Yes, South Korea is more than just K-dramas and boy bands! It's also a city filled with beautiful restaurants and cafés that are totally Instaworthy.
I was lucky enough to have visited Seoul a few years ago, and was blown away by how vibrant and energetic the city was. I also saw so much creativity and innovation, and can totally understand why it seems like the world has fallen in love with everything South Korean. In this post, let's get inspired by Seoul, South Korea!
1. Midnight in Seoul
A perfect example of kitschy done right! Who knew that pink neon lights, fake palm trees, and a feather boa wall go so well together!?
I think these would be super fun ideas to try out for a home office. Unless you absolutely love your job (lucky you if you do – I'm dreaming of winning the lottery so I can quit!), we need to make each work day as enjoyable as possible, and a fun work space is a great place to start. Cute accessories, amusing wall decorations, colorful lighting . . . the sky's the limit!
And if you're concerned about needing to attend a serious work meeting over Zoom, well, that's what virtual backgrounds are for!
2. Stylenanda Pink Pool Cafe
I have to admit, I'm not sure how I feel about that cactus and those two egg things, but they definitely caught my attention! And with all that pink, Barbie will surely approve!
What I particularly like is the clever use of different shades of pink to create a monochromatic look that's still very liveable. An excellent way to use those colors that you may otherwise be a bit hesitant to try out. I love purple, but had always thought that purple accessories make my décor look too mismatched. Who knows, maybe an all-purple room is the way to go!
3. Lovin' Her
I'm an absolute sucker for beautiful flower cafés, but interestingly enough, I don't go overboard with taking photos. It's really more for the feeling of being in a beautiful space, having a coffee or dessert, and then just enjoying being in that moment. I guess that's what people mean when they say "mindfulness."
Yes, I know white walls are very polarizing and most people either love them or hate them. I'm definitely on Team Love! White walls bring such an airiness to the room and make any room look so much bigger and brighter. Plus, think of white walls as a blank canvas where you can let your personality shine!
White pairs beautifully with light gray to create a modern neutral palette, while pink provides the right amount of warmth. If a wall of artificial flowers isn't your thing, try creating your own DIY showcase piece. A friend of mine made a super cute pink and white yo-yo quilt that she hung on her wall – it looked like falling cherry blossoms!
4. STAY at SIGNIEL SEOUL
An uber fancy modern French restaurant that looks so chic, you'll think you're actually in Paris! Classic black and white paired perfectly with bright pops of yellow and gold – magnifique!
Another great example of why I'm Team Love for white walls! OK, fine, technically off-white in this case, but white provides the perfect backdrop for toning down colors that may otherwise seem a bit much. Imagine if the walls here were painted any other color – it's just not the same.
What particularly caught my eye is the matching yellow ceiling! I think most of us play it safe and are hesitant to venture far from various shades of matte white. But with the right color in the right shade, the effect can be striking. Maybe it's time to step out of our comfort zone!
5. SAEM
An ultra minimalistic café for those who embrace less is more! But the look isn't just about being empty and keeping the space clutter-free. Combined with wood furniture in a soft beige color (maybe maple?) and green plants strategically backlit against the wall, it creates a space that feels warm and relaxing. Kinda like being in nature, but with strong espresso within arm's reach!
I personally love this look for my dining area. Simple and unfussy, allowing the food and great conversations between family and friends to take center stage. And being easy to clean up is an added bonus!
I think what Seoul has taught me is to not be afraid to express yourself in whatever way you want. You want neon lights? Go knock yourself out. Want to match them up with palm trees or a cacti? Go right ahead. Want nothing but chairs and a table? Absolutely. No one has the right to judge you for choosing the type of home you want to live in. So go ahead, have fun and just be yourself!