Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Vandaag: a northern breath of fresh air

Great sign and an exterior you can't miss
 
Sleek interior at Vandaag
photos: vandaagnyc.com

Needing to warm up with a cup o' joe, we popped into a new venue (for us) in the East Village. The place was called Vandaag. Maybe we were lured in by the sign outside that promised "Bierrestaurant." Or maybe it was the window framed in bright yellow. When we walked in, the initial feeling was good - an open space and an immediate welcome from the hostess. All great chi features! As a designer, I was amused every time I turned my head: an unexpected bike in the center of the space, dark sexy tiles in the bathroom. Obviously, everything was very well thought out. Coffee wasn't bad either but I just had one qualm.

Every time I picked up my coffee cup, the teaspoon would fall to the center of the saucer. Small detail I know, but as a designer I couldn't help overlook it and as a Feng Shui consultant, it bugged my chi each time I picked up my cup and wanting to place it back down, couldn't. Luckily I got smart fast and placed the teaspoon on the table. My calm quickly resumed just in time for the arrival of a delicious frisian suger bread. Since this isn't a food blog - although I often restrain myself - I won't go into the food details. Just check out their menu here.


The culprit and its accomplice
all other photos: schan


Beautiful design details

And my favorite - the orange bike!

This space gave us a reprieve from all the retro dark wood that has been infiltrating interior design in New York lately. My only one suggestion - add some lush green plants to balance out the cool textures and clean lines. Then, save me a seat!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Happy Chinese New Year 2011!


Happy Year of the Rabbit! To encourage a positive start, spend some time today doing something that makes you feel good. It can be just taking a small break to get your favorite cup of tea or even doing something nice for somebody else which in turn, will make you feel great. Positive energy is contagious!

Then have your favorite meal tonight and finish it off with aromatic oranges that will infuse your home with auspicious chi. This weekend, share a meal with friends to welcome in the new year together. We are invited this weekend to a dumpling party with some dear friends. I can't think of a better way to start the new year! Wishing you all a very peaceful and harmonious new year of the Metal Rabbit!