ArchivesMarch, 2011

As far as paint colors, I think you know by now that I am a Farrow and Ball girl. Such quality paint and classic colors. But, I just might jump ship and fall in love with Stark’s David Oliver paint line; the colors are so true and deep and gorgeous.

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What you see on the chart really is what you will see on the wall. From England (it’s no surprise, is England the paint mecca?), these colors have the most unusual range—like nothing I have seen before. Love them. My samples were inexpensive and the paint shipped overnight once ordered. Easy breezy.

Never in a million years would I think I would be the owner of several vintage Fortuny pillows. When I was younger, I thought Fortuny was the kind of label reserved only for “ladies who lunch”… And now, I am obsessed with certain things Fortuny.

I LOVE vintage Fortuny pillows on a clean lined sofa or chair. Or even a not-so-modern one, but mixed with other textiles like a wonderful animal print and solid velvets. They can make a modern sofa feel eclectic.

I would not, however, put them on a heavily carved or too formal piece of furniture; taken too seriously or in too large a dose, the fabric seems to lose its strength of character, in my opinion. I prefer Fortuny pillows unadorned—save the tassel trim for grandma, please. One or two pillows in a single room is just right. Try them on a super contemporary upholstered piece for a real surprise. Find the Authentic Vintage Fortuny Textile Pillows here.

As far as lighting, my new favorite fixture is a modern interpretation of the classic Fortuny silk fixture. Made by Oly Studio, I think this Sabina chandelier looks and feels like Fortuny, but has a contemporary sensibility. Now, if I could just get one of my clients to let me use it—in a foyer it would be a knockout!

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This is the real McCoy: a fine Fortuny fixture. See how fabulous it looks in a danish modern room? Design by Frank Roop.

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Saturated with color, these would liven up a modern sofa. Image via House Beautiful. Photo by Karyn R. Millet.

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In a simple tailored bedroom, one lilac Fortuny pillow does it. Image via Veranda. Design by Shannon Bowers. Photo by Peter Vitale.

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Here’s a special treat for today! Please click to view my first guest post on the premier New England Home Magazine’s Design Blog. It’s all about outdoor patio furniture for us New Englanders!

If I come back one day, I want to come back as Miranda Lambert. I watched her “unplugged” last night and what a dynamo she is. Her melodies and lyrics are so fresh, fun and raw; I think if I met her, we might have some views in common.

In all of her songs there is empowerment for women (and I don’t mean the annoying kind), and it is really on target. She is not a walking skeleton, seems to live a semi-real life and tells it like it is. The one thing she isn’t is a pushover; and I do love that about her.

So today, as I swiffered my floors, I turned up the Ipod loud and listened to Miranda’s “Revolution”. And, I can tell you, my house got a little bit cleaner! Have a look:

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