Thursday, December 12, 2013

Design Series Week 4- Decorating with Tortoise

Pen Shell Accent Table by Williams Sonoma


As I've mentioned on more than one occasion, I find it particularly important to keep current with the latest design trends. Oftentimes I feel as if I've seen it all - feathered walls, backlit floors, and simulated fireplace flames to name a few - but it's intriguing how one little idea can take off. One of my clients in Brookline showed me the accent table above. Maybe you've seen it: the Pen Shell Accent Table from Williams Sonoma. I like the simplicity of the design, but it was the veneer that struck a chord with me. It reminded me of tortoise shell. Ever since, I've been noticing just how much tortoise is currently being used in home decor, and thought it would be a great topic for my final design series post. Below is a collection of all things tortoise that I was able to round up for you:

Tortoise Blinds from Smith and Noble



I need to start using tortoise blinds more. They are lovely when layered beneath a stationary Roman shade like in the image above. I like how these ones open top down as well as bottom up. It makes creating a sense of privacy easier.



Barbara Bradlee

I found this example of tortoise decorating in the Kravet showroom a few weeks ago. When allowed to become a focal point, the shell itself is quite impactful.




Tortoise Shell Table Lamp by Cyan Designs

I've recently discovered Cyan Design as a fun source for unique and affordable home decor. The shell on this table lamp looks so luxurious atop a lucite base.


If Oscar jumped on the tortoise bandwagon, then it must be a good trend.


Tortoise Shell Mirror, Design by Su Casa Designs, Boston
Sometimes I think that tortoise shell can feel somewhat glam, so I was excited to see this tortoise shell finished bamboo mirror above with a Greek key motif. The space feels beachy and bright.










Tortoise Shell Stone, design by David Wilkes Builders

 Who would've known that there is such a thing as tortoise stone, made to resemble the shell. I like the color and tonal variations of the pattern on the walls. It gives the contemporary space some warmth.


Vintage Tortoise Shell Chair, from Pinterest



How interesting is this? So unique. I could just imagine uncovering a treasure like this at an estate sale. I would enjoying using this as a statement piece in a grand hall, maybe in front of a large leaning floor mirror with a standing lamp.


The design world is so much bigger than anyone could ever imagine, myself included, and it's often difficult to keep up with its pulse. It was my hopes in this four week design series that I could give you a glimpse of what I'm finding interesting these days, what inspires me and gets me excited about what I do. I always welcome your feedback, so please let me know what posts you enjoyed.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Design Series Week 3 ~ Decorating with Pattern

Who do you consider to be the Queen of Pattern? I can think of many designers who enjoy using patterns, whether it is layered patterns, or one that stands out against a more even backdrop.
Lilly Pulitzer Home Collection
Lilly Pulitzer Home Collection

I have a client in Brookline who loves Lilly Pulitzer.  It's just my luck that Lee Jofa carries a Lilly Pulitzer fabric and trim line that I have employed on more than one occasion, and their sister company, Brunschwig , has an abundant selection of fabrics with bright colors and bold patterns. The makings of a fun project are in the works. I am thinking something energetic for a chair and pillows juxtaposed with a solid sofa to ground the design and provide some rest for one's eyes.

Lilly Pulitzer Bedding for Garnet Hill

 Her patterns and colors are lively, full of optimism, and vivid. This image above makes me want to be a kid again. Doesn't this bunk room look like a fun place to sleep?

Lilly Pulitzer Trims for Lee Jofa


If Lilly Pulitzer is my Queen of Pattern, then Jonathan Adler is my King. His style is a stark mid-century contrast to Lily's preppy take.


Jonathan Adler
Carnaby Vase
Brocade Wallpaper

Which designer do you prefer? Could you live with this much pattern?