As usual, 1st Dibs has a huge selection of fabulous new pieces. Here are some of my favorites:

Glam pair of french cobra sconces

France
1960’s
Pair of French brass sconces in form of a cobra, newly electrified with vintage metal shades. Converted from candle sconces.  This pair would look amazing on either side of a door or a large bookshelf.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=437641

Silver leafed pagoda console by James Mont

USA
1950′S
This Beautiful silver leafed Pagoda console by JAMES MONT retains its original silver leaf finish which is in outstanding condition. The console has three cut out decals which support the pagoda top and has three drawers, with the center one which is braded “JAMES MONT DESIGN”

Measurements
height: 27.25 in.
depth: 19 in.
width/length: 6 ft. 5 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440319

Feather Headdress

Cameroon
late 20th century
Ceremonial feather hat worn by Fon(kings) and senior dignitaries in various kingdoms of the Grassfields region of Cameroon. Originally the coloration of this kind of hat was more subdued and its construction allowed folding in for storage. Later on the colors became more vivid and the construction more rigid. It makes a wonderful and easy to use decorative element.  I love hanging these on walls to add a textural element to the room.  The feathers and the color are fun and bring a bit of whimsy as well.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=441002

A pair of porcelain elephant lamps

Italy
1980’s
A majestic pair of Italian ceramic elephant busts that have been mounted on acrylic
bases and wired as lamps….Funky and fabulous!

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=439732

Beautiful Swedish Rococo Writing Desk

Sweden
Circa 1760
Period Swedish rococo writing desk, circa 1760, with original hardware and secondary blue paint. Three drawers in the bowed front with a smaller drawer just under the drop leaf. The interior features two banks of three drawers on either side, as well as other drawers and compartments. Original bun feet.  This desk is similar to a secretary I purchased for a client ( you can see it in my portfolio).  I can’t tell you how many requests? comments I get on that piece.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440345

Ox Weathervane

American
19th century
Attributed to Howard & Co., Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
Ca. 1854-67.
The imposing size suggests that this Ox Weathervane was made on commission for a large barn. It is perhaps the largest example by Howard & Co. known to date. It is an exceptional piece based on its sculptural form, size, and virtually untouched condition. I love the way the colors fade on this piece.  Measurements:  height: 22 1/2       depth: 6 7/8       width/length: 35 in.

Pressed Botanicals

France
20th Century
A collection of herbiers from the 1900’s. The color preservation is out of this world… they are quite spectacular, but it person they are even more magnificent.

12 available.
Inquire for more photos.
Sold individually.

Measurements
height: 22.5 in.
width/length: 17.25 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=435947

French Console

France
mid 1800’s
Dark walnut shows through the soft, aged gray paint.

Measurements
height: 30 in.
depth: 29 in.
width/length: 10 ft.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=438148

Pair of branch coral lamps on coquina stone bases

USA
Late 20th C.
A pair of branch coral lamps, mounted on coquina stone, with matching finials. I love the green shades and how full the coral branches are. Perfect for a large room that needs some fun.

Measurements

height: 31 in.
width/length: 16″
diameter: 7.5 in.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=439801

19th century anglo indian carved swing

India
19th Century
Fully hand tooled swing, teak wood. Used for the Royal Queen’s palace during British Raj in India.  This is your statement piece.  This would look incredible at the edge of a garden or in a grove.

http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture_item_detail.php?id=440468

Happy Shopping!

xo,

S

I recently met up with the lovely ladies at Vanderhurd to see their latest besopke designs in fabrics, carpets, and accessories and was blown away.  Those who know my design aesthetic know I love color and Vanderhurd’s products do not disappoint in that category.  I have always been a huge fan of their products ( see my previous post on the Crosby Street Hotel in Soho) and was not let down by the latest additions. They offer endless options for carpets: hand woven flat weave wool, linen, hemp, hand-knotted cut pile and loop linen, silk, hand knotted cut pile Nepalese wool/ silk blend, felted wool, Tibetan silk, New Zealand wool….the list goes on and on); fabrics: block printed, hand stitched, hand printed, vintage; and accessories: cloisonné trays and lamps boasting chevron-esque geometric patterns reminiscent of a Missoni print..  A few of my dream carpets, fabrics, and accessories are below.

Above: The pruple, black, and ivory silk dhurrie (Rhonda Amethyst) is a fun choice for a room when paired with neutrals. I love the soft taupe and peach hexagonal silk dhurrie and would pair it with a neutral rough grasscloth on the walls for a livable but beautiful room.

Above: A silk grey and grey stripe dhurrrie with metallic threads woven through.  This would be an amazing runner in a stairwell.  The metallic threads catch the light and the grey is so soothing.

Above: Silk zig zag dhurrie in the most fabulous sorbet colors.  I am picturing this with high gloss lavender walls and white furniture.

Above: The green, black, and aqua carpet on top is a nice thick rug (Cordoba Emerald) made of hand knotted cut pile wool.  The black and white carpet below is made of 100% hemp and is surprisingly soft.  Vanderhurd has also come out with a line of sisal carpets that are truly beautiful.

Above: These linen carpets were a favorite.  I would love to use one instead of sisal.  The colors are so vibrant and the woven linen is beautiful.  The pattern you see above is a hand woven cut pile and a hand woven sumac- creating a tripe like pattern.

Above: Vanderhurd’s hand embroidered textiles are the ultimate in bespoke fabric. Employing intricate French knot, “Satin” and “Kanta” stitches, the collection is available on natural coloured linen or cotton cloth, or on any of the patterned fabrics, and has been designed to compliment their collection of hand printed textiles. In addition to the collection, they can embroider any design in any colour cotton thread on any cloth. The standard width of their base cloths is 44 inches, but requests for custom widths can be accommodated.

Above: more hand embroidered fabrics.

Above: Vanderhurd’s hand printed fabric designs are entirely modern in form and colour, although they derive from antique Indian block print motifs. This marriage of ancient techniques with contemporary design—informed by a great knowledge of the history of textiles, manifests their design philosophy. The textiles are hand block printed or hand screen printed on a selection of natural base cloths—linen, cambric or chanderi—and the colour palette reflects our quintessential juxtaposition of soft and vibrant shades.

Above: a few more examples of their hand embroidered fabrics

Above: Vanderhurd routinely designs custom pillows, bedspreads and headboards, and offers in house upholstery services.

Above: Antique African Indigos.  These Indigos are woven by the Koulongo and Abron weavers from the Bondoukou region of the Cote d’Ivoire and by the Nigerian Yoruba people.  These cloths were woven on small looms as narrow strips, which were then sewn into ”Wrappers” worn as skirts by both men and women.  Vanderhurd New York’s Creative Director, Emilie Jean, an avid collector and dealer of tribal and antique textiles has introduced them to Vanderhurd’s repertoire.  Also, their presence in Vanderhurd’s showroom makes perfect sense, given Vanderhurd’s commitment to handmade, unique textiles, and to sustaining the culture and tradition of exceptional indigenous craftsmanship.

Above: The pale purple and pink silk and the gold silk with chartreuse border are two of Rocio Moreno’s silk fabrics.  Rocio Moreno, a well-known interior designer in Spain, has long been a traveler to India where she developed her collection of exquisite hand-woven silk brocade textiles.  The weavers she works with there are unique in that they continue to employ the complex technique of weaving silk brocades by hand, in the same way as they were produced in the 15^th and 16^th centuries in Venice as well as the Imperial Moghul court in India, where all the court rituals and its economic structure were built up around the symbolism, cost and almost mystical stature of the silk.  Today the weavers Moreno works with continue to produce silks for temples and palaces across the East, for the Dali Lama and the Royal Family of Nepal.  Moreno was fascinated by the workmanship, quality and texture of the brocades.  Up until the weavers produced her designs, they had only ever produced very traditional textiles.  Moreno’s designs are totally modern in form and colour, although they are derived from Ottoman motifs.  The result of this marriage of ancient techniques with contemporary design informed by a great knowledge of the history of textiles is Rocio Moreno’s collection, and as such, very much in the spirit of Vanderhurd.

Above: Their beautiful cloisonne trays and lamps.

To see many more examples of their beautiful work visit their website: http://www.vanderhurd.com/

xo,

S

One of our favorite companies has just introduced 60 new styles of mirrors, accent furniture, chandeliers, and objects. I will be seeing them in person soon at the New York Gift Show. Can’t wait!

Blake mirror: Now is white! Crafted from crushed Kabibi shells.  The shell is hand cut and molded in a soft, ruffled, round design.

Dawn mirror: Inspired by a beautiful vintage necklace, thin metal rods wrap a central mirror and terminate with a slight flare. This is a personal favorite.

Diana mirror: An updated version of a Venetian style mirror. A large round mirror framed with an antique mirror border that has back etched circles and floral motif overlays.

Fiona mirror: A geometric floral motif with a narrow border in three different materials ( bone, metal, and mirror).

Tavis mirror: A zebraesque pattern in black and white created with shells.

Anna: New colors for the faux shagreen boxes accented with ceramic shell handles.

Elmas: cream and brown patterned bone tray

Gala: Carved bone boxes with an oval shape

Lila: Hand painted silk panels with a floral motif.

Ines chair: Traditional Rajasthan bone inlay updated with a simplified pattern, fresh colors, and a quality linen seat cover.  Perfect for a desk or dining chair.

Henry:  Made with over 100 bead drops and finished with two types of circular discs: luminous mother of pearl and translucent capis.  Finished with antique gold metal detailing. Very glam.

Silvana: A classic empire chandelier is made fresh and airy through the use of pure white shells. An antiqued silver frame reinforces the casual vintage vibe

Many Made Goods products are available through Mecox Gardens ( www.mecoxgardens.com ) or contact us for pricing and availability.

xo,

S

Summer is my favorite season and that is due, in large part, to all of the summer days and nights spent in Newport, RI. The seaside town is set amidst historic buildings, cobble stone streets, and some of the nations best known ( and impeccably preserved) mansions.  You can charter a motor or sail boat to take in the spectacular coast line or hop on a bike or walk the city to get a feel for it’s charming streets.

1. Grace Kelly and Louis Armstrong on the set of High Society filmed in Newport. A must see!

2. Dinner and dancing at The Sky Bar on the top floor of The Clark Cooke House. After 11:30 pm the tables are cleared and the DJ starts spinning, finish up the evening with a rendition of “God Bless America”.  The heirloom tomato salad and lobster ravioli are my favorite dishes.  Make sure to save room for their famous “Snowball in Hell” for dessert (a chocolate brownie, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and shaved coconut lit on fire).

3. Surfing at Bailey’s as photographed by Slim Aarons

4. Newport to Bermuda Race June 2010

1. Grab a cocktail ( preferably a dark n’ stormy) and watch the sun set on the lawn of The New York Yacht Club.  On a side note, I was married here and it is one of my favorite locations.

2. Images 2,3,6, and 7 are various levels of The Clark Cooke House ( the Sky Bar is the top) which in my opinion, is the best restaurant in town for dinner.

4. The Newport Bridge at Sunset

5. The Black Pearl is located right next to the Cooke House on Bannisters Wharf and is the perfect spot for lunch or go to the annex for a hot dog and clam chowder.

7. The Boom Boom Room is the night club in the basement of The Clark Cooke House.

1. and 2. The Elms was the summer residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind of Philadelphia and New York. Mr. Berwind made his fortune in the Pennsylvania coal industry. In 1898, the Berwinds engaged Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer to design a house modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d’Asnieres (c.1750) outside Paris. Construction of The Elms was completed in 1901 at a cost reported at approximately $1.4 million. The interiors and furnishings were designed by Allard and Sons of Paris and were the setting for the Berwinds’ collection of Renaissance ceramics, 18th century French and Venetian paintings, and Oriental jades. The elaborate Classical Revival gardens on the grounds were developed between 1907 and 1914. They include terraces displaying marble and bronze sculpture, a park of fine specimen trees and a lavish lower garden featuring marble pavilions, fountains, a sunken garden and carriage house and garage. These gardens were recently restored.

Mrs. Berwind died in 1922, and Mr. Berwind invited his sister, Julia, to become his hostess at his New York and Newport houses. Mr. Berwind died in 1936 and Miss Julia continued to summer at The Elms until her death in 1961, at which time the house and most of its contents were sold at public auction. The Preservation Society of Newport County purchased The Elms in 1962 and opened the house to the public. In 1996, The Elms was designated a National Historic Landmark.

3. The Tea House at Marble House. Marble House was built between 1888 and 1892 for Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt, a summer house, or “cottage”, as Newporters called them in remembrance of the modest houses of the early 19th century. But Marble House was much more; it was a social and architectural landmark that set the pace for Newport’s subsequent transformation from a quiet summer colony of wooden houses to the legendary resort of opulent stone palaces.

Mr. Vanderbilt was the grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, who established the family’s fortune in steamships and the New York Central Railroad. His older brother was Cornelius II, who built The Breakers. Alva Vanderbilt was a leading hostess in Newport society, and envisioned Marble House as her “temple to the arts” in America. It was designed by the architect Richard Morris Hunt, inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles. The cost of the house was reported in contemporary press accounts to be $11 million, of which $7 million was spent on 500,000 cubic feet of marble. Upon its completion, Mr. Vanderbilt gave the house to his wife as a 39th birthday present. The Vanderbilts had 3 children: Consuelo, who became the 9th Duchess of Marlborough; William K., Jr., a prominent figure in pioneering the sport of auto racing in America; and Harold, one of the finest yachtsmen of his era who successfully defended the America’s Cup three times. The Vanderbilts divorced in 1895 and Alva married Oliver H.P. Belmont, moving down the street to Belcourt. After his death, she reopened Marble House, and had a Chinese Tea House built on the seaside cliffs, where she hosted rallies for women’s right to vote. She sold the house to Frederick H. Prince in 1932. The Preservation Society acquired the house in 1963 from the Prince estate.  In 2006, Marble House was designated a National Historic Landmark

4. The Breakers is the grandest of Newport’s summer “cottages” and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in turn of the century America. Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) established the family fortune in steamships and later in the New York Central Railroad, which was a pivotal development in the industrial growth of the nation during the late 19th century. The Commodore’s grandson, Cornelius Vanderbilt II, became Chairman and President of the New York Central Railroad system in 1885, and purchased a wooden house called The Breakers in Newport during that same year. In 1893, he commissioned architect Richard Morris Hunt to design a villa to replace the earlier wood-framed house which was destroyed by fire the previous year. Hunt directed an international team of craftsmen and artisans to create a 70 room Italian Renaissance- style palazzo inspired by the 16th century palaces of Genoa and Turin. Allard and Sons of Paris assisted Hunt with furnishings and fixtures, Austro-American sculptor Karl Bitter designed relief sculpture, and Boston architect Ogden Codman decorated the family quarters.

The Vanderbilts had seven children. Their youngest daughter, Gladys, who married Count Laszlo Szechenyi of Hungary, inherited the house on her mother’s death in 1934. An ardent supporter of The Preservation Society of Newport County, she opened The Breakers in 1948 to raise funds for the Society. In 1972, the Preservation Society purchased the house from her heirs. Today, the house is designated a National Historic Landmark.

5. and 6. Doris Duke’s Rough Point. Frederick W. Vanderbilt built this vast English Manorial house in 1889 on a dramatic, windswept promontory on Newport’s Cliff Walk, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. In 1922, James B. Duke, the founder of fortunes in electric power and tobacco, and benefactor of Duke University, purchased Rough Point. In 1925, James Duke died, leaving his enormous financial legacy to twelve-year-old Doris, his only child. Rough Point became one of Doris’s several very private retreats.

Doris Duke had a keen eye as a collector and followed this passion throughout her life. Representative artists within the collection include Renoir, Van Dyck, and Joshua Reynolds as well as artisans of the Ming Dynasty. Upon her death in 1993, she bequeathed the estate to the Newport Restoration Foundation, the organization she founded to help preserve Newport Rhode Island’s architectural heritage.

7. The Tennis Hall of Fame

Places To Stay:

1. The Inn at Castle Hill overlooks the mouth of Newport Harbor and Jamestown.

To reserve a room: http://www.castlehillinn.com/

2. The Chanler Hotel is perched right above 1st Beach at the beginning of the Cliff Walk.

To reserve a room: http://www.thechanler.com/

3. The Hotel Viking is the perfect spot to be right in the center of town.  From here it is an easy walk to tour the mansions, browse antiques on Spring Street, or walk down to dinner on Thames Street.

To reserve a room: http://www.hotelviking.com/

Real Estate: Below are a selection of beautiful homes that are currently for sale in Newport. Visit  www.liladelman.com or www.gustavewhite.com for details.

If you want to see more of Newport and read about the architects and the people whose homes they designed go to amazon for the following books:

www.amazon.com

xo,

S

To me, summer is all about casual vibrant living. Weather that includes an exotic destination vacation, your weekend beach house, and just sipping lemonade in your backyard with friends. You can redo an entire room or beachy splashes of color or just change the throw pillows on your sofa. See below for ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Fabrics and Throw Pillows:

Quadrille: What is there not to love about Quadrille. You see their prints in magazines all the time and there is good reason! Chic and timeless with vibrant colors.

Potalla print shown above in both images as well as below

Saya Gata shown above and in image above

Ferns shown above and in image above

Cap Ferrat

Soho

Petite Zig Zag

http://quadrillefabrics.com/collections_alan.html

Aleta On Line Store:

http://aletaonline.infodine.com/index.php

Kathryn Ireland On Line Store: Her fabrics are divine and you can now purchase throw pillows:

http://kathrynirelandstore.bigcartel.com/category/kathryn-ireland-pillows

Rubie Green: Eco chic, Rubie Green’s fabric line and fun and you can sleep soundly knowing you have done your part for the environment.

http://rubiegreen.com/fabrics.html

Les Indiennes: Mary Mulachy developed linens that are fresh, simple, authentically indian, yet pleasing to the western eye.

These pillows are the perfect companions for a white chino slip covered sofa and a thickly woven jute rug.

http://www.lesindiennesshop.com/index.aspx

Carolina Irving: The vibrant colors printed on beautiful linen never fail to brighten my mood. I cannot choose a favorite.

http://carolinairvingtextiles.com/Fabric.html

Katie Ridder:

How much fun to make drapes in your summer house guest bedroom out of Katie Ridders fabrics.

Parlor Textiles: We are loving Anglea Clinton’s textiles! The patterns are beautiful and reflect her modern sensibility.

http://www.parlortextiles.com/index.html

Madeline Weinrib pillows- the perfect solution for a white sofa. Weather you choose a silk ikat, a block print, or an embroidered suzani you cannot go wrong. She also makes large floor pillows.

http://madelineweinrib.com/mw/ikat/index.html

Carpets:

Wisteria:

http://www.wisteria.com/Graphic-Flat-Weave-Rug-Blue/productinfo/W4045/

http://www.wisteria.com/Apple-Green-Striped-Dhurrie/productinfo/W4042/

William Sonoma Home:

http://www.wshome.com/products/p1195/index.cfm?pkey=crugs%2Dcrewels%2Dneedlepoints

** On sale!

http://www.wshome.com/products/p1196/index.cfm?pkey=crugs%2Dcrewels%2Dneedlepoints

** On Sale!

Madeline Weinrib carpets are a fun and inexpensive way to pack a punch.

http://madelineweinrib.com/carpetindex.html

Dash and Albert: We use these rugs all the time. The cotton weaves and indoor/ outdoor are ou favorite. You cannot beat the price point and they are very durable.

http://www.dashandalbert.com/

Furniture With Texture:

Opt for a textured bed or chair to bring the beach inside:

http://www.wshome.com/products/p1204/index.cfm?pkey=gthmbas

http://www.wshome.com/products/p1211/index.cfm?pkey=gthmbas

** we just used two of these in a show house- beautiful in person…and they are on sale now!

Ralph Lauren:

http://www.ralphlaurenhome.com/products/Furniture/?haid=5

Shabby Chic: This brand is known for their laid back, deliciously squishy slip covered furniture.

http://www.mycremebrulee.com/furniture_page1_files/Beecroft_Sofa.html

Bed Linens:

Leontine Linens:

Classic New England prepster

Beautiful and understated celadon applique

Perfect for your little pirate!

http://www.leontinelinens.com/index.php/bed/

If custom linens are not in the beach house budget…

We love prints and the linens below can be the focal point of a bedroom.

Paint the walls a soft hydrangea lilac and white wooden shutters and you have a tranquil seaside retreat.

http://www.wshome.com/products/p9100/index.cfm?pkey=csheets%2Dbed%2Dsheet%2Dsets

Pair this coral with soft yellow or pale blue walls.

Hang a grasscloth on the walls and ceilings and paint the moldings a crisp white.

http://www.luludkmatouk.com/patterns/index.html

OR…. Keep it classic with rope embroidered bedding. Choose a spicy fabric for your drapes and a grasscloth on the walls.

http://www.wshome.com/products/p4001/index.cfm?pkey=csheets%2Dbed%2Dsheet%2Dsets

The Table:

We love a classic greek key pattern and Pomegranate Inc. has nailed it:

Below is one of their embroidered place mats:

Their chunky straw place mat with a shell is a nice touch:

http://www.pomegranateinc.com/store.htm

Les Indiennes:

You can use as a table cloth or a spread on the beach for a picnic.

http://www.lesindiennesshop.com/index.aspx

Roberta Roller Rabbit: Fun prints on cotton- a great gift for your hostess:

http://store01.prostores.com/servlet/robertarollerrabbit/the-Home/Categories

Ralph Lauren: Classic all american summer.

http://www.ralphlauren.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=4006050&cp=1760785&ab=int_060210_HOMELP_LAPLAGE_SHOPNOW

xo,

S

One of my favorite designers is holding a tag sale this Saturday on One Kings Lane- Bunny Williams! You will have special access to Bunny’s hand-picked treasures at up to 70% off retail.

A few of my favorite rooms designed by Bunny are below:

Visit the sale on Saturday: http://www.onekingslane.com/Events.aspx

Happy Shopping!

xo,

S

Sorry to be M.I.A.- we have been out in “the field” shooting a completed project in East Hampton, installing clients on the Upper East Side and Tribeca, and scheming up a storm for an upcoming show house! No time to update the blog. In all of this madness we found the time to join a fabulous new website called Decorator Tag Sale ( www.decoratortagsale.com )

Finding the perfect piece of designer furniture for your home has never been easier! Decorator Tag Sale brings buyers and sellers from all across the world together on one site to view home furnishings chosen by famous designers.

From modern furniture designs to vintage antiques, designer furniture to collectibles, Decorator Tag Sale offers the consumer an opportunity to visit a decorator’s warehouse online and purchase their high-end furniture at discounted prices.

There are many fabulous designers who joined and have posted pieces they selected now on sale to the general public. Among them are Amanda Nisbet, Christopher Coleman, John Loecke, and….us!

The site was written up in the New york Times on Thursday and has been getting lots of visitors. Some of the items you will find include:

Click on the following link for a one way ticket to accessorizing your home: http://decoratortagsale.com/designer-view/?d=273&page=1

Happy Shopping!

xo,

S

Last night I attended the opening of the Natasha Law and Lucy Soni exhibition showing at the Diane von Furstenberg Gallery. Playing with the idea that both Law and Soni employ a concentration of vivid colors in their respective works, it is as if each is dipping into the same paint bowl. Viewed together, the works celebrate color, form, and, gesture, and yet uphold each painter’s singular and distinctive compositional artistry.

The exhibition was beautiful- with all of the vivid colors jumping of the stark white gallery walls it was hard to pick a favorite. One of my clients managed to do so and I know they will be thrilled with their new piece!

Natasha Law has gained international recognition for her signature female silhouettes. Rendered in a variety of media, including high-gloss paint on aluminum and assembled cut paper, Law’s works observe color, tone, and contrast. She examines the movements of bodies and flesh in space, and the folds and shapes that create forms, figures, and the experience of the body in the world. At once soft and bold, delicate and strong, each work is sensitively delivered and entirely emotive. Educated at Camberwell College of Arts, in London, Law shows with Eleven Fine Art, in London, and through Voltz Clarke, in Manhattan. Voltz Clarke featured Law in the solo show FOLD in 2006.

Lucy Soni examines the dichotomy between mother and child, the yearning of parents to protect and control, and the desire of the trained artist to manage the naïve. Moved by her infant daughter’s crayon scribbles, Soni first began incorporating unlearned marks into abstract colored pencil drawings. Over the course of two years, these drawings developed into large-scale oil canvases, which were highlighted by Voltz Clarke in December of 2005. That group show, LONDON BRIDGES, also included works by Shane Bradford and Michael Marra. Born in Kent, England, Soni received her degree from the Chelsea College of Art and Design, in London.

Go and see for yourself:

Opening: May 19, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Viewing: May 19 to June 2, and afterwards by private appointment ( email info@voltzclarke.com )
Location: Diane von Furstenberg Gallery, 440 West 14th Street, New York, New York

xo,

S

I was referred to this article in Garden & Gun ( don’t you just love the name of this magazine?) by one of my cousins and I had to get this out there.

If you’re looking for an original piece of Kentucky Thoroughbred history, chances are George Gatewood of Longwood Antique Woods has it. Based in Lexington, Gatewood specializes in reclaiming horse barns slated for demolition or no longer in use. But these aren’t just any old horse barns. Gatewood’s collection includes such finds as original stall doors from Faraway Farm, the birthplace of Triple Crown winner War Admiral, and hoof-worn paving bricks from Hamburg Place, the stomping grounds of multiple Kentucky Derby winners since its founding in 1898.

Gatewood’s mission began when he watched a bulldozer barrel through his family’s 200-year-old farmhouse in Mount Sterling, Kentucky, to make room for an industrial park. “It was just awful to watch,” he says. Since then, his team has meticulously pulled some two million nails from 500 structures, preserving wood and other materials that otherwise would have been lost to history.

For do-it-yourselfers, Gatewood will ship the materials directly to you, or his team can also install antique flooring, beams, and mantels, or even create one-of-a-kind furniture. “These barns are not being used,” he says. “They will expire and fall back into the earth. It’s nice to know you can sacrifice those buildings and someone will honor them for a long time to come.”

You can see the magazine and the above article on Garden & Gun’s website: www.gardenandgun.com

Visit the Longwood website and look for everything from salvaged beams, to doors, to log cabins: http://www.longwoodantiquewoods.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2&Itemid=5

xo,

S

In need of a break? Is there weather still a bit too cool for you? Get on Jetsetter and book yourself a vacation at a deep discount!

Hotel Luca- Napa Valley

Perfectly situated in Yountville, this boutique hotel offers you access to their Italian restaurant on site with a complimentary breakfast as well as a spa for that much needed massage after a long day of vineyard hopping. Yountville is also home to a few of my favorite spots: Maisonry, Bouchon, Bistro Jeanty, and French Laundry.

Round Hill- Jamaica

The interiors were designed by Ralph Lauren so you can expect a high end but relaxed vibe. Amazing views of the Caribbean from the restaurant, your room, and the infinity edge pool. You will also get a discount on your jet blue flight!

Fairmont- Southampton, Bermuda

Sink your toes into the warm pink sand f Bermuda’s beaches will sipping a Dark and Stormy. This 100 acre plantation estate boasts an ocean-view golf course, tennis center, and nine restaurants and bars.

El Bulli Hotel – Seville, Spain

Food and wine, a gourmet paradise. The 44 room Andalusian hotel is built around a 1,100-year old farmhouse. Bedrooms boast soaring ceilings with hand painted murals. Stroll among gardens carefully lined with orange trees and Mediterranean herbs, lounge by the pool on a luxurious day bed, or consider a massage in the spa. The hotel is quite but you can make the 25 minute drive into Seville for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Osprey- Beaver Creek

Is your idea of a getaway wide open spaces in the wild west? The Osprey is right on the mountain at Beaver Creek allowing their guests access to hiking, biking, fly fishing, golf, etc.

Sign up for free at Jetsetter: http://www.jetsetter.com/sales

Happy Travels.

xo,

S

For all you linen lovers the talented Deborah Sharpe is featured on One Kings Lane.
An erstwhile art-gallery owner and editor, Deborah Sharpe brings a strong sense of color and design to her eponymous line of linens.
It all began twenty years ago, when she discovered a Florentine company founded in 1912 by three Italian sisters with [...]

One King’s Lane is featuring sales from Stark today! I turn to stark when I need a special fabric, wall covering, or carpet. They are a high quality vendor with gorgeous merchandise. Don’t miss the sale….

Fabrics designed by Oscar De La Renta, Missoni, Old World Weavers, Fonthill, and more. Whether you’re looking to re-cover a pillow, the sofa, or create brand-new ceiling-to-floor drapes to add drama and height to a room, you’ll find the fabric of your dreams here! Come get inspired by a sensational selection of cottons, silks, damasks, jacquards, multidimensional modern blends, traditional toiles and more, sold in two-yard increments for all your do-it-yourself projects!

Paint: 57 beautiful shades of Colours by David Oliver—an exciting, eco-friendly new paint line created for Stark by David Oliver, design director of London’s noted Paint & Paper Library Each is available in your choice of Velvet Emulsion, Porcelain Shell and Lacquer Gloss finish.

Wall Coverings: Traditional and contemporary, solid and patterned, in a range of textures, colors and finishes.

Sisal Carpets: Flat-woven from tough natural fibers like sisal and seagrass, these rugs are a perfect choice if you’re looking for elegant, low-maintenance floor covering for almost any room in your home. More durable than many synthetic carpets, these flatweave rugs are inherently stain-resistant, static-free, and require less vacuuming than both wool and synthetic fiber rugs. Stark offers an assortment, in chic textures from diamond-check to herringbone to chic neutrals. We use sisal all the time. It helps make a more formal room approachable and when used wall to wall can make your small soace feel bigger. Layer carpets on top for a relaxed feel.

The sale starts at 11 am today: http://www.onekingslane.com/Events.aspx

Happy Shopping!

xo,

S

I design a home with the client in mind. I want their personality to shine through rather than mine. Their friends should walk in and know who lives there rather than ask “who designed your home?” The same goes with fashion, and last nights Met Ball had a number of personalties dressed by the best designers in the world. Some of my favorite modern American looks below:

Calvin Klein designer Francisco Costa created simple, classic, and timeless gowns for Zoe Saldana and Diane Kruger.

Mr America himself, Michael Kors escorted Brooke Shields in one of his creations.

Another Kors masterpiece.

Rachel Weisz in Oscar De La Renta ( Oprah was also wearing Oscar)

Country singer Taylor Swift couldn’t look more all-American in Ralph Lauren

American model, Amber Valetta in RM by Roland Mouret. I love the clean classic lines.

America’s sweetheart, Kate Hudson glams it up in Stella McCartney. Glimmering gold, clean lines, and a tan.

Kerry Washington wore a bold red Thakoon number ( one of the First Lady’s favorite designers).

Though this may not be a dress I would wear…who looks better than Gisele and Tom Brady??

Barry Diller and Diane Von Furstenburg. I love that she wore stars!

Nicole Richie paired her darker locks with a Marc Jacobs gown.

Not all were in gowns… Alexa Chung wore Philip Lim. Perfection.

How stunning does Camilla Belle look in her Jason Wu gown?

Sienna Miller wore Pucci. I love the low cut top with the fuller bottom.

Naomi Watts in Lanvin. I love the color, the shoulder, and her clutch.

The ladies of Marchesa and Eva Longoria. Georgina Chapmans feathers may have been a bit warm for last night but the dress is still stunning.

America’s Gossip Girl, Blake Lively looked gorgeous in Marchesa as well. I love the shoulder and the hem of the dress. Her Christian Louboutin shoes are also fabulous.

Channeling her inner Betty Draper, January Jones donned an embroidered YSL dress with more modern make-up.

xo,

S

The soaring temperatures in New York City (85 degrees today!) make me want to have a rooftop party. Whether you have an apartment in the city, a beach house on the coast, or a place in the country all you need is a little space and your closest friends gathered under one of these fabulous tents!

Available for rent or for sale these tents are exquisite. Instant atmosphere. They provide a place to hide from the sun or the rain. The tents are also perfect for a dinner party ( think glowing floor and table lanterns and lots of bright fabrics.)

The above table setting featured in Elle Decor October 2009 is a perfect pairing:

Clockwise from top left: Gooseberry pierced bowl by Michael Aram. Glasgow tumbler by Theresienthal. Trocadero glass by Nasonmoretti from Seguso Viro. Golden Morning cup from Neue Galerie Design Shop. Chevrons Gold presentation plate by Hermès. Perl dinner plate by Nymphenburg. Dhara lunch and bread-and-butter plates by Philippe Deshoulières. Troia flatware by Pampaloni from Bergdorf Goodman. Rice bowl by Jaune de Chrome from Takashimaya New York. Background of Cherry Satin Jam fabric by Madeline Weinrib.

Why not have this pergola tent set up permanently in your yard for afternoon reads or lunches. A magical spot for grown-ups and children to gather under for an Alice in Wonderland tea party.

Above photographs were shot by Annie Liebovitz for Vogue December 2003

I love both table settings above for an Alice and Wonderland themed party. Playful and whimsical.

Being a New England girl, I flipped for these beach tents. I would love to have a clambake on the beach with these fun tents as spots to change for a dip in the ocean!

Red, white, and blue table setting featured in Elle Decor October 2009 is a fun twist on Americana for a 4th of July bash:

Red, white, and blue table setting: Clockwise from top right: Sag Harbor Stripe water glass by Kate Spade New York. Wonki Ware’s Organic dinner plate from Bergdorf Goodman. Diamond lunch plate and Dot dessert plate by Ellen Evans for Terrafirma Ceramics. Alain Saint-Joanis’s Mistral flatware from Bergdorf Goodman. Napkin by Madeline Weinrib. Bubble double old-fashioned glass by Kim Seybert. Vine plate from Dandelion. Background of Malabar fabric by Bennison

For more information on these tents visit: http://www.rajtentclub.com/

xo,

S

Heading down to Palm Beach for a long weekend for some fun in the sun and lots of antiquing for clients!

xo,

S