Month: April 2012

10Apr

Library

library design
 A wall of white bookcases packed with books juxtaposed a gorgeous sawhorse black table.  via Pinterest

I recently read that one of the latest amenities in the hot New York City real estate market is to provide buildings with common libraries.  Many of the exclusive buildings offering this kind of convenience to their future buyers have in their shelves only Architecture and Design related books and usually from luxury Publishing houses as Assouline. I can understand why this would be a catch for buyers especially those looking for a luxury lifestyle living.  A library feels old school and cozy and there’s always a welcoming feeling.  I don’t think there is anything else other than a library, or simple bookcases with books, that can make a house instantly feel a home.  Enjoy!

library design
 Haynes-Roberts Inc.  OMG! the floor, the floor, checkered marble floors.  Am I about to faint here?

Read More…

05Apr

Easter

It’s probably not accidental that Easter is in Spring.  It’s the most appropriate time to stop and smell the roses while giving thanks for all the wonderful things in our lives. 
I am to spend this weekend just as I like it, in the company of family.  I hope you get to spend the weekend doing whatever it is you love to do. 

Happy Easter.
image via Vogue
03Apr

Designer I’ll always look up to: Albert Hadley 1920-2012

The sad news of the death of Albert Hadley is vastly known by now.  The Dean of American Decorators is one of those few outliers in Interior Design who have created spaces that will be timeless forever.  As he said himself  “Decorating is not about making stage sets, it’s not about making pretty pictures for the magazines; it’s really about creating a quality of life, a beauty that nourishes the soul.” And he certainly did, and in multiple of occasions, by creating homes that were as beautiful as they were interesting and unique.  

I had the enormous pleasure of meeting him in two separate occasions and one of the things about him that most made me admire him was his humbleness and kind demeanor.  Two qualities that are difficult to find in a media where large egos and self aggrandizement is abound. His legacy will always be a source of inspiration and a model for me.  As well as to many others I’m sure.

“But names really are not the point, it’s what you can achieve for the simplest person. Glamour is part of it, but glamour is not the essence. Design is about discipline and reality, not about fantasy beyond reality.” Albert Hadley

  R.I.P., Mr. Hadley
02Apr

Orange and Yellow

Yes, it’s possible and it could still be sophisticated and soothing.  The room above is seducing me with its stunning juxtaposition of modern and classic.  The Arne Jacobsen egg chair practically goes with everything so does the regency bench and the multiple arm sconce.  I loooove this one.

I love this outfit.  Like this set above.  via Colour Planet
 
Inspiring composition of different yellows and oranges.  via
 In this room, even when full of color, there is a soothing atmosphere.