Monday, July 18, 2011

Barbara Barry Indochine Collection for Kravet

Fresh out of the Orient, Barbara Barry has released an Asian-inspired collection exclusively for Kravet. The collection is called Indochine, and it is a collection of trimmings, fabrics, carpet, drapery hardware and wallcoverings. The colors, textures and patterns are inspired by her travels through Asia.

Barry's fabrics range from sheers, light linens, and silks to wovens, damasks and embroideries.

"Mine is a search for beauty in all that surrounds us. The fierce green of the Thai rice fields; the Chinese red lacquer doors of the Forbidden City; the dark and mysterious Kyoto alleyways; the subtle colors of Oolong and Darjeeling teas - these are the impressions of Asia I have taken back with me from my travels. I have woven these reflections into a collection, Indochine. A memory of a far away place that feels very at home...in your home and in the homes of your clients. It is my hope that it will INSPIRE designers like you to create beautiful rooms," Barbara Barry.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Franco Senesi Fine Art

While in Positano, I discovered Franco Senesi Fine Art. Franco Senesi Fine Art is composed of a dynamic team dealing in art with people from around the world. I visited the gallery and was truly taken by the level of beauty and sophistication.

The sculptures, paintings and photography are absolutely breathtaking. Some of my favorite artists featured in the gallery include Alessando Verdi, Claudio Malacarne, Giuseppe Tirelli, Marco Grassi, Roberto Di Viccaro and Umberto D'Aniello.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Burano Lacemaking!

After visiting Murano, I traveled to Burano, an island in the Venetian Lagoon. The houses were brightly painted; the colors of the houses follow a specific system originating from the golden age of its development. For example, if someone wanted to paint their home, they would have to send a request to the government. 


I was able to watch an old woman fabricate lace. In the small shop, I viewed hand initialed lace napkins, lace baby clothing and lace garters. 


My favorite lace shop was Emilia Burano, a store and workshop that has been open for three generations. All of the tapestries, bedding, napkins, runners and table linens were beautiful and excellently crafted by artisans of Burano. 

Monday, July 4, 2011

Murano Glass Lighting

I recently traveled all throughout Italy with my fiancé, Jonathan. We flew into Venice, and the second day of travel, we took a water taxi to Murano. Murano is most famous for its glassmaking factories, showrooms and gift shops. 


First, we watched glassblowers create unique, exquisite designs, and then we viewed all the magnificent traditional Venetian glass artworks. Many of the orginial glass pieces were contemporary with vibrant, bright colors.


We went to an exquisite Murano glass lighting showroom, Guarnieri vetreria artistica. I was blown away by the amazing collection of glass chandeliers and lamps. The pieces were "crème de la crème!" 


Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Celerie Kemble's New Black & White Book!

I am so excited!  Acclaimed interior designer Celerie Kemble has launched her new book Black & White (and a bit in between): Timeless Interiors, Dramatic Accents and Stylish Collections. It is available for preorder on Amazon.com, and is scheduled to be released November 1.

I cannot wait to read the book. Black and white decor is classic, modern and elegant, and in Kemble's new book she highlights the black and white work of design stars and peers, showcasing more than 100 unique and timeless spaces.

The book has more than 350 photographs, includes inspirational tips and features images of gorgeous black and white interiors. Black and white - a limited but fabulous palette. Preorder your book now!



Patchwork Rugs

I am in love with patchwork rugs! Patchwork rugs are a big trend now, and I predict that this edgy look will not go out of style for a long time - good investment!

I am moving to New York City in July, and I have been researching patchwork rugs to fit in my new Manhattan apartment. I am looking to customize a patchwork rug or runner based on the dimensions of the floorplan. I will pick a colorway that will work well with my overall design.

Overdyed patchwork rugs are current and fabulous. Cowhide patchwork rugs are also a fabulous find. I have attached some patchwork rugs:








I recently discovered ShineRugs on Etsy! They have amazing patchwork rugs. Check out their site:

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

A Citrus Summer!

This summer is bananas! Celebrate the summer by adding bright sunny hues to your home. Surround yourself with vibrant happy colors. Bright yellow, lime green, bursting orange and grapefruit pink make a room light up and feel fresh.

Citrus colors such as sunshine yellow and radiant orange are hot. The citrus color scheme works well in any design style. Painterly palettes and juicy colors oh my!