summer is near

 

1 / New this week, this beautifully designed bracelet by Tone Vigeland. The geometric piece dates from about 1965 and was produced by her studio, Plus Norway. (more info)

2 / I’ve been noticing so many beautiful succulent arrangements in and around my hometown of Victoria, BC. They’re so bold and unusual; a perfect compliment to midcentury modern design.

3 / This 14k gold pendant designed by Finland’s Björn Weckström was originally titled “Minerva”. It was made in the late 70s, early 80s perhaps, and has that great rough hewn texture that Weckström was famous for. It reminds me of a primitive tooth or claw – such a lovely piece.  (more info)

Olaf Joff Vases from 1960s Norway

I have been very much enjoying these hefty stainless steel vases from Norway, c. 1960 designed by Olaf Joff. Their quirky brutalist style really reminds me of the jewellery of Guy Vidal. They’re great as sculpture on their own, but I think the pop of colour that the flowers contributes lightens everything up nicely. These lovely carnations came from my local supermarket!

Northern Lighting Acorn Pendant

Northern Lighting is a company which produces amazing lighting pendants and fixtures which are inspired by Nordic nature. The unique shapes and organic forms remind me of some of my favourite Scandinavian designs. Their “Acorn” pendant seen here is just lovely. The smooth charcoal or eggshell colours are perfect and I love the wood detail. Beautifully styling as well – I’m a sucker for succulents.

Via Funktionalley

long weekend on cortez island

I was lucky enough to spend this past May long weekend soaking up the sun to be found on the west coast island known as Cortes. I wasn’t sure what to expect of this little gulf island that is home to 1000 residents. Between the sun, fresh shucked oysters, white sand beaches, and amazing variety of plant and flower life, I was very much sold!

One of the beautiful structures found on the Linnea Public Library property.

A lovely visit to Hollyhock, home to a world-renowned garden and oceanside retreat.

Oh, the flowers!

Content + sun dazed.

gourds + soft pink

1/ white beams + pia wallen cross blanket (via)

2/ dried gourd pendant light (via)

3/ beautiful tones

 

copper details + flush ferns

1 / nesting tables + copper details (via)

2 / flush ferns (via)

3 / architectural stair case + leather eames (via)

new arrivals

A few exciting new arrivals to start off the new year. Maybe the Chinese new year, more accurately? At any rate, voila!

1 / Enamel and bronze ring designed by Hannu Ikonen. The enamel detailing is a rare element in his designs. I think the deep blue of the enamel compliments the warm bronze so beautifully.

2 / Rare design by Jorma Laine for Kultateollisuus Ky of Finland. Such charming and unusual “iconography” from the ever-mysterious Laine.

3 / Tapio Wirkkala’s “Omena” (apple) pendant in its rare, largest size. When it arrived, I literally gasped at how beautiful it is. Wirkkala’s designs truly have to be felt to be appreciated. The delicate movement of the inner ring, the airy, hammered surface texture shine in person. The original chain is the perfect finishing touch.

new arrivals – november

A lovely bunch of Arbutus Tree berries which are colouring the West Coast at the moment.

November is upon us! Lots of new arrivals being added on Hopea over the next few weeks, including these lovely finds:

1 / Haglund Studio Sweden bracelet from 1945. 

2 / Rare Tapio Wirkkala “Crescent Moon” earrings from Finland, 1972.

3 / Anton Michelsen gilded gold porcelain pendant from the “Royal Bini” collection of 1968.

fall arrives

The fall has descended rather rapidly this year on Vancouver Island. The cold rains are washing away my memories of the once uncomfortable heat of my attic room. A move away from salads and towards ratatouille. Settling into wool jackets and long sleeps. I’m into it!

Lots of new arrivals being added over at Hopea just in time for the holiday season to start. Be sure to check in!

1 / Rare “Kyoto” ring in 14k gold designed by Björn Weckström.

2 / Owe Johannson bracelet. Finland, c. 1970. (Available here.)

2 / Hans Hansen bracelet in 14k gold. Denmark, c. 1960.

 

ullas – lini of sweden

A few weeks ago, I came across a fantastic vintage Swedish wall hanging in a local pawn shop here in Victoria. A quick search turned up a few more lovely prints that are signed “Ullas – Lini of Sweden”. I just love the colours and bold graphics.