Raina Kattelson

I love the black matteness (hhm a new word) of them, which in person looks way better then this photo does. In a perfect world they would have had better lines but as I have to keep reminding myself this is going to be a rental not our home. So even more so then when we have designed our own home cost needs to be a consideration. But man oh man it's hard for us. At pretty much every turn we have wanted to go for the more interesting (read more $$$) decision and have had to constantly reign ourselves in while still trying to keep the design something we like.

The main place we had to stop ourselves was with the kitchen counter. I really wanted honed black granite, (actually I would love it in my kitchen as well) It would have been a perfect balance between the white modern cabinets and antique rough sawn wood that we are using for the bar. But alas we went with a gray laminate from Ikea. It's looks fine, even quite nice but not the WOW I was hoping for. Well hey, the Ikea was so...shall we say inexpensive (read dirt cheap) that it could easily be replaced down the road.

Gift Guide - 12 shiny things

2011-12-06T14:44:00.000-05:00

Here it is...ta da my gift guide for the holiday season. So without further ado all things I want to give, get and share with you in the hopes that we all have a happy stylish holiday season.

Shine on...

1. Anthropologie

2. M and Co

3. Canoe

4. Mothology

5. Confetti Systems

6. Canoe

7. Claire Vivier

8. Velocity

9. CrewCuts

10. Michelle Varian

11. Sven

12. Nonchalant Mom

White + Black

2011-12-05T14:01:00.001-05:00

Increasingly I find myself drawn to black and white spaces. Perhaps it's visual overload from so many other places. This space in the December issue of Elle Decoration UK seems like perfection to my eyes right now. Just enough mod and just the right dose of rustic to warm it up and make it feel like home.

Lately the Bubble chair from Eero Aanio seems to be popping up everywhere and I'm loving it!

The mixed metallic trio from Tom Dixon really pop against all that black.

images Heidi Lerkenfeldt via Elle Decoration

Simon Doonan on Style Icons

2011-11-09T13:29:00.000-05:00

OK, one of my style icons -in every way the freakin more talented then just about anyone in his pinky finger- Simon Doonan, spoke last night at F.I.T so of course I zipped over to hear him speak style. I used to live around the corner from Barneys when it was in Chelsea on 7th. ave and my constant ritual was staring agog at his windows. Humor, style, creative pizazz- they had em all.

Check out the BAG!

So since he can say just about anything better then I can here are a few choice quotes.....

on women, feminism and beauty-

"If you are looking to high fashion for role models you are barking up the wrong tree. Fashion is a sick world"

"backstage at a fashion show no one has tit's, where as everywhere else woman have tit's"

"sex and food are in the real world but are never allowed in high fashion"

" what happened to feminism. feminism these days means hairy legs and Birkenstock's- woman couldn't be more fake now-well, women went full circle....congratulations!"

on monarchs and political wives-

"you want your public servants to be frumpy, it's we the public who should be exciting"

"monarch's can never look chic-chic is unfriendly"

on trends-

"trends are like the L.A Basin- they go in the basin and they don't come out"

on fashion-

"Heidi Klum has it all wrong- in fashion you are not either in or out- you can hang on for years"

"fashion is all about self expression, move the goal post!"

A thrilled audience member after Doonan mentioned her cool outfit from the dais.

Look quick and you can spot Simon in this music video from times past.

Photographer Sy Kattelson

2011-11-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

Ok, forgive the shameless plug for my dad, Sy Kattelson but his work is quite amazing as I think you will agree.

I have shown some of his fashion work here before but not his art photography. Since he is currently included in a fantastic show at the Jewish Museum in NYC , The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League, 1936-1951, I thought now would be the perfect time.

The Photo League was a group of NY photographers that included Aaron Sisskand, Ruth Orkin, Weegee, Leon Levinstein, Bernice Abbott, Paul Strand, Helen Levitt, Lissette Model... the list goes on. They used their camera's to focus on such social issues as race, class and poverty while creating extraordinarily beautiful images. It's particularly fitting that the show is happening now as we wrestle with many of the same issues.

The League comprised of a school, darkroom, gallery and salon where photography was discussed as an art form in addition to being a means for social change. It's hard to imagine but at that point in time photography was not thought of as art- something the League helped to change.

The group disbanded in 1951 after being named by the U.S attorney general as a Communist organization after having valiantly tried to fight being blacklisted. The attorney general couldn't understand why people would want to photograph the average person if it wasn't for subversive reasons, again hard to believe in this day and age when most everyone carries some form of camera with them everywhere.

There are several good books about the League here.

images Sy Kattelson

Renovation: Looking like a home

2011-11-03T14:15:00.000-04:00

Construction projects seem to drag on forever with seemingly nothing being done, while in reality so many important things are in fact being accomplished- wiring, plumbing, insulation, sheetrock, trim etc. True our renovation project dragged on longer (way, way longer) then we had planned due to various crazy contractor and weather problems. Well now we are at the point when each step is exciting and feels like yes!! it might be a livable house quite soon.

The floors have been sanded and urethaned. Theres some places where the flooring was patched that is a shade or 2 different then the original floor, but they will age and darken (at least that's what the floor guy promised-fingers crossed). The hint of blue tape is not a new design element but where the kitchen island will be after this weekend.

Usually when I am choosing paint colors I get about a gazillion different samples and put them all up on the wall, debate the hell out of them and then paint and yes, sometimes repaint. This time I decided to jump right in and take a chance- not sure why. The painter started upstairs in the hall with Mountainscape, which proved to be not the pale gray I had hoped but more of a very cold white. So back to the hardware store for Pearl River.... Ta da the perfect shade of gray- just enough to feel light and open but with enough color to stand up to the Sea to Shining Sea blue wall.
p.s when you are trying to find these fab colors-they are all Benjamin Moore.

It's hard to now imagine that fairly recently this space looked like this.....charming isn't it!

Weirdly funny but I only realized I had chosen a similar blue to the original living room color when I went to post this before pic- well let's just call it a homage to the previous owners, jeesh it looks like the exact same color!

New York Halloween Parade

2011-10-31T15:06:00.002-04:00

Last weekend we went to the nearby Rokeby estate to see a preview of the NYC Halloween and parade. The organizers of the parade live and work at Rokeby, where the puppets are built and stored. The whole event has an other wordly, magical quality that is quite special and one of the things that makes living in the Hudson Valley so amazing.

The giant peacock eyeball getting it's finishing touches

The floating eyeballs

Puppets from years past in the barn

The full effect with with music.....

Corning Glass Museum

2011-10-20T08:00:00.002-04:00

Below a few images from our visit to the Corning Glass Museum this past month. I've wanted to visit the museum for years but, stiil never imagined quite how beautiful and extensive the collection is. We spent 2 days there and left wishing we had more time.

House Update-somethings goin on round here...

2011-10-17T08:00:00.001-04:00

This is how my weekend started out...

And although it ended with not the finished kitchen we had planned, we are definitely starting to see an end to the chaos and a home starting to form.

Our electrician disappeared several months ago nowhere to be found (along with carpenter #1)

so my husband and cousin spent 2 weekends trying to get all the lights and outlets working- not an easy task since the electrician's work left many weird dead ends and missing wires.

But ta da- we now have a fully functioning lit house. As night fell and I stood outside looking in at my husband working in the lit kitchen all the many months of aggravation and delays seemed worth it.

The other big piece we worked on was getting the yard in some sort of shape, so in between putting cabinets together we burned all of the left over construction wood along with the brush from the fallen limbs we had thanks to Irene.

Then bright and early Monday morning the excavator showed up to finish filling in the old well with left over concrete block we had and graded the lawn.

So looks like next weekend's plans will be planting the hedge and grass seed-ahh country life doesn't get much better then this- does it?

Brizo & fashion week- In which we announce the winner.....

2011-10-13T08:00:00.008-04:00

Part 2, in case you missed part 1

So after a whirlwind trip around Soho and a cocktail infused design session followed by a late night at Fashion Night Out, we hunkered down to create our mood board. We had the necessary reality design challenge breakdown thanks to Brandon (we love you anyway sweetie).

Not sure if Julieann is happy or losing it here, although she was our calm in the storm.

Finishing our board with minutes to spare we were whisked off yet again by limo (a girl could get used to this) to Jason Wu's spring 2012 show.

Where we mingled with Hamish Bowles European Editor at Large for Vogue,

Kim Hastreiter founder of Paper Magazine

Scott Schuman aka The Sartorialist,

Stunning color!

So cocktails in hand our fearless judges Judd Lord Designer extraordinaire from Brizo, Marilyn Seright Brizo and Brendan Cannon- Stylist to the stars, review the teams boards Michelle Adam's of Lonny Magazine,

So after I Dream Of Jeanie (aka Emily) presented out board we waited nervously , sure that we had lost.

But much to our surprise WE WON!- apparently the judges loved our Warhol and Basquiat references. Brendan even pulled out his Warhol wallet to show us.

Is this a happy guy or what!

Images via Kerrie Kelly, Jayme Thornton,

House Beautiful- The Last Words

2011-10-11T16:11:00.000-04:00

Hey, House Beautiful thanks for the mention...........

Hearst Magazine-Cinema Style

2011-10-11T14:16:00.000-04:00

Last week I was invited to preview Hearst Magazine's show house, Designer Visions, Cinema Style at 1212 Fifth Avenue. Since movie's and design are my favorite subjects I knew I was in for something good and was not disappointed. Of course it was a perfect match that Heather Moore, of Jed Johnson designed an apartment for Andy Warhol's muse Edie Sedgwick since Jed Johnson was Warhol's long time love. Heather used the movie Factory Girl starring Sienna Miller as her jumping off point but made her apartment for a present day Edie- married and with a daughter for House Beautiful. The apartment was filed with original art and pics of Edie at her heyday.

A swing for 'little Edie".

Here's a bit of rare footage of Edie

I love that Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller of Carrier Company used the offbeat film Igby Goes Down to create a chic, classically inspired apartment with quirky details for Town and Country that would be perfect for Igby's mother played by Susan Sarandon. If you haven't seen Igby you are missing a really funny movie with a fab cast, which features in addition to Sarandon, Kieran Culkin, Amanda Peet, Clair Danes and Jeff Goldblum.

Check out the Vintage Eames Chair from ABC Home.

Don't you love the kitchen light!

Thomas O'Brien of Aero Studios used muted colors and elegant furnishings to create a mood inspired by the film Someone To Watch Over Me starring Mimi Rogers for Veranda Magazine.

I love how the Wall fabric by Katie Leede and Company gives the room movement and coziness at the same time.

I can't tell you how many people kept wandering into this great shower by S. Russell Groves.

Images: Thomas Loof-House Beautiful, Francesco Lagnese-Town and Country, Max Kim-Bee, Veranda

Afternoon Quickie- fashion inspiration

2011-10-06T14:00:00.001-04:00

I stopped by the Daphne Guinness show at F.I.T yesterday- don't miss it!

A few pieces I have my eye on for fall........

I think I could live in Prada forever and be perfectly happy.

Images via Unknown,Barney's, Saks, Lanvin, Prada, Westfield Stratford

Brizo and fashion week

2011-10-05T11:32:00.000-04:00

Hi. I'm Chloe.

I live in Soho, and here's why:

My mother Sibelle (a performance artist in the 60's who made her claim to fame by speaking backwards while cuddling a picture of JFK and Jesus) luckily inhabited one of the 'ok go ahead and live there' art studios/loft spaces in Soho in the 60's, now left to yours truly.

She was best friends with Basquiat, frenemies with Warhol and got photographed not once but twice by Diane Arbus. She recently ran off with her 'cab-driver-turned-Chompsky-memoirists' boyfriend to Indianapolis to experience how 'Real Americans' live.

So now, this place is mine. I'm 30, an aspiring fashion designer and jazz singer. I pretend to love politics, drink a lot of manhatans and Rachmaninoff and Joni Mitchell are always on heavy rotation on my vintage record player.

I'm friends with Chloe Sevigny and Maggie Gyllenhal, love the nostalgia of garbage pail kids and travel obsessively with my boyfriends to Greece and Istanbul.

I'm romantic without being cheesy, indie without being pretentious and pretty without knowing it. I wear Jason Wu and Lauren Moffatt. And netflix tells me that my favorite movies are 'Taxi Driver' and 'Marie Antoinette'.

I want a bathroom that makes me happy, yet calm. A bathroom that makes me think about my mom, how she lived here, who she lived with and the life that she lived.

And I want a bathroom that makes everyone who comes in gasp while thinking, 'My god, New York is alive and this chick is the most interesting person in the city'. And then 'dear lord, look at that amazing faucet'.

But, you know, in an effortless way

So begins the story of 4 designers, some very cool faucets and Jason Wu.

I was recently invited to be part of Fashion Week and learn about faucets-how could I resist??

The trip started when the big black limo showed up at my abode and whisked me away, thus embarking an incredibly jam packed 3 days of fun, fashion and faucets- the big 3!

After a day of seeing some new exciting, super secret faucet designs... stay tuned! and brainstorming new faucet ideas with the Brizo designers we were divided into teams and each team given a bathroom floor plan and a NYC neighborhood to be inspired by. We needed to create a mood board complete with swatches and an imaginary client by the next morning-easy -right? No real client, no budget, no constrictions we only had to use Brizo faucets- that part was easy.
Then Team Vuelo as we were known were whisked away yet again by limo.

Our fabulous team, members Brandon, Dcoopsd, Emily, Style By Emily Henderson, and Julieann, Create Girl. and I wandered the neighborhood, snapped pictures and dreamed up our client. I have to say we had a bit of a leg up since as a child and later on my own I lived in Soho in it's earliest days as an artist enclave, though I have to give full credit for the delicious writing above to Emily.
Over cocktails at a sidewalk cafe we brainstormed- you know, in an effortless way....

So here's what we came up with.....our jumping off point was the ceiling, we decided that since Chloe's mom hung with the downtown art crowd that her friend Jean Michael Basquiet painted the ceiling of the bathroom with one of his signature graffiti paintings. From there we pulled colors and objects that would work around it. Chloe's mom left her lot's of fabulous objects including a mirrored screen which we used behind the bathtub and ran the Vesi faucet through. She also left her an old trunk which we turned into the sink vanity. Lately I have been lusting for one of Lindsey Aldelman's fantastic chandeliers so we added one. It's the perfect piece as it highlights the ceiling with out distracting from it. Throw in a comfy chair and rug in which she can relax and watch movies projected outside on the brick wall across from her bathroom and it all adds up to an amazing dream space.

Stay tuned for part 2 in which we hit Fashion Night Out, attend Jason Wu's show and.....announce the winner!

images via Decorpad, Lindsey Aldeman, Jean Michael Basquiat, Sartorialist, Brizo, Ebay, This Is Glamorous, Loom Rugs, From Old Books, Brizo, Erin Ever After, Brown Eyed Belle Julie, ABC Home,

Designer spotlight- Palmer Earley of Four Hands

2011-10-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

I recently had the great pleasure of meeting product designer Palmer Earley from Four Hands.

These guys design some of my favorite products sold at ABC Home, Anthroplogie and Nieman Marcus- including high on my design to dye for (sorry folks) list- overdyed rugs.

While I was at the Las Vegas Market Palmer took me on a personal tour of the Four Hands showroom and told me a bit about his background and work.

What first inspired you to be a product designer?

Boring cabinet hardware! It sounds funny, but it's true. When I first got started I was designing cabinet knobs and pulls. A friend and I were traveling around central Mexico where we met some amazing metal smiths. By the time we got back to Austin we had targeted a hole in the market place and developed what became our first line.

Where did you get your training?

Hanging out with people more talented than me. When I first started designing products I was working in an antique shop surrounded by very talented interior designers. You learn quick what’s working and what’s not.

You mentioned that you had been a set designer- how did you get from there to here?

It was more about the location than the profession. I was living in LA and kept coming across these experiences that were gently pushing me out the door. I think LA is like that for most people, it’s such a great place to live, but you know when it’s time to go.

What does a typical day look like for you?

If I had typical days I would change my profession. Every day is so different from the next. One day you think you’ve created the most beautiful object in the world and the next day your factory is on fire. It sounds absurd but it’s happened!

What inspires your work?

I travel so much I’m constantly being introduced to new ideas and designs. It’s very addictive, not so much the travel but the excitement of what’s around the corner. It’s those images, colors and experiences that work their way into what I do.

What are some of your favorite design resources?

As far as shelter mags go, I love Elle Décor and Vogue Living. I check out numerous blogs daily, including yours! I also look at a lot of music and fashion magazines. It’s easy to translate runway fashion to home furnishings fashion.

I would love to see a few pieces and have you discuss your thought process behind the design.

This “bistro” light is one of my favorites. The body is cast from a French original café light and we worked it into our counter-balanced design. It’s very romantic design but strong enough to work anywhere.

The Bilardo was our most ambitious design. We really wanted to capture the early Industrial movement without coming across as too “factory like”. The design had to be something that would incorporate symbols of hard work: the pulley wheels, the up down movement of the “piston”, plus combining the mixture of horizontal and vertical scaffolding. The oil rubbed bronze finish is unique to Architects & Heroes lighting and we felt the perfect finish for this design. It allowed this “heavy machine” of a light to embrace the openness of the home and be welcoming in its overall warmth.

If you weren't a product designer you would be?

Figuring out how to be a product designer.

I assume you travel a lot for work (and pleasure) where have your travels taken you.

I travel all the time, both domestically and international. We’re either going to see a factory we work with, looking for a factory nobody’s ever worked, attending a lighting trade show or exhibiting at one of the furniture markets. It’s constant travel, tons of hard work but really, really fun!

What are your favorite "secret" haunts?

When in Austin you have to check out the Four Hands Warehouse Sales, they have them maybe 4 times a year and they are literally filled with one of a kinds from around the world! My other favorite place is the Wyldwood Market which is just West of Bastrop, TX on HWY 71, that place always has the most incredible finds!

Collaborations-Paul Loebach and West Elm

2011-09-30T14:00:00.000-04:00

The brilliant design team at West Elm led by Vanessa Holden has hooked up with designer extraordinaire Paul Loebach. Once again the West Elm folks get the collaboration with emerging designers thing spot on.

A marvellous mix of offbeat legs.

The whole traditional leg with modern top is to die for.

For more of Paul's work sans West Elm.......

Don't you love the tabletop pieces melting into the surfaces!

A new twist on a familiar feeling chair.

Benjamin Moore- Color Stories

2011-09-30T10:04:00.000-04:00

Today Benjamin Moore launches Color Stories, paint formulated with between 5-7 pigments instead of the 3 used in most standard paints. It adds a deeper richer dimension to the colors, and brings Ben Moore paints closer to the quality of Donald Kaufman and Fine Paints of Europe while making it more affordable and readily available.

Being a the paint-oholic that I am, I might have to rethink a few of the colors I just (eek) purchased for the renovation and change to one from here-

What's New What's Next

2011-09-20T08:00:00.004-04:00

If you are New York City today come stop by The New York Design Center for What's New What's Next where I'll be a blog ambassador. I'll be at the Tucker Robbins showroom for Frank Roop's book signing 3:45-5:45. Here's a lineup of all the fabulous events.

Images via NYDC, Eric Roth, Tucker Robbins

Sheetrock, trim and ceilings

2011-09-19T09:35:00.000-04:00

We've got Sheetrock, window trim and primer- it's starting to feel like the home stretch.

The house survived Irene with only a few fallen limbs that thankfully missed the house, and the basement stayed dry.

The beams primed with white paint- makes the whole place feel bigger and brighter.

Kitchen cabinets going in soon!!

The pile of wood will be floors (fingers crossed) next week.

The side entry- haven't decided if we should put stone down or wood.

Master bedroom with trim almost done.

Loving this Frank Roop designed kitchen with the mix of birch and white. We aren't putting in wall cabinets so I was thinking of keeping the cabinets white and making the island maple.

For a few more scrumptious kitchens go here.

Images via 6. Eric Roth 7. Ikea

Brizo and fashion week

2011-09-08T08:00:00.001-04:00

It's Fashion Week and Fashion's Night Out so I thought would share some delicious pics from Jason Wu. Why Jason you say- besides the fact that he is an amaze-balls designer, well.....

thanks to the folks at Brizo, moi and 18 other finger on the pulse bloggers from all sorts of far flung places are convening to discuss the 2 f's- faucets and fashion!!!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed on snagging some groovy Missoni for Target loot at the pop up shop!!! The collection looks amazing and the space is designed by the uber design guy David Stark.

Yea- it's going to be a rough week!

Out and About

2011-09-07T08:00:00.008-04:00

I've been on the road the last few weeks and heading out today for more adventures.

here are some of the things i've seen..........

An eye??

Sea creature??

Rice noodles? I'll share more soon, meanwhile keep guessing.

A waterfront shoot with Eric Piasecki.

and Thom Filicia.

Niagara

Toronto by sunset.

and back to.....

a bit of Irene.

and a beautiful ending to the storm.

Book signing with Holly Becker of decor8 for her new book Decorate.

Las Vegas Market-mixing materials

2011-08-26T08:00:00.003-04:00

Material mixes were another look I fell hard for at Las Vegas Market. Safavieh's leather and wood chair is a fantastic example of this look. Artfully combining a Scandinavian influenced chair with woven leather seat.

Also from Safavieh new twists on the traditional camp chair in canvas and leather.

Brownstone mixed wood with brass rods in both dining tables and chairs in these Mid Century style pieces.

Brownstone again- with a rough sawn reclaimed wood top with sleek modern chrome legs.

Probably the most unexpected line I saw was the Mirage collection from Lexington furniture. Normally I would walk right by this showroom as I have thought of it as to traditional for my tastes. This time something caught my eye and I walked in to be happily surprised.

fab chrome and mahogony bookcase.

Las Vegas Market- color mixes

2011-08-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

A flash of neon from Four Hands Home display.

At Studio A recycled metal in bright colors and patterns was mixed to create a patchwork effect on these mirrors and desks.

Fabulous felted rugs and poufs at Liora Manne.

A rainbow of trunks from Go Home.

Recycled silk ottoman from Arteriors.

Sculptural woven orange chair from Philips Collection.

Lucite chairs from Haziza.

Clearly I am on a pouf theme, but how can I skip these colorful wire pieces.

Las Vegas Market- Patchwork

2011-08-22T10:32:00.000-04:00

Perhaps one of my favorite trends at Las Vegas Market was seeing patchwork used in various ways. It was seen in not only the more traditional patched fabric, on chairs seats and poufs-

Faded denim pouf from Go Home Ltd.

But also using reclaimed wood still while still retaining the original colors of it's previous use and then pieced together into table tops and cabinets. The table below from Four Hands Home beautifully combined teak tops with steel legs.

Here the effect is shown using reclaimed rough sawn boards and steel in this piece from the Bina collection.

Or in this dovetailed table top from the Philips Collection.

The over dyed rug trend continues, here combining with the patch-working of various different rug patterns cut and sewn together to form one large rug in various shades of red, orange and purple.

Once again Four Hands Home did an exceptional job with this trend.

Love this all black melange.

This faded gray version is from Dynamic Rugs.

3 trends mixed together in this Union Jack, over dyed and patch-worked rug.

Las Vegas Market

2011-08-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

Just about the best escalators I have ever seen at the Las Vegas Market.

The Frank Gehry designed Cleveland Clinic for Brain Health.

DIFFA's "Up On The Roof" cocktail party.

Million Dollar Decorators, Nathan Turner and Jeffrey Alan Marks at the Editor At Large Ahead of the Curve webcast.

Designer Anthony Baratta of Diamond and Baratta.

Emily, Julia, Crystal, Cassandra and Nicole.

Las Vegas Market trends part 1

2011-08-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Last week I took a quick trip to Vegas to check out the Las Vegas Market and meet up with Anthony Baratta, Nathan Turner and Jeffrey Allen Marks to discuss design trends at the show.

I spent several days perusing the market and a quick bit of exploring Vegas with fellow bloggers including Emily Anderson, Marisa Marcantonio, Cassandra LaValle, and Elise Marshall Jones. Topping off the event filled week was none other then President Bill Clinton, who gave a fascinating speech.

Here's a quick peek at some of the design trends Anthony, Nathan and Jeffrey saw.

Afternoon Quicky-Flea finds

2011-08-04T13:02:00.000-04:00

A couple of quick flea finds from our recent trip.

A few more signs to add to the ever growing collection.

Vintage french letters and receipts plus a caliper.

Iron springs

Photographer Eric Piasecki

2011-08-02T08:00:00.002-04:00

I've recently been lucky to be working with photographer Eric Piasecki on a new book. For those of you not familiar with his work he shoots for a stellar list of clients such as Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Martha Stewart this list goes on. Not only is his work to die for but he is a dream to work with. Feast your eyes on these to die for images and spaces.

Can't quite divulge the project we've been working on yet, but stay tuned!

Las Vegas Market

2011-08-02T08:00:00.001-04:00

Here's where you will find me this week....

To join the conversation on line register here and join us on twitter, if you aren't already following me on twitter please do and follow Editor At Large as well using the hash tag #AOTC. I'll be updating to my Facebook page- A Stylist's Life as well so check in there.
There will be loads of fun news and events on top of the already fabulous Ahead of the Curve conversation I will be hearing President Bill Clinton's keynote, DIFFA's Up On The Roof cocktail party and sharing in the fun will be some of my favorite blogger's: Emily from Goody With Style, Cassandra of Coco + Kelly, Carmen of Time 2 Design and Manvi from Mochanti.

Little Owl and Swarm

2011-07-28T11:45:00.000-04:00

Today I am loving......... Altered Perspectives.

Little Owl and Leslie Oschmann have joined together to create the Altered Perspectives Series. Vintage canvas oil paintings layered on transferware, resulting in stunning one of a kind pieces.

Leslie Oschmann for Swarm chairs.

As if that was enough gorgeousness- how about these child's chairs layered with vintage oil paintings. Both are available through the artist's sights as well as Anthropologie.

Olsen Kundig Architects

2011-07-27T13:47:00.000-04:00

After seeing an outdoor shower by Olsen Kundig Architects on Remodelista the other day I went and checked out their work. I fell head over heels for the simple, rustic- modern very cool cabins they have in their portfolio.

The steel panel slides across a window wall to secure the cabin when not in use.

A great steel wood storage area.

Notice the slanted roof allowing light to stream in from above.

I dream of large glass doors that open onto a patio just like these!

And this concrete double sided fireplace is a perfect touch.

Check out this huge crank operated glass wall!

!!!!!!!

Using hydraulic winches the decks pull up to close up the space when the owner is away.

images Benjamin Benschneider, Tim Bies, Peter Yates

Rue Magazine-issue 6

2011-07-26T15:03:00.000-04:00

Some of my new Rue magazine faves..........

And why should you- with a look like this!

House Renovation

2011-07-21T23:28:00.000-04:00

Hmmm what is this? Art, an aerial photo, a snow covered path?

No folks much better then that it's Ta Da.............the newly insulated walls in our renovation project. I know you are saying what renovation project- as it's been so long since there have been any updates. But now the fun should finally begin, unless the heat (or something else) stops them the walls will be sheet rocked this week and then it's finally tile, cabinets, lighting all the juicy, good stuff we love.

Our new sunny kitchen- ok squint and imagine.

Master Bedroom

Road trip-architectural details

2011-07-21T12:43:00.000-04:00

We like nothing better then to hop in the car for a road trip, so with the kids in camp we decided to head to the Catskills for a brief respite. We stopped in Andes for a bit of antiquing, gallery hopping and lunch and then spent the night in Cooperstown.

Along the way we stopped whenever something caught our eye and enjoyed the beautiful views.

If you head to Andes be sure to stop in Kabinett & Kammer Sean has an amazing eye for unusual antiques ( also be sure to check out his new store in NYC) Another great stop is Tay Tea and Home - delicious tea to enjoy in the salon or take home along with a well curated selection of gifts for the home.

The area is rich in beautiful houses (some in better shape then others) but still full of amazing architectural details.

Look past the parts that are falling down and notice the curved glass and keyhole windows.

An interesting fan shape detail.

I love this stone detailing.

Yes, it's asphalt but still pretty cool.

Las Vegas

2011-07-12T08:00:00.002-04:00

I thought I was headed to Vegas.....

But the plane took a detour to Venice.....

Funny since we had been thinking of going to Venice this year.

Vegas, Venice, Vegas- where am I??

Definitely Vegas!

I'll leave you with this parting thought.

Photographer Janne Peters

2011-06-21T08:00:00.001-04:00

I recently came across these dreamy light and dark images from German photographer Janne Peters.

Notice the way the mauve in the vase picks up the colors in the stems and hydrengia petals.

Loving the dreamy quality caused by the narrow focal point.

The black and white bowls against the white boards are so clean and graphic.

House Renovation

2011-06-17T08:33:00.000-04:00

Aggh I haven't posted anything on the house renovation in a gazillion years- this New Yorker cartoon just about says it all......

Our contractor is even named Bob - strange!

So here we are way behind schedule after he disappeared for a few months. But now we seem to be back to a fairly steady pace, if only the electrician would show up to finish the wiring we could sheetrock and let the real design fun begin- because i'm having some serious design jonzing here!!

I suppose there is some small comfort in the fact that just about everyone undergoing renovation's seems to have the disappearing contractor problem.

Stay tuned...

Stripes!!

2011-06-12T14:16:00.000-04:00

Holly from Decor 8 is hosting stripe mania this week- a group of bloggers are posting pictures of themselves in stripes and linking on Pinterest.

So first a few of my favorite stripey images..........

2 stripey bloggers for the price of one- My 10 year old daughter Romi blogs at Colored Clovers.

Images via 1/2. Isabel Toledo 3/4. Marimekko 5. Bert Stern 6. Completamente Do Avesso

Davistudio Pottery

2011-06-10T15:39:00.001-04:00

Some images from a recent shoot for Davistudio pottery I did with photographer John Gruen.

We shot Mary Anne's pottery at one of my favorite stores in the Hudson Valley- Sawkille. They not only have stunningly beautiful handmade furniture but the shop space is just about perfect as well- if only I could drag my bed over and move right in....

Sherry Jo Williams who recently opened Culture and Commerce Project in Hudson carries these handblown glasses by Ten Willow Studio along with art and handmade furniture by local artists and designers from Hudson to Brooklyn. The hand forged silver bowl and spoon are by Tivoli artist John Corcran and are availble at Sawkille

The vintage french bill and goose eggs are from another recent addition to the Hudson scene

Red Chair Antiques.

Flea finds

2011-06-02T08:00:00.003-04:00

Perhaps waking up in the dark at 5 am to drive an hour and wander a field full of antiques (and junk) is not every one's idea of of a fun Saturday morning, but.... after a few cups of tea- it's mine.

I debated this ashtray for quite a while, candy dish perhaps- but in the end left it behind. I just couldn't get over the fact that it was an ashtray despite the amazing color and texture.

I fell head over heels for this vase- but it was quite a bit more then I wanted to spend, especially since I saw it after already filling the car. But still I have such a soft spot for pottery of all kinds.

A whole booth blooming with beaded french flowers.

From there I headed to the Rhinebeck Antiques Show, definitely the other end of the spectrum in quality and price.

I saw lot's of over sized glass vases definitely a trend right now, this shaped one was particularly beautiful.

So many textural pottery pieces to tempt me yet more.

I loved the colors and detail in this enamel piece.

Things that I saw that I liked.....sunshine

2011-05-26T08:00:00.001-04:00

After a dreary, rainy few weeks...... a whole lotta orange to brighten the day.

I'm loving the new House Beautiful iPad 500 + paint colors app.

Wishing I was here.....

Check out the orange string on the chair.

Images via Beyond Boston Chic, Flickr, Gingerella, Via Amore, VT Wonen, Mark Rothko, Taxi magazine

Blogfest

2011-05-24T08:00:00.002-04:00

My head is still spinning from last weeks Blogfest 2011! Thanks to the amazing Kravet team we had a whirlwind 3 days. We spent a day at Hearst meeting with Dara Caponigro editor in chief of Veranda, House Beautiful's Newell Turner and Jay Fielden of Town and Country, then had a preview of the Elle Decor Show House and met with Michael Boodro of Elle Decor. We finished the evening with with a cocktail party thrown by Amy Dragoo and Jonathan Legate of Design TV and Joss and Main then late night burgers at the Breslin with William and Susan Brinson of House of Brinson and Michelle Carangi of Holly and Gill.

The second day we met at the Kravet showroom in the D & D building for lunch and a preview of the Lily Pulitzer line, then tea and talk with designer Barbara Barry and New York Spaces editor Jason Kontos. Then we were whisked off to the Mayo studios for a private mini show house and book signing sponsored by Traditional Home and it's editor in chief Ann Maine. There we got to meet with some of the best interior designers working today including Thomas O'Brien, Eric Cohler, Diamond and Baratta, Suzanne Rheinstein, Suzanne Kasler and David Easton. From there we went to the Wolf/ Sub Zero showroom for cocktails.

Wednesday morning we had breakfast at the Conde Nast building with Margaret Russell, editor in chief of Architectural Digest, where she discussed the new direction of the magazine.

Then on to the New York Design Center for a tour and lunch. The Kravet's then welcomed us at the company's workrooms where we got to see the behind the scenes artist's for Kravet, Lee Jofa and Brunschwig and Fils.

The 3 days ended with cocktails at the 1st Dibs showroom and our special guest designer Thom Filicia. A crazy, wonderful few days.

The highlights of the event......
David Easton- besides being an amazing designer- he is crazy, funny.
The Kravet family- not only do they run a great business, but each and every one of them are the nicest people.
The time the editors and designers took out of their busy schedules to spend with us.
So many great bloggers- some I knew and some new friends.

additional images via Ivan Santos/Kravet

Things that I saw that I liked.....a little bit moody

2011-05-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

A few things that inspire me this week-

Always- Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou Doillon

The work of photographer Laura Letinsky - the moody, abandonded, forgotten quality- always inspires me.

Sculptural bits.

I am often drawn to industrial and run down spaces. I've thrown party's in abandoded garage's and barns.

I've dreamed of having an old greenhouse, this picture from Vogue Living- sadly another defunct magazine, captures my imagination.

A perfect combinations of colors.

I'm off to the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in NY and Blogfest 2011...... lot's of new inspiration.

images via 1. Annie Leibovitz 2. 3. Laura Letinsky 4.5.Oberto Gili 6. Prada

Lisa Congdon- A Collection A Day

2011-05-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

I very rarely enter contest's and when I do don't ever seem to win any way- But on a lark and because I am a huge fan of Lisa Congdon, I entered the Martha Stewart- Lisa Congdon collection a day contest...... and WON! We were asked to submit photo's of our collections and Lisa would draw a picture of the winning collections, plus we all received a signed copy of her new book- A Collection A Day- based on her very cool blog A Collection A Day.

I have a number (no pun intended) of collections- many of which I use for work and are displayed around the house- such as my ever growing pottery collection... But I chose my bit's from my signage collection scattered around the house.

Lisa chose this image-

And here is her lovely drawing-

Images John Gruen, Lisa Congdon

Alexander McQueen

2011-05-06T08:00:00.004-04:00

For those of you who regularly read this blog it will be no surprise that I am a huge Alexander McQueen fan, so I can't wait to see the retrospective that just opened at the Metropolitan Museum. Here are a few images from the show to put you in the mood.

Incredible embroidery.

The paint spatter dress from the spring summer collection of 1999

Always the most amazing shoes- wearable maybe not- but incredible none the less.

When his pal Isabella Blow died the amazing Daphne Guinness bought her collection of McQueen clothes, many of which are on display at the Met. Here is a clip of Daphne getting ready for the Met gala in the window of Barney's ......so as a riff on the great Diana Vreeland..... why don't you prepare for a festive night out by dressing in the windows of Barney's!I

And a few more McQueen bits here and here.

Kips Bay Matthew Patrick Smyth

2011-05-04T12:53:00.000-04:00

I'm heading off to the Florian Papp gallery for a book signing for Matthew Patrick Smyth's new book- Living Traditions, but first I wanted to show you Matthew's room at this years Kips Bay Show House. Most designers would shy away from this room as the one stipulation the homeowners had was that the vintage wall mural not be touched. Fortunately Matthew is not one of those and the stunning results show.

Matthew added custom drapes along with an Asian influence to create an elegant peaceful dining room.

If I could take one thing from the room it would be the amazing chandelier by Jacques Jarrige. The delicate metal arms flutter in the breeze while gently lighting the room.

images via The New York Times, Trevor Tondo, Style Beat, Kips Bay Show House

Kips Bay Show House

2011-04-28T10:42:00.000-04:00

Today marks the opening of the Kips Bay showhouse. This year the show includes some of my favorite designers and perhaps my favorite room of all time- I could move right into Brad Ford's"stereo lounge" room and not touch a thing.

Leather chair by Max Gottschalk.

Great wood detail with inset speakers. Paneling from LV Wood Floors.

Turntable coffee table by Phila Audio.

The amazing Chris Lehrecke bookshelves.

An "ode to Jock Whitney" the former owner of the home by Campion Platt.

Celerie Kemble's ladies library.

Love this gold painted mirror ceiling with vintage chandelier.

And then......

If ever there was something to make me want to do laundry- it would be this laundry room by Stephen Fanuka styled by Thom Filicia.

Harry Heissmann's wild teen bedroom

Amanda Nisbett's room with wall fabric from her collection.

Uppper hallway by Rauber and Rauber- I keep waiting for I dream of Jeanie to appear.

The perfect compliment to Brad Ford's stereo lounge is Robert Stilin's mix of modern and vintage.

Art filled hall by Wayne Nathan.

The show opens today and runs through May 26th. The show house is located at 163 east 63rd.

Things that I saw that I liked.....bright

2011-04-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

A few things that inspire me this week......

Images: Eric Meola, Judith Goldman, Prada,Cannes in Cinema , Vogue, J. Crew, Lee Radizwill

New Book-Living Traditions

2011-04-15T14:49:00.001-04:00

Well, here it is!

I spent several months last year traveling around the country along with photographer John Gruen styling the work of designer Matthew Patrick Smyth for his just released book "Living Traditions". Matthew and John made for great traveling companions ( OK, there was the time John and I got lost in Colorado). Matthew's work mixes classic with touches of modern, always maintaining a fresh, lively style. It was such a learning experience to see so much of one designer's work and get to experience the full range of his talents. To experience this for yourself, take a look....

Matthew's work will be featured in

the upcoming Kips Bay Showhouse from April 28- May 26th.

The neo-Federalist style mansion once belonged to John Hay "Jock" Whitney and is located at 163 East 63rd Street-don't miss it!

Images John Gruen

Book sneak peek...

2011-04-14T10:42:00.000-04:00

I can't wait to share more with you soon...... but meanwhile here are some pics from an amazing (if I do say so myself) book project I spent working on last year.

Stay Tuned

images John Gruen

Designer Tom Delavan

2011-04-13T08:40:00.001-04:00

I have been a huge Tom Delavan fan since first seeing his work, and I was thrilled have gotten the chance to work with him on a shoot for Domino. Since leaving Domino he has been designing homes for a variety of stylish clients.

The first issue of TradHome, the new partnership between Traditional Home and Lonny-arrived yesterday and hands down my fave story was Tom's work.

modern and ethnic

Moroccan rug

touches of blue

simple dining

Deborah Needleman's dining room in Domino

Tom's apartment from Domino

NY studio

Andy Warhol factory inspired shoot

images Patrick Cline, Melanie Acevedo, Paul Costello, Annie Schlector, Sophie Monroe

Ikea- Beloved Homes

2011-04-11T11:31:00.001-04:00

I was in Ikea recently and flipped through their book " Beloved Homes". Most of it was pretty ordinary Ikea filled homes, but a few stood out as particularly interesting.

The mix in this room is fab- old world details mixed with the Ghost chair and just a few Ikea pieces- the rug and vases.

A few years ago we seriously debated buying a house near by. The house was in pretty decrepit shape and didn't have particularly good bones to it. But what really made me want to buy it was the large barn on the property. I imagined a space similar to this one- where we could throw large sit down dinner party's...... some day perhaps we will have a space like that.

a nice mix of vintage, lot's of white and a punch of color.

Those chairs again-love them in orange, and a great dish display.

I love this detail- the owners let a rough broken opening as a way to display glassware and let light in.

images Stellan Herner

Sneak Peek- Rue 4

2011-03-22T08:49:00.003-04:00

The latest issue of Rue is out today, be sure to check out the shoot I styled of David Stark's spring collection for West Elm. Not only did I get to collaborate with the amazingly talented Mr. Stark but photographer extraordinaire William Brinson shot the pics and the beautiful food was styled by Rebecca Jurkevich.

Diffa

2011-03-21T08:00:00.003-04:00

This past week DIFFA hosted the annual Designing By Design in NYC. This year Margaret Russell of Architectural Digest was the honoree. I'm partial to quite a few of these as several were designed by people I have recently worked with and one I am presently working with.
Here are a few of my favorite tables-

This place setting is for the talented interior designer Mathew Patrick Smyth- Photographer John Gruen (who shot all of these pics) and I spent several months last year traveling around the country shooting Matthew's gorgeous work for his upcoming book, Living Traditions. I'm looking forward to sharing pictures from the book with you soon.

Designed Vanessa Panotas

The colored lights in the background change color in this setting by Scandia Home.

And last but not least this table by David Stark for Benjamin Moore. I just finished a shoot with the talented David for the upcoming issue of Rue magazine- stay tuned later this week to see it!
And again a special shout out to photographer John Gruen for shooting all of these stunning pictures for me!

A quick break from our regular programming

2011-03-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

image John Gruen

Today I am taking a quick detour to discuss something that is extremely important in the blog world and beyond- photo usage. This is such an important topic for bloggers. I am on both ends of it as both a stylist, creating original content for my blog and clients as well as a blogger. As blogging is relatively new and so many people blogging today have no previous experience a lot of confusion and problems have occurred. Susan and William Brinson of House Of Brinson wrote a great post discussing the subject on Design Sponge-definitely read it!
I recently discovered that the above picture that was styled by me, was floating around on Pinterest uncredited to either me or the photographer John Gruen. Luckily when I contacted the person she right away fixed the credit- but we don't always see our work out there.
For a few more words on the topic check out Frolic as well.
Ok, now back to your regular design programming.

The new Architectural Digest

2011-02-16T08:00:00.003-05:00

It's finally hear the long awaited first issue of Architectural Digest with Margaret Russell at the helm.

Image Pieter Estersohn

Did you ever think we would see pictures as beautiful as these in AD?

Image Pieter Estersohn

Image Joe Lally

Image Thomas Loof

Or hip designers like Commune?

Image Roger Davies

Image Pieter Estersohn

Image Martyn Thompson

So do you love it? I am for one am looking forward to the months ahead as Russell moves forward.

Photographer Sy Kattelson

2011-02-14T11:19:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday!
I have been meaning to show you some of the fashion pics my dad, Sy Kattelson shot for Glamour back in the 50's for some time now. This seemed like the perfect time as NY Fashion week and his 88th birthday coincided. For a bit more info on his career check here.

images Sy Kattelson

Afternoon quickie-Valentines treats

2011-02-11T12:04:00.011-05:00

Suck Uk

Dixit Design Lab

Have a great weekend and happy Valentines Day!

A few more things that caught my eye at the NY Gift Fair

2011-02-11T08:00:00.003-05:00

There is so much at the NY International Gift Fair that at a certain point one can go into design overdose. Though not all of it is worth looking at, here are some more pieces that made me stop and take an extra look.

As if I need any more pottery, but yet these dot vases from Xenia Taler are so cool.

These amazing paper bowls from Gallery 91 can be turned inside out and shaped freely allowing the patterns to change. Despite being made out of thin strips of paper they are quite strong and durable, yet retain an ethereal quality.

Change up your linens for spring to these lovely patterns in cotton and linen from Pehr Designs.

Along with pottery I have a sweet spot for stools and these coiled beech with fabric seats caught my eye at the Gift Fair. They come in black, blue and red and along with the cardboard stool below are from Saikai and are available at Tortoise General Store. I have been wanting to visit their store in Santa Monica for awhile- perhaps soon I will make it there.

A few fun lights from Suck UK- I like the industrial quality of both of them, the one below feels like my dad's old light box - it allows you to insert your own photo's changing the quality of light as well as giving you a place to display pictures.

And these made out of wood, remind me of construction lights, only way cooler.

I recently heard Tina Roth Eisenberg of Swiss Miss speak at ALT as part of her lecture she spoke about her design background and coming from Switzerland. She spoke about how good design is such a part of life there and to illustrate her point she showed a slide of the garbage bags which had fabulous graphics on them. Seeing these gold fish bags from Suck Uk reminded me of them and I just had to include them in my roundup.

Eye candy

2011-02-09T08:02:00.010-05:00

I don't want to leave you with just those dreary pictures of our so undone house so here's some design eye candy.........

Rustic glam

image source unknown

Logs and silver

image via Style Files

Bleached white

Image via This Is Glamorous

Beams and glass

image via Desire To Inspire

Turquoise and filagree

image via Door Sixteen

Concrete and crystal

image via Style Files

House update-moving so slowly!

2011-02-09T08:00:00.005-05:00

I am sure you are like me and right about now you are hoping for some house update eye candy- tile choices, walls be painted, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, lighting thoughts. Well if you think your disappointed by these pictures, think about how we feel!!

Several factors have added to the extreme slowness, horrible biting cold and constant snow storms have made it hard for the contractor to get anything done, plus he seems to have gone awol at a few different times for no obvious reason. So here we are months after buying and gutting the place with not a lot to show for it.

A few things have happened that are important but not very exciting, The walls are furred out and ready for insulation and sheetrock.

Here are our new windows- would be nice to see them installed instead of in boxes!

The upstairs dormers are in and it makes a tremendous difference to the space.

And the framing for the bedroom walls is in place.

Beth Katleman

2011-02-07T08:00:00.005-05:00

These incredible porcelain sculptures or "three dimensional wallpaper" are the work of artist Beth Katleman. I love that they look rather sweet on first glance-

but look closely below- the bridesmaid has been thrown in the pond.

Here the duck is falling off the piece as the little boy tries to keep his pants up.

I keep imagining a room with this wallpaper and a few of Katleman's pieces floating about.

They are inspired by 18th century French Toile de Jouy fabrics. Beth scours flea markets for castoffs and then casts them in porcelain. If you are in NYC the pieces are being shown at here until Feb. 17th.

Eli Popp wallpaper

2011-02-04T15:32:00.001-05:00

The other day these beautiful wallpaper images from Eli Popp appeared in my inbox. I love wallpaper but being a serial re-decorator I have always been afraid to actually use it in my own home. Case in point- we tiled our bathrooms when we first were remodeling the house. At the time we were into a moodier more Moroccan feel and the tile reflects that feeling. Well flash forward 10 years and the house is light and bright, and I am stuck with the old tiles. I know I could change them, but we have sunk so much money into this house and I am enjoying finally living in a construction free zone. I really wish we had gone for a neutral tile and brought in the colors with accessories and paint- things I have no qualms changing on a moments whim- much to the chagrin of my husband.

So anyway that's a long way of saying ......... I love and fear wallpaper, but if I was going to use it this black and white beauty below would look amazing in my bedroom!!

A bit of West Elm love

2011-02-03T09:23:00.001-05:00

Dear West Elm,
In the past I have told you how I love the styling in your catalogs but not your products as much.
Well I am writing to tell you that all changed with the latest catalog to arrive on my snow covered steps. Hey, guys you got it so right! I am feeling the need to run right out and get these beautiful vase to add to my already overflowing pottery collection-

And not only do I want these prints by John-Paul Philippe but paint addict that I am, I am now feeling the desire to paint my walls this amazing blue!

(that's between you and I darling, please don't tell the Mr.)

I already have a chaise I love - but now I feel the need to cheat on my chaise with this stunning Windsor one. Oh and can I have the artwork above it as well?

I'll be a good girl and keep my couch but add these watercolor pillows.

I don't want to appear needy but- If there is any way you could include this room- (I have been craving steel windows just like these for years),

and this little dining room as well- I would adore you for ever!!

XOXO, Raina

A few things that caught my eye at the NY International Gift Fair

2011-02-03T08:00:00.006-05:00

This has been one of those weeks when living in the country stinks. Like many of you we have gotten slammed with snow and ice. That combined with a sick child made spending a lot of time at the NY Gift Fair difficult. I did manage to run through quickly Monday afternoon and then shoot over to T he New Traditionalist showroom for a cocktail party with some of my favorite peeps Crystal and Anne to celebrate the 3rd (wow, already?) issue of Rue magazine. Thanks to Philip I was sipping incredible cocktails made by Jason while chatting with Anishka, (check out the fab place she designed in Rue #3) Karen, Jenn and Malene among others.

image by Ilenia Martini

So here's a few things that caught my eye at the show.

One of my favorite artists is Kara Walker and these plates from Christopher Jagmin remind me of her work, plus I love that he uses vintage plates and reworks them with his art.

I've been seeing a lot of images of dipped silverware lately- definitely a trend I am loving. These serving pieces from Ladies and Gentleman come in colors that would go great with my collection of dishes.

How about this nifty flat file from Jill Allyn, it is made from laser cut birch plywood and organic

cotton.

Jill's flat file would look great in an office next to this desk lamp from Cerno.

Aren't these lights from Cerno cool! First of all they are all LED, second, they are beautiful to touch and use. I'm lovin the wall sconce, closed it adds a nice glow to the room and-

open-wa-la a reading light that can point right to your book so as not to disturb the sleeping hubby.

My garden now suits the style of our house and the land surrounding it, kind of loose and rambling, but I dream of having a spare, modern sculptural garden and for that-or a city garden these steel planters from Planterworx would be amazing.

all above product images via manufacturers

Alt - a crazy couple of days

2011-01-28T18:33:00.001-05:00

ALT recap-

Proving that neither snow, sleet or ice will stop a design blogger from getting to ALT Summit I left Tues in an ice storm, after school being cancelled, my sitter not being able to come and missing my train. Then I had the joy of waking up at 5 am to make my flight!

The Plane Ride

1. Uneventful first leg of trip despite getting up at 5 am.

2. Delayed in Chicago for over 2 hours with no explanation.

3. Bumping people right and left.

4. As we are about to finally depart- woman declares she can't fly without her meds (and that American took them)

5. Another hour goes by while crew try's to find meds and negotiate with increasingly nutty woman and very cranky passengers.

6. American decides to remove woman from plane, woman refuses, passengers get really pissy.

7. Cops arrive. Cops negotiate nicely. Woman still refuses to leave plane.

8. Cops decide to forcibly remove her from plane, passengers urge them on rather loudly.

9. Cheering ensues.

10. Crew comes to clear woman's stuff -

SHE WAS SITTING ON HER MEDS THE WHOLE FREAKIN TIME!!

Pro's-

1. Met a couple of great bloggers- Cyd and Elizabeth, also going to ALT and had a good story in the end.
Con's-
1. Flight took foreeeeever!

Alt Highlights

Pro's-
1. Roomed with the amazingly talented Crystal from Rue

Fab classes such as Social Media, Ethics and Etiquette, Magazines; What's happenng Online and Off, Faster, Better & Smarter Blogging and Why You'll Love Affiliatte Relationships.

2. Getting to hear Swiss MIss and DJ Spooky speak

Getting to chat with Mondo- he is delic!

3. Meeting so many great bloggers in real life, such as Simply Grove, Modern Kiddo, Draw Pilgrim, Design for Mankind, Design Sponge and Design Milk.

4. The cool party's- especially Kate Spade ( I really wanted to win the very fabulous typewriter bag!!!) and HGTV.

5. Thrifting tour with Liz- bought what I refer to as cool stuff I absolutely need, and the Mr. calls useless junk we don't need and don't have space for- you decide........

Con's-
1. Hmmm- falling for DJ Spooky (along with half the room) and realizing I am already happily married

Getting Back Home
Pro's-
1. Been on the road so much lately and was so happy to see the Mr. and kids.
2. Lot's of cool ALT goodies.

Con's-
1. Flight was rather boring and uneventful after the one getting there and no fun ALT pals to dish with.
2. Post ALT exhaustion and let down after all the fun.
3. A huge pile of work to get back to.