GAME MANIA

As most designers do, I have a number of "Look Books" full of amazing magazine tear outs, most are rooms, gardens and anything that strikes me as inspirational. I also have style files organized by the name of the item, ex. "table lamps". I spend countless hours cataloging these images. While I was laboring over my beloved books today, I came across a tear out of a home that I've had for ages and am still drawn to. It's the weekend retreat of Dara Caponigro , the style director for Domino Magazine . Domino is one of my favorites. When Dara's home was published in Elle Decor , Domino didn't even exist. These rooms are so liveable and relaxed. I can imagine settling down for a glass of wine on the sofa after a stressful day of shopping or swimming at the beach. Often many of the vacation homes I come across while perusing my subscriptions don't seem attainable. Dara's does..... Photographs: Elle Decor, Photographer: Laura Resen

The Cast I feel I have to mention this award winning series for a few reasons. First and foremost the historical depiction of the 1960's is dead on. The interiors, fashion, cars, and product placement transport the viewer back in time with unbelievable accuracy. Mad Men created by Matthew Weiner , begins it's second season this Sunday, July 27 th at 10pm on AMC . For those of you not familiar with this provocative series, here is a quick overview. The show takes place during the 1960's. Most of the scenes are set at a fictional advertising firm on Madison Avenue in New York City. Each week the drama depicts the lives of the firm's execs and their families. The social etiquette and historical references of the time period are marvelously woven through the plot. Think of a time pre - JFK, smoking regulations and sexual harassment laws. I often watch vintage movies for inspiration. This show is current but portrays a snap shot of a distant era. It's sexy, intense an...

CLASS ACT , William Haines , Legendary Hollywood decorator (see photograph and author at right) CLASS ACT, is truly an inspirational read, not only for those with an appreciation for the glamorous "Hollywood Regency" style but for anyone interested in refining their design sensibilities. William Haines was a charismatic man destined for the entertainment world at a young age. He moved out to Hollywood in 1922 after winning a talent contest. He was 22 years old. William went on to appear in a number of movies and became close friends with Joan Crawford, George Burns and Carole Lombard to name a few. After opening an antiques shop in Hollywood he was often commissioned to design for the rich and famous. His style was sophisticated, and light for the time period. William was the true creator of "Hollywood Glamour". In the late 1940's William's work shifted to a modern aesthetic. He loved unusual pieces and combined an array of pieces. His use of Chinoiserie ...

The Perfect pieces for dining al fresco.... I know we've all seen the nautical theme but when given a modern twist I think it's still fresh!! A cold bottle of Fume Blanc , the catch of the day, plenty of tea lights,and some good company, are all you need to complete this evening! Cheers!!! I suggest using just a shot of orange, the linen napkin is plenty, both would be overkill! David Hick fabric - would make a stunning table runner or cloth (pattern: Kyoto) Plates: CB2.com Pitcher: http://www.vivre.com/ Goblets: WSHome Lucite Tray: http://www.iomoi.com/ Linen Napkin: Tag David Hicks Fabric: Lee Jofa

I've decided to post inspirational images and ideas on Thursdays. Most of us are ready for a mental break at this point in the week, I can't think of a better reason for some uplifting design lore and lust. Happy "Thirsty Thursday" On a personal note, I am in the process of giving my kitchen a much needed but budget friendly face lift. At some point I will revamp the entire space but for now some fresh paint, updated lighting, and window treatments will have to do... A few inspiring photos from my kitchen "Look Book". Image: Elle Decor Timeless elegance. Someday I will have a banquette in my kitchen Image: www.ProvincialKitchens.com Two words: Clean + Classic Met Home: June 2008 My baby liked this one as well, he tried to tear it out of the magazine before I could. The backsplash behind the stove is covered in a rich green penny round tile. The scanned image doesn't capture it's luminosity. I love the pendants.. Another fab. Oly Studio item Met Ho...

Chandeliers and pendants are the perfect way to enhance a dining area. I often tell clients that if they don't have the budget for a dining room overhaul that a dramatic paint color on the walls and a beautiful new light source on a dimmer switch will transform a lackluster room!! The options are endless...Here are a few to gush over. From top to bottom: Caboche by Foscarini , Troy Crystal from Zia Priven , BPL by Rotaliana , nickel pendant by Zia Priven , Dome by Ingo Maurer , Vintage Fixture-1st dibs, Bamboo from Pieces, Inc., Cage Light by Circa Lighting, Coral from Mecox Gardens

My discussion of Piet Boon wouldn't be complete without sharing some information and photographs of his vacation home located in Bonaire . Bonaire is a Dutch Island located in the Caribbean, eighty six miles east of Aruba. The average yearly temperature is 82 degrees. Piet rents his oceanfront retreat for a mere $8,000-$9,000 a week, depending on the number of guests using the property. This would be such a fun spot to escape to with some of your friends. Save your pennies What a beautiful spot! For more info. visit www.pietboonbonaire.com