So mee...

Talking about...

2012-02-14T07:58:00.001+01:00

Talking about black and white with the wooden dash, LOVELY isn´t it?

All images products to be found at Kvist.

Black & white (with a dash of wood)

2012-02-14T07:33:00.001+01:00

Black and white combined is always chic and by adding a some wooden elements to it, I think it is even lovelier. The black and white calendar from Hay is still one of my favourites, but I think it is taken out of production :-(. I can´t seem to find it anywhere...

These images are a few in a series we did for Bonytt magazine earlier this year.

Photography: Trine Thorsewww.trinethorsen.comn

Styling: Kirsten Visdal

I´m in love

2012-02-12T10:09:00.000+01:00

with this beautiful ceramic from Höganäs Keramik, designed by the Swedish design team Front, launched in 2010. I would love the teapot, in white matt or white blank (the grey I could also go for!), I can´t really decide... And of course the bowl, the coffee and tea mugs and the small plates that goes with. In 2011 they added more products to the series, and soon the new pitcher (bottom image) will be added and seen in the stores.

Images found on hoganaskeramik.se www.hoganaskeramik.se

Getting closer...

2012-01-21T19:21:00.001+01:00

There´s only ten more days of this month before we hit February, and only a month until my first workshop this spring. If you would like to know more about your camera, how to have control over your images using shutters, f-stops and ISO, learn how to get the perfect light and maybe shoot white on white, this is a workshop for you! On March 3rd.and 4th., in beautiful Bikuben, approximately 1 hour drive from Oslo, you are able to learn all that and a whole lot more.

Sound interesting? Send me an email for more information and prices.

PS! The workshop will unfortunately be held in Norwegian only.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Time flies (when your having fun!)

2012-01-18T23:06:00.000+01:00

2012 has already started out to be a busy year and blogging has been put aside. Again :-(.

So far this year I have visited and photographed a couple of beautiful homes, photographed new wallpaper arrivals (LOVE Andrew Martin´s "lumberjack"), delicious cakes, and a cover for Elle Decoration, Norway. I have even judged the "global chic" challenge that NIB (Norske Interiørblogger) put out earlier this month.

My job is so varied and exciting and I am SO lucky being able to work with something that makes my heart beats faster. My job takes me to many new and great places both in Norway and abroad, and I meet so many wonderful people everywhere I go.

My collegues, all the great and talented stylists, make my job fun and inspiring.Together we try and create new and inspiring images for all you readers of this blog, other blogs and magazines around the world. Hope we are able to inspire you in 2012 too. I will definately try my best! :-)

Here are a few bedrooms I have photographed in the last couple of years which inspires me :-)

The home of Line Dammen, stylist and journalist for Kamille magazine.

Styling: Line Dammen

The home of Oliver Gustav in Copenhagen.

Styling: Christine Hærra

The home of artist Maria Øverbye

Styling: Maria Øverbye

My guestroom that Kirsten styled so lovely for our "lovely linen" shoot.

Styling: Kirsten Visdal/Kvist

Photography: Trine Thorsen

and a Happy New Year...

2012-01-01T11:05:00.003+01:00

A week sure goes fast and so does a year! Remember posting the happy new year 2011 post like it was yesterday. Scary! Well, it is time again. To wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hope 2012 will be filled with lots of fun, great challenges, happiness and joy!

Thank you for stopping by this blog this year. Hope you´ll pop in next year too ;-)

XO,

Trine

Image by Kokkai Ng found on Flickr.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:23:00.001+01:00

This year I was sure I was going to add a little color to the x-mas decorations, but as always, endend up with what I always do, the greys, the browns, the whites and the blacks. Everytime I walk into a colorful home I (everyone else but mine...), I get really cheerful and happy, but when I try to add some color at home, I am not comfortable at all. I guess I have to admit once and for all, that I am not a color person. Maybe it will grow on me, but for now, I´ll stick with the colors of nature...

Here´s my Christmas tree. Goes with the rest, doesn´t it?

Merry x-mas everyone!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

And the winner is...

2011-12-24T08:06:00.002+01:00

The big day is here and the winner of the competion is about to be drawn. For those of you who participated (surprisingly few actually!), here are the correct answers:

Goro

Krumkaker

Sandkaker

Berlinerkranser

Smultringer

Sirupsnipper

Fattigmann

The competition was also sent out with a newsletter to my clients, so there are a few more people that participated which has not left a comment on this blog.

So there will be no cheating, my mother will now perform the draw :-)

Tamtaratamtaratam... (drumroll)

The lucky winner of a one day workshop is: Lena Hovind Olsson!
Congratulations!!!

This feature (with the recipes) is to be found in the current Christmas issue of BoligDrøm and Danish, BoligLiv.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Food and styling: Tara Ballantyne

A Christmas gift for you?

2011-12-14T18:40:00.000+01:00

In Norway we have an old tradition saying that you should bake at least seven different sorts of cakes for Christmas. This Christmas I would like to challenge my Norwegian or Norwegian speaking readers :-). The winner of the challenge can win a one day workshop in digital photography on Mars 3rd. 2012 for herself or a friend/girlfriend (Sorry, girls only...). Want to participate? This is what you have to do:

Name the seven different brands that are in this image. Hard to see? Visit my website/new work and look for larger images.

Send me and email with your answer and write a comment on this blog when you have sent it. Do not post an answer on this blog. You´ll just help others to win :-).

Are there many participants with right answers, a winner will be drawn.

The draw will take place on December 24th. and the winner will be announced on this blog.

Good luck and hurry, you have only ten days...

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Food and styling: Tara Ballantyne

Wood works

2011-12-14T18:03:00.001+01:00

I don´t there should be any doubt that my boyfriend and I are into wood these days... Tall and wide shelves, tall and narrow shelves, small shelves, tables, benches and consoles, we make it all! Common are simple furnitures with clean lines, mostly painted in white. Our favourites are the things we make to keep our logs in. Neatly stacked logs are so decorative, and with a piece like this you don´t need much more... Soon we will try and make a blog or a website with bigger images, sizes and prices. Until then, you´ll have to visit this blog for regular updates.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Edible gifts

2011-12-12T20:29:00.000+01:00

Nothing is more thoughtful that giving away a homemade gift, and nothing greater than receving one. Especially when it´s edible! The "hours" you have spent making that special treat for that special person has to warm everyone´s hearts. Getting this edible gift will not only warm your heart, but the whole you.

Imagine a cold winter night, curled up under a blanket, reading a good book, your favourite magazine (or blog?) AND a home made sweet and spicy Chai tea.

If you want to warm someone´s heart (and body) this Christmas you should give away this home- made Chai tea. Leave behind the recipe for a Chai Latte and you´ll be friends forever...

You need:

1/2 orange

1/2 dl cardamom seeds

6 cinnamon sticks, crushed

1 tbsp cloves

1tbsp black peppercorns

1 tbsp coriander seeds

2 tbsp star anise

1/2 dl Darjeeling tea

You do:

Preheat the oven to 95 degrees Celsius. Cover a cooking tray with greaseproof paper. Slice the orange in 3 mm thin slices and put them on the tray. Dry them in the oven for approximately 2-3 hours, turning them once in a while. When finished, mix all the ingredients, except from the Darjeeling tea and store in an airtight container.

Chai Latte:

6 dl milk

2 tbsp Chai mix

1,8 dl water

1 tbsp sugar

1 1/2 tbsp Darjeeling tea.

Warm the Chai mixture with milk, water and sugar on medium heat for 20 minutes.

Add the Darjeeling tea and let it stand for 3 minutes.

F:Y.I.

This recipe and more we did for an edible gift feature for Bo Bedre´s Christmas issue which is out in Norwegian stores now.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Concrete and colors

2011-12-07T19:32:00.001+01:00

A few years ago I bought and apartment just like this- in the same building- just a few doors away. I had for years been dreaming about a "New York style" loft, with concrete floors and walls. The project didn´t end up the way we were predicted (the builders changed the look, took away the "rawness" and decided to go for a cheaper, mainstream look), and with a help from a experienced laywer in this field, I was able to withdraw from the contract I had signed. Helene was another one who fell in love with this cool to be project, but took the contractors to court, and ended up getting the apartment the way she was promised in the first place.

I had decided that I didn´t want to set my foot in that place again, until one day someone tipped me about a cool apartment in the east side of Oslo. It was with mixed feelings I entered the building the day of the shoot, but it ended up being a fun day with inspirational things to shoot and a lovely, energetic hostess it was fun being around.
Helene is a cool, sporty gal who loves skating, bicycling, surfing and travelling, and as you can see, her apartment reflects her very active lifestyle. Right now, she is having the time of her life surfing in beautiful Bali (lucky her!), while someone else is a lucky tenant of this ccol apartment.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

New addition!

2011-12-04T23:52:00.001+01:00

New addition to our "furniture collection. Small kitchen table, desk or a side table. The choice is yours (or mine...) :-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Damn you, Nigella!

2011-12-04T20:14:00.001+01:00

My boyfriend unfortunately discovered Nigella´s Guinness Gingerbread a few weeks ago, and has for the two past Sundays kept himself busy in the kitchen making this amazing cake.The result each Sunday has been two delicious cakes, which both has gone down faster than I never thought was possible. After the first one, I begged him not to bake it again (since I knew the outcome), but he wouldn´t listen. The Sunday after he was by the stove again, stirring together Guinness and lots of wonderful spices. If he continues in the same path, I will gain at least 5 kg before Christmas...For sure. So next weekend it is my turn! Sorry, Nigella, I have to try and make it my way- with palm sugar instead of muscovado (brown) sugar and soy flour and agave syrup instead of the real stuff. I need the spices but not the carbs...

For the real stuff you need:

150 g butter (plus some for greasing)

300 g golden syrup (light, not dark)

200 g dark muscovado sugar/dark brown sugar

250 ml Guinness

2 tsp ground ginger

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground cloves

300 g plain flour

2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

300 ml sourcream

2 eggs

1x23 cm square baking tin or 1x foil tray approx. 30x20x5 cm

(we used old fashion cake tins, which made two beautiful cakes)

PS! The first time he made it, my boyfriend took 2 tsp of ground cloves instead of 1/4 tsp by mistake. It actually tasted really good. More spicy and "Christmasy". With 1/4 tsp the you can taste the syrup more and it is a bit sweeter.

You do:

Preheat your oven to 170 degrees. Grease your cake tin or foil tray.

Put the butter, syrup, muscovado sugar, Guinness, ginger, cinnamon and ground cloves into a pan and melt gently over low heat.

Take of the heat and whisk in the flour and the bicarb. You will need to be patient and whisk thoroughly to get rid of any lumps.

Whisk the sour cream and eggs together in a measuring jug and then beat into the gingerbread mixture, whisking again to get a smooth batter.

Pour the mixture into your tin of choice and bake for about 40-45 minutes (you should check it after 30-35 minutes). When it is ready it should be gleamingly risen at the center and coming away from the tin at the sides.

Let the cake cool before cutting into slices or squares.

Recipe by Nigella Lawson found on http://www.lifestylefood.com.au

For American measures, see the recipe on www.foodnetwork.com

New doors?

2011-11-27T15:26:00.001+01:00

I have scraped and removed paint from three doors in the house, and I´ve already had enough of it. There´s about seven left, and even though I am not going to continue the project until next summer

( it´s easier to do it outside in nice weather), I have already started to dread all the work.

I like old doors better than new ones so I either have to stick with the job and the hours it is going to take, or come up with a better solution. In the 70´s and 80´s people used to put a piece of plywood on the doors to cover the flaking paint, and to get a new look, and that is what the owners did in this house too. Underneath the plywood are some beautiful, old doors that just needs a little bit (or actually quite a lot!) of renovating.

Maybe I can do the same, and instead of having a boring plywood door, glue one of these wallstickers from Bolia outside? At least they have a little bit more paint on them than my doors. Don´t think they come in the exact door size though, so I might have to photograph one of the doors I have already renovated, print them out and glue them on top of the plywood.

Images found on Bolia.com

New workshops!

2011-11-27T09:08:00.001+01:00

I ´ve had a few people contacting me regarding workshops and have now set two new dates for you to join. The first one out is on Mars 3rd.and 4th, the second one, April 28th and 29th. The workshops will be held were I had them the last time, in charming Bikuben in my hometown (village) of Tofte. I have already sent the information to you who has contacted me earlier, but for you who hasn´t, you can contact me here for more information and prices.

Maybe something to put on your wishlist for Christmas?

Images taken by Helene Bye from Elle Decoration (chocolate) and Linda Elmin (egg on spoon) from Hviit who attended my last workshop.

All I want for x-mas...

2011-11-27T08:53:00.001+01:00

Ok, it is time to start on my Christmas wishes and here´s one out of many.

My breakfast plates have started to crack, and I desperately need new ones before I am being charged of attempt of murder (don´t want my guests to swallow big chunks of ceramics, do I?).

I´m in love with this wonderful series of ceramics from Danish Uh la la, and would be the happiest girl in the world if they were under the Christmas tree this year.

Images found on Uh la la ceramics website

Busy bee...

2011-11-24T19:00:00.001+01:00

Even though my boyfriend and have more than enough with work and the house, we have started on a new project, furniture making! Since I am so fortunate to have a very handy man, why not take advantage of that? Together we design and create simple and timeless furnitures in our workshop-the diningroom. Every week new furnitures are popping up around the house, and now we are even thinking about selling them. If we make it on time, we will attend DEJM (Designernes eget julemarked) on Dec.3rd.and 4th in Oslo, with a few samples and a lookbook of a few of the things we have, and can create. Our ideas is to make everything custom made of your choice, either it´s a bench, a kitchen shelf (or a table), a wood rack or a closet.

If this is anything of your interest, don´t hesitate to contact me by sending me and email.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Colorful Christmas!

2011-11-20T09:50:00.001+01:00

We never get enough of great decoration- and gift wrapping ideas, and this year EVERY magazine have their own Christmas issue filled with exactly that. We se more and more colors and recycled paper, and gifts decorated with tape, stickers and colorful ribbons. Gone are Santas, red apples and white angels. Don´t know what you think about this new trend, but even though I am not the most colorful person there is, I like it a lot! I am strongly considering adding some color to the decorations this year- if I dear...

This are a few images from a Christmas workshop feature I did for Kamille´s Christmas issue earlier this fall. Hope they´ll inspire!

Styling: Line Dammen, Bente Helstrøm and Tara Ballantyne

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Eye exercise...

2011-11-20T09:23:00.001+01:00

Great eye exercise on a Sunday morning :-)

Have a lovely day!

Lovely posters from Keep Calm Gallery

Design by Hayley & Lucas

Finally!

2011-11-14T21:39:00.001+01:00

I have finally had some time to renew my website and the result is tons of new images of homes, food and people. If you like something that you see, and would like to share it with someone else, pls.go ahead, but

don´t forget to link back to me and my website ;-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Tasty rolls

2011-11-08T09:02:00.000+01:00

Not too long ago I did a food feature together with stylist, Alexandra for Tara Smak, on the ingredients carrots and beets.

They were baked, fried, cooked and shredded, and the result where seven different, delicious and healthy recipes. One of them were these yummie thyme and carrot rolls. The rolls are great with soup, for breakfast or lunch.

This recipe makes app. 20 rolls

You need:

50 gr butter
50 gr yeast
2,5 dl milk
2,5 dl water
3 tbsp syrup or honey
2 tbsp fresh, chopped thyme
1 tbsp salt
3,5 dl shredded carrots
5 dl whole wheat flour
8-9 dl flour

You do:

Melt the butter in a pan, then add the milk and the water until the fluid is lukewarm. Add the yeast and stir until completely dissolved.

Pour the mixture into a baking bowl, and add the shredded carrots, syrup, salt, thyme, whole wheat flour and last the flour. Start by adding 8 dl flour and work the dough. Add the rest of the flour if necessary.

Let the dough raise for app. 45 minutes. Take the dough out of the bowl and knead thoroughly.
Cut the dough in 20 even pieces. Put the rolls on a baking tray (with baking paper) and cover with a kitchen towel. Raise for another 20 minutes. Brush the rolls with a beaten egg. Sprinkle the rolls with fresh thyme or sea salt.

Bake in oven on 250 degrees C. for for app.12 minutes.

Photography: Trine Thorsen
Food and styling: Alexandra Villefrance

Sibella´s New York

2011-11-01T19:49:00.001+01:00

I have no plans (yet) to visit New York in the nearest future (at least not this year), and money is the only reason for that. But, if luck stricked this way and I was to go, I would bring along this book. Here, Australian born interior stylist, Sibella Court takes you on shopping tours around the city, guiding you to stores off the beaten tracks, giving you simple to follow routes using your feet and the subway.

If you are in to interiors and like to look for stores that offer the unusual, I believe this is the book for you.

Image found on Amazon

Apartment love...

2011-10-31T21:56:00.000+01:00

My absolute favorite apartment right now is the new home of my ex-roommate, stylist and former editor of Norwegian Elle Decoration, Line Dammen. This home is right up my alley color wise (greys,whites, browns and black), furniture wise (a great mix of old and new) and style wise (ethnic meets industrial meets retro meets modern meets antique and so on). Yes please!!! Line is now working in Kamille magazine, being in charge of the food- and interior section. These are a few of the images that was featured a few weeks ago as a "get to know" the new and talented addition to the Kamille staff.

Styling: Line Dammen
Photography: Trine Thorsen

It´s x-mas time...

2011-10-30T19:30:00.001+01:00

It is less than two months until Christmas and several magazines are already out with their Christmas issue. It seems like Christmas hits earlier and earlier every year, but I guess people like to be ahead with the preparations. Have to admit I´m one of them, especially with the presents. The first ones have already been bought and are secretly hidden in the house....

What we can´t get enough of is recipes, gift and decoration ideas and the x-mas issues are full of them.

In Kamilles x-mas issue you can see some of Alexandra Villefrance´s wonderful decorations and gift wrapping ideas.

Styling: Alexandra Villefrance
Photography: Trine Thorsen

rust & rustic

2011-10-30T17:57:00.001+01:00

As written in my profile, I am a big fan of old, rusty and rustic things. Every time I visit my local thrift store, I look for something "new" to bring home to go with my collection. My last find was an old pair of scissors and a screw and bolt which both had no purpose than as decoration on one of my shelves. My good collegue and friend, stylist and designer Kari Delotis share the same passion, so we decided to do something on the theme. We gathered new and old rusty and rustic findings, and the result was these images that were featured in Interiørmagasinet earlier this fall.

Styling: Kari Delotis

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Weekend workshop results

2011-10-17T14:34:00.002+02:00

Photography: Hanna Kristinsdottir

Photography: Randi Uhre

Photography: Krista Elvheim

Photography: Karoline M.J. Nordbø

Photography: Torunn Nordbø

Photography: Linda Elmin

Photography: Helene Bye

This weekend I had a workshop in digital photography for beginners for seven eager girls who wanted to learn the very basics in photography. It was two long days with learning shutters and f-stops, some lighting techniques and a little bit of photoshop. The information flow was high and the learning curve steep, and I think there were a few of them that dreamt about numbers that night. The images turned out amazing as you can see here!

Fiskebar- Antwerp

2011-10-13T23:26:00.000+02:00

When we were in Antwerp, Belgium earlier this year, my travelcompanion, Kirsten and I stopped for lunch at the cool restaurant Fiskebar on Marnixplaats. Specializing in seafood, one side of the restaurant, the bar, serves small dishes like oysters, fish and chips and clams, and the restaurant "next door" serves full courses, for both lunch and dinner. Great food in relaxed and non snobbish environments. Love love love!

If your going to Antwerp and love fish, this is the place to eat!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Hôtel Costes-the music

2011-10-07T16:28:00.000+02:00

I have never been so fortunate to experience the Hôtel Costes in Paris, but their music I have! I am a huge fan and are the lucky owner of all the albums except from the last one- nr.15.

The music is mixed by Stephâne Pompougnac and is a mixture of lounge, chill, jazz and more... Cool and groovy!

I love the cd´s not only for its music, but also for the great photography on the cover and inside. A real candy for photographers like me. Wouldn´t mind to be a part of making one, but I guess that will only be in my dreams...

White on white

2011-10-07T10:52:00.000+02:00

Around this time last year, Norwegian Elle Decoration came out with a white issue.

One of the homes that was featured in this issue was Elle´s former Deputy Editor, Cecilie. Love the way she has transformed her small apartment into a white and spacious looking place, by keeping it white and neutral. I am especially a big fan of her art wall, with frames and objects in various shapes and sizes. As I guess you can see, Cecilie has a big weakness for white porcelain and her collection is to die for!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Tamtaratamtaratam (drumroll...)

2011-10-06T11:51:00.000+02:00

I have made a draw (or actually my boyfriend) in the competition of winning a workshop next weekend, and the name that appeared twice was Linda from Hviit. Congratulations! Guess you have to get your camera ready and mind set and clear because now you are going to learn the difference between shutters and f-stops;-).

Thank you very much Kathrine from Glimt for joining and making a post, and Demie from Paraphernalia for becoming a follower.

There are still a possibility to join the workshop, either one or two days. You can just send me an email if this sounds fun!

Image taken by Eugene Yurevich and found on flickr!

Apple dumplings

2011-10-05T20:38:00.001+02:00

In addition to making the delicious juice from the apples I´m about to pick this coming weekend, I have to save some of them to make these wonderful apple dumplings. The recipe is one out of seven we photographed for a feature in the Norwegian magazine, Maison Mat og Vin, which is to be found in the stores now.

Apple dumplings with spiced sauce

You need:

350 g (1 1/2 cups) of sugar

4.75 dl (2 cups) water

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, divided

50 g (1/4 cup) butter

150 g (2/3 cup) sugar

8 medium apples, peeled and cored

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, cut into cubes

You do:

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 350 g (1 1/2 cups) sugar, water, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.

Remove saucepan from heat, and stir in butter. Set aside

.
Combine 150 g (2/3 cup) sugar, remaining 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Roll pie crust into 8, 8-inch circles. Place 1 apple in center of each circle. Sprinkle each evenly with sugar mixture and dot with 3 tablespoons butter.

Fold dough over apples, pinching to seal. Place in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish and drizzle with syrup. Bake at 190 degrees C (375°F) for 40 to 45 minutes.

*makes 8 dumplings

*Cooks tip: Serve with ice cream or softly whipped cream!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Food and styling: Tara Ballantyne

Fall

2011-10-05T19:46:00.002+02:00

Even though I was only gone for a few days there´s was a lot of changes when we returned back home. The colors on the trees had gone from green to orange, and most of the apples in the orchard outside the house had fallen off. If I want homemade applejuice from Eplegården this winter, I better hurry and pick what´s left. Guess my weekend plans are already set...

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Wicked Valencia!

2011-09-30T10:29:00.000+02:00

At this very moment I am in Valencia, Spain, taking a few days off from work. I have heard so many wonderful things about this city, so I had to go and see for myself. Can´t say I am disappointed, the city is so so beautiful. Today we will cross the streets from where we stay and visit the wonderful City of Arts and Sciences, with its amazing architecture and exciting things to explore. There´s a local food fair going on there now, so I can´t wait to taste various delicious local food and wine. In the sun... ;-)

Images by hanneorla found on flickr!

Want to win?

2011-09-25T11:04:00.000+02:00

I need a little help to spread the words about my photography workshop this October 15th.and 16 th. and hope you will help me. You might win a photography workshop if you do :-).

This is how you do it:

1. Make a comment under under this post and become a follower if you´re not. I´ll give you one ticket in my draw if you do, with the opportunity to win a one day workshop.

2. Make a post on your blog about the workshop and link back to my blog, my website and the post about the course. When you do, you´ll get two tickets and the opportunity win the whole two days (food and cost at your own expence).

The winners will announced in one week so you have to hurry! ;-)

XO,

Trine

Styling: Tara Ballantyne
Photography: Trine Thorsen

Cool closet!

2011-09-23T10:09:00.001+02:00

For my birthday in August I got the nicest present from my boyfriend. A homemade closet!

The closet is a specially made for me, with the color of my choice and big enough to fit all my clothes.

I get so happy every time I open the bedroom door and the first thing I see is this great piece of work.

I have "ordered" more, but in different sizes and colors. One to go in the diningroom and a few more to go elsewehere. I also found some great antique hooks at Vestkanttorget last Saturday, so maybe I have to beg for a shelf too...

If you would like a specialmade closet just for you, send me and email and I´ll pass it on to the cabinet maker :-).

Photography: Trine Thorsen

New workshop!

2011-09-22T14:03:00.002+02:00

I have now set a new date for a workshop in digital photography for beginners, focusing on very basic interior and lifestyle photography. The course will be held this Octobre 15th. and 16th. in my hometown, Tofte, app. one hour drive from Oslo. At the old and charming Bikuben, we will learn, practice, eat and sleep from Saturday morning until Sunday evening. If you don´t have the chance to join both days, I have made it possible to do a one day workshop.

Sounds fun?

You can contact me here for more information and price.

Hope to see you there!

Image by Cuba Gallery on Flickr!

Low carb chocolate cake!

2011-09-18T17:32:00.001+02:00

My mom makes the greatest "Texas" chocolate cake, which is always a huge hit when served. Since

I´m trying to stick to a low carb lifestyle, I have tried to make her cake in a new, low carb, wheat free, dairy free and sugar free version. My version is also wonderful in taste

(if you don´t use too much Stevia or Sukrin), and is wonderfully moist which just gets better and better the longer it is kept in the fridge (easily 1-2 weeks!)

This is my version...

You do:

In a big pan, boil:

400 gr of butter

4,5 dl water

8 tbsp cocoa

Remove the pan from the heat and add:

4,5 dl Sukrin (or other non sugar supplements)

2 tsp baking powder

3 tbsp coconut oil (Cocosa or other brands)

1 tsp salt

4,5 dl soy flour

4,5 dl almond flour (or grounded almonds)

4 eggs

225 gr. soy sour creme (you can use regular sour cream if you prefer. NB! No low fat!)

1-2 tsp organic vanilla powder (can be bought in healthfoodstores)

Mix all the ingredients well. Cover a large baking pan with a baking sheet and pour mixture in. Turn the oven on 200 degrees Celsius and bake for 45-60 minutes. Make sure you don´t bake too long. The cake is supposed to be moist/raw when finished.

Frosting:

200 gr of butter

12 tbsp soy milk (vanilla flavoured is ok)

8 tbsp cocoa

250 gr Sukrin powdered sugar (or other powdered sugar alternatives)

2 tsp vanilla powder

3 drops Stevia Extract (vanilla or toffee), or rum essence if you can´t get a hold of Stevia (it is not sold in Norway)

Pour the frosting over the cake while still hot. Pinch small hole in the cake so the frosting will go deeper. Sprinkle with coconut flour and let it cool.

A great tip...

The cake is best when you freeze it and then defrost it again. A good advice is to slice the cake in to smaller pieces before you put it in the freezer. The cake is rich so you (or your guests) can usually only handle one piece of cake at a time (maybe two). The cake can be kept fresh and moist in an airtight container in the fridge up to two weeks.

Enjoy!

PS! I have only baked this cake twice so I advice you to check the cake while in the oven. I feel like things tend to bake faster in my oven than recipes say, so I always keep an eye out so things don´t get baked too long. You don´t want the cake to be burnt or dry!

And since I´ve been experimenting with the ingredients it still might not be perfect. Sukrin tend to have a bitter, "cold" aftertaste, but adding Stevia extract to the frosting tend to take the aftertaste away. Add more Stevia extract if you can still taste it.

F.Y.I!

Stevia can not be bought in Norway, only on the internet. Check out iherb.com or google Stevia.

Coconut oil, vanilla powder, soy- and almond flour can be bought in any healthfood store.

Soy products can usually be found in grocery stores. If not, healthfood stores sell them :-).

Those were the days...

2011-09-18T16:13:00.003+02:00

While growing up, I spent a few years in the back seat of a black Beetle.

Don´t remember much else than the color, the "stiffness" of the car, and the rides being really cold during the winters.

Found this great images while Googling images from Norway the other day. Makes me think back of the sore rides in the back seat, on our way to the mountains. A real kidney killer!

Photographer unknown

Friday treat!

2011-09-09T15:33:00.003+02:00

Friday is a good night to treat yourself to something special. Tonight, I am going to treat myself to this wonderful popcorn I tasted for the first time on a photoshoot for Kamille this summer. It is easy to make and terribly addictive, but the good part is that it is healthier than any other snack out there, which make it easy not to get the quilty feeling us women tend to get when we "sin".

The best popcorn ever...

You need:

A big pan

A big baking bowl

3 tbsp coconut oil

1 dl popcorn kernels

5o gr.unsalted butter

1 dl maplesyrup or agave syrup

2 tbsp chopped rosemary leaves

1-2 tsp Maldon salt (or other sea salt flakes)

1/4 tsp baking soda

You do:

Preheat the oven to 120 degrees Celsius (248 degrees Fahrenheit). On medium to high temperature, add the coconut oil and the popcorn kernels to a big pan. Put a lid on, and start to shake the pan. It will soon start to pop and when it is about 3 sec between each popping, remove the pan away from the heat. Pour the popcorn into a big bowl.

Melt the butter and the maple syrup (agave syrup) while stirring. If you have a sugar thermometer use this and heat until approxomately 105 degrees Celsius (221 degrees Fahrenheit), or if not, until the mixture has a brown, caramel colour.

Remove the pan from the heat and add salt, rosemary and bakingpowder while stirring. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and stirr well. Then pour the popcorn onto a bakingtray (covered with baking paper). Bake in the oven for app. 45 minutes, or until they are completely dry.

Cool off and break the popcorn into small pieces.

The popcorn can be stored in airtight containers up to three days.

If you manage to keep your hands off them that long ;-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Food & styling: Hanne Buxrud

It´s me again!

2011-09-08T23:35:00.000+02:00

This summer took a huge turn on July 22 nd when79 people, most of them kids, were brutally killed, and many more wounded for life. Norway was-and still is- in shock, sad, angry and devastated on what happened that Friday in July. Myself included.

Blogging suddenly seemed so wrong and meaningless in the days and weeks to come, and writing about renovating, things on my wishlist and new things to buy had no meaning at all. So, I had to stop for a while. Now, 1 1/2 months later life is starting to get back "normal" (for some people it will never be the same again...), being caught up in work and daily routines, making "to do" lists and wishlists and what not, and having blogging not seeming so negligible anymore.

Working girl!

2011-07-16T22:39:00.014+02:00

The past few weeks have been hectic with loads of work to finish before everyone´s taking a few weeks off from the office. I started mine last Friday, but I have to say it has been all but a relaxing week. As a owner of a large renovating project my summer holiday is being spent working on the house. So far this week I have been painting a few windows, removed three layers of paint from an old door, started renovating our so called bathroom (which is still in an old washing room in the basement) and getting our dining room ready to be wallpapered (plastered, sanded and cleaned). In between some gardening that is... Phew!!! In addition, I´ve had my in-laws visiting which also means a whole lot more cooking and socializing than ususal. So, I hope I´m being exused for my lack of blogging ;-).

I will be continuing in the same vein a few more days, but if the weather permits it (doesn´t look so bright this coming week...), I will be treating myself to a few days off and hopefully a trip to the beach or two for some tanning and a dip in the ocean.

An a few hours in bed blogging of course...

:-)

Image found on Ana. Gr´s photostream on Flickr.

Sorry!

2011-07-16T22:32:00.003+02:00

Been out of touch for a while... A few rainy days ahead and I promise I´ll catch up ;-)

Image by Binh.KidEvil found on Flickr.

Another yardsale!

2011-06-27T15:22:00.004+02:00

My last yard sale was quite a success and many people stopped by. The sun was shining, people were happy and so was I. It was so much fun that I have decided to do it again (still have a lot left!). This time together with a sweet neighbour I got to know that day + my good friend, Purpur´s Krista :-). She will be selling of leftovers from her wonderful shop that closed down last Friday.

The sale will be held in my garden in Bispeveien 8, this coming Saturday, July 2.nd from 12.00-18.00.

PS! It´s a big market (Toftedagen) downtown Tofte the same day, so why not take a family outing to Tofte with a stopover at wonderful Villa Malla on the way home? :-)

Lemoncurd stuffed cupcakes

2011-06-21T21:00:00.012+02:00

These cupcakes are really delicious with a perfect combination of sweet and sour.

Blueberry and lemon curd stuffed cupcakes with lemon buttercream

Makes 12 cupcakes

You need:The lemon curd

280 g sugar 170 g unsalted butter, cut into cubes 230 g fresh squeezed lemon juice (preferrably Meyer) 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel 1/8 teaspoon salt 5 large eggs, beaten to blend
for lemon frosting: 110 g unsalted butter, room temperature 450 g powdered sugar 50 g fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons lemon zest (or more if desired)

Combine sugar, butter, lemon juice, lemon peel and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until butter melts and sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. Gradually whisk in beaten eggs. Whisk constantly over medium-low heat until curd thickens, about 2 minutes, being sure not to boil. Strain curd through a sieve into a bowl.
Place plastic wrap directly onto surface of curd and chill overnight.

The cupcakes

240 g flour 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt
210 g sugar 170 g unsalted butter, room temperature 180 g buttermilk ** 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice 2 teaspoons fresh grated (organic) lemon rind 100 g fresh blueberries, frozen for 4 hours
200 g lemon curd for filling (see recipe below)

You do:

The cupcakes

Beat butter until softened. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Mix the buttermilk and lemon juice together in a small bowl.
Stirring well, add a third of the dry ingredients into the butter and sugar mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Make 3 additions of dry ingredients and 2 of buttermilk** mixture, finishing with the dry. Scoop batter into cupcake cups filling 2/3 of the way to top.

Bake cupcakes at 180°C degrees for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Transfer to rack and let cool completely. Cut the tops from cooled cupcakes and scoop in one tablespoon of lemon curd. Replace tops and press down gently.

**If you are unable to find buttermilk, make your own by combining 230 g skim milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Stir and let sit five minutes - Buttermilk!

The frosting

With an electric mixer, whip butter until creamy (about three minutes). Add 300 g of sugar, lemon juice and the lemon zest and mix until combined. Add *140 g of sugar and mix until light and fluffy about 2 minutes.

*Add additional sugar if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Cooks tip:

These cupcakes have one extra step - the lemon curd. If you are in a hurry, you can skip the filling - they are also lovely without curd as blueberry and lemon cupcakes.

Photography: Trine Thorsen
Food & styling: Tara Ballantyne

Lovely clusters!

2011-06-21T20:16:00.009+02:00

For you that has followed me for a while may know that I have a real love for pictures mosaics (when they are put well togehter that is!). Came across the wonderful blog of Rachel Follett the other day that I have to share with you. Here are the most amazing images, color coordinated and put together with a color chart to go with each set. Even a "no color" person like me wants to paint every room in the house when I see these. How very inspirational!

Under the themes color inspiration and moodboards you´ll find tons of color inspirations for your future wardrobe and your home.

No wonder she calls it the pretty blog!

http://lovelyclusters.blogspot.com

For image references visit Lovely Clusters/moodboards

Floral fabrics

2011-06-17T16:29:00.010+02:00

On Wednesday I had the most inspiring day in a long time. The apple orchard outside my home was transferred in to a cool setting with furnitures swept and decorated with the loveliest fabrics, and with a tall and long legged model to top it all off. We shot from early morning and till the sun went down, only being interrupted by a few rainshowers in between (surprise, surprise!).

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Model: Frida H.A/Pholk

Couldn´t resist...

2011-06-06T12:34:00.007+02:00

Guess what I ordered on Amazon today?

The latest book by Dutch stylist, Pia Jane Bijkerk.

Love her style, love her blog, love her books!

PS! It is sold out on amazon.com, but check out the UK site instead!

www.amazon.co.uk

Image by Pia Jane Bijkerk

Thinking...

2011-06-06T12:11:00.009+02:00

My new kitchen is getting there, but there´s a few things still missing. I really need a new picture to go above my kitchen table and would really like an image with a food theme... I am thinking about a large one, app. 90x160 cm, or a triptych- a serie of three images. The cheapest is of course to create one myself, but it would also be fun if I found an image taken by a fellow photographer (I have seen a few that I like!).
Large format prints are quite expensive, so I have to be sure that I have chosen the right one before I go ahead and have it made.

Right now I am considering this one...Maybe this can help me get a love for baking?

Photography: Trine Thorsen
Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Chris Court

2011-06-05T22:45:00.006+02:00

If you read Donna Hay magazine, I guess you have seen the wonderful images of Australian photographer, Chris Court. Not only does he shoot stunning food images for Donna, but also wonderful interior- and lifestyle images.

Chris is the brother of stylist Sibella Court and is of course the man behind the great images in her fabulous books.

Check out more of Chris´s images here

All images by Chris Court

Iced coffee

2011-06-05T17:51:00.014+02:00

Summer is here and so is my urge for iced coffee. My favourite is the "greek style" made from instant Nescafé. I make mine "the healthy way" with no sugar and milk, and you should try it too! It is very addictive and can be consumed without feeling guilty. What more can a woman ask for? ;-)

You need:

For 1 serving/big glass

Instant coffee (Nescafé or other brands)

1-2 tsp tamarind sugar (low in GI) Can be bought in healthfood stores

Water

Soy milk (with or without vanilla)

4-5 ice cubes

You do:

Take 2 tsp of instant coffee, 2 tsp of tamarind sugar ( 1 tsp if you use soy milk with vanilla) and a little water (app.1 dl), and put in a blender or a mixer and blend until you get a creamy and fluffy consistency.

Put the ice cubes in a big glass and pour the mixture in. Add soy milk of your choice (I prefer vanilla).

Voila!

Easy peasy!

PS! The greeks makes it with milk and sugar and your are of course welcome to do so too! Either way, it taste delicious!

PS II! And if you really want a killer one, add some Bailey´s ;-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Shopping on a Saturday

2011-06-05T17:27:00.013+02:00

Last week I found the kind of typewriter I´ve been searching for for years... it was in a thrift store nearby.

I left the store without it because I didn´t feel that it suited my budget at the moment (you know the "nice to have vs.need to have"...). Of course ALL I could think about in the days after, was the typewriter. It really had my name on it. Yesterday, I rushed back to the store hoping it wasn´t sold to someone else. And guess what, it wasn´t!!!

I went beserk and came ou with a whole bunch of other great findings for almost nothing. Like a pair of vintage boxing gloves, a cute little stool and all the great things you see in these pictures.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Spray it!

2011-06-01T22:05:00.011+02:00

Being a fleamarket shopper I tend to come home with things that needs a little fixing. Either it is missing a screw, some glue or just a fresh layer of paint. Found these incredible handy cans of spray paint the other day. Check it out:

-it can be used on vinyl, plast, fiberglass, concrete, glass, metal, wicker and wood, and has an oil based formula for both indoor and outdoor use.

- it dries in as little as 30 minutes

- has a coverage area up to 35 sq ft. ( app. 3 sq meters)

- the 360 degree spray nozzle provides a fast and efficient coverage without loss of pressure

- has a finger shield that prevents drips and an ergonomic grip that helps your fingers from tiring

- a rust preventive formula

And last, but not least... the old fashion style makes them wonderful to look at!

www.amazon.com

Oliver Gustav once again!

2011-05-23T20:23:00.020+02:00

In May last year, stylist Christine and I spent a week in Copenhagen for inspiration and work, and came home with this gorgeous feature (well, we think so...) shot in Oliver Gustav´s fantastic flowershop and studio in Kongens Nytorv. Unfortunately no one has shown an interest in the feature yet, but since I have now waited a whole year to share some of the images with you, I can no longer hold back. His taste in plants and interior is outstanding (and quite morbid), and visiting his place was a huge treat and great inspiration for us. A wonderful, wonderful day!

If you are going to Copenhagen, I recommend that you pay him a visit too!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Christine Hærra

Going for green!

2011-05-23T20:16:00.019+02:00

A dash of green is a great additional color to all the dark furnitures I have in my home.

Wouldn´t mind adding the table and chairs too!!! Think it could go very well the rest of my stuff...

Hmmm... guess I have to start saving once again :-)

Great textures and trendy buys now showing in Elle Decoration, Norway.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Let´s dance!

2011-05-14T09:35:00.003+02:00

Think I need to spend the weekend practicing new moves for Elle´s upcoming summer party :-)

Hummus

2011-05-11T20:20:00.020+02:00

I have to admit that my healthy lifestyle has been put aside for a while, but is now coming back in to my life and my daily routines. Gone (again!) is wheat (gluten), dairy products and sugar, and welcome are yummie food with low carb, protein and fat. Lots of it! My breakfast now consists of eggs and bacon (at least 50 grams!), and on Sunday I even added a dash of Bernaise on top. Yuck and yum at the same time!

Have to admit that it is a little bit hard getting used to all the fat, but with only little carbs in the diet it´s supposed to be good for you!

My new lifestyle requires some cooking and baking and my goal is to share some of the recipes with you here.

First one out is hummus, which is not only yummie with vegetables (as dip), grilled chicken, hard boiled eggs and more, but also has all the nutritional values my new lifestyle requires.

HUMMUS:

You need:

1 can of chickpeas (organic if available)

1/4 cup of the leftover chickpea liquid

3-5 tbsp of lemon juice (depending on your preference)

1 1/2 tbsp tahini (paste made of sesame seeds)

2 cloves of garlic, crushed

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

You do:

Drain the chickpeas and set aside the liquid from the can. Combine the remaining ingredients in a blender/food processor. Add 1/4 cup of the liquid from the chicpeas. Blend until everything is thoroughly mixed and smooth.

Place in a serving bowl and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus. Add 1-2 tbsp of olive oil in the well. Garnish with parsley (optional).

Hummus can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or can be kept in the freezer for up to one month. Add a little olive oil if it appears to be dry.

PS! If you like it spicy, add a sliced red chilli or a dash of cayenne pepper.

My new favourite tree

2011-05-11T20:05:00.013+02:00

After my special tree died on me early this year, I had to find myself a new favourite. Since I´m quite picky on colors and shapes (can be green, but not too green, preferably no pink etc...), I have looked around for a while. I found this cool fella while visiting a local nursery a few weeks back and I have to say it has become my new favourite. The tree is called Salix Anglorum "Yalta" and has beautiful purple red catkins and the perfect green color ;-). I love the strange looking shape with a long stem and a little "bush" on top. It prefers sun or semi-shade which is perfect for my quite sunny garden.

Spring cleaning!

2011-05-01T22:21:00.014+02:00

This weekend spring cleaning has been on the "to do list", and I must say I´m happy and exhausted (I looove getting the garden and the veranda ready for summer, especially after...). In lots of sunshine and with help from my wonderful mother, the lawn have been raked, the hedge trimmed and flowers planted. I´ve even had some time to gather a whole bunch of stuff from the loft and the basement to sell on my yard sale next weekend.

On Saturday May 7th. from 11.00- 17.00 and Sunday May 8th. from 11.00- 17.00, I will be selling off a bunch of stuff I have collected for a while. New stuff, old stuff, antiques, clothes, furnitures, pictures (photographs) and a whole lot more...

For those of you who lives nearby (or is thinking of taking a trip to the countryside), please stop by! Freshly brewed coffee and homemade cake will be awaiting :-).

Bakkabrim

2011-04-24T15:39:00.016+02:00

On Thursday we had a day off from shooting houses and went for a short excursion around Iceland, also known as "the golden circle". On our first stop, in the small village of Eyrabakki (app.60 km outside Reykjavik), we found this cute, little organic café. Looking more like a shed than like a café and being in- what I would call- the middle of nowhere- the café surprised us with nice smelling organic coffée and home made raw blueberry pie served with a delicious youghurt and vanilla bean sauce on the side. Yummie!

www.bakkabrim.is

www.facebook.com/bakkabrim

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Sissa´s house

2011-04-24T14:52:00.003+02:00

Our first shoot in Iceland was the home of Sigridur (Sissa) Olafsdottir, an Icelandic photographer. In addition to making wonderful artwork (she is having an exhibition soon), she is one of the owners of Ljosmyndaskolinn, a private photography school located in Reykjavik.

Some of the art she is working on now are these beautiful images, all presented in vintage boxes.

I want them all!

Since the homes I shoot in Iceland are all specs (not knowing if anybody will buy), I don´t know where and when it will be showing. Hopefully someone will like them, and I´ll let you know if someone do ;-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Gerdur Hardardottir

All I want for Christmas...

2011-04-21T11:24:00.015+02:00

Not too long ago I was asked by the magazine Rom 123/Klikk.no what I thought was a design classic that would never go out of date. My answer was easy; Paolo Rizzatto´s lamp 265 designed for Flos in 1973.

Being a swingarm lamp addict this is one of my absolute favourites! It goes well with all kinds of interiors, being in a workplace, a modern minimalistic home, a more industrial one and more. You see it in kitchens, living rooms, offices and halways in grey, white or black.

What the other people in the "expert panel" answered, I don´t know, but I´m excited to read about it their next issue.

Image found on Flos.com

Rad Reykjavik

2011-04-16T18:26:00.011+02:00

This Easter I am going back to Reykjavik to capture more beautiful Icelandic homes. There will be four days with work and a couple of days of relaxation and sightseeing. Hate to leave the beautiful spring weather we´re having these days, but excited to see more of this cool city.

Tudeluuu!

Playing with food...

2011-04-15T19:10:00.004+02:00

I have been playing quite a lot with food lately and I absolutely love it!!!

On Monday we did a story on apples making homemade, old fashion caramel apples and many other great recipes. No wonder it is hard to stick to a healthy diet...

When and where the feature will be out, I don´t know for sure, but I´ll keep you posted!

Photography and mess maker: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Cool kitchen stuff

2011-04-15T18:51:00.006+02:00

If you have followed this blog for a while I guess you know that I have a new kitchen :-). When you have a new kitchen you dream of lots of nice new things to put in it. Have to admit that I wanted to keep most of the things I shot for this feature, and using the kitchen as location

didn´t make it any easier seeing how well the things fitted in. But, I was a very good girl and nothing was left behind when Tara left that same evening.

Well, except from the lamp, the table and the chair that is, because that was mine from the very start...

:-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

Concrete and wood

2011-04-15T16:32:00.013+02:00

A couple of years ago I shot this house on an assignment for Elle Interior. The house is located in Oslo, close to the great outdoor and skiing area, Sognsvann. I really like the way the have combined new architectual design with old furnitures, concrete, wool and wood and think it looks perfect together.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Christine Hærra

Farmhouse

2011-04-10T20:48:00.014+02:00

The last weeks has been filled with many exciting photoshoots, one of them a shoot for the next issue of Interiørmagasinet.

On Wednesday last week I filled my car wih my photogear and stylist Kirsten and designer/model/assistant, Heidi, theirs with lots of lovely things "farmer style". We met up in my favorite location, the wonderful home of Ingvild and Olaf, to shoot an inspirationl feature containing great textures and materials like bamboo, recycled wood, ceramics, linnen, cotton and hemp.

The magazine will be out on May 11th.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Kirsten Visdal

Model/designer: Heidi Bjørnsdottir

New hotel in town!

2011-04-10T20:09:00.019+02:00

On April 1st. a new hotel opened in Oslo. Well, the hotel has been there for a while, but not so good looking and in the best shape...

I have been so fortunate to work on this re-opening project, taking promotion pictures as well as doing some "artwork" for their breakfast room.

The hotel has a great location, with walking distance to the Vigelands park, Bogstadveien (great shopping!), the castle and downtown Karl Johan. If you´re ever going to Oslo, the four star Saga Hotel would be a great place to stay. It´s a fairly small and intimate hotel with only 47 rooms, which gives it a relaxing and homey feeling.

The decorating is done by Kari Delotis/ Delotis Design

Images by Trine Thorsen

Styling: Kari Delotis

Same same!

2011-03-29T21:29:00.006+02:00

A tiny sneak peek....

One of the things I´ve been up to lately is a couple of phtoshoots for the spring issue of the Norwegian, Elle Interior. From April 26th, we will get to know them as Elle Decoration, as they change their name along with their sister magazines worldwide. It will be the same magazine, with the same inspiring features and with the same adorable and talented girls in the office.

Photography: Trine Thorsen
Styling: Tara Ballantyne

PS! If you´d like to get to know us better, take a look in the issue´s contributors page. You might find some juicy stuff you didn´t know about us ;-)

Pressing pause...

2011-03-29T16:55:00.016+02:00

It has been years since I was able to just sit down and do nothing. To tell you the truth, I am not really good at it...My work, the house and blogging, three wonderful things that takes time- indivdually and together. I wish that there were more than 24 hours in a day, and I guess I am not the only one... There´s sooo many things I would love to photograph, blogposts I want to write and friends I would like to meet. Not to talk about the house I should have finished! So, with so many projects going on, it is obvious that the days are too short. Right now work is what´s taking most of my time which I really can´t complain about... There has been a couple of "silent" years so thank god it´s moving the right way!

This afternoon I´ll put work aside and practice "pressing pause". I am heading into blogland and staying here for a while. Maybe I need to be tied up, but I think not. I am sure the wonderful world of blogs out there will mesmerize me and keep me still...;-))

See the beauty!

2011-03-06T14:38:00.011+01:00

Sometimes beautiful things are right in front of us, it is just a matter of seeing them... Like these images of an everyday sink taken by photographer Kristin Perers.

Want to learn photography?

2011-03-05T18:16:00.017+01:00

I´ve been contacted by several people who are interested in learning photography, and have now been able to set a date for a workshop. The workshop will be held (in Norwegian only) on April 30th.and May 1st. (this year) at the beautiful Holmsbu Spa and Resort. There will be two fun days of learning and practicing photography, good food and socializing. If this could of your interest, please contact me at trine@trinethorsen.com, and I will send some more information about the program and the price.

Hope to see you there!

Image borrowed from Cuba Gallery´s photostream on Flickr.

Just like paradise?

2011-03-05T17:00:00.008+01:00

I can´t wait to get my bathroom up and running, but when that will be, I don´t know for sure. But, what I´m definately having when the time is here is a bathtub, so I can defrost and reheat during our cold winters. Brrr... (I have an clawfoot tub waiting outside which is covered with tons of snow at the moment).

This beautiful bathroom is from the fantastic home of stylist Ingvild Flesland that I showed you a sneak peek on earlier. Love the beautiful and great idea of filling the room with plants and flowers, to get a feeling of being somewhere very excotic.

Me like alot!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Ingvild Flesland

1 year anniversary!

2011-02-27T12:11:00.005+01:00

One year has passed since I started blogging- and wow- what a year! I started out in Norwegian, then turned bilingual, but ended up writing in English only (writing in two languages is taking too much of my time...).

I have written 185 posts, received two blogger awards. Thank you French by design and Babyramen! I have 128 followers and many more readers. It´s just fantastic!!

Hope all of you will continue following me, and I´ll do my best to keep up with inspiring blogposts as often as possible, and hopefully some more from the house in the year to come.

Lots of love,

Trine :-)

Image found on Nikki Lynn´s photostream on Flickr.

Wallstickers

2011-02-26T10:29:00.009+01:00

Wallsticker have been around for a while now and more and more designers explore this world of endless oportunities. The French company, "Le Pré d´eau" is one of them. With a huge selection of cute drawings, quotes, poems, riddles and rhymes (mostly in french), they have a wide variety to choose from.

Images found on Le Pré déau

Paper or plastic?

2011-02-26T09:30:00.013+01:00

If I would have to choose between products made out of paper or plastic, I would definately say I´m a paper girl. Just look at these wonderful creations from Japanese Onao. Their collection SIWA, made in collaboration with industrial designer Naoto Fukasawa are just gobsmacking! The products are made from Naoron, a special paper developed by ONAO. The great thing about this amazing paper product is that it´s durable (does not tear easily) and washable! SIWA is the reversing of the characters in the word WASI (washi), which means "crinkle" in Japanese.

Images found on Onao.co.jp

Rut Kara´s house

2011-02-20T14:33:00.012+01:00

The third home I visited when I was in Iceland last summer, was the home of Icelandic interior architect, Rut Kara.

The feature is now to be seen in Bo Bedre, Norway and will soon be printed in the Danish version also. I am very happy the way it turned out, and I guess Bo Bedre is also since it made this month´s cover ;-)

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Gerdur Hardardottir

Photography workshop

2011-02-17T18:51:00.017+01:00

The last two days, my house has been filled the sweet girls from Norwegian Elle Interior (soon to be named Elle Decoration!). The reason for their visit has been a two days course in digital photography for beginners. Yesterday, after a day with lots of theoretic blabber about the difference between shutters and f-stops, we continued the evening with logs in the fireplace, a few glasses of chablis and a lovely vietnamese dinner (recipes to come!). Nice! Exhausted by all the numbers and new expressions, we all went down early, to wake up rested and ready for a new day of learning and teaching.

They headed back home this afternoon tired, but happy and with lots of new knowledge to bring in to their new discovered world of photography. We´ll hopefully see some great results on their blog after this!

PS! I am thinking about holding a course in photography for bloggers (In Norway only, I´m afraid),

so if you´re interested, please let me know and I´ll try to set one up.

Image by Sunny Papico found on Flickr!

Empty walls...

2011-02-13T20:29:00.017+01:00

Still haven´t gotten around to put anything up on my walls and there´s many empty spaces to cover. As a photographer you might wonder why I don´t put any of my own images up, but there´s something about it... Don´t have The image of my own that I really like, so I guess I have to keep searching for the perfect one. I´m more in to photography and prints than paintings as artwork, so collages like this one from Base 212 is right up my alley!

My style...

2011-02-11T19:22:00.014+01:00

After getting my things up from the basement and down from the loft, I guess it´s time to show you my style. Not a very colorful palette is there? :-) The walls are desperately waiting to become white, so is the floor, but I´m afraid that has to wait a little longer. Now I just want to enjoy having a livingroom without a kitchen area for a while, before I start tearing things apart again...

Photography: Trine Thorsen

I´m back!

2011-02-11T18:31:00.014+01:00

My blog has definately been put aside lately, I have had too many projects going on so there hasn´t been much time. I´m sorry!

Here´s what happened...

My boyfriend went away on a three weeks trip to L.A, so I decided to get things organized while he was away (I guess to be nice, but also because I was fed up living like we have been the past 1 1/2 years. I took some action without him knowing... Oops! With great help from my wonderful mother we began working. The following three weeks we sanded and painted windows in the kitchen, unpacked tons of boxes with kitchen stuff, hung up lamps in several rooms, washed down walls, moved furnitures around (with help from great neighbours), sanded and painted the new built toilet upstairs etc. etc. It was hard work, but great fun to see the all the changes. Finished the last coat in the new toilet upstairs right in time, just one hour before my very tired and jetlagged man came in the door, and a very tired me kissed him hello and goodbye and left for Paris.

There´s still things missing (like cupboard doors, mouldings and the right countertop), but that´s ok. It´s definately a whole lot better than cooking my dinner in the living room and having to go down to the basement to get some water ;-)

Merci Merci!

2011-02-01T22:25:00.004+01:00

You gotta go next time your in Paris!

www.merci-merci.com

Paris-Antwerpen!

2011-01-16T23:26:00.009+01:00

Jeg har lenge hatt lyst til å besøke denne byen og førstkommende helg bærer det av sted. Det blir en liten svipptur innom Paris først, til messen Maison & Objet, før vi setter oss på toget videre til Antwerpen.

Der blir det fire dager med deilig inspirasjon, god mat og kanskje litt shopping i en by jeg har hørt skal være helt fantastisk! Har du vært der, vær så snill å send meg tips på steder jeg bør besøke.

:-)

I have for a long time wanted to visit Antwerpen and this coming weekend I am heading off!

A small stop in Paris at the Maison & Objet, before we head further to this fantastic city. We will spend four days with great inspiration, good food and maybe a little bit of shopping in a city I´ve heard is supposed to be amazing! If you´ve been there, pleeease send me some great tips for places to visit.

:-)

Food thoughts...

2011-01-11T22:04:00.010+01:00

Poster by 3 lamb studio, found on flickr!

Great gadgets!

2011-01-08T19:27:00.028+01:00

If you hate to be alone...

Cool cuttingboard

Definately "my cup of tea"!

Love me stamp

Don´t know what to vote?

Care for some candy?

Want a moustache?

For your salade...

Mine gode venn og forhenværende romkamerat, Jean Sebastien Ides er en av to bak det Paris baserte firmaet Atypyk. Mens Jean Seb for det meste grubler, tegner, designer og kreerer, sitter kompanjongen Ivan i "sjefstolen" og tar seg av markedsføringen og alt det andre som må til for å drive en vellykket business, men sammen kommer de opp med de morsomste ting du ikke trenger, men bare MÅ ha!

My good friend and ex roommate, Jean Sebastien Ides is one of the two guys behind the French company Atypyk. While Jean Seb draws, designs and creates, his companion, Ivan is the "big boss" and in charge of the more serious side of the business. Together they come up with the greatest ideas on the funniest things you don´t really need, but just got to have!

Images found on atypyk.com

Cool stool!

2011-01-04T22:53:00.010+01:00

I´ve been in love with this high stool from Danish Mater since I layed my eyes on it for the first time a couple of years ago. The stool is designed by Danish designers Signe Bindslev and Peter Bundgaard Rützou, and is handcrafted in dark stained North American white oak. The stool is made in a small Indian wood workshop which is participating in the sustainable business development program Susbiz India.

Image found on materdesign.com

J´aime!

2011-01-04T22:20:00.009+01:00

Elsker trykkene til den svenske designeren Therese Sennerholt!

Love the prints from Swedish designer Therese Sennerholt!

Images found on theresesennerholtshop.se

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T17:06:00.002+01:00

Happy happy!

2010-12-30T16:44:00.014+01:00

Wishing you all a Happy New Year! Hope 2011 will be wonderful!

Thanks a lot to all of you that has stopped by my blog this year. Hope to see you next year too!

Image by love stitching red on flickr

An early start...

2010-12-29T21:47:00.012+01:00

Allerede før jula ringte inn i forrige uka begynte stylist Tara og jeg likeså godt å forberede oss til neste jul (greit å være tidlig ute!). Tradisjonen tro ble det bakt syv slag og alle ble fotografert på hver sin måte med mitt nye (enda umøblerte) kjøkken som kulisse. Saken får dere se i Boligdrøms julenummer som kommer ut i nov/desember i 2011.

A few days before Christmas last week, stylist Tara and I started preparing for next year´s Christmas celebration (we like to be ahead of time...). Seven of our traditional Christmas cakes was baked and shot with my (still empty) kitchen as a backdrop. The feature will be on in the new Norwegian magazine Boligdrøm´s next year´s Christmas issue sometime in Nov/Dec 2011.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Tara Ballantyne

A few days to go...

2010-12-28T21:11:00.011+01:00

2010 er snart over (tror jeg vil si heldigvis!), og det er tid for å kjøpe ny innmat til Filofaxen

(den elektroniske varianten har ikke helt gått helt hjem hos meg enda, selv med både Iphone og Ical for hånden). Foruten en kalender til veskebruk tror jeg jeg skal spandere på meg denne veggkalenderen fra Hayshop. Den er kuul, den er praktisk (kan brukes år etter år!) og den er helt meg ;-)

2010 is ( finally) soon to be over and the time has come to change my Filofax calendar ( I am still not in to the electronic kind even with both Iphone and Ical on my hands). In addition to a calendar to put in my handbag, I think I´ll treat myself to this wall calendar from Hayshop. Not only is it cool, it is also practical (you never need to replace it!). It is also very me ;-)

Hayshop.dk

Merry x-mas!

2010-12-23T17:39:00.012+01:00

Wishing you a happy holiday!

Photography: Trine Thorsen

My creative workspace

2010-12-19T15:00:00.020+01:00

Det første rommet som ble pusset opp i huset var det som skulle bli mitt hjemmekontor. Med masse utklipp og bilder til inspirasjon hadde jeg sett for meg at det skulle bli et rom på høyde med disse. Jeg drømte om en kreativ og visuelt vakkert arbeidsrom der veggene skulle være fylt av lekre og inspirerende utklipp, en gamle kontorstol til å sitte på, og industrilamper på skrivebordet og i taket. For ikke å snakke om alt det gamle kontorutstyret jeg har kjøpt og samlet på de siste årene, som møysommelig skulle danderes og styles på skrivepulten. Det jeg glemte i farten var at jeg som fotograf er avhengig av en 30 tommers dataskjerm når jeg redigerer bilder, en god stol når jeg sitter timer foran skjermen, og mye plass på skrivebordet til alt papiret, huskelappene, "to do" mappene etc. Følelser hadde tatt overhånd for fornuften- igjen! Etter et par uker på en gammel, knirkete (men gud så fiin!) rusten kontorstol som hverken kunne justeres opp eller ned, en overfylt arbeidspult med altfor mye "stæsh", måtte jeg bare innse at slaget var tapt. Misfornøyd byttet jeg ut stolen til en mer komfortabel (og billigere) variant fra Ikea og ryddet overflødig stæsh vekk. Det eneste som fikk lov til å være igjen var industrilampene og utklippene på veggen.

:-(

The first room we redecorated in the house was the room that was to become my homeoffice. With tons of of lovely images in front of me, cut out from miscellaneous magazines, I had pictured my room to be just like one of these...I dreamt of a room with a desktop overfilled with the old office utensils I had collected over the past years, inspirational tearsheets on the walls, and old industrial chairs and lamps. What I forgot was that as a photographer I am depended on a large LCD screen to work on my images, a good, comfortable chair to sit in the hours I spend in front of the computer, and a desk with room for all my papers, Post It notes and "to do" lists to remind me of what has to be done (getting old here...). I guess feelings came before my senses- again! After a few weeks on an old, schreeching (but oh sooo beautiful!) office chair, an overfilled with way to much stuff, I had to admit that my "battle" was lost. I sadly exchanged the chair for a more comfortable (and cheaper!) kind, and cleaned the crowded desk for beautifully styled stuff. The only thing that I kept behind was the industrial lamps and and the tearsheets on the wall... :-(

All images found on Rum.dk

Sneak preview: The kitchen...

2010-12-11T08:31:00.032+01:00

That was then....

This is now!

Kjøkkenet begynner å ta form noe som er veldig stas! I forrige uke ble gulvene beiset og oljet, i helgen blir listeverket grunnet og malt og i neste uke kommer elektrikeren for å sette opp det elektriske.

Det er fremdeles mye frem og tilbake når det gjelder kjøkkeninnredningen... Planen var å bygge den selv, men etter mye om og men, diskusjoner (for ikke å snakke om krangler!), utfordringer, mangel på verktøy og ikke minst tiden det vil ta, har jeg begynt å miste lysten. Jeg vil ha et kjøkken nå! Problemet er at jeg er litt sær, og liker få av de tingene jeg ser som er ferdigprodusert og som passer vårt budsjett.

Så nå tar jeg en runde med alle leverandørenes 3D planleggingsverktøy og ser om jeg finner noe som passer i smak, stil og ikke minst pris!

På tide å vinne i Lotto!

The kitchen is starting to take shape which is veeery exciting! Last week the floors were whitewashed and oiled, this weekend I will paint the mouldings. Next week the electrician will come and install lamps etc.

It is still a lot of back and forth regarding the kitchen interior. Our plan was to build the interior ourselves, but after hours of planning, discussing (and arguing!), we are now reconsidering. The challenge with the tools we have in possession, the time it will take build it and the big investments of tools to finish it, has made me dreading it. I want a kitchen now! The only thing is that I have a hard time finding a kitchen that suits my taste and budget.

So my next step will be to download all the kitchen suppliers 3d planning tools and see if I can find something that suits my style, taste- and not to say the least- my budget!

Time to win the lottery...

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Sneak preview: cool wool!

2010-12-11T08:29:00.014+01:00

Ryggen blir bedre og bedre for hver dag og jeg har smått begynt å jobbe igjen. Jippiii!

Jobbing = hyppigere sniktitt på bloggen :-).

I forrige uke laget jeg denne trendsaken på temaet ull og strikk sammen med stylist Kirsten Visdal. Bildene kommer i Interiørmagasinets første 2011 nummer som er i salg fra 12.januar.

My back is getting better and better each day and I have slowly started to work again. Yeah!!! Work means frequent sneak previews on my blog :-).

Last week I did this feature on trendy knits together with stylist Kirsten Visdal. The images will be shown in the first 20011 issue of Interiørmagasinet, which is on sale from January 12th.

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Styling: Kirsten Visdal

Cookie time!

2010-11-29T22:35:00.011+01:00

The Christmas issue of Maison Mat &Vin is out and so is our feature on cookies and cakes. Will share a recipe from the feature with you here. More delicious recipes are found in the magazine which I believe is sold in Norway only... :-(

Frosted lime sugar cookies

You need:

250 g flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
113 g butter
200 g granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lime juice

For frosting:

460 g confectioners’ sugar
2 egg whites (***note pregnant women or very young children should avoid raw egg
whites. Meringue powder can be substituted)
water

Cookies:

Preheat oven to 165 degrees and prepare baking pan.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder.
In a separate bowl with an electric mixer, cream together sugar and butter until fluffy.
Beat in egg. Add flour mixture to bowl and stir on low speed until combined. Cover
dough and chill for 30 minutes.
On a floured surface, roll out dough to and cut into desired shapes. Bake for 8-10 minutes
or until edges just begin to brown. Cool on a wire rack and prepare frosting.

Frosting:

Sift confectioners’ sugar into a large bowl and add egg whites. With an electric mixer,
combine ingredients. Slowly add water, a little bit at a time, until desired consistency is
reached.
*makes about one dozen cookies

*Cooks tip:
Let shapes dry overnight so that icing sets completely before packaging.

Photography: Trine Thorsen
Food & styling: Tara Ballantyne

Waiting...

2010-11-29T22:00:00.002+01:00

Det har ikke blitt så mange bilder av huset og oppussingen her på bloggen som jeg hadde tenkt. Tanken var å vise før og etter bilder, men ting går som vi vet ikke alltid helt som planlagt (mye overaskelser i gamle hus!).
Da det regnet som verst i sommer oppdaget jeg til min store fortvilelse vann som rant fra loftet og ned i soverommet. Brått stoppet prosjekt bad opp, taket måtte skiftes.Vi har i flere måneder ventet på en lokal (og veldig populær) snekker som først sa han skulle komme i september, så i oktober, så november, deretter i desember, men nå med siste beskjed januar.

I tillegg venter vi i spenning på en visstnok fantastisk ny type gulvolje (bestilt fra Tyskland) som vi skal behandle det nylagte gulvet på kjøkkenet med.

Det blir nok ikke noe ferdig kjøkken til jul slik vi hadde håpet (vi håpet på det i fjor også men det er en annen historie), men som vi alle vet; den som venter på noe godt, venter ikke forgjeves...

I haven´t been showing you too many images from the house and the renovation as I planned, but we all know things don´t always turn out the way we want them to. During a heavy rainstorm this summer, I noticed water dripping from the ceiling in our bedroom. The roof was leaking!
Suddenly "project bathroom" stopped, the roof had to go first! We have for several months now been waiting for a local (and very popular) carpenter who first said he was coming in September, then October, then November, so December and the last thing we heard- in January. In addition to that we are waiting for a fanastic new organic white oil (coming all the way from Germany) to go on the new kitchen floor. So I guess there won´t be any new kitchen this Christmas either (we hoped so last year too, but that is a whole different story!). But as they say; all good things come to those who wait...

Image by Trine Thorsen

China chic!

2010-11-26T17:09:00.014+01:00

Designer Silje Aune Eriksen lager de fineste ting i hvit porselen. Som dette nydelige lille fatet med fugler... Fatet får du kjøpt på hviit.no til den nette sum av 400,- kroner.

Designer Silje Aune Eriksen creates the nicest white china. Like this cute litt bird plate... You can get this and many of her other great designs online at hviit.no

Photography: Trine Thorsen

Same same but diffelent...

2010-11-25T22:09:00.020+01:00

Kjæresten min er av den sta typen, og når han har fått det for seg at han aldri skal begynne med briller da er det slik. Selv om bruksanvisninger blir vanskeligere og vanskeligere å lese (han skylder på dårlig lys), og trykksakene oftere og oftere kommer nærmere ansiktet hver gang noe trengs å tydes, trengs det ikke briller her i gården...

Kanskje denne saken fra Hay er en fin julegaveidé? Et forstørrelsesglass i forkledning... Ja, for forstørrelsesglass er i følge han heeelt greit å bruke... :-)

My boyfriend is quite stubborn, and when he has decided that he is never going to buy supscription glasses, that´s the way it is. Even if instruction manuals are getting harder to read each day (he is blaming it on the bad lighting), and they tend to come closer everytime something needs to be read, there ain´t no need for glasses here...

Maybe this cool little thing from Hay is the perfect Christmas gift? A magnifying glass in disguise... Yes, because a magnifying glass is according to him perfectly alright to use... :-)

Postcard from Norway

2010-11-25T21:35:00.010+01:00

Vinteren er definitivt her! Om ikke det er så mye snø her jeg bor er det i hvertfall kaldt nok...Brrr!!! Selv om jeg synes norsk sommer er noe av det vakreste som finnes med lange dager og lyse netter, må jeg vel si at vinteren kan være ganske så magisk den også. I hvertfall når alt er hvitt og snøen henger tungt på trærne...

Winter is definately here. There´s still lack of snow where I live but it sure is cold. Brrr!!!! Even though I prefer Norwegian summers with its 20 hours of daylight rather than the winter with only six, winters here can be amazing too! Especially when everything is white like this...

Image by Norwegian photographer Hogne found on flickr