Book Review: The New Book Of 'So Leb Ich'

'So leb ich' is a wonderful statement. It is resolute, sound and individual. It literally means 'That's how I live'. But 'So leb ich' is not only the title of the new book, it is actually the name of a very successful German interiors community. In fact it is the largest interiors community in the German speaking parts of Europe. Founded back in 2007 by interior designer Nicole Maalouf this community has attracted thousands of interior fans to share pictures of their homes and inspire each other. And right now the second book of the community has been launched with the full title: 'Das neue SoLebIch-Buch für ein schönes Zuhause' (the new SoLebIch-book for a beautiful home). And it is packed with beautiful inspiration.

Over 190 pages burst with 245 photographies of numerous homes beautifully styled and decorated by its dwellers. The book's charm lies in the magic of such interior communities - they showcase authentic homes, styled, decorated and photographed by mere mortals - no glossy finishings, no sophisticated dashes of this and that, no big photo editing. 

The book is structured into rooms - the reader is being welcomed through the hallway, passes the kitchen, the dining room, the living room, enters the home office, the bedroom and finally the nursery.  Each chapter is opened by an enticing illustrations by Larissa Bertonasco. Moreover, every picture is described, the participating community members are being quoted throughout the book and the content is enriched with additional trend descriptions, design classics information and DIY tips - including hints that more background information is available online on www.SoLebIch.de.

I've been going through the book over and over again and I really must admit that I love it. I adore the authenticity and personality of every photograph, I love the book's layout, its touch and feel. On one hand, it is informative and helpful, on the other hand it is as inspiring and beautiful as a coffee table book. If you are an interior design aficionado like me, you will love this book equally - no matter whether you understand German or not. You can buy a copy HERE.

Have an inspiring Thursday, my dear friends!

Photography by Igor Josifovic

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Why This Room Caught My Eye

Let me start with a question: Who has a dining room at home? Please raise your hand (the blogger way of raising your hand with a little comment). Why do I ask? Well, first of all because I would love to have a proper dining room where I could enjoy delectable meals and host friends with home cooked dinner. Secondly, because a very beautiful dining room styling has caught my eye today. It is the work of my favorite German interior design team, Studio Oink.

They are currently designing an entire modern apartment and this is the dining room. I love the serene colour scheme, the sophisticated materials and surfaces and the juxtaposition of cool-modern with timeless-vintage. A particular eye-catcher is the stunning beach photography serving as wall art and adding a refined touch to this dining space. But let me put it down in bullets:

• Beach photography: Have you noticed the growing trend of large sized photography as wall art? This beach photo is an excellent example of how impactful such art can be in an interior space.
• Clear Glass Pendant: I really like the clear glass pendant used as a lighting solution in this interior setting. It perfectly matches the beach scene in the background and adds a translucent dimension to this grown-up styling.
• Ceramics: I can't exactly tell if all of those beautiful pieces on the table are made of ceramics but it looks a lot like it. The combination of white and smoky blue is an excellent choice in this styling and the delicate shapes perfectly counteract the furry sheepskin on the chair.

Is this dining room catching your eye too?

Photography & styling by Studio Oink

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