OFF THE WALL CLOSETS

A Jonathan Adler design

I've been researching dressing rooms for a client recently and for inspiration, I've rounded up a list of envy worthy photos that I can't wait to share with her (and you!). Plans have already been developed, but we still have to choose carpet, lighting and furniture, those design decisions that can take a room from great to extraordinary. Her dressing room will be diva Mariah Carey worthy, crafted from beautiful milled wood with rows of shoe cubbies, lined jewelry drawers, mirrored doors and a gorgeous custom desk set beneath a picture window. I'm ready to move in and it's not even built yet! Chic and glamourous, sleek and sophisticated or hopelessly romantic-what does your dream closet look like?

One of my favorites-the Ikat paneled doors, silk bench and leather pulls are so sophisticated. Designed by Stephen Gambrel

Kelly Wearstler's dressing room features bold patterned carpet and glossy gold paint are super luxe

Beautiful millwork, marble floors and a crystal chandelier is so glamorous

 Jeffery Weisman's dressing room is light infused with a gorgeous fretwork door.

 Laura Bohn's creates a luxurious retreat with texture-

 Luis Bustamante's sleek Deco inspired dressing room features lacquered cabinets and a modern nickel light fixture.

Massuco-Warner-Miller's sleek dressing room features a beautiful carved custom pocket door

For the girl who can't live without a little pink!

THE LOOK FOR LESS-NESTING TABLES

I wanted to use Oly Studio's dark shell Pauley Nesting tables for an installation recently but the $2,200 price tag was not in our budget. Crate and Barrel's Moreno nesting tables gave me the look for less. The Moreno pair have a similar dark pennshell top and circular shape and the $399 price is right on target. Have you found the "look for less" in your home decor? Tell me about it!

MANUEL CANOVAS PALI

I can't step foot in the Cowtan and Tout showroom without a visit to admire my favorite Manuel Canovas print, Pali.  I've been obsessed with the stunning tropical print for years. The sophisticated pattern of gorgeous fruits and florals is complimented by a palette of bright and bold hues that Canovas is so known for. You can't go wrong with Pali for a dose of instant glamour!

I love the flirty and feminine use of Pali in Katrin Cargill's bedroom.

 Amanda Nisbet captures feminine glamour in her master bath.

 Chic black and white gets a boost with a pop of ballet pink.

 His latest collection features this year's color darling, purple in all its gorgeous shades.  Daring graphic prints and reinterpreted classic floral motifs create a sophisticated elegance.

FRIDAY FINDS-RISD/WORKS

 I recently came across this pretty sea urchin salt cellar ($40) by Celia Landman on the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) website. The gift store site showcases a selection of art, jewelry and home accessories designed and produced by RISD students and faculty. It's a great resource for amazing gifts at great prices-best of all, the profits go back to RISD for special programs. There are hundreds of beautifully designed items featured on the site, here are a few of my favorites:

 Nesting tables by Paul Loebach ($400)

 Round Framed record mirror ($135) Jeff Davis

 Gummy bracelet ($40) Yasmin Khun

 Take Out light by Chris Haines ($48)

 Penguin Pocket Pillow ($104)  Stephanie Housley

 Oyster soap dish ($28) Alison Evans

Square Ribbon vase ($90) Peter Hewitt 

Giraffe toilet brush ($16) Christopher Raia

And the winner of the MacKenzie-Childs tray is Design Chic-congratulations! 

BRAVA ISABEL!

When I visited Spain this past summer I was inspired by the stunning historical architecture of Madrid and amazed by the harmonious blend of old and new in many of its fine hotels. Not knowing much about modern Spanish design, I picked up several design magazines and saw within their pages the work of interior designer Isabel Lopez-Quesada. I was immediately drawn to her keen sense of balance and proportion and her genius blend of old and new. Her work embraces symmetry, both in the architecture and design of her projects, which is something that I aspire to do in my own work. I hope you enjoy her designs as much as I do.

FRIDAY FINDS-PRETTY BALERINAS

Except for the occasional hop in a taxi or subway, I walk nearly everywhere in the city. It's difficult pounding the pavement and looking good and I've spent years searching for the perfect walking shoe-it has to be cute and comfortable, sturdy and chic. A few years ago I popped into a new store in my neighborhood, Pretty Ballerinas (you can find them online) and was instantly smitten. Hundreds of pretty ballerinas in bright colors, some with dashing bows and buckles, all with that perfect little walking heel. I stopped by yesterday and found these delicious little Halloween flats-perfect for Monday's trick or treating!  

Have a wonderful weekend! I will be dodging snowflakes this weekend-how about you?