love a library

I have ALWAYS wanted a home that had a library.  Every time I see a room with walls lined in books, I swoon.

Moving to the "country house," as I like to call this suburban abode, has given me just that.  It's a small in-between room that previous owners have added a floor-to-ceiling book case.  The wood finish was not exactly my favorite.  Before pic:

Immediately when I entered, I knew I wanted to paint out all the walls, trim detail and bookcases the same color.  I toyed with a few historic colors and settled on Farrow & Ball Card Room Green.  I wanted it to feel like an old English library or sitting room.
Here is what it looked like before:

And now... how cozy and fun! 

A few things to note.  I plan to install inexpensive roller bamboo shades.  I am also waiting on the carpet installer to put in wall-to-wall sisal.  I thought it would be done by now, but you know how that goes.

Last and (most important) is changing out the hideous sconces.  I want a great looking brass library sconce.  This, however, has fallen into the "not immediately necessary!" category.  I'll wait to find a great deal or wait until the coffers have been replenished.

*I do realize that the pictures in this post are particularly bad.  The room looks best in the evening, but my iPhone refuses to capture the magic.  For you readers and potential clients: This room rocks in person.  I have not given it justice in these pictures.  It will be better when complete.)

Lenny Kravitz for Kartell

Interesting find on coolhunting.  

Jason Wu for Canvas

Spotted this on another blog (thanks Habitually Chic!) & I am very excited to spread the word.  I quickly checked out Vogue.com, which I should read rather than waiting for the paper tome to drop through my mail slot.  The Jason Wu/Canvas Collaboration is just excellent & I can't wait to get my hands on some of the pieces.
I especially love the tapered legs & brass details.

Photos by Evan Sung for Vogue

roman thomas

It's been a while since I've visited the beautiful Roman Thomas showroom.  I am hoping I get to do so sometime soon for new projects.  They make such elegant furniture.

Wing chairs

I'm on the hunt for a wing chair.  I like a modern interpretation of the classic library seat.  I've always really admired this one by Victoria Hagan:

And these:

Another pretty choice from Baker:

A few in situ:

I gravitate toward a modern mid-century vibe:

I see the classic egg chair by Arne Jacobsen as modernists' take on the wing.  If money were no object, I would opt for this one.  I could sit in it for hours with a good book.

It's also lovely in supple leather which works it that "library" application.

Some pretty house shots

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. 

corner office

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.