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Archive for the ‘Designs From Merlin Drive’ Category

Kravet: Ted Fall

Kravet: Ted Fall

Yesterday was my day at Denise Maurer Interiors. We met with Ted Fall our Kravet consultant, he was excited to talk about some new fabrics, carpets and wall coverings from Kravet, Lee Jofa and Brunschwig & Fils. Here are some highlights from our meeting! Here is Ted  Fall holding up one of our favorite fabrics of the day!!!!

Ted Fall Kravet

Ted Fall Kravet

Brunschwig & Fils Le Jardin

Chinoiserie Le Jardin

Chinoiserie Le Jardin

Le Jardin Chinois Collection celebrates the fantasy and timelessness of chinoiserie. This as you know from past posts is a design that intrigues me! It takes me to an elegant faraway place and holds my imagination. European trade with China brought about a passion for chinoiserie, a style that captured fantasies of Chinese life ~ephemeral pagodas, long-tailed birds, men in coolie hats, flower laden vines. During the 18th century, French artist Jean Baptiste Pillement combined Chinese themes in a particular and stylish manner which proved to be very popular. Jean Baptiste Pillement  was a painter and designer, known for his exquisite and delicate landscapes, but whose importance lies primarily in the engravings done after his drawings, and their influence in spreading the Rococo style and particularly the taste for chinoiserie throughout Europe.

Brunschwig & Fils

Brunschwig & Fils

In 1941, Brunschwig & Fils founder Roger Brunschwig went off to war and his wife, Zelina, took over the family business. Mrs. B, as she was affectionately called, was a woman of great style, sophistication and inventiveness. Mrs. B is credited with developing the brand and aesthetic of Brunschwig & Fils as we know it today and for introducing scheming into its marketing efforts. Her motto “Good Design Is Forever” still holds true today.

These new collections bring a colorful approach to design with linen embroidery and crewel. Featuring bright colors, bold graphic patterns, geometric, abstract and comtemporay linear patterns that range in both vivid colors and neutrals. We were all inspired by the colorful animal prints, paisley, and Ikat fabrics that are the trend this season!

Some other fabrics Ted Fall shared with us…

Mulberry Fabric

Mulberry Fabric

Johnathan Adler

Johnathan Adler

Here are some Cheveron patterns that again have made a comeback with Johnathan Adler for kravet!

Cheveron earth tones

Cheveron earth tones

Thanks to Ted Fall for his time and sharing Kravet, Lee Jofa and Brunschwig & Fils designs in new carpets, wall coverings and fabrics. I’m looking forward to going to New York City  May 20-21, 2013 and visiting Blogfest 2013, hope to see you all there!

Blogfest 2013

Blogfest 2013

                                                                                              Blogfest 2013!!!!

Kravet is once again hosting for Interior Design Bloggers a two-day event.  Featured designers and design collaborations: Candice Olson, Thom Filicia and Sara Peterson. Also sponsors include Kravet, Lee Jofa, Brunschwig and Fils, Newel (whose showroom I’ve visited on many occasions and actually met Mr. Newel on one of my visits!) New York Spaces, HGTV Interiors, Wilsonart, Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse and ICFF.

Here is some information you’ll need:

This event is: Private

Admission Fee: $100.00
On Twitter: @blogfest2013

Please click on the widget on my sidebar for a link to the site and register!!

As always stay tuned for more adventures in Styleland!!

XOXO

M

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Spring is just around the corner, and one of the best ways to celebrate the season of new beginnings is to mix some of today’s fresh new fabrics into home decor. If you’re sad to see prints like the lattice, trellis and chevron start to lose traction, never fear. Many of these designs are still around, but with a twist. And other clean, bold styles are emerging. Below we spotlight some fabric patterns that are back in style. They are “new” in the sense that they are causing a stir this season, but you’ve definitely seen them (or some version of them) before. Check them out!

Ikat

Ikat Fabric designs unite centuries-old modes of craftsmanship with many gorgeously suffused palettes. Ikat literally translates as ‘to bind,’ hinting at the intricate processes involved in its making.

New Ikat Patterns

New Ikat Patterns

The ikat pattern takes the traditional chevron and gives it a little blur, ikat style. This is such a stylish and current design decor. The soft shades of gray with just a hint of yellow make it a perfect neutral choice. Chevron pulses with youthful energy. Perhaps that’s why it’s so popular with customers in their 20s and 30s. It’s fun to see their faces light up when they walk into stores and see fireball chairs.

If you’re closer to my age, chances are when you see chevrons you are reminded of the flame-stitch patterns that were so popular back in the day. Believe me, today’s chevrons are not like those kooky patterns in your mom’s living room. Done in turquoise, coral and emerald, they look brand-new. I love a chevron mixed in with more traditional fabrics in pillow arrangements, whether on a sofa or bed, to give the overall look more zip.

 

Ikat Chevron Pattern

Ikat Chevron Pattern

Carole Fabrics

Carole Fabrics

This Carole Fabric has been so popular, the citrine and blue together are exquisite! This fabric would make a great window seat!

Honeycomb

A honeycomb resurgence has been in the works on for the last few years, but recently designs have shifted away from heavily outlined prints and toward more natural, modern renditions. The Honeycomb Crewel Pillow Cover from West Elm, shown below, features a raised textural surface and an elongated design.

Honeycomb Pattern

Honeycomb Pattern

These patterns geometric in design are more classic with a modern twist!

Honeycomb

I love not only the honeycomb pattern but the color combination used on this distinctive light shade! Imagine building a room’s colors around this palette. Learn more at Shades of Light

Honeycomb Light Shade

Honeycomb Light Shade

 

Trellis

The Imperial Trellis pattern is nothing new but it has been making a big statement in interiors lately.  I must say, I think I am falling in love!

Imperial Trellis Schumacher

Imperial Trellis Schumacher

It is everywhere from upholstery, drapery, accessories and even wall paper. I am loving this dining room below.  The trellis pattern can be a bit busy as with any pattern, but this design was executed perfectly!  It is balanced with the white color palette and simple forms in the space.  There are so many traditional elements in this space yet it has a clean modern feel, my favorite!

trellis1                                                                                               Kelly Wearstler’s trellis is one of the most popular here are a few other favorites.

Fioretto Graphite

Fioretto Graphite

 

Dura Lee Covington

Dura Lee Covington

This great pattern is a Relaxed Roman on my Etsy Store!

 

 

Lattice

I must say that Trellis and Lattice are almost one in the same, but today’s designers have given yesterday’s lattice patterns a modern vibe. Even though the new look in lattice motifs is big and bold, this reinterpreted classic is really pretty quiet, so it works well mixed in with fabrics that are stronger, brighter and busier.

 

Lattice Chairs

Lattice Chairs

My favorite way to use lattice fabrics right now is on side chairs. They create an interesting backdrop for a host of fun decorative treatments in a room.

JeannieBottleTeal

Lattices also are ideal for layering, whether you’re pulling together window treatments or a grouping of accent pillows on a bedding ensemble that is as perky as a cup of morning coffee.

Carole Fabric

Carole Fabric

Lattice panels and pillows

Lattice panels and pillows

 

 

Lattice or Trellis??

Lattice or Trellis??

 

Scales

Sometimes mod, sometimes purely modern, the fish scale pattern can be traced back through a variety of decades, sporting an equal variety of looks. In this decade, the print has re-emerged on pillows, rugs and bedding, such as the Coral Lamu Duvet from Serena & Lily:

Fish Scale Design

Fish Scale Design

The pattern also comes in shades of brown and coral, making a striking statement as bedding, especially when paired with an upholstered headboard. The Chocolate and Coral Fish Scale Euro Shams can be seen in the images that follow. While the pattern is advertised as sporting a bohemian style, the curves of the print can veer into Art Deco territory with the right accessories.

Fish Scale

Fish Scale

 

 

If you’re a true Hollywood Regency enthusiast who appreciates a clean-lined geometric pattern, you’ll love the Scales Pillows in Citron and Teal, Fabric from Spoon Flower. These Down filled pillows would make a statement in any room!

Spoon Flower Fabric

Spoon Flower Fabric

 

What do you think of these “new” fabric patterns? It’s nice to change things up, right?! Trends are clearly leaning toward the tribal. If tribal style is a reaction to crisp, clean-lined patterns, then what could be next? Another celebration of defined, outlined prints? Hope you enjoyed this take on patterns…

 

As always, stay tuned for more Adventures in Styleland!!!

 

XOXO

 

M

 

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The Interior Designers that I have had the pleasure of working with approach their work with enthusiasm and discrimination, seeking out fine craftsmen, choice shops and journeying to inspiring destinations just to feed their aesthetic appetites (and sometimes find and item of choice for their clients). Always searching with a keen eye, as they see what becomes part of their design plan, shaping the structures and spaces they devise.

Observations and obsessions lead us as we travel. Wherever we are design is always on our mind. We take inspiration from public places looking at the use of mill work, tile, architecture and substrates that we are exposed to. Hotels are one of my favorite places for inspiration, from the flooring to lighting, so much to take in. Color, texture and of course the architecture of some of the most spectacular buildings. The Waldorf Astoria has to be one of my favorites (I’m a New York City girl).

Waldorf Astoria

Waldorf Astoria

I remember looking into the entry to see this great sight!! I was a little girl and still could see the Waldorf’s opulence and ingenuity in design.

 

Waldorf Astoria 1

Whenever I travel I seek out every building I’ve heard or read about. Always looking for Architecture,  local Artists and Interior Designers that have their works available to the public, whether they are minimalist or collectors of fine furnishing you can usually see their inspiration in their work. As William T Georgis has said ” I go to London for eccentricity, Los Angeles for Clarity, and Paris for Paris.”

bunny_headshot

Bunny Williams says “Inspiration can come from many places. Attend a lecture given by someone you admire. Go on local house or garden tours. Watch Ina Garten on the Food Network. Subscribe to magazines; I can not wait for mine to arrive each month. Buy as many books as you can-a library is always a great source of inspiration.  And travel, travel, travel; the world offers so many treasures.”

 

 

As for me I get a healthy dose of inspiration every Wednesday.  I mentor with Denise Maurer of Maurer Interiors. Denise Maurer  is a talented interior designer who shares a strategy of success as well as her secrets for great design. I’ve been invited several times to accompany her on various projects, to watch and learn. She’s always so generous with my endless question . I enjoy being in her office when the phone rings so I can just listen to her talk to potential clients. It’s always an education, from handling paper work to the latest software for design, this is my go to place for inspiration! I have been very fortunate to find such generous woman to mentor me. She gives me her time, knowledge, and energy and I have been very blessed to know her. Here is some of her work:

 

Showhouse Kitchen

Showhouse Kitchen

 

MaurerLR_jpg_w560h695

 

Where can you find inspiration? Begin your search for the perfect pieces by starting in your home. What do you cherish the most? Inspiration for decorating your home may come from something you already have: a cherished piece of artwork or maybe some beautiful china.  Perhaps a favorite piece of upholstery fabric can reveal your colour palette preferences as well as your taste for either formal or casual styles.

Whatever your style preference, be creative, let your inspiration move you. As always stay tuned….

 

XOXO

 

M

 

 

 

 

 

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My Mothers 1st Home.

My Mothers 1st Home.

Design was a natural calling for me, the daughter of an italian seamstress from Brooklyn, I learned at an early age the profound effect space and surroundings can have on your thoughts, your moods and your life. I feel my creativity is a God-given gift – one that flowes from my Mother. Our home was always a place of inspiration and beauty.

Sundays with Mother Theresa were a day set aside from others.  On Sunday, when the table was set,  it was like a journey back to a dinning hall from centuries ago, with candles burning in sconces, or candelabra’s on the table and a beautiful chandelier overhead (which still hangs above my sisters dining room table today). China and crystal  adorn the table. The waft of the freshly made sauce hung in the air, as the dinner course emerges, the freshly baked panettone with raisins, oranges and nuts was kept warm in the oven for desert.

At Holidays my mother would decorate, with simple boughs decorated with fruit slices, cinnamon sticks and glass ornaments that were handed down from our Grandmother. Our gifts were wrapped in neutral colored paper that was used to make sewing patterns, and decorated with fabric rosettes and tassels from drapery tie backs. She had a box of ribbons that she would reuse, gorgeous organza and beautiful soft colored silks. Our presents were gifts themselves, a gift of love and her time. She made our clothing, draperies and upholstered our furniture in exquisite fabrics. Her handmade clothing and furnishings had such a strong influence on me. I’m honored to be part of a legacy that embraces the imaginative spirit and creates beauty for the enjoyment of others – this is what I truly love doing.

To me, interior design is about uncovering the heart and soul of a person, a family, and then reinterpreting that essence in tangible, creative ways. I believe the aesthetics and emotional feel of a space are just as important as the functionality. Your  environment should provide inspiration and comfort, while supporting and facilitating your daily routine.

Enjoy some pictures from my past.. This is the world I came from..

 

Beautiful Damask walls, Curtains made by Mom, She also made our dresses!!

Beautiful Damask walls, Curtains made by Mom, She also made our dresses!!

Wow looking at this picture, really tells me why I love damask!!! My mothers dress was so pretty,  love the ruffles around the neck and down the front, I would wear this today!! She always had such vision!!

 

One of her clothing designs, my sister wore to a wedding!!

One of her clothing designs, my sister wore to a family wedding!!

 

I remember coming home and my sister modeling this!! The chiffon blouse and silk pants that matched!!! What a creative design.. My mother was always on the cutting edge!!! I loved this so much, she made me an outfit too, in a powder blue and white!!

In the background on the walls is a stencil that my mother found. It was a roller and the design was applied vertically. I found a link to these rollers on Apartment Therapy. They are still sold on Etsy from The Painted House.

 

My father was our handyman, he was amazing by himself but, together they were a design team!! He always helped my Mother, he was a upholsterer, painter, carpenter and just a loving, devoted husband!! Together they created my world, and impacted my life as a designer.  I believe your interiors should be an accurate reflection of you – your individuality, your personality, your life. I uphold authenticity and simplicity as guide posts – two qualities I find to be intimately connected.

 

As always stay tuned for more Adventures in Styleland….

 

XOXO

 

M

 

 

 

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The art of Gift Wrapping!!

The art of Gift Wrapping!!

Holiday Gifts: How to make yours stand out

November 21, 2012 at 9:31 am by TU Magazines

The Art of Wrap

By Janet Reynolds/Life@Home

Sure, you can cover a box with some holiday paper, stick on a bow, maybe some ribbon and call it a day. Or with just a little extra time and ingenuity you can create something that has recipients feeling special before the box is even open.

We asked interior designer Denise Maurer, of Maurer Interiors in Troy, aided by interior designer Michele Conti, of Designs by Michele in Niskayuna, along with a secret elf who wants to remain nameless, for their best wrapping tips. Here are just a few of their wonderful ideas.

Bright Idea!  Save wallpaper scraps and you’ve always got gift wrap on hand.

Just about anything can take on a second life as a gift decoration.

Bright Idea!  Use a mini picture-frame instead of  a card.

Who says red and green are the only holiday gift wrapping colors?

Among the goodies Maurer and Conti used for these natural-looking wraps are wallpaper, brown paper bags, retired drapery tassels, older Christmas tree ornaments and, of course, pine cones.

Maurer’s top tip: Wrap first; embellish later. “You can focus on how it all goes together that way,” she says. Maurer saves bits of everything. “I’m always looking at something and thinking what could I do with this?”

Who says red and green are the only holiday gift wrapping colors? Both Maurer and Conti try to color-coordinate their wrapping. Here, peacock feathers and bits of former ornaments help make these packages pop.

Why take the time? “It’s a lot of fun putting it together,” Maurer says. “And it’s nice to unwrap something you don’t want to unwrap.”

Adds Conti, “It’s part of the gift.”

What every wrapper should have on-hand

  • glue gun
  • glue stick
  • double-sided clear tape
  • floral wire
  • regular clear tape

Photos by Colleen Ingerto/Life@Home

Great ideas for gift wrapping, holiday or any occasion!! Enjoy!!

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Nancy and Ruby Wokowsky Ganesvroot Home

Nancy and Ruby Wokowsky Ganesvroot Home

This month I was published in a local magazine that comes out once a month, it contains articles on home decorating and ideas for the DIY’er. I was happy to see my clients home on the cover as well as a generous spread in the magazine,  I’d like to share some of the photos, click on Life @ Home for the link.  Enjoy!!! This is a great home, I was honored to work with this couple and be part of their design team,  here are some interior pictures!!

Dining Room

Dining Room

Relaxed Roman Shades were done with Dura Lee Fabric, Faux Silks Pattern: 32191,  Trim: by DKEI Tassle Ball Fringe G0515oe. Shade by custom work room. Contact Designs by Michele @ 518 852-4185 For details.

Nancy and Rudy

Nancy and Rudy

My Clients the Wokowsky’s, great couple with a passion for life, love and family. Rudy and Nancy said they’re home was an on going project for 20 years!

Front Stair case

Front Staircase

Rudy uncovered this beam when they opened the wall in the front entry, to the living room.

Living Room Window Treatments,

Living Room Window Treatments,

The London Shades in Seabrook Fabric: Disturbance color Chocolate, Relaxed Roman in Dura Lee Casements Pattern: 50951 Color: Ivory Window Treatments by Designs By Michele 518 852-4185.

staircase

Front Staircase looking down to entry.

dining room

Ceiling Medallions Rudy added!

This is truly the stove that Nancy uses both to heat the home and cook!

This is truly the stove that Nancy uses both to heat the home and cook!

Dressing room off the Master Suite

Dressing room off the Master Suite

Valances were by Country Curtains, Custom Relaxed Romans in DuraLee, Eyelash Sheers, Pattern: 50813 Color: Lake

Window Treatments created by Designs by Michele 518 852-4185

Some of the soffits that Rudy restored when the home was first purchased.

Some of the soffits that Rudy restored when the home was first purchased.

Some of the intricate painting by Certa Pro Painters.

Hope you enjoyed the photos, take a moment to read the article about this beautiful country home!! Stay Tuned…….

XOXO

M

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This year I was totally out of my realm. Perfect is how I always do a holiday!!! This year was more relaxed to say the least. but my home (as a designer is usually over the top)  this year….Not so much… Clearly not a sign of things to come I can assure you, but phrases like “less is more”  and words like “thrifty” were our motto as we attempted to finish a huge project (painting the livingroom, dining room and kitchen) we took on a week before Thanksgiving! OH MY DEAR LORD! What in heaven’s name was I thinking. This ment exhaustion, stress and I have to say, my home was not ready for entertaining and no window treatments (hence the “Less is more” phrase came into play here!!!) Some Pictures of the before and after…

Before

Before

After

After

So here I am New Years Day ! Reflecting on all I have accomplished  during the holidays, our home was crazy busy!!!! Working, caring for our children, baking, shopping, taking care of Mother Theresa, Decorating, Thanksgiving, Christmas and finally New Year!!!!!!!   Yay, whew……we made it.. and in the midst of all of the holiday rush and the busyness I had to admit to myself that I was addicted to Creating and Decorating. Yes My Name is Michele and I’m a Designaholic!!! This realization came when I  somehow volunteered my time to paint eighteen panels of scenery for the Sand Lake Center for the Arts Theater,  “The Secret Garden” play.  I must say that although I was feeling a bit pressed for time when the panels that were suppose to arrive the beginning of November, came December 2nd but, we quickly settled into a routine (far from a schedule) my two partners in this project Betsy, Rae and I. All at once we were just rolling them out! I must say most of the time (although chaotic in my household,)  it was absolutely wonderful, and  it was very fulfilling .

A different time long ago,  we were “busy” with daily living needs. Cooking and cleaning took time, as in serious time. We really appreciated the product of our labor. This year my girls Giovanna

The 1st honey bunny

The 1st honey bunny

and Rosaria

The 2nd honey bunny

The 2nd honey bunny

realized,  that the baking our family (Aunt Carol, Mother Theresa aka “Grandmother”, cousin Stefanie and our newest addition Lydia)

Mother Theresa and Lydia

Mother Theresa and Lydia

do each year, taking the better part of a day, would  give them a  such a sense pride and fulfillment because of the effort it took. Try getting that feeling from the cookies purchased at the grocery store. How many of us can say we feel fulfilled by running errands, answering emails or sitting  alone searching the internet for something to purchase for a christmas gift ?

Sometimes I wonder, this lovely life, with a husband, and two teenage girls and a great family how could I ever forget whats important?????

Our home with the Conti's and Mother Theresa

I have a feeling this is going to be Delicious!!

So through it all, I seemed to have maintained some sort of clarity. I know, I know,  although I want to sometimes use duck tape on my children, disown my husband, pretend I have lost Mother Theresa at the Feast of San Gennaro and escape to Margaritaville with a large glass,  I  truly love my life, my work and my wonderful family. Hope you all enjoyed the holidays as much as I did!!!!

As Always, stay tuned for more adventures!!!!

XOXO

M

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Autumn, a season of timeless elegance, let mother natures seduce you with her charm. The month of October, crisp morning air and colors so alive with change, familiar surroundings don a rustic palate of jewel tones that dazzle you with their beauty. It’s time for long walks and late night talks with our children by the fire. This is truly my favorite season, here is a quote from Anne Mary Lawler:

The fields are harvested and bare,

and Winter whistles through the square.

October dresses in Flame and gold

Like a woman afraid of growing old.

Here, in my home are some signs of the season I’d like to share..

Our front door is always open welcoming our family and friends.  Many people celebrate the autumn season by decorating their front porch. Pumpkins, cornstalks, pilgrims and other traditional autumn décor start making their appearance, welcoming guests into the home and delighting those who pass by.

Inside my humble abode I was undecided this year whether I wanted to paint pumpkins go au naturel or spray paint them in metallic silvers and golds. I decided to stay true to the harvest season and use the different varieties and colors that nature offered. Here are two different groupings:

Love the Cinderella pumpkin in the urn!! The orange gourds are surprisingly versatile decorative items, especially when  displayed in groups. Before you put away the urns and pots that held your summer  flowers on the front porch, use them as a base for your larger pumpkins,  and add elegance to your display.

Just loving the pumpkins and mum, the lovely yellows and reds together are great, but I’m leaning more towards the horse and urn above rather than the grouping of various pumpkins below. Which arrangement would you use?? Post your comments for me, I’d love to hear from you!

                                                                                                                     Although this grouping of pumpkins in sizes and colors is appealing!! Above our entry, I used some fall garland and floral arrangements, gourds and a beautiful blue Hubbard squash (that will be eaten after the holiday!!), this array of color will great me in the morning as I descend from my bedroom to discover yet another glorious fall day!

Let us then, be up and doing

with a heart for any fate;

Still achieving, still pursuing,

learn to labor and to wait..

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Inspiration!! This was written more than a hundred years ago, this wisdom is as relevant today as when it was penned, Longfellow’s advice if you’ll receive it, is an emotional and spiritual boost  “let us then be up and doing” he is telling celebrate each day!

 You definitely know what season it is when you walk into my dining room, I think decorating for the season is far from a trend — it’s tradition.

It’s something that people have been doing for years, and they are going to keep doing it because they want to feel the seasons and they enjoy celebrating the holidays using seasonal items for fall, from several pumpkin variations to represent harvest, to seasonally colored throws, pillows and mantle pieces,  — it’s all about the color. Colors are identified for the seasons. In the fall you start to see more blacks, browns, reds, oranges and onyx. And decorating doesn’t have to be costly or time-consuming, you want to accessorize for the season and then build it up — it can become a layered process. You can easily and effortlessly update your home without breaking the bank,  get a new throw, add a couple of pillows, and then start adding your holiday decorations as they come.

Some welcoming front doors and holiday arrangements that I wanted to share with you:

I’ll end with this photo of my entry, I really like the urn, I think… hope this was a fun-filled fall adventure!!!

Happy Holidays!! Stay tuned…..

XOXO

M

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Even if you don’t know the name, chances are you’ll have at some point seen de Gournay’s fabulous wallpapers. Perhaps it was a striking backdrop in some glossy fashion shoot, in the luxury penthouses of some of the worlds most high-end hotels.

Since it’s founding back in 1986, De Gournay’s exquisite wallpapers have been hand painted in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. The company specializes in creating wallpapers inspired by 18th century Chinoiserie, all adhering to traditional methods. Literally meaning ‘Chinese-esque’, the style was popular in Europe and was a true fusion of East and West: designers would create their own interpretations of Chinese compositions, and stately homes, palaces and castles across Europe would invariably have at least one room entirely decked out with Chinese mirrors, lacquer furniture, and, of course, wallpaper.

 

Recently someone asked if I could identify the wallpaper in these Miles Redd designed rooms which I posted here on the blog …of course I said it’s de Gournay , one of my favorites!  This exquisite hand painted wall covering costs around $650 and up per panel, is truly a luxury. . Here are a few other example of genuine de Gournay goodness:

The hand painted papers of de Gournay stand at the pinnacle of interior design.

Although an investment, a room done in de Gournay certainly does not need artwork or much embellishment.

 

 

Painted Panels
The London-based firm De Gournay specializes in 18th- and 19th-century chinoiserie and neoclassical French designs. The Papiers Peints Panoramiques are particularly remarkable. These are made of block-printed sheets with panoramic landscapes and historical and mythical scenes meant to re-create the spectacle in a wraparound fashion. Some designs are more than 200 years old. Prices vary widely. $ By appointment only. At 143 W. 29th St., New York; 212-564-9750; www.degournay.com.

How decadent! If money were no object, I would love to swathe my dining room in a beautiful Chinoiserie de Gournay design. Chinoiserie designs are so timeless to me and depending on what you pair them with they can look so fresh and modern. They’re rather versatile and truly classic.

Here is another Miles Redd, this rich chocolate is exquisite!!!

To quote Martyn Lawrence Bullard, I have to say that de Gournay’s line of hand-painted wallpapers is absolutely “delicious”.

Maria Christofilis, founder and creative director of the Anthousa collection, loved her custom-made peony and cherry blossom silk panels by de Gournay that they inspired her new  home fragrance, De Gournay Jardinieres and Citrus Trees, and the beautiful fabric swatch became the packaging.

Do you have any favorites?

 

Hope you enjoyed today’s adventure, its always nice to see you here again, stay tuned ….

 

XOXO

 

M

 

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Transitional and modern decor has been so appealing to me because, this decor has the ability to generate a stunning energy that’s all its own. Transitional style can range from influences as varied as country, Asian, Cosmopolitan-formal, industrial and retro. My college Denise Maurer has influenced my attitude toward this style of decorating, this is her mantra, her designs are always clean and crisp, and pulling every look together is one overriding theme: the liberating quality of open airy spaces, allowing fresh style to be on full view.

A large round mirror suspended low like a rising sun, the use of pattern to conjour up a decadent design, grey tones turning fabrics into something sensuous. Without question these rooms are sleek and light filled, the feel is gloriously spacious.

urban country

The tall, strong lines of this Shaker inspired bed take on drama in dark expresso wood and the addition of the canopy rails brings balance to the bed and the room, The mirrored nightstand is a contemporary counterpoint to the Shaker-style bed bridging that transition. Framed by the bed, the swing arm sconces become a focal point in this room.

Cosmopolitan View

Delightfully sophisticated that’s the view,  start to finish. This look speaks to anyone who takes pleasure in being enveloped in a tailored, formal glamour. The geometric mirrors mingling with transitional contemporary  pieces make this space urbane, cosmopolitan, contemporary and exciting. Pairing formal and contemporary pieces is the start to this glamorous look,  mirrors add glitz, the art deco inspired chairs mixing with the neoclassical curvaceous lines in the fireplace layer this room and put it simply, over the top.

This is definitely a different turn in design for me, but one I embrace whole heartedly. I have always immersed myself in eclectic furnishings and design, but I seem to be stream lining my own taste to a more casual but elegant style. Now if I can just find the time to transform my home to where my heart already resides, I will achieve my own goal of a stylishly elegant yet comfortable home.

As always stay tuned for more Adventures in Style Land!!

XOXO

M

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Jenny Komenda

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