Samperton Style

So happy to see a fresh bedroom done-up by Schuyler Samperton, for the September In Style, featuring two of her signatures: a stately screen used in lieu of a headboard, and a suzani coverlet. (Well, maybe four of her signatures. Note the leopard pillow on the bed and the large plant in the corner.)

BTW: Yurdan has a large selection of suzanis. Click on the label suzani below for more sources.

Fantasy Find of the Week

When I got in today, two very gracious emails awaited: one from Coleen, over at Coleen and Company, and another from The Peak of Chic. Both said that a pair of rare, hand-made, large-scale bone pagodas have just arrived at Coleen's California boutique. Jennifer, a.k.a. The Peak of Chic, was especially generous to share the news rather than post the find herself.

So, above here they are. Amazingly delicate and intricate, and a substantial 38" tall. The price reflects their precious nature: $2,800 each. But they are forever pieces. Below, again is that wonderful shot of Mary McDonald with a few of the bone pagodas in her private collection.

Waiting for Lulu

All artwork © Lulu de Kwiatkowski, AMMO Books, 2007.

While we are waiting for the release of Lulu, the first book from textile designer Lulu de Kwiatkowski, here's a little preview. Remember, the focus of the book will be not interiors, but de Kwiatkowski's surreal handmade collages inspired by her 1970s childhood and her worldly travels. (Lulu's background is in fine art.)

When it finally does hit shelves -- hopefully in September not November -- the large-format volume should be lush since art house publisher Ammo Books is behind it.





I love how Anne Coyle used Lulu DK fabrics ("Porcupine" and "Chant") to bring a fresh edge to a trad Chicago family home, above; photos by Bob Hiemstra for O at Home, spring 2005.

Ahead of the Curve: Southern Accents

Image originally appeared in Southern Accents, July-August 2003; photo by Pieter Estersohn.

I'm embarrassed to say I'd forgotten about this South Carolina bedroom until it reappeared in the current issue of Southern Accents. When it was first published, I was of course immediately drawn to the pink suzani. At the time these textiles were not seen everywhere -- especially not in the Low Country. The striped walls and framed Jamaican landscape prints add to the sub-tropical charm. (Click to better see the details.)

BTW: Charleston-based Amelia Handegan -- always timeless but a little unpredictable -- is the decorator here, and the room was featured in a special bedroom "book-azine" that Southern Accents put together a few years ago. Click on the word suzani, under labels, for a host of suzani-related sources..

The Iron Age

Above, six Napoleon III French painted iron garden chairs, with star pattern punched in the seats, circa 1850, available through Lucullus.



Above, iron garden chairs used indoors, in a room designed by Jan Showers.

The High has a strong collection of mid-to-late 19th century furniture -- not a period I'm most passionate about -- so when I was a docent there, I challenged myself to become more enthused about the era. Iron garden chairs and tables were pieces I could get into. Polar opposites of heavy, dark, ornate Victorian and Napoleonic furniture, these iron creations are light, airy and fresh. Even a century later.

Related past post: Curls and Swirls.

New Orleans Style

Images from Southern Accents

New Orleans has always been such a diverse, eccentric place. Consequently, there's not one definitive Crescent City look. But there is a common thread: soul. Whether it's a humble Creole cottage or elegant Garden District home, many New Orleans interiors are filled with objects that have great personal meaning to the occupants. Residents also tend to buck the trends, and celebrate the sweet life.

As manager of the culinary antiques store Lucullus, Kerry Moody has acquired an abundance of fine 18th-and 19th century tableware. In his modest home he uses precious porcelain and silver, and Louis XV chairs. I love how his holiday table, above, is set with antique apple-green Vieux Paris soup bowls.



Images from Southern Accents

Above, Virginia Freeman Rowan represents polished New Orleans. In her home, refined European antiques and ball-gown curtains mingle happily with kids and pets. The soft creamy interior shown here is her family room. She prefers neutral backgrounds that never become dated and accommodate a lifetime of collecting.



Above, from Lucullus, a French modernist table cube in the Xavier Pauchard style, circa 1935; along with a set of late 19th century French iron garden chairs, circa 1880.



Photography, Kerri McCaffety, as seen in House Beautiful, January 2005

Above, Thomas Jayne collaborated with Robert Clepper to evoke the feel of a bohemian artist's early 20th century New Orleans apartment in this 350-square-foot French Quarter home. One of the challenges Jayne faced was working with Clapper's vast art collection. As a back-drop, vibrant creole color is used inside and out. The lush courtyard is positively iconic.

Off The Hook

An old mirror that usually hangs in my bedroom fell off the wall today. Hardly a crisis compared to people loosing their homes and belongings in a storm. But the headboard project may have to go on hold for a while. Get ready for a rash of "Mirror Obsessed" posts.

Happy Chic Find

Above, one of a pair of vintage chairs available through Pariscope.

What do you think of these cheerful 1960s orange-and-pink chairs? I can see them in a very femme bedroom -- adult's or child's, modern or traditional. They could also be great in a commercial interior -- maybe a boutique. The bold abstract floral fabric is trapunto quilted linen. (In Italian trapunto means "to embroider," and in English trapunto usually refers to simple stitches outlining a form, like the flowers here.)

More on Briger + Briger

The dessert plates displayed in this Briger + Briger-designed home were made in Paris by Dagoty for Marie-Antoinette's daughter, Marie-Therese.






C. Bell recently acquired the whimsical 19th-century garden chairs, shown above. The shop's owner plans to do the seats in bright apple-green terry-cloth.



All photography © Michel Zabé, Rizzoli New York, 2007. Images reprinted with permission from Rizzoli.

Recently I was treated to a sneak peek at Briger + Briger: Comfortable and Joyous Homes, City, Country and Lakeside, a soon-to-be released book from designer-collectors, Paul and Cris Briger. (Some of you may have seen the couple's 2006 homage to Dorothy Draper at Bergdorf Goodman.) My first thought is that detail oriented readers will love it.

The authors devote 240 pages to just three residences: a distinguished urban Mexico City home, a stately country house, and a lakeside retreat. Every nook and cranny -- interior and exterior -- is explored. With their extensive knowledge of decorative arts, the designers highlight special antiques and art placed in these homes, and make fascinating references to domestic life in centuries past. But their primary focus is on 21st-century comfort.

Having worked on grand projects, encompassing architecture and garden design as well as interiors, Briger + Briger have strong opinions on what truly constitutes comfortable living. Personally, I think their book would be a lovely gift for someone about to build or seriously renovate a home (or for a designer working with clients like this.)

In terms of aesthetic, the Briger + Briger look is very distinctive and hard to categorize. Like Rose Tarlow and John Saladino, the duo mix classic and modern pieces. But there is a whimsy, or eccentricity, to their work that reminds me of Lars Bolander, or even Madeleine Castaing. Take a look at the book when it hits shelves in October and tell me what you think.

Simple Headboards

Photo, Elle Decor.

Above, an extremely simple (perhaps slip-covered?) headboard pairs well with ultra-femme pieces in Sara Jessica Parker's beach house bedroom. Below, a clean-lined Kelly-green headboard is the focal point of Lee Kleinhelter's all-white guest room. (Also a great option for long-term renters faced with a neutral back-drop.)


Photo by Tim Street-Porter for Cottage Living, October 2006.

White Elephants

An item that may be on my Christmas list this year is a white ceramic elephant stool. So far I've not seen anything I like as much as this vintage pair, from Pieces, posted back in April (now sold). But J. Crew's new white elephant charm bracelet caught my eye tonight. $125.





This new elephant table is available through stores including C. Bell and Pieces.

Lexington Leader

Above, Leontine Linens founder, Jane Scott Hodges, with son. Image is from the Leontine Linens catalog.

The expression "tradition with a twist" is getting a little tired, but a friend of mine who grew up in Lexington with Leontine Linens founder, Jane Scott Hodges, tells me that is the best way to describe the entrepreneur's approach.

A few years ago, I saw this when the nursery Jane Scott put together in New Orleans, for her son, was featured on HGTV's Homes Across America. It was the first nursery I'd ever seen with a teeny-weeny touch of Tony Duquette: a red bamboo chandelier.


Photo by Katherine Slingluff


Above, decorator Melissa Rufty helped Hodges transform a tiny office, in an old New Orleans "shot-gun" house, into a nursery with flair.

In 1999, a Chinese-Red-lacquered chandelier in a baby's room -- especially in the home of a very traditional couple -- was truly unexpected. (Unfortunately the grainy picture above does not do the room's colors justice.) Hodges really made the most of a small narrow space by enveloping it in French-blue, accented with brilliant reds. The sole window was decked-out with a chinoiserie-toile shade, and an Asian-inspired monogram was designed for the linens. To really add punch, a found bamboo rocker was lacquered red as well. (That statuesque giraffe, though, is what won me over most.)

Speaking of linens, for someone more boho than trad, I love John Robshaw's "Parrot" baby bedding, below.

Headboard Obsessed

Interior design above, Vesta Fort; photo, Paul Costello for Domino, May 2006..

Here's a quick and simple headboard tip from Mary McDonald, a decorator known for creating glamorous, comfortable beds: when contemplating a custom upholstered piece, McDonald recommends sketching the desired form, in actual size, on craft paper. Next, cut the shape out and tape it to the wall behind the bed for preview. Doing this could help prevent disaster. (Tip appeared in House & Garden, November 2001.)



Above is JBK's circa 1960 White House bedroom, decorated by Sister Parish with headboard covered in, I believe, Dek Tillet daisy print cotton. Image via Elle Decor.

Holiday Preview: Crane

Crane is currently offering 10% off early orders of personalized holiday cards until September 30. Above is another favorite from their 2007 collection: a delicate white tree and ornaments engraved in white on a soft yellow-green background. Unfortunately, at least for now, these are only available with larger custom orders -- not as a small boxed set.

More Stripes, More Headboards

The Antwerp chair, covered in Kelly Wearstler's "Couture Stripe" in canary-and-black, is still available through Anthropologie. This striped fabric is extremely textural in person. At the moment I'm picturing it on a headboard. (Not necessarily for me, with my existing fabrics, but for someone.)



Photography above, Eric Morin for World of Interiors, December 2006.

Another look I've always liked is Kate and Andy Spade's yellow-striped upholstered headboard, seen on World of Interiors' 25th anniversary cover. With its French-style frame, it could be too fussy, but the crisp white paint and ultra wide stripes make it look almost modern.



Photos above, Jessica Craig-Martin.

When Kate Spade was photographed for House & Garden a few years ago, she propped against a yellow-and-white print headboard. (Click images to enlarge and read captions.)


Photo above, Pieter Estersohn for Elle Decor, June-July 2001.

For his tiny beach house, decorator Todd Romano used a very tailored upholstered headboard with stripes placed on the horizontal.



Always inspiring Nick Olsen, over at Domino, recently talked about the idea of buying Urban Outfitters' economical Regency Headboard, above, just for the cool shape, and recovering it D.I.Y. Be sure to see his post.

Headboard Options

Photo above by Gemma Comas for Domino, January/February 2006.

For the fabric-obsessed, an upholstered headboard offers an opportunity to use a beloved print in a way that is less costly than covering a whole sofa or wing chair. But this option is a big commitment. Usually a boldly patterned headboard leaves little freedom for changing other elements in a bedroom down the road.

A solid linen headboard though, like Krista Ewart's below, provides graphic punch and versatility.


Photo above by Melanie Acevedo for Domino, June/July 2007.

The same goes for Lee Kleinhelter's tufted-white headboard, below. It is glamorous and flexible.


Photo by Tim Street-Porter for Cottage Living, October 2006.

Striped headboards can be a compromise between a lavish floral and a plain solid. And of course, a fabric-covered screen (or a handsome leather one) can be used in lieu of a headboard, then later moved to another setting.


Photo above by Max Kim-Bee for Domino, June 2006.

To me, half the fun is the hunt for an exciting piece. If you're interested in open-work wood screens or panels, Mandarin Antiques in Atlanta is a great place to explore.

Ikat Again

A house in Normandy, as seen in House Beautiful, April 2004.

When she restored her family's 17th-century French hunting lodge, Sally Perrin somehow managed to keep a bit of that lush "Sun King" feel but loose the ostentation. To me, the ikat curtains look amazing against those sumptuous red walls.



Before she was Editor-in-Chief of Elle Decor, Margaret Russell produced the feature on ikat, above. Click to enlarge and read the captions.



Above, a large ikat throw, proper monogram pillow and Chinese porcelain are all part of the mix in Brazilian architect Sig Bergamin's home. Image is from Elle Decor.

(I read that the book Ikat: Splendid Silks of Central Asia now sells for over $800. Could that be a misprint?)

The Independent

[Images from Elle Decor.]

In her family's study, free-spirited Lorraine Kirke -- wife of Bad Company drummer, Simon Kirke -- abandons the decorating rule-book and hangs pictures of her kids on the wall in a loose composition.

More evidence of her independent Anglo-thinking below. Kirke's kitchen cabinets are not white, or even black, but full-tilt glossy red. (At least they were as seen in Elle Decor about six years ago.)

Speaking of Headboards...

Photography above by Ivan Terestchenko.

This bedroom in Mississippi-born textile connoisseur Lisa Fine's sumptuous Paris apartment made for the loveliest Elle Decor cover, back in August 2000. But her amazing Indian-inspired headboard didn't show in the shot.

Here it is below, on my TV screen, as seen in HGTV's one-hour special, Homes of Paris.



Fine's own custom embroidered headboard was such a success that she began producing them. I hope soon to have better images and updated information to share.

Project of a Lifetime

All images above, Elle Decor; photography, Lisa Romerein; tile work by Los Angeles-based Lascaux Tile.

Margaret Russell once described Michael Smith's Portuguese-inspired Montecito project, above, as "magical." And HGTV featured the residence among its 10 Most Beautiful Homes. That living room, with its unexpected wainscot of blue-and-white patterned tiles, seems to take everyone's breath away.

"It was a once in a lifetime tile project," says Lenore Eisner of Lascaux Tile, the crafts-people behind the scenes of Smith's masterpiece.

When Smith's team first showed Eisner a concept drawing, her reaction was, "Wow. I was really impressed because I'd never heard of anyone in America doing a tiled living room wainscot [although] it was common in Portuguese and Spanish manors."

Smith and his clients had been trekking across Portugal, studying its traditional architecture and rich fusion of cultures. They provided Eisner with 18th-century tiles and photos from the National Tile Museum in Lisbon.

Her brief was "To try and match [the tiles] for their tones of blue, character of painting, and background color. Lead was used in the old tiles and it softens up the colors, so we had to research the new glazes to achieve that effect. My associate studied in Portugal years before, and learned tile making there, so he was familiar with traditional techniques. We tested and submitted many samples until they were approved. The tile portion of the project just kept growing."

In the end, Lascaux was involved with numerous exterior and interior spaces on the property. "Smith was generous with the tiles and their placement. He drove them right to the ceiling and used intensive pattern for maximum effect. Each of the tiled rooms was successful, distinctive and more beautiful than the next," adds Eisner.

To see a full range of Lascaux's exquisite hand-painted tiles visit their site.

The Montecito home is also featured in Michael Smith Elements of Style.



See also, Candida Hofer: In Portugal.

John Robshaw Fall

I'm so crazy about the latest "Winter Garden" pillows from John Robshaw, shown above. May have to change the bed below a bit. Would love to use his orange or lime bolster (then of course change my existing throw too.)

Now For A Headboard

I think the lamp shade saga proves that I truly value your input. I'm constantly amazed by the constructive comments I receive from talented decorators (actual and amateur.) So now I'm curious to know your thoughts on headboards.

Just keep in mind this guest room is all about mobile chic. Every piece in it is something I already had, or a new acquisition I hope to eventually use in a different place.

In my own bedroom I have a four-poster but I've always wanted to use a gorgeous antique screen as a headboard, similar to Schuyler Samperton's below. (Be sure to see the new profile of Samperton on All The Best.)


Designer Schuyler Samperton's bedroom, photographed by Grey Crawford for Elle Decor, November 2003.

BTW: Ballard is still discounting several of its upholstered headboards.

Annie Kelly

Above, Annie Kelly's lush tablescape featured in Rooms to Inspire; photography © Tim Street-Porter, Rizzoli New York, 2007.

When I first purchased Annie Kelly's Rooms to Inspire: Decorating With America's Best Designers, from Rizzoli, I was focused on the well-known talents featured (Miles Redd, Steven Gambrel, Kelly Wearstler.) But now I return again and again to the pages that show the author's home: Villa Vallombrosa.

Kelly, a decorator and design journalist married to photographer Tim Street-Porter, names Tony Duquette as a mentor. Her small chinoiserie-themed sitting room really has Duquette markings -- a pair of pagodas, plus numerous Asian and Asian-inspired artifacts mixed with European furniture. (Although it feels like edited Duquette.) The elegant room's palette is what's unexpected: orange combined with pale purple.

Click-on the image above to see details. Hope it inspires you to do a weekend tablescape of your own.


Above, Annie Kelly's home featured in Rooms to Inspire; photography © Tim Street-Porter, Rizzoli New York, 2007.

Most Romantic Provenance

Image copyright, 1stdibs 2007.

This Pagoda Red piece should win an award for most romantic sounding provenance. It's described as a circa 1920 small stool from expatriate quarters of Tianjin, China. Apparently it was commissioned by a European expatriate, in an 18th-century European style. (The floral carving feels kind of French, while the ball-and-claw feet seem English.) The upholstery may be original, and some original paint remains too.

Kind and Famous

Above, Mary McDonald, as seen in House Beautiful, October 2002.



Photo above, Melanie Acevedo for Domino, January/February 2006. Below, a blurry but very cool shot of Mary McDonald with her amazing bone pagodas.



My friend Megan thinks Mary McDonald may just be the next "It Decorator." She definitely seems to be among the most gracious. Recently she took time to give me the scoop on a couple of pieces in her personal collection.

"The bone pagodas are something I collect when I see them at odd antique stores. They are hard to find so I buy them when I find them." Mary adds that from time to time she does see less expensive reproductions. Scoring one could be a fun challenge for all of you savvy hunters.

Unfortunately, Mary's zebra-covered woven stools, shown above, are also antiques from Africa. I had hoped those were going to be part of Mary's future home furnishings line -- an option for people like Lindsey and me who crave a little zebra but aren't sure how we feel about the newer rugs. Currently nothing close is on 1stdibs.

Mary says she now spots those stools only on rare occasions, and friendly reader Joni remembers that Shabby Slips owner, Renae Abbott, had zebra-covered drums in her shop around four or five years ago.

The bone pagoda below, available through Chapman Radcliff, has been on my wishlist forever.



But I was thrilled to receive this 100-year-old brass version for Christmas. (Sorry longtime readers I know you are tired of seeing it!)

Custom Shades

My recent experience working with Sunlighting Lamp and Shade Center, to create a custom drum shade, was totally positive. Using my remnant of Silk Trading's "Shingu Suiting" silk in citron, Sunlighting made the small (10"x 10" x 8") shade above for just under $50.

If, like me, you are a retail customer interested in a special shade resembling Ivanka Trump's red-lacquered style, below, I definitely recommend investigating a lamp-making center in your town. The process is much simpler and more economical than you might think. (At least it has been for me in Atlanta.)


Interior design above, Emma Jane Pilkington, as seen in House & Garden, January 2005; photo by Oberto Gili.

Sunlighting is located at 4990 Roswell Road, in Atlanta. (404) 257-0043. A vast selection of ready-made shades are also available.

Chinoiserie Frenzy

Above, the famous mid-18th-century Badminton bed, part of the V & A's collection, inspired Michael Smith's pagoda-style piece below.




Michael Smith isn't known for doing rooms with a "motif," but he really rocked the chinoiserie theme a few years ago in this California bedroom. What could have ended in disaster somehow works in the context of this stately home.

Whether or not you like Smith's room, the Badminton bed that inspired it is an important piece to know if you're interested in furniture history. Most likely designed by craftsman John Linnell for the Duchess of Beaufort, this red-lacquered bed epitomizes the "exotic" Chinese style that was so popular for English ladies' bedrooms in the 18th-century.

Photos of the Michael Smith bedroom are by Michael Mundy, as seen in California Style Magazine. The interior is also featured in Michael Smith Elements of Style.

Pondering Zebra Rugs

Above, decorator Todd Romano used in his own living room a stylized "zebra" rug, originally designed by Parish Hadley for Betsey Whitney. Below, in his tiny reading room, what appears to be an antique zebra skin. Photos by Michael Mundy for House & Garden, March 2004.





Above, Ruthie Sommers opted for faux-zebra in her living room. Photo, Ngoc Minh Ngo for In Style Home spring 2007. Her wool version is a personal favorite.

Below, Jonathan Adler's interpretation of the iconic rug.



Below, Ballard sells an all-wool needlepoint version.



Has anyone seen Jonathan Adler's Llama wool zebra rug in person? I'm curious to know how it compares to the stylized zebra-striped rugs Parish-Hadley used decades ago. (I love how Todd Romano mixed the faux rug, above, with his trad furnishings.)

BTW: Through August 31, 10 percent of all proceeds from sales of Jonathan Adler's online wares benefit Peruvian earthquake relief.

Domicilium Decoratus Sale

Mermerings was kind enough to let me know that Kelly Wearstler's Domicilium Decoratus, published by Harper Collins, is currently on sale for about $19.95 at Anthropologie.

I've observed before that many design-mad Wearstler fans seem to have a dramatic reaction to the book: they either love it or hate it. But I still enjoy pouring over my copy. It's unlike anything else on my shelves. Sheer visual pleasure.

BTW: the book is in the sale section, not the regular book section.

More on Vintage Shopping

Above, personal finds from two favorite Atlanta shops: the black chandelier is from Pieces and the mirror is from Interiors Market.

When I recommended Pieces for the Design Sponge online shopping guide, I neglected to mention how great the shop's customer service is. All of the vintage items are well inspected. Lighting is newly wired, most furniture is freshly upholstered, and everything is described accurately. It's a pleasure to shop there!

Latest Obsession: Textile Designer Anupama Swaminadhan

My September Domino arrived on time today. The first page to go in my inspiration notebook? Page 38, with the profile on textile designer Anupama Swaminadhan. Her hand-painted pillows, based on timeless Indian designs, are gorgeous. (I also loved seeing Kenneth Jay Lane's place.)

For more on Indian style, visit the Calico Museum of Textiles.

Decorating on DVD

A few years ago, I caught Mary McDonald's house on the old HGTV show, Homes Across America. Her unpretentious kitchen had a painted brown-and-white striped floor, dark chocolate walls and an abundance of white.

Sometimes when I post an idea on a whim -- a product I wish would be made -- I actually hear from a person in-the-know who says that a similar project is in the works. So here goes: I wish someone would produce a series of podcasts or dvd's featuring the homes of outstanding decorators.

House & Garden does have a nice series of podcast interviews with designers such as Peter Dunham. And I'm still thankful to whoever put the Todd Romano/Elle Decor Video on You Tube. But it would be great to be able to buy or download more.

Sunburst Mirrors

Above Epoca's oh-so-elegant French 1940's carved giltwood sunburst mirror.

When you're ready to graduate from the style of sunburst mirror that hung on Monica's wall (on Friends) but not quite ready for the most exquisite (and pricey) versions, it's a challenge to find something in the middle. So, I was happy to find this old, reasonably priced, Italian silver-gilt mirror, shown top, at Interiors Market. I think it can be used in a million different ways.

BTW: There is a great chapter on the history of French and Italian mirrors in The Essence of Style: How the French Invented High Fashion, Fine Food, Chic Cafes, Style, Sophistication, and Glamour.

Also, I should have my new drum lampshade in a few days and will be able to spare you the boredom of seeing this shot over and over.

Animal Appeal

This grass-cloth stool from Florida's C. Bell is painted with a cheetah pattern. Perfect for adding just a bit of earthy animal magnetism to a room. 18" X 13". $110.

Design Sponge Shopping Guide

Grace, a.k.a. Design Sponge, has put together a really helpful bloggers' online shopping guide. It will be permanently available in her guides section, so you can reference it often. (My responses seem painfully long-winded but I'm flattered to be included among such savvy, creative bloggers!)

Find of the Week: Ceramic Mirror

Not surprisingly, the most interesting find of the week is from Downtown. It is a 1959 Italian ceramic convex mirror with crystalline turquoise glaze. Absolutely not budget-friendly ($4,200) but so striking.

The exquisite color and loop detail remind me of the "Parker" from Atlanta-based Turq Jewelry's fall collection, below.

Chair Double

Ivanka Trump's Park Avenue apartment, originally decorated by Emma Jane Pilkington; Photo above by Douglas Friedman for In Style (U.S. edition, January 2007.)



Above, samples of handwoven, hand-dyed stripes from The Silk Trading Co., priced less than $30 per yard.



The striped chair shown top in Ivanka Trump's library seems to be extremely popular. I believe hers is from Oly Studio, and covered in a Lulu DK hand-printed stripe. For a budget-friendly alternative, try Wisteria's Louis XVI-inspired chair, $229, as shown above. Fabulous handwoven cotton stripes, in an array of colors, are available at The Silk Trading Co. Most are under $30 per yard, and they have a great naturally slubby hand. The samples I used above aren't intended to be copies of Ivanka's fabric -- just thought they were striking.

Ahead of the Curve: Lillian Wang

Photography, Luca Trovato, Town & Country, February 1999.


When Lillian Wang von Stauffenberg opted for this cupcake "tower," in lieu of a traditional cake for her 1998 wedding, it was a seriously chic, unexpected choice. Stylish but appetizing. Different but not too edgy. Back then cupcakes weren't seen everywhere.

Whether in interiors, events or fashion, I think it's fun to look back and find elements that began as something so fresh but later were copied to the point of being commonplace. Although, I think the design of the confection above still holds up.

BTW: Lillian Wang is the bride who provided her guests with parasols as shown in the post below.

Parasols and Wearstler

Photography, Luca Trovato, Town & Country, February 1999.

I think I've mentioned before how anxious I am to see Kelly Wearstler's third book, the follow-up to Domicilium Decoratus. The latest title, scheduled to be released in 2008, is supposed to feature her family's 1920's Georgian-style estate in Beverly Hills. Recently I read in Australian Harper's Bazaar that Wearstler has a collection of vintage parasols, which she is highlighting in the master closet. I'm so curious to see her approach. You know it will be insanely chic.

Ahead of the Curve: Anne Coyle

Image above is from Elle Decor, May 2005.



Photos above, Bill Hogan for The Chicago Tribune.

Lavender is getting so much press at the moment. But for years decorator Anne Coyle has used lavender as a neutral. She told the Chicago Tribune that her signature "Necco Wafer" palette was inspired in part by the children's book, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. I think everyone has already seen these interiors, I just thought it would be interesting to draw attention to them again. (For more on the designer see past posts labeled "Anne Coyle.")




Photo above, Robbie Caponetto for the October 2006 Cottage Living.

Civilettes

With the exception of holiday cards, and a few irresistible items, I try to leave paper goods to other bloggers who already have that domain covered. But I do have to share the most clever product, "Civilettes," that came to me via Laura, over at Orange Beautiful. As shown above, a chic miniature box holds 10 portable thank you notes. Instructions on the back read, "use in the event of a kind deed or word from stranger or friend." So clever.

For more smart ideas and lovely wares, be sure to visit Laura and Emily at their blog, The Scoop, or their letterpress business, Orange Beautiful.

Mecox Picks

Above, a couple of pieces that grabbed my attention at Mecox Gardens: Top, red flower pillow in hemp on linen. 19" x 19". $250. Second, a versatile vintage brass stool. 16" x 12". $425.

Elegant DIY II

Images above, Melanie Acevedo for Domino, January/February 2006.

Some feel that D.I.Y projects usually yield less than stellar results, but I think Mary McDonald's paper-covered file cabinet is a brilliant exception. The idea is to photocopy a favorite fabric or wallpaper, then use the enlarged image to cover a cabinet. For readers who are working on a new dorm room, or home office, I'm re-posting the helpful suggestions Mary sent me below:

"O.K. guys I see you need some instruction on the filing cabinet thing. First of all you must get an exact size of your filing cabinet and go to Kinkos to use the oversize copy machine. It is best to flirt with someone to help you before you make 75 copies the wrong size! Start with an image similar in ratio -- long and thin, then you can cut the weird edges off. If you just cannot be art school neat about it, make another different trim for the border to frame it. Use mounting spray, exacto knives and then lacquer it. You can use decoupage supplies too -- very self explanatory with directions. Try again!"

Mary McDonald

Interchangeable Parts II

Photo above, from House & Garden, shows Mary McDonald's work on the historic Buster Keaton estate.


Photo above, Luca Trovato for Town & Country December 2005.


Photo above, Melanie Acevedo for Domino, January/February 2006.

My mission to highlight forever pieces (great furniture and accessories that can stay with you for a lifetime, through numerous moves or changes in circumstances) continues. Here are three different rooms, varied in size and formality, where Mary McDonald re-used the same elements: zebra stools, pillows made from Brunschwig & Fils "Le Zebre," bone-inlaid chairs, and her signature blue-and-white ceramics. (If you browse Mary's site you'll notice that pagoda pops-up often too.) Laura over at Orange Beautiful calls this "mobile chic." To better see all the details. click on the images.

Grand Batik

Above, "Greta" hemp/linen from Kathryn M. Ireland's Batik collection.



Textile fans may want to investigate Grand Batik Interiors, a book that focuses not just on the ancient cloth's history but on its use in contemporary interior design.

Also, textile designer Kathryn M. Ireland, known for her batiks, paisleys and other Indian-inspired prints, will soon release her own book, Classic Country.

Excellence and Elegance: Decorative Arts of the 18th-Century Qing Court

Cup. Decorated with waves, Qing dynasty, (1723-1735) Porcelain, secret or anhua décor with a white reserve on a "red coral" base, Former Grandidier collection Musée national des Arts asiatiques-Guimet G 1556 (C) Photo RMN / © Thierry Ollivier

Coming soon to The Met: Excellence and Elegance: Decorative Arts of the Eighteenth-Century Qing Court. The exhibition opens August 25, and will feature exquisite Chinese porcelain, metalwork, jade, lacquer, and textiles. Apparently the rare porcelain included among the 60 works on view is decorated with especially brilliant colors.

(At the moment I don't have an image from the upcoming exhibition, but the cup above, from the Musée national des Arts, is an amazing example of Qing dynasty porcelain.)

Houses of Los Angeles

In October Acanthus Press is scheduled to release the two-volume, Houses of Los Angeles. Both books will focus on the city's highly diverse residential architecture. Volume I, Houses of Los Angeles, 1885-1919, will include Moorish villas, Spanish missions, French châteaux, and Japanese palaces.

Volume II, Houses of Los Angeles, 1920-1935, will focus on 37 in-town residences and mountainside estates, such as the homes of actors Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks, producer David O. Selznick, and Chinese art dealer Grace Nicholson. In total, about 800 archival photographs, as well as landscape and floor plans will be included.

Those Leather Poufs Again

Above, pastel leather Moroccan poufs, as seen in Candace Bushnell's apartment, Elle Decor, 2005. Below, more poufs in Kelly Wearstler's son's room, as seen in Domicilium Decoratus, published by Harper Collins, 2006.



I receive quite a few emails asking where to find Moroccan poufs similar to the ones here. One source I've not mentioned before is Plantation in L.A. This shop carries handmade ottomans in an array of colorful leathers. The poufs are 15" high by 19" in diameter and cost $245. Samples are shown below.





Below, I love how Schuyler Samperton incorporated a leather pouf into her living room. Photo, Paul Costello for Domino, April 2007.



Update 9.6.07
Pieces in Atlanta now sells the colorful poufs too.

Alternate Fabrics

Ruthie Sommers' living room as seen in the December 2006 Cottage Living. Photo, Grey Crawford. Click top image to enlarge.

If you love the Chapman Radcliff look but find the amazing Quadrille fabrics often used by Ruthie to be beyond your budget, Lewis Sheron has some economical new arrivals that could serve as alternates.

Libson Linen, below, reminds me a bit of Ruthie's curtains. Might be worth ordering a swatch to see how the green hue looks in person. $11.98 per yard.



Below, I love the Lilly Pulitzer vibe of Wesley Cotton. About $13 per yard.

Style Compass With Emma Jane Pilkington

Above, Ivanka Trump's Park Avenue apartment, designed by Emma Jane Pilkington and photographed by Oberto Gili for House & Garden, January 2005.

If you're a fan of Emma Jane Pilkington's work, check-out Style Compass today on 1stdibs. There's a nice in-depth feature on the always chic designer.

Below, more lovely views of Trumps's place as seen in House & Garden.

Broadhurst Poll Results

Above, Florence Broadhurst's hand-printed "Circles and Squares." Pillows and wall hangings available through Weego Home.

Voter turn-out for the Florence Broadhurst poll was small, so these results are less than scientific, but 75% said the eccentric, indefatigable Broadhurst was the true visionary behind her wallpaper collection. Others -- 25% -- were a bit skeptical, crediting her success to serendipity and the wild 1960s. For more see Summer Book Club.

Omersa's Menagerie

For years I thought this iconic leather elephant was Abercrombie and Fitch's. Indirectly he used to be. In that era from the mid-1970s to whenever it was that A&E became a very different kind of store, these wild creatures were sold there. But the manufacturer was, and still is, a small British company: Omersa.

I know this only because last year I helped my mom order online a pair of hippos directly from Omersa's current owner, Josie Dale. (BTW: the customer service was excellent.)

Apparently the first animal, a pig, was created by a luggage-maker in 1927, using scrap pigskin. The craftsman soon started selling his stuffed animals as footstools through Liberty's of London. In 1958, Dimitri Omersa bought the company and expanded the range of animals to include a now famous rhinoceros, an elephant, a donkey and others.

Omersa animals from the 1960s through mid-1970s are hot collectors' items. (Embossed on the underside of their ears is "Liberty," marking an exclusive deal with the legendary London emporium. My uncle had one of these "period" pigs.) Today the animals are still handmade in rural Lincolnshire.


Above, I think I spot an Omersa in Ruthie Sommers' den as seen in the December 2006 Cottage Living. Photo, Grey Crawford.

Scully and Scully is an online U.S. retailer, and I think Mecox Gardens stocks a few animals too. Because of the price, I view these oh-so-charming stools as a luxury item but they are totally kid-friendly, forever pieces.

(See also Frances' cute related post, Scully and Scully.)

Timeless Prints II

Last year I mentioned some modern Tree-of-Life pillows available through Pieces. The chocolate-and-white fabric had a strong Matisse feel, and was either the same as, or very similar to, a print used by legendary Billy Baldwin (see the cover of Billy Baldwin Decorates, below.)



Currently Pieces has some pillows made-up in the orange-and-white version. Just thought I'd spread the word. The pattern is such a great update on the centuries-old Indian motif.

BTW: If you're a fan of Matisse and fabric, try Matisse, His Art and His Textiles.



Above, similar orange pillows seen in Pieces owner, Lee Kleinhelter's home, photographed by Tim Street Porter for the October 2006 Cottage Living.

For more on Tree-of-Life, search the Victoria & Albert Museum’s collection of 18th-century Indian palampores, or Lee Jofa's archives.

Summer Book Club: Florence Broadhurst

Above, Weego Home sells pillows and wall hangings made from Florence Broadhurst hand-printed Asian-inspired fabric. Shown here, Bamboo in yellow.

Did she or didn't she? Did Florence Broadhurst use her own unique aesthetic, life experience and vision to direct a group of young artists in creating one cohesive wallpaper collection, or was it all serendipity? A phenomenon that sprang out of the dynamic 1960s, with diverse creative people each adding something to the mix?

After reading Florence Broadhurst: Her Secret & Extraordinary Lives.what questions are on your mind?

If you're an Australian reader, are you happy the Broadhurst collection is currently receiving so much attention, regardless of who truly designed it? Do you think the collection really speaks Australia?

Related links:
signatureprints.com.au.
Weego Home
Walnut Wallpaper
Woodson and Rummerfield
Powerhouse Museum

Vogue Living II

Back in April, I mentioned Hamish Bowles' soon-to-be released book, Vogue Living: Houses, Gardens, People. Sort of an update on the iconic 1960s volume, Vogue's Book of Houses, Gardens, People. (Joni just scored a copy of the vintage edition. Be sure to see her related post!) Of the future releases discussed here often in the last year, which are you most excited about:

Lulu, from textile designer Lulu de Kwiatkowski?

The L.A. House, from Ruthie Sommers?

Vogue Living: Houses, Gardens, People?

Inspired Styles? A book scheduled to be released by Assouline in time for holiday gift-giving 2007.

Elle Decor so Chic: Glamorous Lives, Stylish Places? (a Bibliostyle scoop.)

Or a different title?

Inspired By Claydon House?

Above, Mary McDonald's master bedroom designed for the 2003 House Beautiful showhouse benefiting Children's Action Network.



Image above, Claydon House, copyright Britain's National Trust.

I've always wondered if the fret work that crowns Mary McDonald's dramatic canopy bed, top, was slightly inspired by the famous Chinese Room at Britain's Claydon House. Designed in 1769 by Luke Lightfoot, the Claydon interior is viewed as the most intricate chinoiserie room surviving in Britain. Highlights include elaborate pagoda motifs above each door, and an almost theatrical tea alcove painted with latticework and covered in lush Asian-inspired details.



This Kelly Wearstler-designed yellow bedroom at Maison 140, above, is intended to have a Paris-meets-Far East vibe. It feels a little like a modern, clean-lined version of those stately 18th-century European bedrooms that were loaded with chinoiserie.

Inspired By Bibliostyle

Images above, copyright Tiffany & Co. Click to see details.

When Jennifer, a.k.a. Bibliostyle, described her first vintage book acquisition, Tiffany Table Settings, I instantly wanted a copy for my own library. Happily, I spotted the out-of-print book the other day at Interiors Market.

Sort of a precursor to Dining By Design, Tiffany Table Settings is filled with vignettes styled by top 1950's-60s era designers, using Tiffany's fine wares. (Jennifer highlighted the best of the best: Baldwin, Vreeland, Parish.)

Above, I've just added a few settings that I think would be fun to replicate today. Actually that's what Tiffany's intended. Far less flamboyant than Dining By Design tables, Tiffany's "exquisitely tasteful arrangements" were meant to be copied by hostesses across the U.S.

Shown top: terrace luncheon in sun colors with John Vesey furniture -- those tiny black basalt cups hold yellow daisies mixed with cigarettes; middle image: birthday party on lofty New York terrace; last image: child's birthday luncheon features monkeys on a candy-cane jungle gym.

Holiday and Now

Above, a favorite from Crane's 2007 holiday offerings: a stylized ornament is foil stamped in coral and gold, on an espresso-brown background. $24 for 10 cards.

Below, not holiday but universally exquisite: Vera Wang's engraved red pagoda notes, about $24 for 10, through Fine Stationery.



Below, another Asian-inspired style: chartreuse and white note cards from Blue Ribbon Design's Chinoiserie Folio.

Trend Lives On

Click above to see details.

Six years ago, I wrote a paper about the centuries-old style phenomenon, chinoiserie (a French term for Asian-inspired design favored in the West). This "Trend Alert" tear sheet, above, from Elle Decor, circa 2000, was inserted to show that Asian influences seemed stronger than ever in the new millennium. Yesterday the page fell out of an old box, and I've been thinking about how chinoiserie has become a bigger craze since the magazine feature first appeared.

More evidence from past posts below: Emma Roig's fresh Kensington dining room, photographed by Simon Upton for Elle Decor, April 2007; Interior design by Blathnaid Behan.



Below, Elle Decor Editor in Chief, Margaret Russell's tables for Dining By Design 2006 to benefit DIFFA.




The turquoise vases used on the tables are available from Jayson Home. The plates are by Robert Dawson for Wedgwood, in the After Willow pattern.




Above, Weego Home sells 17" square pillows made from Florence Broadhurst hand-printed Asian-inspired fabric.



Above, "Bamboo Lattice" gift wrap from Elum.




Above, a Chinese inspired hand-painted porcelain piece, from Mecox Gardens, with dragon motif that measures twenty inches tall and fourteen inches in diameter.



Above, "Folie Chinoise," an overscale French chinoiserie print, on all cotton, part of Suzanne Rheinstein's debut collection of fabrics designed for Lee Jofa, set to launch fall 2007.

Taschen's Roses

This month, Taschen is scheduled to release a 25th Anniversary edition of its popular title, Roses.

The book is an accurate reproduction of French flower painter Pierre-Joseph Redouté's work Les Roses, which was published between 1817 and 1824. The celebrated artist is known in part for his commissions for Napoleon's wife Josephine, but above all for his skill and innovation. At about $25, the book makes an affordable yet lovely gift.

Related site: Malmaison.

Decorative Arts of the Kings Closes September 2

Nécessaire, 1729, by Henri-Nicolas Cousinet. Currently on view in Decorative Arts of the Kings, at the High. Image copyright High Museum of Art.

The High's exhibition, Decorative Arts of the Kings, is in its final weeks. On view are masterworks by furniture makers such as Jean-Baptiste-Claude Sene and Bernard van Risenburgh II (I thought of Kelly Wearstler's Hillcrest library when I saw the van Risenburgh writing table.) Stately 17th-century tapestries are included too. Some whimsy is injected with Isabelle de Borchgrave's life-size paper-costumed Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI.

Related reading that might be perfect for a future bookclub: The Essence of Style: How the French Invented High Fashion, Fine Food, Chic Cafes, Style, Sophistication, and Glamour.

Adventures in Lampmaking

My original inspiration lamps from Chapman Radcliff, above.

This morning I ventured out Roswell Road to Sunlighting Lamp and Shade Center, with the goal of having a custom drum shade made. Atlanta has several excellent lampmaking shops open to the public, but Sunlighting is an especially good source if you need a shade made from scratch. My small shade will be done with a French roll, meaning the edges will be completely clean -- no trim or raised binding. I was told French roll takes a bit longer: usually two weeks. The total labor cost is just under $50 for a 10"x 10" x 8" size.

Thanks again to Vanessa of Turquoise for including my little antique Chinese lamp in her Design 911 series. She was so generous with her time and creative energy. Also, I appreciate the input from many stylish readers (such as Joni!) As Girl Meets Glamour said recently, some lamps benefit from a wardrobe of shades. I love both the quirky trad black pagoda shade and the chic, clean-lined drum, so I plan to alternate between the two.

Sunlighting is located at 4990 Roswell Road, (404) 257-0043. A vast selection of ready-made shades are also available.

Chinoiserie Fever Lingers

Not especially budget-friendly, but extremely chic: red octagonal glass and wood table with intricate Chinese-inspired fret work from Suzanna Hamilton.

Round Bulbs

Above, Lee Kleinhelter favors round bulbs for the lighting in her shop, Pieces.

If you've spent much time examining the chandeliers at Pieces, you know round bulbs, similar to those seen throughout Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style, are used almost exclusively. These are actually 25-watt vanity bulbs available at Ace Hardware for about $10 for six bulbs. Using them is a way to bring a little KWID touch to a classic chandelier you already own.

The Sofa Fund

Photo above, Paul Costello for Domino.

When it comes to decorating, my friend Carson has a serious investment strategy. After college graduation she started a sofa savings account, with the goal of acquiring a classic "forever" piece. By the time she was 25 she had a custom Baker.

Carson would rather live in a room with only one piece she loves than a room filled with many things she doesn't. She also has been on the move since her boarding school days; work, marriage and grad school keep transporting her from city to city, and yet another beige rental. So, it serves her well to focus on basics (sofa, chair, coffee table, bookcase) and avoid not-so-mobile elements like curtains. Wise to the core, nearly a decade before having children she chose a raspberry Brunschwig-upholstered sofa that is now totally kid-friendly.

Obviously, very expensive sofas aren't for everyone. But I thought some of my teen readers might be inspired by the idea of a sofa fund. (Carson started collecting inspiration tear sheets at age 16. ) Your goal might be Pottery Barn, or a vintage sofa from a favorite local shop. Domino has a great online sofa guide.

Citrus Punch II

Ruthie Sommers in one of her signature chairs; photos above by Michael Weschler as seen in the January-February 2004 Southern Accents.


Sofa above available through C. Bell.


Marina Rust and her orangey sofa, photographed by Francois Halard for Vogue.


Detail of tufted sofa spotted a while back at Chapman Radcliff.

Inspired by a tufted Victorian sofa newly upholstered in crisp orange linen, that she saw at Chapman Radcliff, a friend of mine is going to recover her great-grandmother's 19th-century loveseat in a similar fabric. My friend liked bright citrusy tones way before they became trendy, so she is fairly confident about the bold hue. (Plus it will really add punch to her neutral-walled rental.)

Simple linens and solid cottons are such a nice counterpoint to rather fussy furniture. More subtle alternatives to bright orange could be spring-green, white or flax. Feels so very Sister Parish!

August Book Club

Book Club reminder: on Monday, August 13, we will start discussing Florence Broadhurst: Her Secret & Extraordinary Lives. Hope you can join us!



Also, the countdown has begun for the release of Lulu, the highly anticipated first book from textile designer Lulu de Kwiatkowski. Art house publisher, Ammo Books, is expected to have the book available by mid-September.

Access to Top Design

Interior design above, Betsy Burnham; photo, Lisa Romerein, as seen in the Fall 2005 issue of InStyle Home.

Have you ever poured-over a vignette like this, with its skillfully layered chinoiserie panels, shell-encrusted lamps, rich wall color and uncontrived family photos, then fantasized about hiring the designer to work her magic in your home? Well, as you may have read in Domino, Betsy Burnham (the L.A. mix-master who created the room above) is a bit more accessible than other top West Coast designers.

Burnham offers an alternative service, Instant Space, for clients willing to do their own leg-work.











Above, samples of sources and plans received by Instant Space clients.

For those who adore Burnham's aesthetic but can't afford (or don't need) her full-service treatment, Instant Space is a way to get a customized master plan carefully thought-out by the designer. Clients answer detailed questions about their home, lifestyle and desires, and provide the firm with digital images and measurements. Most correspondence is via email.

Toward the end of the process, clients receive a box including: a personalized design concept board; a schematic furniture plan, drawn to scale, with specific furniture selected and resourced; samples of fabric, wallpaper, paint, flooring and so on; a shopping list; and a step-by-step guide to bring all of these elements together.



Above, another example of Burnham's look; photo, Grey Crawford.

Kelly Galvin, Director of Instant Space, explained to me, "The great thing about what we do is that it is distinctively Burnham Design. Our style of design is unique. and Instant Space offers a professional service to those who love to do-it-themselves." So, the concept isn't to replace traditional designer-client relationships, but to simply offer another option. Visit Burnham's site for fees and other details.

BTW:
Megan Samuels, another talented California-based designer, offers a similar service, Room To Go. Below is a sample of her work.

Briger + Briger

More book happenings at C. Bell: In October, the lovely boutique owner, Christine, will host a gala to celebrate the release of Briger + Briger: Comfortable and Joyous Homes, City, Country and Lakeside. Designer-collectors, Paul and Cris Briger are described by Christine as "the most divinely happy and interesting couple I know." Last year the couple created an homage to Dorothy Draper at Bergdorf Goodman.

Image below, a child's room featured in Briger + Briger; photography © Michel Zabé, Rizzoli New York, 2007.

Find of the Week: Moorish Lanterns

Christine, of C. Bell, consistently has such great finds. Currently in-store: a pair of 1950s ceramic Moorish hanging lanterns. I love the crisp white. $950 for the pair. C. Bell is located at 4906 South Dixie Highway. (561) 533-6505. (Look for the chic shop in September's Elle Decor.)








As mentioned before, Christine has complete collections of out-of-print Cecil Beaton and David Hicks books.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren, a new book from Rizzoli celebrating the designer's forty-years of creative success, is scheduled to be released in October. Written by Ralph Lauren, it will be available in two editions: deluxe ($400) and regular (about $125). Usually I leave fashion to other bloggers, but with Lauren's enormous impact on American lifestyle as a whole, this title should have crossover appeal.

Thinking Small

At the risk of putting everyone to sleep, I'm sharing these little updates on my guestroom project in hopes of inspiring someone to start with one great piece and slowly build from there -- basically go against the example set by decorating TV shows that radically transform an interior in 24 hours (or even a few weeks).

I try to only buy pieces that seem versatile. The mirror above, for example, is seriously adaptable. My mom spotted it this week at Interiors Market, and the dealer's tag suggested it could be used on the wall or as a chic tray.

(Speaking of decorating flexibility, Vanessa De Vargas and Cote de Texas have encouraged me to consider replacing my pagoda lampshade, above, with a sleeker drum style -- another simple option that could pack real visual punch without knocking down walls.)

Zebra Alternative

Brunschwig & Fils classic "Le Zebre" has appeared in Domino several times. Above, in Carolina Herrera, Jr.'s Madrid home photographed by Eric Cahan for spring/summer 2005. And below, on a headboard featured in the June/July 2007 issue (photo by Annie Schlechter).



"Le Zebre" is gorgeous but pricey -- about $160 per yard. Ballard offers a pretty decent alternative: "Zebra Natural," a cotton blend priced at $30.50 per yard. This pattern is also available on an upholstered headboard, currently reduced to about $613 for a queen size, shown below.





BTW: I like how Vesta Fort used zebra-striped headboards in a little boy's room, below. Ballard's "Safari Brown" is very similar to the fabric Fort used and costs around $15 per yard. Lewis Sheron also has a very budget-friendly animal stripe, "Bengal," priced at about $12 per yard. Preview swatches can be ordered online for $2.50, or you can visit the mammoth Atlanta fabric store located at 912 Huff Road.



Photo above, Paul Costello for Domino, May 2006. Click to see details.

Chinoiserie Fever

Image above is from German AD, December-January 2006.

There's a serious craze for chinoiserie wallpaper happening right now. (It's a happy epidemic though, because the look is so exquisite and timeless.) I thought it would be interesting to share William Haines' legendary "garden room" at Winfield House, the U.S. Ambassador's residence in London.

When Haines decorated the stately home for Ambassador and Mrs. Walter H. Annenberg, circa 1969, he used two-hundred-years-old Chinese wallpaper in the spring-green room.



Above, a more recently decorated interior: a Miles Redd-designed bedroom covered in de Gournay chinoiserie wallpaper, as seen in Elle Decor, November 2006. Photo by Simon Upton.

Related past posts:
Paper to the Max
Fromental's Paradiso
BG by KWID
Wallpaper Panels

Related reading:
Class Act: William Haines Legendary Hollywood Decorator

Kate Spade Holiday Preview 2007

If you are seriously organized, or just a holiday fanatic, you'll be happy to know a new crop of Kate Spade for Crane holiday cards is available online. Again this year, the designs are witty and charming but never too cute. For 2007, Spade is offering many more economical boxed options; last year quite a few of the best cards were only available with pricier custom orders. The cut paper reindeer, above, opens to “happy holidays” printed in charcoal ink, and is paired with a matching white envelope lined in gold. $30 for 10.

Unapologetically Pretty: The Gubelmann Apartment in Elle Decor

Above, Gracie hand-painted wallpaper inspired by a chinoiserie style Syrie Maugham used in Palm Beach in the 1930s.


Photography above William Waldron; Interior design, Cathy Triant Buxton. Click images to enlarge.

The September Elle Decor is brimming with chic images -- 21 gorgeous storage boxes, a weekend home designed by Victoria Hagan, John Barrett's Greenwich Village digs, and even a new renovation guide -- but what strikes me most is Marjorie Gubelmann's New York apartment. It is timeless, yet punctuated with clear energetic colors, and it seems surprisingly child-friendly. (Think cozy glamour.) With its mix of eye-popping multi-colored pillows, simple lacquered side tables, silver lamps, and geometric-covered chairs, I think the living room will inspire many readers working with a less grand space.

BTW: The issue hits newsstands August 14.

Blanc de Chine

Above, bedroom with blanc de chine lamp as seen in Domino, February 2007.



Interior design above, Betsy Burnham; photo by Lisa Romerein, as seen in the Fall 2005 issue of InStyle Home. Note the pagoda lamp.



Above, a vignette with blanc de chine in Megan's home.


Blanc De Chine: Divine Images in Porcelain



Above, one of a pair of white porcelain lamps with charcoal drum shades, from Pieces.

You don't really need me to state the obvious: blanc de chine (a French term for undecorated white porcelain originally made in China during the 17th and 18th centuries) is chic again. Whether it's a repro from Anthropologie or a museum quality piece from Christie's, these pale ceramics appeal to many. I'm already forming a Christmas wish-list of related books. The title above I've mentioned before, but the (unfortunately pricey) volume, Blanc de Chine: History and Connoisseurship Reviewed, is an exciting new find.

Test Patterns

Above, Ruthie Sommers' bedroom photographed by Ngoc Minh Ngo for In Style Home spring 2007; Below, a Schuyler Samperton dressing room photographed by Lisa Romerein for In Style Home spring 2005.



While this page is revamped, here are some old favorites to savor. Related reading: The L.A. House.

Under Construction

Please bear with me over the next week as this blog undergoes renovation. Posting should continue as usual. Thanks for your patience!

Reading related to fabric above: Modern Glamour: The Art of Unexpected Style.

Saturday Shopping: Interiors Market

If you plan to be in Atlanta this weekend, you may want to stop by Interiors Market, on Bennett Street. The place is currently brimming with gorgeous finds, and several dealers have marked-down their wares. Prices for the antique and vintage lighting, furniture and accessories vary greatly, from around $100 to $10,000. It is such a fun place for hunting because you never know what fabulous one-of-a-kind piece you might score.





Above, amazing needlework chinoiserie panels, and a booth ensconced in curtains that appear to be made from Brunschwig & Fils' "Le Lac." For more, see The Peak of Chic on "Le Lac."

William Haines Lamps II

"Design is an opinion, not a profession," once quipped actor-turned decorator, William Haines. The Virginia-born tastemaker had especially strong views on lighting: intriguing custom lamps, often made with museum quality figures as a base, were his signature. Chinoiserie figures and horse-heads seemed to be favorites of Haines. Recently, Beuller Designs found a great pair of Haines-esque lamps at the Venice, California store, Turquoise. I like how she incorporated them in her home, below.



It would be fun to turn vintage horse-head bookends into similar lamps.

Related past posts: Billy Haines and Billy Haines To-Die-For Coffee Table.