover
How can you achieve this effect?
Well, if you’re renovating, you can simply leave the plastered walls unpainted, leaving behind a true, raw effect. However, if this is the approach you want to take, you should first discuss this with whomever is building or decorating your place, as you’ll need to ensure that the type of plaster being used is one which will work with the space.
The second way you can achieve this look is…paint! Paint can be transformative; take our location Half Acres – previously a cool blue space, the owners used Dulux Heritage paint (Pale Nutmeg as the base coat, followed by Pale Walnut) to completely alter the atmosphere of the room. See the before and after below – what a difference!
Shoot Location – Half Acres
Types of Plaster
Now, we’re no experts on plaster or its application, but we thought we’d give you a run-down on some of the types of plaster available, just to get you thinking about which route you might possibly take.
Lime Plaster
Lime plaster is a timeless choice, composed of lime, sand and water, employed for millennia due to its breathability.
Gypsum Plaster
This is the most widely-used option. It’s less breathable but ideal for contemporary homes and extensions, providing a smooth finish with its distinctive pink appearance.
Cement Plaster
Cement plaster is a blend of sand, cement and water, setting quickly. While achieving a smooth surface is more challenging, it can be used in conjunction with Gypsum plaster for a best-of-both-worlds hybrid finish.
Clay Plaster
This is an eco-friendly alternative, crafted from natural clay, sand and pigments.
Venetian Plaster
This kind employs a traditional technique, using fired limestone and water, offering a diverse colour palette through pigments.
Tadelakt Plaster
Tadelakt plaster, often referred to as Moroccan plaster, is an ancient method that yields a naturally beautiful and rustic finish.
If you’re interested, you can find out more about the different types of plaster here.
Have you heard of Bauwerk? This brand of limewash paint is a great option for a repaint. It’s an eco-friendly paint that works on walls, masonry and bricks. They have a huge range of colours available, so you can get creative.
This is a classic paint choice that’s grown in popularity over the last few years. The Setting Plaster is a dusty pink, calling after ‘the blushing walls we often admire in newly plastered houses’. It does what it says on the tin!
This is another great option for an earthy plaster colour, also inspired by (you guessed it!) ‘the natural pigment of lime plaster’.
Shoot Location – Palm Residence
At 1st Option, we have some incredible shoot location houses which showcase wonderful examples of plaster amongst their decor. If you’d like to see more, we’d highly recommend checking out our shoot locations Blockwork, Capri, Casa, Cotton Studio and Inde. That’s not it, though – we have so many more shoot locations that feature plaster walls – you can find the rest by browsing through our ‘plaster’ filter here.
Well, that’s it from us today! We hope you learned a good deal about this prominent interior trend and that you’re feeling inspired for your next interior project!
This year we decided to host a fancy dress day in the office for Halloween. The idea was put forward by Creative Assistant Melisa (naturally, because her birthday is on Halloween) and approved by our General Manager, Abi. And so, on that day, it was decided; 1st Option Locations would host a fabulous fancy dress day, and no other employees had a say on the matter!
We thought we’d use our blog to document all the costumes, both for the archive and so that we can inspire the rest of the world with our unmatched creativity. Stay tuned to find out who won the prize for Best Dressed (feel free to do a low-risk bet with yourself while you’re reading).
Melisa as Velma Dinkley
Melisa dressed up as Velma Dinkley from Scooby Doo! Surprisingly, she managed to make it through the day without losing her glasses. She used her magnifying glass to carefully inspect everyone’s costume, ensuring there were no ghosts or goblins in disguise.
Luis as the Goblin King
Definitely not undercover, we had the Goblin King visit the office. The character originates from the film Labyrinth (1986) and is played by the late and iconic David Bowie. We were all convinced his hair was real and styled by Luis himself, and so we came to the conclusion that this is a hairstyle he should definitely pursue beyond Halloween.
Velma Dinkley & The Goblin King
Abi as Alice in Wonderland
Next we had a Halloween classic – Alice in Wonderland, sported by our General Manager Abi, who finished the look perfectly with white tights and a pair of black classic lace-up shoes. This was not just a costume, but a fantasy fashion statement, perfectly accompanied by Abi’s already-long, blonde hair!
Velma Dinkley & Alice in Wonderland
Sophia as Wednesday Addams
We had another fashion moment from Sophia, who dressed up as Wednesday Addams, specifically making reference to the latest Netflix series Wednesday. This look was spooky but stylish and perfectly exemplified that your existing wardrobe can hold many possibilities for Halloween costumes! More points were scored for her hairdo as she put them up in 2 neat plaits, flaunting the essence of Wednesday’s style.
Velma Dinkley & Wednesday Addams
Nina & Naomi as Satan
A famously low-cost, low-effort but effective Halloween costume – the devil horns. Nina brought some spooky spirit to the workplace with this sparkly red number, paired with her usual comfy, casual office fit. Naomi was meant to match but she forgot her horns at home (or so she says…), so Nina kindly lent hers to Naomi. This actually worked out for the best, because who wants two satanic Bookings Agents simultaneously roaming around the office?
The Devilish Bookings Team!
Robin as…Cher?
Next we had Robin as…we’re not exactly sure what, but let’s call it something ungodly. Melisa thought he was the Grand High Witch from the 1990 dark fantasy film The Witches, but apparently this was not the case. Robin’s Halloween costume was definitely the most scary (bloody frightening, to be honest) and therefore deserves plenty of recognition. He even decided to scare our pants off by knocking on the office door wearing the mask – we thought this was particularly cruel since we hadn’t yet had our morning coffees and could not bear the terror.
Lily as a black pug
And last, but most certainly not least, we had Lily come in as a black pug! Oh, wait… we’ve just been told that she is, in fact, a black pug. Never mind.
Velma Dinkley & Unknown Monster
So, who was the winner?!
And the winner for Best Dressed was…the Goblin King (Luis)! He was over the moon and was awarded a lovely bucket of Halloween treats (which we made him share with the rest of us…a trick indeed).
That’s all for now!
If you want to see all our Halloween costumes in a video, check out our TikTok video which judges each person’s fit here.
We hope you enjoyed reading all about our fantastically creative Halloween costumes. Can’t wait to see what everyone wears next year!
Welcome back to the 1st Option Locations blog! We thought we’d dedicate a whole post to the famous app TikTok. Never heard of it? Well, we think you’re lying. But if not… you’ve come to the right place (or so we like to think).
TikTok is an online social media platform, boasting an unlimited realm of short form video content. It has around 1 billion active global users (following Instagram, which sits just under 1.4 billion). The app, most popular amongst the youngsters (let’s say, predominantly Generation Z and Millennials), has been described as “a refreshing outlier in the social media universe”, and it’s here to stay for at least a few years longer.
The international version of TikTok was launched in 2017 and, because we at 1st Option are innovative, social media-savvy tech wizards, we hopped on the bandwagon in 2023…6 years later.
What do we share on TikTok?
As a photoshoot location agency, we’re all things creative media so, of course, TikTok is one of the platforms we utilise to promote our service and to build relationships with our location owners and clients. We share everything from exciting videos of our unique location houses, to events happening in the office and interviews with our team. The best part of being a photoshoot location agency is that we get to centre our content around so many spectacular properties that we have available for hire for filming and photography shoots. If you want to see what we’re talking about, take a quick look at some of our recent TikTok videos; click here to watch our interview with Account Manager Nina about her favourite photoshoot locations, and here to watch a compilation of beautiful videos taken at our luxury shoot location, Blue.
Melisa interviewing one of our Account Managers in the office
Who makes the videos?
Our Creative Team are the ones working the mystery that is TikTok. Creative Lead Sophia and Creative Assistant Melisa both contribute to our page; whether they’re visiting our location owners or pestering the 1st Option Locations team to audition for a role in the spotlight, they’re the ones creating and posting all the good stuff!
Sophia & Melisa before shooting at one of our locations!
What do you need to make TikToks?
It really is a relatively straightforward platform; all you’ll need is a smart phone, the TikTok app and some (actually, a lot of) time to spare! Some extra apps and features you can use to help spice up your content include the TikTok Desktop app and video editing software CapCut. CapCut is a super useful tool, offering a range of templates that are free to use, in which you can drag and drop-in your desired video clips. CapCut templates often come with an in-time groovy tune or a trending audio, but you’re always free to swap this out for another when it comes to finally posting your masterpiece. CapCut is definitely something to opt for if you’ve got lots of content in your bank that you’re not sure what to do with, or maybe you’ve just never edited videos before. Once you’ve used CapCut a few times, we’re sure that you’ll start feeling inspired and ready to go ahead with creating your own videos from scratch.
Not only has TikTok become an extremely popular platform, but other major social platforms like Instagram and YouTube have jumped on the bandwagon, and they’ve done a fair job. Instagram Reels have become increasingly popular and have proven a great way to increase traffic to your Instagram profile in a new and fun way. YouTube Shorts play a similar role; they can be tasters for channels and can be that small hit of content that users are seeking, without having to search for or sit through an entire long form video. However, since people typically tend to visit YouTube for longer content (I mean, that is its original, intended purpose) we can see why Reels and TikToks have generally found more success in this area (the reason being that their origins are centred around short, instant content).
Funnily enough, short form videos are not the only feature being snapped up by different platforms. For example, TikTok has nabbed Instagram’s Stories feature, and so has Facebook – albeit, neither have quite yet nailed it like Instagram.
Snapshots of 3 of our TikToks from September
Are we done yet?
Anyway, enough about everyone else – let’s talk more about us! So far, we’ve had so much fun making TikToks, and we’ll have lots more content out for the whole world to see over the next coming months. If you want to see our incredible photoshoot and filming location houses, our office giggles and even the odd interview-style video, then do check out our TikTok page here. And, while you’re immersed in your media, take a trip to our Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook pages to see what’s going on in the 1st Option digiverse.
That’s it from us about TikTok – we hope you enjoyed the read. We’ll see you on the next one (or preferably popping up in our TikTok Likes!).
