The Interior DIYer

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Thrifty things – 70’s satchel

Towards the end of my lunch break some weeks ago, I popped into one of the charity shops on my way back to work. As I was leaving, I spotted a 70’s style satchel in the mens section. I really liked it, and thought to myself – if it’s still there tomorrow, I’ll buy it. An “if its meant to be” deal. And would you believe – it was there the next day*. Not only is it awesome, but it’s very similar to an old burgundy luggage travel set my parents have.
I haven’t a clue what material this bag is made of, but it’s heavy duty. It’s sturdy and hasn’t worn at all, considering it’s around 40 years old at this stage. It also has a belt-style strap. I’ve been using this bag every day since I got it. Vincent’s charity shop, €2. Further proof of how awesome charity shops are.
*I may or may not have hidden said bag at the back of a clothes rack the day before.

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I will own you.

Through the power of positive affirmations, I may will own the following, one day:

Eames Lounge 670 and Eames Ottoman 671, designed by Charles and Ray Eames. 
   
Philippe Starck‘s Bedside Gun and Lounge Gun. Third lamp you don’t see – Table Gun. One of each please.

 LC3 single seater designed by Le Corbusier. A classic.

Bourgie lamp by Ferruccio Laviani. I’ve adored these lamps for years, and I still think they’re amazing.

Barcelona chair {plus ottoman, not pictured}, by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Yet another classic.

Day Bed by Eileen Gray. I’m surprised at how much I enjoy Eileen’s work. Represent. I hope to visit her E1027 home one day. But for now this {ridiculously expensive} day bed will do. 
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A rolling stone

I’ve wanted to make my first terrarium for a long time now. I have a terrible curse on my head that kills any plant that enters my care. For example, I recently bought a tiny hydrangea plant, and it’s barely hanging on. So this morning I was in a rather productive mood, and decided to gather the necessary materials to try my hand at moss. It’s very simple : all you need is a clean jar {preferably with a lid}, some pebbles, and some moss.
There are many types and variations of moss. Moss is a non-vascular plant and lack roots, leaves and stems and because of this, moss does not contribute to hay-fever or allergies. It has been used for centuries by the Japanese in gardens as it is believed moss brings a calm and contemplative state of mind {something we could all do with}.
There are a lot of good websites to give you tips on keeping moss {here’s one}. You can easily scoop up a tuft of moss within walking distance from your home. Place the moss {plus attached soil} in a jar. You will need to make sure the moss is packed and not too loose in your container, to ensure it takes on it’s new surroundings. Mist your moss when necessary, and since moss is quite hearty, it can be revived should it take a turn {fingers crossed}.
I took these pictures in my bathroom, since there’s very good light in it. But I’m beginning to think my terrarium looks really good on my cistern. And I think a cluster of terrariums would look even better …