Category: Accessories

As a designer I appreciate all kinds of furniture from very traditional to modern and contemporary ones.  An Interior designer should be able to create all different kinds of style for their clients.  From contemporary design to traditional, from glamorous to unpretentious ones.  My lovely mother-in-law, whose taste is more contemporary, once told me “you don’t like modern” and my response was “I like modern furniture with classical reference.” We find comfort in what we know and/or we can relate to, so these types iconic furniture which are modern but have been around for over half a century are the kinds that offer an incredible balance between tradition and modern.  Here are some of my favorite Modern classic furniture.

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Eileen Gray’s bibendum chair

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Le Corbusier chaise lounge.

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Le Corbusier arm chair

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Saarinen Executive side chair

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Bertoia side chair

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
 Mies Van Der Rohe

 

Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
Hans Wegner
Modern classic furniture via belle vivir interior design blog
Eames side chairs

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Why can’t I be a Rolls Royce soccer mom?

The days when there was no reality TV and the dirty laundry was washed inside the house are unfortunately long gone.  No need to say what times we are living now.  One more reason why I love history and am very appreciative of the organizations that have done the work to preserve them.  These images from the Conde Nast Photo Archives speak for themselves.  Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

Veruschka at Piazza di San Giorgio

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I have noticed that there are not many options for beautiful bags priced under the thousands.  It seems everyone think it’s Hermes.  I have a great obsession with bags and look to buy one at least every year.  But keeping up with Designer handbags can get very expensive.  There are many nice looking options available at affordable retail stores but, they may not be as durable.  I’m particularly interested in bags that come with both, a short handle and shoulder handle.  I appreciate the flexibility of carrying it either on my shoulder, arm or hand.  These bags listed here below offer that flexibility and more while being affordable and chic.  Below, a roundup of chic affordable bags.

a roundup of chic affordable bags via belle vivir blog
Marc by Marc Jacobs Scofty School bag.
a roundup of chic affordable bags  via belle vivir blog
Dooney & Bourke Florentine Flap Tab Satchel.
a roundup of chic affordable bags  via belle vivir blog

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Affordable pintings U gallery- belle vivir blog
 Brian Elston
Affordable pintings U gallery- belle vivir blog
 Alan Taylor Jeffries
I’ve been looking for big art to embellish the walls of our new home in Sao Paulo.  Since it’s going to be a rental there’s not much permanent architectural changes we’ll be able to do so,
on art we’ll rely.  Not that that’s a headache to anyone, I suppose.  One of my favorite genre
is abstract expressionism maybe because the stokes are so intense and powerful that there is little they need around them to complement.  Another reason is that expressionism goes with almost every kind of decor. I was lucky and happy to come across U Gallery.
A gallery that sells great original and professional art for ridiculous prices.  They also have a seven day in home trail.   You’ll really know if it works in your environment.  I have found fantastic art that is very similar to well recognized and expensive artists.  I personally
think it’s sad and unfair how many painters become sought-after and famous after they die, that’s why I like to support live artists.

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Love the mixture of rustic and elegance in this bathroom where the sink bases are of gun metal finish. If you are like me, maybe it’s too soon to think about any other finish than antique brass but, because not all interiors are created equal and because each comes with it’s respective finishing requirement and necessity, here is Gun Metal finish.  Gun Metal has that sophisticated rustication in it that proves that Glamour can be shared with a more laid back environment.  It’s a great alternative for spaces that are less pretentious.

 gun metal finish
gun metal finish
Alexa Hampton’s Sophia flush mount.  In love with it!
gun metal finish
I’m not suggesting the chair to go with the table.  A contrasting set of white chairs would be a much better option.
gun metal finish
Oviedo Leather Chaise via Restoration Hardware
A dramatic nail polish in Gun Metal finish does not appeal to everyone but it’ll for sure make a statement.
gun metal finish
Cross Handles low-spout faucet via Kallista.

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 Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

While visiting Columbus, OH a couple of weeks ago I came across my newest obsession: Mid-Century Italian pottery.  I purchased these two pieces (above) and I am so happy with them.  I didn’t know much about Mid-century Italian ceramic when I got them but it has for sure awakened my interest in knowing more.  All I know is that they are hand-thrown, embossed, painted and then glazed.  Each piece of ceramic can be as diverse as Italian pasta sauce can be, having that Global-Chic look I so much love, I think I found a reason to start a new collection.

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

Gambono Style mid-century horse in gilded Italian pottery available here.

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

this piece of glam is available here.

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

 These set of striped Raymor Era ceramic vases are available here

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

Whimsical pair of table lamps, here.

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

This entire collection, designed by Aldo Londi in the 1950’s for Bitossi has been re-produced and is available here.  Below, two homes featuring Mid-century Italian pottery and plates.

Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir
Mid-Century Italian Pottery via belle vivir

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