maisondelise

wish I'd done it first

2012-01-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

So, I know that I didn't invent the term "real-estalking," but I use it constantly. I also do it constantly.

Who knew that there was a blog. And why haven't I been led to it sooner.

New obsession.

The Real Estalker
Recent Post:

Old post that I was drawn to. It even includes floor plans!

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelly On the Move Again

Tabitha Simmon's townhouse

2012-01-24T06:37:00.000-08:00

February's Vogue featured the great Chelsea town house of shoe designer (and former stylist) Tabitha Simmons's & photographer Craig McDean. I'm in love. I think you will recall my near despondent reaction to not getting the windows that I wanted in my renovation. Here they are used to perfection.

Below are from a while back:

maison martin margiela's does it's first hotel

2012-01-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

I've always loved Maison Martin Margiela for it's blend of classical and avant-garde design. Check out how that vision is translated into interiors of Hotel La Maison Champs-Elysees.
Of course I like it's palette which is consistent with the fashion house: black and white.

I almost bought these mushrooms at Lars Bolander a few years back!

Repost: Remodelista

2012-01-14T07:23:00.000-08:00

I wanted to repost this section of Remodelista for those that missed it. This hotel just got added to my must visit list.
Here is their entry:

Hotels, Lodging & Restaurants: Hix Island House in Vieques, Puerto Rico

From JulieJanuary 13, 2012

Our friend Elizabeth Roberts recently clued us in to her favorite winter escape: Hix Island House, a wabi-sabi, eco-friendly hotel in Vieques. Here's her account:

"Designed by Toronto-based architect John Hix, the Hix Island House is a perfect blank slate for viewing the surrounding nature; the contrast of the rugged, natural landscape with the geometric forms of the hotel is simply lovely. Until recently, Vieques (a small island off the east coast of mainland Puerto Rico) was a US Navy testing site for bombs and missiles; now, the beaches are wildlife refuges. I suggest renting a jeep to explore the undeveloped beaches that surround the island; the bioluminescent bays and the beaches are a must."

For more information, go to Hix Island House.

Above: The hotel is set on a verdant 13-acre parcel; image via Luxist.

Above: "The buildings are made of block and reinforced concrete and surfaced with plaster; the exteriors are clad in chain-link fencing, which allows vines to climb up the sides of the buildings," says Roberts.

Above: "The bedrooms feature Marimekko bed linens and custom furniture."

Above: "There is no need for air conditioning or heat—the concrete radiates the sun's warmth during the night and the winds keep the rooms feeling cool and practically bug-free. I especially love sitting on the room's private terrace at dusk and listening to the transition from bird calls to insects and frogs after the sun sets."

Above: "Each room has its own kitchen; it's a nice change to cook simple meals while on vacation. I might stop for a few provisions at one of the bodegas on my way to or from the beach, but aside from that, there's no need to shop."

Above: "The windows are free of glass and are situated to align with the prevailing winds and the sun's path of travel."

Above: "The hotel's cotton robes are available for purchase; when it's snowing and miserably cold in New York, we're reminded of tropical evenings spent on the hammock at Hix."

Above: "Among the many design details I admire: The custom wood furniture. I love the contrast of the rough-hewn, natural wood against the smooth, polished concrete."

Above: "Early-morning yoga in the open studio is a good way to start the day, followed by an outdoor shower."

Above: "The simple modernist pool is defined by a slab concrete wall."

new additions

2012-01-12T08:50:00.000-08:00

We found these great vintage French chairs and I'm integrating them into the living room.

Look at the metal balled leg - very 50s sputnik.

Menorahs

2011-12-21T06:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Hanukkah! Check out these great menorahs.
I've posted about Lindsey Adelman's light fixtures. One was on my wish list for the dining room. They are so amazing. Check out this menorah that she designed.

Available at Matter.

And a few others.

From DWR

Also love these foldable star sculptures from DWR. Great Hanukkah (or any) decor.

All from Jonathan Adler

A clever idea from Martha Stewart

5 days until Christmas... what?!

2011-12-19T11:38:00.000-08:00

Spotted some great gifts from J. Crew for kids:

Here are some good ideas for the bigger kids & for good stocking stuffers:

Will be away for Christmas, so I'll be sure to post inspiration from the sun, sand & sea when I return.

gift ideas

2011-12-12T06:28:00.000-08:00

Shopping for Christmas gifts for men can often be daunting.
Here are a few ideas.

Libero Ferrero
Italian style luggage handmade in Chicago:

Or this one from Coach:

Great basic shoes by Ylati:

Barbour jacket:

Taylor Supply Co. jackets:

And, if your of the 1%, this vintage Ferrari:

Happy shopping!

Little Nest sale!

2011-12-06T09:04:00.000-08:00

For all you great parents out there, check out Gilt Groupe today for Little Nest furniture.
They make classic modern chairs in petit sizes for the kids! I absolutely love all of them.
http://www.gilt.com/sale/children/little-nest

Mini Egg chair

Little Swan

Petite Eames

I mean, how fabulous?

hotel du marc

2011-12-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

This place is stellar.
Housed in the former residence of Madame Clicquot, Hotel du Marc was renovated by Veuve Clicquot inside and out. The decor is a mix of antique pieces, custom art and other clever design elements enchant guests.
Definitely on my must visit list.

The entry features this mirror installation that is a tribute to Issey Miyake's "Pleates Please"

Cheers.

sometimes more is more

2011-12-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

I am deciding on my holiday decorations and as I look for inspiration, I was struck with Fabrizio Rollo's Sao Paulo apartment in Elle Decor.

I love the intense mix. I often hear myself saying "edit, edit, edit. Pare down." This place gave me a little freedom to listen to the inner voice that wants to be surrounded by things that I love. Even if that is a lot of things.

Another way to be inspired is with the iconic an whimsy of NYC holiday windows.

At Bergdorfs:

Doonan went Gaga at Barney's:

Lots more to come. I'll be visiting NYC in a few!

Happy decorating.

Greenwich Hotel

2011-11-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

This is a great place to stay in New York. It feels like a private residence and has warmth and sophistication. I really loved the palette and the light fixtures. The lighting is really subtle and beautiful.

Great courtyard

The baths feature Moroccan tiles, most are different.

The Shibui spa and pool underground are serene.

Lobby

Dering Hall

2011-11-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

This new online marketplace for interior designers, architect, artisans and design dealers to showcase their work and high-end home furnishings and accessories is just out of this world good.

http://www.deringhall.com/

So many nice things to see and read about.

Urban Electric Company

2011-11-11T17:13:00.000-08:00

I'm a big fan of Urban Electric Company lighting. Each fixture is customizable with a wide array of beautiful finishes.

They have a quick ship option which is always pleasing for those projects that need to be complete before the holidays.
Here are some favorites:

Melissa Wall

Urban Smokebell

Lafayette Single

Anson Ribbon

Shaw

The above are all part of their quick ship offerings.

Globe magazine

2011-11-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

I am honored to have been featured in the Boston Globe Magazine on October 30th.
Marni Katz described the impact of the gallery wall or picture collage in her descriptive article.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/magazine/2011/10/29/picture-picture-wall/CLTu6x0jqntUsbwddAsP4O/story.html

I am also thrilled to see Jane Miller's beautiful vingnette. Check out her great store in the South End and her great work here: http://www.jemhome.com/

fine details

2011-10-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

A set of Match pewter place settings arrived this week giving us an eight place setting. So pleased to use & touch these beautiful objects daily.

Of course they work great with the Match serving plate we received from my cousin Allyson.

And the beautiful pieces of Astier de Villate we received.

I use the platter often

and love most the (non-oft used) fluted bowl.

Two new pieces are below.

This one is just lovely.

John Derian has paired with Astier de Villatte to ensure that there is more to covet.

This is a perfect reason to use hardware that you love in your home. It's not an afterthought. It's your jewelry. Something to touch and admire often.
Beautiful knobs:

Anything from Nanz:

Restoration pieces:

Often Rejuventaion hardware will do what is needed to pull a project together:

Beauty is in the details.

mood shots of the house

2011-10-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

It's almost always about the lighting...

Thanks again to Jim Sowden!

Some pretty house shots

2011-10-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Jim Sowden for taking some lovely & much deserved pictures of my house! Looking pretty good, if I do say so myself.

Why is my list of decor wants growing at the same pace that I crave paring down and getting rid? That push and pull is constant in our lives as consumers. However, it is satisfying and necessary to sit back and enjoy what you have every once in a while.

Guest Spot : Stunning Black Lighting

2011-09-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hi, Iím Susi, a writer for Design Shuffle, a community for interior designers, home decorators and other design professionals. Maison de Lise asked me to do a post about decorating ideas that use stunning black lighting this week. I love dramatic black lighting for fall and winter so am happy to share some of my favorite rooms with black lighting, as well as some great finds. Black lighting, not to be confused with black lights (that's a whole other kind of article), adds drama to a space, especially when paired with dark, moody colors.

Knight Moves via

Black shades are an easy way to add the look of black lighting to a room. Unify disparate lighting, such as table lamps and chandeliers, with sleek, stunning black shades makes for a polished look.

Carolina Eclectic via

Love the oversize scale of these black pendant lights hung in a group of three to make a dramatic lighting fixture above the farmhouse table. A nice mix of vintage industrial and farmhouse to create a chic dining space.

Cote Maison via

Black industrial lighting suits this minimalist, loft kitchen. Black pendant lights are an unexpected addition to a kitchen.

Purple Area via

Dramatic charcoal grey walls set the tone for this living room's interior design. An arc lamp with a black shade, lined in a metallic gold, suits the room's dramatic palette.

Little Blue Deer via

A group of stunning modern black pendants create a golden glow over this dining table with their gold lined interiors. Love the mix of shapes and the matte black finish.

DecorPad via

Simple drum shade hanging lights are stunning in black. The black shade makes the simple shape more dramatic and glamorous than a linen or white shade.

French Bedroom Company via

This charming black rabbit lamp feels more like sculpture than lighting. The glossy finish on the lamp base nicely reflects the light. Would be a lovely addition to foyer, dining room and living room designs.

Design Sponge via

A gorgeous black glass chandelier is stunning in this living room. The black is more striking than clear glass or even silver because it immediately draws the eye to it.

Thanks to the folks over at Design Shuffle for bringing this content to you! Check out Design Shuffle for tons of fabulous interior design ideas from bedroom designs to bathroom designs and more.

corner office

2011-08-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

hello there!
I'd like to share this great office that I decorated in Boston. The view is really killer, but here are some shots of the furnishings. The cowhide rug really keeps it from looking too corporate.

Pouf Pouf Baby

2011-08-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I've been dubbed pouf baby by my husband.
This is funny for a few reasons. The first is because it's an hilarious name. The second is because our summer neighbors have a Pomeranian that they have called Puff Baby. (It's puffy when not shorn and small & sweet like a baby.) The third is because it's retro, as in: not Pouf Diddy, nor is it Pouf Mommy (also funny).
It's funny because there is some truth in the moniker: I am a bit pouf crazy. It's not as though I set out to be, but in about '09, I graduated from a pillow overload person to a pouf person.

They are the easiest thing to add to a room without the space or cost commitment of a piece of furniture. I have a pair of antique Moroccan orange leather ones that I'll never regret buying. I've recommended at least one to almost every client.
Embarrassed to admit it that.

But they are great. For kids, for guests, for foot stools, for a little shock of color. For the hell of it. When shopping for accessories to add to a room, I may shout out "how about a pouf, Baby?"

John Derian has the best,
but here are some other great ones. Lot's work well in kids' rooms:

Above from Anthropologie

Above available through Etsy

Above from Serena & Lily

Above available at Mohr & McPherson

From CB2

Above available through Tazi Designs.

to fake or not to fake

2011-08-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

I’ve been a decorator for a while and have learned quite a bit. My tastes have evolved, but there are certain things that are just GOOD. And they will always be good. (Eames chairs, Cherner chairs, Saarinen tables, George Smith sofas)

Eames Molded Plastic Rocker version

Cherner chair

Saarinen Side table

George Smith Sofa

Like fashion, there will always be exciting trends and of-the-moment looks, but there are certain things that are just GOOD. Classics. (The LBD, a great trench, black) There will always be black.

In all design, there will always be the paradigm: classic modern shapes, classic traditional shapes and a slew of interpretations in between.

That’s what makes this fun!

So I am left pondering my few favorite classics.

I covet a Burberry trench.

I can’t afford said trench. Over the years, I’ve purchased at least one trench a year at one price point or another. At this point, I could have a Burberry or two.

However, that is not how I look at it when I spot a stylish and more earthly priced trench at Club Monaco, or H & M, for that matter.

At last I get to my point.

Would Eero Sarrinen mind if I purchased a knock off tulip based table? I doubt it.

Does it make me less chic that I own a “cozy chair” from white on white as opposed to the Womb chair?

Maybe.

What do you all think? It’s a mean, tight purse string world out there.

I seek out bargains for a living. Sometimes I pat myself on the back. Sometimes I hear myself saying, “I really got what I paid for.”

The more I see, the more I know what is worth the splurge and what gets bang for the buck. It's a delicate dance.

In the blog-o-sphere

2011-08-18T07:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the ever cool Marni Katz, with hand-on-the-pulse and eye on design, style & art for her story on The Inside Source. "Taking the Mod Outside" features outdoor spaces that have maintained the modern look loved inside outside.

Lookee there! It's my outdoor space to the left. Should have raked & styled it a bit better (um, hello - where are my striped pillows?), but so glad to be included with such beautiful outdoor spaces. The space on the right is totally inspiring with it's Kartell sofas. I hope my bamboo grows to that height. Check out the story here.

Now I am motivated more than ever to get some professional pictures.

what I am missing today

2011-08-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

I'd like to be at my beach in Orient.

You can't force inspiration and sometimes going to look for it does not pan out.

Today I may need to take a break from trying to put together a scheme and let it flow naturally....Risky? Perhaps.

More black and white love.

2011-08-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

This bath really speaks to me. It's very pleasant that I have not tired of the black trim. I am thankful everyday that I have it & it makes me happy when I see it in publications or otherwise.

Above images from the home of designer Charles Mellersh in London.

I likely can't get away with doing stripes like these for my clients (yet!), but check out how fun!:

Above images from NY Magazine of the apartment of Yuko Shimizu, a freelance illustrator and teacher at the School of Visual Arts.

I think I would always be neat if my closet looked like this.

Recently posted on Remodelista. An easy to achieve peaceful outdoor space.

Look familiar? Save for the deer head, I thought this was my own dining room for a second!

Workstead chandelier

Thank you NYMag for today's Home Design

2011-08-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

Christopher Chiappa hand carved this console as well as the moldings and the two-toned paint and plaster job. I want to meet this artist & exhibition designer. I mean, he's designed shows for Hella Jongerius? (Just got her book, Misfit).

Take me to your LI City loft, please.

Plus he has the Marcel Wanders rope chair. How does that chair work everywhere? Everywhere.

This is a Mark Cunningham designed bedroom in a Hudson Valley home.

He designed that crazy hole. It's an air vent that he built up with styrofoam and plaster to create a creepy but cool portal.

This image really spoke to me more literally as residential designer. Something to apply to real projects. It's the black lacquer, of course. It's also the charm of an antique chair passed down from the resident's grandmother mixed with modern lines and a serene (and stark) palette. Those closet doors are just so damn cool.

Spirit Magazine - Thanks Ricardo!

2011-07-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the ever fabulous and fashionable Ricardo Rodriguez for including me in his "Ricardo Recommends" piece in Spirit Magazine.

Apologies for the poor scan.

Wanted to share the light fixture that I was also mad for when he asked what I might recommend. Here it is folks, one of the many coveted lighting pieces by Lindsey Adelman Studio.

Here are some other lighting lusts:

Michael Anastassiades Studio

Lindsey Adelman Studio

Roll & Hill

Tobias Wong chandelier

wall sconces by Bocci

Hot for Summer

2011-07-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

There are innumerable things that I love about summer. I actually don't mind being really hot sometimes. Today is so hot that my brain has become liquid. Not cool, slushy liquid; it's more like a substance with the viscosity of molasses. Like melting tar in the city heat. I'm envisioning some cool breezes lulling me while I lounge in these cool new items.

Above from Anthropologie

All above from Serena & Lily Bazaar

The new things at West Elm are pretty great.

Wave pillow by Allegra Hicks

I love this lamp. It's mid-century vibe is right up my alley. The touch of gold at the base gives it some sheen and makes it look vintage.

Haven't seen this in person, but I like that it's a white washed African style stool that could be great in the beach house.

hunting and gathering

2011-07-14T16:45:00.000-07:00

A few new purchases here that I am loving!
Acquired at Acquire:

I got seven of these babies. They screw directly into the wall. They are thin ceramic eggs painted gold or silver inside. I haven't yet decided where to install them.

These blue agate coasters are stunning. Also from the fabulous Acquire in the North End of Boston. They demand a pretty glass atop, or none at all.

Picked this up on sale at Anthro. I think I've mentioned my attraction to zig zags.

Spotted this at a recent visit to Material Objects in Jamesport. I really love the glass disks. It's got a farmhouse vibe with elegance and whimsy. Anyone looking for me to decorate their farmhouse? In Shelter Island, perhaps?

Please?

Window treatment?

2011-07-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

I have been putting off window treatments in Isabel's room. I am not exactly sure what look to go after. In a past post I talked about the Moroccan pelmet idea (getting into the spirit). The poor windows really could use something. Here is what one looks like with a simple roller shade for privacy:

I just spotted these on Crate & Barrel's website:

I love the zig zag, of course. I'm stripe and chevron obsessed.

It's a problem.

I'm considering store bought as it could provide some instant gratification.

Another consideration:

In this color way from Anthropologie:

Any thoughts?

before and after fireplace

2011-07-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Before:

After:

Current obsessions

2011-06-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

Baskets!
We rent a cottage, the "Sandbox," that is not much larger than one. We dub our weekends at Sandbox: "glorified camping."

This is our view - you would go too!

We have no space or closets to speak of. All this is fine because we live outside on the beach. The way I see it, beach life should require interior square footage to be limited. Stay outside! See what happened to the Hamptons? Sagaponack is filled with mega- mansions pumped with central air. I am sure everyone's blow out is not frizzed, but can they smell the salt air? I mean, why come to the beach?

I digress. Without closet space and with two, dare I say it, almost teens, some space is sought after. At least for laundry and towels.
I am all about baskets. Not original, I know. Living in a cottage for a few days means 3 towels per person somehow, and at least two changes of clothes for all. After a day, we would be up to our knees in laundry (without any way to do said laundry). While baskets take up valuable floor space, they also can add charm, texture and the beachy touch that I love.

Here are a few of the things that I can't get enough of:

From West Elm:

One of these lives in Boston in the dressing room. I liked it so much I got another.

Have the squat one in our Boston master bath for towels. It slides below our floating vanity for some texture in the modern space. Plus, my black stripe obsession was satisfied.

Just ordered one of these for shoes at the front door, or it will come to Orient for towels.

From the Container Store:

Got one of these for magazines. It also comes in a super washed out driftwood color.

Used the blue version of this basket in a client's child's bath. It's super cute to store back-up soap & shampoo.

Grabbed a few of these for no better reason than I love B&W stripes. I used them in Boston master closet to store blankets, pillows and off season sweaters. I want more for Orient, but I am undergoing hypnosis to restrain the urge.

Looks good though!

Just in time for summer

2011-06-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

New window treatments in the living room to keep it cool, allow for privacy, and give it a finished look. Off white burlap Roman shades:

In the dressing room, natural sheer linen lined Roman shades:

Also added, a new light in the dressing room:

Want to share our great find in Greenport, Long Island from a few weekends ago.

New bedside tables:

Hers...and....His

project progress

2011-06-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to install the master bedroom in a project that I've been working on. The painting is almost done. We've gone with a great dark trim with just enough sheen. It's a soft grey-brown called Iron Gate. Getting the ceiling color was a challenge. It started with silver, pewter metallic and now we have a very fresh soft blue. Ceiling paint is tricky. It does not reflect light the way walls do and you can be very surprised by what you get.
Sneak peek:

I'll post more pictures when it's all installed.

For the same project, we found this fabulous carpet for the living room:

It's so very happy. The palette is surprisingly cheery.

There is a definite dark & light side.

Stair runner installed.

Missed this one in my before & after post. A favorite re-upholstery job on a super lovely antique chair.

first cook out of the season

2011-05-26T06:07:00.000-07:00

At long last the rain had given way to blue skies, warm temps and with that, my plumber arrived to hook up the gas to my outdoor grill. Yes!

A simple meal of turkey burgers, steamed green beans, bib lettuce salad and roasted potatoes tasted better outside under our new pergola. While it's not complete yet, it's starting to look great out there.

The mahogany was placed horizontally to create a more mod- Cali vibe. We are waiting on the planters filled with bamboo to line this back wall. A great view from the kitchen. When it is uplight at night, it will be beautiful. The fire pit awaits ethanol inserts and some lava stone for evening ambiance.

The beautiful modern pergola adds privacy and dimension to our eating area. Picture vines growing and a string of lights. Festive & romantic.

We moved the existing dogwood. I pray it survives all the torture it went through during reno.

Gravel ground a la Paris' Tuileries Garden.

You know, but a bit smaller.

View from the kitchen.

more before and after!

2011-05-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

This is a re-worked child's bedroom as she grows up and welcomes a pair of siblings.

Before:

After:

This is an area previously unused outside a new nursery:

Before:

After:

Some new upholstery.

Before:

After:

Before:

After (en scene):