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

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

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

A cottage in Southampton designed by Timothy Whealon below:

The lucite table gives the dining room a light, airy, modern feeling.

I love painted floors and this brown and white diamond pattern works beautifully with the cabinetry.

A cottage in Southampton by Chiqui and Nena Woolworth below:

The colors and patterns in this home are right up my alley.

Cottage designed by Emma Pilkington below:

Though this room has a neutral vibe, the sofa, club chair, and drapes are all patterned fabrics.  The stair rail, lamp, cocktail table, and ikat throw pillows ground the room with their deep chocolate color.

Plum silk ikat club chairs, olive green and plum muriel brandolini fabric for the drapes, pale blue walls, teal side table, and acid yellow pillows all work well together to create an interesting yet soothing room.

Keep it simple with a few statement pieces: an otherwise simple room is dressed up with a shell chandelier and mirrored center table.

Privet hedge, pool, and bright green grass- nothing better!

Home designed by David Lawrence below:

Bold blue and white with crisp clean lines and painted white woodwork keeps this beach house camera ready.

Home designed by Markham Roberts below:

A large living room with multiple seating areas is ideal.  Family can all be together while having their own space.  This is also a great set up for entertaining.

The grasscloth on the walls and the white bead board make this entrance hall soothing and inviting.  The built-in bookcase breaks up the long hall.  They suspended it to create the feeling of a wider hall.

A traditional and cozy bedroom in cool blue and whites.

I love built-in seating and this particular spot is the perfect place to curl up and read while taking in the view.

Plan a trip and stay at one of my favorite inns:

Amagansett:

The Reform Club:

Recently opened and just written up in Town and Country this is a spot I am dying to try. A renovation of a run-down shingle-covered bed and breakfast, opened last summer in the discreet East Hampton hamlet of Amagansett, where the neighbors include Gwyneth Paltrow, Paul McCartney, and Jerry Seinfeld. The look in the seven suites and three cottages is breezy and low-key: white wood paneling, taupe sofas, linen-covered headboards, embroidered bedspreads. Each suite and cottage has different contemporary art—a headless, one-armed woman makes frequent appearances in prints and paintings—a coffee table piled high with art and history tomes, iPod dock, and, best of all, a working fireplace. Voluminous bathrooms with mosaic floors (ours had his and hers walk-in showers) and Kiehl’s products are another highlight. Unless you’re at the beach or browsing East Hampton’s pricey boutiques (be driven to either in the hotel’s SUV, or borrow a bike), you’ll be tempted to stay in your own quarters, which include a terrace in most cases. Spring for a one-bedroom cottage and have your very own house in the Hamptons.

Website:  http://reformclubinn.com/main.html

East Hampton:

1770 House East Hampton:

Located at the beginning of Main Street this Inn offers charm and delicious food all within walking distance of town center. Originally built as a home, the Inn dates back to 1663.  However, it was not until 1770 when the home was converted into an inn that it gained its name.  The inn has retained much of its original architecture and colonial charm.  The steep wooden staircase, exposed wooden beams, and book lined lounge with antique fireplace are only a few elements that make this Inn warm and inviting.  With just 6 rooms and a private carriage house ( all equipped with flat screen TVs, Frette bed linens and some with fireplaces) this small Inn has an intimate and private feeling.  The restaurant is one of my favorites in town ( along with Nick and Toni’s and Della Femina) offering up many local foods and a fabulous wine list.

Website: http://www.1770house.com/

The Hedges Inn:

Recently refreshed with a multimillion-dollar renovation ( 2008) and a fabulous location ( steps from town center) this Inn is a great pick.  Beadboard wainscoting, beachy pastel hues, antique reproduction furniture, and flat-screen TVs outfit the 12 rooms, which also have marble-clad bathrooms.  There’s no restaurant or pool, but East Hampton’s restaurants are a ten-minute walk away, and guests receive parking permits to nearby East Hampton Village Beaches (along with beach chairs and towels) as well as passes to the East Hampton Gym.

Website: http://www.thehedgesinn.com/

Mill House Inn:

This Inn is a 19th century house with iPod decks and flat screen TVs with 11 individually decorated rooms.  They do a fabulous job of mixing the old with the new, bathrooms are recently updated and 5 rooms are dog friendly.  Located a few steps from the center of town but maintaining a calm quiet this is a wonderful choice for your getaway weekend.

Website: http://www.millhouseinn.com/

xo,

S

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

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

The colors, the plants, the textures, the drama! Tony Duquette does not leave a single surface untouched. This room feels magical to me.  It would never get old or fail to excite.  It is cozy yet full of energy. Perfection.

Another famous room…Miles Redd’s apartment.  Bold and fabulous- the zebra upholstered doors with nail head trim are stunning. This is a great way to make a less than attractive door amazing.

A large fiddle leaf fig tree and wild green zebra print sofas leave no doubt in your mind this room is for fun.

Dark black grasscloth on the walls and a black glossy ceiling let the runner and scarlet roman shade pop.

Gil Schafer’s New York apartment. Perfection.

These coastal green walls remind me of marshes found along the new england coastline. Mixed with rattan furniture and wildlife prints this room is interesting and relaxing.

Hinson wallpaper

These two tall fiddle leaf fig trees make an otherwise simple hallway dramatic.

Dark greeny-black bead board walls make this room a cool escape from hot summer days.

Dark mossy green walls create a beautiful backdrop for lighter fabrics to pop.

Aerin Lauder’s zippy orange walls and leopard print sofa are bold and very chic.

A deep red library with cushy brown velvet sofas, brass lamps, and a zebra skin rug.

The orchid wallpaper by Cole and Son makes an otherwise boring powder room a treat to visit.

The Hinson bana leaf wallpaper used in this kitchen lends drama and height to the room.

xo,

S

This is a library we did for a manhattan couple.  I love a dark sultry room in the house.  It is a great room to unwind in at the end of the day with a cocktail and a great book.  These rooms have a bit of whimsy and a lot of intrigue.  With the right lighting, texture, and color you can set the mood for a cozy night in.

To see Marni’s post visit her site: http://www.theinsidesource.com/topics/home-and-garden/view/trendlet-alert-jungle-look/

xo,

S

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

Relaxed beach house designed by James Howard

The shape of the bottom of the roman shade is great.  A fabric roman shade is a great way to warm up an otherwise sterile kitchen and the shape at the bottom follows the pattern – showing you put some thought into the details.

I am a huge fan of tortoise shell blinds – a chic way to add privacy to a room while letting in sunlight.  The wicker sofa and club chair are in two different stains. A white painted bobble chair and two different side tables  added to the mix show how a room can feel pulled together without being matchy-matchy. The pair of glass lamps unifies the space. The green and white stripe on the sofa and club chair are a great summery touch.

The above image is a close up of the wave molding and the upholstered linen walls in the dining room.  I adore upholstered walls and done in this neutral linen adds texture and softness to a room without feeling fussy.

To create symmetry in the room they made an arched bookshelf to mirror the arch of the door. Thus creating a space where two side chairs feel comfortable.  Again we see the white painted bobble chair and a pretty rope backed Orkney chair.  The walls are painted in a pale but strong blue.

I have always loved Oscar de la Renta’s 4 poster bed with the crenallated canopy.  The canopy adds a sense of whimsy and security when you are snuggled up for the night.  The bench has a fun base shape and the soft blue gray walls create a tranquil yet happy guest bedroom. I love the turquoise gourd lamp from Mrs. Howard- what a great pop of color.

The page above included a variety of valance styles. All beautiful and with distinctively different feels.

Another favorite was the Historic New York House With Color by Jeffrey Bilhuber.

I love Jeffrey Bilhuber’s designs so I was thrilled to see his Locust Valley, New York country home “Hay Fever” that dates back to 1668. I think he definitely succeeded in keeping the “soul” in this house. Nothing feels precious but the colors are magical- just what you want in a summer home.

The black painted pine floor ( look at those floor boards!) lets the sisal carpet and soft blues and yellows float off the floor.  You can paint a floor black and still have a light airy feeling room.  I love how he threw in a punch of purple on the sofa.  The above room was originally an entrance hall but he made it much more welcoming by adding the large round table, a sofa, and chairs.

The library floor is painted a lacquered green ( an idea borrowed from Monticello).  The baby blue fabric on the chairs and the red lamp shades makes for an interesting room.  The acid green walls in the next room  pack a happy summer punch.

Finally the shot of the acid green room (Benjamin Moore’s chic lime) in all of it’s splendor. The large sisal ( from Beauvais) dresses down the more formal valances and fun chinoiserie fabric.  Notice all the different shaped chairs ( most of which are slip covered). Red and white ticking stripe, wicker, soft blue, varying lamp heights, mirrored door surrounds ( a nod to Nancy Lancaster) , and texture make this room memorable.  The room is exciting yet comfortable mixing humble and high.
xo,
S

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

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

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

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

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 a shared passion for embroidery. The company produced exactly the type of bedding she desired, with an extraordinary diversity of