Dark Mood X 7

There's an elegance and sophistication associated with the color black.  We recognize its dramatic effects on fashion, interiors and exteriors alike, home accessories and even in gift wrapping.  Black lends a dramatic, classic look to almost anything.  Art, knick-knacks, books and botanicals stand out against its rich depth, giving any space a contrasting, edgy feel.  Even simple recipes can appear more interesting when served on a dark plate.  I think I need to find an area in our house where black would feel at home.

Take a look at a few of my favorite 'noir' looks:  

Images:

1./2./3./4./5./6./7.

A Gilded Leaf Inspired Table Setting

We're hosting Thanksgiving this year and I couldn't be more excited.  Firstly, because it happens to be my favorite holiday and, secondly, because of my love for a well dressed table.  This year, gold tipped leaves inspired a table setting that turned out both earthy and sophisticated.  Vintage Russel Wright dishes, a colorful runner, berry filled twigs, wood and brass create a look and a feel that complement our home's mid-century design well.  Take a look and find out below how to quickly gild leaves for the upcoming holidays.

Himalayan pink rock salt decorates each setting and is also a take home gift for our guests.

Clusters of berries tied to the gilded leaves serve as mini botanical arrangements that can become hanging ornaments for our guests.

Gold Tipped Leaves

Supplies:

Magnolia leaves (they're thick and won't crack as the paint dries), gold paint and twine.

Instructions:

Tie twine to the leaf stem. Dip the tip directly into the paint. Hang and let dry for 1 to 2 days.

Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving.                                                                                                                                 

Scenes From New York City

We just returned from the East coast where we visited family and friends in both New York and New Jersey.  The timing for this trip was perfect.  The air was chilly but not frigid, the trees were still holding on to their Fall colors and signs of the coming holidays were all around us in a typically flamboyant NYC style.  Being back home feels really good and realizing that we got to spend precious time with people we love feels even better.  Here are a few images from this past weekend:

 

Kitchen Update: Dining Table And Stools In Da House!

Great news!!  Our dining table and stools have arrived safely from Australia and they're even more beautiful  than I had anticipated.  The table base is just the right size for our dining area and it provides a bit of raw elegance to the space, while the stools pull the entire space together by virtue of their black leather seats and brass finish.  Once I return from a week-long trip to the East coast, I'll be in full dining chairs scouting form.  My guess is that I will need some serious 'blog reader' input with THAT decision.  In the mean time take a look at these beauties:

Room Inspiration: A Modern Mid-Century Living Room

I built this room inspiration around a leather sofa owned by my clients. Its mid-century inspired design is a perfect fit for the Eichler home they live in and their passion for that era's style.  We're working on adding color, texture and period appropriate accents throughout their main living areas.  I'm excited to mix newly found vintage pieces and contemporary ones that will hold up to the demands of a growing family.  Stay posted for project updates.

Room elements:

Sculptural Chaise Lounge Chair,  Mulberry Tripod Floor Lamp, Chimayo Throw, sideboard, Petrie Sofa, Cavett Leather Chair, Safavieh Beltram Rug, and Spindle Side Table.