architect design™

An Artful Home

2012-01-31T06:30:00.000-05:00

One of my personal pet peeves is when people refer to a 'house' as a 'home' (are you listening to me, house-hunters?). There is a time and a place for both words but often, home is overused. The main difference is that 'home' is a feeling while house is a physical place or object. When talking about design, I always refer to a 'house'. That aside, one of the ways to turn a house into a home is through personalization; In this case, the use of a metal work artist to turn functional bars into pieces of art, giving the house an artful character. This isn't something you see everyday and the homeowner obviously put a lot of thought and expense into this detail. Located in the garden is this lovely old concrete bench covered in lichens -another artful addition. What have you done with your own house to make it your home?

Raji's 2 Tastemaker Tag Sales

2012-01-30T10:44:00.003-05:00

You probably have heard me speak of my friend Raji before, the talented DC based designer who did my favorite room at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse. Now we all have the opportunity to have a piece of her fabulous style through her 2 One King's Lane tag sales!

One of my favorite items up for grabs is this Grand Tour Style Candlestick -you'll have to beat me to it! Sales start January 31 at 9pm EST/6pm PST.

See the preview for furniture, lighting, textiles, and art HERE
See the preview for vintage accessories and tabletop HERE

Secret Garden

2012-01-28T11:01:00.002-05:00

I've always loved secret gardens. You know the type: surrounded by high walls allowing only glimpses of whats inside by a stray vine over the top, neatly clipped hedges peeping over or stately trees rising above.Even in winter they keep you guessing as to what's inside their private oasis. File this one under dream house features -those beautiful urns don't hurt this wall in Kalorama either.

Burke's Peerage

2012-01-25T10:10:00.003-05:00

I hope you're enjoying the second series of Downton Abbey! Click the image to enlarge. Hilarious! From the pages of GQ, Feb. 2012

How so, Diptyque?

2012-01-24T13:00:00.005-05:00

While in Paris I tracked down the Diptyque store with no problem as the address is located on each of their wonderful candles, 34 Boulevard St-Germain. While there, I suffered from more than a little sticker shock though. The candles, which we all know aren't inexpensive here in the United States, cost more Euro than US dollars such as at bluemercury where I normally purchase them, let alone the exchange rate. Anyone have any clue as to why? I left without a souvenir and spent my money stocking up at Mariage Freres instead, which is 1/2 the price in Paris when compared to the US retailers!

Where I've been

2012-01-19T09:13:00.003-05:00

Just taking a little blogging breather for the week, to those inquiring minds who wanted to know. Enjoying good books, working on projects and hibernating from the cold- it has been over 5 years of blogging afterall and we deserve a break once in awhile!

Heathcote

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Earlier last year I was reading online that Heathcote, the Edwin Lutyens designed country house, had come up for sale. Designed for businessman John Hemingway in 1906, the house was an unusual one for Lutyens, laying outside of the arts and crafts realm in which he practiced.The most surprising fact to me is that the house is not a large estate but rather a suburban villa - a precursor to the modern day mcmansion perhaps? (JUST KIDDING!) As you can see in the aerial view above and site plan below, the house has a substantial sized lot but is suburban in character. This is not a criticism from me in the least but an observation (I would never criticize a Lutyens project!). Normally with a house of this grand scale and design it has a working estate to go along.In his unusual design, Lutyens played with the notions of classical architecture and in particular the work of Palladio. The main facade faces the back garden, seen in the pictures above, but the street facing elevation is very similar.The 3 story house is symmetrical in plan and elevation and built of a local yellow rusticated stone with dressed grey stone quoining and Doric columns with a red clay tile roof.While the house is classical in design, Lutyens stuck to his arts & crafts routes by sourcing these local materials.Of the project Lutyens wrote "This house was for a very rich man who could not spend money: until he met me! in an ultra suburban locality"After visits to the Hemingways' former house, Lutyens was less than impressed with their sense of style and was therefore relieved when they asked him to help with the interiors of Heathcote and as you can see they turned out beautifully.The seller is actually a company who has had the house from the 1950s and has supposedly taken very good care of it but I haven't seen any contemporary interior photographs. What a spectacular house this would be to buy or work on!All historic photos from Country Life magazine via the book Edwin Lutyens Country Houses by Gavin Stamp. Drawings and aerial photograph from great Great Buildings.

Worn treads of Paris

2012-01-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Going through my photos from Paris, I came across this image I hadn't posted of the worn treads on the stairs to my Paris pied-à-terre. Don't you feel that in America this worn marble would have been replaced decades ago while the Parisians (indeed, most Europeans) let things lay for a charming affect. New isn't always better!

Doorways of Paris

2012-01-13T12:36:00.003-05:00

Or rather 2 doorways. Everyone has seen myriad photos of painted Parisian doorways but these 2 caught my eye. The relatively simple one above, squeezed behind the Opera comique, caught my eye. I love the older painted transom while the new door has been left natural; mostly though I was drawn to the oval window above the door.This is an arrangement to be seen all over the city, notice the beautiful storefront above showing a similar gently arched doorway with oval window above. Baroque architecture lives on even in small things.

Hôtel de Sens

2012-01-12T11:46:00.004-05:00

Across the river from my apartment on the Ile St Louis is the oldest area of Paris, the Marais. One of the oldest and most charming of the structures there is the Hôtel de Sens, a late medieval palace from 1475 which could easily fill in for Cinderella's castle.

The garden side faces a main street and even in the blustery winter weather was a place you want to spend an afternoon. The palace now houses the Forney arts library since 1961. This organization dates from the late 19th century and was created to promote artistic craftsmanship among the city's workers and is naturally open to the public.

Paris pied-à-terre

2012-01-09T12:34:00.009-05:00

As I mentioned, while in Paris I stayed in an apartment instead of a hotel. I can't recommend this move highly enough!

Located on the Ile St Louis in the center of the Seine, the apartment was located in an early 18th century building on the 3rd floor (or 2nd floor as it's known in Europe). The open shutters seen above were the windows in my living room.The courtyard had this great old hosebib for horses to drink from as the building was built after the island was known for its cows (I assume!).
The stairs were open and featured this great Victorian tiled floor on the ground level. While not climate controlled, you were shielded from the elements by great casement windows.The banister on the main level was ornate and featured beautiful marble floors. Notice how worn the stone treads are!The third floor was simpler as these were less grand apartments with terra cotta tile and a less ornate banister.Also, rather than marble treads, here they were wood.This was the doorway to my apartment. It may look normal, but was barely 6'-0" tall (a more typical door height would be 7'-0"). Thankfully I'm shorter than that and didn't have to worry about whacking my head!The apartment was recently renovated and featured some beautiful updated french furnishings in light grey tones with moss green accents which fit so well with the city.

Behind the sitting area was a small dining table where I would write my daily blog recaps!

The modern kitchen came from Ikea I believe and had everything I needed for small meals and snacks. This is where the ingenius trash can was housed which I canNOT find in the US for my own apartment! Does anyone have any ideas? Being the top floor, a skylight flooded the apartment with light even on the grayest of days.My bedroom was small and cozy but all that was needed for the stay. Sconces took up less room than table lamps on nightstands which were cantilevered from the wall.My bedroom faced the courtyard of one of the many hotel particuleurs for which the island is known and ring the island with river views.
The detail of the surrounding walls of the courtyard was really beautiful. On your visit to Paris, or any city for that matter, I would recommend an apartment rental from one of the many companies which offer them. You won't regret it, particularly in Paris!

Brian Goggin at SMF

2012-01-06T09:30:00.008-05:00

A friend traveling sent me some photos from the Sacramento airport of public art so whimsical it had to be shared.Brian Goggin created 2 sculptures entitled "Samson" that surround columns in the SMF baggage claim area. The 700 pieces of hard case luggage seem to balance precariously, 23 feet high, on luggage carts bearing the piece's name.And don't forget local building codes -the fire alarm is still intact......in the midst of the luggage!

Many thanks to Bob for the photos!

Small inventions

2012-01-05T09:50:00.002-05:00

Nothing pretty today, but I had to share with you the coolest feature of my apartment in Paris. The trash can was located under the sink on the back of the kitchen cabinet door, with a string connecting the lid to the side of the cabinet.

When the door was opened wide, the string would pull the lid open! I had never seen anything like this (do I live under a rock?). Simple but ingenius! Have you seen anything similar?

What would you call these?

2012-01-04T10:17:00.003-05:00

Following yesterday's topic, these eagle telamons (I hesitate to call them caryatids as they're so masculine looking) which grace the Italian embassy in Prague have my attention. Originally the Kolowrat-Thun Palace, the baroque palace was built in 1726 by G. A. Lurago and B. Scotti. Does anyone know if brackets like these have a specific name?

Telamons

2012-01-03T10:06:00.003-05:00

Lest you think I've foresaken my classical roots in favor of more modern fare, these Telamons (the male counterpart to the caryatid) in Paris stopped me dead in my tracks. Sculpted by (Sylvain?) Kinsburger in 1905 for this apartment building by the Parisian architect Auguste Joseph Garriguenc, they certainly make for a grand entrance!

Living Buildings

2011-12-31T06:00:00.001-05:00

Near the Pompidou Centre in Paris is another modern building. This one is a bit more natural than metal and plastic tubing though! The men's department of the local department store BHV is housed in a building with a living or green wall. As windows aren't always condusive to a shop, I think this is a brilliant way of covering a facade without leaving a blank slate.

Pompidou Centre

2011-12-30T12:45:00.003-05:00

I was prepared to hate the Pompidou Centre, I readily admit to that. However, coming across it while walking through the Marais, I was struck by the sense of scale created by the intricate pieces of its construction and thought "this really fits the neighborhood". Lets backtrack a bit. The Pompidou Centre (or Beaubourg as it is known) was opened in 1977, designed by famed Italian architect Renzo Piano along with Richard and Su Rogers and Gianfranco Franchini. The award winning building has been turning heads ever since.

Paris, that is central Paris, is not known for its modern architecture so the very existence of this building is surprising. The size is immense, however the scale is broken down into bits by the exposed structure and services which bring it down to a city and even human scale. Now that the colors have faded over the years (believe it or not) it blends a little easier into the charming French gray the city is known for.
Love it or hate it, the building is much beloved and locals crowd the adjacent square on weekends, many calling it "Paris's living room".

Architectural Watercolors at home

2011-12-28T00:17:00.007-05:00

As I wrote earlier in Paris: Day 5, I was able to meet up with architectural watercolor artists Andrew Zega and Bernd Dams in their stylish Paris apartment.

Long an admirer and collector of their work, I was looking forward to meeting them and could barely contain my excitement walking up the stairs of the 17th century building to their apartment.

The building has been skillfully restored, leaving the best of the original features while bringing it up to date.

The beautiful and large apartment is obviously the home of scholars as books are the focus as opposed to the art which I expected. Built in shelves cover many of the walls while still more books are piled on numerous other surfaces. I felt right at home as I can relate to this in my own apartment!Andrew and Bernd have done a lot of reconfiguration in the apartment during their years there, such as these columns topped with urns which seperate the living room from the entry.This final configuration wasn't exactly their original plan for the space, as evidenced by this watercolor. Originally they had planned on a more architectural solution but over time they abandoned it for a lighter touch which I think makes the space feel larger.Bookshelves continue in the alcove off the living room which contains their reading desk for the hours of research they put into their pieces.
A small den off the alcove contains the tv, computer desk and their collection of architectural etchings.

Be sure to check out their fascinating blog Noted which they update weekly. You'll always learn something new!

Christmas at Fezziwig's Warehouse

2011-12-24T18:00:00.009-05:00

I'Yo Ho! my boys," said Fezziwig. "No more work to-night! Christmas Eve, Dick! Christmas, Ebenezer! Let's have the shutters up!" cried old Fezziwig with a sharp clap of his hands, "before a man can say JackRobinson. . . ."

"Hilli-ho!" cried old Fezziwig, skipping down from the high desk with wonderful agility. "Clear away, my lads, and let's have lots of room here! Hilli-ho, Dick! Cheer-up, Ebenezer!"Clear away! There was nothing they wouldn't have cleared away, or couldn't have cleared away with old Fezziwig looking on. It was done in a minute. Every movable was packed off, as if it were dismissed from public life forevermore; the floor was swept and watered, the lamps were trimmed, fuel was heaped upon the fire; and the warehouse was as snug, and warm, and dry, and bright a ballroom as you would desire tosee on a winter's night.In came a fiddler with a music book, and went up to the lofty desk and made an orchestra of it and tuned like fifty stomach aches. In came Mrs. Fezziwig, one vast substantial smile. In came the three Misses Fezziwig, beaming and lovable. In came the six followers whose hearts they broke. In came all the young men and women employed in the business. In came the housemaid with her cousin the baker. In came the cook with her brother's particular friend the milkman. In came the boy from over the way, who was suspected of not having board enough from his master, trying to hide himself behind the girl from next door but one who was proved to have had her ears pulled by her mistress; in they all came, any-how and every-how. Away they all went, twenty couple at once; hands half round and back again the other way; down the middle and up again; round and round in various stages of affectionate grouping, old top couple always turning up in the wrong place; new top couple starting off again, as soon as they got there; all top couples at last, and not a bottom one to help them.When this result was brought about the fiddler struck up "Sir Roger de Coverley." Then old Fezziwig stood out to dance with Mrs. Fezziwig. Top couple, too, with a good stiff piece of work cut out for them; three or four and twenty pairs of partners; people who were not to be trifled with; people who would dance and had no notion of walking.But if they had been thrice as many, oh, four times as many, old Fezziwig would have been a match for them, and so would Mrs. Fezziwig. As to her, she was worthy to be his partner in every sense of the term. If that's not high praise, tell me higher and I'll use it. A positive light appeared to issue from Fezziwig's calves. They shone in every part of the dance like moons. You couldn't have predicted at any given time what would become of them next. And when old Fezziwig and Mrs. Fezziwig had gone all through the dance, advance and retire; both hands to your partner, bow and courtesy, corkscrew, thread the needle, and back again to your place; Fezziwig cut so deftly that he appeared to wink with his legs, and came upon his feet again with a stagger.When the clock struck eleven the domestic ball broke up. Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig took their stations, one on either side of the door, and shaking hands with every person individually, as he or she went out, wished him or her a Merry Christmas!

Christmas at Fezziwig's Warehouse by Charles Dickens

All Photos from 2010 Holiday House by myself

Paris: Day 7

2011-12-22T23:04:00.004-05:00

My last full day in Paris was spent seeing some new things which left me wondering why I waited so long to see them!The Musee d'Orsay was shockingly good: not just the art itself (which constituted my favorite periods) but the building, a converted train station, took my breath away.Designed for the Universal Exhibition in 1900 by the architect Victor Laloux, the train station laid vacant for decades until being converted into the art museum in 1986.A surprising added bonus to the museum are the views of the city from the 5th floor. Talk about Paris at your feet!On my way back to the apartment I dropped into the church across the street, St. Louis en I'Ile, for an impromptu organ recital (ok, practice time for the musician with me sneaking a listen!). The church which has a rather....shall we say rough exterior, has a magnificent baroque interior designed by royal architect Louis Le Vau designed in 1664. Walking out of the church, awed by the over powering music, the house across the street confronted me with my true feelings of the city and my trip: a heart shaped topiary.

Bûche de Noël

2011-12-21T14:57:00.005-05:00

A client recently presented me with a traditional Bûche de Noël, or Yule Log, for the holidays and it was so pretty (and delicious!) I had to share it with you all. The dessert is a traditional French pastry commonly shared around the holidays and decorated to look like a log ready for the fire (that is, if one decorated their logs with snow and meringue mushrooms).This dessert in particular came from the Praline bakery in Bethesda (a suburb of DC) which was founded by former pastry chefs from the White House kitchen. This version featured both chocolate and vanilla butter cream on a sort of chocolate brownie (is your mouth watering yet?). If you're in the DC area you may want to consider one of these as a hostess gift -you won't regret it!

Paris: Day 6

2011-12-19T21:17:00.005-05:00

Day 6 in Paris started with a walk through my favorite neighborhood in the city, St. Germain.No trip to St. Germain is complete without shopping. The neighborhood is full of the most unique and fascinating shops in Paris. The most famous of these is Deyrolle of course.The taxidermy shop takes merchandising to a higher level with their clever displays. I loved this tableau of animals eating a meal together at a table mad-hatter style.

As throughout the city, the buildings are gorgeous. As space is at a premium I noticed many double and triple dormers like the one here: no attic space goes to waste!

After a morning of shopping it was across the river, past the Tuileries to the very British and charming old world Hotel Regina to meet friends for drinks.Along the way, I passed these faux-bois doors painted by Jacques Garcia himself on an elegant apartment building facing the Louvre.

The evening ended fireside at the apartment of friends before dinner at a cafe in the Marais.What else could one ask from a day spent in Paris?

Paris: Day 5

2011-12-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

Day 5 of my Parisian adventure was again full of highlights, too many to mention really. The factor that helped day 5 stand out from the previous days (and trips) was finally relying on the Parisian metro. I was able to fit in twice the amount of site seeing and in much better spirits as I wasn't totally wet, exhausted and cold all day!I began the day by staying close to home, on the Ile St. Louis. The small island really is a self sufficient city within the larger whole and full of significant and historical hotel particuliers.Afterwards, I was able to finally visit one of these stunning mansions, the Jacquemart-Andre Museum in the 17th. I'm only slightly embaressed to admit that I've wanted to visit this stunning hotel particulier since watching the movie Gigi, where it stands in as the family home of Gaston.

The rest of the day was spent wandering through the city, stopping into numerous churches (hearing the monks sing at the St Gervais St Protais was awe-inspiring), shopping at such yummy spots as Fauchon and along the Rue St Honore.During the evening, I had the pleasure of meeting noted architectural watercolorists Andrew Zega and Bernd Dams at their stylish apartment for drinks. I was interested to learn their art really is a dual effort: Bernd (with his German precision) does the drafting while the watercolor is applied by Andrew. Of course the bulk of the effort, the research, is done jointly as evidenced partly by their enviable book collection, seen in part in the first image.If you haven't already, be sure to check out their blog NOTED, linked from my bloglist on the sidebar. Also their website, architecturalwatercolors.com, is regularly updated. Look forward to future posts on all of these items!

Paris: Day 4

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Day four started off frigidly but full of excitement: it was Versailles day! You may recall my visit nearly 2 years ago and my many many posts (and pictures!) of the chateau so I won't deluge you now but you can of course reference them through my blog search feature in the toolbar.Versailles, of course, does not change (at least not noticeably) but the seasons do. Tourist season is over and this visit was a weekday so the chateau was nearly empty - a very happy circumstance (other than the many closed areas -boo!). Another reason it was empty: the weather was positively frigid, painful to be outdoors. All the more reason to remain indoors and enjoy the beautiful views! A leisurely delicious lunch was spent at Angelina's in Versailles which included some of their famously decadent desserts. The hot chocolate IS as good as they claim and the Mont Blanc could feed a family of four for at least a week (if that family lived on sugar alone). Sinful; as was the fois gras which was probably the most delicious thing I've eaten in my entire life.Of course, no visit to Versailles is complete without a visit to the Petit Trianon, forever associated with Marie Antoinette whose bed at Versailles you see above.The Grand Trianon was also visited but it proved to be a disappointment; Not very well maintained and the interiors all date to the 19th century. However, it was interesting to see if for the history alone and great to check off my bucket list. I imagine that in more hospitable weather it is the most gorgeous garden in Versailles.On the way home, I stopped for a warming drink at L'hotel which I mentioned yesterday, the "Oscar Wilde" hotel, which was also blissfully nearly empty. Only a few colorful characters shared the lounge with me which proved for interesting people watching. I must say it is my favorite spot I have found in the city!

Paris: day 3

2011-12-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Day 3 was off to a late (and wet) start which prevented some of my original plans (a visit to the Musee Jacqumart-Andre which was rescheduled) but was still a glorious adventure.I spent much of the day with the talented photographer Cedric Benetti, whom you may know from his fantastic blog Paris 2E (see link in my blog list). Cedric has started giving guided tours of the city, mostly spots off the main tourist beat, and with his background in art and architectural history he makes the perfect erudite guide. See information on his many tours at http://palaisroyalgrooming.blogspot.com, I can't recommend him highly enough!Highlights included the Opera Comique,tea at Le Grande Hotel across from the Opera Garnier (the Inter-Continental), an insider tour of the Ecole des Beaux Arts (where the architectural profession was born, so dear to my heart), the Louvre (where Cedric studied) and finally a walk through St. Germain des Pres.One of my favorite spots we saw today was L'hotel, also known as the Oscar Wilde hotel. Impossibly charming, right in the heart of St Germain, the hotel's restaurant is one which I plan on visiting later this week and hope to stay during a future visit. Tomorrow, Versailles and I'm so excited to visit it again that I doubt I will be able to sleep!

Paris: Day 2

2011-12-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Day 2 in Paris was exhausting but fantastic: sunny and not too cold -who could ask for more in December. After a walk last night in the charming mist, I slept for about 12 hours.Seriously. As it's Monday, many places were closed and I spent the day visiting old haunts; the Rue St Honore and the Palais Royale on my way into the 17th for dinner at Le Relais de Venise. I highly recommend it for dinner but arrive early and be prepared to wait in line. They also have a restaurant in NYC at 590 Lexington Avenue.The 17th was filled with lovely apartments, an unusual one being the oddly angled building above; more surface area for french doors I suppose.Also along the way were such treats as the Arc de Triomphe

And lots of luxurious shopping. The windows of Christofle really took my breathe away - clouds holding their goods above the rooftops of Paris, so clever!The Egyptian styled monument outside of the Theatre du Chatelet was magnificent, but really, who doesn't love a sphinx or four!

First Day in Paris

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I arrived in Paris at the crack of dawn, literally, as the sun rose behind Notre Dame. Coming from the airport via the RER has the benefit of having your first view of Paris being this spectacular cathedral high above the Seine.I'm staying in an apartment behind Notre Dame on the Ile St. Louis, right in the heart of the city. After just one day I can thankfully say that apartment living is the right way to travel, I feel right at home.The apartment sits on the top floor of an old courtyard building: very La Boheme-esque complete with skylights and myriad stairs!

As you can see though, it's not a bad way to travel! I love the time worn marble treads and beautiful iron railing.The first day has been homey with naps, trips to the local wine and cheese shops, tea at Mariage Freres and flowers from the local florist, naturally! I'll be checking in with daily highlights so stay tuned!

Green Valley Christmas Wreath

2011-12-11T06:00:00.005-05:00

Green Valley Christmas Trees was kind enough to send me one of their fresh 22" Douglas fir Wreaths -such a beautiful scent from my mailbox!

I gave the wreath to my friend, interior designer Sally Steponkus, to work her magic. She used a a mini-wreath of silver jingle bells inside and fresh hypernicum berries. The ribbons are a rustic/glam combo, a look she loves ( and I do too! ). I hope this gives you inspiration for your own holiday decorations!

Bolection mantel

2011-12-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Located in the decorative arts collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is this mantel from a London townhouse. Bolection surround mantels like this are still common today; in fact one thinks of them as modern! However when paired with the fascinating wood swags and Ionic columns the entire character changes; this assemblage becomes a focal point rather than simply recedes. Yet another option in our Hearth and Home series.

The World of Department Stores

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Just in time for the holidays, Vendome Press released "the World of Department Stores" by Jan Whitaker for every die-hard shopper on your list!Not just pretty pictures (although it contains MANY of those), the book is a fascinating look at the rise of our consumer based society and our new house of worship, the Department Store.

The photos of the old department stores entralled me most, such as the reading room of the Bon Marche (2nd photo above) or an ad for the Palacio de Hierro in Mexico City: such glamour! The book covers the rise of the genre in the 19th century through the changes department stores have made into the 21st century to remain viable. Technology has always been a big part of the business (see the life-like models at Printemps in 1924 above) but on the other hand, nostalgia plays to many as well (see Harrod's food hall today below).

Geared towards the holiday season are the many window displays we all love. What child in us can't appreciate the Christmas windows of Lord & Taylor?

And who can forget Simon Doonan's windows for Barneys (my personal favorite!)

Be sure to add the World of Department Stores to your Christmas wishlist!

Ally Coulter for the Holiday House

2011-12-07T15:35:00.006-05:00

I wasn't able to attend this year's Holiday House in NYC (open until December 11!), but my friend Todd from Ralph Lauren Home sent me some great photos of the Living Room designed by Ally Coulter, which featured some of RL's furniture line.

Beautiful Ally is seen seated above in front of her room wearing a Ralph Lauren Collection dress, naturally. The Modern Penthouse Sectional is upholstered in a creamy taupe while the room shimmers in shades of white with a lot of glass for sparkle, like the Carlysle Cocktail table.

Ally used the RL Luxe Console as a bar set in the corner beneath the RL Conservatory Garden Wall Sconce. Isn't that Venetian mirror just so incredibly beautiful!

The RL "Runway Chandelier" fits right in with the architecture of the room; check out this gorgeous door surround with Corinthian columns and a broken pediment.

Not only does the furniture have prominence, the band you see playing is none other than Chris Gillespie from Bemelman’s Bar! It looks like I missed a fantastic party!

The wall paneling has beautiful lilac applique details, which is why Ally also refered to the room as the Mother's Day Room. Beautiful all year round!

Be sure to visit the Holiday House soon before it closes until next year!

Painted Mantel

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

For the next installment in the "Hearth and Home" holiday series, I bring you this pretty painted mantelpiece from the decorative arts collection at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The chimneypiece was painted by George Brookshaw (also known as G. Brown) in 1793 in the neo-classical style. Originally created for Piercefield House in Wales being remodeled at the time by Sir John Soane (of the eponymous museum), the mantel was later sold from the house when it was stripped and left to ruins in 1926. Wood plaster and painted copper panels; not all grand mantels need to be of stone!

Balsam Hill

2011-12-05T11:07:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I cohosted a Holiday Party and Balsam Hill was kind enough to supply me with 2 pre-lit topiaries.

The 2 artificial baby cypress trees came pre-lit and in fabulous classical urns. While I normally prefer real trees (naturally) these were great as they're low maintenance and great for temporary use like a party.They provided a welcome entrance to the party and literally marked the occasion! Thanks to Balsam Hill!

An ornate ceiling

2011-12-02T11:28:00.003-05:00

Located down the street from me in the old Riggs Bank building is one of my favorite casual restaurants, Gordon Biersch ( I love their garlic fries and burgers!). I love the repurposing of the old bank lobby into a restaurant (they kept all of the old features such as bank slip stands, etc) and the faux painted marble columns with corinthian capitals and beautifully coffered ceiling never cease to amaze me.Designed by Arthur Heaton and James Hill in 1891, the Richardsonian Romanesque styled building now houses a Courtyard Marriot and retains a lot of the beautiful old details. Do you have any cool old repurposed buildings like this in your neighborhood?

Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti

2011-12-01T08:46:00.010-05:00

Located along the Grand Canal in Venice is the Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti. Now housing the Venetian Institute of science, letters and arts, the palace started life in 1565 with many renovations since.

Like many of the palaces facing the Grand Canal, the main rooms are on the upper floors facing the canal providing beautiful views, seen in the room above. Notice the Venetian glass chandelier.

The palace is most known for is grand stairway built for Baron Franchetti in the 1880s by architect Camillo Boito. Boito was one of the preeminent architectural historians and restorationists of the day, chartering the modern historic restoration movement.While the Australian (who was kind enough to share these pictures) was in Venice, the Bienalli was taking place and the palace housed the glass exhibition, seen in part in the stairway above.

Designed in rich Venetian Gothic style, the house is characteristically rather over the top and ornamental: what we expect most in Venetian style.

As in all Venetian Palazzo's, the house fronts the canal with a courtyard or garden behind. I love this ornamental grille work.The palace has a rare side garden facing the canal which during the Bienalli housed a strange house called the Narrow House.Designed by Austrian artist Erwin Wurm as a reconstruction of his childhood house but squished to scale to only 1 meter wide to reflect the crowded conditions in Venice and the tricks our mind plays on our memory.

And I'm showing this because it's just amazing the detail that Wurm went to, but I promise you it's the only toilet you will ever see on ArchitectDesign!

Top photo of the Palazzo from Wikipedia, all others from the Australian.

Gilt andirons

2011-11-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

From the period rooms at the Met, these gilt andirons are the perfect addition to any holiday hearth!

You could always tell your kids that the stags are Santa's flying reindeer!

Ca' d'Oro

2011-11-28T06:30:00.001-05:00

The Palazzo Santa Sofia, commonly known as the Ca' d'Oro or golden house, is a 15th century palazzo along the Grand Canal in Venice. You probably recognize it from myriad postcards or the backdrop to movies, I know I do!The building is known as the golden house because its exterior used to be decorated with gilt and polychrome but now is natural stone; Old habits die hard I suppose! Built for the Contarini family by sculptor/ architect Giovanni Bon and his son, Bartolomeo Bon, in gothic style, it was a more decorative version of the style prefered by the Venetians which the Bon's made famous throughout Venice.

One arrives off the Grand Canal to the boat launch behind a screened loggia.Which gives entry to the courtyard.The loggias surrounding the courtyard have gorgeous inlaid marble floors and byzantine capitals topping the columns.How many different types of marble can you count here?The loggias upstairs off the main compartments offer breathtaking views of the Grand Canal.Since 1922 the house has been owned by the state and operates as a museum.In the collection is this bronze winged lion. The winged lion is representative of St. Mark the Evangelist who is the patron saint of the city and stands as the symbol of the city. Photos courtesy of the Australian.

Victorian Chimney

2011-11-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

Continuing my series on hearth and home, today I'm sharing a Victorian chimney from the National Building Museum here in DC. Arches, corbels and dentils, oh my! How much detail can one fit on one small chimney? It stands as a striking example of what can be done with masonry.

Baroque wood stove

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Located in the collection of the Met's period rooms is a fantastic white glazed and gilded baroque wood stove. While this may not be a traditional 'hearth and home' piece, these wood stoves were considered much safer than fireplaces and were widely used in northern Europe and most sat on stone hearths. I could see something like this used as contrast in a very modern loft or house- useful AND art!

Katrin Sigurdardottir at the Met

2011-11-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Exhibited last year at the Met were 2 extraordinary exhibits by the Icelander Katrin Sigurdardottir that I've meant to share for awhile now but was waiting for the perfect opportunity. Katrin created 2 white boiserie 'rooms' based on originals in the Met's period room collection, playing with scale and the absense of color to highlight the forms of 18th century France. The first was an architectural screen with 82 white painted boiserie panels that, in Alice in Wonderland style , quickly descended from full scale at 8' to a miniature 12".

The second was an enclosed room which could be peered into through 1 way mirrors, a replica of a salon at the Hotel de Crillon. The mirrored panels then cleverly and infinitely reflected the room as if one were inside.

The absense of pattern, gilt and texture create a whole new experience: would even Marie Antoinette even recognize such a room?

Read a thorough critique online at the New York Times for more information..

Chimneys

2011-11-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

The holiday season is upon us once again and nothing says home for the holidays quite like a chimney: hearth and home afterall, right? I'll be posting some of my favorite fireplaces and chimneys in the upcoming month and thought I'd start with this unusual double chimney here in the Kalorama neighborhood of DC. Notice the plaque as well as the different brick treatments: such great detail! I wonder if the right hand chimney is decorative or houses a mechanical flue of some kind as it doesn't have the same chimney cap as the left hand one? Also notice the unusual dormer tucked deep into the roofline.

The Heights: Anatomy of a skyscraper

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

I was asked to review a copy of The Heights, Anatomy of a Skyscraper by Kate Ascher by the Penguin Press as part of her online 'book tour' and am pleased to participate. While not involved with this area of design (high rise) as a residential architect, it has been a subject that has fascinated me since childhood.The book is jam-packed with a lot of basic information about skycrapers; technical, historical as well as how they impact the built environment and the future. While fears mount worldwide about how to efficiently house a growing population, sky-scrapers have become ever more desirable as a building type. One only has to note the growing number of them being built in developing countries across the globe to point out their importance let alone here at home in the United States (I live in a new high rise building myself).As I said, the book very thoroughly examines the skyscraper but in a way which is geared towards the novice and not a seasoned architect (or even a less seasoned one, such as myself!). I see this as an ideal gift for either a high school student interested in architecture or engineering school or even a present architectural student. The book is full of informative illustrations highlighting key points; lessons in and of themselves. I particularly enjoyed a timeline early in the book which puts scale drawings of well known skyscrapers, starting in 1875 with the New York Tribune Building at 250 feet and advancing towards 2010 with the Burj Khalifa in Dubai which soars over 2,600 feet.
All in all, the wonderfully smart graphics and precise information on skyscrapers, presented in an interesting and fun way, make this a perfect gift for anyone interested in the built environment. Skyscraper 101, an ever more important subject!

Dubrovnik

2011-11-21T12:58:00.002-05:00

Just some images today of the charming old city of Dubrovnik, Croatia from the Australian.

Could this city be any more picture perfect? Right out of a fairy tale.

I love seeing medieval cities still lived in and adapted to modern life, such as this street scene.

And who doesn't love a cloistered garden?

Bella Venezia (2)

2011-11-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Since last week's post on Venice proved so popular, I thought I would leave you with some more images from the Australian of that beautiful city this weekend.

Theodore Alexander miniatures

2011-11-18T07:29:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite companies to visit at Highpoint Market is Theodore Alexander. Their commitment to high quality wood furniture, both new and reproduction, is always astounding. While their reproductions are what the company is most well known for, such as Althorp, they also produce a line designed by the Keno Brothers, of Antiques Roadshow fame. The brothers' line is inspired by the lines of mid-century modern but incorporates the high quality wood detailing that the company is so well known for.
I think my favorite pieces of all though are these miniature chairs and reproductions which measure in at a mere 11" high. How great would these look lined up on a bookshelf? I suppose they bring out the child in us all!

Sheffield Park House

2011-11-17T10:48:00.003-05:00

Located in Sheffield Park, the grounds famously designed by Capability Brown in the 18th century, is an extraordinary gothic house simply named Sheffield Park House. Isn't this right out of a spooky 19th century novel? Fantastic! The house is privately owned but the gardens are open to the public - information HERE.

San Giorgio Maggiore

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I showed you Venice from the air via the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore. Today we'll explore the interior of the church.As I said yesterday, the building was designed by noted architect Andrea Palladio in 1565 after he had worked on the adjacent monastery for the Benedictine Monks who run the church.

The church was finished in 1610, 30 years after Palladio's death. The original bell tower from 1467 fell down in 1774 and was rebuilt 20 years later in Neoclassical style to better suit Palladio's efforts.At the crux of the center nave, where the tower is located, is a strange smoke machine installed for the Biennale.

Now that explains the strange piping we saw on the roof yesterday!

The interior is crisp, white and clean -the type of classicism I love best.

Located behind the apse alter screen, seen above, is a beautiful choir stall.Designed by Palladio, the stalls were built between 1580 and 1589.And I couldn't let you go without a close up of the gorgeous marble floors!

Venice from the air

2011-11-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

One sees many famous images of Venice but only the brave witness it from the air.

My Australian climbed to the top of San Giorgio to capture the city spread far below.

Having never been there, the thing that strikes me immediately is the immensity of the city! I always assumed it was small but here it is, a bustling seaport spread out through so much water. No wonder it is a popular cruise destination!

Below is the roof of San Giorgio. More on what that silver tube is in tomorrow's post!

Looking up, high into the bell tower.

And from the ground, here is the front facade of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore designed by my favorite architect, Andrea Palladio and built between 1566 and 1610. Awe-inspiringly stunning.

You recognize St. Mark's square above, across the water, with the familiar Doge's Palace.I had no idea the waterways were so large nor so busy!

Architectural Watercolor Christmas Cards

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Andrew Zega and Bernd Dams from Architectural Watercolors for being listed as one of Architectural Digest's discoveries! Andrew and Bernd have created a series of four holiday card sets which include Chinoiserie Pagodas, Garden Tents, Treillage Pavilions and Silver & Gold; read more on that at their blog NOTED.I ordered a number of their cards a few years ago and I can testify that they are of incredibly high quality. Whenever I give one with a gift to mark a special occasion I'm always told how beautiful the cards are. A lot of people actually have them framed!I first started following these talented guys a few years ago when they released one of their many books (on Versailles) and also bought a few of their paper folly lanterns (which they hope to put back into production again). I'm happy to say I plan on meeting up with Andrew and Bernd while in Paris next month and hope to bring you some tidbits from them upon my return!

Bella Venezia

2011-11-12T06:00:00.007-05:00

The Australian also visited Venice and I wanted to share with you some of his glorious photographs of the city.

I've never been to Venice but for a long time it has been #1 on my travel list. I'll be visiting Paris for a week in early December (more on that later) but even the beauty of Paris can't compare to Venice. Happy Weekend!

The Perfectly Imperfect Home

2011-11-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of meeting author Deborah Needleman at a book-signing party to celebrate her new book, The Perfectly Imperfect Home at the Room & Board showroom here in DC.

Best known as the founding editor of the much missed magazine Domino, Deborah has since made a name for herself at the Wall Street Journal (which I adore!). I received the book last week and I kept joking at the party that it had been to bed with me every night, I love it so! A great book of basic ways to make a house your home, it is charmingly illustrated with watercolor sketches by Virginia Johnson. As most of the images are well known to us savvy to design media, showcasing drawings rather than photographs really enlivens the book and gives it a great casual personality.Of course, I knew I was reading the right book when an illustration of Kate and Andy Spade's New York apartment graces the chapter called 'A Proper Welcome', probably my favorite apartment ever published (by World of Interiors Magazine).With chapters endearingly named and on numerous practical topics such as Places for Chatting, Cozifications, A Bit of Quirk and Delicious Scent, the book should be #1 on everyone's Christmas wish list. It's also a perfect house-warming present, especially at the low price!Other bloggers I read who have fallen in love with the book and wrote reviews are Style Court, A Bloomsbury Life and My White Shirt (who stood in the book signing line with me!)

All images scanned from the book by illustrator Virginia Johnson.

Highpoint: Hooker Furniture

2011-11-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

I was fortunate enough to be invited back to attend Fall market this year by the High Point Market Authority. As so many people who have gone in the past have been saying, Market is an amazing (but exhausting) opportunity to see what is new and hot in the design business.When back, the most common question everyone hears is "What was new this year at market?". Thats really a floating target but you do see similarities between a lot of the different furniture lines.

I'll use Hooker Furniture, my sponsor during my visit, to share with you some of the new fall 2011 trends.

Shape wise, the circle or oval shapes are HUGE. Circles everywhere!

Kim Shaver, the VP of marketing for Hooker furniture (follow the link for her interesting blog) thinks this is because in such uncertain times, the circle is soft and nurturing and symbolic of hearth and home.The circle was popping up all over like in the sides of this desk.

A new bed frame, the Marquette bed, also continues the round theme with an Art Nouveau inspired pattern.Following further trends towards tradition with a twist, Hooker released a new line called Primrose Hill, named after the famed neighborhood in London.The furniture in this line is inspired by 19th century European antiques but with an urban edge ( much like the neighborhood).I loved the Lattice Bed from the collection seen in the photos above.The woodwork details throughout the collection were really inspiring.Also new in the collection is the Braddington-Young (Hooker's leather division) tufted brown leather chair in a great small scale, perfect for apartments and smaller rooms (like my own apartment!).Not everything was traditional though; minimalism may be considered dead now in the design world but good modern design will always have a place in the field. Mixing upholstery in pieces was also popular such as in this chair with a plaid seat and leather surround.Loved this mid-century inspired chair from Hooker's Sam-Moore (the upholstery division).Another of the big trends was COLOR, particularly shades of red.In this economic climate where people are not investing as often in whole suites of rooms, accent pieces are more important than ever.RED is the perfect accent color as it's bold without being too crazy and goes with everything and any style.

Little colorful occasional tables are a great way to update your space without spending a lot of money.

These magenta leather wingchairs will certainly make a statement! Love the shape of the shelter back and those elegant little legs.This tufted leather corner chair looked straight out of a country manor house like Downton Abbey.The new Keltie chair comes in a variety of finishes and colors -again a great accent! Texture on furniture is something Hooker has always excelled at in my opinion. Maybe you remember my post on Hooker from last market HERE?The finish on this Curlacue chest from the Melange collection was stunning, like real linen!

While not strictly a texture, I think the Macintosh inspired Ludlow collection qualifies in the way the screens play with light and shadow like in this desk above; check out the shadow on the floor.

The Ludlow shelving unit with sliding screens above is really a fun piece.

Similarly, the Donovan bed from the lower-priced Envision collection contains beautiful woodwork with either a fabric or wood backing. A new piece which was taking Market by storm was the country-cute floral fabric accent chest which incorporated fabric panels into a worn wood painted finish.

Many thanks to Hooker Furniture for showing me around and helping me pinpoint the new trends at Market this season!

Hooker furniture is available from many retailers, find a list on their website HERE.

One of my sponsors here at ArchitectDesign is Carolina Rustica which is currently offering a sale on their Hooker furniture -be sure to visit their website!

The Red House

2011-11-08T10:11:00.006-05:00

My Australian 'penpal' has been traveling again and has sent me loads of photos from fascinating places around the world! I had to share 'Red House' with you, the home of Arts & Crafts artist William Morris.

The house was designed by his friend, architect Philip Webb in 1859. Morris wanted his home to be a "Palace of Art" and the Red House surely is. The gardens were designed to be a part of the house as a series of rooms: a very modern idea.While most known for its courtyard side (top 2 photos) the entry side is shown above; partly neo-gothic don't you think?

Sadly, Morris was forced to sell the house for financial reasons in 1865. The house remained in the same family for 150 years afterwards, a testament to its lovliness. It now is a part of the National Trust and is available for tours.

This 2nd story bay window has a really interesting stepped footing -almost like a chimney.

The little round windows on the courtyard side line a hallway, seen below.

The stained glass in the house was all done by Morris's friend, noted artist Edward Burne-Jones.The work that went into the house is really incredible. I love the woodwork in this sitting room below.

And no surface was forgotten; this tiled ceiling is amazing!
Update: Many thanks to my friend Richard for supplying me with a copy of the floor plans!

Katie Ridder Rooms

2011-11-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

Have you seen the new book, Katie Ridder Rooms? If not, I suggest you pick up a copy because it's one of the best design books out this season!

Katie knows color and texture. In my mind, these are things that make a house a home and the book is filled with luscious examples. I love the blue and red combination seen above.Probably the best part, for me as an architect, were the numerous examples of kitchens and baths. We're always looking for inspiration in these departments!Something as simple as a patterned backsplash in this vintage looking kitchen makes a world of difference.In this bath, a morrocan inspired tile is used to create a beautiful line at the top of the wainscot: so easy to replicate at home. Again we see a lot of blue which is surely Katie's favorite color (and mine as well!).What I love most about Katie's work is that it is unabashedly pretty and comfortable; nothing overly precious. They're simply delightful spaces which I'm sure thrill the occupants day in and day out. Isn't that what design should be all about?

Book written by Heather Smith MacIsaac with beautiful photography by Eric Piasecki.

Dupont Carillon

2011-11-02T06:00:00.002-04:00

Alfred Dupont loved his estate, Nemours, so much, that despite spending his last years in Florida chose to rest there eternally after his death in 1935.The 210 foot tall Carillon tower stands off the main mansion museum grounds (now) but within the original surrounding walls on the grounds of the adjacent children's hospital. Designed by his architect son through his firm Massena and du Pont, the carillon is still in working order and plays a number of songs daily, watched over by 4 stone eagles at the summit of the tower. Oddly enough, the mausoleum contains a 6 passenger elevator; can't seperate the industrialist from his gadgets even in death! Dupont's 3rd wife, Jessie and her brother, Edward Ball, are also interred at the Carillon.

Nemours Garage

2011-11-01T06:00:00.002-04:00

Of course, a showplace estate such as Nemours must have an outstanding garage. What self respecting industrialist wouldn't have the latest gadgets of the day? The garage matches the grandness of the house but with simpler materials; Stucco, painted wooden treillage and a clay tile roof hold delightful copper dormers.

The second floor held a large apartment and offices for the chauffeur and his family while the first floor contained the estate's collection of vehicles as well as repair and machine shops.Five car bays (plus entrance ends) now hold 5 automobiles, a pony carriage and motorboat once owned by Dupont and his wife.The interior is simple and of its' time: textured plaster walls, simple woodwork and tile floors.The entry hall holds the original telephoneAs well as the machine shop to which Alfred Dupont escaped to tinker.Dupont's taxidermy collection from his hunts once graced the main hall of the mansion, but Jessie Ball, upon moving in after their marriage had them moved out to the garage. An early 20th century example of the man cave?
The center doors have a graceful arch while the 4 flanking garage doors, while massive in size, are less monumental.

Admittedly I don't know much about cars but I certainly appreciate their style.Dupont would only buy American made cars and drove this Pontiac for many years until his death.At this time, Jessie went out and purchased a British made Rolls Royce (Silver Cloud no less!)All of the cars are in mint, working order and still are driven around the estate.Why don't more cars today have hood ornaments?Two of the cars were so beloved by the Duponts that they had their bodies transplanted onto new cadillac engine beds. I had never heard of that before!The sides of this green car had an interesting woven texture.The oldest car featured a true 'lantern' as headlight.And they're called 'trunks' for a reason!Also in the collection is a wooden motor launch which would ferry the Dupont's guests across the Little Choptank River to their nearby country estate. Now this is a collection I can appreciate!

Nemours water tower

2011-10-24T06:00:00.001-04:00

Nemours as an estate in a relatively undeveloped area had to be self-sufficient, like many country houses of the time (and today no doubt).

One enters the estate via a long drive with an allee of trees (seen at the top of the map below) before reaching the entry court, seen below with a #3 at the English gates.Unmarked on the map, directly behind the gates from the house is a beautiful marble fountain with a fairy-tale like tower in the background.

Was this some sort of folly for Dupont's grandchildren I wondered? I had visions of a playroom at the top of the tower with a Rapunzel theme. Bronze turtles feed the marble fountain.

It turns out to be much more utilitarian than all of that: the tower is filled with machinery and is the pump and water tower for the estate! A local stone base with tall stucco shaft, matching the house, is topped with an ornate wooden structure. Notice the clock and weather vane too!A very grand and picturesque necessity but maybe a tad disappointing for me; I still want Dupont's office at the top or at least the aforementioned playroom!.

Nemours

2011-10-22T09:43:00.014-04:00

As some of you guessed correctly, last weekend I visited the stately Nemours mansion outside of Wilmington, Delaware.Built by the industrialist, Alfred I. Dupont, in 1909, the mansion was designed by the prominent New York firm of Carrere and Hastings. The French Beaux Arts styled house was loosely based on the Petit Trianon. On the main facade you can find a stretched out and enlarged version of the western elevation of the villa with a roof plopped down on top and wings to either side.

Dupont had a local contractor build the estate, much to the chagrin of the architects but he was always concerned with using local labor and materials. Much of the stone used for construction came from the actual building site. Designed on a symmetrical axis, beautiful views exist from the main house down through the gardens (inspired by Versailles that I will post on next week) of the reflecting pools and colonnade.

While interior photography was not allowed, I am able to share with you what I noticed on the exterior of the house. Pairs of gracious Corinthian columns grace the front facade.The scale of the place is immense which thanks to a very balanced design isn't instantly recognized. Notice the size of the front porch columns next to the furniture!Doesn't your house have the building date inscribed?The front terrace contains only a fragment of the many urns found throughout the grounds, all filled with beautiful flowers.

The southern side of the house features some beautiful trellis work and green & white striped canvas awnings. Yes, that trellis is flat against the house with some great use of false perspective!

Also located on the south is a neoclassical limestone pavilion which houses the plant (and bird!) filled morning room; probably my favorite room in the house! It was also the favorite room of Jessie Ball Dupont (Alfred's 3rd wife) and where she spent most of her time. Jessie died in 1970 and the house was eventually converted to a museum.

The cornice on this house is great, I love the Greek key freize.The rear of the house is much simpler stucco with the continued cheerful canvas awnings.The backyard has, I fear, suffered from neglect as the front yard is the showpiece of the estate. We were the only people from the tour to venture back here!To the right of the main house is the massive servants wing, which easily is over 1/3 of the house. Like many industrialists of the time, Dupont was obsessed with the latest technology which fills much of the basement of the wing; ice making machines, ice cream making rooms, generators, a movie theater / bowling alley and his own water bottling plant still all exists. Servants rooms are on the second floor while the first level is full of a number of kitchens and pantries.The laundry, oddly enough, is located in this small house behind the servants wing.The house must have been very efficiently run as the kitchens feel almost commercial. The yard is a practical loading dock!Join me next week for a tour of the gardens, out-buildings and an additional house on the grounds which charmed the pants off me!

Teaser

2011-10-20T18:58:00.001-04:00

Thank you for the many kind emails inquiring into my where abouts! I'm currently suffering from technical difficulties but will be with you tomorrow, hopefully, with a tour of a fabulous mansion in Delaware. Can anyone guess what it is? Till then...

Rodin Museum

2011-10-12T06:00:00.002-04:00

I spent this past long holiday weekend in lovely Philadelphia and while there visited the Rodin Museum.Designed in 1929 by one of my favorite architects, Paul Cret (Here and Here), the museum and garden were built to house the largest collection of Rodin's work outside of Paris, collected by Jules Mastbaum.

Located right on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the heart of Philly's City Beautiful movement area, this beaux arts neo-classical styled building graces a lovely green plot and garners quite a lot of attention with Rodin's famous "The Thinker" standing guard!

A replica of the ruined facade of the old Chateau D'Issy graces the front of the garden, providing a gateway into the museum. Rodin had installed the chateau's facade in his own garden in Meudon, France.Inside the courtyard, gravel paving, fragrant lavendar and shade trees seperate you from the busy parkway outside. Shallow steps gracefully bring you up to the recessed entry through Doric columns.

While no longer the main entrance to the museum, Rodin's "Gates of Hell" -originally designed for the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris - still stand outside despite being his most important work of art. Rodin worked on this doorway, which incorporates more than 100 separate figures, from 1880 until his death in 1917.

The movement in this piece was really incredible and lifelike.

One of his most famous sculptures was actually a study for this gateway, The Thinker (1880-1882).

Cret included a number of his own sculpted designs such as these bronze lion heads on the entry doors flanking Rodin's gates.

This was a period in Cret's career where he was transitioning from the Neoclassical design favored by the Beaux Arts into a more streamlined, Art deco style seen in these light fixtures below.

No one did it like Cret in my opinion! Following a discussion with a friend, no great building has a forgotten 'back side'. For example, above is the 'back' of the Rodin museum; better than most front facades, wouldn't you say?The Rodin museum is currently at the end of an intensive restoration but will be open to the public in the spring of 2012. Until then, the gardens are still open for viewing.

Stone houses of Greenwich

2011-10-08T06:00:00.001-04:00

I spent a day in Greenwich, Connecticut a few weeks ago (more on that later) and I wanted to share with you some of the amazing houses that I saw driving around.

Many of the houses were built of stone and redolent of English country houses, a look I love, and is suited to the posh greenness of Greenwich.Even the walls surrounding many of the estates ( not mere houses, surely) are also built of stone, whether finished and dressed or rubble walls. Perhaps my favorite use though was on this Victorian house in the village with intermixed painted wood shingles and rubble stone.

Scalamandre

2011-10-06T23:36:00.014-04:00

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of touring the Scalamandre townhouse in New York with Steven Stolman, the new president of the company. Meg from Pigtown Design also recently visited the townhouse so I thought I would add my experience as well!As an architect, I was admittedly a bit out of my league with the technical discussions of the fabric they were showing, but I could of course appreciate their beauty and history. Scalamandre was kind enough to pull some items from their archives for me which appealed to my inner design history geek!One of my favorites was the Boris Kroll designed scheme for Scalamandre from 1973 for the Continental Airlines premier 747 jet service to Honolulu. Imagine flying in such a chic and brightly colored plane on your way to paradise! The colors, seen in the photograph above, ranged from hot pink in first class to serene blue in coach. The fabric samples are attached to a floorplan of the plane itself.With much of their work focusing on historical restoration and recreation, Scalamandre had worked on the Metropolitan opera house renovation and recreated the stage curtains which have this immense gold trim at the base and lush red velvet, seen in the archival box behind. The challenge here was to recreate the original curtain but to meet all of the required codes regarding fire safety. Steven mentioned the seats were all upholstered in costly mohair as wool is a fire retardant.
One of my favorite fabrics from the archives was this charming Auntie Mame'esque chinoiserie print designed by the founder's wife, Flora Scalamandre, in the 1950s - I hope they bring this back!While known primarily for their prints and traditional fabrics, such as this great one on a sofa in the DC showroom, Steven vows to bring the company into the 21st century while leaving their whole legacy intact. His dream is that nothing will be 'out of print' and you can order any of the great fabrics from the companies history.Recent advances in digital technology make this dream possible and the company has developed ways of using the technology that meet or surpass the techniques of the past.

So many new gorgeous prints!

I loved this fern print - very Martha Stewart, don't you think?

This cheerful preppy fabric is meant for outdoors but Steven said that a lot of designers have actually been using this inside. This new ikat pattern is actually complexly woven with a raised, textured design. Another fabric from their new line is "muse ornamentale" which is an updated look at a traditional design. It reminded me so much of the tropically inspired grand fabrics at Vizcaya, which had Scalamandre in on its' restoration!Of course, what would Scalamandre be without their animal prints (we all know their iconic zebra!)

In their new collection is a metallic giraffe print that is beautiful on both sides!

Their classic leopard silk velvet is still available (and is one of their most popular despite the high price tag!)

A new addition and sure to be equally as popular is a tiger printed velvet in either a mottled green or hot pink!

And of course, Scalamandre's iconic zebra print is available in many colorways and as fabric, wallpaper or even umbrellas! I hope you enjoyed the tour as much as I did! Many thanks to Scalamandre and new friend Steven Stolman (who is also a CMU alum I found out!).

Entrancing mushrooms

2011-09-30T13:27:00.003-04:00

I spent the day in Easton, Maryland yesterday on the Chesapeake Bay for a new project and while walking around outside, was astonished by the number of unusual mushrooms I saw growing everywhere.

The structure of these little plants always intrique me; the ribbing, the spots and the cupping -they're so amazing and rather architectural, don't you think?

I know nothing about mushrooms so would never even think of trying to taste or touch any of them for fear of poisoning, but always appreciate them. I had never seen any this yellow green color before.

This monster mushroom had numerous heads and was probably 12" in diameter! I suppose there was one good thing to come from this wet, humid weather we've been having: mushrooms!

McGorlick Park

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

While in Brooklyn a few weeks ago, I came across a small city park that I had never heard of in Greenpoint, which was surprising considering its' loveliness, Monsignor McGorlick Park.Opened in 1891, the park gained beautiful structures and monuments throughout its' history which attracted my eye. Designed in 1910 by the architectural firm Helmle, Huberty and Hudswell who built many impressive structures in Brooklyn, the main building housed M and W bathrooms seperated by a covered curved colonnade.The beautiful neo-classical detailing of the structure isn't surprising as Helmle received his training at the well known architectural firm of McKim, Mead & White. The yellow brick and limestone facade also features a beautiful segmented beadboard ceiling with trimwork picked out with yellow paint.I just think this is such a lovely building, don't you? I wonder what the original light fixtures were (the junction boxes are still in the ceiling)Located inside the crescent shaped building is a WWI memorial created by noted sculptor Carl Augustus Herber in 1923.In her left hand Winged Victory holds a laurel for victory and a palm frond for peace in the other.While I was drawn in by the architecture, I believe the locals simply appreciate the open space and lush green!

McGorlick Park is located between Driggs and Nassau Avenues & Russell and Monitor streets in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

NY in miniature

2011-09-27T09:01:00.005-04:00

While in NY this past weekend, I had to run an errand with friends at a Toys R Us and had a pleasant surprise; famous NY buildings in minature built of my favorite childhood toy, legos! The scale of the buildings was dead on and it was amazing how no detail was overlooked with the little bricks.

I loved the context of the buildings next to one another, the Statue of Liberty next to the Empire State Building.

The beloved Chrysler Building was also included.Even King Kong wasn't forgotten on the top of the Empire State Building!It was interesting to see Phillip Johnson's Lipstick Building at such a small scale but maybe a smooth curved building facade isn't the best out of clunky legos?

If you're in NY and find yourself near Times Square (AKA tourist h*ll), stop in Toys R Us at 1514 Broadway to see the sites (or at least stop by candyland for some treats!)

Goodbye to summer, hello fall

2011-09-23T13:12:00.002-04:00

Sunset over the Potomac river from Georgetown.

Exotic Taste: Orientalist Interiors

2011-09-20T08:56:00.007-04:00

Debuting this fall, along with a score of other delightful books, is "Exotic Taste: Orientalist Interiors" by Emmanuelle Gaillard from The Vendome Press.

Filled with incredible photography primarily by Marc Walters, the book showcases the love of exotic Eastern influences which began to inspire the Western world nearly 400 years ago.Orientalism came into fashion primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries when Western architects tired of the dominance of classicism and people longed for an escape from the everyday. Often times only a room was decorated in an exotic style to showcase a collection of porcelains or lacquerware, but occasionally you would see the emergence of a complete project, such as the Prince Regent's Chinese Inspired Royal Pavilion, seen below.

The book covers these and more, including art, fashion and the people it mesmerized such as Mark Twain, Russian Empress Catherine and Marie Antoinette's mother, Empress Maria Theresa (her own study seen in the top image).

Be sure to add this book to your Christmas wish list!

West Village shopping

2011-09-19T11:14:00.003-04:00

While in New York the other week in the West Village I came across two stores which were just great experiences and so quintessential 'New York'.

First was 'The Meadow' which was a fascinating shop filled with an enormous collection of different salts in a rainbow of colors as well as chocolates, flowers and drink mixes: Delightful!

I bought an after dinner mint drink in a great vintage looking vial meant to aid digestion (but I really bought it for the cute bottle!). I was sorely tempted by the gorgeous flowers and all of the salts though! Did you have any idea so many types of salt existed?

Directly next door is a great little shop full of great gift ideas : Leo Design. How often do you find a vintage store with a decidely masculine aire rather than feminine? Every single item in this store I wanted to take home with me but thankfully (for my wallet) I came out empty handed. Be sure to stop by these 2 great shops next time you are in the village!

Leo Design is located at 543 Hudson Street

The Meadow is at 523 Hudson Street in NYC

and

3731 N. Mississippi Avenue in Portland, OR.

Ralph's flowers

2011-09-17T06:00:00.002-04:00

As many of you know, last week was fashion week in NY. A good friend of mine sent me a few gorgeous photos from the fashion show and I thought I would share them with you. The flowers in the entry were just spectacular.

Here is the Lauren family taking in the show front and center. Can't you feel the glamour? See more coverage of the Ralph Lauren fashion show HERE at Habitually Chic. Enjoy your weekend!

Townsend Mansion

2011-09-16T10:51:00.029-04:00

Recently I attended an alumni event at the Cosmos Club which is housed in the old Townsend Mansion.This mansion along embassy row has long been one of my favorite stately Beaux Arts houses of DC, designed by renowned architects Carrere and Hastings and finished in 1901. Fittingly enough, John M. Carrere had been a member of the Cosmos Club from 1905 until his death in 1911.A true townhouse, the design is a piano nobile, with the primary rooms on the second floor, further away from street noise and dust. After entering the grand foyer seen above, you ascend into a grand hall, reminiscent of the great halls of stately country manors, large enough to double as an entertaining space.This is the staircase today on the 2nd floor. The configuration has changed a bit from the original with the parlor now serving as entry hall and the doorways into the hall and small parlor being closed.The parlor has not changed much and is the most beautiful room in the house.Rather than art hung on the walls (with the exception of the portrait above the mantel), they are painted with beautiful murals with the delicate plasterwork painted white.You can see how impressive this room is, but not over scaled for the size of the house.Fascinating to see the workings of a private club with piles of daily newspapers on this table.This doorway leads you to the main hall.Loved this bust of Benjamin Franklin and you can see a bit of detailing in the murals.Adjacent to the parlor is the 'small parlor' decorated in more of an Empire style.As you can see, this room hasn't changed much either. The damask wall hangings have been replaced with plain painted plaster.Based on the photographs, a lot of the furnishings are from the original owner, Mary Scott Townsend, although used in different areas of the house.This table was originally in the library, next door.Mrs. Townsend lived in the mansion until her death in 1931 when her daughter and husband moved in, Mathilde & B. Sumner Welles. During WWII, the house was leased to the Canadian Women's army corps and was later sold to the Cosmos Club in 1950 for only $364,635 (after they had been paid $1,000,000 for their previous space - smart financial move). The club has taken immaculate care of the house and continues to do so. In 1973 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.Here you see the library in Mrs. Townsend's time. It has had some changes, many years ago to my eye as they feel residential, probably under the care of her daughter Mrs. Welles.
Here you see the table which now is in the small parlor.This original fireplace above has been replace with a much older renaissance styled chimneypiece.The intricate plaster and wood beamed ceilings are original although now painted white.Even the hall has a fireplace. The mantels found throughout the house were much deeper than any I had seen before, well over 24".Across the hall from the library is the dining room with breakfast room alcove.The room is richly paneled with a painted ceiling.

Here too the fireplace mantels have been traded out for much simpler ones which are still appropriate to the space.

On the opposite side of the room from the fireplace is a built-in marble server, matching the mantel.Here you begin to see the ornate ceiling decoration. The recessed lights are obviously not original and clearly unfortunate. A detail of the beautiful paneling.The Cosmos Club has expanded far beyond the original building through numerous additions and also acquiring adjacent properties. The dining room has become an internal room now and this walkway goes past the breakfast room bay.The hall is artfully treated as a conservatory which I feel respects the original house.The ballroom on the plan above is currently being renovated so I was unable to get a picture, but here is one from Mrs. Townsend's time.The bedrooms upstairs were no less grand or less sumptuously detailed than the main rooms below.At the end of the hall is entry to the garden which is still a beautiful place; the sound of trickling water from the fountain drowns out noise from passing traffic. Originally designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr, the gardens have been substantially altered.

All historic photos from the Library of Congress: color photos are from my cellphone camera.

Artisan Lamp Co.

2011-09-15T16:01:00.008-04:00

The best lighting store by far in the DC area is Artisan Lamp Co. I stopped in there with a client the other day and I wanted to share some of my favorites with you!

Located in Cleveland Park, they specialize in restored antique and vintage light fixtures. I loved this architectural marble lamp. Many of these fixtures are less expensive than new lighting but they have incredible quality and patina that is hard to reproduce - so important for a remodel or update to an older house.

My favorite is this charming little cottage lamp ceiling fixture. It's been in the window for weeks and was what drew me into the store originally - see that price, only $95! I only wish I had a place for it.

There is something for everyone in a multitude of styles, whether it be french lantern, empire chandelier or Baccarat crystal (all in this photo).

I can see this chandelier in a grand dining room and check out the gilded bronze sconce below!This little empire brass sconce was of incredible quality and we picked it up for a master bedroom vestibule.Finding sets of anything antique is generally a challenge, so it was a thrill to find a set of 3 empire torch sconces! We picked these up for a new masculine master bathroom remodel.

I always have my trusty tape measure with me -my key fob! You never know when you'll need one.

While in Cleveland Park, I came across an odd sight on a dry day: water gushing OUT OF THE STREET and into the adjacent drain. I suppose it's simply a broken water pipe but it was a bit odd none the less!

You can visit the Artisan Lamp Company at 3331 Connecticut Avenue, 1 block from the Cleveland Park metro stop.

All pictures via my droid camera phone - I was not approached by the company or compensated in any way for this post. I hope you enjoyed the tour!

Jack Spade opens in Georgetown

2011-09-14T14:05:00.012-04:00

I was excited to find out that Jack Spade quietly opened up here in Georgetown last week. I had been intrigued by rumors they would be coming to DC for a year now and was caught off guard to find them just up the street! I've been going to the original store in Soho for years now every time I visit New York.They do the best job merhandising of any store I know so I wanted to share some of the interiors with you. You know it's not a 'normal' store right upon entering when you are greeted with a bright orange checkout counter. The displays are so well done you don't want to mess them up. I love that they mix in their famous bags with their line of clothing and even other fun items and books.

It all looks like a stylish gentleman's closet (or my dream closet!).The store is 2 floors with the second story being cavernous in size.I loved this little vignette of the beautiful rug and round table. I was glad to hear they used one of my favorite local vintage stores, Good Wood, for a lot of their furnishings.I could see myself carrying this pinstripe bag to work!Along the staircase are cubbies with a fascinating display of objects and books. I could spend all day here checking it out.But what is that light fixture in the foreground? I think it wins the award for cutest light ever: A miner on a rope carrying a lantern!A close up of the stair cubbies.Spread throughout the store are fun little displays - I wasn't sure if they were for sale but if so, I don't think they'll last long. I loved these offbeat toby jugs.And these vintage nutcrackers -I wanted to take the cute one on the right home with me!No detail was overlooked, not even the dressing rooms. I loved the color palette as well as the retro boy's wallpaper.

And what do you get for the guy in your life who has everthing? How about a ping pong paddle case!

In other Georgetown news, the park along the riverfront finally opened (across the street from the movie theater) and I'm loving this fountain!

You can visit the Jack Spade store at 1250 Wisconsin Avenue -just 2 blocks north of M street.

Portraits

2011-09-08T06:00:00.001-04:00

Why not record your house for posterity in a memorable way like Baron Kuner did in 1760 of Memmingen, his country estate in Kunersberg -paint it on a platter. Of course, he owned his own faience pottery factory which helped! Have you done anything to record your estate?
Plateau now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Spanish Steps

2011-09-07T06:00:00.002-04:00

No, not THOSE Spanish Steps, but rather the so named 'Spanish Steps' in the Sheridan-Kalorama neighborhood of Washington, DC (connecting 22nd and S streets NW). Originally, steps in this location led to a grand 18th century estate named Belair which was later changed to Kalorama, Greek for 'fine view', in 1807 by then owner and poet Joel Barlow. These steps were built in 1911 when the neighborhood was being developed at the height of the city beautiful movement and later were rebuilt (following decades of neglect) in 1999 by a group of neighbors. They now hold a rather romantic character and many a DC girl has been proposed sitting here in summer. Now who needs to go all the way to Rome when we have our own Spanish Steps in our backyard!

Recent Acquisition

2011-09-06T09:07:00.006-04:00

This past weekend, I bought a cabinet on craigslist to replace a console table I had in my entry hall (slash dressing room), seen above. While the old console table was very pretty, it lacked essential storage. While advertised as antique, it's actually a newer piece which was a disappointment (especially as I had driven out to Ashburn!) but the quality is outstanding. It is unmarked though so I can't figure out the maker.Here is my old console table. I kept the mirror which oddly enough, is a near perfect match for the cabinet, which even odder still, is nearly the same exact size as the table! I can't make up my mind whether to use my old wedgwood lamp, which was my grandparents (the beige and brown urn) or to use a simpler white wedgwood lamp which needs a little work (the lamp shade extension needs to be removed as it is out of scale). Which do you prefer? I realize my Napolean bust from restoration hardware is also a bit big, but I like him and don't know where else he could go in my tiny apartment.
I lined the top 2 drawers with a beautiful marbelized paper which I think goes nicely with the marble top as well as 2 plates from my John Derian collection. How was your weekend?

Bitte Geh Nicht Fort

2011-09-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

Something a bit different -the glamorously talented Marlene Dietrich singing a heartfelt German version of Ne Me Quitte Pas

Ne Me Quitte Pas (2)

2011-09-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

A shockingly beautiful interpretation by Sting.

Ne Me Quitte Pas

2011-09-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

A favorite singer and a favorite song. Happy long weekend!

Artful fencing

2011-09-02T14:42:00.004-04:00

Not the sport but rather this amazing ironwork fence I came across the other day in Georgetown. Who says artistry such as this is dead, the leaves look practically real!
Click the photo to enlarge and get a closer look.

Improvisation

2011-09-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

The artist Childe Hassam, the American impressionist, painted this piece in 1899, just as his career was blossoming. Now owned by the Smithsonian American Museum of Art, the painting is one of my favorites in the collection.

Even the frame is masterful and adds to the overall beauty of the painting. Speaking of improvisations, I came across this talented pianist on youtube who has a series of these hilarious improvs he did while on chat roulette. I highly recommend watching the clip both for his skills and for a laugh! Enjoy!

Casa Hurtado by Busquet

2011-08-30T23:10:00.006-04:00

Along with the well known Gaudi, there were many other modernista architects working during the same time period, including Guillem Busquet. The Spanish architects working in the same vein as the more widely known Gaudi created houses in the city proper of Barcelona such as the Casa Battlo, the Casa Mila, the Palau Guell or the Casa Lleo Morera; but also a number of smaller residences around the city, such as this one I came across one day outside of Barcelona last year. You see so much of the modernista distinctive style here: the curved and unusually shaped facade, the inventive terra cotta work and his use of color through tile. So while traveling, I think this is a reminder(to me!) to always keep your eyes open because you never know what gem you might find even in a quiet suburb!

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Details

2011-08-26T17:13:00.008-04:00

To wrap up my coverage of the Hamptons Designer Showhouse, I thought I would share some of my favorite details found throughout the house which I hadn't shown.

The lower landing, which stopped most viewer's right in their tracks was completed by Welhil Interiors. They filled the space with a beautiful bar, a la 1950s and used this beautiful lucite chair at the base of the stair. The end wall was papered with an enormous blow up of a Long Island Map, charming!

The dining room off of the foyer was decorated by Robert Stilin. Robert created a contemporary space anchored by a great chandelier that I wanted to take home with me! Robert has been a fixture in showhouses for quite awhile; past Hamptons designer showhouses as well as Kips Bay (see coverage of his 2011 Kips Bay room on Habitually Chic).

The Mendelson Group created a modern stair landing (including this incredible lamp) on the 2nd floor. Notice the wallpaper with the great subtle details.Patricia Fisher designed a beautiful and feminine guest room which was a sea of blues. I loved this console table (notice the Hickory Chair stools which were found throughout the house used by a few designers.

Haus Interiors decorated the foyer and it was definitely an eye catching space. This console table and stools reminded me a lot of a Missoni print.Lillian August decorated the living room in a charming vintagey beach style. I loved the large scale landscape drawing on the wall.Meg Braff, never one to disappoint, turned a pokey butler's pantry and powder room into beautiful spaces through texture and color. This powder room is perfect for a beach house.

Eddie Lee turned the guest sitting room overlooking the pool into a sophisticated retreat. The colors of celedon green and beautiful blue seemed fresh and crisp. I loved the tufted sofa.

This seating area looked like a great place to sit down with a good book (and martini!)

Keith Baltimore decorated one of the bedrooms in a vintage style which was so fun: I loved the house of the Hickory Chair column in the corner.

The beautiful kitchen was completed by Bakes and Company. The carrara tile backsplash is what I would put into my own kitchen and I loved these old storage jars.Behind the house lies a beautiful pool and enormous poolhouse (the size of most houses which I preferred to the main house!)The main sitting room of the poolhouse was decorated by Eileen Kathryn Boyd. The windows facing the neighbor's yard are covered in gorgeous yellow curtains and enhanced by urn topped columns.

Even the changing area, also decorated by Eileen, left no detail untouched. I see a lot of cute pillows and totebags I'd want to take with me to the beach!

I hope you enjoyed my coverage of the Design Showhouse. You still have time to visit the house and see it for yourself for another week -it closes on September 4th.

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Ron Foire for Hickory Chair

2011-08-24T18:52:00.008-04:00

The enormous master suite at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse was designed by Ron Fiore for Hickory Chair. Using many of Hickory Chair's classic pieces, Ron wove together an elegant and airy bedroom with different zones for a hideaway within the house.

I loved the desk beneath a window facing the pool beside the fireplace; those large work areas are so useful for spreading out!

The tablescapes around the room were stunning, whats not to like with this collection of vases?Although a bit washed out in my photograph, the sitting area looked like the perfect little corner to cozy up into. I love having those 2 lamps side by side in the shelf for reading lights.

A virtual footboard for the bed was created with the backs of these timeless chairs (even Christian Dior would approve!).

If I had to find one fault with the room, and this is personal, I hate the trend to cover books with paper. While I agree it makes the room more serene perhaps, I just love books and hate to see them covered. A bookshelf is so much more interesting when there are titles to survey.The master bath was completed by Carole Reed Design and I loved the layered window treatments. Even I, a sworn shower taker, might be tempted by this tub (and my monogram is even included on that towel!).

John Russell Pope: Temple of the Scottish Rite

2011-08-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I posted an image of a beautiful light fixture and it raised some interest in the building it came from: the Temple of the Scottish Rite.

I've been fascinated with this building since moving to DC, sitting so stately on 16th street. It is open for tours but I've never managed to make it on time during their limited hours.John Russell Pope, so often associated with the grandest monuments and houses in DC, actually got his start in the city on this Greek inspired building when he was selected in 1910 for its design. Five years later it was finished and became the headquarters for the Grand Council of the Masons.

Since opening, the building has always garnered attention; winning many architectural awards and being listed in 'top buildings' lists for close to a century now. This is not surprising given its' historic precedent, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, the tomb of Mausolus at the Greek city of Halicarnassus. Yes you read that correctly, this tomb was so well respected that it soon became the word used for all great burial chambers: mausoleum.While choosing a tomb as the basis for the design of a great civic building may seem strange (the temple housed the first public library started in 1917 for the city, thus making it civic), one cannot deny the sheer elegance and respect that it commands on so important a street.

Many of the details of this grand building bring the awesome scale down to be appreciated at human scale, such as the light fixtures I showed yesterday and these amazing door knockers on the tall bronze entry doors. Hopefully I'll be able to tour the interiors shortly and try to share them with you all.

Pope's lanterns

2011-08-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Nothing much, just an exquisite bronze light fixture outside of John Russell Pope's Temple of the Scottish Rite here on 16th street in Washington, DC. A patina'd fixture, proving that quality lasts the test of time.

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Donald Schermerhorn

2011-08-19T14:58:00.006-04:00

The best laid out room at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse was the family room by New York designer Donald Schermerhorn. Bucking convention, Donald laid out the furniture diagonally in the room which not only was interesting but aided traffic flow. Similarly, his room at the Kips Bay showhouse in 2009 also had an interesting furniture arrangement and garnered a lot of attention. See that room HERE on Habitually Chic. I love examples of thinking outside of the box like this!

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Keith Carroll

2011-08-18T16:34:00.006-04:00

My favorite bedroom at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse was a 1st floor guest room that was just so charming I could have moved right in.Decorated by Keith Carroll, the room highlighted Scalamandre wallpaper with dogs in a yellow and gray colorway, which was then repeated through the colors found throughout the room. It certainly didn't hurt that the room was styled as if someone was living there, down to the NYtimes and oreos on the breakfast tray!

While small, the room still had space for a small seating area; always good for a guest so they can have somewhere to lounge privately other than in bed. The en-suite bathroom continued the yellow and gray theme but in a different wallpaper. Classic white bath fixtures finished off the space in a timeless manner.

As I said, the room was styled so well, down to the products; always my favorite part of any show house!

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Raji RM & Associates

2011-08-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Another of my favorite rooms at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse, I'm proud to say, was done by a good friend of mine here in DC, Raji Radhakrishnan.

Raji, smiling here as always, composed a room very much in line with her work; Eclectic but edited, a fascinating collection of the most beautiful and interesting pieces which make the room feel to me as if an interesting person lived there rather than being 'decorated'. To my mind, isn't this the goal of high-style interior design?

Raji explained that the room she started with was basically bare bones, a staff bedroom on the lower level. The first task she assigned herself was to bring some architecture into the space through a painted wood chair rail and moldings. They MAKE the room. Raji interpreted the space as a ladies lounge for the mistress of the house. She wanted the room to tell the story of an accomplished woman who needed a stylish office to conduct her own business away from the family. Imaginary client: Hillary Clinton. The pieces throughout the space are all amazing -you could spend all day here just admiring each one. I loved these vintage pottery jugs.No inch of the room was forgotten with beautiful details throughout.Even the light fixture was incredible!I think we can all agree this is a room we would want to spend time in; especially this tufted leather chair!The most show-stopping item in the room is the glass rod encased cabinet in the corner. Created by a French artist that Raji and her husband discovered wandering around Paris, the borrowed piece has an asking price of over 50k! Look but don't touch!One of the most personal and asked-about spaces in the space, believe it or not, was the bathroom. Raji's talented daughter, Shruti Narasimhan spent countless hours painting a beautiful coral decoration on the walls with coordinating shower curtain. It's no surprise however that the apple didn't fall far from the tree; Shruti currently is studying interior design in NYC.For better pictures of the space than my own, go to My Notting Hill to see professional photographs.

Carpenter's Gothic

2011-08-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back from a week in Provincetown, Mass. and while there on one of my many bike rides I came across a charming house. Designed in the vernacular "Carpenter's Gothic", part of the Gothic Revival Movement of the 19th century, the house and 2 side cottages have been little changed over the past century.

The influence is subtle but guides every footstep of this charming cottage perched on a hill overlooking the harbor. The steep gables, intricate woodwork mass-produced details and the arched windows on the side cottage all speak of the genre.

You can nearly see the couple from Grant Wood's American Gothic standing in front!

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Tilton Fenwick

2011-08-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned last week, my favorite rooms at the Hamptons Designer Showhouse were in the most unexpected places. One of these was the basement family room done by the noted interior decorators at Tilton Fenwick that have been in the press so much since opening shop in 2010.

While the layout of the room was a bit strange, set up for cocktail parties I presume, every object in it was so exquisite -something I would want for my own house.

The room lies at the rear of the house with the pool terrace above and unfortunately faces a gravel courtyard and tall stone wall. With a layered room this beautiful though, who needs to look out?

The first thing that struck my eye were these green velvet armless sofas -the most delectable pieces of furniture! I really wanted to sprawl out on one but it just didn't seem polite!

The turquoise opaline lamp in the corner livened up what would have otherwise been an awkward little alcove.

This horn covered chair was really striking, and the upholstery was really interesting - I think it might have been an outdoor fabric? It looks like mohair until you touched it. I loved the colorful collection of national geographics below the console.

This pretty corner bookcase brought a touch of whimsy to the space and I felt, connected it to the pool outside with the canopied top.

In the corner of the room was a simple bookcase piled high with drinks and snacks -perfect for a party, especially those salty pretzels!

The other side of the room had a lovely cabinet in the most beautiful wood tones.

They not only took on the family room, but also the adjacent powder room. What could have easily become a throw away space (in terms of design) took center stage with a beautiful patterned wallpaper with contrasting red mirror. Hopefully we'll be seeing a lot more from this talented duo!

Hamptons Designer Showhouse: Rosemarie Petruzzellis

2011-08-05T10:44:00.005-04:00

Two weekends ago I had the pleasure of being invited to attend the grand opening party of the Hamptons Designer showhouse. I jumped at the chance to see the house but also to tour that area of Long Island as I hadn't visited before.

Some amazing decorators were invited to work on the project, as we have all seen many places online, but I thought in the next few posts I'd show some of my favorite areas and details that I happened to notice while there.

Strangely enough, but as is often the case, my favorite rooms weren't the grand spaces on the main ground floor done by the big names, but rather the smaller rooms located on the 2nd floor and the lower level (where the best of the best work had been done in my opinion).

Two of the first smaller rooms which blew me away were the 'his' and 'hers' dressing rooms (closets really) which had been taken on by the decorative artist Rosemarie Petruzzellis of The Paint Palette.

I believe I may have actually seen Rosemarie at the opening party over drinks on the pool deck as I saw someone in eye-catching pants painted EXACTLY like the bright green Lady's dressing room, but I was distracted by seeing my friend Emily Eerdmans whom I spent the majority of the evening talking with because as we all know, she is so unbelievably interesting and distracting!

If one can't have fun in their private closet at their beach house, where can you really let loose? I love this wild abandon on the walls both in the 'his' and the 'her' dressing areas.

The rooms were decorated as if in use, with clothes tossed around (much like my own closet!), you half expected the bathing suit and towels strewn about to be wet. I imagine she raided her own closet as well as her husband's in furnishing the clothing!

The bright orange wall color in 'his' closet is grounded against a dark ground with a green stripe (much like faux panels) which would really help to cheerfully wake you up while dressing in the morning -I love painted 'architecture' like this.

No detail was left untouched, even the door stop to the 'his' closet is a cute cast iron dog. Who wouldn't love a dressing area like either of these!

Rosemarie can be reached via facebook under the name of 'the-paint-palette' or at paintpalette2k @ yahoo . com

Sag Harbor shopping

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

While in the Hamptons, my favorite town was probably Sag Harbor. As my favorite activities are house stalking and furniture shopping, it was a natural fit!

The first stop for anyone visiting should be JED for classic glamorous style at 27 Washington Street. They also have a 1st dibs website here, definitely check it out.

Also be sure to check out Ruby Beets next door with a mix of vintage and new homegoods at 25 Washington Street. My friend Heather at Habitually Chic had recommended these stores to me and has covered them on her blog (see links) and they did not disappoint!

After all of this shopping, you're sure to work up an appetite so stop across Main Street at LT burger, where all of the local celebrities hang out for burgers and shakes (try the delicious turkey burger; Christie Brinkley's favorite, a local regular, and mine as well!).

Like the rest of the town, the restaurant has an updated vintage feeling to it: laid back, unpretentious and delicous!

Across from the harbor at 34 Harbor Street is La Maisonette -an eclectic and edited mix of mainly French antiques. I saw so many unusual quirky items here I really wanted to bring home with me!

However, my favorite shop of all (and a real treat) is the Christy's Building Art Center at 3 Madison Street.

Housing an amazing collection of art, salvaged architectural pieces and amazing antique furniture from all styles - every piece is a show stopper.

Rather than a shop, it felt more like the apartment of some incredibly stylish person with a highly edited but eclectic mix of offerings.

These built-in mahogany book cases are really gorgeous -I wonder where they came from? (and how I get my hands on them!).

My take-home piece though would have to be this painted screen showing the Place Vendome in Paris. I was too in awe to even inquire the price (i'd be willing to risk my retirement on this piece!). So while in the Hamptons, be sure to leave the allure of East Hampton to spend some time in nearby Sag Harbor!

My apologies for the poor photo quality. My camera seems to have developed a case of the 'blues'.

Looking up

2011-08-02T14:39:00.002-04:00

While I work on a few in-depth posts from recent travels, I wanted to leave you with some window boxes I noticed the other day here in DC. Who says an apartment without a garden space needs to be banal; this is amazing! I only wish my thumb were half as green. Also notice the great brick details along the cornice.

Sunny weekend

2011-07-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone is enjoying this hot sunny weather. This amazing French ormolu decoration at the Getty seems the very height of summer sun to me!

Time is ticking....

2011-07-29T09:40:00.002-04:00

This baroque chinoiserie clock from the Getty reminds me that summer is ticking away. I've had so many things going on I've barely had time to write about any of them but look forward to some interesting posts in the near future!