Counterpose

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I am forever inspired by friends spaces. I was looking through Sarah’s feed and the thought occurred to me - since we have opposite color stories wouldn’t it be fun to compare them.

Let’s take a look at the elements that make up these spaces.

Sarah’s livingroom

Let’s review Sarah’s livingroom.

The Chalet Livingroom

Let’s review the Chalet livingroom.

  • Our sofa is the Montclair by Crate&Barrel which is discontinued. Purchased in the fall of 2018. The sofa was quickly replaced because of a snafu with the fabric which I was unable to have treated for stain resistance; so we opted for a high performance micro-fiber in Arctic White.

  • My pillows are a mix of store bought and ones I’ve designed. The small needlepoint is Beekman 1802 from Target years ago. The Brown Floral and Light Blue Shibori I sewed myself. The Tiger velvet is from Home Sense. The Navy and White Woven is from Marshalls.

  • The Coffee Table was found at Home Sense.

  • The side table is similar to this Wayfair one.

  • White with blue floral design vase with flowers. This piece was a gift and Little Switzerland no longer carries vases. These are lovely options.

  • The rug is the Baxter Indigo Wool from Crate&Barrel.

  • The vintage lamp was thrifted from The Lafayette Mill Antiques Center.

  • The reversible cotton quilt was located on-line years ago. Here’s are some pretty options.

  • The room’s background is: Benjamin Moore Putnam Ivory

“Counterpose: To place in Opposition, Contrast, or Equilibrium”
— Merriam-Webster

I enjoyed crafting this piece - it was fun locating the components and seeking similar ones to share with you. I highly recommend popping over to Instagram and clicking follow on Sarah’s feed. She and her home are both lovely!

Here are some articles you may enjoy!

Til next time be well friends.

Images: Sarah and Me

Conviviality, Merrymaking, Remembrance

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When I looked up the word Birthday the title words are just a few that popped up. Today I’m remembering my mom Rita on what would be her 95th birthday!

Rita taught me what a well-decorated home was. How the right accessories, art and plants transform a space. That a small lamp placed anywhere is always a yes. How to group family photographs enmasse on tables or a wall gallery style. How to turn simple fabric into a curtain swag and the immense enjoyment of shelter magazines. She really had an incredible eye.

I’m tickled to have several inherited pieces here in the Chalet.

Rita in my childhood home hosting a bridal shower for my cousin Sharon 1982

She was a delightful hostess and adored welcoming friends for any occasion. I learned that a meal doesn’t need to be complicated to be the best. She prepared the very best roast beef and her chocolate syrup recipe is fantastic. I was taught how to set an elegant table. How to pick greenery from the yard for an arrangement.

“Rita taught me to appreciate beauty. ”

My love of reading is due to her and our weekly library visits.

Before marrying Daddy she modeled and understood jewelry and shoes elevate any outfit. That you should always have these staples in your wardrobe: A basic black dress that can be worn year round, lined wool pants, leather gloves, a merino wool sweater and scarves.

My childhood home livingroom

All things I hold dear I learned from her and I count myself blessed she was my sweet, funny and beautiful mom.

Jungle Tales by James Jebusa Shannon

This painting by James Jebusa Shannon has for years held a special place in my heart. It reminded my sister of Mommy, she and I. Our mom had a copy of it.

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Rita & 1 1993

Design Departure

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Recently while thinking about my own neighborhood with its varied styles of architecture I thought about this home. This tudor was completely transformed in 2018. Built in 1930 it went through an extensive remodel on both the interior and exterior. Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate images from the prior owner.

November 2018

The front porch was enclosed and is now a gracious foyer.

Summer 2017

You can see some elements were retained. The railing and the chandelier.

Livingroom

Livingroom

The former screened in porch is now a cozy and beautifully appointed den.

Den

The black and white kitchen has stunning brass accents. Look at that door!

Kitchen

The color scheme continues in the diningroom.

Diningroom

The office was part of an addition.

Office

Principle bedroom

The principle bedroom is enveloped in this deep blue and touches of it are also found in the ensuite.

principle ensuite

There are three family bedrooms.

What a lovely view from the fireplace wall through to the den.

What do you think of older structures being given make-overs? I think this designer’s vision is wonderful. This home feels modern yet timeless.

Til next time be well!

Interior Designer: Tracy Butler / Photographer John Ferrentino