Now that spring has finally arrived, I find myself really drawn to fresh, new styles.
Now that spring has finally arrived, I find myself really drawn to fresh, new styles. My energy is focused on finding inspiring things no one else has, like fabrics that are totally not common styles from typical vendors. Bespoke items that no one will walk into a room, look at, and say, “I have that same fabric on my pillows,” is the kind of look I love.
Cloud in Glitter by Studio Bon TextilesTurkish Maze from VanderhurdHerringbone Cool by ArjumandI am loving this Duralee line by Tilton Fenwick. It’s a go-to in my library!
Choosing fabric is an integral part of what I do as a designer. Window treatments, pillows, and upholstery are essential elements of a space, providing opportunities to add color and texture. Fabrics let us explore creativity and embellish with unique details.
Embroidered fabric from Seemakrish.Ferrick Mason: Great color!Zap by HB Home
When choosing fabric, it is very important to be mindful of lifestyle when selecting fabrics. Homes with children and pets should have fabric that is more durable and easy to clean. Making wise choices is essential. You wouldn’t want something delicate on a sofa, for example. Having a source of versatile fabrics allows even the busiest, most active homes to enjoy beautiful fabrics in many different applications.
Rainbow in Straw by Lulu DK.Ric Rac by HB Home in Sweet Pea. What a great color!Echo by HB Luxe
A chandelier should be playful, like jewelry for the room.
When choosing chandeliers, I’ve lately been drawn to pieces that are not your typical eight, ten, or twelve bulb lighting element. I enjoying finding chandeliers that are composed of different heights or clusters of pendants. Even in a traditional space, a modern nod can lighten up the setting. A chandelier should be playful, like jewelry for the room. I also like the idea of installing a vintage chandelier, something with history. Here are some of my favorite examples of really great chandeliers:
1. Bocci 14 Series: Serves as decorative artwork as well as a light source.
2. Infinity Cluster: This pendant light fixture by John Pomp Studios has 15 hand-blown sculpted glass canopies at different heights. Absolutely beautiful! Plus, the options are endless.
3. Hector Finch: For those who want a traditional feeling but with a slight modern feel.
4. Another project of mine featuring a great, funky chandelier.
5. Lumière Chandelier by Jean de Merry: Always a classic, a zest of brass and something unexpected.
6. This masculine chandelier was perfect for one of my clients.
In both fashion and design, it is often the small details that tie a look together.
In both fashion and design, it is often the small details that tie a look together. When these details are in the form of embellishments, a look can be made eye-catching and unique.
Brindisi Chandelier from Niermann Weeks.Jewelry by Charlotte Hosten.Ankasa Pillow
Embellishments can add sparkle or color, brighten with reflective surfaces, and coordinate with other aspects of the design. You can use embellishments for a grounding effect or an added touch of prettiness.
Ottoman from Tomlinson/Erwin-LambethFrom Vogue ParisSnakawaka Posts, carved from salvaged branches.
Think of ways to give your interior, or your outfit, a hint of glamor or just the right detail to elevate it or add an unexpected bit of flair.
Image via ZsaZsa BellagioOpaline Trim from Samuel and SonsGown by Basil Soda
This year, Pantone chose Radiant Orchid as the Color of the Year.
This year, Pantone chose Radiant Orchid as the Color of the Year. This color has a lot of saturation and really lends itself to pulling in both lighter and deeper hues of fuschia for balance. Radiant Orchid is fearless and radiates femininity. It also reminds me of a well dressed man in a beautiful suit with a gorgeous pop of color underneath. That’s the true genius of this color; I think even a real guy’s guy can wear it and exude confidence. This color is seductive. While it isn’t a color everyone would immediately think of when designing an interior, it can be used very well. I think Amanda Nesbit (see cover image) was ahead of her time in using this color in her designs. This color sparks inspiration. As Pantone describes it, “Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health,” which we all wish for in a prosperous new year. What do you think of Radiant Orchid?
Horses have long held the admiration and imagination of people.
Tomorrow night we’ll say goodbye to 2013 and welcome a New Year full of possibilities and new opportunities. 2014 will also be The Year of the Horse, according to the Chinese Zodiac. Horses have long held the admiration and imagination of people. These strong, beautiful animals and their close relationship to mankind throughout history are deservedly admired for their grace and their role in human history. It’s no wonder that so many artists, including interior and fashion designers, turn to the horse for inspiration. In the Chinese Zodiac, the horse is known for being warm-hearted, strong, and intelligent. Incorporating equestrian themed designs into your home or style naturally conveys these same attributes.
I’ve featured some of this photography in the past, but I think it’s worth sharing again. A stunning piece of horse photography is a dramatic art choice for any room. Lisa Cueman, Bob Tabor, and Roberto Dutesco are three photographers whose horse images are simply incredible.
Photo by Lisa CuemanRoberto DutescoLisa CuemanRoberto DutescoBob Tabor ImagesRoberto Dutesco
In interior design, using equestrian art or other horse-themed elements can add style to a room without being too overdone. You can use items such as saddles or stirrups as accents, or go with a more subtle look by incorporating equestrian patterns. Think of leather, warm tones, natural materials, and elegance.
A room I designed for a client.By Leslie Cohen DesignFrom Elle DecorDesign by Mar SilverUsing equestrian elements as accents. From Apartment Therapy.Design by Thom FiliciaA more subtle equestrian influence. Design by Patrik Lonn.
There are also a lot of great ways to add an equestrian flair to your wardrobe. I love the idea of adding a really cool accessory to give your look just a hint of the equestrian without being over the top.
Iconic Hermes scarf.Equestrian belt by Ralph Lauren.Another gorgeous Hermes scarf.Hermes Cuff
How would you incorporate an equestrian feel to your home or wardrobe?
Lately I have been all about wallpaper, and Maya Romanoff is one of my favorites.
Lately I have been all about wallpaper, and Maya Romanoff is one of my favorites. The designs are so unique and textural, with some really unusual pieces. You can transform a room into something incredible with these luxurious wall coverings.
Slink Hand Painted Vinyl – I’ve used this on the face front of several interior entry doors. A clever way to spice up a plain flat door.Meditations Ohm. All of the colors are spectacular. Love the organic process of this paper.Moon Lake. Such interesting texture.
When I design a room, I always start with the walls. For me, it’s all about the walls! I love having so many stunning options, from papers with metals to beads. Maya Romanoff has some papers, like their true metals, that would be great for a ceiling.
True Metals Basketweave — One of my favorites. I love the sheen. So interesting for a ceiling.For a bit of glam!Hamptons living room with Maya Romanoff paper, by Jeffrey Bilhuber. Image via Room Lust on Flickr.
The quality and craftsmanship of Maya Romanoff products is amazing. Their handmade papers are so well executed, truly works of art in their own right.
Gilded Cloth: Hand placed metal leaf on canvas.Blanket Zig Zag – I love the warmth and detail of this. Really looking forward to installing it in a library.
To see more examples of Maya Romanoff wall coverings, visit their website. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.
Navy and gray make a great combination and are so satisfying during short, chilly days!
This time of year, with cold weather setting in, I begin to gravitate toward heavier, textural fabrics and colors. I think of handsome, masculine hues and the pleasure of wrapping yourself in cashmere and wool. Two colors that I associate with this season are navy and gray. They make a great combination and are so satisfying during short, chilly days!
Adding a scarf to an outfit changes your look in an instant.
I love scarves. Adding a scarf to an outfit changes your look in an instant. Once the weather cools, I love the feeling of being wrapped up in a scarf and the way it adds color and texture to my look. If you have a few simple outfits as a foundation, wearing different scarves changes the whole ensemble. Like a new pillow in the living room, a scarf is a great accessory that adds a punch of color. When winter sets in, there is nothing like a fur scarf (faux is fine!), to warm you up while also feeling luxurious. There are endless options with scarves once you think of all the possible colors, styles, and materials as well as the many ways you can wear or tie this interchangeable accessory. Some of my favorite scarves have been in my collection for years; some never go out of style and others come back. The popularity of scarves can even be translated to your home design. They can be made into pillows, as one example.
Here are some examples of great scarves for fall and winter. With such a range of possible styles, you can find the perfect scarf for almost any outfit or occasion.
5. Yigal Azrouel Lady Face Scarf. Yigal Azrouel scarves are my favorite. They are large and have such impact in design. The best accessory of all time!
When it comes to my own wardrobe, I don’t think of it as being divided into day or night wear.
I am so fortunate to have the freedom to wear what I want during the day without being obligated to follow a corporate dress code. Most times, what I wear when working can be easily translated into what I wear for a night out. My approach to dressing stems from watching how my mom handled her wardrobe when I was a kid. She had clothes for working during the day and clothes for going out at night, but she never mixed the two. She had an approach to dressing that worked for her, and from that I learned to be confident about developing my own style.
When it comes to my own wardrobe, I don’t think of it as being divided into day or night wear. My style is similar to my taste in other areas, which is to start with a basic look that’s appropriate for meeting with clients or working around the office. My typical outfit of black clothing and heels is often perfect for going out after a day of work. Here are some examples of items I’m likely to wear during the day:
Great shirt by Helmut Lang.Kiel Leather LeggingsManolo Blahnik Leopard Print PumpsYassi Harari Hoop Earrings
When making the transition from day to evening, having a simple base wardrobe means you can change out accessories to give your look an edgier vibe. By changing your shoes or jewelry, you can give yourself a funkier look that’s perfect for drinks out with friends.
These Jimmy Choo booties add a shot of color to your look.Scarab Drop Earrings by Eddie Borgo add something fun rather than something safe.
There are other items that I’d easily wear both during the day and at night. I’d be as comfortable meeting a client to look at samples as I would meeting my best friend for dinner dressed this way. If you don’t have the same wardrobe freedom at work, starting with a few basics that can be mixed and livened up with different accessories is a great way to be ready to unwind and have fun after a day at the office.
Rag & Bone blazer, perfect for fall.Kerry Studded Cap Sleeve DressFalabella Fold Over Clutch, classic and appropriate for day or night.
What are your strategies for taking your look from day to night?
You have a great opportunity to create a whimsical, playful space with a butler’s pantry.
Traditionally, a butler’s pantry served an essential function in large, wealthy, European estate homes. In these homes, the butler’s pantry was the domain of the home’s butler, who used this area as both an office and a place to store and inventory valuable silver and china. In this space, the butler would keep track of household matters, oversee staff, and carry out his many responsibilities. In fact, the butler’s pantry was so crucial to the running of the household that the butler often slept there.
A modern butler’s pantry serves a similar purpose, giving the home additional storage space and staging area. It’s a nice alternative to storing china and serving pieces in a large hutch, allowing you to minimize furniture in the dining room and free up space in the kitchen. It can act as an extension of the kitchen, providing more counter space for prep and clean up when entertaining. The butler’s pantry is also a good place for a wine cellar, giving you ease of access whether you choose to install a small wine refrigerator or something more extensive. When entertaining, it’s nice to not have to go far to select a bottle of wine.
Design by Christopher Peacock, House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year 2013Tracery Interiors designed this bright butler’s pantry.Classic butler’s pantry by Pursley Dixon Architecture.
The butler’s pantry doesn’t have to be strictly utilitarian. You have a great opportunity to create a whimsical, playful space. Consider taking risks with this smaller, less public part of the kitchen by using different materials. Elements such as tiles, stone, and colors don’t have to match the rest of the kitchen. The butler’s pantry can be a jewel box of a room!
Miles Redd designed this pantry with gorgeous blue lacquer cabinets.Great use of hammered metal in the Paris home of Jean Louis Deniot.The artwork makes this space, designed by Mary Evelyn McKee.
Lastly, I’d like to share images of butler’s pantries I’ve designed for my own clients. There’s something so appealing about taking a traditional, functional space like this and incorporating it into a modern home. The goal is to keep the feel and usefulness of the room but make it relevant to the homeowner’s lifestyle.
A collaboration with True North Cabinets, this butler’s pantry features an eye catching back splash.For this bright pantry, I collaborated with DiBico Construction, Inc.I love the stone and wood of this pantry, a collaboration with Soundbeach Partners.
