Nothing can be more simple and elegant than an all white palette-Its incredibly inviting but yet charmingly rustic.You can read more about my love for white interiors in my previous post -Wishlist Wednesday: White Living Rooms. Today’s wish list Wednesday will continue along the same vein and focus on modern,elegant, immaculate white living spaces.
All Images : Via.
-Ash.
Last year as I made the transition from student life to that of a working adult,I spend a lot of time and money in creating a functional working wardrobe.While I will continue to add trendy and classic items as we transition seasons for the most part I am happy with the wardrobe I have build-Its functional and classic and will be in style for many years to come.As a result my shopping sprees have slowed down and I have started to focus on other areas where I can make changes which will help me live a more meaningful and organized life.
One of the areas I want to focus on is my kitchen.Gradually I have been making changes like switching out my storage containers so that everything looks uniform and investing in some quality cookware and tools.
While the upfront initial investment required to buy quality kitchen tools and gadgets may seem expensive, in the long run it is worth it.With careful planning and budgeting to take advantage of yearly sales one can slowly build a functional kitchen without spending a fortune.
In addition to these upgrading my tools and cookware, I have been using generous amounts of good old elbow grease to clean out my shelf and drawers so that I can re-organize everything to be more organized and efficient.
I had bought quite a few drawer organizers about 6 months back but never got around to putting them to good use until recently when I re-organized my pantry shelves.I live with a roommate and we have divided the pantry into two halves-the top two shelves are mine while the bottom 3 are her’s.Given the space constraint I wanted to maximize the shelf space while keeping everything organized and functional.
I forgot to click a before picture-This is when I was halfway done removing all the items which were on the shelf.
To start the clean out process I emptied both the shelves and wiped everything with wipes and water.I used two large organizers to store things like pasta,snacks,vanilla,green tea-These are things which I use on an everyday basis.These two organizers went a the lower shelf that way its easy to reach for these heavily used items.
All the different sized containers are interlocking which makes this organization system super sturdy. I used 2 small containers to store Teavana tea (I store tea in ziploc bags) and another small container to store bhujia (An Indian savory snack which I eat quite often,which is why I wanted to keep it in the front).
I used the other two large organizers to store canned beans,olives,chick pea cans,salt and Indian spices (Once I open a bag of indian spices I store them in a ziploc bag).This went on the top shelf.
To store all the different kind of flours (spelt,white wheat and whole wheat) that I like to keep on hand I used a big bin.The OXO brand containers dont have high sides and I wanted a container with high sides that way the flour bags wouldn’t flop over.
Final Results:Bottom shelf-
In addition to the pasta tea and bhujia the bottom shelf also houses 6 large rubber maid containers (in two rows) which I use to store rice and oatmeal.
Top Shelf-
I also have a giant bag of tortilla chips kept on the top shelf-I am hoping out of (direct) sight will mean out of mind.
Do you have any tips on organizing your kitchen.I still need to find a solution to organize all my kitchen appliances and drawers.
-Ash.
In bits and pieces I have been updating my kitchenware and pantry (So be prepared to see a lot more kitchen organization posts).One of the changes I have wanted to make was investing in some heavy duty quality containers.Before this clean up I had been using a lot of different container sets (Ziploc round and square containers along with some random ones which I had accumulated over time).
I replaced all my old containers with a 24 piece set from Rubbermaid.I went with rubbermaid rather than ziploc becuase the rubbermaid containers nestle within each other easily which makes storing them easy.Another thing I really like about Rubbermaid containers is that their lids lock together when they are stacked which means that the early morning hunt to find a matching lid for my lunch box is eliminated.
In addition to the plastic container set, I also picked up 4 different glass sets for storing cooked meals and other items.Even though the Rubbermaid plastic containers are are BPA free,I prefer to store cooked food like vegetables,raitas and chutney’s in glass bowls.This set comes with 3 different sizes and I got it on sale b1g1 so each set was only $9.99 which I think is great for quality glass containers.
Happy Happy Friday!I am so glad that the weekend is here.
-Ash.
Quick Tip-I track items which I know I need to buy from Amazon with the free pricedrop google extension.Once you install the extension and start tracking items you get a notification if the price falls-that’s how I got the 24 piece rubbermaid set for about $11.
Slowly I have been upgrading my kitchen tools and cookware- replacing older pots and pans with new ones, cleaning out the cutlery drawer and making small face lifts.
Great cookware helps with heat distribution so that food gets cooked fast and evenly. I cook a lot and wanted to invest in kitchenware which is of high quality and will last. The very first upgrade I made is this 8 inch All clad fry pan. All clad is the Louis Vuitton of cookware. Everyone from Martha Stewart to top food magazines sing praises of the All Clad range.
All clad cookware is made in the United states and each piece of cookware has five bonded layers (2 layers of aluminium and 3 layers of stainless steel) which allows for even distribution of heat. I did a lot of online research and read a lot of reviews (some people have had their all clad cookware for over 10 years and it is still going strong)before making this purchase. I have used the pan a couple of times already and I have to say, I am impressed.
If there is a chef on your gift list and you really want to spoil them, gift them an item from the all clad cookware range.I am trying to stop using non-stick pans (because of the whole debate about non stick melting into your food) which is why I chose a pan with a brushed steel interior but if you love non-stick cookware all clad has that as well.
-Ash
When it comes to gift giving I believe, indulgent and luxurious is the way to go. I like to buy gifts which are slightly whimsical and decadent-things you normally wouldn’t buy for yourself but would love to receive as gifts. I have had the “Ralph Lauren-Greenwich” towels on my mom’s gift list for almost a year now.They are super plush and soft and getting them monogrammed with my mom’s name adds a great personal touch.
While towels are a pretty personal gift to give,I think they are a great gift to give especially to a family member.My mom is really hard to shop but these mono-grammed towels are a simple luxury I know she will really enjoy. Do you like practical gifts which you can use everyday or do you like slightly whimsical/luxurious gifts?
Monogrammed Ralph Lauren Towels-$13.99
Bookends-$35.
Anytime I buy something for my dad, he tells me he has everything and the only gift he wants from me is for me to be happy. Hands down he is one of the hardest people to shop for-I start thinking about his birthday gift month’s in advance.
When I saw these elephant bookends on My Habit.com (This sale happened a few weeks back and now the bookends are sold out-But TJ.Maxx,Home goods,Marshalls etc all generally have bookends) I knew they would make a great addition to my dad’s bookshelves. The number of books he has accumulated over the years is incredible-He loves to read.
If you have a avid reader on your gift list this year giving bookends as gifts are a great choice.Two other bookends which I have featured in previous posts-A Ceramic elephant and an owl bookend.
-Ash
(Once I was done clicking the pictures these bookends went right back into their box.I haven’t used them-Just in case you were wondering)
Sale Alert- If you have had a Mason Person brush on your wish list you can get a great deal on it through Beauty.com-I talk about it here.I just placed an order for mine yesterday night.Beauty.com’s F&F sale has been extended till sunday night.
-Ash.
A simple breakfast which I really enjoy on a cold fall morning is a slice of warm toasted bread with generous knob of butter drizzled with maple syrup-Its one of my fall weekend staples.
I am planning on using this super cute honey pot to store maple syrup.It easy to keep this and the butter dish on an elevated cake stand and quickly grab them in the morning to enjoy a leisurely weekend breakfast in bed.
What is your favorite breakfast?
(Another one of my fall favorite breakfasts is everything bagels with strawberry cream cheese-Yummm Yum!)
-Ash.
The honey pot can be bought here.
I have been really excited about Zara Home launching its online store in the US.Starting yesterday Zara home is now available in America.How cute are the door knobs?
-Ash
I subscribe to a lot of magazines but as they come in during the week I don’t have enough time to read them.Its only during the weekend’s that I slather on some face mask, put on some comfy socks and catch up on all my magazine subscriptions.
During the week I generally pile the magazines on my desk which creates un-necessary clutter..My new storage system eliminates this mess.Now a large caddy holds all the books and the magazines that I am currently reading.I have the caddy stored at the bottom shelf of my bedside table.This setting has two advantages-it creates more workspace on the table and if I am in the mood to read something before I sleep I can easily reach out and grab a book.
How cute is the cursive writing for some reason it reminds me of Paris.
Speaking of Paris I just booked tickets for my next holiday-I am excited 
.
-Ash.
On the weekend’s I love breakfast in bed.Even though it just me-I like to prepare a full tray complete with napkins and silverware.
A super cute home for butter is the perfect addition to my weekend breakfast tray.
Do you have breakfast bed or is it a strict no-no?(My grand-mom doesn’t like eating in bed-Breakfast is always on the table )
-Ash.
On a cool fall day I love coming home to an apartment which smells like cinnamon and apples.Right now I am on a candle buying ban because I have accumulated way to many candles, but I cant wait to finish them and indulge in all the new fall scents.
The one candle which almost made me break my candle shopping ban was Mahogany Teakwood-It smells like Damon Salvatore (Vampire Dairies Reference) or at least what I think Damon would smell like..lol.Speaking of TV shows did anyone watch the Grey’s premier episode-SPOLIER ALERT!!!!!!!!! I can’t believe they killed Mark 
.
Anyways hope you have a great friday-I am celebrating the start of the weekend by getting a mani-pedi and some fro-yo.
-Ash.
My new apartment has a bookcase-I and my roommate have slowly been personalizing it.We have been adding bits and pieces here and there-books of course,dvd’s,an owl bookend, a ceramic elephant and a sweet framed message from a friend.All of this has slowly made the bookcase one of my favorite corners at home-awhile back we added fairy lights to the bookcase (I know the holiday season isn’t here as yet) which I love turning on during the evening.
Here are few of the things which can help add intrest to a bookcase-
1.Books dont always have to be stored vertically-Mix it up.Store some of your books verticaly and the others horizontally.
2.Add pictures or photo frames with inspirational messages.A bookcase is not just for books-add your favourite items to it-ceramic figures,artwork,decortaive boxes and storage cubes-Personalize it to reflect your favorite things.
3.I havent tried this idea myself but think it is a great idea-Cover the back panel of your bookshelf with wall paper.
4.Switch out bookshelf decor-Bookshelves are such a great way to switch up room decor and add color.Sea inspired bookshelf decor would be perfect during the summer while during the holiday season fairy lights would look beautiful.
Read my previous post on interesting bookends (Wishlist Wednesday: Bookends,Books,Books shelves)
-Ash.
In a couple of months I will be moving again and I am planning on upgrading from the full size bed that I have right now to a king size one.Even though the move isn’t going to happen till early spring next year, I have already started prepping and planning for it-I know its a little OCD but I have always been a planner.
This super cute duvet cover in ombre dotted print is going to be perfect especially for the cooler spring and summer months-I plan on pairing it with white fitted sheets and navy accent pillows.
Hope everyone has a good Sunday.
-Ash.
A bookcase is so much more than just a home for books-Its a place where you can add knick knacks and photographs-personalize the space to showcase all your favorite things.
I am loving the element of interest this elephant adds to my bookshelf.
Happy Weekend Folks!
I have a super exciting activity planned for the weekend-I cant wait to tell you more about it come Monday.What are you doing this weekend?Any fun plans?
-Ash.
Cooler weather means warmer drinks-Spicy tea, creamy coffee with underlaying notes of hazelnut and last but certainly not the least chocolatey yummy warm cocoa.
I am loving these simple yet extremely elegant grey coasters.Having a warm cup of tea resting on one of these on my bedside table,while I write up this post is bringing a smile to my face-Its the small pleasures which make me happy.
What is your favorite cool weather drink-Filter Coffee,Pumpkin spice lattes or Mulled cider?
-Ash.
I adore white living spaces-They are extremely soothing and peaceful.Sometimes an all white living space can feel a little clinical but by incorporating color through freshly cut flowers,accent pillows and plush throws- an all white room is transformed from sterile living space to warm,inviting and cozy family room.
Previous Post Highlight-Wishlist Wednesday-Pillow talk.
-Ash.
All Images : Via.
My favorite scents are the light fruity citrusy ones and scents which contain underlying notes of apple.
Having a candle burning in the background while I potter about in the kitchen, cooking rajma (Rajma-Warm red bean stew.Recipe coming up soon) or baking bread while listening to old songs, is a perfect way to spend a few hours in the evening.
Scents I am burning right now-Pineapple Mango and Drenched Apple Flower .
What is your favourite candle scent- Do you like floral, musky or food scents (like apple crumble or caramel toffee) ?
-Ash.
My dream living room/entryway would be all white and combine clean minimalistic lines with a few rustic touches.One of the things that I absolutely want to have in my living room/entryway is a large homely natural jute/coir basket.It would serve as a catch all for all the miscellaneous odds and ends which one walks home with-mail,magazines,purse,umbrella etc.
Before I share with you, how I styled the large coir basket at my home-Here are some inspiration pictures.
I love the look of this basket-it the perfect addition to my entryway-In case you are wondering,I got mine from Z Gallerie.
What is the one thing you definitely want in your home-Rugs?Bookcase?I would love to know.
Previous Post Highlight-See the desk that,mum and I picked out when I was in India-Furniture and Books
-Ash.
I had a lot of work which I needed to catch up on, as result today evening was spent in bed, working-right through dinner.As a mini treat to myself,I decided to set up a proper meal complete with silverware and napkins which I carried to my bed using my breakfast tray.
A pretty mint green stone ring was what I used for the napkin.Setting up the dinner tray, even though it was a for a working dinner-made working into late evening seem decadent rather than stressful.
-Ash.
There is something so incredibly joyful about finding old fashioned ceramic fruit baskets in my fridge- overflowing with summer’s rich bounty-It invariably brings a smile to my face after a long day at work and provides me with an added impetus to make a healthy snack choice.
Check back later today for the second post of the day
Happy Tuesday!
-Ash.
Over the weekend I was home for the most part except for a quick run to West Elm and the grocery store.Once a year I update my linen closet-I throw out the over used bedding,shams, towels and replace them with brand new fluffy versions.
These king size shams from West Elm are amazing.They are a part of the ripple size quilt set and are perfect for my new pillows .
Unlike most shams which are made of 2 sheets of cotton sewn together, these shams are padded (There is layer of padding in the sham similar to a comforter)which makes the pillows even softer.
I am reclining on my new pillows which are covered by super soft shams, as I write up this post and am absolutely loving my new bedding arrangement.
Check back later today for the second post for today.
Happy Monday!
-Ash.
Nope!
I havent gone certifiably cuckoo and am not showing you random metal wires-Its a box full of kitchen organizers.
After a lot of thinking I decided to go ahead and invest in some good quality kitchen organizers which will last me awhile.Sharing the kitchen, with my room mate means space is premium- I am hoping that tiered organizers will help increase available space.I am going to be doing a more elaborate post showing which organizers I choose and why, soon so stay tuned.
-Ash.
