Tag Archives: Inspiration

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.

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I know that many of you saw this bath featured in World of Interiors. I would be remiss if I did not comment on this completely original Art Deco design: it is perfection.  The New York City apartment, a penthouse with 30 rooms on Gracie Square with views in several directions, was owned by Conde Nast. The design elements of the bath and the entire apartment fall well within the decorative arts framework made popular in the 1920s and 1930s in France. The influences were informed by contemporary design themes from LeCorbusier and Walter Gropius, historical excesses and exuberant wrought iron floral designs of Edgar Brandt, organic forms from Hector Guimard and crisp angularities from Charles Rennie Mackintosh are evident in the etched glass.

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Whenever I’m traveling between meetings or en route to our Waterworks showroom, I am obsessed with taking photographs of New York from every angle. From the street there are always surprises in small bites. But even views from 20 floors up capture long vistas and exploit the density of the city. I use only my iPhone for these photo ops, and am amazed by the quality of the images.

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The recent popularity of gray kitchens follows the trend for the color in general. From light to dark and cool to warm, gray is the new neutral.  It is an easy partner with many stone surface materials and is easily neutralized with white. This classic gray/white combination is uncomplicated, timeless, associated with elements in nature and not far from the fundamental simplicity of black and white.

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