The Grounds (Coffee The Australian Way)

I have lived in the Pacific Northwest for the past six and a half years. I am now passionate about my cup of coffee!! The endless rain in this area does that to you :) My Dad and Mom were visiting me this summer. It was an early morning ritual for my Dad to hand me a cup of coffee as soon as I woke up. Yes......I know what you are thinking....I am spoilt :) I do miss him... and the coffee now that he is back home :)  The weather here has managed to convert my mom as well. She now likes coffee........ finally...... at the age of sixty four!!

You can imagine my excitement when I saw the images of this coffee store based in Australia! Located in an old pie factory from the early 1900’s, The Grounds of Alexandria is the flagship venue for its specialty coffee. The site hosts a coffee research and testing facility and a cafe which opens into a garden filled with vegetables and fragrant herbs. I agree it is quite a distance for me to travel to get a cup of coffee:) However, I can enjoy it virtually and share it with you. Australia always makes me nostalgic. I made numerous work related trips to Oz many years ago. I have fond memories of my time there!

This cafe has  been short listed for the Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) in hospitality in Australia.  Click here to visit the Grounds.

I am off to brew my own cup of coffee in a less glamorous setting:) Have a beautiful day.

Images: via

Fabulous Finds Architectural Pillar Holders

This week's Fabulous Finds on MDC are these unusual architectural pillar holders from Pottery Barn. I like them because they are different from the usual metal, wood and glass pillar holders you see everywhere.

The pillars are made out of mango wood. I like the carving and the weathered and distressed finish. I think the white candles give it a classy look. However, I might use a different shade just to add a pop of color.......warm earthy tones would be my choice:)

Click here to visit Pottery Barn. They are having a huge sale and these pillar holders are on sale too:)

Images: via