Armory Week draws visitors to New York from all over the globe to participate in art fairs and exhibitions. In it’s 12th year, the Armory Show on the Midtown piers expanded to a size comparable with Art Basel / Miami Beach. Last year the Armory Show introduced a second pier for modern art dealers. The 211 contemporary and 74 modern galleries enjoyed great success as the art market rebounds. Evidence of this year’s success was the sale of an Edvard Munch landscape, which sold to a private collector by Faurschou Gallery from Copenhagen for $6 million.

For the first time this year the Armory Show presented limited edition artist-designed objects. Artware Editions exhibited several outstanding examples of artist-designed functional objects. Isafjorour by Icelandic artist Katrin Siguroardottir was a favorite.

Notably Armory Week also included an excellent exhibition from the Art Dealers Association of America Art. The ADAA Art Show in it’s 22nd year combined renewed art market confidence with museum-quality art from the late 19th century to contemporary art. Highlights included stunning works on paper by Louise Bourgeois at Cheim & Read. This large group of works on paper sold out, increasing credibility to market rebound claims. The 1960’s De Kooning paintings at both L&M Arts and Mitchell-Ines & Nash were a rare treat. Knoedler & Company had a large-scale Helen Frankenthaler on display in addition to exceptional works on paper available as a treat for the interested viewer.

On the contemporary front, Anthony Meier Fine Art presented the meditative and fiercely private cut paper miniatures by Jasmin Sian.

Educationally, the Armory offered lectures on several topics such as collecting contemporary art in the Middle East. That panel of artists, curators, and dealers spoke to concerns about market sustainability, academic support for art students, and developing a cultural context for narrative art in the larger global art community. The ADAA also offered an excellent panel discussion. Both art and finance experts addressed the theme, A Committed Vision: Collecting in the New Economy. The panel looked at a variety of issues related to collecting art in different economic climates, and the vision and dedication that marks the best art collectors and collections.

Concurrent with Armory week, the 2010 Whitney Biennial opened with a thoughtful exhibition of current trends in contemporary art while the New Museum offered a cluttered selection of the Dakis Joannou collection entitled Skin Fruit curated by Jeff Koons. The two shows could not be more different is content. The Whitney offers an introspective selection by accomplished artists such as Roland Flexner and Leslie Vance. The New Museum concentrated on shock value to create a mannerist view of the recent past. The best part of Skin Fruit is a haunting installation piece entitled All. These classically carved marble body bags by artist Maurizio Cattalan keep cycling back in my mind making intriguing links between war and ancient sculpture.

Patter Hellstrom is a San Francisco based artist whose abstract works on paper are exhibited by galleries in both New York and San Francisco. In addition to her art, she is also a business entrepreneur. Along with her partner Peter Zirnis on the east coast, they own Hellstrom+Zirnis LLC which works with developers and companies to curate and place art in public spaces.

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Keep reading to learn how designer Kathleen Hay creates crisp, clean, colorful spaces…painted with style and sophistication.

What do you consider to be the most significant design improvement of the last 10 years?

It is a tie between the flat screen TV and the iPod. Both of these technologies have changed the way we furnish houses. No longer is it necessary to incorporate a large armoire to hide an enormous television set, or to find a way to hide AV equipment: stereo, CD changer, large speakers, etc. Televisions are now often the centerpiece of the interior landscape. I recently completed a study that had three flat-screen TVs so that the couple could watch a favorite sports game while keeping any eye on the news or a favorite program. We will continue to see innovations in the tech field that will continue to keep designers on their toes.

Love these pillows? Click here to find out more about this gorgeous Duralee fabric!

What makes a particular design last? What ensures longevity?

Classic proportion and restrained color palettes are the two factors that most inform a lasting design. Symmetry and scale, when used in proper balance, will always be the key to longevity in design. As for color: neutral is never out. Good examples include: the architecture of Palladio, interiors and furniture by John Saladino, and the interiors, furniture, and fabric of design maven Barbara Barry.

Looking to create a living room? Start with these Duralee fabrics.

Is there a classic-a staple-that is always a part of your design…sort of a signature? What is it and what enables it to work in any environment?

Small cube-shaped (square) ottomans are a constant in my interiors. They are indispensable and utterly flexible. Two can tuck under an entry table to serve as an impromptu place to sit to put on your shoes, or under a console in a living room as extra seating. I have grouped four of them and used it as a comfortable coffee table/ottoman in a media room. I have also used them at the ends of beds for a handy luggage rack or place to put the pillows when it is time for bed.

20876 by Duralee

How have you used Duralee in the past and why did you select it?
I recently did a renovation on a boat. The boat is unique in that it was at one time a lobster trawler. We had to make choices on fabrics and materials that were durable and in keeping with the casual feeling of this particular boat. I used Duralee fabric #20876 and had it fabricated into a duvet cover in the master cabin. The bold black and white pattern is a perfect statement in the all white room and the fabric will hold up to the sun and sea air.

Why do you like to use Duralee products in your work?
Duralee offers so many options to the trade. Not only do they have a fantastic array of durable, solid, basic fabrics, but they have an amazing collection of designer fabric lines that enable interior designers to incorporate signature patterns into their room schemes. Best of all, Duralee has a full line of furniture: sturdy, well-built and constructed completely in the USA. Everything can be customized. I have recently begun to launch several of my own private label pieces of furniture with Duralee. I cannot say enough about this family-owned company. They are my first “go to” resource on all projects.

KATHLEEN’S FAVORITE DURALEE TEXTILES
20872 by Duralee	180856h by Duralee	180826h by Duralee	180825h by Duralee

20875-159 Dove by Duralee

Has a specific Duralee product served as an inspiration for a project?

I am so fond of the recent collaboration between Thomas Paul and Duralee. The patterns are iconic and eye-catching with color combinations that are fresh and new. I was recently taken by pattern #20875-159 a dove gray and yellow floral that is so pleasing. I planned an entire sitting room around the fabric and was able to find a yellow grasscloth wallcovering by Philip Jeffries to complete the scheme. It is a show stopper!

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Why do you think a well chosen paint color is critical to the success of a room design? What are the top 3 factors to take into consideration when choosing a paint color?

Paint color, or wall treatments of any kind, are the bones of a room. After the architecture of the space, paint is the single most important factor in setting tone and mood. Paint color is like a woman’s foundation: if it is wrong, it is glaring. The three factors to take into consideration when choosing the paint color are:

1) The light sources in the space. Are there a lot of exterior windows impacting the light in the room, or is the light mostly gained from fixtures and “unnatural” sources?

2) The use of the space-Is this going to be a room that is used in an active fashion or is it a space where you come to rest and restore?

3) The design materials being used in the room-the paint color needs to be chosen as
part of the total room schematic with the fabrics, rugs, and furniture taken into consideration. I
usually choose the paint color last in the process so that I can finesse the shade and color value to highlight and augment my room scheme.

What has been your recent favorite project and why?

I just finished an incredible summer estate on Nantucket. It is my favorite recent project for several reasons. Firstly, the clients are incredible people-generous of spirit with great taste. It was a pleasure collaborating with them. Secondly, the setting of the house is atop a dune overlooking the ocean. Need I say more?? The architecture of the house is simple, but grand. It commands attention without being overwrought. I was able to bring my vision to reality with clients that understood the process. The end result has been so satisfying.

What was your most challenging project and why?

My most challenging project has been a small renovation of two cottages. However, it is also one of my favorite projects. The challenge has come in the space planning and the need to make these two tiny spaces into a fully functioning summer residence for an extended family with many guests. We decided we had to think of the house as a ship. Small berths that are beautiful but incredibly functional. It has worked out well.

What are some tips for making a larger space appear cozy?

I have had to work with this challenge a good deal in the recent building boom where we saw a proliferation of large-scale houses. The reality is that families still want to feel a sense of togetherness and warmth, even in rooms that can fit 100 people. It is not an easy task, but it can be accomplished. First, I customize the furniture so that the scale is slightly larger (sofas are longer and deeper; coffee tables are amped up). I incorporate architectural details that add dimension to the room: paneled walls, wainscoting, coffered ceilings, generously proportioned crown moldings and baseboards. I find that using grasscloth or textured wall treatments will also add a layer of warmth to the space and make it more inviting. Window treatments are really important. Adding fabric to the windows helps to close in the room and make it a cozier space.

In your opinion, what makes a great room?

A successful room is one that has inviting “liveability”-a room that says, “Come in, sit down, and relax.” I like rooms that are sophisticated, but still retain a sense of comfort. Fabrics need to be soft to the touch, furniture needs to be comfortable, lighting needs to be soft and indirect. I also love rooms that have a surprise element: a color combination that might be new and different, or an innovative approach to the technological functions of the space, or a fabulous and unexpected collection or artwork.

Need a sophisticated neutral to compliment a pattern? Click here to see this Duralee Fabric.

What is the ultimate goal of all your projects?
A satisfied client mostly, but also a space for which I can be proud to claim as my design.

All photos courtesy of Jeffrey Allen - Jeffrey Allen Photography

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By Buzz Kaplan, Decorati Contributing Antiques Editor and author of The Buzz on Antiques, and Executive Director of Decorati manufacturer C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom in San Francisco.

A client of mine dropped by the other day and said, “Hey Buzz, do you have any of those French cupboards that have plate racks on the top and storage in the bottom?”

And I said, “Of definitely! Those are called um, uh, duh…well…I can’t remember what they’re called!” Yes, I had a senior moment (or in less polite company, a brain fart). Glad she didn’t ask me who the President is. Just kidding, I know it’s Herbert Hoover….

Anyhow, then I slapped myself (I rarely resort to violence but sometimes it’s necessary) and I suddenly I remembered: it’s called a VAISELLIER!

So I picked vaisselier as our word of the today because it’s tough to spell, hard to pronounce, and easy for me to forget (!).

A vaisselier, pronounced “veh suhl YAY”, is a cabinet typically used in modern dining rooms or kitchens that have open shelves on the top and a cupboard below, like this one:

But wait. Isn’t that a bed next to the vaisellier? Indeed it is. You very smart little grasshopper and here’s why: hundreds of years ago, people often only had one or two rooms in their homes and often a single room served as a bedroom, dining room, and even kitchen.

Hard to believe when these days people name their homes “Villa de Mansion” and think that 25,000 square feet is just right, now that the kids are gone.

Buzz Kaplan is a graduate of UCLA where he earned both Bachelor’s and Juris Doctorate degrees. Buzz began collecting antiques in the late 1970’s, while he was still practicing law and for the last 28 years has been a principal of Kaplan & Co., a consulting firm specializing in antique and other investment grade tangible asset collections. His clients have included dealers, major banks, foundations and other institutions seeking guidance in the acquisition and deaccession of 17th and 18th century European antiques as well as investment portfolios in gold, silver and platinum commodities. He is currently Executive Director of C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom in San Francisco.

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From the 19th century to the present, dresses have dramatically changed in variety, shapes and sizes. And with every designer’s collection each season, we are introduced to new patterns, cuts and hemlines for every occasion. While keeping current with fashion can be a challenge in itself, translating the collection of dresses into your closet can often times result in an organizational disaster! Here are a few tips to maintain and organize those beautiful pieces:

1. Remove all your dresses from your closet, and arrange according to type (e.g. summer, formal, evening, casual, work, etc.) Toss or donate those dresses you haven’t worn in 12 months!

2. Evaluate the layout of your closet. Are the hanging rods in the right locations and are they at appropriate hanging heights? First, take your measuring tape and determine the linear feet of dresses you own. If you have two feet of dresses, then set aside two feet of rod space in your new layout. Next, take your measuring tape and determine the height of your dresses. With these height measurements, you can now adjust the height of the hanging rods from the floor. The last thing you want is for the rods to be hung too low and for the long dresses to be dragging at the bottom. For long dresses, the hanging height is approximately 52 to 60 inches; for medium length dresses, this height is approximately 34 to 40 inches.

3. Determine where the dress section(s) will go. If your closet is small and you do not frequent the majority of your dresses, store them towards the “back” of your closet. Every day dresses should be stored in easily visible, reachable sections. Function is a priority when dealing with small spaces. However, if space is not an issue, my recommendation is to create a section that will highlight and display your beautiful, formal hanging dresses. To protect them from dust, I suggest putting these dresses in garment bags or enclosing this section behind doors.

4. Invest in hangers! Recycle plastic hangers or wire hangers from the cleaners because they can damage your clothing in the long run. I love these slim line notched chrome hangers. They are sturdy, slim to maximize space, and perfectly notched for straps. I would recommend these hangers for the majority of dresses with the exception of halter, sweater and formal dresses.

5. What to do with halter dresses? The best way to hang halter dresses is with hangers that clip onto the bust. Do not loop the halter over the neck of the hanger because the weight of the entire dress is centered on that one point, which ruins the dress. When using hangers with clips, make sure the clips are lined with tissue or felt to minimize the creasing from them.

6. What to do with sweater dresses? My rule is to always fold sweaters, regardless of type. Sweaters are very delicate, so when you’re folding them, insert a lavender or eucalyptus liner in between the folds to protect from unwanted moths and insects. However, if folding is not an option for your sweater dresses, then hang them on cushioned silk or satin hangers with repellant hanger covers.

7. What to do with formal gowns? Formal gowns should always be kept on thick coat cedar hangers for weight support and should be covered in garment bags.

8. Once all dresses have been separated and hangers have been changed out, determine how your dresses will go back into the closet. As I stated earlier, I suggest less frequently worn dresses toward the far-reaching areas of the closet (e.g. formal, evening and seasonal) and more regularly worn dresses in the easily accessed areas (e.g. work and casual).

9. Start putting each dress back into the closet, one by one, and sub-categorize them by dress length and color. Your closet should start looking much more pleasant - enough to feel like you are shopping right out of your closet!

Lisa Adams is the creative force behind LA Closet Design a full service firm offering personalized living spaces created to calm the chaos of everyday living.

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How would you describe your design style?

BOLD, WOW, FUN and Sophisticated.

Is there a classic-a staple-that is always a part of your design…sort of a signature? What is it and what enables it to work in any environment?

I love to create different looks, so I would hate to corner myself into a signature style. Yet, my design techniques and the principles applied are what remain consistent throughout my work. I would say my trademark is to create drama in a space but also to keep it as simple as possible. This requires me to be extremely selective with what I choose for an interior!

What makes a particular design last…what ensures longevity?

The best timeless designs are those which have incorporated the fundamental principles of good form and function. Some great examples are the modern classics still revered today, including the Barcelona chair and daybed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and the lounge chair by Charles Eames.

What do you feel are lasting, timeless palettes that still feel fresh and up-to-the-minute?

You can never go wrong with a neutral palette. Whether a shade of white, gray, cream, brown or black — select one as a foundation then add a splash of color!

What is your favorite Benjamin Moore paint color to use for walls, ceiling, and trim?  What type of sheen do you prefer?

I love to use all colors but I always use them sparingly! Most of my interiors tend to be monochromatic with a punch of color. This makes more of a visual impact than color overload. Some of my favorite Benjamin Moore colors are Black Bean Soup (a rich dark chocolate brown) and Frappe (a creamy classic vanilla white). I tend to like using gloss on trim and satin on the walls, for a luxurious look and feel.

Who are your 3 favorite fashion designers and why?

Viktor and Rolf, Dolce and Gabbana, and the late Alexander McQueen, just to name a few. They are inpirational to me for their willingness to push the envelope with avante garde works of art! I believe that we should express ourselves not only with fashion but with the spaces we create.

What are some tips for making a larger space appear cozy?

The key to making a large space cozy is to make sure that you use lots of fabric, area rugs and upholstery with texture. I like to use shag, fur or textured area rugs to frame out furniture groupings in a room. This can create a visual separation of space and can also make a large room feel scaled down in size. Also, always make sure that your furniture is proportioned with the space! High ceilings work better with tall drapes and chandeliers.

How have you repurposed an antique for a particular project?

I love all kinds of antiques, but especially have a passion for mid-century and Deco furnishings from the 30’s & 40’s. I love to incorporate them with the more modern interiors that we are creating today. There is nothing better than slightly modifying a classic piece to give it a 21st century look! One example: I took an old Louis XV chest in a drab wood veneer and had it refinished in a gorgeous, glossy white lacquer. I added a white marble top and converted the piece into a vanity. It was the perfect touch for a modern bathroom.

What role does artwork play in your designs? Do you prefer to select the artwork before the furniture or find pieces later that fit within the design scheme?

The right work of art - whether it be a sculpture, painting or area rug - in the right space is worth a thousand words! In my opinion, art can be the soul of an interior. When I have the luxury of doing so, I make a compelling piece of art the focal point of a room, then design around it.

Do you prefer to have painted walls or use wallpaper, and why?

I like anything that makes a modern interior space feel more luxe, warm and sophisticated. Usually a wallcovering or finish such as a Venetian plaster helps to achieve that!

How has your design aesthetic changed in the last 10 years?

I believe that my aesthetic is always changing and evolving, and I owe it to my international travels and experiences. The more beauty I see in the world, the more I hope to somehow incorporate it into my work. Asia - especially Japan and India - was particularly inspiring for me.

What has been your favorite recent project and why?

I had the opportunity recently to design the ultimate bachelor pad in Buenos Aires. A longtime client of mine wanted a chic, sexy, boutique hotel feel for his part-time residence in Argentina. He allowed us total creative freedom, so we designed a space inspired by the sensuality of Tango and the mystique of film noir. We had a wealth of antique shops to select from in the renowned San Telmo district. Some dealers had originals by Jean Michel Frank, Maison Jansen, Arbus and many other French Deco designers. Most of these antiques were brought to Buenos Aires in the glorious eras of the 20’s and 30’s . We purchased some to help give my client’s space a look unparalleled anywhere else!

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By Buzz Kaplan, Decorati Contributing Antiques Editor and author of The Buzz on Antiques, and Executive Director of Decorati manufacturer C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom in San Francisco.

Our esoteric antique word for today is “GIGLIO”, a term that most people mistake for “GIGOLO” and therefore mispronounce it “JIG-uh-loh”. But there’s a big difference.

A gigolo is an escort for ladies with too much money and too little companionship. Think Richard Gere in the 1980 film “American Gigolo”:

A giglio, on the other hand, is pronounced “JEE-lee-oh” (because the letters “gl” in Italian are pronounced like the “ll” in the word “million”). And what is a giglio? A giglio is an ornamental motif that resembles afleur de lys and looks like the first image above.

This decorative element often appears on cartouches, coats of arms, leatherwork, gold charms and antiques relating to the city of Florence because it’s the symbol for that city. It even appears on the Florentine flag and can be traced back to the time of the Roman foundations of ancient Florentia.

The giglio is based on the shape of a flower that’s kind of a cross between a lily and an iris. It differs from the fleur de lys because it sprouts two extra pistols between its leaves. Compare it to the classic fleur de lys(symbol of the Bourbon kings of France) shown here:

And now you know….

Buzz Kaplan is a graduate of UCLA where he earned both Bachelor’s and Juris Doctorate degrees. Buzz began collecting antiques in the late 1970’s, while he was still practicing law and for the last 28 years has been a principal of Kaplan & Co., a consulting firm specializing in antique and other investment grade tangible asset collections. His clients have included dealers, major banks, foundations and other institutions seeking guidance in the acquisition and deaccession of 17th and 18th century European antiques as well as investment portfolios in gold, silver and platinum commodities. He is currently Executive Director of C. Mariani Antiques, Restoration & Custom in San Francisco.

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