Yesterday I spent some time in the Kate Spade store with my daughter. Little did I realize, until close inspection, the carefully curated collection of design elements—most hearkening to the 1950′s. I spy iconic Scalamandre zebra wallpaper in the dressing room, a Madeline Weinrib tibetan rug, Cole and Son palm leaf wallpaper, what appears to be a bonified collection of C.Jere bronze sculptures, and vintage furniture— all under one roof in the Chestnut Hill Mall!
The walls are covered in a high gloss aqua displaying an artful mix of oil paintings. Found objects and works on paper add to the character of the space. Who knew such an eclectic mix of design elements would confront me as my daughter perused colorful purses on the sale table? Now that’s calling a Spade a Spade!
I have wanted one of these beverage dispensers for years, but haven’t pulled the trigger for no apparent reason. But, with sweltering temperatures here in Boston (I can’t complain), and the sun shining, I think it’s high time I invest. When I lived in LA I was a big ZGallerie shopper; they have great affordable accessories. I think the trio dispenser is calling my name. How about you?
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Trio Dispenser 2.
Glass Dispenser 3.
Ceylon Pitcher 4.
Apothecary Dispenser 5.
Beverage Jar with Stand
All the rage for the past few years has been globally-inspired prints, Ikats, block prints and such. These are nothing new or revolutionary, but Ikat’s lesser known relative, the Suzani, is just as cool.
A tribal textile, the Suzani can appear to be a sun or even a round flower. Who knows or really cares exactly what it is… Less ubiquitous than Ikat, but equally as ethnic-chic, a piece of Suzani mixes well in most environments. Vintage ones are coveted, and can be very expensive, but they are worth every penny as they are collectible. Seen here in the work of big-time LA designer, Martyn Lawrence Bullard:
My all time favorite color is green. I can’t get enough of it, chartreuse, apple green, olive—love them all. I consider green a true neutral, especially when muted down. But it pairs well with anything, from beiges to blues to pinks, purples, yellows and beyond. Spring is a season of green, and while it may not be your favorite color, maybe some inspiration will make you take a second look at going green…
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Time after time, I encounter push back when confronted with the choice of painting wood trimmed interior mouldings and windows. Some believe painting original trim compromises the integrity of the design of their home, and to a degree, it may.
Especially if the home is historically significant. But, who cares? My belief is that painted trim is simply a more visually appealing option, no matter what vintage the home is. Just because you live in an old home does not dictate that you need to embrace old styles. Painted trim is clean, fresh and happy. My go- to color is White Dove by Benjamin Moore.
So when deciding to paint or not to paint your trim, consider treating your trim as you would old carpet or scuffed floors. Don’t be afraid to freshen up!
1. Ruthie Sommers
via House Beautiful 2. Meg Braff via
House Beautiful 3. Image via Better Homes + Gardens 4.
Charles Spada via New England Home
