Air of Elegance

Perhaps it was the morning field trip to the aviation museum or my everyday demeanor ... but my head is in the clouds.  No longer is luxury design confined to the ground.  Illustrious fashion houses, such as Versace and Hermes, have taken aircraft interiors to new heights.

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Such extravagance seems frivolous; especially when one considers the abundance of poverty, social injustices, and health crises plaguing humankind.  That being said, each person on Earth, regardless of economic status, deserves a home or space that, as Oprah eloquently stated, "rise(s) up to meet you."  

I am not suggesting Hermes helicopters for all; simply that everyone deserves a safe space that is a reflection of one's self.  

Most of my content is utterly ridiculous and unattainable to 99% of the population.  However, my "CDJ's" offer me inspiration, stretch my imagination, and  make me smile.  I hope they do the same for you. 

Cheers!

Elizabeth

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” ~Theodore Roosevelt 

Ocean House

After my "trip" to the West Coast, perhaps I shall pay a visit to Watch Hill, Rhode Island. Ocean House is the perfect haven to reacclimate myself to East Coast traditions and design.

Centerbrook Architects superbly restored this grand Victorian hotel.  Ah... luxury and the beach.  Is there a finer union? 

Cheers!

Elizabeth

“A real building is one on which the eye can light and stay lit.”  ~Erza Pound

Pink, White and Blue

Did you watch Million Dollar Decorator on Tuesday night?  I actually did a double take when I saw the room below.  My reaction was comparable to someone walking down the street and spotting one of their favorite celebrities.  I've seen this room countless times over the past few years, but I paused and replayed multiple time just to make sure it was the real deal.



Mary McDonald

This dazzling interior leads us to today's CDJ.   I am an avid collector of blue and white porcelain, most of which is displayed in my family room built-ins.  Now, I need some art work with chinoiserie ceramics as the subject to compliment the space (and some pink).



Love these Ceramic Plate Giclees from Neiman's, but the set of three is a little pricey.  Below are a few prints that allow you to achieve the same look for a fraction of the price.  Pay a visit to your local craft store to pick up an inexpensive frame, some spray paint and matting. 

"Blue and White Beach China" Photograph

"Ming in Indigo" Print

"Modern Vintage" Print

"Blue and White Ginger Jar" Print

"Chinoiserie Plate" Print

Cheers!

Elizabeth

“Art is never finished, only abandoned.”  ~ Leonardo da Vinci

Paint It Black

Typically, I am a white trim type of gal.  However, there is no denying the fact that glossy black millwork is glamorous.  Lacquered molding and doors are a relatively easy way to add depth and architectural detail to any room.

Images above via Christina Murphy Interiors

 Images via pintrest.com

Rob Southern via House Beautiful

 Kate Spade's Apartment

via Decor Pad

Brian McCarthy via Decor Pad

Lulu Powers via Lonny

Sleek black windows, doors and molding would make fantastic additions to my imaginary office/den.  What room in your home could use a little trim polish? 

Cheers!

Elizabeth

"To dare is to lose one's footing momentarily.  To not dare is to lose oneself."  ~Soren Kierkegaard

Space: Modern Comforts

If I had to describe my personal style, I would say it's traditional with contemporary hints.  Now that's not to say that I do not appreciate and admire spaces that employs different types of design.  Occasionally I wish for the courage to incorporate that admiration in my home and create a room totally unconventional for myself.  After many attempts I have come to accept that I will not feel at home unless I am true to my style.  However  I am thrilled when I am presented with an opportunity to help others with varying tastes.

This image from the newest addition of Lonny caught my eye. It's the apartment of artist Martine Chaisson.  The ying and the yang of elegant  femininity  juxtaposed to the modern masculinity marries the space in perfect unison. The crystal chandelier, the delicate sheers and the shimmery tones of the paint color allow for an inviting room while staying true to the more contemporary elements.  Well done!

Cheers!

Elizabeth

"Life is a series of thousands of tiny miracles."  ~ Mike Greenberg

Interiors: Coastal Living

Do you recall the post about Marjorie Bloom handbags?  If not, let me refresh your memory.  My cousin's girlfriend Sara introduced me to the charming handbags on our trip to Turks and Caicos.  Sara discovered Marjorie Bloom at the adorable boutique Matilda's, which is owned by her family friend.  The shop is absolutely charming...

That made me think... imagine what the owner's home looks like?  Lucky for me, my cousin had paid a visit to Stuart, FL, so I heard first hand.  My enthusiastic cousin L.D. gushed over the Small's home and insisted it would not disappoint.  Side note - L.D. has fantastic taste but he is known to embellish from time to time. Well, I was thrilled to discover the family's home featured in the April 2011 issue of Coastal Living.  The casual and colorful haven, surrounded by turquoise water was not talked up enough.  L.D., I expected more from you...

For larger images, click HERE

Clearly, I am still in vacation mode and I imagine living in this  seaside sanctuary would be similar to a full time vacation.  

Cheers!

Elizabeth

“Sit in reverie, and watch the changing color of the waves that break upon the idle seashore of the mind”  ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow