|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
I am most certainly not an expert on the architectural implication of scale and proportion in a building or room. What I do know is the most satisfying proportions follow the golden mean, which is the basis for traditional composition and modern asymmetrical design. Pleasing proportions are created as much by intuitive judgement as by strict calculation. It is difficult to illustrate this concept, but I have a few images that will make the point.
Square tubs were all the rage in the small baths of the 30's. This one in mint green with a built in seat was quite fancy. Matching green tile with pink trim is very much of the period.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recently, I went to a wonderful 1920’s Tudor style house situated on a golf course in Westchester County, NY. The rooms had gracious proportions, the interior details original and the condition perfect. That is, except for the bathrooms. They too were original and untouched but certainly not attractive. It was hard to imagine a time when a lilac colored floor and mint green walls would have been considered pretty. Or, bubble gum pink fixtures appropriate for the master suite bath. The tiles, no matter what the color, were 4 x 4 with huge grout joints. The most redeeming feature of the 4 baths was the use of technical tile trim pieces installed to go in, out and around corners, finish walls, and frame inserts.
The always well dressed Duke of Windsor had an equally well appointed bath. The over arching statement in this space is the use of elegant materials; the glorious figured Arabescato marble clads the walls and floor, beautiful and decorative Art Deco chairs upholstered in white leather encourage visiting, the long and comfortable bathtub urges soaking . You can imagine the Duchess sipping tea, or champagne, having a conversation about their next travel destination while the Duke is buried in bubbles. Or perhaps they discussed the next piece of jewelry he was going to design for her.
You can never go wrong with a fabulous bouquet of peonies.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
I simply cannot believe it is time to think about the holidays: Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and the New Year. Where did the year go? With that said, it is time to stock your gift closet with a stash of holiday hostess gifts. It is so much more relaxing to have something well-chosen at hand rather than have a last-moment panic attack when you have to run out to find the “perfect” gift. So, do your thinking and shopping now. And when the holidays are actually here, you can focus on enjoying the spirit of the season.
