
It's true that most of Baldwin's clients had large decorating budgets, but I think perhaps he had seen quite a few over-the-top rooms in his day. He preferred understated things and seemed to contemplate what makes good design, regardless of cost.
Here are a few of his tips that I find enduring:
"The appearance of simplicity and honesty. Rooms suitable for their use and created with an awareness of budget and maintenance cost."
"Cotton everywhere."
"Lots of white."
"Clear clean colors...fresh flowers always."
"The use of small-scale upholstered chairs, easily moved."
BTW: I was flattered to be asked to contribute to this November In Style story since the ultimate deal finder, Grace, a.k.a. design*sponge, was involved too. Be sure and see her page in the magazine.
21 comments:
That "cotton everywhere" made me re-think my entire philosophy. The book is an inspiration; your picks are, too.
Well, I hope they are Patricia -- thanks.
Aren't you already sort of a cotton-linen woman? Maybe I'm projecting?
I am, but I have a weakness for silk. I can't help myself.
There really is nothing quite as appealing as creamy white trim and walls. I particularly like Farrow and Ball's color Pointing. It has the perfect amount of warmth to act as a backdrop for treasures of any kind in any room.
Thanks for the tip DS :)
Interesting. You're right. There's nothing like timeless design.
thanks sandra. Glad you stopped by.
Now you know my secrets, as I have taken many pages from Mr. Baldwin's book, and made good use of them!
Mrs. Draper also has excellent thrifty advice in her recently reissued "Decorating Id Fun!"
xo xo xo
A man after my own heart ~ great post! Just got the November Domino ~ great to see you there!
Thanks Janet!
Well spoken words! Thanks Courtney!
Well spoken words! Thanks Courtney!
A great source of inspiration (you and Billy B!). I'd also add that nothing dates a room like old-fashioned lamp shades.
Amen Jennifer!
I meant Amen to the lampshades!!
This book ALWAYS inspires me (while Billy Baldwin Remembers makes me laugh - esp. the "thorns in his crown."). Here's another one from BB that should help you with this challenge:
Not everything that makes a room appealing costs a great deal of money. Some things cost a lot of money, some very little, some none at all. These are the details that make the difference between a perfectly nice room and one that is full of life and charm.
For instance: I’ve always believed that architecture is more important than decoration. Scale and proportion give everlasting satisfaction that cannot be achieved by only icing the cake.
Can't wait to see your feature!
Becky
Becky -- that's the best quote of all. You are spot on! Thanks!
You're welcome! Whenever I'm struggling for a post, I turn to Billy as well! I think he's on my Top 5 People I'd Love to Have to a Dinner Party!
becky
What a great dinner party.
Inspiring blog!
CdP -- thank you!
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