Harmony and Home Interior Design Blog

The Golden Mean and Modern Design

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 17:00:00 -0700

This is one of my most popular blog posts of all time. I thought that I would republish it. It is fun to re-read!

I was first introduced to the Golden Mean in an Elements of Design class. My professor, in her French accent, sat at the front of the class and slowly and methodically explained the Golden Mean and how it relates to many things in the world; architecture, art, music, design. It was fascinating to me then and still is today.

The Fibonacci Sequence

1 2 3 5 8 13 21 34 55 89
Every figure is the sum of the two preceding
1 2 + 3 = 5 8 13 + 21 = 34 55 89

O.K. Stay with me here… The Golden Section is devised from this ratio. When a Golden Rectangle is progressively subdivided into smaller and smaller Golden Rectangles, a pattern is obtained. From this, a spiral can be drawn which grows logarithmically, where the radius of the spiral, at any given point, is the length of the corresponding square to a Golden Rectangle.

The given symbol of Phi, which symbolizes the Golden Ratio

Since then, it’s opened up a lot of doors for me in how I look at design, how I look at architecture and how balance and harmony are present in the world.

Since the Renaissance it has been used extensively in art and architecture, it has been used in historical and important architectures, such as the St. Mark's Basilica and the Parthenon and has become a standard proportion for width in relation to height as used in facades of buildings, in window sizing, in first story to second story proportion, even in the dimensions of paintings and picture frames.

The Parthenon in Athens, Greece

Ceiling Mosaic in St. Marks Basilica

A geometrical analysis of the Great Mosque of Kairouan reveals a consistent application of the golden ratio throughout the design.

The Swiss architect Le Corbusier, famous for his contributions to the modern international style, centered his design philosophy on systems of harmony and proportion. Le Corbusier's faith in the mathematical order of the universe was closely bound to the golden ratio and the Fibonacci series.

Le Corbusier’s Villa Savoye, Poissy, France

Le Corbusier explicitly used the golden ratio in his Modulor system for the scale of architectural proportion. He saw this system as a continuation of the long tradition of Vitruvius, Leonardo da Vinci's "Vitruvian Man", the work of Leon Battista Alberti, and others who used the proportions of the human body to improve the appearance and function of architecture. In addition to the golden ratio, Le Corbusier based the system on human measurements, Fibonacci numbers, and the double unit.

Le Corbusier’s Modulor System

Le Corbusier took Leonardo's suggestion of the golden ratio in human proportions to an extreme: he sectioned his model human body's height at the navel with the two sections in golden ratio, then subdivided those sections in golden ratio at the knees and throat; he used these golden ratio proportions in the Modulor system.

Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man (ca. 1487)

Palladio’s Villa Rotunda

The Villa Rotonda is symmetrical on all axes, including diagonals. Any architect will tell you this is hard to do, much less sell to a client; even Palladio only did it once, probably just to see if he could. Palladio based his design on simple progressions in the Fibonacci series leading to the Golden Mean. This is also hard to do.

In India, the Golden Mean was used in the construction of the Taj Mahal,

which was completed in 1648.

Piet Mondrian used the golden section extensively in his geometrical paintings

And today, architects are still frequently using the Golden Mean or Ratio in their work…

The CN Tower in Toronto, the tallest tower and freestanding structure in the world, has contains the golden ratio in its design. The ratio of observation deck at 342 meters to the total height of 553.33 is 0.618 or phi, the reciprocal of Phi!

The College of Engineering at the California Polytechnic State University has a new Engineering Plaza based on the Fibonacci numbers.

What are your favorite examples of Fibonacci’s Golden Mean?

Congratulations to the Winner

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sat, 5 Oct 2013 09:57:00 -0700

Congratulations Lisa P, of Crystal Yoga Girl blog, who is the winner of Jan Shower's new interior design book, Glamorous Retreats! She will have this beautiful book on her coffee table in a few days!

You can check out Jan's new book HERE.

If you are looking for something to do this coming week that is design related, here is something you may want to put on the calendar if you are in the Chicago area.

Design Chicago, the Midwest's Interior Design Educational Conference takes place October 8-9. Join them for keynotes from Michael Smith (one of my favorites), Amy Preiser (Elle Decor Editor), Ralph Ricci (sponsored by Holly Hunt) and Newell Turner (Hearst Design Group). They will have many Showroom events and product debuts as well as "The Ones to Watch" Awards ceremony and reception.

You can find more information HERE.

Have a great weekend everyone!!

Becky

WIN Jan Showers Glamorous Retreats

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Wed, 25 Sep 2013 00:48:00 -0700

I love surprises. They don't come often enough. When I walk to my mailbox and have a package inside or when I open the door to find my neighbor with her coffee cup in hand... these are the types of moments that make life worth living.

Then, there are the special surprises that come even more infrequently. Last week I received one such surprise in the form of an email asking me to write a post on Jan Showers new book titled Glamorous Retreats. It is a beautiful book with gorgeous interiors and photography and one that I want to add to my library.

I immediately said, "YES!", but with one caveat! I asked if I could have one of her gorgeous hardcover books to give away to one of my readers!

So... One of my lucky readers is going to

win a copy of her book!

All you need to do is comment on the post and you will be entered to win!

(Good Luck!)

(Winner will be chosen through an automated random drawing method)

Glamorous Retreats Jan Showers

You may have heard of Jan Showers (wink wink), as she is one of the world's most popular interior designers with a flair toward chic, sophisticated and unique - characteristics that I require when designing a room.

Jan isn't your boring, typical interior designer. No way. She empowers the ability to mix "glam" and comfort in the same room. This is not an easy task and definitely not for the faint of heart.

It will come as no surprise then, that her new book, Glamorous Retreats, is chock full of examples of rooms that she has designed over the years with this same design aesthetic.

The ultra-chic Jan Showers

When I asked Jan about her new book, she was kind enough to send me a beautiful note and said , "[The book] took (not including the work I did on the houses over a 10-year period), a year of traveling and photographing the projects you see in the book and then another 6 months to write and edit. It was a true adventure!"

Jan Showers is also the author of the bestselling book, Glamorous Rooms (Abrams), which features a compilation of her work over the past 25 years. It is currently in its fourth printing.

Glamorous Rooms Jan Showers

Jan also noted "The reason I wanted to write another book is simple - I wanted to showcase the range of design and decorating style that we do. That fact there is such a variety, will appeal to many people who love interior design. They will also enjoy reading and seeing images of the locales as well as the people who live in and enjoy their retreats."

Nantucket House

Jan achieves her glamorous/comfortable look by combining a variety of periods and styles, as in the case of this dining room with a Louis XVI style table from the 1940's, combined with Coco chairs upholstered in faux patent leather with raffia backs. This combination is right on target for glam/comfort! Drama is enhanced with the beautiful Elizabeth Chandelier.

Florida Sunroom

Jan used 1960's vintage rattan furniture in this Florida sunroom to create a retro-inspired look. The chairs and sofa are upholstered in Lulu DK Porcupine to complete the retro look. Jan not only has a thriving interior design business, but is well known for her antiques business as well.

W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences

With a view as beautiful as this and floor to ceiling windows to take it all in, who could resist over-dramatizing the space? Jan designed it just right with a lucite game table and understated chairs by Opera One by Pierantonio Bonacin.

Luxe Lodge

This romantic bedroom in a Bachelor Gulch, Colorado home features a bed draped in Italian voile from Clarence House, selenite lamps, and Claudette x-frame benches with merisier (French word for cherrywood or wild cherry tree) wood bases topped with white cowhide. Silk draperies flank Conrad shades on the window. The wall treatment adds more dimension to the room and gives it an old world feel.

Toronto Sculture Garden

I won't give away the name of the owners of this beautiful property and the sculptures on it. You'll have to read Jan's book to find that out, but this is just a taste of the incredible talent that this sculptor has.

Beaver Creek Home

A late 1930's French game table paired with chairs with very linear lines provide a great contrast to the nature outside. Vintage amber glass is used in the space to emulate the colors of the earth and nature.

Living/Dining Room - Harbor Island Home

This living/dining room combo finds it's ease and comfort in the selection of furniture. Easy bamboo-inspired dining room table with cane-back chairs, a beachy striped rug and a vintage Hollywood Regency coffee table all say glamorous and comfortable - thank you very much. A John B. Gynell black and white print on the wall finishes the look and adds an air of sophistication. My favorites in the room have to be the blue gourd lamps and that fabulous chandelier!

Jan told me, "The book will take you from coast-to-coast in the U.S. with the addition of one project in Canada and another in the Bahamas (Harbour Island). There are beach houses done on smaller budgets and an entire 29th floor at the W residence in Dallas that was purchased for entertaining. The reader will not be bored!"

I will have to concur with Jan. The reader will most definitely not be bored!

If you would like the opportunity to win Jan Shower's Glamorous Retreats, please leave a comment below! One winner will be chosen on Friday, October 4th, 2013 (by an automated random drawing method). If you do not have a blog link, then please leave your email so we may contact you if you are the winner!

Good luck to everyone and have a wonderful weekend!!!

Becky

p.s. The book can be purchased here starting on October 8, 2013.

p.s.s. If you would like to receive my blog, just enter your email in the space at the top right!

URHOUZZ Gorgeous

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 1 Sep 2013 00:10:00 -0700

I mentioned a few weeks back that my day job is marketing for companies. My company is called ScribeTree, which you can find here. I named it ScribeTree because I provide content marketing - including social media - for my clients. It is my new passion and I work hard everyday along with teammates Mike and Greg to help companies be found on the internet.

One of my clients is the owner of URHOUZZ, a furniture company out of West Bloomfield, Michigan. You can read more about URHOUZZ here and here.

URHOUZZ

Woodland Creek Furniture

It's quite a pleasure helping URHOUZZ get some attention online because of my background in interior design. But, what's more important, I have gotten to know Rob Evina, the owner, over the last few months and he has proven to be someone very capable and deserving of success. His knowledge of business and concept of customer relationships is stellar. I want him to be successful because he works incredibly hard and deserves it.

I'll stop my gushing now and show you some photos of his products, which are pretty incredible themselves. All of these products can be found on his websites www.woodlandcreekfurniture.com and www.urhouzz.com. His URHOUZZ website is being remodeled and the new version will have a much more extensive product display.

(Make sure you read to the end of this post to learn about how to win a $5000 gift certificate for his Grand Opening on September 26th, as well as a $250 gift certificate through his Facebook contest!)

Rob founded his business more than a decade ago because he wanted to design unique, handcrafted furniture, while traveling the world during his career. He’s visited most of Eastern and Western Europe and Asia in search of unique accessories and furniture made from exotic woods.

Every piece manufactured by Woodland Creek Furniture and sold in their brand new West Bloomfield location will be beautifully crafted from reclaimed woods or responsibly harvested materials. More than 50 percent of their products are made in the U.S., and they’re proudly committed to manufacturing more than 30 percent in their Michigan workshop.

Any products that are sourced from abroad have been strategically selected based on a shared commitment to unique design, quality, and sustainability. These companies have pledged to manufacture furniture using reclaimed woods or fast-growing, sustainable plantation woods.

Setting them apart from their competitors, approximately 90 percent of the furniture

URHOUZZ sells will be entirely customizable in both size and finish.

Evina presently operates three retail stores and has a growing internet business (ScribeTree!). “Thanks to this little invention called the Internet, small businesses can compete with the big box stores.”

Rob's plan is simple..."listening to the customer, and designing and

crafting quality furniture that makes the customer smile."

URHOUZZ is opening their doors September 1st and their

Grand Opening Celebration will take place on September 26th.

Come by the new store to check out their extensive line of urban,

contemporary, cottage, old world and traditional furniture.

Here is a peek inside the new showroom!

URHOUZZ has many beautiful pieces of hand-crafted goods,

most of the customizable to fit your home.

Urban contemporary pieces are available and can be mixed with natural wood pieces

for a great mix of warm and cool.

URHOUZZ case goods are very versatile and unique.

The unique URHOUZZ designs will be the talk (and envy) of your neighborhood.

There are also many traditional styles available with contemporary touches.

The new showroom is loaded with vignettes of living rooms, dining rooms and more.

I predict that URHOUZZ furniture will become a part of many more American homes.

For a chance to win the URHOUZZ $5000 Grand Prize, you must visit the URHOUZZ showroom, located at 6648 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield, Michigan and submit an entry form in person. You do not need to be present to win.

For a chance to win the URHOUZZ Facebook $250 Gift Certificate, visit their Facebook site, "LIKE" the page and click on the "Contests" Tab. Enter your email and you will be entered to win.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend.

Becky

Where we love is home - home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts.

~ Oliver Wendell Holmes

A Castle Built for Love

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 18 Aug 2013 21:45:00 -0700

BOLDT CASTLE on Hart Island in the St. Lawrence River, New York is a castle built in the name of love.

Boldt Castle on Hart Island

Source: BoldtCastle.com

George C. Boldt (born Georg Karl Boldt), a German immigrant, was born in 1851 on the island of Rugen in the Baltic Sea. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1864 at the age of 13 and worked in a New York restaurant kitchen. Eventually he worked his way West to try his hand at ranching, but when things didn't work out in Texas, he returned to New York again, where he began working at another restaurant kitchen, eventually moving up to cashier and then management.

George C. Boldt

Source: Unknown

Louise Augusta Kehrer was born in 1862, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her father was William Kehrer, the steward of a famous Philadelphia Club.

Louise Augusta Kehrer

Source: Unknown

In 1876, George was appointed as steward at Louise's father's Clover Club in Philadelphia. George was twenty-six to Louise's fifteen. It was love at first sight. They were married on June 14th, 1877. It is said that George thought of his wife as a princess and treated her accordingly. They were deeply in love and only had eyes for each other. Their love was one of fairy tales.

George and Louise had two children, George Jr., born in 1879 and Louise Clover, in 1883.

Louise Kehrer Boldt and her children, George Jr. (1879-1958) and Louise Clover (1883-1963), later Mrs. Alfred Graham Miles.. The cute little dog's name is unknown.

Source: Unknown

George had a knack for the hotel business and Louise loved it as well. She worked side-by-side with George in making his hotels as posh and customer friendly as possible. She had a hand in the decor, placing fresh cut flowers in each of the customer's rooms and made sure the linens were freshly laundered for the dining areas as well. Together, George and Louise demanded a new standard for hotels in the world, by which many still stand by today.

George had a little secret. He knew that if he catered to his customers and provided a service that was unrivaled anywhere, that his hotels would do well. George intuitively knew what his customers wanted. He introduced the velvet rope for waiting to get into his upscale hotels, he made all of his male employees shave their beards to present a clean and respectable image and most importantly, he taught all of his employees that "the customer is always right". Many of the standards he put into place in his hotels are now still commonplace at hotels around the world.

George moved up very quickly in the business. He went from dishwasher to owner of the Bellevue Hotel (which later became the Stratford-Bellevue and then the Park Hyatt) with a little help from prominent members of the Philadelphia Club assisting the couple. He went on to become proprietor of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

Bellevue-Stratford Hotel - Philadelphia

Source: Wikipedia Commons

Fate played a hand in George's business success when Mr. and Mrs. John Jacob Astor checked into his Bellevue hotel one day and learned first-hand the skills and business acumen of George. Mr. Astor financed the Waldorf Astoria, which was the largest hotel in the world at that time. After establishing a relationship with George, Aster made him its proprietor and its success made George a multi-millionaire.

William Waldorf Astor, cousin to John Jacob Astor built a competing hotel, the Waldorf Hotel (1890-93). George was the proprietor of the Waldorf and the Astoria and mediated between the cousins. He leased the Astoria himself and then merged the two hotels under his own management and called it the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. The Empire State Building now stands at that original site at 34th Street and 5th Avenue.

The Waldorf Astoria Hotel c.1893

Source: Unknown

In the summer of 1895, while on summer vacation on Wellesley Island, George and Louise became interested in the island across from Wellesley. So George bought the island for his wife for $1.00 and proceeding to build her an island of dreams for his "beautiful princess".

Hart Island was owned by Elizer Hart, a newspaper man and New York Senator. During the more than 20 years Hart owned the island, he received many bids to purchase the land, but refused them all. He loved the island and spent many summers there and much money clearing the land to build his 80 room cottage. After he died, his widow accepted an offer from Edward Dewey of New York City. Ten days later, the property was transferred to Louise Augusta Boldt, leading to speculation that Dewey had purchased it for the Boldt family.

Thousand Islands, New York

Source: Unknown

In 1899, George commissioned the finest artisans and craftsmen to build Louise a monument of his love for her. He modeling the castle after Rhineland Castle in Germany. The island was reshaped using sea walls to resemble the shape of a heart, and the same symbol was found throughout the structures on the island, as well as in the gardens, symbolizing his love for her. In fact, he had planned to present his wife the castle on Valentine's Day (which was Louise's 42nd birthday) in 1904.

Rhineland Castle - Germany
Source: VacationHomes.net

Boldt poured over $2.5 million into the island. Eleven buildings were being erected by over 300 men being paid just $1.50 an hour and working 9-10 hour days. All of the best artisans were brought over to the island to build the six-story, 120-room stone castle complete with tunnels, electric power, gardens, a yacht house, pool and more.

Boldt Castle under construction

Source: Unknown

Boldt tore down the Hart's cottage and began building Boldt Castle. He added a lagoon and changed the spelling from "Hart Island", named after the previous owner, to "Heart Island", which remains today.

George owned the stone quarries that supplied the stone and the sand pits that supplied the sand which was mixed to hold the stones together. Massive granite blocks were cut with such precision that no alterations had to be made once they were delivered to the island from another island down the river (Oak Island, 10 miles away).

Alster Tower

Source: Boldt Castle Site

Alster Tower was the first structure that was built on the island. George and his family lived in this Tower for four consecutive summers while construction on the other buildings took place. The Tower housed the "Shell Room", which had a shell-shaped ceiling and was designed for a dance hall. The basement housed a billards room, a library, a cafe, a kitchen and bedrooms.

Boldt Castle Arch

Source: Unknown

George designed this arch to be the formal greeting area for guests and family. Modeled after Roman architecture, George had planned to extend columns all the way up the walkway and cover the entire walkway.

Boldt Castle Yacht House

Source: Wikipedia Commons

The Boldt Yacht House is located on Wellesley Island and can be seen from Hart Island's north side. It was built to house the family's three yachts and houseboat. A shop for building racing launches was incorporated, as well as quarters for the crew and maintenance staff. It is now a museum and visitors can see the boats that were actually used by the Boldt family.

Tragedy Strikes

In January of 1904, Louise suddenly died of heart failure. Is is said that she had suffered from heart problems for quite some time. She was only 41 years old. The entire island, which was built for Louise, now had no recipient. George's heart was broken and he immediately halted work on the island. A telegram was sent to the island and the entire team of 300 workers, artisans and craftsmen were instructed to drop their hammers and go home immediately.

George never set foot on the island again.

George did not want to continue construction. In fact, he didn't want to do anything with the island. After his death, it was sold it to Edward Noble, owner of the Beechnut Fruit Company and inventory of the Lifesaver candy. He bought the castle in the 1920's. Nobel's foundation ran the island as an unimproved tourist attraction for more than 50 years. Visitors were allowed to roam free on the island and unfortunately, vandalism and graffiti was rampant. The castle continued to decay under the winter conditions of ice and snow.

In 1977 the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property and chose to finish and refurbish all the structures on the island. Millions of dollars have been poured into Heart Island and it is now open to visitors May through November each year.

George C. Boldt

1851 - 1916

Source: Library of Congress, Bain News Service Collection

After Louise's death, Boldt moved back to New York and remained active in hotel management. He missed Louise until the day he died on December 5, 1916. Sadly, he died alone in his room at the Waldorf-Astoria. George was 65 years old.

Boldt's granddaughter, Clover Boldt Baird (now deceased), told the story that her grandfather once forbid her to mention to Paul Malo for his book, "Boldt Castle: In Search of the Lost History".

Clover says, "One theory is she died of an overdose of diet pills. She was trying to be right for the job, so to speak, of being hostess with the "mostest", Baird said.

"Of course, there`s always the story that she fell in love with a younger staff employee and the pair vanished into Germany", Baird said, then added, "That's just sheer gossip."

Some more facts about George Boldt and his businesses;

George is credited with popularizing Thousand Island dressing at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, where he instructed the waiters to include it on the menu. The hotel also served another popular dish, called the Waldorf Salad.

Toward the end of George's life, he commissioned Architect Francis T. Underhill to build him a Swiss-chalet style mansion called "La Manzanita" in Montecito, Santa Barbara.

Boldt Castle

Source: Unknown

Reception Room Boldt Castle

Boldt Castle Site

Boldt Castle Entry Foyer

Source: Boldt Castle Site

Boldt Castle Library

Source: Boldt Castle Site

Boldt Castle Unfinished Pool

Source: Boldt Castle Site

Heart Island shrouded in a romantic fog

Source: Thousand Islands Life

Aerial View of Boldt Castle

Source: Wikipedia Commons

Boldt Castle at Night

Source: Wikipedia Commons

George and Louise Boldt

George and Louise were married for 26 years

Ghosts

There are rumors that many locals and tourists have seen Louise Boldt on Hart Island. They claim that they have seen a lady in white walking along the waters by the boathouse and lights going on and off inside the castle when it is closed.

Official Site: Boldt Castle

Boldt Castle at Night

Source: Don Nieman Photography

Have a wonderful week!

Becky

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height

My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight

For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.

I love thee to the level of every day's

Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

I love with a passion put to use

In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.

I love thee with a love I seemed to lose

With my lost saints, I love thee with the breath,

Smiles, tears, of all my life! and, if God choose,

I shall but love thee better after death.

~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

2013 Designers of the Hampton Designer Showhouse

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Wed, 7 Aug 2013 23:45:00 -0700

Have you seen the 2013 Hampton's Designer Showhouse yet? It's magnificent! Merida Meridian's blog has a sneak-peak here.

While I was looking into the designers that each had a place in the Showhouse this year, I came across some absolutely beautiful work. It's no wonder they were each chosen to be part of the Showhouse.

The first company is Bryant Keller Interiors. Their portfolio is magnificent.

This first photo from Bryant Keller is a hallway showing a beautiful linen covered wall on the lower-level. It is hard to determine if the scene on the wall is painted or a wall-covering, but coupled with the textured wall below it is classic.

The layout of this bedroom is simple, yet nicely arranged. Rather than choose a large rectangular or square rug to cover the entire space, the designer chose to put the focus on the reading chair. The cherry blossoms in the clear vase in front of the mirror is a beautiful touch, but would probably only last a day if used in any home.

The dining room design is simple, but made elegant with the use of a bold graphic print on the wall covering and the dramatic chandelier.

The following kitchen photos are all designs from Bakes & Company, a Hampton's kitchen and interior design company. I love their use of marble countertops and grey cabinetry.

One of my favorite combinations is grey cabinetry and marble countertops. Paired with grey molding on the archway to match, this is so elegant.

Another view of the same kitchen with a farmhouse sink with large apron in marble. Oh my gosh! I'm in love!!!

The cool tones of the marble backsplash with the grey cabinetry and grey-green stove give this kitchen a very farm-house feel, but with chic sophistication.

A closer look at the stove against the dark hardwood floor showcases how the cabinetry and stove stand out.

The next four photographs are from Brady Design out of Southampton, New York. I love his use of different colored linens.

In this monochromatic living room, striped shades on the windows adds visual interest. I think I would like to see a chunkier rug with more texture or even perhaps a pattern to give the room a little more contrast.

This living room has a blend of different colored slipcovered linen seating. It also looks like the draperies are a linen blend, but as you will notice, they are a completely different linen color from the seating. With the woven shades behind them, it all blends beautifully and adds interest to the room.

Here Brady Design does it again! They are using 3 different linen colors with the seating and ottoman and coordinate it with a seagrass rug that has the grey from the ottoman and a brown tone that coordinates with the rest of the room. The colorful artwork on the wall gives the room just the punch that is needed.

This is quintessential Hampton's style. Square block pale rug, linen covered furniture with english styled arms, jacobean turned styled legs and bright pops of color.

Finally, Ken Gimes Interiors offers some more beautifully styled rooms.

The grasscloth wall covering and jute rug add great texture to this room. The bold artwork is a perfect compliment to the grasscloth color. I would have had a little bit more fun with the chandelier, but the one they used here compliments the room well.

This living room is nothing to write home about. It's nice. But, what stood out to me was the artwork. It is almost haunting and at the same time adds a contemporary touch to a classically styled room. Instead of choosing one large piece of artwork for the back wall, they chose four smaller pieces and grouped them. The colors of the artwork are a great choice for the grey armchairs and dark accent pillows. I think a tufted sofa in a darker brown linen or even black linen would have been beautiful and refreshing in this space.

This looks like a recreation room. I absolutely love their choice of prints for the room. The light background of the ottoman with the multi-colored dots is awesome! Juxtaposed against the dark grey sofa makes it stand out.

For more information on the Showhouse, go to the Hampton Designer's Showhouse HERE.

ENJOY and have a great rest of the week!

Becky

Having somewhere to go is HOME

Having someone to love is FAMILY

Having both is a BLESSING

The Charlie

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 14:28:00 -0700

This Spring my daughter and I took a road trip down to Southern California. We had to be in the L.A. area for a family function, so we made our way down to the City of Angels and stayed at an incredible little hideaway that not many people know of.

The Hotel is called The Charlie. Named for Charlie Chaplin, the hotel is located in the heart of West Hollywood (yes, you will see some strange things as you drive through the area!). The story that is given is that the buildings upon which the hotel resides were first built and established in 1924 by the Ruth Gordon family. Ruth Gordon (1896 - 1985) was an American actress and writer. She starred in many very popular movies, including Rosemary's Baby, Harold and Maude and Clint Eastwood's Every Which Way But Loose (all in her later years).

Ruth Gordon

Source: United States Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

The buildings on the property are rumoured to have been home at one time or another to Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, and Gloria Swanson, hence the name, The Charlie.

The Charlie Hotel

Source: TripAdvisor

The hotel is much more than a hotel. It is 13 different mini-homes or bungalows really. Each home is aptly named after a famous movie star, including Betty, Charlie, Clark, Dylan, Gloria, Gregory, Marilyn, Marlene, Masha (the owner's daughter), Ruth, Sasha, Steve and Valentino.

In 2002, the area was threatened by re-development and Menachem Treivush purchased the property and took on a multi-million dollar renovation. He reopened it to the public in 2008. The owner's daughter, Masha, runs the hotel and made us feel very welcome.

Marlene Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

We were lucky enough to stay in their two-story bungalow called the Valentino. Because The Charlie is home at times to movie stars (Robert Pattinson, Kristin Stewart, Charlie Sheen and others are rumored to have stayed there), we were told when we made the reservation that there was a possibility that we may not get the bungalow that we requested or that was originally planned. This left me feeling a little, well, less important, than a movie star (at least in their eyes). But, I guess that is how they do things in Hollywood. To their credit, we did get an upgrade to the Valentino, as I had a smaller bungalow booked.

There are also residents who stay at The Charlie for months at a time, so availability is accordingly limited at times.

The parking area in the court area in the middle of all the bungalows. Parking is a bit tight, so you have to be careful when exiting the property.

The Valentino Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

This is the bungalow that we stayed in, the Valentino. It was very beautifully decorated. All of the bungalows have a refined feeling and Spanish-California touches.

Source: The Charlie Hotel

Another view of the Valentino living room with the beautiful iron stair rail/wall.

This was my window seat in the master bedroom. Typical foggy California morning. It was very peaceful sitting there with a cup of coffee, bundled under the most cozy blanket I think I've ever touched and watching all the neighbors walk their dogs and take their morning runs.

Kitchen in the Valentino bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The kitchen was great. A full refrigerator allowed us to bring our leftovers home from dinner and put fresh fruit and cream in there as well for breakfast.

Master Bathroom in the Valentino Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The bathroom was very large and just my style, with it's marble countertops, black and white tiles and simplicity. The shower was very large and the bath products they had were nice.

The Charlie Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The Gloria Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The Ruth Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The Ruth Bungalow

Source: The Charlie Hotel

All of their bungalows have a definitive style and bungalow feel. When you step into the courtyard of The Charlie, you feel transported back into the 40's, when Hollywood was still regal.

The Gregory bungalow courtyard

Source: The Charlie Hotel

Courtyard of The Charlie Hotel

Source: The Charlie Hotel

The hotel has incredible amenities, including secured onsite gated parking, secure Wi-Fi access, fully-equipped kitchens, in-unit washer and dryers, flatscreen televisions, Aromae bath amenities, private patios, daily maid service and is pet-friendly (with a fee).

They had a coffee table book about Charlie Chaplin with many of his movie posters inside. I just couldn't help myself!

I would definitely stay there again and recommend it highly.

The Charlie Hotel, 819 N. Sweetzer Ave., West Hollywood, 323-988-9000; thecharliehotel.com

“Failure is unimportant. It takes courage to make a fool of yourself” ~ Charlie Chaplin

Have a wonderful week everyone!

Becky

Link Love...

Do you know about this online Book Exchange? BookMooch
Or This one? PaperBackSwap

Oprah's Maui Retreat

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 21 Jul 2013 02:16:00 -0700

Montecito is one of the most beautiful cities in California. I have been there many times and love everything about it. It is close to Santa Barbara, which has incredible shopping on State Street, the Old Mission Santa Barbara and beautiful beaches. The harbor in Santa Barbara is a great place to have lunch and walk along the harbor and watch the dolphins jump about in the ocean. If you walk all the way out to the end of the ocean wall you can climb the rocks out onto a little beach that juts out into the Santa Barbara boat harbor.

Montecito, California

The area is home to many celebrities, including one of my favorites, Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah Winfrey

I think Oprah Winfrey is incredible. I really do. She is truly blessed with all she has but she works very hard for every bit of it. She is also a generous philanthropist and has a very kind heart. I love that she has trying to bring consciousness to the world through her television channel, magazine and radio shows.

The most recent news of her philanthropy is that she has donated a total of $13 million toward the creation of an African American History Museum on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It will be the Smithsonian's 19th museum and will house items such as Harriet Tubman's shawl, Emmett Till's casket and a Jim Crow-era segregated railroad car. It is expected to open late 2015.

Oprah has another home that she purchased several years ago in Kula, Hawaii, on the island of Maui.

It is my dream to have a bungalow on the beach in Maui someday. I used to travel to Hawaii a couple times a year and Maui was my favorite. I fell in love with the land, the people and the energy of the island. From the moment you step off the plane and smell the flowers, to the moment you put your toes in the ocean, you know you are in heaven.

A perfect home in Hawaii. This perfect island farmhouse is complete with beautiful front porches (upper and lower).

Courtesy of The Oprah Magazine

Oprah showed off her beautiful island living room in her magazine. I love the swing out doors and windows, which will allow the island breezes to flow through.

I do not know the origin of this photo, but it appears that more homes are being built on the property. It looks like the original home is on the right.

Courtesy of The Oprah Magazine

Oprah's Front Porch in Hawaii with spectacular views of the ocean.

Again, I don't know the origin of this photograph, but this looks like the original farmhouse that Oprah purchased on her Hawaiian property before the new buildings were started.

Courtesy of The Oprah Magazine

Oprah and her health advisor, Bob Greene, have been working on a huge garden as well. There are more than 100 species of fruits, vegetables and herbs growing there. One acre is producing 145 pounds of food each week and they are receiving help from a Hawaii natural resource management group called Bio-Logical Capital.

Courtesy of The Oprah Magazine

Oprah's organic farm is planning on giving back the produce to the people of Maui.

Courtesy of The Oprah Magazine

Oprah and her trainer and health adviser, Bob Greene working the gardens on Oprah's property.

Not one to sit idly by and retire in Hawaii, Oprah plans to start selling a new organics line called "Oprah's Organics" or possibly "Oprah's Harvest". I'm sure we will see make-up, produce, hair and skin care, as well as other products.

If you'd like to be Oprah's neighbor, you can purchase this beauty for just $7.9 million.

Courtesy of Maui Real Estate Net

“The three great elemental sounds in nature are the sound of rain, the sound of wind in a primeval wood, and the sound of outer ocean on a beach”

~ Henry Beston

Have a wonderful week,

Becky

Could You Live in 320 Square Feet?

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 14 Jul 2013 12:00:00 -0700

If you live in a city, you probably know that space is at a premium. Very few architects or builders know how to get a space right when it comes to small spaces. Sure, there is the "box" that most of these spaces turn into, but what about ingenious methods of flow and storage? What about aesthetics and views? What about living in a space that doesn't feel like it's 320 square feet?

That is exactly the questions that architects Scott Specht and partner Louise Harpman of the architectural firm Specht Harmon answered when they designed this Manhattan Micro Loft in New York. This space is sleek and stylish. It feels large and unassuming. It feels personal and classy. It's hard to achieve that in a small space.

This view of the kitchen and the living space beyond is the perfect vantage point to see how the space feels large. The wrap-around counter extends the kitchen into the living area and the sea colored glass backsplash and white cabinets keep the kitchen light and airy.

The kitchen features fully concealed appliances and flip-up upper storage units that enable easy access.

The only door in the entire loft is the bathroom door. The rest of the loft is without doors in order to achieve an open and free-flowing space. Notice the mirrored interior of the door, which provides a great dressing mirror and makes the bathroom feel larger.

The stairs have built-in storage and lower drawers. Without hardware, it is more seamless.

The bed is tucked under an alcove with recessed lighting. The bedroom area is cantilevered with steel cables and is grounded with the dark hardwood.

View to the top level, which leads out onto the rooftop garden. The open and airy full wall of glass windows and doors also allows much light into the space, making it feel more open and spacious.

The stairs balusters are steel cables, adding to the sleekness and modernity of the whole space.

The wrap-around counter-top from the kitchen to the living area acts as a "hearth" for the space.

A wider view of the space. The simplicity of the lines, and the dark wood against the white walls and lacquered cabinets gives it a very clean look. Notice the "wall" of balusters that go from the stairs to the ceiling. They create a safety wall, while not impinging on the openness of the space.

The main bathroom and shower is under the staircase.

A computer model of the entire space shows the garden rooftop terrace. As shown in the model, furnishings are kept to a minimum as well, to keep the space open.

This space won an award as one of the top architectural spaces for 2013 by Residential Architect.

Residential Architect's 2013 Award Winners

For more links to great information about small living spaces, check out these links.

Small Urban Apartment Decorating Ideas

10 Perfect Pieces for Small Space Living

Connect with Designers and Builders to Create Your Own Small Home

Have a wonderful week!

Becky

Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude.

~ Denis Waitley

Have a Cup of Coffee With Me

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 7 Jul 2013 18:32:00 -0700

As you may have noticed, I've been on hiatus from posting here on Harmony and Home. My passion still lies in interior design, architecture and blogging, but has been extended to online marketing as well. I have started my own online marketing consulting business, called ScribeTree, and I will be posting updates on it here as well. Keep an eye out for Scribetree.com, which will be up and running very soon.

During my hiatus, I have had many in-depth conversations with friends about life, love, integrity, respect, trust and many other very deep subjects over coffee, tea and wine. We sit in my family room around a "soft coffee table" or ottoman which I use as a coffee table and talk for hours. It has been bothering me for quite some time now that I do not have a hard coffee table to place items on. Therefore, I have been searching for the ultimate cool coffee table for my family room.

Let me set the stage. I have a large seagrass rug over dark hardwood floors. I have a brown leather loveseat and two brown patterned fabric chairs, all Ethan Allen traditional furniture (which is not my style anymore, but new furniture is in the works). They are all very comfortable, but I am tired of them all and eventually want to go more British Colonial in my home, as I love the vibe of Hawaii and the islands and everything that goes with that. Joni Webb over at the Cote de Texas blog (whom so graciously answered so many questions for me when I started blogging in 2008) also has a design aesthetic that I love.

I am looking for a coffee table that is dark wood, distressed and non-typical. Everything else is up for negotiation. I still have all of my favorite online furniture stores bookmarked and below is what I have found so far as my favorites. If you have any favorites that you'd like to mention or add, please leave a note.

I'm happy to be back! I hope you all are having an awesome summer!

Elegant Finds For Your Home Darren Coffee Table

This is my first pick. It's not very unique, but I love the juxtaposition of old and new, shiny and distressed, fancy and rugged. It's made of untouched reclaimed wood with stainless legs. This would have to be my number one pick.

Zinc Door Novel Long Coffee Table

This coffee table feels like electrical cables pulled tight. I love the industriousness of it, the hardness and the modernity of it. It is the cold against my warm wood floors and seagrass rug. Yin and yang.

Artefacto Eduardo Coffee Table

This is glass and metal, so no warm distressed feel here, but I love this table for a couple of reasons. First of all, I haven't seen it before anywhere (and believe me, I'm always looking at furniture) and second, I love the floating quality of the two non-supported corners and how it takes up less floor space and gives the feel of a floating shelf, which always works well in small spaces (which is what my family room is).

Artefacto Everest Coffee Table

Another Artefacto product (they have great stuff). This table is cool for the very virtue of its multiple levels, which in itself creates interest. This would be cool in wood too, or a mix of wood and metal.

ZinHome's Devon Trestle Coffee Table

This coffee table is another one that I absolutely love. It is similar to Restoration Hardware's Salvaged Wood Trestle Dining Table design. I'm a big R.H. fan, so anything in that wheelhouse appeals to me. The stonewashed finish is a great compliment to my dark hardwood floors and this definitely looks like something that I don't mind my kids putting their feet on.

Madison McCord Coffee Table

I can't tell from the photograph for sure, but this looks like a painted or stained coffee table and I love the step-down ladder feature on each side. I'm imaging having friends over for wine and putting different appetizers on the first step and perhaps tea lights on the lower step. I think my cat would like this table too! :o)

Thank you for allowing me into your homes again and I look forward to reconnecting with you all!

"Coffee - the favorite drink of the civilized world." ~ Thomas Jefferson

Have a wonderful day!

Becky

Product of the Week: Suzani Ceramic!!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:32:00 -0800

Just when you think things couldn’t get any cooler, Boston-based ceramicist Jill Rosenwald created this ultra-cool suzani-inspired ceramic bowl.

The piece measures 10"wide by 10.25" high and it is dishwasher safe and meant to be used all the time.

Jill has many other very cool ceramic designs at her etsy site here.

There are more products of the week in store. Stay tuned!

Becky

NKBA 2011: Design Finalists for Bathrooms

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Wed, 9 Feb 2011 09:06:00 -0800

Have you checked out the National Kitchen and Baths design finalists in the bathroom category? If not, swing on over to this link now and check them out!
There are a couple of really inspiring bathroom designs like these;

Designer Holly Rickert got it right on the money with this bathroom. River rock surrounds the free-standing tub giving this bathroom a relaxing spa feel. Coupled with the dark cabinetry and flooring, this space feels modern and timeless.

Designer Christine Salas also had a hit with this tiny, but uber-chic bathroom. Cool bathtub + cool fireplace right next to it is a winning combination for me! The color of the tile works in the room, the sconces are unassuming and perfect and the artwork right on.
But there are also a few that I just don’t get!

Designer Ellie Baker can put a bathroom together, but I am not so fond of the color scheme in here (the white tile is too stark for those warm cabinets), the bowl glass sink (are they even still in style anymore?) and that hardware on the cabinets! Sorry… this one misses the mark in my book.

Designer Lori Carroll did some things right here. The oil-rubbed bronze faucet is trendy and in style right now and the pendant lighting adds a cool vibe to the space as well, but overall, it feels very 80’s to me for some reason? I think it is the color of the floating cast stone sink as well as the corrugation tiles on the wall. She tried something unique and different with marble slabs embedded with fossils behind the sink, but again, this one misses for me as well. What’s your opinion?
Becky
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It isn’t the size of the gift that matters, it’s the size of the heart…

Super Cute Homegoods

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 6 Feb 2011 22:25:00 -0800

Soft Surroundings, which is mainly a clothing catalog, has their Spring line out. And, with it, they have featured a couple really cute home goods that I have to show you!

Fountainbleu Quilt.

From $189 to $269, this super romantic, fluffy quilt is so dreamy, I just want to plop down in it and sleep in!

The Fountainbleu Euro Shams.

dreamy.lovely.renoir-ish….. $59.00.

Marrakesh Express Quilt

From $139 to $199, this Indian-inspired quilt is very zen-like. The blues and greens are calming and the pattern is beautiful.

Haiku Garden Stool

$251.00. This garden stool/side table is so unique. I love to put different pieces into rooms. What I don’t like is cookie-cutter décor. So, when something like this comes along and screams “original!”, “beautiful!” and “unique!”… I’m all over it!

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Enjoy!

Becky

Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.

~Aristotle

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.

~ Aristotle

Extraordinary Lighting

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 21:50:00 -0800

We’re almost at the end of January. It’s the new year! Have you made changes for the better? Have you made your New Year’s resolutions? Have you lit up your life yet? No? Well, let me give you some inspiration. Let me flood your life with beauty and light!

Here are some beautiful, extraordinary lighting fixtures that are so gorgeous, so inspiring, that songs should be written about them… poems should be penned and definitely… rooms should have to be designed around them!

From Hudson Furniture Inc.

MOTHER
Design by Baran Baylar
Gloss Nickel Plated Laser Cut Rings and Chains
How gorgeous is this lighting fixture? It reminds me of Audrey Hepburn in “My Fair Lady”. So elegant and regal. This chandelier screams dinner party!

From Hudson Furniture Inc.

LYCC70BL
love you love you not
chandelier, conical
steel, swarovski crystals
This fixtur, on the other hand, reminds me of Edward Scissorhands and War of the Roses. It’s beautiful, but in a very dark, ominous way. I would love to see this chandelier lit. The tiny crystals interspersed between those gorgeous black roses probably reflect beautifully. I can see designing this fixture into a very modern-styled home, or even a retro-inspired décor. It would be fun to place it in an unexpected place as well, like a front foyer or large master bath.

From Hudson Furniture Inc.

CASW30NH
iron, clear crystals
gloss nickel finish
This wall sconce was so unusual, I had to feature it. It’s so organic and beautiful. I love the little candle holder within the wirey tangled mess of iron… all topped off with beautiful crystals of course.

From Hudson Furniture Inc.

BF150
broom
floor lamp, iron
gloss nickel
These floor lamps are so fun and so unusual! I love them! But, I do want to turn them upside down and start sweeping!

From Hudson Furniture Inc.

KIKI WALL LAMP
ludwig & larsen
Solid Walnut, Blackened Steel, Linen Shade (Brown shown, white also available)
I love this swing arm lamp! What a great mix of retro and modern, with the drum shade.

QUIN.MGX Chandelier

Part of the Within4Walls Collection since 2006

From Bathsheba Grossman for MGX by Materialise.

These extraordinary starfish shaped balls would be perfect party lighting. Group a bunch of these on your patio, throughout your pergola or strung across your lawn for a fun summer party.

Cibola Bone China Pendant Light by Dominic Bromley for Scabetti

Part of the Within4Walls Collection since 2007

i.love.these….. Part seashell, part planet, part teardrop. Gorgeous how the light infuses from behind the inner ball. Made of bone china.

Linz Wall Light

Part of the Within4Walls Collection since 2009

Sometimes simplicity is the best option. I love the travertine embedded in this chromed steel. Perfect for hallways, breezeways or covered porches.

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Have a wonderful week everyone!

Becky

In the beginning there was nothing. God said, "Let there be light!" And there was light. There was still nothing, but you could see it a whole lot better. ~Ellen DeGeneres

What is true by lamplight is not always true by sunlight. ~Joseph Joubert

When God Closes a Door….

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sun, 26 Dec 2010 23:57:00 -0800

The presents are opened, the recycling bin is full of wrapping paper, the Christmas dinner, which took hours to prepare, was eaten in minutes. The wine bottles empty, the children all playing with their new games and the cats doing what they always do…. sleeping through it all. The year is winding down and what a year it has been. For my family, it has been one of major change. Whether or not it will be a good one is yet to be seen, but we are all adjusting to our new roles, the new game, the new rules. We are all going to bed unsure of the now, but hoping to wake up to a better future.

They say when God closes a door, he opens a window. For many of us, it’s so hard to see that indeed that window is open. All we see is that the door has been shut in our faces and we are left there, stunned, not knowing what to do next.

The point, I think, is to just keep moving. Keep searching. Keep looking for what you want in life. And that… putting one foot in front of the next… is the secret to getting through life. One step at a time. One moment at a time. One breath at a time.

In keeping with this blog’s theme….. Harmony and Home…. and in loving (and living in) peaceful serene homes, here is one that I’d like to share with you.

From Boston Magazine. All photos by Eric Roth. Interior Design by Gerald Pomeroy.

A sitting room with built-in glass-fronted cabinets and complimentary artwork pull this room together in a beautiful way.

Farrow & Ball wallpaper and simple artwork make this entryway seem casual, even though the furniture is formal.

This Gustavian case clock is perfectly showcased against the wall mural.

This beautiful antique Biedermeier wood table and Austrian chairs are from the same period, centered under a gilt lantern chandelier.

The beautiful cabinetry and mirror-on-mirror in this master bathroom create a very elegant atmosphere.

The master bedroom features a mirrored side table and custom headboard.

In the entry, a sunburst mirror is positioned on an antiqued mirror and x-frame chairs standout amongst the multi-colored marble tile.

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If I have just one aim,
And if that aim is to be myself,
Then I am bound to discover joy,
True joy, eternal joy.

If you can create harmony
In your own life,
This harmony will enter
Into the vast world.

The transformation of life
Begins with a soulful smile
Of the heart.

At the dawn of each day,
Let us make our hopes
And promises
As sincere and powerful
As possible.

~ Sri Chinmoy

Happy New Year Everyone!

Blessings of Good Health, Prosperity and Endless Love!

Becky

Holiday Design Gift Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:25:00 -0800

With Christmas almost upon us, I thought I would write a post with some last minute Christmas gift ideas that pertain to design… for you afficionados out there. :)

So without further adieu…

HGTV’s Home Design and Remodeling Suite Software. I have this program and haven’t had the chance to really get in there and use it, but upon quick perusal and based on the reviews, it looks like a pretty decent software package. For those of you out there who would like to design, but don’t have the training, this is a fun little tool to work with. You can remodel your whole home or just change the colors of a room. The possibilities are endless.

Restoration Hardware's Heathered Stripe Throw

At just $59.00, this beautiful throw will keep you warm on the sofa or look good thrown over the corner of your arm chair. It’s oversized at 50” x 70” and the blankets from Restoration Hardware are just luxurious. I bought a chenille throw for my father a couple years ago and the weight of it and quality were impeccable.

Guinevere Bed from Horchow

Heavy gage steel in a beautifully scrolled romantic design, complete with four posts. Love. $799.00 for a Queen.

Embossed Faux Leather Journal from Leather Journals.net. Every good designer needs to record all his/her transactions. Make sure you have know where you are going with your business!

'>'>How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Redesign, Redecorating, and Home Staging Business: With Companion CD-ROM. For all of you out there that want to start up a design business, this is a good starting point. Practical tips and wisdom from those in the industry to help you get started.

May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace,
The gladness of Christmas give you hope,
The warmth of Christmas grant you love.
~Author Unknown

Becky

Peaceful Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:32:00 -0800

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I did. I spent the day with my children and reflected on what is really important in life. The love you give and the love you receive. I am thankful for so many friends and of course, my family and especially my children. I’m thankful to be moving on in life in baby steps and experiencing new things, making new goals, meeting new people (including some of you!), and ridding my life of the negative. As the year comes to a close, I am reflecting on the last year and what lessons I should learn from it. I am looking to the future and holding my dreams and hopes in front of me. This past year has been life-changing for me and I have struggled greatly (as has my blog…lol…), but I am looking forward to closing this year with grace and dignity and starting 2011 with hope and wonder. I wish you all blessings for a wonderful holiday season and may you be sharing it with the ones you love.

“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”
~ Maria Robinson

Better Homes and Gardens
“We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.”
~Sam Keen

Some people come into our lives,
Leave footprints in our hearts,
And we are never ever the same.
- Unknown

“The most important things in life aren’t things.”
~Anthony J. DeAngelo

“Perhaps our eyes need to be washed by our tears once in awhile, so that we can see Life with a clearer view again.”

“Sometimes the most urgent thing you can possibly do is take a complete rest.”
~Ashleigh Brilliant
“Only a life lived for others is a life worth while.”
~Albert Einstein

“Sometimes it’s the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.”
~Keri Russell

Suzanne Kasler kitchen
“Only a life lived for others is a life worth while.”
~Albert Einstein

“I don’t want to live. I want to love first, and live incidentally.”

“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children…to leave the world a better place…to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

“This is my wish for you; Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth, Love to complete your life.”
Becky

Farmhouse Sink Love

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 22:46:00 -0800

Everyone knows what they are and many people have pined for one when they first came back into popularity on the design front. Farmhouse sinks are gorgeous to look at, create a definite style in the kitchen and are oftentimes a statement piece.
Farmhouse sinks, also called apron-front, offer wide basins and exposed aprons. They are offered in lots of different materials and can be pricey. They require either a tile-in or undermount installation, which doesn’t work with some countertop materials, such as laminate. A lot of farmhouse sinks are also single-basin, which some customers don’t like.
I’ve gathered some interesting farmhouse sinks for your viewing enjoyment.

Stain Steel Mosaic Kitchen Sink from Linkasink . A gorgeous sink, don’t you think?

This weathered copper beauty also from Linkasink is also available in dark bronze here.

Natural Front Farmhouse Sink from Stone Forest. This would look great in a log cabin.
Some things to consider when purchasing a sink;

How many bowls do you need?
Is the sink deep enough for your pots?
Do you need a prep sink?
What is the care and maintenance of the material?
Size, Shape, Material.. does it go with your decor/cabinets/appliances?
Does it work with your faucets?
Cost

Shaws Original Casement Edge Front 1 1/2 Bowl Fireclay Apron Kitchen Sink here. Farmhouse sinks are usually single basin, so this double basin sink might be a good option for some.

The MHX710-36 from Franke Sinks. Stainless Steel beauty. Stainless steel can be high-maintenance though.

For Town by Michael S. Smith for Kallista can be found here. Made of solid marble, this is one of my favorites. Timeless and beautiful in any setting.
Have a great week everyone!
Becky
Life is a flow. It cannot stop, speed up, slow down or reverse. Things constantly move on. Because that is evolution. It is only by the leaving of one room that we can enter the next. And if we do not progress, we cannot grow. And if we do not grow we have no purpose. So we must accept, and make the best.

The San Francisco Fall Antiques Show

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 09:05:00 -0700

It’s here again! The fabulous, oldest continuously operating international antiques show on the West Coast. Taking place this weekend at the Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center, the show is featuring Chinoiserie this year!

Dates/Hours

2010 Preview Party Benefit Gala
Wednesday, October 27, 2010, 7 to 9 p.m.
2010 Show

October 28 to October 31, 2010
Thursday - Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Take a look at the who is going to be showing this year;

2010 Exhibitors

Wallpaper on canvas, handpainted with chinoiserie ornaments, from the museum Geelvinck-Hinlopen Huis.

Gracie Handpainted Wallpaper

If you’ve read my blog before, you know I’m a big fan of hand-painted Chinoiserie wallpaper. Gracie is one of the premiere companies manufacturing these beautiful pieces of art. Michael Smith, my favorite designer, uses Gracie in many of his designs.

If you’d like to be inspired by Chinoiserie design, check out the lecture series;

Chinoiserie and Japonisme in European Ceramics
Christina Prescott Walker
Thursday, October 28, 11:00 a.m.

China and World Fashion Today
John S. Major
Thursday, October 28, 2:30 p.m

Chinoiserie at Court
Her Royal Highness Princess Michael of Kent
Friday, October 29, 11:00 a.m.

Chinoiserie in Britain, 1650-1820
David Beevers
Friday, October 29, 2:30 p.m.

Billy Baldwin: America's King Cotton Decorator
Adam Lewis
Saturday, October 30, 11:00 a.m.

Bringing the Past to Present and Beyond
Bunny Williams
Saturday, October 30, 2:30 p.m.

For a more comprehensive, wonderful post on the Antiques Show, check out Diane Dorrans Saeks blog, The Style Saloniste.

Hope to see you there!

Becky

If it is peace you want, seek to change yourself,
not other people. It is easier to protect your
feet with slippers than to carpet the whole of the earth.
- Anthony de Mello

Diane von Furstenberg does Claridge’s of London

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 00:15:00 -0700

Style maven Diane von Furstenberg has collaborated with Claridge’s of London to design a series of room and suites for the London hotel. Her goal for the room designs was “to respect the architecture and formality of the grand hotel room, but at the same time make it relevant to today’s life.” Of course, Diane’s “relevant to today’s life”, might be a bit different to our “relevancy”… but what I like about her, is that she is not afraid of color or pattern. Much like Kelly Wearstler, Diane is not inhibited by either. And, she has an eye for putting together these designs.

While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, her room designs are at the very least fun. Enjoy!

Here are a few snaps of the common areas…

Claridge’s Front Hall

Claridge’s Foyer

Gordon Ramsey’s Restaurant at Claridge’s. I love the light fixtures. Coupled with those purple chairs, it creates a warmth in the dining room.

Claridge’s Foyer

Claridge’s Entrance

Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic Ikat pattern in raspberry and chocolate dominates the dual aspect sitting-room, on a beautiful rug inset into a herring-bone patterned hardwood floor and on the 2 back-to-back sofas. The artwork in this suite is from von Furstenberg’s own private collection, from her travels around Europe, Africa and Asia.

The master bedroom has a soft color scheme, a pop-up 37 inch plasma TV at the foot of the bed and a beautiful canopied bed.

This bedroom takes its cue from the fashion world with attractive China Club curtains, bold patterns – including an armchair in von Furstenberg’s China Club design.

A more organic pattern, but just as effective. Bring on the DVF!!!

The design living room in this suite uses black and white as a base and then pops the room with that delicious deep purple and dark lime green.

Striking marble floors are the highlight in this master suite bathroom.

Classic elegance.

The décor is complemented by striking lighting in Murano glass.

Lalique glass sculptures throughout.

Mayfair Suite. More subdued, but nonetheless classic.

Linley Couture Suite. Art deco touches are an interesting choice compared to the other suites. Complete with mirror above the headboard. :)

Linley Classic Suite. I love the clean, classic look of this suite.

Linley Couture Suite. More art deco design.

Linley Suite.

Traditional Linley Couture Suite

Art Deco Linley Couture Suite

Piano Suite. The marble vanities are striking, but probably not an installation that a current designer would use.

Piano Suite Living Room. Feels presidential, no?

Royal Suite

Davies Penthouse. Beautiful doors.

The Davies Penthouse. Yes, please.

The Davies Penthouse

The Brook Penthouse

The Brook Penthouse. Wish I could see the view! I’m sure it’s striking.

The Brook Penthouse

And now, for their “regular” rooms :)….

Superior Queen Bedded Room

Superior King Bedded Room

Deluxe King Bedded Room

DVF Studio

Check it out for yourself at Claridges of London. And if you go… take me! :)

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Hope guides me. It is what gets me through the day and especially the night.

(Quote from “A Knight’s Tale)

Leona Helmsley’s $125 Million Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Thu, 7 Oct 2010 00:02:00 -0700

Dubbed the “Queen of Mean” and notorious for not paying her taxes and going to jail for same, Leona Helmsley, or rather the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, has sold the “Dunnellen Hall” estate for $35 million, a $90 million dollar reduction from the original asking price of $125 million. The Helmsleys bought Dunnellen Hall in 1983 for $9 million (paying an extra $2 million for the furniture) and later picked up another 14 acres bringing the total to 40 acres. The home apparently is in a major state of disrepair and will cost millions to fix. The property taxes are rumored to be $183,000 a year.

All photos by Stephen Rossi Photography, Norwalk, CT

David Ogilvy & Associates currently has the listing on their website, where you can read, with more detail, about this palatial estate. I’m going to hit some of the highlights for you! I don’t know if this home has been occupied for years, but the decor definitely reads dated, as you will see below… (let’s have a little fun with this, shall we?)…

Located in The Great Estates in Greenwich, Connecticut, the main residence is 22,000 square feet, the property 40 acres, and the estate designed by Architect William Tubby.

Magnificent 70-foot marble reflecting pool with a three-tier fountain.

The grounds include an incredible koi pond with its own waterfall.

The entrance is very unassuming and not very impressive for such a massive estate! Topped with a limestone pediment in the Roman style. Perhaps this is a secondary entrance?

This looks to be a secondary hallway off of the entrance hall. The marble floors, ornate console table and hanging tapestry warm up this space nicely. What is on the top of this console table though? Inlaid marble? A glass insert with something underneath? Hmmmm….

Part of the entrance hall. I love the shadows on the wall from the iron doors. The urn base table looks a little cheesy though. And, I would have put the flower arrangement in a differently shaped vase… one that didn’t mimic the table base.

Entrance hall with a cove ceiling and the spectacular cross arched center hall with a Travertine marble floor, limestone walls running the 86-foot length and a double-height plaster tracery ceiling.

From another view.

The major stairway divides into two from the mid-level landing. They need some artwork on the walls!

The 45-foot living room with a massive carved stone fireplace with Ionic columns has the same tracery ceiling, gorgeous wide-board teak floors (covered mostly with the massive area rug). Ok…. Can we talk about that green coffee table for a minute though? I know the designer was going for a punch of color, but really?

The library has a 15th century fireplace mantel, paneling throughout and another lovely tapestry. What is your take on tapestries? Do they work for the typical homeowner? Leona was definitely NOT your typical homeowner!

Another view of the library.

Hallway reminds me of the cathedral ceilings in Europe. Beautiful architecture. I love the view of the fireplace in the far room.

Gorgeous landscape lighting.

The paneled dining room has a fireplace, a bay window and a tracery ceiling. Balloon shades and chair fabric could be updated. Ok, the chairs too!

Adjoining the dining room is a smaller, more intimate dining room. Another tapestry hangs in the room. This one not so nice I think.

This sitting room needs some definite updating. The emerald green walls with gold trim is very 80’s. Even the bay window and chandelier harken back to that decade. Do I spy fake topiaries in those urns in the background?

The family room has a lovely fireplace, coffered ceiling, and rather loud red velvet sofas that are competing for attention with that rug!

Where did they go wrong in this room? Let us count the ways…. One, the rug… Two, the gold tiger print chairs… Three, the sill-length drapes… Four, the lion artwork on the back wall…. Five…. Six…. Seven…. oh my…..

The 52 foot indoor pool/winter garden has marble floors, areas for sitting and a changing room and bathroom.

The lower level has a wine cellar. Nice, but could use a little more personality and chairs that are scaled more properly for the room.

Basement entrance to the wine cellar. If they were going for “dungeon decor”… they succeeded! Very drab and feels more like going through a coal mine with that ceiling all the way down the hallway.

Probably the most disappointing space of the entire estate… the kitchen. The burled wood cabinets are hideous… even back when this estate was built!

Now you get to why it sold for $35 million! Look at this property!

Beautiful landscaping.

The 75-foot outdoor swimming pool has a terrace and a cabana with a kitchen, and it adjoins the tennis court.

Beautiful estate… needing a major renovation!

All photos Stephen Rossi Photography, Norwalk, CT

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People keep repeating that the main things are love and compassion. Certainly love and compassion are the main things, but it takes knowledge to make love and compassion fruitful. ... It takes just a second to say 'love'. But to acquire knowledge for the well-being and blessing of humanity requires an eternity.

And could you keep your heart in wonder at the daily miracles of your life,
your pain would not seem less wondrous than your joy.

A Little Visit to Bouf Brings Surprising Finds!

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:53:00 -0700

It’s been awhile since I’ve visited Bouf… but I am on their email list, so I am regularly receiving updates from them. The problem is, I usually don’t have time to look! Today I stopped by to see what was new and I was pleasantly surprised. I think you may be too!

If you are looking for accessories or other items for a home interior project, this might just be the place to find something original. And original is what I am always striving for in my designs. Hard to find in today’s copycat world.

This first find, a Petits Oiseauxs Mirror, is so charming that I instantly fell in love with it. Two little brass birds are perched on its antiqued brass frame, that has distressed, antiqued mirror glass encased.

A Gold Retro Love Sign that is something that you can see everywhere probably, but I love how this one is distressed a bit in it’s finish.

These Boho Blanc Plaster Mirrors are just the ticket when you want to create a bit of romance in a space. The different sizes and shapes are gorgeous.

And speaking of mirrors… I thought these Aviator by Cocktail Designers - Narcisse Mirrors were ingenious! If you have a fun spot to place them, they are definitely the unexpected. I think these would be very cool in a teenagers room.

These Dandelion Blowing Wall Stickers are so creative and whimsical. Great for a young couple in their entrance way or family room.

This Burlesque Chair is for those times that you just want a little something fancy in the corner of your boudoir… or perhaps are thinking about something a little naughtier? :)

This Auro light fixture is so translucent it is almost ghostly. And, I love it!

These Utzon Tivoli Pendant Lights are the perfect blend of industrial, loft and chic. Perfect for so many spaces.

And finally, if you appreciate a nod back to the good ol’ days and want a little retro in your space, try this Dreyfuss 500 Chrome Telephone. Functions just like a regular phone… but you get a little style to go along with it!

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You know nothing about Hope, that immortal, delicious maiden forever courted forever propitious, whom fools have called deceitful, as if it were Hope that carried the cup of disappointment, whereas it is her deadly enemy, Certainty, whom she only escapes by transformation.

GEORGE ELIOT, Daniel Deronda

Do you Olioboard?

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 22:57:00 -0700

If you are used to Polyvore, you will be an expert at Olioboard. A mood board creator, where you drag and drop objects, Olioboard is loads of fun. I just discovered it today and spent WAY too much time creating the following mood boards. Just when I had a day where I could catch up with a few things… bam… gone and all I have to show for it is these cool mood boards. :) Hope you like!

My California Inspiration board…

My Modern/Asian Twist board…

and finally…

My Loft Space board. Olioboard has all of these cool room sets that you can start with and then start creating your rooms. Very fun!

Go to Olioboard to create your own mood boards. Have fun… but don’t go to their websites if you have work to get done first!!! :)

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How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.
Wayne Dyer

I cannot always control what goes on outside. But I can always control what goes on inside.
Wayne Dyer

The Redbury @ Hollywood and Vine

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Thu, 9 Sep 2010 09:09:00 -0700

Once upon a time in a land far, far away…. oh… wait… that’s fairytale land. Well, this comes pretty close. Welcome to The Redbury @ Hollywood and Vine. Hollywood’s hottest new place to lay your head, dine and hang out. Created by Sam Nazarian, of luxe hospitality group SBE, and styled by celeb image maker Matthew Rolston, this new hotel is sure to excite a few with it’s unique vibe of old style meets chic wanderlust.

The hotel offers 57 Flats consisting of 11 Highland Flats, 19 Sunset Flats, 11 Vine Flats, 12 Hollywood Premiere Flats, and 4 Redbury Signature Flats. They offer 750 – 1020 square feet of living space, 300 thread count Italian linen and terry, plush pillow top mattress, your own in-unit washer and dryer, old-world art collection featuring hand-drawn illustrations and paintings, vintage rock and roll posters, persian rugs and private patios or balconies.

Who would not love the incredible styling of this room, with it’s collection of old-world photos, suzani throws on the beds and ikat prints throughout. With a mix of modern and traditional furniture and it’s bold pop of color, this room is warm, inviting and reminds me of home, more than a hotel. Extend my stay…. please!

Though the styling is traditional, the amenities are not. Guests will not be without in one of these flats. Amenities include; Hi-speed WIFI network, 24 hour in-flat dining service from Executive Chef Daniel Elmaleh, a fully-stocked bar, flat-screened LCD TV’s, a vinyl collection and record player (how cool is that?). You can even request hypo-allergenic bedding and custom pet amenities.

“It feels more like borrowing a friend’s cool apartment than staying in a hotel.”

The English roll-arm sofa, vintage side tables, persian rugs and paisley prints are such a great blend of traditional style. They are perfectly matched with more contemporary pieces, like the wood block tables.

Bold prints like this bring the Redbury alive. A bit of nostalgia is a very welcoming characteristic for a hotel in today’s world of ultra-sleek, contemporary, often cold hotels.

The European-styled kitchen with gas burners means you don’t have to eat out for every meal. Relax in a home atmosphere, kick back with your orange juice and home-made eggs in the morning and laze around in your comfortable living space or order in-flat yoga or pilates instruction until you are ready to go out and hit the sites of Hollywood.

This oversized walk-in rain shower is enough to make me want to book an extra day or two. The floor to ceiling tile is ultra-chic and sleek and modern. It’s contemporary, yet glamorous. They could’ve designed a more traditional bathroom in these flats, complete with claw-foot tubs, but I think they got it right with this present-day version of Hollywood.

Streetscape from Hollywood and Vine.

“I love having the best of Hollywood just outside my front door.”

“I wish I was staying at The Redbury”….

Los Angeles… Hollywood baby!

Cleo, is Redbury’s signature restaurant, featuring Executive Chef Daniel Elmaleh. They serve lunch, dinner and late-night fare from noon to midnight daily. Offering plates such as seasonal grilled Pinchos, small plates and salads, home Laffa flatbreads and vegetarian items, this restaurant is ready to impress.

Elmaleh also offers 24 hour in-flat dining service, including picnic baskets and grocery delivery.

“It’s not stuffy, it’s not intellectual, it’s just good food.”

Sam Nazarian, sbe Founder and CEO, comes from such hits as Shelter nightclub, SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, Sahara Hotel & Casino in Vegas and the Ritz Plaza in Miami’s South Beach.

Sam thought of everything. For the business professional who wants to stay for the touch of home but needs professional amenities…. ipads, laptops, printers and fax machines are available upon request. Full shipping and messenger services, as well as full printing services are also provided.

The various floor plans available for the flats. I’ll take “C”!

This was Matthew Rolston’s first foray into hospitality design. His vision was to create a “unique real-world environment for a style-focused audience” and I think he hit the nail on the head. Bravo! For Matthew’s work, go here.

For more information, visit The Redbury @ Hollywood and Vine here.

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Remember that all things which happen

To you are raw materials

Endlessly fertile

Endlessly yielding of thoughts that could change

Your life and go on doing forever…

So fear not, my friend.

The darkness is gentler than you think.

-Nigerian poet Ben Okri

Office Space

noreply@blogger.com (Rebecca Corvese) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:34:00 -0700

Home offices should be a place unlike any other space in your home. The office should speak to your personal style, but it should also offer order, the opportunity for productivity and the feeling of calm (or excitement?) so that work can be accomplished. There should be ample storage and counter space, good lighting and proper seating.

What makes an office special to you? Is it the design of the space? Is it the fact that it is away from the rest of your family and a place where you can get work done? Is it the wall color? Below are some examples of some great office spaces that, for one reason or another, made me chose them for this post.

Let me know if any of them are on your favorites list and what you have done to make your office special!

California Home and Design Magazine, Designer Laura Rombauer, Photographer Mathew Millman.

This office space for multiple people has two features in it that I think are critical… a hard floor and lots of counter space. The color scheme of lime and tangerine give this space life. The only thing missing for me is natural lighting.

California Home and Design Magazine, Designer Barbara Scavullo, Photographer Mathew Millman.

You have to like wood to like this office design! This cozy space, even though it is wall to wall (and desk!) wood, is tempered by wonderful task and recessed lighting, as well as light accents brought in with the guest sofa, the artwork and the chair seat.

California Home and Design Magazine, Designer Steven Volpe, Photographer Mathew Millman.

More on the traditional side, this office offers elegance with it’s skirted sofa, bergere chairs and floor to ceiling drapery. This was most definitely designed for a woman in mind. I love the touch of pink in the abstract painting to coordinate with the sofa.

California Home and Design Magazine, Designer Georgina Rice, Photographer David
Duncan Livingston

Tucked into the smallest niche, this desk found a place to be an office. Boudoir chair and balloon drapery ramp up the romance!

California Home and Design Magazine, Designer Jay Jeffers, Photographer Mathew Millman.

What a fun space with the concrete walls juxtaposed with the leopard print chairs! If you are going to go original, then go all the way!

Architectural Digest, Designer Juan Pablo Molyneux.

There is a lot going on in this office space, but that is pretty indicative of Molyneux’s style. He carries the design over the top with the busy rug, the blue leopard print fabric on the chair and that embellished astrology ceiling!

Designer Thomas Pheasant

One of my favorite designers, Pheasant keeps things neutral in this office space when he could have easily designed in much more color to add to the blond wood. Clean lines and simplicity give this space elegance and refinement.

Live while you are alive…

Learn to be what you are in the seed of your spirit

Learn to free yourself from all things that have molded you

And which limit your secret and undiscovered road…

Never forget that love

Requires that you be

The greatest person you are capable of being,

Self-generating and strong and gentle-

Your own hero and star…

Be grateful for life as you live it,

And may a wonderful light

Always guide you along the unfolding road.