hampton hostess

HAMPTON DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE DIARY

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 14:25:00 +0000

photo by Eric Stiffler

I'm so excited to share with you all my room for this year's Hamptons Designer Showhouse sponsored by Traditional Home. It's such an honor to be chosen to participate and I was thrilled to be asked to design the dining room for the house.

Color inspiration for the room came from the Atlantic ocean and bucolic farmland that surrounds the Hamptons. I chose various shades of ocean blue punctuated by green as the color scheme for the room.

When it comes to designing a room for a showhouse, it really does "take a village" and I was privileged to work with some fabulous partners. Beacon Hill provided me with fabric for the room and their glamorous Sakura stripe in Neptune was the starting point for my design. I love this print! The awning stripe, a summer classic, is elevated in glamorous silk with shades of ocean blues and white.

I covered a lucite bench in Robert Allen's Perfect Wave in Calypso blue-- a whimsical print with the perfect beachy vibe.

The room, shown below in a "before" photo has a large bay window and a pretty coffered ceiling but it needed some color!

Phillip Jeffries Juicy Jute in Tantalizing Teal had just the right pop of color for the walls.

The textured grasscloth has a beautiful sheen that reflects the rooms natural light and adds depth and texture.

Pratt and Lambert's November, a subtle blue-gray paint color with a slight glaze added dimension to the coffered ceilings.

There's so much more to go over! Next post will feature furnishings, lighting and art-

TRENDING-- WALLPAPERED CEILINGS ON THE RISE

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Sat, 28 Feb 2015 17:52:00 +0000

Lacquered, wainscotted and stenciled, ceilings have gone from flat to fabulous bringing the eyes upward making "the fifth wall" decors latest star. Kelly Wearstler kick started the trend by featuring her bold and graphic designs on top. Her graphic stripes, bold geometric designs and whimsical spatter's have graced the ceilings of stars like Cameron Diaz bringing an added layer of energy and artistic elegance to the room.

Wearstler's mod and playful girl's bedroom

Love the horizontal lines juxtaposed with swirled granite

Cameron Diaz's muted bedroom gets a boost from gold caned wallpaper

Malachite on the ceiling? Yes! Shelly Johnstone Pashke has embraced the trend with gorgeous results.

Muted wallpaper balances the rich lacquered walls.

Cole & Sons Hicks wallpaper looks gorgeous paired with blue kitchen cabinets

I'm ready to jump on the trend. My latest design project includes a sitting room layered with texture in soothing shades of cream and white. The element of surprise? A wallpapered ceiling-bold and graphic or subtle and sophisticated? I'll keep you posted...

VALENTINE CRUSH-I HAVE MORE THAN ONE

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 05:20:00 +0000

A heart shaped box of chocolates, always delicious, but where's the surprise? Get hearts racing with one of my Valentine crushes-

Bodacious Lips red skimmer slippers from Stubbs and Wootton will set hearts aflutter.

Rouge Louboutin-a stiletto topped bottle of red lacquer to match the bottom of your Louboutins, naturally.

Delicate Peonies by Aerin are sure to make a lasting impression.

Big on bling-Kara Ross + Donald Robertson's edgy leather tote is the ultimate go to accessory.

Just sayin'-love this 14K necklace from Jennifer Meyer.

Add a little bubbly to the bath--Lush's Lonely Heart bath fizz is really the bomb!

MY DATE WITH KATE AND WILLIAM

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 13:51:00 +0000

The GORGEOUS couple

During their recent whirlwind three day visit, Kate and William squeezed in dinner with moi. OK, there were a few others there, 450 to be exact--but it felt intimate and very special.

Prince William's Place Setting

Shhhh! I was one of a handful that knew the Prince and Princess would be traveling to to New York to celebrate the 600th Anniversary of St. Andrews nearly 14 months ago but couldn't tell anyone. As part of the St. Andrews parents benefit committee, (my daughter CeCe attended) we were a group of about twenty that worked on planning the gala benefit and were sworn to royal secrecy.

Kate and Will St. Andrews Graduation Day

As you may know, Kate and William met and fell in love at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. With the 600th Anniversary approaching, they wanted to do something special for the school (and help fund the University's endowment) with a gala in NYC. We knew a party at the Metropolitan Museum would be spectacular, and it was.

St. Andrews Grads in their traditional red robes holding ribbons to keep us back!

Cocktails were held in the Mets Great Hall, the majestic entry to the museum. Its a neoclassic work of art with three immense domes and a series of grand arches--the perfect reception area to greet a Prince and Princess. Cocktails had a decidedly Scottish flair with a whiskey tasting bar and mini Scottish haggis puffs. I went Continental with a glass of French champagne and a cavier blini.

Me glammed up and waiting...

With a flurry of paparazzi bulbs and a regal announcement Kate and Will were lead through the room in a small procession. St. Andrews graduates in their red robes greeted them on each side as they made their way down the hall. While photos were forbidden, most of us couldn't help sneaking our iPhone out and taking a quick shot or two as they made their way in.

Kate charmed the pants off Anna Wintour and Mary Kate Olsen

Kate was simply radiant in a midnight blue pleated gown with her hair swept up in a side chignon that showed off her emerald and diamond chandelier earrings.

Anna and Kate dishing at the bar

You absolutely need a bag pipe player

Princess Eugenie made the party too.

Dinner was held in the Temple of Dendur. It's an imposing and glamorous space even in the light of day. At night with dramatic lighting, jewel toned flowers and bag pipers in their tartan it was warm, intimate, spectacular.

I loved working on the rooms table decor. We kept it traditional with a St. Andrews plaid topper which covered a gold silk tablecloth. Flowers in golds and deep reds were layered on the table and added warmth and glamour to the room.

Kate and William's table post party

William's speech touched on his fondness for the University, it's traditions and of course, the fact that he met his future wife there--he was funny and charming!

A perfect ending to the evening: Kate was presented with a baby St. Andrews red robe for her future prince or princess!

Something Gave At The Something's Gotta Give House

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 14:26:00 +0000

I recently received a call from a friend about an estate sale that was being held at the fabled "Something's Gotta Give" house in Southampton. The movie has become a classic--not just because it features A-list actors Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson, but because so many people have fallen in love with the "quintessential Hamptons beach house" where the movie took place.

Home today

The stunning oceanfront built in 2000 resides on tony Meadow Lane in Southampton and has quite a loyal fan base. Charming and picturesque, the estate features a sloped roof line, wooden shingles and expansive porches, perfect for summer drinks. The kicker of course is the priceless beachfront vista (well almost priceless, it recently sold for 41 million.)

Ocean front views

The interiors, designed for the 2003 movie by Beth Rubino, strikes just the right note of class and comfort. Beautiful transom windows and custom wood paneled walls painted a soft white sets the tone for one of the most loved and lusted living rooms. A pair of sea glass blue slip covered sofas house a collection of billowy pillows. Soft lighting from table lamps and an enormous tufted ottoman filled with candles, books and and a cashmere throw lend a cultivated elegance to the room. Even the sea blue striped dhurrie (which is now housed in my bedroom-see story here) adds a thoughtful contrast to the muted palette. The room is stylish and welcoming--a put your feet up, have a glass of rose and stay a while kind of room that is instantly relatable. I think what appeals most is that this "staged" room doesn't feel staged at all. Yes, I'm a big fan!

Iconic living room

Dining Room

Movie set kitchen

Actual kitchen

Back to the estate sale, which was scheduled to take place on a Friday-Saturday. I knew that anything worth buying would be scooped up within the first few hours and I arrived about an hour into the sale with about one hundred people milling about. While I knew the interiors for the movie were filmed mostly on a Hollywood soundstage, I was hoping for a chance to walk through the house and see if it still had the same elegant beach vibe I had long admired.

Cosy nook in the movie

Room photos from estate sale

I was disappointed--the exteriors where unchanged from the movie, but the interiors were lackluster. The second floor bedrooms were taped off as was the first floor master. We were relegated to the living room, dining room and kitchen which were filled with mismatched one-offs, dark carpets, heavy furniture and bric-a-brac waiting to be sold.

I guess its true--you can never go back!

Super Moon-Super Color

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 14:19:00 +0000

Last night's epic Harvest moon, with its bold burst of orange and apricot hues reminds me once again how vital nature is as a inspiration to both fashion and interior design.

One of my favorite fashion designers, Naeem Khan, channeled a summer sunset in his 2014 Spring collection.

From salmon to cinnabar, you can turn up the volume and make a statement with orange or add subtle peach highlights to a room with the added benefit that the color makes everyone's skin look fabulous!

I'm so enamored with the color that I used Beacon Hills gorgeous Silk Lantern in a showhouse dining room earlier this year. Voluminous ballroom curtains were paired with muted gray for a fresh, modern twist.

Amanda Nisbet paired her nature inspired tree floor lamp with lush orange curtains.

Katie Ridder's exotic bathroom features an cinnabar hued wallpaper.

A bright orange banquette plays off deep blue lacquered walls in a room by Miles Redd.

SOUTHAMPTON SUMMER MIRAGE

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 01 Sep 2014 14:40:00 +0000

My friend Chesie has a flair for entertaining and in the summer months her creative acumen is on fire. An invitation to lunch poolside in Southampton could include a scene from Tuscany complete with rustic Italian platters filled antipasto and fresh Montauk grilled fish or you may find yourself transported to the South of France, bottles of crisp Rose chilling next to a summer bouillabaisse and Hotel Costes music wafting in the background. It's always beautiful and completely transportive.

Earlier this summer she called me giddy with news, "I have something new for the summer, its a tent from India and its fabulous!" A Saturday lunch was quickly arranged. Chesie greeted us at the gate looking fetching in a flowing pink caftan, arms filled with thin gold bangles from India. As we made our way down the winding garden steps, a majestic, Maharaja worthy tent came into view--utterly spectacular, regal in fact, with bands of pink and golden stars it felt like we stumbled into a stunning mirage.

The tent was imported from India, completely custom made to Chesie's specifications, in a happy pink with whimsical gold tassels and lush embroidery.

Large enough for a sleek sectional and luncheon table, the tent is perfect for summer entertaining.

Her table was gorgeous--hot pink with touches of orange. The gold chargers and turquoise Foo dogs elevate the table to summer spectacular!

Needless to say, it was a fun and very memorable lunch--I wonder what she has in store for next summer?

Wishing you much happiness this Labor Day!

DIVINE DIANE VON FURSTENBERG FOR KRAVET

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 23 Jun 2014 14:35:00 +0000

Innovator, iconoclast, design icon; Diane von Furstenberg is all of these and so much more. With her introduction of the wrap dress in 1974, DVF launched a design empire and changed the direction of fashion. Now add "interior design guru" to her vast list of accomplishments with the launch of her new fabric Collection for Kravet.

I recently had the privilege to meet DVF at a cocktail party held at the Kravet NYC Showroom which introduced her new line of bold, color infused fabric designs.

Dynamic and vivacious, Diane told the audience that she always wanted to create a fabric Collection--what a natural progression for this textile driven designer!

Design board for the new collection-her love of large scale graphics are clearly evident in this line infused with vibrant colors

Cumulus features a happy combo of her signature "beet" and orange.

The designer's fondness for bold animal prints come to life in Funk Zebra

Named for the infamous 1980's dance club, "China Club" is a fearless update on a black and white a geometric print.

What's next for DVF? A reality show on E! slated for November. If its anything like the rest of her projects, its destined to be a success!

READY FOR MY CLOSE UP

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 14:28:00 +0000

Designing a room for a Showhouse is the ultimate adventure for an interior designer. You are the client and the space is yours to design and build--its a designer's chance to channel her dreams and inspiration and create a space for the perfect client, you! I've always wanted my own sitting room, a sophisticated, girly room where I can write, relax and dress without the inevitable audience of kids and dogs. I chose to design a sitting room at the Designer Showhouse of NY using my favorite soft blue hue and furnishing it with a mix of antiques and modern luxuries.

The carpet, a gorgeous silk and wool combo from The Rug Company is the ultimate indulgence--its Kelly Wearstler's "Flaunt," an eclectic mix of bold blue streaks on a creamy background.

I staged the space with my killer Ralph Lauren platforms-perfect night on the town dancing heels!

Every room needs a touch of whimsy. This brass whippet from Flessas Design is so chic and won't leave footprints on the rug!

The desk is all out glam-Delphine from Jonathan Adler outfitted with an antique painted Empire chair from Lee Calicchio Ltd. The curtains are blue silk trimmed in a gorgeous tape, both from Highland Court.

To me, the ultimate in girly glamour is a big, beautiful ottoman. I custom designed this tufted poof in blue velvet from Robert Allen and made it 42", big enough to lounge and catch up on reading!

The gilded Chinese Chippendale etagere fits the side wall perfectly and houses favorite books and mementos.

Luxe fur pillows add texture and drama to a wall of Intaglio prints. Plain Jane doors were panelled and modern door pulls installed to complete the room.

Visit me at Barbara Page Home to see more!

Designer Showhouse of New York at the W Hotel Residences

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 16 May 2014 14:11:00 +0000

The Designer Showhouse of New York, to benefit Lenox Hill Hospital,is opening today in Manhattan's Financial District and I'm so thrilled to be one of the designers chosen to participate in this inaugural event. The showhouse is housed in the luxe W Hotel Residences, a tower of hotel condos located above the uber chic W Hotel. And the views! Located on the 55 and 56th floors, the condos offer spectacular vistas of some of NYC's most iconic sites-the Freedom Tower, the Sept. 11 Memorial, the Statue of Liberty and Empire State building.

Each of the 20 designers was given a room to design--mine, a 11' x 17' bedroom with enviable 14' ceilings and sweeping views inspired me to design a glamorous, serene sitting room with luxurious touches; velvets, silks, brass, mirrors and a touch of mink all made it into the rooms final design.

Every room design needs a vision, whether its a favorite color, painting, even a piece of jewelry, you need something to draw your room inspiration and design from. My sitting room features an elegant 9' gilded and painted mirror that is the true star of the room. It began as a set of 10' door panels that were part of the Jayne Wrightsman estate in Palm Beach.

The door frame panels were from the room featured on the cover of The Wrightsman Galleries For French Decorative Arts book, a spectacular room with obvious references to the Versailles Palais.

Jayne Wrightsman is an American philanthropist and fine arts collector, best know as one of the greatest benefactors of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a close friend of the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis whom she mentored during the monumental 1961-63 restoration of the White House. The Wrightsman Galleries for French Decorative Arts at the Metropolitan Museum showcases the Museum's renowned collection of 17th and 18th C. French furniture and related decorative arts pieces—many of which have a royal provenance. Its an dazzling exhibit and definitely worth a visit.

The door panels were given to me nearly 20 years ago when much of the estate in Palm Beach was sold. They have sat in wooden crates since, until recently when we pulled them out and decided they would make an extraordinary mirror.

The project was easier said than done--the ornamental plaster moldings were so delicate that they had to be removed for transportation and then reapplied during installation.

The result--a piece of history redefined and the genesis for my room!

More Showhouse to come!

Design Crush-Hotel N'vY Geneva

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 23:02:00 +0000

It's the kids spring break and with my two older kids studying in London and Scotland respectively, we decided to cross the pond this year and hit the slopes in Courchevel France. We would all be meeting up in Geneva first, my eleven year old and I spending the night before at the Hotel N'vY, (like envy) a chic boutique hotel a little off the beaten path in downtown Geneva but definitely worth a visit.

We arrived at night to a bustling modern lobby filled with cosy, mod seating areas, fantastic art on display and house music playing softly in the background. There was a shocked smile of approval from my daughter who seemed surprised I found such a hip place to stay. Ok, I was a little shocked I found such a cool place to stay too. We took the elevator up to our room, spacious and modern, furnished with Frette linens and robes, Etro bath products and an amazing sound system--really the perfect home away from home.

Famished after our flight went down to the lounge area and ordered delicious $35 hamburgers and a $22 vodka for mom. Geneva is so expensive! The hotel resident DJ played great house music and we stayed in the lounge for a while unwinding from our trip and admiring some of the impressive art at the hotel. N'vY is known for their spectacular collection which permeates every area of the hotel, from celebrated graffiti artist Meres One to Thierry Guetta, aka "Mr. Brainwash", a French urban artist now living in the US.

Back up to our room and ensconced in our terry robes my daughter remarked that she could get used to N'vY...me too!

FIFTH AVENUE STYLE: HOWARD SLATKIN

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 15:10:00 +0000

Celebrated Interior Designer Howard Slatkin certainly knows how to host a dinner party. From the moment you enter his elegant foyer, a stunning jewel box with references to Peter the Great's summer palace in Peterhof, you are taken with his striking sense of style. A row of Slatkin's legendary scented candles are artfully arraigned on a rare French console and tight bouquets of lily of the valley blooms reflect the light off an antique Venetian mirror. The room is a feast for the senses and a prelude to the rest of his exquisite, sprawling Fifth Avenue abode.

The sign of a great entertainer, Howard's low key, genteel demeanor instantly puts guests at ease, offering champagne in antique etched crystal flutes along with every one's favorite cocktail nibble, pigs in a blanket, nesting on an antique English silver tray.

I've had the pleasure of dining with Howard at his home on several occasions and those nights remain memorable both for the host's impeccable attention to detail and the sheer fun of the evening. Howard embraces the beauty of his environment and celebrates his home, sharing the joy that it brings to him with his guests.

Slatkin's new book, Fifth Avenue Style, (Vendome Press, 2013) is an homage to his fabulous Fifth Ave. abode. The book takes readers on an intimate tour of his sanctuary and chronicles the nearly three year renovation of the space creating most certainly one of the most luxurious, refined homes in Manhattan today. Lush photography highlights the exquisite details of each space as Howard walks us through the rooms, carefully detailing each exquisite design element, from choice of fabric and trims to the careful positioning of electrical outlets. The prose is informative and approachable, peppered with delightful anecdote's and a wealth of design information.

Having experienced Howard's legendary hospitality firsthand, I was thrilled to see special attention given to his impressive French Empire inspired dining room, a gorgeous confection of flora and fruit themed carved walls and a remarkable hand painted ceiling. It is both lavish and intimate; a space made for celebrations. Several pages of vignettes are devoted to his impressive collection of antique china, crystal and table linens; as Slatkin muses, "We all eat, so why not make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate?"

Dining room inspiration included Raphael's Loggia at the Vatican and a French Empire Savonnerie carpet.

Chinese export Imari-style plates are set for the first course.

18th century plates in a spring time pattern celebrate the season.

A living room niche is home to a custom silk velvet banquette and flock of porcelain aviary.

A serene and elegant gallery welcomes guests.

The guest suite channels a dreamy secret garden with a fanciful French Empire steel and gilt bronze canopy of Indian printed scarves and walls covered in 18th century Chinese wallpaper.

Fifth Avenue Style is fabulous for so many reasons; it's a coveted view inside a majestic Manhattan home, but it's really Howard's ability to create an intimate living space with rooms meant to celebrate and share with others that make Fifth Avenue Style so stellar.

SETTING HEARTS AFLUTTER

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 10 Feb 2014 15:03:00 +0000

LOVE, Robert Indiana, 1967.

While I'd never turn my nose at a box of Valentine chocolates, there are so many stylish gifts that celebrate the day of love, why stop at salted caramels? Get creative--toast the holiday with a delicious glass of rose champagne and present your loved one (or maybe yourself!) with one of my favorite gifts for the Valentine's Day-

Sweet Tart--whimsical Peron Hearts peep toe pump give a stylish nod to the holiday and beyond.

Sugar, Sugar-Inspired by those yummy Necco wafer candies, the ultra thin Waif Coaster set is made of French enamel coated copper and comes in a delicious palette of sweet pinks and dark colas.

Circle of Love-a darling needle made macarame lace heart bracelet from Cruciani, the renowned heritage Italian lace making house, the perfect gift for your little sweet thing.

Shaken, not stirred-The James Bond Archives, the ultimate book on all things Bond for your dashing guy; enough said.

Red Hot- spice up your LBD or white tee and jeans with these whimsical double rose earrings from Oscar de la Renta.

THE WINTER ANTIQUES SHOW

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 31 Jan 2014 15:25:00 +0000

Andrew Wyeth, The Prussian, 1973 at Jonathan Boos

Featuring the "Best of the Best" from antiquities through the 1960's, The Winter Antiques Show is a must see for both collectors and admirers. I was invited to view the show during its last pre-opening hours earlier this week at the Armory while final touches were being made to the stylish booths of the 73 exhibitors. Gorgeous vignettes featuring Americana, English, European and Asian decorative and fine arts are on display punctuated by several new dealers with a trend towards Modernism.

Maison Gerard is a personal favorite of mine. The dealer specializes in fine French Art Deco furniture, lighting and objects d'art. The pieces featured at the Armory are gorgeous representations of the period with inlaid marquetry, sinuous lines and rich exotic woods.

Gerda Wegener Art Deco Window, France, circa 1925 Maison Gerard, New York NY

A rare screen by Art Deco master Jean Dunand, considered to be the greatest lacquer artist of the period was a highlight of Maison Gerard, so whimsical and tres chic!

Barbara Israel's booth was simply breathtaking. An exquisite collection of statues and garden antiques are staged against a lush waterfall backdrop.

Bold and beautiful Harry Bertoia's Devon Dunes,(1958) bronze and copper sculpture was part of a varied, impressive exhibit at Lost City Arts, New York, NY

A stunning Queen Anne Jappaned Secretaire Cabinet, circa 1710, Hyde Park Antiques

Tiffany and Co. Diamond Stars and Moons necklace, by Jean Schlumberger

Exquisite pieces from Tiffany, Graff, Chanel and Bulgari are on display in celebration of the 60th Diamond Jubilee of the show.

The Winter Antiques Show benefits East Side House Settlement and runs through February 2, 2014 at the Armory.

YEAR OF THE HORSE

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 17:59:00 +0000

This Chinese New Year celebrates The Year of the Horse, and what better way to honor this magnificent athlete than through a collection of horse prints by noted photographer Bob Tabor.

Arrestingly beautiful, Tabor's work is graphic, intense and filled with raw emotion.

“The mass of a horse’s body becomes a sculpture when it’s bathed in natural light" said Tabor.

Tabor's horse photographs reflect a unique intimacy and showcase the horses spirit and gentle power.

I love the prints large scale and bold graphics which brings an emotional intensity and singular beauty to a room.

Tabor's work can be found in private collections and galleries across the US as well as at Mecox Gardens.

photos courtesy of Bob Tabor.

Somethings Gotta Give

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 13:13:00 +0000

Amanda Peet and the ubiquitous Zabar's bag heading to the Hamptons.

It's with more than a touch irony that my last published post written (gasp!) two months ago was titled Hide and Seek. While not intentional, the title certainly foreshadowed my hiatus from blogsphere, my blogging friends and writing in general. I'm sorry I've been gone for so long but hope today's post, Somethings Gotta Give, answers the all important question--"Where have you been girl?"

I wish I had a big, sexy story to tell; it would be great to be able to tell you that I spent the last two months in St. Petersberg designing a spectacular dacha for an oligarch but it was really just life getting a little too crazy all at once--a flurry of work with two fabulous clients with Christmas deadlines and kids home for the holidays left me with little time, drive or imagination for writing. So I decided to give myself a free pass, the first in four years of writing Hampton Hostess, promising myself that I would return in the new year re- energized and ready to go. And so I'm officially back, linking my first post of 2014 with one of my first posts ever, (I Got Something From Somethings Gotta Give) a piece about Jack and Diane and the fabulous dhurrie rug I scored from the movie set of Somethings Gotta Give... It's great to be back!

Who wouldn't want a chair formerly occupied by two Oscar winning actors?

A big thanks to Cote de Texas for featuring photos of my bedroom in her post on the chic beachy striped rug yesterday. There is a fun story behind the rug that involves a fantastic charity event, the DDD (decorators, dealers and designers) that benefits the Southampton Fresh Air Home, a local charity. Held in June, the event features rooms of furniture and antiques donated by some of the most fabulous homes in the Hamptons. Designers and clients buy the expensive tickets for the event and line up at 5:00, waiting for the doors to oven at 5:30. When the doors open, a stampede of blue blazers and sundresses make their way at a heart racing pace through the rooms, buying nearly everything in their tracks.

Architectural Digest

In 2008, one of the rooms was entirely furnished with stunning furniture and decorative objects from the set of Something's Gotta Give, and as you might imagine, that room was a first destination for the design savvy crowd. By the time I got there, the English Country sofas, upholstered in delicate eggshell blue linen and the large mahagony coffee table were long gone. Lucky for me, no one seemed to look down and see the beachy blue striped cotton rug-bingo! I was also very fortunate to find a beautiful set of 12 delicate framed cameos in beautiful gold frames--a designer had decided not to buy them at the last moment and I was there to snatch them up. Tucked in a corner sat an unclaimed pretty Oly Studio Hannah chair and ottoman upholstered in raffia and cotton duck, also from the movie set.

There have been years when I've bought at auctions, caught in the heady buying frenzy, only to have a severe case of buyers remorse when I got the items home. But that did not happen with my fabulous finds from Something's Gotta Give--they were just perfect.

Bold stripes dominate the cotton dhurrie rug and compliment the beachy blue and beige color scheme.

The set of 12 cameo prints were broken into sets of 8 and 4, covering 2 walls in the sitting room. The tiny cameos make a big impression when grouped and hung in a grid pattern. The two black lacquered side tables are from Old Town Crossing in Southampton and the white duck love seat is from English Country Antiques.

Small and delicate, the cameos come to life in smart gold frames and beveled white matting.

Here's another favorite photo which shows how a grouping of small inexpensive photos can look spectacular when massed together on one wall.

Larger than life cameos hung closely together, make a big impression in this living room.

HIDE AND SEEK

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 13:49:00 +0000

Look at any well designed room and you will immediately notice the rug. Whether its a bold David Hicks inspired wool carpet or a luxurious silk solid, a carpet can set the tone and style for your room and provide a foundation for the rest of your furnishings. For the Designer Showhouse I was lucky to partner with Rug-Art a to the trade bespoke rug company in NYC. When I visited their showroom I knew that my room would house a white Milo Baughman table and gray walls--that was it. I was looking for something luxurious and beautiful, something that would add texture and make the room pop. That's when I saw a small sample of a mosaic hair on hide rug. I'd never worked with hair on hide before but found the palette of rich grays and natural textures irresistible.

The ancient mosaic pattern was transformed into something fresh and modern. The rug was a little short for the room so we added two gray hide rugs at either end to extend the rug line--I love the way the hides add a sculptural element to the room.

Close up of the room's rug

This contemporary room is anchored by a Hicks inspired hair on hide rug

Get the look for less with this Marquis wool rug

FINALLY FINISHED

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 14:09:00 +0000

Long Island Newsday-photo credit Uli Seit

The Home Is Where The Heart Is Designer Showhouse opened last Friday evening with a fabulous Gala reception. It was time to celebrate all our hard work and the great charity to benefit from the showhouse-The American Heart Association. I was drawn to participate in the showhouse because of this wonderful charity and the opportunity to design a room with beautiful bones and pedigree. Built in 1891 for Lydia Pratt, the home was a wedding gift from her father Standard Oil co-founder Charles Pratt, the Georgian style white clapboard home has gracious rooms and impeccable grounds.

All 25 rooms were in show ready condition; furnished, illuminated and accessorized to perfection. They looked incredibly beautiful. I can't wait to share my room and the other designers over the week!

Close up of my beautiful Milo Baughman parsons dining table and custom chairs--ready for dinner!

You always bring more than you will actually use--art, lamps, and for me an entire dining table that needed to be set and styled for an elegant dinner.

ILLUMINATION

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 13:12:00 +0000

Progress! I was excited to finally have all the light fixtures for my room ready to install and was able to wrangle the electrician yesterday to install the chandelier and sconces. The chandelier was graciously loaned to me from Francine Gardner at Interieurs in NYC. Francine has a fabulous atelier in Manhattan with a beautiful selection of globally inspired furniture and lighting, very chic. I originally met Francine through her blog Arte de Vivre, a homage to the full enjoyment of life that chronicles Francine's extensive travels, muses on life, food, decor and so much more. It's a must read!

The fixture is called Groix, a subtle gray chandelier covered in a gossamer shade. Its luminous and very beautiful. I knew that the shade was very delicate so I worked with the two electricians to get the light hung without any marks to the shade. It took forever but we got it up and I'm so happy with the results.

It's most common to hang chandeliers 30" above the table but I raised it an extra inch to 31".

Starting to lay the rug, a beautiful cowhide mosiac from Rug Art.

Working on the rest of the install today and all weekend--more photos to come!

Happy Weekend!

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A GRAY MAKES

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 11:37:00 +0000

Gray drag wallpaper from Farrow and Ball

We all know that a fresh coat of paint can transform a tired room. How about a little wallpaper? While wallcovering is definitely more of an investment, it can completely change the look of a room adding a element of texture to the walls, something that paint can't achieve.

Drag #1280

I was excited to partner with Farrow and Ball on the Showhouse dining room. Known for their rich, saturated paint hues, their wallpaper line features classic prints like acanthus, brocade and lattice patterns as well as modern bamboo and a cheeky ocelot print.

I decided to use a few of their recently introduced colors: moles breath, an earthy gray on the dining chairs and Wevet a soft white on the molding.

Wevet

Moles Breath

For the walls I chose a classic drag wallpaper in a deep gray. The paper instantly updated the room with soft texture leaving a sophisticated background, perfect for either traditional or modern decor.

before

after

We are installing the room this week. More updates to follow!

SPUTNIK STYLE

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 14:11:00 +0000

The 1st Dibs floor in the New York Design Center is one of my favorite design shopping haunts. The vendors showcase a curated and eclectic mix of antiques from the 19 C. to the 1980's, many with an emphasis on mid-century pieces. Even if your aren't in the market, there is great "eye candy" and design inspiration to be had.

I found myself drawn to the Sputnik chandeliers. One of the most quintessential mid-century light fixtures, the Sputnik light features a space-age star burst pattern with sleek, contemporary arms. Named for the 1950's Soviet satellite,the fixtures atomic-age design made it popular in the 50's and 60's and today's resurgence for Mid-century design has the darling Sputnik dangling from chic foyers and dining rooms everywhere.

If you can't make it to 1st Dibs, Jonathan Adler's Sputnik inspired chandelier is a classic take on this favorite.

DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE REDUX

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 04 Oct 2013 13:52:00 +0000

I've been having deja vu all week. Calls from painters ready to paint but the paint is missing. The thrill of finding a spectacular chandelier and having to wait to see if it's the right size and whether the shop would be willing to loan it to you. It's all part of the roller coaster ride that is a Designer Showhouse. That's right--showhouse number 2 just two months after my first showhouse has wrapped up! I'm proud to announce that I'm participating in the Home Is Where The Heart Is designer showhouse to benefit the American Heart Association.

The designer house is a mansion once owned by the Pratt family, one of the many gorgeous estates built in the early 1900's on Long Island's Gold Coast (think Great Gatsby). The mansion is an impressive classic colonial with gracious rooms set in a stunning park like setting.

I'm designing the dining room, a generous 21' x 25' room with four period French doors and a pretty black marble fireplace. It's a room made for celebrations and entertaining. Right now it looks tired, papered in a burgundy flocked paper that sings 1980, the room is ripe for a renovation.

My plan is to update the room, integrating a modern palatte of rich grays and persimmon with a sleek Milo Baughman dining table as the centerpiece while retaining the beautiful intetgrity of the space. It's a fun room to design and I'll be sharing the gorgeous fabrics by Beacon Hill and paint selections from Farrow and Ball on my next post. Until then, happy weekend--I'm off to find some lucite candlesticks!

FOUR FREEDOMS PARK

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Fri, 27 Sep 2013 13:22:00 +0000

I took a grown up field trip yesterday, an excursion that began with a luxury bus ride and ended with lunch at NYC club, there was not a rowdy kid or PBJ sandwich or in sight. I was invited to visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park located on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island by a dear friend on the Tree Trust Committee of the Central Park Conservancy. The Tree Trust is one of the many arms of the Conservancy and works to raise funds to care for the parks 22,000 trees by offering the endowment of a tree or sapling for a special occasion. It's a fantastic gift idea for milestone birthdays or anniversary that supports an amazing program within the Conservancy, and who wouldn't want their own tree in Central Park?

Back to our visit. Four Freedoms Park began in the late 1960s, during a period of national urban renewal, when New York City Mayor John Lindsay proposed to reinvent Roosevelt Island (then called Welfare Island) into a vibrant, residential community. Louis I. Kahn, one of the masters of 20th century architecture was chosen to design the park and memorial to Roosevelt. Louis Kahn finished his work and died unexpectedly and NYC faced bankruptcy causing the project to be sidelined. Nothing happened for decades but finally on March 29, 2010, 38 years after its announcement, construction of Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park began.

The Park celebrates the Four Freedoms, as pronounced in President Roosevelt’s famous January 6, 1941 State of the Union speech. The words appear on a massive block of granite-

Freedom of Speech and Expression – the best defense against the corruption of democracy.
Freedom of Worship – our shield against the forces of bigotry, intolerance and fanaticism.
Freedom from Want – so that hunger, poverty and pestilence can be erased from the earth.
Freedom from Fear – calling for international institutions and agreements that will keep the peace, control armaments, prevent aggression, accept the Rule of Law, and assure social justice.

The focal point of the Park is a 1,050-pound bronze bust of President Roosevelt.

Mounted in the sculpture niche, with the Four Freedoms engraved on its south-facing side, the bust stands sentinel at the entrance of what Kahn called the “Room”, a 60’ square open plaza of granite that looks out across the East River to the United Nations.

The Park's lawn is flanked on either side by 120 linden trees set in perfectly aligned allées.

The park is extraordinary; an austere, beautiful monument tucked into the NYC landscape and a great trip for the entire family.

SEXY CHAIRS

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 13:36:00 +0000

Long curvy legs, sleek lines and soft to the touch--I'm talking about sexy chairs! Now more than ever, the side chair has become glamorous design note featuring silver and gold appointments, luxurious fabrics and lots of curve appeal. Here are a few of my favorites:

The Rigby armchair by Kelly Wearstler features softly curved arms and back, a blackened steel base and custom bronze sabbots. It's sleek and so glamorous!

Watch out for the curves! The Cassandra chair by Celerie Kemble features a beautiful butterfly back and delicate legs.

No ordinary Greek Key--The Jay Slipper chair by Duane Moderne amps up the motif with a soft cushion rollback and sleek lacquer finish.

Totally tubular! The Teofilo armchair features a square tubular metal frame with mesh panels-modern with unexpected touches.

Check out those legs! Sculptural and sexy, the Giac chair Inspired by Alberto Giacometti, features a hand carved and cast arm chair with stiletto high legs and a soft roll back cushion.

Curved arms and a cut out back make the Corsetto armchair by Nest memorable from all angles.

Luxurious leather upholstery and bronze tubular legs give the Crillion chair modern appeal.

A classic endures- the Draper cafe side chair, based on the designs of the iconic decorator Dorothy Draper, features a spectacular carved back and delicate curves.

The Simplified Casino chair is anything but simple-a whimsical rolled top and petite arms give this classic chair fresh appeal.

GRAY DAY-FARROW AND BALL

noreply@blogger.com (HAMPTON HOSTESS) — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 13:55:00 +0000

It's cloudy and gray today with ominous clouds announcing that rain is on the way, the perfect day to talk about my favorite paint color, gray. I love gray paint--whether it's a soft chalky gray or deep, dark and moody, I always find a room or two that could do with a touch of gray. In my opinion, no one does gray better than Farrow and Ball, the luxury English paint and wallpaper company know for their beautiful, saturated hues and high quality paint. I stopped by the Farrow and Ball Showroom last week to pick up a new color chart and check out their Fall Color Collection which introduced nine new paint hues and included some pretty incredible grays.

My favorite new color is Moles Breath (how can you not love that name!)

Dark and rich, this color is stunning. I brought a pot home and am going to paint a set of dining room chairs-finger's crossed, I will let you know how it all turns out.

Wevet, named after the old Dorset term for spider's web, it's a delicate, soft gray.

Dimpse, a cooler, bluer gray is soft and elegant.

Lovely Ammonite was named after the fossils found off the coast of Dorsit.

A warmer gray, Purbeck Stone is a stronger neutral which resembles the stone found in the Isle of Purbeck.

What's your favorite gray?