Iconic Vladimir Kagan Furniture
VLADIMIR KAGAN FURNITURE PIECES UNLIKE ANYTHING ELSE
Vladimir Kagan was born in Germany in 1927 and moved to the U.S in 1938. He studied architecture at Columbia University before joining his father, a master cabinetmaker, to apprentice in his woodworking shop and learn the essentials of furniture design from the ground up. Vladimir combined his innovative thinking and technical skills to develop furniture designs, unlike anything imagined before him. Vladimir took inspiration from the new ideology of modern design while resisting geometry in favor of organic forms, which he infused with a signatures Kagan flair. After a prolific career spanning nearly 70 years, Vladimir passed away on April 7th of 2016, at 88 years old.
Source: Todd Merrill Studio
An outstanding custom wing desk rendered in Koa wood and acrylic with patinated brass hardware, its curved form floats on a Lucite base. Giving happiness to its appearance, the other end of the desk rests upon the adjacent cabinet, fitted with drawers and shelves for ample storage.
Source: New York Times
His serpentine sofa, perhaps the best known of all Mr. Kagan’s creations, is an armless, curvilinear swoosh of a thing, often upholstered in velvet.
Source: Vladimir Kagan
We love the modular chaise lounge by Vladimir Kagan. The chaise lounge becomes an intimate love-seat, perfect for conversation. Featuring rounded lines and a cantilevered foot. These elegant and modern designs epitomize Kagan’s organic and sleek iconic furniture.
Source: Contemporist
The Vladimir Kagan/Ralph Pucci collaboration on the making of the fiberglass chair was born out of a simple conversation and viewing of sketches of Kagan’s 1950’s designs in a variety of materials, including fiberglass that was never developed. Vladimir Kagan had always wanted to do a plastic chair, as his designs were so ideally suited for the medium.
Source: Chairish
We love these pair of nesting tables! Especially the curved Lucite bases with Formica laminate tops, and burled maple pattern.
Source: 1st Dibs
Their sensual curves and sculptural beauty define Vladimir Kagan's iconic furniture designs. Early commissions included the Delegate’s Cocktail Lounges for the first United Nations Headquarters in Lake Success, N.Y.
Source: 1st Dibs
We love this sleek modern design of this innovative cubist table, making this piece as relevant and prominent today as it was when first issued. It is constructed of mainly rosewood, chrome, and glass. The versatility of this Vladimir Kagan furniture piece allows for it to be used as a compact glass table, or fully extended to become a dining or conference table.
Source: 1st Dibs
Love this fabulous Vladimir Kagan Cloud Sofa in the original Aqua Suede Upholstery. This sofa is exquisite! From the curved chrome feet to the swooping backrest, this is a perfect statement sofa for any style space!
Source: 1st Dibs
How unique is this roll-top writing desk in oak with Lucite legs and a leather writing surface? The desk features a tambour roll top concealing a red leather writing surface and letter organizer.
Source: Incollect
One of our favorites! This Midcentury Modern coffee table has a unique snail-like walnut base and glass surface designed by Kagan for Selig circa 1950s.
Source: 1st Dibs
Fabulous! Vladimir Kagan “Crescent” swivel lounge chairs. This chair makes for a great 1960s vintage designer piece.
Source: 1st Dibs
Vladimir Kagan was a very innovative and creative thinker! This outstanding Sofa with Lucite legs and floating rosewood side tables demonstrates it all.
Source: 1st Dibs
Vladimir Kagan Lucite armchairs with brass detail. Holly Hunt Great Outdoors aqua velvet.
This classic coffee table is the perfect example of Kagan’s approach to design. It has a sculptural dark walnut base, which gorgeously supports a pristine kidney-shaped glass top.
Source: Vladimir Kagan
Kagan for directional lounge chair! Upholstered in Holly Hunt great plains “Deep in Thought” fabric. Rosewood plinth bases with a return swivel mechanism.
Source: Vladimir Kagan
WOW! Love this fifth avenue angled Kagan sofa.
For more information on how to incorporate stunning pieces such as these and others into your interior design project, contact the Dream by MJS Interiors team!
Showroom Tips from Ladco Design Center
THE LUXURY OF LADCO LIVING ROOM DESIGN
We took an adventure to the Ladco Design Center and spotted some spectacular pieces! The showroom offers a vast array of hip, urban, and trendy collections. Ladco displays fully furnished living rooms to dining sets and much more. Since living rooms are often considered the focal point of the home, choose colors that will be welcoming and appealing to guests. When picking living room sets to fit your style, decide the kind of ambiance you want to create. Earthy tones and neutral shades offer relaxing environments, while bold reds and navy blues add attention-grabbing accents.
Since living rooms are often considered the focal point of the home, choose colors that will be welcoming and appealing to guests.
Several elegantly crafted wood, glass and metal tables are offered with complimentary chairs, the chairs feature high-quality upholstery. Rich, deep hues or light, softer colors will adorn each piece in your dining set, all while adding to a modern, contemporary, traditional or casual design scheme. Come see us here at Dream and let's take a trip to Ladco together!
Source: Ladco Design Center
We love the swirl pattern on these cubed ottomans, along with the unique base!
Source: Ladco Design Center
This modernized nightstand and lamp uniquely complement the bed frame.
Source: Ladco Design Center
This bedroom bench tucks away beautifully at the foot of the bed, and the bench is elegant and efficient!
Source: Ladco Design Center
Love this sideboard’s finishing detail, formal and elegant all in one!
Source: Ladco Design Center
These faux burled finished nesting tables are a great accent for a living space!
Source: Ladco Design Center
How fun is this cut velvet, giraffe patterned accent chair!
Source: Ladco Design Center
This occasional chair has an elaborate rolled backing, very formal and masculine!
Source: Ladco Design Center
Ladco has the comfiest assortment of sofas, this cream sectional sofa accented with gold pillows creates a sophisticated look and its chaise lounge section adds function.
Source: Ladco Design Center
Who doesn’t love accessories? These silver polished eclectic bowls reflect the light, creating a bright and airy space.
Source: Ladco Design Center
Love this deep, comfy, transitional swivel chair!
Source: Ladco Design Center
In this space, the rug truly seems to compliment all furnishings, the cowhide softens the hard edges of the furniture.
Source: Ladco Design Center
Ladco is home for beautiful accent chairs, like this blue-green channel upholstered chair!
Source: Ladco Design Center
Love this displayed living room set up, the design is timeless and transitional!
Love this lattice patterned accent chair, the geometric forms and pop of orange is a great way to spunk up a living room design.
Source: Ladco Design Center
This houndstooth area rug is vibrant in texture and takes on iconic style in over-scaled proportions!
Contact Dream by MJS Interiors if you are wanting help finding the perfect living room design pieces for your space!
2017 Sofa Designs
OUR FAVORITES FOR SOFA DESIGN IN 2017
Sofa designs in 2017 range from chic to some of the most comfortable sitting spaces you’ll ever feel. Sofas should be a perfect companion to share all your tensed moments while also making you feel relaxed. A sofa is a significant investment in your living room design. They come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors that ultimately serve as statement pieces. The key is finding all the design features in one that suite your needs to create a functional, stylish, and comfortable space. It’s all in the mood!
Source: Bernhardt
The Baldwin Sofa with Down-Blend Cushions by Bernhardt Interiors provides the perfect balance of sophisticated design and unmatched comfort. This sofa features sleek straight arms, unique metal legs, and extra comfy down-blend seat cushions.
Source: Theodore Alexander
This mid-century modern Abode sofa is upholstered to a curve, featuring a buttoned tight back and seat. This sofa is raised on splayed mahogany feet with brass cappings. The apostrophe arms make a dramatic statement!
Source: Roche Bobois
This sofa, designed by Lili Castilla, was envisaged as an asymmetrical sculpture. Through a subtle movement, it rests on a single point, complemented by an integrated wooden tray, which can be used as additional seating.
Source: All Modern
The Rocket loveseat is the perfect update of mid-century modern. The refreshing pops of red hues add a retro touch as the pecan wood finish creates a natural tone.
Source: Nella Vetrina
This Mambo luxury Italian sofa is sleekly streamlined, with curved, shelter-style arms and a waterfall seat cushion, this elegant sofa recalls the sculptural forms of mid-century Italian design.
Source: Houzz
The Alice Modern Loveseat is a modern geometric metal frame design. This piece will add a bit of chic sophistication to any room with this beautiful furnishing.
Source: Kardiel
Designer Eleanor, successfully combined both comfortable seatings with exceptional aesthetics into this mid-century modern sofa. The comb, sleek rectangular shapes are represented in the design of both the seat and frame.
Source: Sofa
The asymmetrical corner sofa in denim creates a sophisticated yet laid back living room. The size and comfort make it the perfect place for the whole family to pile upon on a lazy Sunday morning!
Source: Jonathan Adler
The pared-down geometry in polished brass meets navy velvet on this sofa. A little bit ’70s, and a lot today!
Source: Interlude Home
This chaise is always ready for its close-up in either left or right; a dramatic sofa with organic curves is always stylish! Great for a formal or informal living space.
Source: One Kings Lane
This wonderfully tactile linen upholstery complements the sleek mid-century modern lines of this sectional. The ample cushioning and generous proportions ensure maximum comfort.
Contact Dream by MJS Interiors today to schedule a consultation to design your perfect living room!
Illuminating Outdoor Lighting
UNIQUE OUTDOOR LIGHTING IDEAS
We believe that outdoor living spaces deserve stylish lighting. With the spring season, just around the corner, you may be wondering how to liven up your home’s exterior spaces with unique outdoor lighting ideas. To create unique outdoor lighting, you must combine the beauty with the practical to create something merely incredible. No part of your exterior lighting should serve only one purpose. Your outdoor lighting should serve as many purposes as physically possible. You can choose creative outdoor lighting fixtures that perfectly fit the look of your home and your style.
Source: Modern Artifax
This mid-century chandelier features a “sputnik” design with adjustable arms allowing you to customize the light for just the right look.
Source: Wine Country Craftsman
The Atom Colossus is a large-scale pendant light made from hand-bent, recycled wine barrel rings. It looks striking hanging alone or hang it in a group at varying heights for maximum impact. Great look for a rustic outdoor space!
Source: Y Lighting
The woven shade surrounds a polyethylene globe, allowing a subtle, diffused glow to pass through. This fixture is a fabulous addition to any tranquil outdoor setting.
Source: Y Lighting
This Divergent outdoor pendant light adds a modern flair to outdoor spaces. The three metal rods descend from a circular canopy and split into six socket sections that create the perfect ambient lighting.
Source: Savoy House
This chic-rustic outdoor chandelier will bring stylish illumination to any outdoor space. The aged authenticity and two-tone appeal is a fantastic detail. The glass cylinder shades protecting the exposed bulbs add to the romantic charm of this outdoor pendant.
Source: Elk Lighting
This beautiful, elegant pendant exhibits slender lines and curved seeded glass to provide a fresh update to outdoor settings. This pendant would look lovely mounted by an elegant outdoor dining space.
Source: Front Gate
Why not! Bring indoor lighting outdoors with this glamorous crystal chandelier. Its high-impact design laces together bronze powder-coated steel with multi-faceted crystals in a perfect globe shape.
Source: Front Gate
This handcrafted coil aluminum that surrounds the light source of this Tourbillion piece would look fantastic centered above a wicker sofa on a patio overlooking the pool.
Source: Feiss
Both industrial and nautical design inspires this outdoor pendant. This pendant makes a style statement that is equally suited for use indoors or out.
Source: Savoy House
The Dunbar 5-light chandelier will brighten up your home with its eye-catching industrial style. Ovals of clear glass protect and showcase mesh inner shades. A two-tone warm brass finish with bronze accents adds depth.
Source: Houzz
Why not? Add a glow of fun and festive light to your outdoor space with these pure garden outdoor solar Chinese lanterns.
Source: Houzz
How creative is this exterior Mason Jar sconce? The wonderful, unique outdoor lighting design will be a focal point to any outdoor space. The vintage quart mason jar has all its original history and ‘age’ marks, featuring both the original wire-bail and raised lettering.
Modern Outdoor Furniture Finds
OUTDOOR MODERN FURNITURE THAT FLOWS PERFECTLY WITH THE PATIO
As spring approaches, we begin thinking of outdoor projects and gatherings that involve the patio. The gentle temperatures of spring draw us outside to plant seeds and pot new plants. Patios come in all shapes and sizes, but the nicest ones are the ones that have been planned for comfort and flow. Knowing how you tend to use the outdoor space will help with furnishing your patio for maximum comfort and style. Well-made, sturdy, stylish patio furniture is the key because fine furnishings really can transform your patio into the best room “in the house.” Here are some of our favorites!!
Source: Castellel Luxury
This Solaris sling outdoor dining rocker chair is handcrafted with an ultra-modern aesthetic appeal.
Source: Castelle Luxury
The Eclipse sectional left armchair creates true outdoor luxury from a unique perspective.
This sleek contour design integrates straight lines with unique slopes and curves. Perfect for an outdoor dining space!
Source: Brown Jordan
Source: Janus et Cie
The superior comfort and remarkable lightness in this design are distinctive, elegant, and pure.
Source: Ebel Incorporated
The versatile and sleek chaise lounge is a clean and comfortable way to enjoy any outdoor setting.
Source: Ebel Incorporated
This aluminum table will impress you with an eye-catching accent of its wood grain finish.
Source: Trees and Trends
The upholstered chair addresses the trend in the marketplace of solid shapes and forms created with fabric also, softening the look of an outdoor environment.
Source: Dedon
The Dedon contemporary “Nestrest” lounger by designers Daniel Pouzet and Fred Frety is a suspended sanctuary, rocking to and fro in the cool summer breeze. The specialized Dedon weave fiber is durable and breathable.
Source: Dream by MJS Interiors
Wow! Simplicity and elegance in one. How about this lovely outdoor braided wicker tub back chair! Featuring the loose reversible tufted interior button cushioning.
Source: Dedon
This orbit love seat by Dedon is a timeless design with generous proportions, easy mobility, and meticulous hand-craftsmanship. It never go out of style.
Source: Dedon
The Dedon Babylon side table is characterized by its ribbed, asymmetrical, seemingly collapsing forms, a brilliant accessory to pull together an outdoor space.
Source: Dedon
This traditional chunky woven wicker armchair and the plush cushion is perfect for large outdoor spaces such as pool areas, restaurants, and even an intimate setting.
Source: John Himmel
French designer Frida Minet inspires the John Himmel rope collection. The material used to create the Cap Ferrat Modernist style sofa is palm fronds, which are harvested from Indonesia, and then hand braided. The versatile design is offered for both indoor and outdoor.
Source: Dedon
A remarkable outdoor sofa swing from Dedon offering a combination of comfort, quality, and style. SWINGREST is the ultimate hanging sofa, perfect for suspending on a terrace or veranda, or even indoors.
Source: Sutherland
The Camano Yachting Lounge Chair is offered in a vast array of powder-coated finishes along with teak finishes. A perfect piece to sit on the dock as the boats make way!
Source: Sutherland
Inspired by the great camps of upstate NYC, this outdoor Adirondack chair is rustic, sophisticated, and luxurious all in one.
Source: Dedon
This outdoor rocker lounge chair wrapped in Dedon fiber placed on a solid teak base is ideal for any poolside occasion. The optional footstool captures the spirit of barefoot luxury.
Source: Dedon
Who wouldn’t like swaying in the cool breeze on a beautiful summer day in this? Dedons iconic “Swing Me” lounge chair is fantastic! The thick cushions ensure maximum comfort from this minimalist design.
Source: Dream by MJS Interiors
Love this powder-coated aluminum outdoor chair with the loose cushion, complimented by the teak splats.
2017 Home Decor Fabric Trends
HOME DECOR FABRIC TRENDS 2017 – FROM THE CALMING AND SERENE TO THE BOLD & VIBRANT
Home decor fabric trends in 2017 are in full swing. Cushions and pillows are the best way to add color and personality to your patio set. Bold prints and patterns with contrasting colors and abstract geometric shapes are in!
- A. Dedon- Paisley Spice PSP
- B. Dedon- Paisley Stone PST
- C. Dedon- Paisley Colibri PCO
- D. Dedon- Paisley Atlantic PAT
Hello, yellow! A bright, happy color can’t help but bring a smile to your face. To make the color pop even more, pair it with a soft neutral, such as gray or white.
- A. Perennials 775-208 Pumice
- B. Perennials 979-224 Chalk
- C. Perennials 723-220 Pelican
- D. Windsor Smith for Kravet 31788-40 Lemon Drop
- E. Groundworks for Kelly Wearstler GWF-3424 18 Smoke
- F. Clodagh for Perennials 210-245 Fawn
- G. Perennials 685-296 Nickel
- H. Groundworks Solarium GWF-3426 116 Shoreline
A vibrant orange fabric will create an instant energizer for an outdoor space.
- A. Windsor Smith for Kravet 31724-1 Kelp
- B. Duralee 15710 36 Orange
- C. Lulu Dk 32201LD Bailey LD 6 Salmon
- D. Pindler 4291 Isola Firecracker
- E. Duralee 15430 36 Orange
- F. Groundwork Solarium GWF-3321 24 Avignon Chevron Spice
Nautical Navy is one of the hottest “new neutrals.”
- A. Ralph Lauren LCF64785F Surf Break Stripe Pacific
- B. Ralph Lauren LCF64765F Boaters Oxford Pacific
- C. Perennials 770-501 Blue Jean
- D. Ralph Lauren LFY66683F Pierre Ottoman Navy/White
- E. Kravet 31818-101 Sea Salt
Just like the sky itself, these shades of blue-greens have a serene, calming presence, perfect for an outdoor living space.
- A. Perennials 835-272 Herb Garden
- B. Groundworks Solarium for Kelly Wearstler GWF-3419 15 Breakwater Robins Egg
- C. Kravet Soleil 33378-15
- D. Lee Jofa Solarium 2013105 13 Seaglass
- E. Lee Jofa Solarium 2013107 13 Sultans Tracery Pool
- F. Perennials 778-123 Sea Foam
- G. Perennials 974-324 Eggshell
- H. Perennials 600-249 Sprout
These refreshing blue tones call to mind a change of outdoor scenery!
- A. Perennials 942-09 Poolside
- B. Duralee DW16052 152 Wheat
- C. Perennials 675-212 Dragonfly
- D. Kravet 28046-415 Riviera
These neutrals are timeless and beachy!
- A. Perennials 955-294 Bronze
- B. Clodagh for Perennials 210-224 Chalk
- C. Perennials 745-264 Olive
- D. Barclay Butera for Kravet 31801-1 Oyster
- E. Kravet 33385-106
- F. Thibaut W80263 Juno
- G. Kravet 28047-1116 Dune
- H. Perennials 915-102 Dove
- I. Duralee 15713 Brown 10
A perfect mixture of vitality and relaxation for the great outdoors!
- A. Perennials 974-102 Dove
- B. Pindler 5648 Luann Lemon
- C. Pindler 5565 Carver Cornsilk
- D. Perennials 977-28 Blanca
- E. Perennials 955-255 Topaz
The crisp assorted shades of dark grey are soothing and comfy!
- A. Perennials 865-07 Platinum
- B. Pindler 5834 Trezza Charcoal
- C. Lulu DK 65008-02 Stone
- D. Perennials 670-317 Grey Hills
- E. Pindler 5832 Adesso Dove
- F. Perennials 950-296 Nickel
- G. Pindler 5833 Sarto Smoke
Love that so many other colors work perfectly with gray and how it can go cool or warm, another stellar representation of home decor fabric trends in 2017.
- A. Perennials 974-296 Nickel
- B. Pindler 4953 Barnhart Grey
- C. Lulu DK 65004LD Lucia LD 2 Soft Grey
- D. Pindler 5834 Trezza Silver
- E. Thibaut W80369 Zephyr
- F. Pindler 5832 Adesso Oyster
2017 Outdoor Pool & Kitchen Design Trends
OUTDOOR POOL DESIGN & KITCHEN DESIGN
Source: Kalamazoo Gourmet
This year-round fully functional outdoor gourmet kitchen features Kalamazoo appliances and products. The kitchen is outfitted with a pizza oven and a gas grill that cooks with both charcoal and wood. Perfect space for informal family cookouts and dinner parties, right in line with outdoor pool and kitchen trends for 2017!
Source: Viking Professional
The Viking Professional outdoor products offer everything you’d expect to find in an outdoor kitchen, except the walls. Every product works together in form and function with the same level of excellence. The choices are virtually limitless to ensure you find the exact look you’re aiming for.
Source: Houzz
Allow your imagination to run wild with this outdoor pool design! These remotely powered gas fire pits are crafted from a vast and exciting array of materials in an ever-expanding palette of colors, shapes, textures, and finishes.
Source: Brown Jordan
An outdoor fire pit by the pool is the perfect solution for those that love to entertain, the perfect centerpiece for this relaxing space. The space is complemented with functional furniture for added convenience.
Source: Brown Jordan
Divulge the freedom to create an outdoor kitchen in any configuration with unique layouts, colors, and wood grain finishes.
Source: Houzz
The gorgeous mix of fire and water is making a big statement this year. Fire features like fire bowls, fire orbs, and fireplaces built right into pools create a wonderful play on the elements.
Source: Grillery
The grillworks 42 is a star wood firing grill for any backyard. The cast aluminum crank wheels allow the chef to adjust the height of the cooking surface with the rise and fall of the flames.
Source: Fornetto
This outstanding, dual-purpose wood-fired brick oven and smoker is top of the line for a stunning outdoor gourmet setup by Alfresco Home and is among the sleekest of the outdoor pool and kitchen design trends in 2017.
Source: PlantNJ
The masculine, vertically designed free-standing outdoor kitchen setup delivers mouthwatering meats, poultry, fish, and vegetables as well as authentic baked pizzas, bread, and desserts. The heated excitement gets intense!
Source: DS Fine Home Building
What could be better than a year-round outdoor kitchen? The beautiful wood-beam overhang keeps the direct sunlight out of your cooking arena. Featuring a classic wood-burning oven along with a neighboring gas grill.
Source: Home Design Lover
Fire effects and lighting provide a dramatic flair to this traditional pool, great for evening entertainment! LEDs are environmentally friendly and can be incorporated as an economical way to add spotlights, highlights, and color features to your pool area.
Source: Dwelling Decor
A fire pit with corner round seating decorated with cushions and pillows to add color and personality to the space. Bold prints and patterns with contrasting colors and abstract geometric shapes are in!
Source: Real Estate Australia
The wet-edged pool is excellent for a level changing backyard. The aquatic glass tile makes a dramatic statement to the pool. Wet-edge pools are easy to clean; any leaf litter that accumulates runs straight off the edge and into the lower reservoir.
Source: News On Air
Travertine stone is taking over as the preferred decking material for outdoor pool design. This beautiful natural stone provides a non-slip, durable surface and stays cool under the blazing hot sun.
Source: Pinterest
Tanning ledges are in! They allow you to stay cool during the hot summer days by providing just enough water to still “lay out” without completely submerging yourself in the water. Grass around the pool is never a good thing, but this well-manicured grass between the pavers is brilliant!
Our Favorite Outdoor Spaces
AN OASIS OF OUTDOOR INTERIOR DESIGN
Source/Link: Homed It
Get your table right, and the rest of the furniture should fall into place. This whitewashed trunk makes for a wonderful coffee table. Elegant white drapery formalizes the space, just a bit to off-set the casual, relaxed vibe of the area. The sliced in half wine barrels make the perfect rustic end tables.
Source: My Domaine
This creative, airy, eclectic outdoor space is covered with bamboo stalks creating the inside/outside vibe. The organic, inspired, woven pendant light creates a sense of balance. The mix of resin wicker and cool blue tones makes for a beautiful space with a multitude of textures and colors.
Source: Ciao Newport Beach
There are many ways to add texture and pattern without going overboard on colors. The horizontal patterning on the brick offers a basis for furniture selections, as simple as the wooden table centered with wrought iron high-armed chairs. The mirror is the perfect complement to the rustic brick fireplace. Such a gorgeous outdoor room!
Source: Style Curator
Fun patio with a u-shaped wooden sectional topped with a variety of striped and solid pillows. Strung with a cluster of low hanging string lights. Centered with an oversize solid ottoman prepared with candlelit glass lanterns, and a hint of nature accented by the potted plant. This is an example of an outdoor interior design that is a perfect setting for socializing!
Source: Style Estate
Brick, wood, and metal form geometric shapes, adding hard edges to the space. The outdoor fireplace offers an organizing focal point, but the low-slung proportions of the furniture supply a unique profile. Can you imagine sitting under the aluminum roof during a thunderstorm? How relaxing!
Source: Rue Mag
The weathered-teak chair and white cushioned bench blend, allowing inter-playing textures of metal, wood, plants, and stone take center stage. Outdoor lights remain a perennial favorite in this outdoor space. They’re celebratory and fun, with just enough sparkle to keep the light from being distracting.
Source: Architectural Digest
Beautiful blue covered wicker armchairs, flanked by matching white ottomans. To gather the space, a carriage lantern is hung from the cladded ceiling alongside a ceiling fan, centered above a weathered teak coffee table.
Source: Mountain Modern Life
The outdoor living space has distinctive purple Moroccan lanterns hung from the wooden pergola, offering a visual variety overhead. The wicker sectional is complemented with purple pillows surrounding a purple skirted ottoman over a striped black, blue and white outdoor rug.
Source: Mochatini
Symmetry is an oft-used design principle. It’s pleasing to the eyes, complementary to a variety of styles, and fairly easy to implement. This traditional covered outdoor patio is complimented with warm beige tones. The hard-working textural rug underfoot supplies both function and beauty.
Source: Traditional Home
The large elm farm table with sleek-lined legs creates an invitation. The blue tub back chairs in this outdoor interior design bring a fabulous sense of form to the atmosphere.
Source: Pinterest
This unique industrial, yet classical outdoor space creates a cool, calm, and collective ambiance.
Source: Mochatini
As the steps lead into the sunken traditional patio, the natural wood, stone, and woven end tables turn up the warmth factor.
Exploring Antiques in New Orleans
THE FRENCH QUARTER IS HOME TO SOME OF THE RICHEST HISTORY AND FINEST ANTIQUES IN NEW ORLEANS
We made a recent trip to the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans to capture the spirit and appreciate the culture. The French Quarter is also known as Vieux Carre’, which translates to Old Square. While it does have the age part right, there is certainly nothing “square” about it. The place is alive and has a certain Je Nais Sais Quo that captures your imagination. There really isn’t anything like it in the country.
- The streets of the French Quarter always alive with activity. A street Jazz quartet provides a backdrop for brunches.
- The Supreme Court building located in the French Quarter is one of the most beautiful in the area. It is probably the best example of the Beaux-Arts style in all of New Orleans. Look at the detail!
- The illustrious Cabildo building was formerly a seat of government. It housed the city council and is the site where the Louisiana Purchase transfer ceremonies took place. It is now used as a museum and is considered a national landmark.
- Ida Manheim Antiques is located at 409 Royal St. It is a world-renowned gallery and an authority in many periods and styles. 3 generations of expertise and knowledge are evident in curation and buying. They have a jaw-dropping inventory, including this monumental 18th Century Flame Grain mahogany cabinet. It is a magnificent piece of Dutch provenance.
- An elaborately carved giltwood mirror is from the Louis XV period. The level of detail found in some of these 18th Century pieces is mind-blowing. Keeping it company is an English antique of exceptional quality. The mahogany sideboard with satinwood inlays is from the George III period.
- Circa 1810, a very rare First Empire Period Marble Specimen Table, maintains its original base. 43” of WOW.
- A beautiful early Victorian Coromandel library table with Palm Cross banding. Very Rare, circa 1845.
- We also stopped by another French Quarter institution, M.S. Rau Antiques. It is located at 630 Royal St. This gallery has been open for more than 100 years and is considered a landmark and a must-visit for serious collectors. The extensive selection is full of unique and very rare items. This Victorian-era Jockey Scale is a personal favorite. It was crafted by the British firm of W & T Avery of Birmingham, a premier manufacturer of measurement devices of the time. Excellent piece of Horse Racing history for any of you well-heeled equestrians.
- The intricately carved gilded base of a console table is breathtaking. It was housed in a castle in Scotland belonging to the Earl of Kinnoull. The majestic eagle supports a verde antico and rosso marble top, very much in the manner of William Kent. It really captures the grand style of the Palladian era.
- Arnaud's has been open since 1918, and it is a bastion of Creole cuisine. The tin roof, tile floor, and bentwood chairs all contribute to the charming ambiance. Jazz brunch is highly recommended!
David Hicks Design
A DIVE INTO THE WORLD OF DAVID HICKS DESIGN
“If I have been able to influence in some small way an important aspect of everyone’s environment, then it has been worth the hard work that I have put into trying to lead people away from drabness, safeness and conventional solutions” – David Hicks
If you have ever seen Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, you might remember a particularly arresting Steadicam sequence. The shot basically follows one of the protagonists on his Big Wheel Tricycle going from corridor to corridor. It had an eerie rhythm about it, as the wheels would change from wood floor to carpet. The carpet itself is a copy of British Interior Designer David Hicks most famous pattern, Hicks’ Hexagon. As one of his era’s preeminent tastemakers, David Nightingale Hicks had an extraordinary influence and the prestigious clientele base to prove it.
“I have always had a passion for what some people consider clashing colours. I call them vibrating colours – for instance, vermilion, shocking pink, puce, salmon pink, and blue pink. I like them with aubergine. All reds go together, and I include both pink and orange in the red family.” – David Hicks
David Hicks was able to show very effectively how to use bold color, how to mix new and old together, how to use patterned carpets. This is a beautiful example of a well-lit, strong color environment he was known for creating.
With the exception of the lone table lamp left of the fireplace, all ambient lighting come from up lights. Beige, Black, and white color schemes complement each other very well. Hicks employed the use of graphic Wilton carpets to tie colors often together and dictate the mood.
Not shying from bold colors and ethnic references, Hicks had a remarkable ability to create disciplined spaces with such strong materials. The bravado in the ceiling and walls are from a North African design. Wall St. corporate raiders can channel their inner Gengis Khan.
“Tablescapes” was a term he coined to describe beautifully arranged objects. Hicks was able to take disparate items and encouraged conversations between them by arranging them into themes. This beautiful example of blues comprises of a color-refracting Perspex sculpture by Rory McEwen, lapis lazuli, pottery, enamel, and glass. A lone yellow flower in the mix alludes to yellow and blueprint found on the sofa.
His work at the Hyde Park Hotel in London captures the brand of maximalism he championed throughout his career. Vibrant colors, layering of patterns, and the occasional over the top detail like this canopy bed fixed to the ceiling.