STYLEBEAT

ANTHROPOLOGIE HOSTS A SUBSTANCE AND STYLE BOOK EVENT WITH ELLE DECOR'S MARGARET RUSSELL IN NYC NOVEMBER 18th

2009-11-10T14:42:00.004-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Anthropologie
Come and check out the newest book from Elle Decor's Margaret Russell. Substance and Style celebrates 20 years of great Elle Decor projects that mix fashion, art and culture, arranged by type of room. Margaret has been at the magazine since its start, and rose to editor in chief after rolling up her sleeves lugging boxes, editing, and styling, becoming completely aligned with the vision of the magazine and it's dedication to, in her words, "personal, pragmatic and authentic" interiors and products. The cover, featuring a Bridgehampton,Long Island project by Victoria Hagan is the best selling issue ever. Who doesn't love blue and white, especially at the beach? Does this mean I can put all my back issues in the circular file? Heck no!

ANOTHER SAD DAY: METROPOLITAN HOME FOLDS

2009-11-09T12:38:00.006-05:00

Elle Decor will now rule the home roost over at Hachette Filipacchi, with today's shuttering of Met Home. Another huge hit for the shelter category, where ad pages are dwindling and readership is down. To read the press release, visit Editor at Large.
Where will the die hard modernists go now to get their fix?

THE BOOK TO COVET NOW: DAVID HICKS- A LIFE OF DESIGN

2009-11-06T17:30:00.005-05:00

Ashley Hicks has spent years going through journals and archives to create a new book about his late father and style icon. The result, David Hicks: A life of Design by Rizzoli, is compelling and inspired. Ashley, a designer himself, carries on his designer father's legacy with a fantastic fabric collection with Lee Jofa, Stark rugs, and soon to be launched stone flooring with Studium. With 700 images that chronicle the interiors of 1970's design, the pattern and color infused rooms David created serve as a thorough reference of his entire career. Hicks is widely known for his "tablescapes", a way he displayed collections of objects on coffee tables and in vignettes. The mix of bold color, antiques with modern pieces, and tailored upholstery came together in rigorously controlled environments. According to Hick's wife, Lady Pamela, "high-gloss brown walls entered his professional vocabulary after she began throwing glasses of Coca-Cola at him during moments of marital discord." That being said, this legendary whirlwind of emotion and talent is one of the most influential designers of the late twentieth century, who left his indelible mark on the use of color in interiors and how we design today. Collecting his earlier out of print books on ebay at thrift shops and book sales, they fetch high price tags. For the first time, his work is shown in its entirety, making A Life of Design by Rizzoli a library must.

I chatted with Ashley recently by email, where he told me about the experience of putting the book together, and what his father's legacy means to him:

What was it like reflecting on your father's career and looking through the photo archives to put the book together? Are there interiors that still exist in situ?

Lady John Cholmondeley still lives in her fabulous 1967 penthouse, unchanged. It is on pg. 108-9 of the book. Baronscourt, in Northern Ireland, is still exactly the same, and is on pg. 218. Vila Verde in Portugal also, is the same, on pg. 268. My mother lives at The Grove, unchanged except that she has some of my Lee Jofa fabrics now.

It was fun putting the book together. I was very keen to include as much as possible of his best work, and am delighted with the result. I love having the selection of his paintings and graphic designs at the start - they show so much of his stylistic development. I was determined to include a lot of personal things - it was a LIFE of design, and his clothes, his manner, his writing-paper and speedboat flag, all of that was part of his work. I particularly love the JP Stevens promotional film stills on pg.180.

What is your favorite project of his?

His bath/dressing room in Chelsea, 1970, (pg.195) in which I used to sleep when in London, with brown tweed covering floor, walls and furniture, and scarlet-gridded, aluminum tiled panels. It was an incredibly glamorous and exciting space - and I still remember how great the tweed felt to my bare feet.

What about his design and style makes it so relevant today?

He was fantastically creative and always determined that each room - and each house - should be totally different; he also published so much, that it's all recorded. He was also a true artist, with a great feel for colour, pattern and line, and a great knowledge of historical interiors; he had no
fear of his clients - Nicky Haslam, in an obituary, called him an 'Interior Dictator'. All this has left a huge resource for people looking for inspiration today. His design and style would be relevant at any time, I think, because it draws on so many different periods, it mixes so much, that it is utterly timeless. I also notice that a lot of people cite him as an influence while their work is completely different - there is so much in his that everyone can take something...

Is there a favorite story about his work or a project you remember?

For his last great project, Vila Verde in Portugal, he had very indulgent clients/friends who gave him his own room and let him use the house as his own home as much as theirs. So much so that when he was in residence they would retreat to a small, upstairs sitting room which had 2 open, barred 'oculi' looking down on the Great Room where he would entertain his own guests. When I was there the clients both jokingly clung to the bars, wailing 'Let us out! He has imprisoned us up here!'

THE BOOK

Photos courtesy of David Hicks Archive, from David Hicks by Ashley Hicks, Rizzoli 2009
Never one to shy away from being photographed, Hicks is seen here in a 1961 portrait minding the shop. He is surrounded by white painted antiques poised next to a Georgian chair.

The drawing room of Peter Coats’s set in A1, Albany, Piccadilly, done in 1961 with an exotic souvenir of Peter’s time in India.

The master bedroom at St Leonard’s Terrace, which Hicks decorated in 1963 with his new fabric, Wait a Minim. The the original design stemmed from a collage of tissue paper, known then as and later as Tumbling Rose. It was reissued by Lee Jofa as Ambrosia Rose. This covered walls, including flush cabinets around the bed; roller blinds, bed, and a pair of tablecloths. Bedside tables had cloths of shocking pink felt with glass tops. A dainty Louis XVI canapé was covered in pale pink glazed cotton, with a white glass table, lamps and accessories placed nearby. The matched carpet curtains completed this fresh look. Outside, one of the prettiest views in London, an allee to Wren’s Royal Hospital could be seen.

Photo (C) Norman McGrath, from David Hicks by Ashley Hicks, Rizzoli 2009
The Alan Vetere apartment in New York, 1971. Hicks emphasised the concrete beams by painting them terracotta, giving the space a real sense of structure, and covering walls and ceiling in his bold, big - scale “Arabic” wallpaper, with a “Celtic” rug on the parquet floor, and an extravagant
fur bedspread. Burnt orange vinyl Roman shades and lacquered table, a chrome étagère and a mirror frame covered in a Hicks hexagon design completed this wild - inspired bedroom.

Photo (C) John T. Hill, from David Hicks by Ashley Hicks, Rizzoli 2009
Mark and Duane Hampton’s first New Yorkliving room in 1968. The walls were covered in grey flannel, the floor in Hicks “Queen Bee” carpet design. Hicks created the interior as a wedding present for the young Hampton, who had briefly worked for him in London before becoming his American associate. Mark, instead, remembered it as a collaboration, although the carpet was a gift. The Roman shade was in washable white vinyl, framed by silvered screens, Louis XVI chairs upholstered in op - art Welsh blankets and a curved canvas by Peter Tangen completed the space.

HICKS DESIGN TODAY:

Photo Courtesy of Studium
Launched this year, the marble and limestone flooring from Studium brings a strong graphic element to a space. Nine designs would look great everywhere from powder rooms to entrance halls.

LEE JOFA GROUNDWORKS FABRICS

Photos Courtesy of Lee Jofa
The fabric line debuted a few years back and there is a fabric for every mood, be it graphic, soft prints or small geometrics. The flowers here are a favorite for their watercolor effect print.
Ambrosia Rose Jute Print in Natural/Blue

Herbert's Carnation Weave in Red/Plum

La Fiorentina in Wine/Magenta

Daisy Daisy in Pink/Orange

READ YOUR HOROSCOPE

2009-11-04T18:20:00.001-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Bell'Invito
Celebrate your sign. Don Carney of Patch NYC was tapped by Heather Wiese Alexander, founder of Bell’Invito stationery, to create a new group of paper items. Heather, a former art director for Neiman Marcus, has a distinct home inspired point of view and an appreciation, as well as a feel for hand crafted, special things. Don worked to create a unique, woodblock- inspired collection. The outcome, The 2010 Don Carney Zodiac Collection, includes ink drawn horoscope - illustrated pieces, that were turned into letterpress book plates, gift tags, correspondence cards, calendars and book marks. Order yours in time for the holidays at Bell'Invito. BI also does couture design work, lines of custom design motifs and boxed stationery sets...more to love!

TONY DUQUETTE LIGHTING LAUNCHES AT REMAINS

2009-10-29T19:20:00.000-05:00

Remains Lighting carries on the fantastical and whimsical designs in lighting created by the late Hollywood designer and bon vivant, Tony Duquette. This new launch in The Permanent Collection is available at all Remains locations and was synced up with the release of newest Duquette tome by Hutton Wilkinson, More is More. A hit of luxury and humor is necessary in these times. Companies should forge ahead with inspiring new designs. We can remain hopeful that things will get better, and look to fantasy-- a necessary element to excite and lead the way.

The Splashing Water Chandelier in in Ecru/Tea takes its cue from a fountain, with its animated arc of water droplets frozen in time.

The Splashing Water Table Lamp Inspiration came from a chandelier Duquette designed in 1956 for the opening fete for his Robertson Boulevard. A marble base and linear metal frame highlights droplets held in mid air above and below the shade.

The Splashing Water Sconce in turquoise and pink has scattered arms that fan out with water drops. A cluster of acrylic drops in the center shimmer like a vintage brooch.

The California Sunburst Sconce design came from a 1964 stage curtain he designed for the LA Music Center. The hand-polished metal extended rays of light in a starburst pattern casts a shadow on walls and makes quite a statement .

The California Sunburst Corona Chandelier with sleek angular pieces takes on an entirely new look when suspended.

The California Sunburst Chandelier reminds me of a Bernini sculpture, with its dramatic rays expanding outward.

The Magic Forest Sconce design with wispy branches and feather-like metal leaves are made more lively with acrylic droplets.

The Magic Forest Floor Lamp came from a pair of torchiere-trees Duquette made for the 1952 MGM musical Lovely To Look At.

The suspended Magic Forest Chandelier takes on a whole new look in the round. There is a lightness from the leaves and playful element.

The Dusk Phoenix Candlestick came from themes Duquette often worked wit. The phoenix, a symbol of rebirth and renewal appeared often in his work. This elaborate candlestick combines an ostrich egg, black onyx, and serpentine hard stones, with a hand gilded 23 karat gold pillar, bringing together natural and rare materials.

HUTTON WILKINSON DOES IT AGAIN: MORE IS MORE GOES FOR THE GUSTO

2009-10-27T20:30:00.000-05:00

This has been a busy week for Hutton Wilkinson. After a book event is Atlanta, he is in New York, where the other night, his new book was feted at Saks. Tonight, his lighting collection launched. More is More is the follow up title to Abrams published Tony Duquette, written by his longtime creative partner and collaborative force, Hutton Wilkinson. The legend lives on, with a fabric collection at Jim Thompson, a furniture line with Baker and just launched lighting with Remains. His fantastical jewelery, swank social circle, gorgeous stage sets, costumes, interiors and gardens are shown in detail through sumptuous image after image. If you can't get enough of his Dawnridge, his LA estate and his major baubles, this voluminous volume at over 350 pages has you covered. I wish I could show every luxurious shot in this tome. Here is a taste of what you will find.

Credit:©1978 John Engstead/mptvimages.com
The magic man strikes a pose.

Credit:©Tim Street-Porter
Tony had a way of recycling to create something completely unexpected. Here, for one of his first pavilions on his Malibu ranch, he added Victorian ironwork to an old 1950's Hollywood hotel elevator cage, and reinvented it as a pavilion. He gave things a second life.

Credit: Tony Duquette Estate
Tony created this drawing for a garden pavilion he had made for a wedding near San Francisco.

A fretwork pavilion in Pasadena, CA.

The elaborate Chinese Regency sitting room with cane detailing at Cow Hollow circa 1980, his San Francisco home.

Credit:© Fernando Bengoechea
The red guest room in Hutton's Malibu home, Argyle Farm, deftly mixes bold patterns and colors. The wild shell chandelier was from a department store Tony decorated.

Credit: ©William Gray Harris
Hutton's bedroom at his Malibu house is near where Tony's ranch was. An elaborate Chinese Chippendale tented bed, red fretwork chairs and Chinese Coromandel panels from Tony make the room grand and fun.

Credit: © Fernando Benoechea
In Venice's Palazzo Brandolini, Tony and Hutton enhanced Renzo Mongiardino's existing work, by adding exotic canopies to the four-poster twin beds, and plenty of tassel trim.

Credit: © Tim Street-Porter
A fanciful 1950's powder room is full of style. With Moroccan grill work covering the window, cut out tasseled apron with matching cushion, and wall painting by his wife, Beegle,the space comes alive. Tony felt small, packed spaces had a lot of appeal.

Credit: © Tim Street-Porter
Never underestimate the power of a fabric - swathed room. Tony created a tented fantasy with Indian fabrics in a California guest room. His inspiration came from the set design he created for the 1990 film, Can Can.

Credit: © Tim Street-Porter
The garden room at Dawnridge in Beverly Hills is a riot of color. Malachite green with touches of white are shown with Baker Collection pieces and archival ones.

TURNING THE PAIGE?

2009-10-27T10:26:00.004-05:00

The drums of change continue to beat as loud as ever over at 4 Times Square. With low circulation and dropping ad pages, which industry defining title is looking to make an editorial change after 35 years under the current stewardship? Does this now mean the magazine will change to target to a younger demographic? Stay tuned – we’ll know in 2 weeks time.

A TIME FOR REFLECTION

2009-10-27T08:10:00.001-05:00

Made Goods , a company started by an Anthropologie alum, recently launched a slew of new mirrors at High Point. They specialize in beautiful surface materials, unique shapes and styles you will clamor for. Globally sourced materials are assembled by local craftsmen including resin, shell and metal to stunning effect.

Edith is femme with a soigne silhoutte and shagreen surface.

Intricate jewel like capiz- covered lattice detail fans out from the frame on the Ives.

Ella is a new take on the classic starburst.

Luix, made of zinc, is french in feeling while the cut corners add a modern twist.

A Belgian finish with curvy sides make Jacob a welcome newcomer.

Exotic and reminiscent of what you mind uncover in a crowded Moroccan souk, the Gorka shimmers.

You can never have enough Greek key. Erastos feels fresh with its velvet fabric wrapped surface.

SWEETLY SWEDISH: ELEISH VAN BREEMS LAUNCH NEW BOOK SWEDISH COUNTRY INTERIORS

2009-10-26T08:10:00.001-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Rhonda Eleish & Edie van Breems
They are back! Connecticut antique dealers and designers Rhonda and Edie of Eleish Van Breems Antiques return with a follow up to their 2007 title, Swedish Interiors. Their new release, Swedish Country Interiors, looks at 15 country homes across America. It shows how people interpret and are living with painted furniture, checked fabrics and bleached floors. Being that the look of Swedish style is calming and clean, it is more popular than ever.

Photo Courtesy of Wisteria
By way of example, The Swedish Occasional Chair from Wisteria in a cool blue finish has an interesting back design and comfortable scale.

STYLEBEAT DESIGN DEAL OF THE WEEK: MADELINE WEINRIB SAMPLE SALE

2009-10-22T18:00:00.001-05:00

MADELINE WEINRIB SAMPLE SALE:
40-70% off carpets, pillows, home accessories and more!
Past season designs, one-of-a-kind colorways and samples!

Thursday, October 22^nd through Thursday, November 1^st

Mon-Sat 10-7 Sun 11-6:30

Where:

ABC Carpet & Home

881 Broadway, Lower Level

T 212 473 3000 x780

NEW EMBROIDERED FABRICS WORTH TAKING A LOOK AT FROM VAUGHAN

2009-10-22T08:12:00.003-05:00

The Brits always come up with covetable design. If you are on the hunt for some fresh, contemporary embroideries, look no further. Vaughan Designs, the British company known for their extensive lighting collection, carries terrific fabrics. The soft color palette and modern design add a sophisticated touch that can read city or country.

Selendi, ivory linen with embroidered Medici insignia in dark red.

Tinos, ivory linen with eau de nil embroidery is a soft botanical.

Milas, ivory linen with embroidered pattern in pink and green has an animal and Turkish feel, depending how you look at it.

Keros, in ivory linen with embroidered red coral pattern is an abstracted pattern that makes a nice filler fabric.

Penglai, ivory linen with embroidery in eau de nil has a subtle geometric pattern.

Samos, ivory linen with red embroidery with a bold pattern that would work in an Austrian Schloss or English interior.

Samos in green.

Antalya, ivory linen with red embroidery of vines and flowers.

Seto, ivory linen with embroidery in blue channels David Hicks.

Andros, an ivory Linen with hand embroidered motif in pale blue & coral is remeniscent of early American quilts.

Hydra, ivory linen hand embroidered in pale blue, pale green and coral.

Leros, ivory linen with embroidered damask pattern in eau de nil can work in an arts and crafts interior.

Leros in red.

Photos courtesy of Vaughan
Kos , ivory linen with an embroidered leaf motif in blue, green & red has a small repeat perfect for pillows.

HAVE YOU BEEN HUNTING FOR THE PERFECT DESK?

2009-10-20T08:35:00.003-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Jardins en Fleur
The Kownloon desk from Jardins en Fleur can be used as a console or a desk. Placed in a room against the back of a floating sofa or used against the wall, this piece adds great fretwork detail, and interesting tortoise finish. There is plenty of surface area for your computer, boxes, files, books, and whatever else you feel like piling on.

GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE: THE WILLIAM F. REILLY COLLECTION AUCTION AT CHRISTIES

2009-10-07T16:26:00.036-05:00

Finally, a fall auction to get excited about! Designer Timothy Whealon decorated a magnificent double wide Sutton Place townhouse for late publishing magnate Bill Reilly, an ardent classicist, the contents of which go on the block next week. For over a fourteen year period, Whealon sought out specimen pieces from around the globe, creating a mix of antiques and 20th century pieces for the house. This was done after Bill stated he "wanted to create one of the greatest houses in New York City." By going to country estates, France, Florence, England, and American resources like Brimfield, the sale showcases some of the best George III and approachably priced pieces. Taking a grand tour design perspective, Whealon chose pieces for the home that suited his client's taste. Rarely does the contents of a home this extraordinary come on the block. Whealon, with his art and antiques background and expertise, was so lucky to have a client similar to a Medici in Renaissance Florence. Over the past few days, he has been busy at Christies, recreating vignettes from the house. The drawing room, replete with a custom Benjamin Moore color for the walls, dining room, bedroom, and a vignette of the front sitting room with the George III Irish chimneypiece have been recreated. To see some stunning museum quality antiques, make sure to stop by Christies this weekend to preview the sale. Go pre-sale to get an antique and decorative arts crash course, or to raise your paddle on October 14th, you will be glad you did.

Photo by Joshua McHugh
A round table filled with books, face en face sofas by the fireplace make the living room formal and gracious.

A REGENCY POLLARD OAK ROSEWOOD AND STAINED FRUITWOOD LIBRARY TABLE
CIRCA 1815
Bought from Axel Vervoordt, Belgium (at The International Fine Art and Antique Fine Art and Antique Dealers Show, New York, 2002).

Photo by Joshua McHugh
Another angle shows a round table with benches underneath. The jaunty slipcovers are a charming touch.

A MATCHED PAIR OF ENGLISH GILTWOOD MIRRORS

ONE GEORGE II, CIRCA 1740, THE OTHER MODERN BY CARVERS AND GILDERS, LONDON

A PAIR OF ENGLISH ORMOLU-MOUNTED SATINWOOD-INLAID WALNUT STOOLS
ONE QUEEN ANNE/GEORGE I, CIRCA 1710-1720, THE OTHER REGENCY, EARLY 19TH CENTURY ORIGINALLY IN HAMILTON PALACE, SCOTLAND

Another sun filled view.

Looking out onto the 59th Street bridge, double sash windows in an arced bay enhance the view.

A PAIR OF RUSSIAN BRASS AND EBONY-INLAID MAHOGANY SIDE CHAIRS
CIRCA 1790, POSSIBLY DESIGNED BY ANDREI VORONIKHIN

Two magnificent chairs flank a Roman bust.

Photo by Pieter Estersohn
Comfort and elegance are buzzwords when describing Timothy's style. Books are part of the landscape, and comfortable seating areas create a certain ease.

AN IRISH GEORGE III WHITE MARBLE AND SCAGIOLA CHIMNEYPIECE
ATTRIBUTED TO PIETRO BOSSI, CIRCA 1780

The arrangement is welcoming and not too formal, with the mantel as the focal point, everything revolves around it.

Photo by Pieter Estersohn
The valance and panels allowed the windows to let in the amazing view and light.

Photo by Pieter Estersohn
Timothy designed the canopy bed, also in the sale, and mixed modern and historical pieces for an elegant and current viewpoint.

The master bath, with a long vanity with double sinks is crisp in white veined marble and polished chrome.

The modern lime wash oak x-benches covered in terry cloth were designed by Whealon and are well priced.

The library, with comfy reading chairs and stunning bookcases.

A PAIR OF LOUIS XVI GILTWOOD FAUTEUILS
CIRCA 1780

THE WOW PIECES:

A GEORGE III MAHOGANY CABINET-ON-CHEST
SIGNED WILLIAM HALLETT AND DATED 1763

A QUEEN ANNE EBONIZED OAK AND BEECH SIDE TABLE
CIRCA 1705, POSSIBLY BY JAMES MOORE

A WHITE MARBLE BUST OF AN EMPEROR, PROBABLY HADRIAN
ITALIAN, LATE 17 CENTURY/EARLY 18TH CENTURY
If provenance is what you are looking for, than this piece has a great one. The bust is from the private collection of Andy Warhol's business partner and Factory founding member Fred Hughes.

A GEORGE II BLACK-AND-GILT JAPANNED LINEN PRESS

THE PIECES WORTH BIDDING UP:

A PAIR OF 20TH CENTURY GILT-METAL TABLE LAMPS are a fair asking price and exude loads of style.

A PAIR OF MODERN COPPER-PATINATED CAST-IRON ANDIRONS

A collection of French School, 19th Century architectural drawings of Château de la Souque bought from Amy Perlin Antiques, New York.

A BRONZE TABLE LAMP FROM PATRICE DANGEL,PARIS,MODERN
Based in Paris,the metal artisan Patrice Dangel is a bronzier/artist
represented by Galerie du Passage.

A 20TH CENTURY METAL AND GLASS TABLE

Butterfly 1, 1940's by HORST P. HORST (1906-1999)

OFFICE SPACE: COLOR FILLS DESIGNER ELIZABETH BAUER'S DESK

2009-10-06T19:50:00.015-05:00

Located in the back of her eponymous shop, Elizabeth Bauer has her desk and meets with clients.

Photos Courtesy of Elizabeth Bauer
Inspiration! For a wall size inspiration board, Elizabeth put up a cork surface and wallpapered over it in a zingy Osborne and Little chinoiserie paper.

Our paths first crossed when her cheery personality and great laugh joined O at Home, when she worked with me in the style department. Seeing her open a fantastic store and run a successful design business is so exciting. I recently sat down with Elizabeth to get the scoop on what she is loving now.

Who did you work for/study to learn the trade?

I actually never formally studied design; I was an English major. I fell in love with interior design and antiques and suddenly my whole life began to revolve around all things chic for the home. I interned for an interior designer for several summers in Nantucket when I was 17 and eventually returned to work for her full time after working for Vogue on the publishing side and O at Home in the style department.

What is your signature look? How would you define it?

Modern in a traditional silhouette. I love clean lines and anything that somehow incorporates glass or Lucite; that said, I also use tons of color and pattern. My mother always kept very traditional homes so I think I will never stray too far from the classic but I like to have fun with it!

When did you know this was your calling in life?

I insisted on picking out my own wallpaper for my room when I was 9 years old. Looking back, I know why my mother and her decorator were fighting me on my choice; nonetheless, I put up a good fight and talked my mother into it. Looking back, I must admit that it was kind of terrible but at the same I was very proud of it and had a great sense of accomplishment. Fast forward to my sophomore year of high school: I made my roommate buy the same Laura Ashley comforter so that our beds would match! To this day, my friends still make fun of me for it but at least now they understand where I was headed.

What other designer and or architect do you most admire and why ?

Where to start, there are so many designers that I respect for different reasons. For designers I would say Dorthy Draper, Billy Haines, and Tony Duquette. For architects I would have to say McKim, Mead, and White for the old school and Hugh Newell Jacobson for his current work. As different as they are from one another, I would be thrilled to live in either.

What is your favorite go to fabric house?

Quadrille

What material do you love?

Cut velvet

What is your favorite antique you own and reproduction collection you constantly use as a resource?

By definition, antique would mean 100 years or older and my favorite piece is my cocktail table from the 60's which really is just plain "vintage". Its Lucite in the shape of faux bamboo with brass and glass. For reproductions I like McGuire and Bungalow 5.

What is your favorite project and why?

An apartment I did in New York. The New York residence is a studio, but it has so many layers-- everything is so fine and edited. The back wall of the apartment has a very dramatic and colorful wallpaper by F. Schumacher that is the backbone of the whole apartment. The gallery wall of art also draws you in and gives the room an old world feel while holding its own against the bold wallpaper.

What trade or retail store inspires you most?

Dragonette in LA and Jerry Pair.

What is your favorite new and old interior book?

New is Domestic Art and old is Billy Baldwin Decorates

If you were not doing this what would you be doing?

I'd be an art dealer, my other passion.

What city besides New York do you visit to inspire you?

Los Angeles. The architecture in the Hills is very similar to my decorating: classic yet modern. It's a little bit of everything. Second to LA would be Palm Beach.

WHY DON'T YOU BUY SOMETHING PURPLE?

2009-10-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

Purple is everywhere. The royal color has saturated the market with amethyst, plum and eggplant tones. Add touches of it around your home for fall, and it will provide a perk to banish upcoming winter blues.

Photo Courtesy of William Yeoward
The Dora Hurricane in amethyst from William Yeoward has a nice clean shape, great for everyday use. Leave a pair on the table where they are ready for spur of the moment entertaining.

Photo Courtesy of Nina Campbell
Nina Campbell has charming paper boxes, Bagatelle Spots, available through her website. Add a little animal allure to your desk.

Photo Courtesy of Didriks
The subtle gradations of color in ceramic glazes is something I have come to appreciate. Fine pottery is no longer hippie dippy with Jars, a French tabletop company that produces exquisite stoneware in ethereal colors. Their process achieves a consistently smooth color saturated surface. How they do this remains something of a mystery to me. Their shapes are organic and reminiscent of shapes found in nature, yet they possess a sophistication allowing them to work in a variety of table settings.

Photo Courtesy of Anthropologie
Rock crystal has entered the mainstream design culture. Yet colored rock crystal is newer to the scene, adding a fresher take. Make a purple statement with Anthropologie's Crystal Votive.

Photo Courtesy of Scents and Feel
I discovered Scent and Feel at the Gift Show. They stood out for their gorgeous Tunisian 100 % cotton woven blankets that can be used as a towel, pareo or throw. After a few washings they will get ultra soft. The purple is great but make sure to check out their site for other stunning colors.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

2009-09-29T08:10:00.001-05:00

Lacquer is often considered one of Asia's greatest contributions to the decorative arts. It is about achieving a surface of perfection. Layer upon shiny layer of varnish is applied over and over again, to obtain a mirror finish. Pacific Connections, a California company that offers chic end tables and trays, has just introduced juicy new colors with jaunty white trim. Perk up a powder room, create a tablescape, or become a neatnick and store tiny things in their cute little boxes.

The new hinged box would make a great presentation piece. Palm Beach Polo, what do you think?

Tropical tones are a welcome sight come spring.

Evoking raspberry and lime sorbet, these happy colors in shiny finishes are a breath of fresh air. There is a box for just about everything-- jewels, business cards, stationery...

TALKING TRADE SECRETS WITH PETER DUNHAM

2009-09-21T15:45:00.003-05:00

Hollywood at Home is located in the ever so charming Almont Yard in Los Angeles. It is where Peter Dunham creates his comfortable, chic, casual interiors. His relaxed fabrics have the right blend of charm and pattern, and his shop provides clients with the key elements for this look. Carrying his signature furniture, lighting and accessories, his haven is heavenly. I have talked about his neighbors, Nathan Turner, Harbinger and Lucas Studio, and thought it was time to talk about this prolific Brit! The English have the makings of an interior designer from the day they are born, and Peter was certainly destined for great things after working for David Hicks. I recently spoke to Peter about what inspires and influences him as an interior and product designer:

Who did you work for or study with to learn the trade?

My first summer job when I was 15 was for a company on Sloane Street in London called Zarach. They did a lot of glitz. At one time they had David Hicks and Alessandro Albrizzi working for them. Then I worked at David Hicks while I was in college. I worked for 15 years in Real Estate in New York which gave me a good grounding in business practices, renovating, developing. I learned how to negotiate and to read contracts. It was maybe the most important preparation for what I do now.

When did you know this was your calling in life?

I remember doodling floorplans when I was in high school. My best friend at school’s father was David Hicks. He was the only decorator I had ever met and his work had a huge impact. But he along with other friends in my early 20’s such as Jacques Grange, John Stefanidis kept on saying that it was a terrible way to make a living so I listened and went to work in Real estate in New York. Many of my friends were designers, antique dealers, editors at Shelter Magazines so I was always in that world. I really plunged in when I moved to Los Angeles 12 years ago and had to do the classic re-invent and became an interior designer.

What is your signature look and how would you define it?

David Keeps of the LA Times Home Section called it “Merchant Ivory Moderne”. I don’t think I have a signature look but the common threads to my interiors are generally:carefully defined space and furniture plans, warm and inviting atmosphere, mix of high-low, interesting vintage “finds” mixing with custom made furniture, variety of wall coverings, use of vintage fabrics, tribal and ethnic touches, color, pattern.

What other designer or architect do you most admire?

Jacques Grange. His interiors have a great sexiness to me. There is a very relaxed feel but everything is made by the best French craftsmen often from impossibly esoteric materials. The mix is unexpected and you find yourself loving something that you may have never clicked with before because he uses it in a new way. People look seductive in his interiors.

What material do you love?

Natural fibers: anything made of woven grasses, straw,rush, reed, abacca, sisal, jute etc.. I love their natural colors. I like to use them on floors, walls, upholstery, lampshades, window treatments. I love the colors and textures they have. I try and source different ones all the time.

Do you have a go to fabric resource?

Obviously I love and use my own fabrics a lot. I tend to create things that I need for my work rather than what I think will sell. I love Claremont. They have amazingly sophisticated colors. On the opposite end of the pay scale Pindler has great basics.

Is there a reproduction collection you frequently like to use?

I use a lot of my reproduction collection at Hollywood at Home.
I love the rush chairs from the movie “How to Marry a Millionaire” or my dining armchair from the old Downtown New York Athletic Club that closed, my sofas come from 12 years of refining custom sofas: the Elsie De Wolfe sofa or my Grant Sofa are good classics with a twist. My four posters get used a lot in my projects.

Is there a trade or retail store that you drop by often?

J. F. Chen

What is your biggest antique splurge?

My big red painted (chipped)Regency partners desk. I bought it at Christopher Gibbs’s big auction in England a few years ago. It used to be the table in the office of his shop, but it was featured on the cover of the NY Times Home section just before the sale so I had to pay a lot for it. It makes me happy every time I look at it.

Of all the work you have done, do you have a favorite project?

Designers find it hard to pin this answer down. For me it is the house I worked on with Pamela Levy, one of the two creators of Juicy Couture. It’s a beautiful 1930’s house in Beverly Hills. The collaboration with someone who is so creative was both challenging and an amazing learning experience. I love to have my boundaries pushed and to push those of my clients. Pamela and I did that a lot!
What city do you visit to get inspired?
New York

Every designer collects and uses certain books as a reference. What is on your bookshelf?

Old-ish: The Christies Catalogue to the Sale at Groussay at Paris is an amazing reference. I use it all the time. New-er: The private world of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge. Those guys took decorating and collecting to another orbit.

Do you have a favorite country house in England and America?

In England: Stanway near Bath. Its been used in many films. It’s an early house 15^th or 16^th Century. Not very grand by English standards. The outside is a pale gold color. The inside goes from Jacobean to William Morris (who was a family friend)

If you were not doing this what would you do?

Maybe Antique dealer. I love the hunt and find found objects very poetic.

What are your trade secrets?

Diamond Fabric on La Brea, Bonham’s, Big Daddy’s Antiques, Blackman Cruz, Nathan Turner, Harbinger, Pat McGann, Lucca, Denmark 50, J.F. Chen, Obsolete, NK Antiques, Waldo, Y+B Bolour carpets, Rugs and Arts, Berbere Imports, LA Modern Auctions, Lief, Bourgeois Boheme, Voila, Little Paris, Liz’s Antique Hardware, Reborn, Christopher Farr, Lee Stanton Antiques, Downtown, Claremont Textiles, Noho Modern, The Collection, Dispella Antiques, Dragonette, Wertz Brothers on Lincoln, and The Rosebowl Flea Market.

His upstairs office is packed with textiles and inspiration. That red desk he splurged on is worth it, since it adds a great shape and pop of color to the white room. Great California light for drafting and decorating never hurts.

A custom lipstick red barn door welcomes designers and shoppers to Hollywood at Home.

Let the shopping begin!

A peg hook runs the length of the wall showing full width fabric pieces, and small swing arm lamps provide essential good lighting.

A feature wall provides a closer look at full length designs, and the deep sofa makes you want to sit and stay awhile.

Little moments like this chaise vignette make the shop more like a home. It is hard not to just say, "I'll take it all."

The table provides plenty of surface area. Viola, room schemes come together.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Raised in Paris, Peter is seen here as a toddler, taking in the architectural sights at Fontaine St. Michel in Paris.

His room at boarding school in England was greatly influenced by his best friend's father,David Hicks, the legendary designer he later worked for.

One of Peter's favorite Beverly Hills projects for a founder of Juicy Couture.

THE PETER DUNHAM FURNITURE LINE

The After All Sofa has a deep seat and tailored arm.

The Holmby Sofa is great for conversation, with its kidney shape and cut corner back.

The Barrymore Chair, a small wingback, has nice proportions.

The Gobbs Chair is a quintisential English piece.

The Tub Chair, a charming little thing, would be great by a fireplace.

The Syrie Maugham Chair with wood frame and upholstered seat and back makes a good addition to a living room seating plan.

A Comfy reading chair will stand up to high traffic in a slipcover.

The Tufted Chaise would make a great addition to a dressing room or bedroom corner.

The Moorish Mirror is a clean shape with a hint of Moroccan flourish.

The Hudson table with column base would work well in a center hall.

The Garner Ottoman makes an easy coffee table, perfect for stacking books.

The Rope Lamp is so chic! I love anything with this natural material, so naturally, I am smitten.

How to Marry a Millionaire Chair flies out the door.

Your search is over! The New York Athletic Club Rush Chair is an easy piece to use, it can go casual at the beach or work in a city apartment.

The New York Athletic Club chair with Upholstered Seat takes on a more formal air with the nailhead trim.

Athletic Club Barstool with Upholstered Seat has the best of both words: height and comfort.

THE CANINE KLATCH
Dogs in LA is the norm. But four of them? A group this cute deserve their own special billing.

The Westie line up! Bo, Bella, and Buster and Jazz are blase when it comes to having their photos taken.

Photos Courtesy of Peter Dunham
Bella reflecting on classical influences in her garden.

GREEN ROOM GLAM: MARTYN LAWRENCE- BULLARD'S TENTED LAIR AT THE EMMY AWARDS

2009-09-18T16:28:00.011-05:00

A Moroccan fantasy is about to woo Emmy nom attendees this Sunday night. As they step into the Architectural Digest sponsored tented space, created by Hollywood darling Martyn Lawrence- Bullard, the response will be "ooh la la". The results of which are full on fabulous--- Dorris Duke will surely be there in spirit.

FROM DRAWING

A deep red, olive and navy color scheme fills the tented space with exotic tracery, textured fabrics, rich leathers and silver accented lamps.

Konya Suzani from Schumacher

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Cher Sofa from The Bullard Collection

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Custom Agadir Screens with mirror detail

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Bullard's custom Mamounia for The Rug Company

TO REALITY
Photos Courtesy of Martyn Lawrence-Bullard and Craig T. Mathew/Mathew Imaging
The Bullard effect combines Schumacher and Martyn Lawrence- Bullard fabrics, his new rug and furniture of his own design, Edelman Leather floor tiles, and North African accent tables from JF Chen through 1st Dibs. But beware: getting the cast of 30 Rock and Flight of The Conchords together might get a little crazy!

THAD HAYES AND THE TAILORED INTERIOR HE DOES SO WELL

2009-09-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

Thad Hayes creates beautiful spaces that exude calm and quiet elegance. His recent book, The Tailored Interior from Rizzoli, focuses on twenty-one city and country residences. Tailored is just the word for his work, which he refers to as "rigorous and restrained". He achieves a harmonious balance mixing the finest antique period pieces. Until I pored through the pages, I knew him mainly from his published Architectural Digest projects, where mid century modern minimal decor was often featured. His clients, often uber private with stellar art collections, agreed to participate in the book, and lucky for us, we can be inspired by his discerning eye.

A few standout pieces can take a dining room from simple to outstanding. Each choice antique says something here. Art Deco-inspired agave leaf sculptural lights on pillars flank an abstract painting, and a feminine Russian Neoclassical chandelier gives off flattering light. The curve backed chairs around an English mahogany table add visual interest with their rounded edges.

The dining room of a New York apartment owned by collectors. They chose this vibrant color combination, a sure fire way to keep dinner conversation lively. French blue walls and a Donald Judd red and white woodblock print series animate the walls, while the x- patterned 1940's dining chair backs create their own visual geometry.

A Maryland living room awash in a soft pink highlights the collection of museum quality Chinese art.

Neutral equals serene in a high ceilinged, traditional New York penthouse apartment. In the bedroom seating area shows off an outstanding art collection-- a Klimt hangs above a French mantel.

In the same Maryland home, a George III style shield back chair plays off a Bagues crystal sconce in a hallway.

An antique Aesthetic Movement octagonal library table in a New York apartment works well with an inset dark bookcase, proving dark ebony and a light birds eye maple can coordinate successfully.

A classic 1930's Neo-Georgian Palm Beach house sits on magnificent curve along Ocean Boulevard and belonged to Estee Lauder. The landmark house got a freshening from Hayes. The Lauder family works with him frequently, and his ability to mix design eras is seen here.

The entry foyer welcomes with a black and white marble floor, 1930's Venitian glass globe and matching demi- lune tables. Soft yellow walls offset the graphic floor pattern.

A relaxed and tropical living room plays into the 1930's period without being kitchy.

In the Lauders Florida dining room, Gracie painted wallcovering, a deco mirror, Neo- Classical mantel and 1930's Venetian glass chandelier allows for formal entertaining at its best.

By working with history, a restored 1950's kitchen is all out authentic. The latch pull fridge doors, cabinetry and stools are key touches. Even the stove has a diamond patterned stainless steel back splash, a nod to the classic American diner.

If you are working in a particular vernacular, go with it! A Citrus bright tropical leaf Second Hand Rose wallpaper with original graduated leg sink are , 1950's through and through. It is Florida after all.

The perfect view out onto the Atlantic and hot pink vintage shell backed chairs.

Photos Courtesy of Rizzoli
I had to show this insanely gorgeous bathroom. A 1930's vibe comes from large swaths of pink marble, no cornice detail and a girly, French antique crystal orb. Make bath time a luxury.

MAJOR STEAL! HIT ONE KING'S LANE NOW FOR THESE GREAT MIRRORS

2009-09-16T10:38:00.005-05:00

Every time I get my email blast from One King's Lane I am amazed at the finds. They get the best brands, smaller artisans, and gather chic home goods from near and far, offering them for recession friendly prices. How do they do it?! More on that later. For now, check out Mirror Image's sparklers that are too good to pass up. The sale ends September 19th at 11am so shop away!
Octagonal Mirror in Tortoise
Petal Framed Mirror
Gilded Fifties-style Octagonal Mirror
Photos Courtesy of OKL
Espresso Fifties- style Octagonal Mirror

RESTORATION HARDWARE IS LOOKING GOOD

2009-09-14T20:29:00.002-05:00

The other night in New York, Restoration Hardware staged a comeback. They launched their Artisan Collection in The Flatiron Gallery, a gallery/retail lab located within their 22nd Street store. The vignettes shown are at the store, which will serve as their flagship for the Artisan roll out. Gary Friedman, Resto's CEO, handpicked furniture, lighting, and bedding artisans that would bring their dynamic perspectives, global sourcing, materials and finishes to the American retailer. British, Italian, American, Dutch and Turkish designs converge in what I hope will be a major reboot for the company. If you don't have a fall shopping trip planned, visit the web or a catalog to get your Belgian fix.

The collection of over seventy- five pieces is rough luxe meets Belgian chic. I can't mention the look without giving a nod to the one that started it all, Axel Vervoort. Greige finishes, natural leather and light woods round out the new offerings. In this shot, the Mayfair Steamer Secretary Trunk designed by British designer Timothy Oulton opens to the Leather Buckle Chair. Sitting nearby, the Printmakers sideboard made of aged pine is great for storing files and unframed art.

In the dining room moment, the Flatiron Trestle Table is surrounded by Vintage French Round Oak Dining Chairs in a distressed finish. A French Casement Sideboard works well for storing serving pieces, linens and extra cookbooks. They were designed by Luay Al-Rawi from the Netherlands, bringing his reclaimed materials and aged finishes a retail presence. Dutch design and its influence signals a relaxed, less fussy lifestyle. The Filament Chandelier adds a pared-down industrial, architectural element to the mix.

Photos from Restoration Hardware
Restoration also tapped Mark Sage and Rudi Nijjsen of Bobo Intriguing Objects, a gift show favorite. The American/Belgian designing duo met in Belgium after selling antiques, and in five years, have created a following for their iconic, signature reproduction rustic pieces. Best known is their chandelier made of aged wine barrel staves. They put Belgian linens and aged woods back on the map. The enveloping French Wing Chair shown above is based on an antique and has been modified in scale for comfort. It sits in front of the Corbel Glass Desk, a teak piece topped with glass. The St. James 11 Drawer Dresser can handle storing the big stuff.

ANOTHER GREAT ANTIQUE AND DESIGN STORE CLOSING: MYRTLE IN NYC

2009-09-10T15:11:00.004-05:00

Photo by Josh Gibson
One of my favorite shops, Myrtle, at 245 East 60th Street, is closing. Michelle Prentice, a terrific traditional interior designer, opened her shop to sell hand- picked antiques with clean lines from Ireland, England and the states. She also carried pretty, one of a kind silk and linen pillows and unusual lamps. The shop was a welcome addition to the design district, an antique laden stretch near the D and D Building, and it was a place where the finds were always all chic. With the natural grass cloth walls and soft green window panels, the place felt like a chic apartment. The landscape is changing, and I hope the other area shops can hang tough. On the upside, Michelle is busy with interior design clients and projects, creating beautiful homes.

WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU AMANDA NISBET? FABRICS AND LIGHTING

2009-09-09T14:30:00.017-05:00

Color, shock and awe! Since 1998 New York based family- friendly decorator Amanda Nisbet has been infusing interiors with color and a joie de vivre. It is not unusual to see fuscia silk and a chartreuse woven paired together to great effect. Her color sensibility, attention to how the client really lives and exuberant details come together in rooms that are fantastical and uplifting. When you meet Amanda you realize this exuberance is who she is, and her joyful personality can't help but manifest itself in her interiors!
She recently launched a capsule lighting collection, & Lighting with Urban Electric and fabric line called & Textiles, with Holland and Sherry. The color saturated collection of print and woven fabrics include patterns with graphic geometrics, circles, watercolor brushstrokes, and stylized flowers. With showrooms in New York, Chicago and DC, her fans will have to seek out samples, but they will be glad they did, the results are shown below.

HOLLAND AND SHERRY FABRICS

Francesca in Berrylicious

Francesca in Blueberry Crumble

Positano Silk in Kumquat

Airdrie Silk in Bluebell

Airdrie Silk in Blueberry

Chip in Tuttu Frutti

Chip in Citrus

Chip in Cornflower

Chip in Fiddlehead

Chip in Cherry

Annie in Beautyberry

Annie in Plum

Annie in Fiddlehead

Annie in Limone

Annie in Cherry

Pizetta in Raspberry

Allanah 2 in Blueberry Pepper

Allanah 2 in Raspberry Pitaya

Allanah in Pitaya

Maderia in Beatyberry

Maderia in Rutebaga

Maderia in Fiddlehead

Maderia in Limone

Maderia in Cherry

URBAN ELECTRIC LIGHTING

Dramatic Gothic looking pendants kick it up a notch with hot pink candlesticks.

The Allanah wall sconce of cerused oak backed with her signature chainlink motif in antique brass has staggered candles giving a mod feel.

All photos courtesy of Amanda Nisbet Design
The red painted metal Anna Leah standing lamp is reminiscent of a DNA model and seems to stay upright while looking as though it might spring up further at any moment.

CHICAGO DESIGNER ANNE COYLE INTRODUCES HER FESTIVE CANDY COATED COLLECTION OF FURNITURE

2009-09-02T17:30:00.001-05:00

Photos Courtesy of Anne Coyle
Chicagoan Anne Coyle has recently launched a furniture line called Candy Coated. Oftentimes interior designers know what they want but just can't seem to find it. I applaud her for bringing her vision to the marketplace. Coyle likes to keep things clean and classic and feels that "there are times when a traditional curvy piece feels wrong, and a sharp edged, modern piece doesn't feel right either. We wanted to produce pieces that would feel right anywhere, and compliment a large range of furniture styles. The simplicity of the forms makes them almost "basics" , but the colors are what make them special. The idea of the "candy coated" came from both the happy, vibrant colors of the pieces, and also the hard shiny lacquer applied, which makes a shiny coating evocative of lollipops, hard candies, M and M's etc..." The collection, made in Chicago, is available through her Chi town showroom located at 2041 W. Wabansia Avenue, and on her website.

Faux snakeskin coffee table. Offered in a 4 different colors.

The rich color is girly and a perfect French moment when mixed with a zebra rug and sexy low chairs.

The Deconstructed Credenza makes bare wall space functional while breaking up shelf options.

The Conrad Table has a high lustre finish and crisp shape.

Her Companion Table is offered with a bottom and a shelf or without. It is bold yet clean which makes is a modern classic.

The red version is sharp.

The Companion Monogrammed Table in Aluminum leaf finish has storage galore.

Her Cube in electric orange works well next to low pieces and adds 60's pop.

A Console of clean lines is calling out for two great lamps and a stack of books.

The China Town Cabinet combines a classic Chinoiserie pediment with a clean base free of molding. The result is crisp and functional.

More room to store!

The rest of Anne Coyle's showroom displays well edited vintage pieces.

A neutral seating area with her upholstery makes her showroom a relaxed place to visit and stay awhile.

I am sure this little cutie makes a wonderful greeter!

BERMINGHAM AND COMPANY HAS IKATS COVERED

2009-08-28T14:45:00.010-05:00

If you are in New York or have plans to visit, make sure you stop by Bermingham and Company at 243 East 60th Street. In addition to having nicely scaled, pretty antiques, they have the Ikat market cornered, offering over 100 ikat designs in glorious colors. Ikats were traditionally woven in Uzbekistan as clothing fabrics, so the widths were narrow. Most silk widths are between 16 and 18 inches wide, with a few available that are up to 27 inches. Bermingham is one stop shopping since they have their own workroom, where they can turn out pillows, festive lampshades, headboards and upholstery. Designers can decide to match the seams or not, depending on the whether they want the random pattern or matching design. A burst of color makes a neutral interior more lively and ikat gives your home that de rigeur global glamour.

The wall o' Ikats is like standing in front of candy jars at a Penny Candy Store. What should I get?!

Rich jewel tones and brights mean endless options

The circle pattern is a favorite of mine for its clean design and pop of color against the white ground. Their drum shades fly out the door

The square shade is a unique shape, and it gives any lamp a new lease on life

Pillows tossed on a floral sofa would add a kicky jolt

Contrast border colors tie a room scheme together

SPIN THE COLOR WHEEL

I recommend starting with the rug when doing a room scheme-- in this case, bring in some great textural wovens to make the ikat pattern the star.

An antique chair upholstered in a soft ikat is ready to go