November 11, 2020

Fiery Fabrication

November 11, 2020/ Meryl

I have always loved Flame stitch fabric since my mother Rita used it in our home in the late 1970’s.

I went down a bit of a rabbit hole about the pattern recently because I plan to add some to the Chalet - the which and where TBD but, nevertheless I thought golly if I’m thrilled to learn a bit about the history then I knew I had to share it with all of you. Enjoy!

Wedding Portrait painted by Wybrand de Geest 1637

I found one of the earliest examples of it appearing in this wedding portrait from 1637. Look at the vibrancy of the chair fabric!

The pattern is known by other names — Bargello, Florentine stitch, Irish stitch, Point de Hongrie. The bold zig zag pattern looks like flames dancing that is why I only refer to it as Flame stitch.

One explanation of the pattern I found stated it may be the result of a Hungarian princess marrying into the Italian Medici family and introducing the tradition of this jagged embroidery stitch (Point de Hongrie), which merged with the straight or “brick” stitch to produce the variegated pattern so full of movement.

There is also another suggestion that it reached Europe through the Silk Road.

This room in Parham House is covered in Italian wool. The Elizabethan mansion was built in 1557 in England has exquisite examples of Flame stitch.

Clarence House Talcy Flame Stitch Velvet

How fun are these images showcasing it on the floor and ceiling!

This is a gorgeous flat bar chrome sofa from the 1970s. Original plush flame-stitch fabric in shades of green and white create a stunning visual.

I could look at variations of this pattern forever!

Til next time friends be well.

Images linked when possible.

November 04, 2020

Cozy Cocktails

November 04, 2020/ Meryl

Hello Friends during this time finding comfort in our homes and holding our own celebrations… be it a Friday night or even every night has become central to many. We want to celebrate getting through the week… say Cheers on Zoom with family - or our fellow Book Club members… we want to extol Yay we’re making it through. This week I’m sharing some very inviting home bars! Bottoms Up!

Alison Sheffield and Stephen Sheffield’s Butler Pantry

This butlers pantry is in the Cohasset MA home of Alison and Stephen Sheffield. They started a phenomenon on IG with their Friday evening Sheffield Cocktail Hour. They have amassed a loyal following - partly due to the banter between them… Alison filming while Stephen bar-tends is marvelous also their choices of libations are delicious and it’s a brilliant way to feel connected!

I have always had a fascination with drinks table - a place to stop and grab something. I don’t often have one but, I do love this spot in the diningroom

Interior Designer Jen Dulac found this gem on Facebook Marketplace - she took an old dental cabinet and transformed it into a stunning piece for her clients.

“libation - beverage especially : a drink containing alcohol ”

— Merriam-Webster

I remember the spot in my childhood home - the counter in the kitchen between the upper cabinets that held glassware and the bottom cabinet that held liquor and Daddy pulling the bottles out for parties and setting up the bar - complete with an ice bucket - oh friends - the memory of making ice for days in the old fashion ice trays to build up a reserve!

In the Chalet my glass is raised Cin Cin, Sláinte, and Skål to all of you!

I am also raising my glass in honor of my wonderful hubby who celebrates a milestone birthday this week and who makes sure I never ever run out of Prosecco - Thank you so very much - I love you HBD! xoxo

Til next time stay safe!

Images: Accounts Listed and Linked.

October 28, 2020

Boo!

October 28, 2020/ Meryl

Friends we live in a really special place. The roads are windy, it’s dark and it’s always been a fun place to Trick or Treat but, it got a whole lot funner when we sold my parents home to Marc and Andrea and they went to work - making it one of the scariest and coolest Halloween displays in the area.

While not a typical Haunted House it is very much a scene and the trick or treaters must walk past all the frightening ghouls and goblins to get their treat on the porch. The display you see is from 2019. These wonderful friends had planned to move pre-covid and sold off all the decorations after Halloween last year. They brought much joy to so many for 22 yrs! We were thrilled our son was finally able to face his fears and walk up to the door.