Monday, April 30, 2012

HATS OFF!

I've spent hours looking for just the right spring hat-not of the floppy brimmed, keep the sun out of your eyes variety, but a sophisticated, frothy confection, perfect for the very chic Frederick Law Olmstead Awards Luncheon that takes place this week in The Conservatory Garden in New York City's Central Park. Frederick Law Olmsted is, of course, known as the father of American landscape architecture.  He designed many renowned urban parks, including New York's Central Park, and the luncheon is a celebration of our beautiful city parks. Better known among the ladies who attend as "The Hat Luncheon" the event is hosted by the Women's Committee of the Central Park Conservancy and is always so much fun.  No matter the weather, the lunch is always a beautiful affair, with the park's gardens in full bloom and hundreds of ladies in chic spring suits and extraordinary hats. Oh, those hats! Some are glamorous chapeaus festooned with flowers and bows, but the ones I'm always in awe of are the cheeky, humorous ones: potted plants. caged hummingbirds and butterflies--I can't wait to see this years new crop! 











photos courtesy of New York Social Diary

Friday, April 27, 2012

GO BOLD

Dessin Fournir Showroom
I made a trip to one of my favorite shops yesterday, the Dessin Fournir shop in the Arts Building.  Their beautiful furniture line is inspired by classical European design but interpreted with sleek, transitional forms.  Everything is bench made and artisan crafted;  everything is simply gorgeous. I usually can't take my eyes off their stunning, almost sculptural dining room tables but their new spring installation had all my attention. Soft white and cream upholstered pieces juxtaposed a bold, Matisse inspired wall of blue and white.  The effect was dazzling. As much as I loved the vignette, I knew that if I tried to replicate the wall at home it would look like a bad school project. Too bad--"I'm ready for a dose of bold", I mused. Two stops later Clarence House came to my rescue when I spied a David Hicks pattern called The Vase. Of course, I was drawn to the larger than life navy and white pattern- it's a bold and chic choice, that felt just right to me.  
Are you feeling bold in any of your rooms?











Wednesday, April 25, 2012

HICKS STYLE

I've loved David Hick's classic hexagon wallpaper from Cole and Son for ages. The graphic print isn't for the timid, especially in the black and gold foil colorway which is all about sophisticated glamour. The paper especially shines in small spaces like a guest bath or entry foyer where the bold print can make a maximum impact. I've waited for just the right time (and client) to use the classic print and am finally getting my chance.  Stay tuned for my idea of modern foyer perfection, wrapped in a dazzling Hicks print.







Monday, April 23, 2012

BEHIND THE PRIVET: QUEEN ANNE SPLENDOUR

I'm usually not a big fan of the Queen Anne style--a little too fussy for me, but this beautiful East Hampton home has a commanding presence that is softened by the delicate woodwork embellishments and porches, creating a perfectly picturesque summer home aesthetic.
The house was designed by Carnegie Hall architect, William B. Tuthill in 1891 on Lee Avenue in the estate section of East Hampton for Charles H. Adams. It was recently painstakingly restored, retaining its original splendor with 6 period fireplaces, glass leaded windows throughout, 14 bedrooms and a grand staircase with wood paneled walls in the foyer. Interiors have retained their historic charm, updated with a soft muted palette and furnished with an eclectic mix of traditional antiques and transitional pieces. The result--sublime beach chic!











Friday, April 20, 2012

FRIDAY FINDS-CHIC NESTING BOXES


I'm always looking for new ways to store my fabric and rug samples and came upon these cute storage totes from Roberta Freyman that are perfect for the job.  The handled totes come in several stylish Freyman prints and look so great, they can take you from the office to around town in style!

Thursday, April 19, 2012

CENTRAL PARK INSPIRATION

I was invited to a breakfast in Central Park yesterday to celebrate the Tree Trust of the Central Park Conservancy, a non-profit that care of the parks 24,000 trees. It's a fantastic organization and so important to all of us that live in the city. The park is our backyard and playground-its where we go for picnics, take our children to play and walk the pooch--it's our version of country life in the city.
I joined the park tour they gave after breakfast and it was  spectacular--trees and flowers were in full bloom, bursting with hot pinks, bold yellows and shades of purple. I veered off from the group when I saw the wisteria pergola with it's canopy bursting with the heavy lavender hued blooms. The long walkway that lead under the delicate canopy gave me the chance to enjoy the intoxicating blooms that are here so briefly. Sharing with you some images from yesterday and a little wisteria inspiration for your springtime day!


Central Park Pergola




Tabletop Inspiration
Yesterday, a brownstone on my street...
and from around the world...



Have a lovely day!

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

A PRETTY POUR


I just love my morning coffee-more than a delicious wake up drink, it's part of my morning ritual, and a necessity if you don't want to bump into someone really cranky later in the day.  One or two cups and a quick read of the paper and I'm charged and ready to go.  How to keep your Java piping hot in style? A chic little carafe from Pigment has a dyed picot straw woven wrapped base and comes in delicious cappucino and bianchi colorways.  And later, when its time for a cocktail, Pigment sets the tone with a modern straw wrapped little ice bucket that compliments any decor.  Nothing left to say but cheers!