Getting Creative with Jute Upholstery Webbing

<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnVVdDZYJI/AAAAAAAAC88/dWiezZ6BXhM/s1600-h/Webbing+table+runner-tara+dennis.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366554995541500050" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnVVdDZYJI/AAAAAAAAC88/dWiezZ6BXhM/s400/Webbing+table+runner-tara+dennis.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 284px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Tara Dennis</span></div><div align="center">With so much focus on burlap and antique grain sacks we are starting to see a trend using other utilitarian products in home decor. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460269181535042" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_Lp3QA0I/AAAAAAAAC6s/QVajdmtYkpU/s400/Webbing+-+jute.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 351px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">google</span></div><div align="center">Lately I have started to notice jute upholstery webbing, usually hidden inside sofas and chairs, in the most unexpected places. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366546942634836130" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnOAto1QKI/AAAAAAAAC8s/30l19j-Wxn0/s400/bench+V%26L.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />I was just over at Velvet and Linen admiring the new bench that Steve <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Giannetti</span> had made for a client in Maine. The bench top is woven with jute upholstery webbing. It reminded me of my Father. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460778079298082" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_pRp7oiI/AAAAAAAAC68/hqiH0b66E1U/s400/webbing+chair.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 343px; CURSOR: hand" /> <a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://thelongthread.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/chair-renovation.jpg&imgrefurl=http://thelongthread.com/%3Fcat%3D7&usg=__kUXQfJRd1Ni-IZzJRAMH7IqTC_8=&h=432&w=504&sz=93&hl=en&start=69&um=1&tbnid=j0cw0SM8ayT2jM:&tbnh=111&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Djute%2Bwebbing%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GGLL_enUS302US302%26sa%3DN%26start%3D60%26um%3D1"><span style="font-size:78%;">The Long Threads</span></a><br /><div align="center">Many years ago my father found a huge box of upholstery webbing at the dump. As a child of the depression, and not one to waste, he rightly scooped it up and brought the box home. Similar to the photo above, he took chairs with broken rush seats, probably also acquired from the same dump, and wove new seats out of the webbing. We used them for years in our cottage on the Cape. Click the picture link to learn how to do it yourself.</div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460784811308482" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_pqu99cI/AAAAAAAAC7E/wfhIT_3LNBQ/s400/webbing+chairs.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" /> Of course it wasn't a unique idea-Scandinavian designers have been using cloth webbing for ages. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460787940517234" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_p2ZB5XI/AAAAAAAAC7M/6Y3JSor5CqE/s400/webbing+retromodern.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 283px; CURSOR: hand" />Both photos above from Retro <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Moderne</span> give you the basic idea. <div align="center"><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366545930285940242" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnNFyWC_hI/AAAAAAAAC8c/1uxI2AfXXEA/s400/webbing+pillows+bhg.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div><span style="font-size:78%;">Better Homes and Gardens</span></div><div>But I am really intrigued when I see the upholstery webbing in more unexpected places. Here are some fabulous pillows -adding some webbing is a simple way to bring the burlap look into your home.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366461370773527698" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmALxnP3JI/AAAAAAAAC7c/qdeaAD5dFwg/s400/webbing+little+byrd+vintage.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Little Byrd Vintage</span></div><div>This pillow above is wrapped with one length of webbing. The webbing costs about .50 cents a yard - so wrapping the pillow this way is very inexpensive. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366553985115793250" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnUao7Ip2I/AAAAAAAAC80/gIGdeU2Yziw/s400/Webbing+table+runner-tara+dennis.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 284px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Here is a fabulous jute table runner from <a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.taradennis.com.au/Portals/10/Create/TD_1859.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.taradennis.com.au/create/jutetablerunner/tabid/999/Default.aspx&usg=__zep0QPFS7O0Ez5JmOj3xgKgiz8c=&h=409&w=290&sz=70&hl=en&start=30&um=1&tbnid=nOW70sWCIrvBDM:&tbnh=125&tbnw=89&prev=/images%3Fq%3Djute%2Bwebbing%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GGLL_enUS302US302%26sa%3DN%26start%3D20%26um%3D1">Tara Dennis</a>. Click on the link to learn how to craft this yourself.<br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366461378474363954" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmAMOTRTDI/AAAAAAAAC7k/U6Tcdh068U0/s400/Webbing+MS.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 337px; CURSOR: hand" /> Always in the front of pack in terms of trends is <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/good-thing/upholstery-webbing-runner?">Martha Stewart</a>, with this lovely webbing hall runner. The link will also show you exactly how to make one for your home.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460793041602434" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_qJZOR4I/AAAAAAAAC7U/I3gL8kBS0E4/s400/WEBBING+-fLIKR.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>If you're feeling really crafty you could stitch up a few of these jute webbing napkin rings. </div><br /><div>Learn how to make these at <a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3035/2676034114_28deaa43ea.jpg&imgrefurl=http://vintageindie.typepad.com/vintage_indie/2008/09/what-you-make-1.html&usg=__quiDQ7UKwrbbfMtbxKGY5nARbVQ=&h=500&w=500&sz=173&hl=en&start=36&um=1&tbnid=2rpFM-AQNqRIPM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Duphlostery%2Bwebbing%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GGLL_enUS302US302%26sa%3DN%26start%3D20%26um%3D1">Vintage</a><a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3035/2676034114_28deaa43ea.jpg&imgrefurl=http://vintageindie.typepad.com/vintage_indie/2008/09/what-you-make-1.html&usg=__quiDQ7UKwrbbfMtbxKGY5nARbVQ=&h=500&w=500&sz=173&hl=en&start=36&um=1&tbnid=2rpFM-AQNqRIPM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Duphlostery%2Bwebbing%26ndsp%3D20%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GGLL_enUS302US302%26sa%3DN%26start%3D20%26um%3D1"> Indie</a>-</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460773362714578" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_pAFaR9I/AAAAAAAAC60/IgjhhVyLGmA/s400/webbing+at+anthropologie.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 375px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 302px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">ahn min</span></div><div>I prefer the webbing when it is woven. This is a photo of a display wall in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Anthropologie</span>. Not sure how this would translate in everyday living, but its an interesting look.</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366461385350362178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmAMn6otEI/AAAAAAAAC70/KDGZexXvd88/s400/webbing+Velvet+and+linen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>This is the back of wonderful headboard designed by Steve <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Giannetti</span>. It is so pretty I think I might want to display it this way. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366473385439770770" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmLHHu5uJI/AAAAAAAAC8E/WY3drm_Xi30/s400/webbing+V%26L+bench.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>Here is another shot of Steve's bench. You can learn more about both projects at Velvet and Linen. The headboard <a href="http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/velvet_and_linen/2009/06/velvet-and-burlap.html">here</a> and the bench <a href="http://brookegiannetti.typepad.com/velvet_and_linen/2009/08/benched.html">here.</a></div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366545921955378466" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnNFTT4tSI/AAAAAAAAC8M/aNJ0lcgnxi4/s400/webbing+dog+bed-greenopia.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 337px; CURSOR: hand" />This little pooch looks happy on his new upholstery webbing bed - very clever!<br />You can find instructions to make your own at <a href="http://jezzeblog.blogspot.com/2009/04/dog-bed.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Jezze</span><br /></a><div><br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366461384939926786" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmAMmYx9QI/AAAAAAAAC78/LD3pDdPLBOs/s400/webbing_grommets_ties_lg-northeast+stage.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><span style="font-size:78%;">northeast stage<br /></span><div>I really like the webbing detailing on this curtain - great for a play room.</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366460265021175138" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snl_LaXV9WI/AAAAAAAAC6k/UsVAKkLbFVg/s400/webbing" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 268px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>Here the webbing is used as a background for art at the <a href="http://shabbynest.blogspot.com/">Shabby Nest</a>.</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366545929364011074" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnnNFu6PeEI/AAAAAAAAC8U/a_Cw759kKr8/s400/webbing+etsy.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 368px; CURSOR: hand" />Here is an interesting bag from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hoganfe</span>, a seller on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Etsy</span>. The webbing is used around the drawstring top. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmAMXxRvDI/AAAAAAAAC7s/mwLhy_6ymzs/s1600-h/WEBBING+-SADIE+OLIVE.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366461381016140850" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnmAMXxRvDI/AAAAAAAAC7s/mwLhy_6ymzs/s400/WEBBING+-SADIE+OLIVE.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 440px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 340px; CURSOR: hand" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p align="center">Finally we see a mix of webbing used in other ways from <a href="http://sadieolive.blogspot.com/">Sadie Olive </a>- to the left is a memo board weaved with webbing and the lower right picture shows the webbing wrapped around a stack of antique books. Charming.</p><p align="center">I'd love to hear about any other creative uses for this inexpensive material!</p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Check out Southern Hospitality for other great ideas <a href="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/another-week-of-thrifty-treasures/">here </a>!!</span></p>

Getting Creative with Jute Upholstery Webbing

Tara Dennis With so much focus on burlap and antique grain sacks we are starting to see a trend using other utilitarian products in home de...

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Indian Architecture and Art-Decor of a bygone Era - Part I

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*The </span><st1:placename st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Padmanabhapuram</span></st1:placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><st1:placetype st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Palace</span></st1:placetype><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> is one of the most magnificent monuments of the erstwhile</span><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Travancore</span></st1:placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><st1:placetype st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kingdom</span></st1:placetype></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. It is situated in Kanyakumari district, 15 km from Nagercoil,Tamilnadu and 55 km South-West of Thiruvananthapuram.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*The Padmanabhapuram palace was the seat of power of the rulers of Travancore.The name refers to the image of the lotus coming form the navel of Vishnu(Padma-lotus,Nabha-Navel,Puram-Town)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*The palace is known for its planning and military architecture and remained the center of power till 1790, when the capital was shifted to Thiruvananthapuram.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*The main attractions of the </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Padmanabhapuram</span></st1:placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><st1:placetype st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Palace</span></st1:placetype></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> are its sheer aesthetic beauty, murals, innovative designs and time tested wooden carvings.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Palace complex continue to be the best examples of traditional Kerala architecture, and some portions of the sprawling complex are also the hall mark of traditional Kerala style building art.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*The complex consists of individual structures linked by corridors,</span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #555555;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">colonnades, verandahs, courts constructed of teakwood and granite and stands,courtyards within the massive stone walls of 30 ft which kept Tipu Sultan at bay in the 18th century. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Exquisite wall paintings, fascinating traditional Kerala architecture, floors finished to a high polish with a special compound of crushed shells, coconuts, egg-white and juices of local plants; sunny courtyards with carvings and sculptures are some of the outstanding features of this sprawling palace housed within fortified walls.</span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tjRgjVbSUQrWvbYooIu0j7GwhiSDBzoWokxucVluaKqcAe8ig9WkkDZLtwNaAYriFuKz0PJcB4vT9uA3aEs8UQeQgHllu98xTOMQ43w76bs5ytG5fxyCxx7k6uqQDSzkgefxgIu9PS8/s1600-h/IMG_5370+copy.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614846573060098" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tjRgjVbSUQrWvbYooIu0j7GwhiSDBzoWokxucVluaKqcAe8ig9WkkDZLtwNaAYriFuKz0PJcB4vT9uA3aEs8UQeQgHllu98xTOMQ43w76bs5ytG5fxyCxx7k6uqQDSzkgefxgIu9PS8/s400/IMG_5370+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br /><div><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365612402148636130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfesvK0GLk33LwMceHJt6dhJ0-F-l7jPTFpHqMDz4cBNgy0AICLpNNtNZmIUhOHa4v29J9LwH0SjREdaPvo9Lf1ToLY5yEOXCQkb78R7yGuqc6SaYnNt_3PNJEmQfX0bAyq-GHSgtpYM/s400/IMG_5081+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365612386844587042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4s1A4cPqcihQJ3NB_EyOL6CdPc8ZGgOBdoGqSS4wqo7tPhazPk13ZvnsBPYWD9Rexn7AzSmF0HxKUiYhJx3eR2baMazXHz5D-zEqR90a8N5mLwgyuRxlgzDtbeCJG4fd_WZo1oOPohg/s400/IMG_5036+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 302px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The palace has its main entrance from the west. The 'padipura' or the main gate</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">reached after crossing a large courtyard, displays an ornamented gabled roof.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365619048646095522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5X59RdeXUOcfHmzWg-KKEagvUCVI8NPNUGPof0dBNhdU7IjMDCM2fZiSQavdlhd7hoV27257LRoSC4t9y1cC5RCCP0clZucFvES7QUE7KOJ2esNdi6MtRyxJu86_6d8SpjfGjGGk0TEY/s400/IMG_5102+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365613358205588322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGddR5r-RbSRjB4g6O0qZwDcr0DxV9T3tw4jqNYcOEq-XXDieRaR07g-7GnC-h_WOkVPfdRJoAQ_Uz4CQGs87hxbyDZlXqfsSJyKO707GGSCD9hrbKfMT4fjYR-5v0rXuG0KJ19zMeSLY/s400/IMG_5109+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365612400506497682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6NxTv8AlKoRibSaDwwxEdDJvxMhlB-Gbi7tOWdQrYRDUGChguOp_rTM59iiCw5hurTeFJL4FMDO2FyinbmR0PBxhAXS0KRATbV-wY8wCtEaup2UrdJW8CuI1GHCtoWVBN4p-KGIbNqI/s400/IMG_5079+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 326px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The 'Pumukham', inside the second court, has a profusely carved rosewood and mahogany ceiling with 90 different inverted flowers, a polished granite bed in one corner and an ornate Chinese throne.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365612393915339890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBHYuBjcuYcauIZl-qscdIRC1BZPXHAttsU4KqflzIXSAnxglKlOfXnJ0Vxdh86903s446eIaTKpBdTB-fjVVgnvPBV2o-Kk_mSCPjVGXQd5T3djUoXdWo_vYQZD9k0biDpfyaLPogRM/s400/IMG_5064+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365612410951882290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvziXXwr8BeefxgXGSzFc06px8SFhTZ4MLNenc3QGKz1WeJejMt9teQ8yObVyZDmFCRXJGjVTbRo7hDPmxHxmTCXZ4LAuhYdiAC_k9z6Z3T74IPuMfJZHuXi4IVwyjCYf-N2rOnMV4tg4/s400/IMG_5093+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There is an audience hall on the upper level of the two storeyed building with circular wooden columns and angled timber screens to let in light and air.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365613371792307346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVj9p7iZBhVwUpiNpE5u0z_mf82yyVQ0zqDmEsObJ5ahPtTWQqWbb8QBBvE-b2A9v6QNVQJ9ixA2hIh2fsO56J6qL3XtrMy-oQhXSTEr3pox2awiLysBPveKidKwbJeekXYBoJq_dJ2JI/s400/IMG_5152+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365613359502629746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9TyS8ch2ocwNDwCOwGOq0EBZrtT76F1NBCdSCJTbog_jlaQk9XedLfd51BzmEYhh1Xwmnz5RsyKAYvIWZmfm4_gDejm6-5dbwxUV5Wn2_RCKVFDD7QVZpiFuh4KxzJocsVnFWtelEl_A/s400/IMG_5145+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Ootupura or the dining hall is adjacent to the third court.Over 2000 meals were served free meals in this grand dining hall ona daily basis. Each storey accomodates 1000 people and there are two storeys.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365613379772690114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBlBvJXBxUG_oJvGjYmzMDTlnLh_l8J7Okvyvp7qYNvtXRCH9jN62I3iURryDV7YkFrnghEZJP2b1JdRtQdOVs2zOOPf1nqH1sRHFJNBcen0PvJLPWhY00J6WaJs0W4AxiBZPFpb3-Lw/s400/IMG_5155+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365613384485105330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNNatH-jKdRa7HtjYhNcMwwYb14T_FH15tfoWeIoG4sCs5sc5pY4_0Y9Wa0d1SFNkmIY16aUzRkY2c08D9wfqrV_Gc-V9F3JbJitVvIpvmtDr7sK1YkQqzAC4uphcp9x4HBEWtndGLvk/s400/IMG_5180+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614816748872370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SUctE_Kmp9gxNGKOVprf927ntPpshk76GnATyTdSWFy2vJp_94gSO-BbHriGsuRvBgyH4qbbhEXRE4BqAXyG3BOtQ_zSCczLCzAFv1JNbyPhE6WHB2ggBB0kkBEWa30LcWOiqwsbIno/s400/IMG_5204+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The third court marks the beginning of the private zone of the palace. Here, on the north of 'Pilamottu Kottaram' is 'Upparikka Malika' (upper storey) or the Perumal Kottaram.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Its four chambers, arranged one above the another, connected by steep steps, served as a treasury on the ground floor, the royal sleeping chamber on the second floor,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">the royal meditation chamber and shrine room on the fourth floor.There is also a four poster medicinal bed of 64 ayurvedic healing woods here, many presented by the Dutch.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">On days of penance, His Highness took rest on the third floor, which also served as his prayer room.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614821570722402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtJTzzdI3WSE8y3ev4uH3q3mEAu8_CIRI928XKB5JgjjJarcUFRtchjl7zinFAhq_J29qaioopsYlfVQbCva-0XOngB8QZFoiUX7acfg8axVYnQ4_NLl3En0CZHUIlhI76ly-WS0BD74M/s400/IMG_5238+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 267px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The 18th century Kerala murals on the walls remains unblemished even after centuries and surpass even those at Mattancherry palace in </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kochi</span></st1:city></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614836494378178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZaApd7X7CK6__Oof6Kyl8BKgkssRMRoIw6S21MMd6IPq7kBwkhwZlvdRM17NqjasIoX0hsVW71tVgxI11x0sECU6zI_bwrIpAE_EtGa4QSDGrR4gmimWS9DKiuuHpppdXBnxJCMg190/s400/IMG_5284+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The huge guest house and also adds up as a summer palace ,stood grand in front of us.Another architecture marvel.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365614838533030466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYreQPNc2K4OmqfNncx-OVngWEpAME8reVR1LUfePA_fTGixVE_yZtolJdebcPMzqof5DWBEvNlNX6vJrF3l4nDv9PRa-3BTIgSkqTlHDmZNAiso2MoQc_x3v9l7klxddoYMretKM9cZs/s400/IMG_5347+copy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Navaratra Mandapam an imposing granite structure is probably the most beautiful part of the </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Padmanabhapuram</span></st1:placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><st1:placetype st="on"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Palace</span></st1:placetype></st1:place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*Each room in the palace has its own characteristic style.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*A tour through the maze of 108 rooms leaves one breathless at the artistic expression and sheer opulence of these magnificent rooms.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This post is just a birds eye view of the Magnificient palace which will leave a long lasting experience.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Wait for more details of the Palace in the next post.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Read more experiences in </span><a href="http://celebrations-of-life.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Celebrations of Life</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div></div></div>

Indian Architecture and Art-Decor of a bygone Era - Part I

*The Padmanabhapuram Palace is one of the most magnificent monuments of the erstwhile Travancore Kingdom . It is situated in Kanyakumari ...

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A Renovated Farmhouse in Belgium

<div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724374333028802" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbh477GecI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/zrT7S3nPKG0/s400/Fruit+Farm+1a.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /> Outside of the busy city of Antwerp, Belgian antiques dealer and designer, Henri Charles <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hermans</span></span> and his wife Natasha <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hermans</span></span>, also a designer, decided to relocate their business and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">their</span> home to this wonderful 19<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span></span> century Farm. Henri Charles <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hermans</span></span>, who once worked and studied under the famous Axel <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vervoordt</span></span>, found this property to be the perfect canvas to showcase the couples wonderful minimalist Belgian design style.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724395626277458" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbh6LPzqlI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/uOpzcnrcyS4/s400/fruit+Farm+1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">Formerly a fruit farm in the Belgian countryside, it took several years to restore the home. Above the outdoor pool is filtered naturally by aquatic plants.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724370736275970" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbh4uhkYgI/AAAAAAAAC5I/vi7ZaJYnHXg/s400/fruit+farm+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center">The living room has wonderful bleached, then waxed herringbone floors. I love the mix of the hand plastered walls, and antique floors and doors, with the straight lines of the furniture by Jules <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wabbes</span></span>, and contemporary art over the fireplace by Jacques <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Denef</span></span>.</div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724078709161730" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbhnuo4PwI/AAAAAAAAC4w/1TNYlBLOY7o/s400/Fruit+Farm+3.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 261px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 366px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">The kitchen also continues this look by combining a thick oak antique farm table and waxed <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">bluestone</span></span> floors with contemporary light fixtures. The back wall of the kitchen is painted ebony to highlight the couples antique stoneware collection.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724080275916082" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbhn0ebBTI/AAAAAAAAC5A/5AIuSLTgPDA/s400/Fruit+Farm+5.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 242px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center">The main hall showcases a wonderful limed oak cabinet which houses collections of glassware and Khmer vases.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365733553862903362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbqPQVkhkI/AAAAAAAAC6A/lRdpmM9Foks/s400/Fruit+Farm+4.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /></div>This is a lovely perspective of entry, kitchen, and living room from the main hall. The French doors bring wonderful light into the space.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365725518569758002" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbi7iiZXTI/AAAAAAAAC5w/T6UrPHbmRZo/s400/Fruit+stair.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /> The stark simplicity of the stairway is just beautiful. Notice the first step and is carved stone and the rusted iron railing. The furnishings echo the simplicity of the space.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365725514434049042" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbi7TIXdBI/AAAAAAAAC5o/4WsGtcb1ouI/s400/fruit+bed.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /> An attic bedroom is the epitome of minimalism, with a Belgian twist. The antique bench at the foot of bed is covered in antique linen.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723726601391506" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhTO72DZI/AAAAAAAAC4g/kHcWVXcVJ9E/s400/Fruit+Farm+5b.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center">The bathroom with all white walls is the perfect backdrop for the gorgeous, antique zinc bath tub.</div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365724398037547378" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbh6UOsuXI/AAAAAAAAC5g/5DZEkra5fcM/s400/Fruit+Farm4A.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 367px; CURSOR: hand" /> Here is a close up the of the Empire style zinc bathtub- notice the spectacular patina set off by the rustic milking stool.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365725522130905938" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Snbi7vzcK1I/AAAAAAAAC54/tSvseO7Yz5I/s400/Fruit+wood.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 249px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 376px; CURSOR: hand" /> In another hallway is a wonderful compilation of antique wood: oak table holds a walnut bowl filled with burl wood balls.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723730383693106" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhTdBnZTI/AAAAAAAAC4o/Gll8SUm51qI/s400/Fruit+Farm+5a.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /> Hanging in the family room above the antique mantel is an artwork piece of ink writings from an ancient Hindu prayer book. The art work hides the television. Low trestle coffee table and linen slip covered sofas round out the Belgian style.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723719341784114" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhSz5BPDI/AAAAAAAAC4Y/ddTQZdzrLxg/s400/Fruit+farm+7.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /> Antique marble topped bistro table and linen covered sofa look lovely. Waxed concrete floors and french doors open to the the outdoor terrace.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723429580179618" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhB8ceCKI/AAAAAAAAC4A/Q7aMmEJe6aE/s400/Fruit+Farm+8.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>The beautiful facade of the house with pruned boxwood in planters and traditional boxwood hedge.</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723434460512578" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhCOoCAUI/AAAAAAAAC4I/nOpfisE6cic/s400/Fruit+Farm+9.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 360px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div>A pair of limestone dodecahedron (12 sided) pediments are believed to ward off bad luck.</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365723437212376562" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SnbhCY4IHfI/AAAAAAAAC4Q/MOZlKB_RHbM/s400/Fruit+Farm+10.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" /> What a lovely garden terrace. Fabulous antique table and twig style chairs make for perfect outdoor dining.</div><div align="left">.</div><div></div><div>I think the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hermans</span>'</span> minimalist Belgian style is just beautiful- what do you think?</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>

A Renovated Farmhouse in Belgium

Outside of the busy city of Antwerp, Belgian antiques dealer and designer, Henri Charles Hermans and his wife Natasha Hermans , also a des...

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