A Look Back at Vintage Mosaics

November 4, 2016

Multiple borders combine for great impact.Slideshow

I recently stayed the the newly opened Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in Chicago (a Roman and Williams design). Upon walking in the door, I was completely mesmerized by the original mosaics on the floor. They were breathtaking; great colors, bold patterns, exquisite execution. And, they were in perfect condition. I realized that I have photographed great mosaics in various places over time and thought I would inspire you with a look back at some of my favorites.

Full post →
  /     /     /     /     /  
0

Hunting for Summer Hostess Gifts

November 3, 2016

A perfect selection of cheese and fruit for casual summer outdoor dining. I was thinking about this wonderful spread when I selected a hostess gift for friends in Vermont.Slideshow

Sunny August weekends are upon us, and we are about to visit old friends who have a country house on 100 incredible acres in Vermont. Theirs is a very casual lifestyle with children, grandchildren and friends coming and going throughout the season. The question is, what can I bring them as a house gift that is cool, stylish and most of all, very practical?

Full post →
  /     /     /     /  
0

Architectonics: A Proposition of Color

November 3, 2016

Our Architectonics ceramic tile with its palette of 123 colors.Slideshow

We have been completely immersed in color with the relaunch of our favorite handmade ceramic tile line, Architectonics. After years of focusing on many shades of white, we wanted to bring color back into bath and kitchen design. For inspiration we looked at travel photos, fashion, our favorite richly illustrated books, our closets, and an old standby, the color wheel.

Full post →
  /     /     /     /  
0

A Random Selection of Favorite Design Books

November 2, 2016

Decorated Papers cover with a collage of different types of papers.Richly ornamented papers have been in use for centuries but often go unnoticed.Slideshow

I simply love books; new and old, design, decoration, architecture, art, craft, fashion, landscape and much more. I use them for reference, inspiration and pleasure. There is something special about each book — from the texture and design of the book jacket to the choice of material for the end papers, from the selection of font to the cadence of photographs, and of course the content. For me, each treasured favorite is highly personal.

Full post →
  /     /     /     /     /     /     /     /     /  
0