Privet House is one of my favorite shops for home accessories. From table linens, vases, trays and cutting boards to an occasional scarf and fabulous vintage finds, there is always something tempting for yourself or your hostess. The shop has recently moved from the hamlet of Warren, CT to the stylish village of New Preston to join other delightful independently-owned stores. Each one has its own personality with an ever-changing assortment of wonderful things.  With the holiday bearing down on us all, I took some photos of what it is like to shop in beautifully stocked and merchandised places where the sales associates are mature, friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.

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Most of my days in New York are spent racing to the next meeting, being sequestered in windowless offices or squished with the masses of underground transportation users. Rarely do I take the time to look up or down to experience the incredible magic of the city.

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The production of cement tile is documented as far back as the 13th century in France and Portugal with some early installations still in in remarkably good condition. The hay day of cement tile in the US was in the 1920’w and 30’s. The tiles were often used in kitchens and on sun porches, particularly  in warm climates.  The patterns and colors were bold, the material was durable, decorative and sophisticated.

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The New Bespoke is the compelling monograph featuring the work of  Boston interior designer Frank Roop. An earlier career in specialty menswear at the eponymous shop Louis Boston formed his unique and unexpected concepts for designing a space. Murray Pearlstein, founder of Louis Boston, was both a tutor and mentor. Pearlstein had a high regard for classics with an open mind about new trends that kept him hip and cool into his 70s. His extraordinary taste, style, sophistication and elegance clearly informed Frank’s design perspective.

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