My Domicile Style

Pickled Apricots

2010-03-10T09:48:00.001-06:00

The downside of buying a huge bag of apricots from Costco? Having 3 lbs. of dried apricots sitting in your pantry. The upside of having such a large bag? You have more than enough to make this sweet-tart condiment. They suggest serving with Pork Rillettes and whisky based cocktails, such as an old-fashioned. Cooking Lessons From Bar Chefs has some mouth-watering ideas from chefs short on space.

For the record, here is where the practical side of me steps in. The condiment – easy recipe, low-fat, therefore an easy choice. The rillettes, and the thought of using a quart of rendered pork fat, gives me reason enough to skip that recipe. But I wonder if I could use olive oil (we did for tuna confit), or just slow-cook the meat until really tender and not worry about it being pate-like. Or, wait and make this for a party, and then don’t feel so guilty about the wanton decadence. I made Gale Gand’s breakfast strata the other day for a party using full-fat ingredients and it was wonderful! And I only felt a tiny bit guilty.

ACTIVE: 15 MIN
TOTAL TIME: 40 MIN Plus overnight pickling
SERVINGS: Makes about 3 cups

Make-Ahead

Ingredients

3/4 cup white wine vinegar
3/4 cup water
3 tablespoons turbinado sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
2 cups dried apricots (1 pound)
1/4 cup dark raisins
1 bay leaf

Directions

In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar and mustard seeds and bring to a boil to dissolve the sugar. In a heatproof bowl or jar, cover the apricots, raisins and bay leaf with the hot brine. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate overnight or for up to 1 month. Just before serving, coarsely chop the apricots.

Recipe by Sam Filloramo and Oliver Strand

5 Keys to an Organized Workspace

2010-03-09T09:38:00.001-06:00

I said I would share some tips from The Container Store about how to keep your workspace organized. I am currently trying to put these tips to use in all areas of my house!

The average person wastes anywhere from 55 to 90 minutes a day (according to my research) searching for things. Getting organized can help you accomplish more in a single day!

Compartmentalize.

Since a significant amount of time is spent sitting behind a desk or in front of a computer, design your work area so that there's a place for everything and that the telephone, note pads, pens, pencils and appointment book are at your fingertips. Place additional resources – but only those that are essential – within easy reach. This will minimize movement and allow you to be more productive.

I love this Stacking Desktop System, available in frosted or smoke, and in 3 different widths for any size desk.

De-clutterize.

To prevent unnecessary clutter – and wasted time – limit the amount of items on your desk. Enter deadlines and notes directly into your PDA device, calendar or Filofax. This will prevent little scraps of paper from piling up on your desk.

Have a centralized location for calendars and message boards. Keep one erasable calendar for the current month, and one for the next month. Use colored pens for each family member. Once a day, update your calendar from your PDA or Filofax.

Categorize.

Categorize files into two categories: active and inactive. Keep active files accessible (on your desk, in a rolling file cart or in a filing cabinet) and store inactive files in a labeled storage box. This will reduce time spent rummaging through a huge stack of files that may not be current.

The Brocade Desktop File is an example of how to keep active files within reach on your desktop.

Utilize.

Don't forget to utilize the often-wasted space available behind the door or on the wall over your desk. Using products such as wall-mounted grids or over-the-door hanging storage racks to hold desk accessories, magazines, CDs or videotapes will truly optimize limited workspace.

Translucent Cascading Letter File Tote

elfa Sycamore Office Solution

Minimize.

Reading a document over and over can waste valuable time. Minimize the number of times a document is read by immediately filing, discarding or placing the items in a "to do" file. The amount of paperwork on your desk will be greatly reduced by making this a part of your daily routine.

Have one can for trash and one for recycling. Shredding scissors make quick work of small items. Synchronicity Can by Umbra.

Friday Finds: 13 DIY Projects

2010-03-06T10:53:00.001-06:00

The outpouring of creativity on the web this week has been astonishing! It almost (just almost) inspires me to try it myself!!

I was thinking about doing a stencil behind my new closet, as I really meant to paint the wall BEFORE installation. The Benjamin Moore Portico Wall Tattoo was my first choice (shown above). Thinking about a fresh green pattern (BM Cedar Green) on a white wall. However, then this week was full of wall art projects! Now I have at least three to choose from, not sure if that is good or bad.

From Hello Gorgeous, we have an Imperial Trellis Stencil How-to.

Design*Sponge featured a DIY project from Doggie Eyes using spray starch to mount images copied onto colored paper. The great thing about this idea, is that it is easy to remove when you want to change it. I could see this technique used in a children’s bedroom.

In addition, I did a post last month on “How-to Renovate Craigslist Finds” from Sunset Magazine, featuring 5 projects. Their style editor asked if I had seen the follow-up, "I Found it in My Garage?”. Thanks for the heads up Miranda, about 5 new projects! Here is a sampling.

Outdated clothing as throw pillows!

Bedside tables become a hall console.

Here is hoping you all have a great weekend. The sun in shining in Texas; I am thrilled that the gray, gloomy weather has disappeared!

Chinese Chic

2010-03-03T13:26:00.001-06:00

Most days, when I rip out tear sheets, it is because there is one thing on a page that I want to remember or refer to (this does not include images of rooms, those I keep for inspiration).

However, in this Food & Wine spread from December - Chinese Chic, I found myself wanting everything featured (especially the pagoda salt & pepper set)! This issue had some unique gift spreads, each with a great assortment of items, plus a recipe.

Click on the image above to enlarge it. To see a slideshow, with links for each item, visit here.

Photo credits: Burcu Avsar, Amazon, Anouk Jansen, Home, James! East Hampton, Fissler

Designing Moms

2010-03-02T11:07:00.000-06:00

I have been a little obsessed lately with designers who have big families. I am especially intrigued by the notion that having 5 or more children does not mean that you have to settle for a less stylish home. To me, a very large family means a different sense of style, a more relaxed type of style, as evidenced by the style of these three talented moms.

Cortney Novogratz, Sixx Design. The press loves the founders of Sixx Design, and their seven children (shown above). Cortney and Bob Novogratz are self-taught developers who take on rundown buildings and transform them into amazing spaces. They have a clean, modern sense of style showcased in their first book, Downtown Chic: Designing Your Dream Home: From Wreck to Ravishing and a TV show on Bravo this April, 9 By Design.

Anya Hindmarch. Purse designer and mom of five, Vanity Fair describes her as The Queen of Cozy Cool. Of course, we first met her on the pages of Domino (pictured below).

Hindmarch’s London living room

Anna Marie Horner. Textile designer, book author (Seams to Me: 24 New Reasons to Love Sewing) and mother of six, Anna Marie Horner is colorful and creative. She chronicles her life on her blog (not sure how she has time), and shares glimpses into her life, her work and occasionally, her home.

Drawing Room fabrics

One necessity for a big family is sharing bedrooms.

If you know of any stylish big families, let me know. I am keeping my eyes out for inspiration and ideas.

Photo credits: James Merrell, Sixx Design, Anna Marie Horner

Friday Finds: Pretty in Pink, Get Organized, Ralph Lauren Sales and Giveaways Galore!

2010-02-26T14:06:00.002-06:00

Time to play catch up for the week, as it has been a whirlwind. Fighting off a cold, carpal tunnel pain, preparing for house guests (change of plans with said house guest), adoption issues and more!

Here are happenings around the web for this week.

Pretty in Pink

If you have EVER wondered whether or not you could pull off a pink room, head to Ragland Hill Social, and view Gwen’s Week of Pink. She pulls images from everywhere (including one of my favorite rooms above from Mary McDonald) and shows you a myriad of ways to use pink in a sophisticated fashion, in tones ranging from salmon, to rose, to hot pink and fuchsia. She also has amazing images of pink desserts, I got hungry just looking at them!

And I completely missed this the other day, but Gwen featured an image from my very talented friend Katalin. We worked together a lifetime ago in NYC. Her photostream on Flickr is full of amazing pictures of her Scotties, her crafts and her pictures from abroad.

Speaking of pink, The Container Store is having their first ever Work Smart Office Sale. I will share some expert tips with you next week about how organize your office. Meanwhile, I want some of our file folders, which are heavyweight to stand up to daily use, and feature adorable patterns (hello, pink zebra)!

View Full Album

And you can download desktop backgrounds, inspired by the exclusively designed collection of Interior File Folders. Guess which background I currently have on mine? I think I will try them all.

Ralph Lauren Home

One Kings Lane has Ralph Lauren Home and Ralph Lauren Furniture sales starting today! 2/28 is your last chance to get a $10 instant credit with your free membership (to be used by 3/30).

Giveaways:

Last day to win a $50 Nest gift card from Nest Interior Design.

Enter to win an online room makeover from Doxa Home (and read all about the talented & sweet Jaime Rogers in All The Best this week). And I expect a BIG thank you if you win, as this is huge!

Become a fan of World Market on Facebook, for a chance to win a trip for two to Greece! Contest ends 2/28.

Have a great weekend, I will be cleaning, organizing and resting my wrists.

Mid-century Mania: Alexander Girard

2010-02-23T17:07:00.001-06:00

I am considering the Flora Rug Kit (shown above) for our bathroom. We have ceramic tile, but it is so cold on bare tootsies, plus, I love the vivid and colorful print of this rug.

It features leaves, birds, flowers, butterflies and more, all in master mid-century designer Alexander Girard's folk art-inspired style and vibrant palettes. Girard (1907 – 1993) is best known for his textile designs for Herman Miller, from 1952 to 1975. He created fabrics for the designs of George Nelson and Charles and Ray Eames, as the head of the fabric and textile division.

The next time we are in Santa Fe, we will have to visit the Museum of International Folk Art, to see the Girard’s collection of folk art, which numbers over 100,000 pieces. He and his wife Susan started collecting on their honeymoon in 1939. The Girard Wing at the museum houses a permanent exhibition, Multiple Visions: A Common Bond, designed and installed by Girard in 1982.

For even more Girard, Urban Outfitters has an assortment of pillows and wall art, an affordable way to add a little mid-century.

International Love Pillow

Hand and Dove Wall Art, 12x24”

And on the higher end, House Industries has an entire collection of Girard objects, including groovy fonts, puzzles, blocks and more.

Alphabet blocks, for the modern tyke.

Alexander Girard amassed a huge collection of nativities, many which are featured in the Girard wing. I have wanted a modern Nativity for a while, it is a splurge, but I love it!

Get Inspired: Michelle Nussbaumer

2010-02-22T12:46:00.000-06:00

One Kings Lane has a section on their site called Get Inspired. Full of designer bios, tips and images, it features many of the top interior designers today.

I always learn so much from the experts, and I love to share my finds with all of you. I think of myself as an “information gatherer” and my blog as a way to compile all of this information.

Today’s designer is fellow Texan, Michelle Nussbaumer, owner of Ceylon et Cie. Known for dramatic interior design, Michelle’s mantra is "More is more. Less is never more. Less is obviously less. Who wants less?"

Here are my favorite images and tips from Michelle.

Great example of how to display art.

Love the oversized blue and white vases!

The graphic wallpaper keeps the dark wood, sculpture and rugs from being too heavy.

Tips:

01 I love the drama of painted patterns on floors and ceilings. If you don't have a decorative painter or can't afford one, try wallpapering the ceiling.

02 Invest in pieces of quality that you truly love. If you buy things you love you will always find a home for them.

05 Don't just have the typical sofa in front of the fireplace with two chairs. Instead, have multiple seating areas and small pull-up chairs and stools. This makes for a much more comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

In order not to make this post extremely long, I only highlighted a small portion of her work! I highly encourage you to visit OKL for a full biography of Michelle, her tips, and more images of her work.

Since OKL is a members-only site, here how it works:

If you are a member, log in, and look for the Get Inspired tab to find designer bios.
If you are not a member, it is free, and gives you access to daily sales and more. For MDS readers, if you join by February 28, 2010, you receive $10 credit instantly (which is free shipping on orders of $100 or less).

For instance, I sent my friend, who signed up, got free shipping and got a great Mother’s Day gift for $20. I knew her mother-in-law loved owls, saw a daily sale with adorable pottery owls, and there you go. Easy gift-giving! There are always lots of great items under $100!

Invent Your Own Cocktail Party

2010-02-17T13:14:00.001-06:00

Really interesting article in Food & Wine this month about a cocktail party for aspiring “mixologists”; where you invent cocktails using some basic knowledge. The party was thrown by rising-star bartender Eric Alperin of The Varnish in Los Angeles.

“Almost all great cocktails involve a few fundamental categories of flavor: strong, sweet, sour and bitter most commonly, plus the outliers floral, smoky and spicy (like cayenne pepper, a new drinks trend right now). With the right proportions, it's possible to play a mix-and-match game of ingredients, which makes coming up with a new drink strangely easy.”

Alperin deconstructed a couple of vintage cocktails for the guests, then let them start making their own creations.

Deconstructed Manhattan: rye whiskey (strong), vermouth (sweet) and Angostura bitters (bitter).

A Southside Royale: gin (strong), simple syrup (sweet), lime juice and champagne (sour) and mint (floral).

Of course, it isn’t a party without food. On my list of recipes to try from L.A. chef Jason Travi: Crispy Chickpeas, Creamy Semolina with Roasted Mushrooms (funny, I came THIS close to buying bulk semolina today. Now I have a recipe!), Pear Tartlets (made with phyllo dough and almond cream), and Bibb and Radish Salad with Buttermilk Dressing. I have all the makings for the dressing, but will substitute yogurt cheese for sour cream. I bought a Donvier Yogurt Cheese maker 10 years ago, long before the craze for Greek yogurt. Much cheaper to make it yourself; cheesecloth or a fine strainer over a bowl would work too.

Buttermilk Dressing
Recipe by Grace Parisi

Ingredients:

1 small garlic clove, smashed
Salt
3 tablespoons sour cream
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1/4 cup buttermilk
Freshly ground pepper

Directions:
Sprinkle the garlic with a pinch of salt and mash to a paste. In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise and vinegar. Whisk in the buttermilk and season with pepper.

Notes:
Blue Cheese Dressing Add 2 ounces crumbled blue cheese.
Tzatziki Dressing Add 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese and 1 tablespoon chopped dill

Photo credits: Dave Lauridsen

My Style File: Jonathan Adler

2010-02-15T11:31:00.001-06:00

1st Dibs has a great section in their online Introspective magazine: Style Compass. This week, Andrew Myers wrote about Jonathan Adler. I have mentioned my affection for all things Adler before, (don’t laugh at the teeny pictures on that post, it was a long time ago).

Jonathan’s book, My Prescription for Anti-Depressive Living, is a guide to making your home happy. Just looking at these images of his Palm Beach apartment makes me happy!

Friday Find: Magar Hatworks

2010-02-12T14:16:00.001-06:00

Rows of vintage hat molds provide a handsome backdrop for "Naomi," an elegant ostrich-plumed topper. Magar's masterpieces start at $150.

I love hats, yet most of my hat wearing today is relegated to baseball caps. I do have one classic summer hat, a tan and natural woven hat with a wide brim. To this day, I still regret the winter one that I didn’t buy from Bergdorf Goodman my first year in NYC. It was black, wool and very Audrey!

Magar Hatworks, is the creation of Leigh Magar, a Charleston, South Carolina native. She was featured as one of Country Living’s 2009 Women Entrepreneurs. “Magar worked as a live-in maid to put herself through millinery school at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology, then spent another two years as an apprentice. At that point, her "funding" consisted of a single credit card, so debuting her designs at pricey trade shows wasn't an option. Instead, she screwed up her courage, cold-called a buyer at high-end department store Barneys — and landed herself a client.”

While it takes a certain panache to wear some of her creations, such as the “Naomi” above, others seem quite versatile and would be nice additions to a wardrobe. She is currently working on her spring collection for Barney’s; I can’t wait to see the finished results!

Magar hangs her creations on Shaker pegs screwed into flat pine molding.

Rufus, from the Fall 2009 collection

Esther, from the Spring 2008 collection

Photographs courtesy of: Squire Fox for Country Living, Magar Hatworks

Valentine’s Day: Hooray or Just Okay?

2010-02-10T11:00:00.001-06:00

Smoked-Tea-Infused Chocolate Pots de Crème

I admit it freely, we are not big on celebrating manufactured holidays in our house. Don't get me wrong, I love my husband, and I love being surprised by a special dinner, or flowers, or gifts. But, the pressure to perform on one specific day led to some unrealistic expectations early on in our marriage. Luckily, we have passed that stage, and have a more laid-back approach to to our V-Day celebrations.

However, I do welcome the chance to make food that is above ordinary, something we wouldn’t make every day. My husband is an excellent cook, so we both embrace new recipes with gusto! Smoked-Tea-Infused Chocolate Pots de Crème sounded exotic; visit the Chocolate Desserts slideshow, to drool over the amazing photographs by Christopher Griffith! Food as art! Bon Appétit has more ideas for Valentine’s Day, such as 17 Sexy Dishes, How to Cook for Two, Impress for Less and more.

As for gifts, it makes his life much easier if I just suggest what I like. Here is what is on my list:

When I was admiring all the Palm Springs color that is Trina Turk, I ran across these Jewel Crusted Rings. Be still my heart, only $88!

Stella is my signature, but Prada’s ‘Infusion D’Iris’ has intrigued me of late. Nordstrom has a gift set for $100 (which includes the 3.4oz EDP and 8.5 oz body lotion), for the same price as the EDP. Plus, you can click and pick-up.

As someone who loves interior design, an E-Gift Card from One Kings Lane would be great. Available in amounts from $25 - $1,000. Candles, luggage, stationary, home, kids, rugs, furniture and more! If you recall, I got these great Working Class Studio melamine plates at OKL. Membership is free, and you receive $10 credit instantly if you join by midnight PT on February 28, 2010.

So, what are you plans for Valentine’s Day? Laid back, or full force romance?

Photographs: Christopher Griffith for Bon Appétit, Nordstrom, One Kings Lane, Trina Turk

Best Paint Colors for Brunettes (updated)

2010-02-09T09:53:00.001-06:00

I love these articles - how to choose the Best Colors for Brunettes.
Just as certain colors look best next to our skin, it would make sense that certain colors are more flattering to use on our walls. I am leaning towards the Glowing Apricot, or Perky Peach for my closet, perhaps with True Pink on the inside back of my shelving.

My bathroom is Robin's Egg and the bedroom is Guilford Green, but I am wanting something cozier on the bedroom walls as we have high ceilings.

In my father’s house, I found my parents turquoise and lime green bedspread from 30 years ago. It is so funny how everything old is new and hip again. I love it and it will go well with my orange velvet curtains once I get around to hanging them!

So, the above was posted in 2008. It is interesting to revisit old posts, and see how things have changed. And to see that it takes me forever to make decisions, as my walls are still the original shades! However, I do still have those strong accent colors in my bedroom.

While all the colors are still wonderful, I find myself drawn to clearer and brighter shades today. My picks for 2010 have been updated to include the new shades I am leaning towards. Have you found that your color palette has shifted, either stronger, or softer recently?

My Picks for 2008:BENJAMIN MOORE TRUE PINK 2003-40: "I can't think of a better room for a brunette than Harry's Bar in Florence, with begonia pink walls and dark wainscoting. The tablecloths and napkins are the same pink with a hint of blue in it, which makes it a tad cooler. Rich colors are really flattering to brunettes, while blondes just fade away. But stay away from sweet, or anything that looks like it would be appropriate for Easter." -JARRETT HEDBORG

BENJAMIN MOORE GLOWING APRICOT 165: "This apricot reflects on your skin to make you look healthier and more youthful. Who in their right mind wouldn't want that? It has multiple pigments, so it transitions during the day and takes on a richer hue at night. I've used it in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms -- with celadon, muted blues, cocoa browns, or creams." -BARBARA BARRY

BENJAMIN MOORE PERKY PEACH 2012-50: "What makes a dark-haired woman look good is a glow of color. This soft, sensual peach has the romance of candlelight and the warmth of cashmere. If a woman paints her bedroom this color, a man might think it's too feminine until he's in it. But then he would feel enveloped and embraced, warm, cozy, taken care of -- all those things people like to feel." -SUSAN ZISES GREEN

My Picks for 2010:

RALPH LAUREN BAJA ORANGE IB62: "I'm Italian, and it's very Italian to use orange. Think of those luxury brands with orange logos -- Hermes and Pratesi. I see it lacquered on a ceiling, with cream walls. Or you could get that faded Tuscan feeling by using it as a wash in the living room. A lacquered orange library with black bookshelves would be totally sensational. Supermodern, superchic." -MILLY DE CABROL

KT.COLOR ROUGE FRAMBOISE 32.101: "I'm completely in love with these paints, originally made for Le Corbusier and mixed with pure artist's pigments, so you get these supersaturated jewel tones. This is the color of garnets, rubies, Japanese maple leaves, that red dress you wear on a first date that really sizzles. I see it in a dining room with red wine, a five-course meal, candlelight, and twinkling glasses." -AMY LAU

BENJAMIN MOORE CRYSTAL BLUE 2051-70: "There's something about pink skin and brown hair and a pale blue bedroom. It's very flattering to a brunette, I'll tell you, being brunette myself at one time. People look great against outdoor colors, and this is a sky blue with a touch of green, like a robin's egg but even paler. Use it with linen white woodwork and a blue-and-white toile." -MARIO BUATTA

Accessorizing Low Tables

2010-02-07T23:11:00.001-06:00

One of my projects is to find a new coffee table for our living room. Once we got our new sofa, our current rectangular table became too large. The Eileen Gray table (shown below, in front of our sofa) is perfect for a side table, but obviously not functional enough for a coffee table.

We first need to determine what style to get, and then, how to accessorize. According to interior designer James Charles, in the Dallas Morning News, the best tablescapes have:

Composition – how objects work together
Variation – mix objects for color, proportion and contrast
Context – consider the room and type of table you have
Passion – reflection of what inspires you
360-degree perspective – look good from every angle
Patience – getting the right mix takes experimentation

So, with these rules in mind, I compiled my favorite examples from Accessorizing Low Tables, in Architectural Digest.

Cyan, a 160-foot yacht, designed by Nina Seirafi. Sofa and low table fabrics, Bergamo. Stark pillow fabric. (November 2009)

One of my favorite AD spreads has to be this apartment. Modern furniture set against the great bones of this apartment. And those lamps are huge! The low table and sofas, created by architect Chakib Richani for the Paris apartment of fashion designer Elie Saab, were “inspired by the cube.” (December 2009)

Thomas Pheasant designs his own home—a classically inspired contemporary residence in Washington, D.C. (September 2009)

Banana Republic president Jack Calhoun and Trent Norris restored and renovated their 1905 San Francisco Pacific Heights home. Low table, Therien. Sofa, Henredon. (September 2008)

In the Lowry Hotel’s Charles Forte Suite, located in Manchester, England, designer Olga Polizzi chose a Ruth Roland bust of artist L.S. Lowry—the hotel’s namesake—as the centerpiece on the low table. (May 2004)

Los Angeles-based interior designer Timothy Corrigan brought Château de Grand-Lucé—his residence in the Loire Valley of France—back to life. (September 2009)

The table is so unusual and doesn’t need any additional adornment other than the glass orbs. Geoffrey Bradfield redesigned his 1869 Manhattan town house and chose the Yves Klein low table from Sotheby’s for the library. “It’s very unusual for me to use funky colors,” he says. “I like clear colors.” (September 2005)

Another amazing apartment…the molding, those drapes! If I were to do traditional, this would be in my inspiration file (it is anyway, and I am a modern girl). “The objective was to create a harmonious interplay of French and Asian styles, both classical and modern, in an apartment with high ceilings and original moldings and fireplaces,” says designer Christopher Noto of his pied-à-terre in Paris. (September 2009)

Photo credits: Ken Hayden, Marina Faust, Robert McLeod, Erhard Pfeiffer, Durston Saylor, Billy Cunningham, Mary E. Nichols, Matthew Millman, Michael Moran, Marina Faust, Gordon Beall, Andrew Twort, Durston Saylor, Andrew Twort, Marine Faust, David Marlow

Craving Comfort and Color

2010-02-04T23:06:00.001-06:00

Where has this week gone? It is hard to believe that it is already Friday. The weather has been cold, gray and rainy, so I have been craving comfort food, my comfortable sweats and colorful images!

Here is what we ate this week:

Chicken with Olives and Pine Nuts

Zucchini Stoup with Herb Breadcrumbs

Both dishes were delicious in different ways. The sauce from the chicken was velvety and full-flavored, perfect with a crusty loaf of bread and a green salad. The soup was healthy, chock full of vegetables, warm and comforting.

All this dreary weather had me thinking about going on vacation…maybe sunny Palm Springs! Among my tear sheets was Trina Turk’s outdoor collection for F. Schumacher. This got me in the mood for color!

Bright and breezy shades of turquoise, citron, watermelon and marine are combined with smart neutrals such as sand dune and charcoal, giving these outdoor suitable prints a thoroughly modern appeal.

Maybe, as a temporary solution, I could buy some pillows to brighten up my living room.

Or just to add some graphic punch in black and white

Whatever I do, come summer, this Loop de Loop Pacific Beach Bag will be mine!

available May 2010

photos: House Beautiful, Marcus Nilsson for Rachael Ray, F. Schumacher, Trina Turk

On Safari with Scalamandré

2010-02-03T00:31:00.001-06:00

photo: New York Times

It is uncanny how certain images are imprinted in our memory. I came across an ad recently for Scalamandré “Zebra” wallpaper and it immediately brought to mind dinner, at an Italian restaurant, almost 18 years ago.

Gino (or Gino’s as many call it), has been an institution since 1945. Gino A. Circiello, according to the NYT, was “a restaurateur who shunned credit cards, reservations and advertising but built a Manhattan institution on the strength of homey Italian cooking and 314 exuberantly leaping zebras on tomato-red wallpaper.”

The restaurant, located on Lexington Avenue, claimed a loyal clientele like Ed Sullivan (who ordered the same chicken dish every day, then proceeded to work at his table) and Frank Sinatra, who brought a table full of people to the restaurant every Mother’s Day.

I did not remember the name of the restaurant, until I did a little research on the wallpaper. It was 18 years ago after all, however, I remember that wallpaper!

The reissued version is above (available in four colors). If you look closely at the original versus the reissued, you notice that the smaller zebra is missing a stripe near the tail. After a kitchen fire, Gino’s was readying for their reopening. When the replacement screens came in, there was an error, but they had to use the paper in order to meet their deadline. And they have used the exact same wallpaper (missing stripe and all), ever since.

Of course, even imperfect, anything from Scalamandré is magnificent in my opinion. A manufacturer of traditional textiles, decorative textile trims, wall covering, and carpeting, Scalamandré has reproduced historic textile documents for prestigious homes and museums including the White House, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California.

And, lest you think that wallpaper like this won’t work at home, see the two examples below.

Kate Spade's Guest Bathroom, from World of Interiors

Miles Redd, in Elle Decor

How To…Renovate Craigslist Finds

2010-02-01T15:35:00.002-06:00

What a great looking dresser! You have to love it even more when you find out that it was a Craigslist find, originally $25. And that it cost only $124 to redo it.

Here is the dresser before:

What a difference! Visit Sunset Magazine’s I Found It on Craigslist! to read all about how to makeover a dresser, redo a side table, refresh frames, paint candlesticks, and reupholster a chair.

I am really interested in the how-to for the chair, as I have a lot of wood pieces sitting around; I keep threatening to attempt to refinish them. However, I am not a hands-on type of girl, which keeps me from actually doing it. But, maybe with the help of my husband, I can finally get these done once the weather warms up.

chair before

chair after

Photo: Rob D. Brodman, Sunset Magazine

Friday Finds: Saltbox and Annechovie

2010-01-28T23:14:00.001-06:00

Saltbox - Currently on sale at One Kings Lane, .these good looking travel bags have always caught my eye any time they are featured. Nowadays, when airlines are charging for checked bags, it makes sense to learn to travel light, and of course, in style.

Based in Manhattan, Saltbox brings canvas to new heights through thoughtful design. Stain- and water-resistant, each breaks in like a favorite pair of jeans, softening and conforming to its contents. Key features like extra snaps, innovative pockets and convertible straps give each piece shape, individuality and versatility.

Some styles are currently gone, but there are still quite a few styles left. As always, these sales go quickly (this one ends 1/31), so don’t dawdle.

Annechovie - Every time I see Anne Harwell’s work, I remember how much I like her drawings. It isn’t just me who likes her work, she has a multitude of fans, and her work is featured on the set of the new Nancy Meyers film, It’s Complicated.

From boxed notecards:
To chair prints:

To one of my favorite quote prints:

Hotel Missoni: Where Food and Fashion Meet

2010-01-27T22:25:00.000-06:00

Hotel Missoni - Edinburgh

In 2009, the Missoni family combined food, fashion and interior design by opening Hotel Missoni. The first hotel opened in Edinburgh; Kuwait is planned for spring 2010.

The Edinburgh hotel has a color palette of mostly blacks, whites and silvers; the Kuwait property features the colorful hues associated with the Missoni brand. Rosita Missoni has filled the hotel with an assortment of mid-century furniture, by the likes of Arne Jacobsen, Marcel Wanders and Hans Wegner.

Hotel exterior

Rosita Missoni. Notice the Missoni kilts on the waiters.

Huge vases in the hotel lobby of the hotel feature graphic patterns.
I love this bar and lounge!!

Bedrooms in the Edinburgh hotel are neutral, with pops of color.

Then we move to images of the Hotel Missoni – Kuwait. Notice the change in color-ways.

Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chair in the Cucina Missoni Restaurant

Missoni "Margherita" Dinnerware

True to their Italian heritage, the Cucina Missoni Restaurant features traditional Missoni family favorites, that Rosita updated with Michelin-starred chef Giorgio Locatelli. I can’t wait to try spaghetti tossed with fresh tomatoes, basil, olives and capers, or any of the other ones. My Note: Don’t shy away from anchovies, once they cook, they melt down and add a subtle, salty flavor. We keep a tube of anchovy paste in the refrigerator for easy access. My favorite recipe (I had it years ago at N9NE Steakhouse in Chicago) is a side of spinach, sautéed in olive oil, with anchovy paste, pine nuts and a splash of lemon. So satisfying!

Spaghetti with Tomato & Capers
from Food & Wine

Ingredients

3/4 pound spaghetti
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black olives, chopped
4 anchovy fillets, chopped
1 tablespoon small capers
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup chopped basil

Directions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente; drain, reserving 1/3 cup of the cooking water.
Meanwhile, in a large, deep skillet, heat the oil. Add the tomatoes, olives, anchovies and capers and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until just hot, about 3 minutes.
Add the pasta to the skillet along with the reserved cooking water and toss. Season with salt and pepper and transfer to a large bowl. Sprinkle with the basil and serve.

Also on the menu: pan-fried scamorza (a provolone-like cheese) served with two pestos, and grilled eggplant involtini (rolls) topped with goat cheese vinaigrette.

Images courtesy of Hotel Missoni

Etsy Finds: Help for Haiti

2010-01-27T00:11:00.001-06:00

Pictures of Haiti: Wilson, 8x10

After news of the devastating earthquake, many Etsy sellers began to offer portions of their sales to help victims of this terrible disaster. Today on Etsy Finds, they presented items from various shops and sellers, who are helping to contribute to relief funds. Check back on Etsy regularly to find more items supporting aid to Haiti.

Here are my favorites:

Vintage Minimalist Pendant - Hearts for Haiti

Animal Alphabet Poster - CraftHope for Haiti

Set of 10 brown (or hot pink) initial monogram notecards

Vintage Pink Floral pillow cover

Berlin, Germany - Red Umbrella in the Jewish memorial - Original Signed Fine Art Photography Print 5x7.5

Paris, France - Wallace Fountains, The Child with the Umbrella - Original Signed Fine Art Photography Print 5x7.5

Small Space Solutions: Corner Bookshelves

2010-01-25T19:23:00.001-06:00

I was drawn to the color combinations, as well as the use of limited space in this apartment. We have some awkward walls in our house, and I like the idea maximizing whatever space we have. In addition, I am trying to decide on a new color for my husband's office, and charcoal gray is on the short list of paint trends for 2010, and his office is a small space.

Architect Jeffery Povero maximized space in his 860-square-foot New York apartment with architectural custom shelving, which provides neatly efficient storage. He also used opposing paint colors to make the space seem larger: Benjamin Moore’s Iron Mountain (on walls) and white (in recesses) help the dark color dematerialize at the edges. Bedspread from ABC Carpet and Home.

Photo by Peter Murdock, Metropolitan Home, March 2008.

Friday Find: Alanna Cavanagh

2010-01-22T00:47:00.001-06:00

Brooks Brother Suit (Green) 2009, 26" X 39"

While catching up on my reading, I happened to see a blurb about the Hollace Cluny showroom in Toronto, and how artist Alanna Cavanagh transformed their showroom with a giant mural, based on her “Squiggle” drawings. Hollace Cluny is a respected destination for modern design and decorative arts, carrying such lines as Knoll, Carl Hansen and Georg Jensen.

Alanna was kind enough to send me some images of the showroom. The modern furniture plays nicely off the fanciful mural.

The original drawing the mural is based on.

The exterior of the shop, located at 1070 Yonge St.

I am enamored with Alanna’s silkscreen prints. Here she is shown above, tea-staining her vintage book prints. One of my favorite prints, the dapper Brooks Brother Suit (Green) 2009, is shown at the top of the post. Imagine that in a library or in a man’s dressing room.

Big Orange Scissors, 29.5" X 41" would be such a graphic piece for your living room. As we discussed in our series All About Art, original art comes in a myriad of styles and price points, and adds such a unique quality to your rooms.

A Room of One's Own, 25" X 35" Unframed. Stained with Coffee and Tea.

Small Space Decorating Mistakes

2010-01-20T22:47:00.001-06:00

Osborne & Little. Wallpaper: SUMMER PALACE IN BLUE

If you have learned anything about me from reading my blog, you know that I am slightly obsessive about compiling information. It was my overflowing stacks of tear sheets (of images and articles) that really propelled me into blogging. I hope that you, like me, love to get tips from experts.

I used to save links to articles I liked, but as shelter magazines have folded, the links became worthless. In many cases, I threw away the original articles, thinking I would have online resources. ARGH!!

So, God forbid anything happens to House Beautiful (if times get desperate, I will go door to door to sell subscriptions)!!

In the meantime, I am sharing some favorites from What's the Biggest Mistake People Make with a Small Space?, but saving a full version just for me!

"Playing it safe. Instead, put a large-scale printed fabric or wallpaper on the walls and even the ceiling. It's easier, safer, and less expensive to be dramatic in a small space. You might get tired of a bold print in the main living area, but it can make a smaller, less-used room an exciting space to spend time." —VICTORIA NEALE

"Cramming the space with too much stuff. A large piece of furniture can actually make the space feel larger, as long as it's selected carefully. For instance, if you have the benefit of high ceilings, a tall cabinet appropriately placed has the effect of drawing one's eye upward and away from the small footprint of the room. Just make sure every piece counts and holds its place and lets your eye rest." —LAURA KIRAR

"Often, a small space is a missed opportunity. Turn it into a jewel box. For instance, I turned a small room in my apartment into a luxurious retreat. I upholstered the walls in a soft chalk-striped brown wool flannel, coffered the ceiling applying custom-designed 'faux bois' wall covering in the coffers, laid a plush red carpet, installed a flat-screen TV on a flexible mount, hung an oversize faux-tortoise-frame mirror to create more dimension, and, finally, designed a custom-made sectional sofa to optimize the space. Now it's a cozy space my whole family uses." —PHILIP GORRIVAN

"White walls. Paint the room a dark charcoal gray or Ralph Lauren's Black Truffles, one of my favorites. This will actually really open up the space." —PAUL MATHIEU

What great ideas to make the most of whatever space you have!

Two Great Giveaways

2010-01-19T22:36:00.001-06:00

Ragland Hill Social is doing A Week in White, full of inspirational pictures. In addition, she is giving away a set of beautiful monogrammed terrycloth hand towels from Leontine Linens!

Starfish and Sundresses is giving away a pair of these fun Amrita Singh Hampton Collection earrings. Check out the various outfits she put together using these earrings. Makes me want to go on vacation!

What's Your Domicile Style?

2010-01-18T17:37:00.011-06:00

I like to take design quizzes, (even though they tend tell me what I already know). However, I enjoy the questions, and finding where my answers fall on the scale.

What's Your Domicile Style looked fun (and yes, I liked that is plays off the name of my blog). My style is that I am in a transitional stage. I definitely agree with that conclusion. There is so much that unknown in our lives, and we know that this is not the house we want to live in long term.

I also liked the poll using the images above. I fall into Contemporary Comfort, as do most of the Style at Home readers.

So I am curious, what category best describes your style? And what style shown above appeals to you most?

images: Style at Home