We're still renting and I'm actually starting to be ok with that. We have the same struggle as so many other people, which do you choose - location or space? I can't commit to buying in the suburbs right now even though I'm renting in them and enjoying it at the moment- but I do long for the city ALL THE TIME! Meeting friends was so easy, we were spoiled for choice with restaurants and never needing to use the car was such a bonus! So basically, I'm still holding on to the Portobello dream! In the meantime Pinterest is where I plan my life. My completely unrealistic life I might add but it's what keeps me going!

Every evening I trawl through the endless images of amazing homes and imagine what I would do with mine (i'm pretty sure I'll need a lotto win at this stage though!) Years ago I was drawn to vintage florals, antique furniture and I suppose shabby chic - but I feel my overall style has changed so much over the years and this has seeped into my house style too!

I've definitely moved more towards simple decor without being a full on minimalist. I just love that laid back California interior. Contrasting whites and pops of colour. Clean white walls, vintage Moroccan style rugs and colourful lamps. A touch of Mexican with some mid-century pieces and a sprinkle of wicker (Yes, you heard correctly, WICKER!) It's modern bohemia in all it's glory and it gives me all the feels!

What I love about this style is the fact that all the basics are really neutral so nothing here is a big commitment. It looks and feels clean and fresh but you can still bring personality into it. It's all about collecting pieces that you love, the quirkier the better!

Creating a shelving area to display all your favourite things can turn a wall into a feature. White shelving on white walls will make everything you place on it really stand out. Let your objects do the talking! Colourful books, pretty house plants and unusual vases can all make this space really interesting. Picking an accent colour and dotting things around in that colour will really make it pop. It shouldn't feel too "styled' so make sure you love each piece. That should make it feel homely but still look considered.

A fireplace is where you can do something totally different and really turn it into a show stopper! I love the idea of exposed brick painted white or a fun tiled one! How beautiful do these both look?

Placing colourful cacti and succulents around the house gives it a really fun element. If you are like me and struggle to keep anything alive then these are perfect as they are low maintenance (believe me, I've put these babies to the test!). Greenery and plants placed throughout your home will add an earthy feel. It really brings the outside in and let's face it when you live in Ireland this is a biggie!

I've popped some lovely pieces below that I'm currently lusting after and they are available to shop now! So even though you can hear the wind and rain howling outside, just kick back and pretend the California sun is beaming down on you!

J x