Old world elegance

European decorating incorporates things gathered over time. Rooms convey a sense of evolution rather than instant gratification. Pieces are handed down over generations. Materials and finishes are natural, worn and faded. Colors are often muted, sun-bleached, tea-stained. These rooms are cozy and romantic, just as one would imagine a charming hotel in the French countryside to be.

Come along for a tour of gorgeous rooms from House Beautiful and prepare to be enchanted.

I love the simplicity and earthiness of this entry. The stout but curvaceous legs of the table are reminiscent of garden furniture. The natural decor reinforces that theme. See how the lantern hangs low above the table, making it part of the tablescape. The moss-filled bowl is a sheer delight. Notice how the dining room in the background beckons.

This living room is a bit glam but manages to remain understated--not an easy feat to pull off successfully! The carved stone fireplace surround and the French doors leading to the terrace have a solid presence. All the furnishings are airy and serene.

This living room invites conversation. Notice the exotic touches mixed with more traditional elements, such as the huge chandelier reflected in the mirror and the wall sconces. And there is another stone fireplace surround. I love the bulk of this one and the extra tall mirror atop it. The palette is soothing but the overall scheme is richly textured.

This outdoor living space is just dreamy! Those graceful arched openings make me swoon. Furniture is light in material and color so as to not compete with the grand architecture.


The wood ceiling is stunning in this dining room. Observe the use of scale and the lack of additional ornamentation, which serves to make each piece more important to the overall scheme.

I am captured by the chandelier and the candelabra flanking the windows. The ornate table base is intriguing. Once again all objects in this room are largely scaled and minimal in number. This is a way to make a bold statement without being verbose.

More gorgeous wood on the ceiling. Outdoor lanterns hang over the island. The range hood, reminds me of that large stone fireplace surround in one of the living rooms I showed you. I also love the worn finish and color of the cabinerty.

This bath speaks to my soul. The soft colors, great windows, built in cabinetry, a deep soaking tub are divine.

What a luxurious bedroom! I love the subtle toile wallpaper, and I am not typically a wall-paper kind of girl. The ivory color and drape of the curtains on the bed and windows remind me of Roman robes. Notice the leggy bench in front of the window, a beauty of color and form.

The four-poster bed, chandelier and carved mirror are timeless and elegant. I love the celery green of the curtains as an accent color against the deep tones of the bed posts.

I hope you have enjoyed this tour of neutral European-style rooms, demonstrating the power of neutrals to fit into any decorating scheme.

Until next time...

Anne

Architecture 101

A colonnade...

A colonnade is defined as a half wall topped by columns that extend to the ceiling. These features add definition to rooms without sacrificing openness. They are often found in late Victorian and Craftsman era homes, usually dividing a living space from a dining space. The half walls can be simply covered in plaster (or drywall) with wood trim; more elaborate examples are paneled and trimmed in wood. The columns come in many varieties. They can be round, square, octagonal, tapered, fluted, champhered. They are surrounded by some form of base and capital (trim at the top) which matches the overall style of the columns and the room.

The images I am showing you today are of the newly-built colonnade that separates my living room from my kitchen. The base is paneled in beadboard and augmented with trim at the sides, top, and bottom to provide some depth, heft, and definition. The columns are square and trimmed with a simply detailed base and capital. The columns connect a shelf and beams that are made from reclaimed douglas fir that was originally used in a corn crib.

Lets' take a look.

This is the view as one enters from the front door, looking toward the kitchen. Notice many of the elements I have highlighted in other homes. All the furnishings are cream-colored with accents of pure white. Wood, both painted and natural, is used liberally. Off to the left is the colonnade, where the beadboard base wall and blocky trim are evident. The columns are intentionally hefty to add a sense of stability.

This is a view from the kitchen looking back toward the front door. This snapshot reveals more wood: on the island, on the living room walls, on the beams, on the cabinetry. All the white paint keeps the space light and bright. A large mirror reflects natural light into the living room. The pipe from the woodstove adds another vertical element and carries the eye upward, just as the columns do.

Another view from the living room. The colonnade frames the view into the cooking area of the kitchen. Light pours in from the triple window above the kitchen sink. The stainless steel refrigerator shimmers in the sunlight.

This is the view from the kitchen door toward the front door. Notice the black accents in the living room-- the chandelier, the pillows, the iron key hook, the woodstove. As you can see, my favotrite palette is white, black, tan, and wood. The curtains are simple panels that also add a vertical element, as do the linear grooves in the solid pine paneling.

A close-up of the colonade, with the kitchen to the right and an old buffet to the left. More accents of black and pure white are visible on the shelf above the buffet.

There you have it. I hope this has enriched your knowledge of architecture just a bit and provided you a glimpse into my own home and my decorating style.

Until next time...

Anne

Am I Blue?

Today I am in the mood for the quietest of blues: shades that call to mind a spring sky, the seaside in the rain, or mists rising off the lake in early morning. These shades, like the palest robin's egg whisper rather than speak. They provide solace for a tired mind and a weary heart.

Come along for a peek at gorgeous ways to incorporate paler shades of blue into your palette. All images here are from Better Homes and Gardens.

These simple slat chairs look gorgeous against the walnut-stained floor. They also add an outdoor element to the room. Paired with white, both hues look fresh and light as air.

The only color in this guest room comes from the painted chest of drawers. It casts a subtle glow that emanates from that corner of the room like an aura of quietude. Notice the height and grandeur of the metal bed and how it plays against the simplicity of the rest of the room.

This room is all about softness, from the bed to the curtains to the covered table in the corner. The curvy lines of the furniture reinforce the theme. What a lovely place to lie down for a luxurious afternoon nap!

Romance is just exuded from this room. Canopy beds and soft blues were my first decorating loves. This room would have been the room of my dreams when I was a young girl, with one bed for me and one for my best friend, Kelly, who frequently spent the night. The layers of fabric add more softness and comfort. Notice the gray tone of the beds against the white and cornflower blue.

This well-equipped closet appeals to my sense of order. Hints of blue keep it interesting. And notice the beadboard behind the shelves--you know about my love of beadboard!

A lovely corner of the kitchen. Here blues dominate the scene but manage to remain hushed. The yellow flowers and urn of greens punctuate the quiet here. The goblets in the cupboard are reminescent of jewels. The mini corinthian column on the counter adds a touch of whimsy.

Here is a larger view of the same pretty kitchen. The blues pair well with the maple countertop and beige tones in the cabinets and flooring. I love the openness of the upper cabinets. Removing doors keeps the room light and offers space to display pretty dishes.

I hope you have enjoyed study in blue and white. May it provide an antidote to the grayness of the day.

Until next time...

Anne

I'll take romance...

Romance...associated (in my mind, anyway) with indulgence, luxury, softness, intrigue, fantasy, sensuality. It is something that heightens the senses, makes hearts pitter-patter and breathing begin quicken. In order for romance to survive it needs nurturing and attention. It needs space to breathe and stretch its limbs. It needs fire for warmth. And it needs a nice, comfortable place to settle in and dream.

Come along and tour some of the most romantic spaces I have seen, all from Better Homes and Gradens.

This bedroom invites lingering beneath its sheer canpoy. All the elements for a perfect night of romance are here-- candles, pillows, soft lighting, layers of bedding, fresh flowers. Observe the placement of a mirror across from the bed. Overhead beams add some structure and stability, both literally and metaphorically.

The massive chandelier, with its sinuous lines and swags makes a bold statement. This room embraces feminine curves everywhere. All the furniture and accents are rounded and soft, plump even, providing a pleasing contrast to the heavy masculine beams overhead. My eye is drawn to the arched stone fireplace and the way the chandelier is reflected in the circular mirror above it.

In another view of the same room, the chandelier has dominion over the scene. Once again, notice the curving, soft lines. This is a room designed to foster relaxation and ease. It begs you to slip into something comfortable and curl up.

The large-scale furnighings and elements speak of luxury. Soft colors allow relaxation. Another chandelier and beams preside overhead. The mirror brings so much to the room, thanks to its casual style and large size. Notice the fresh flowers and the curtains framing the headboard, adding extra layers of softness and luxury.


The colors in this bedroom are simply gorgeous. There is a mix of several patterns and materials in the bedding, to keep the eye and hands engaged in running over them. The dark accents add drama. Shutters provide privacy for those quiet mements when the rest of the world just fades away. In place of a headboard, there is fabric-covered screen behind the bed.

As you can see, many of the elements that speak the language of romance are used again and again. Although the settings may differ, the same effect is the same.

I hope this inspires you to add a little touch of ooh la la to your most intimate spaces.

Until next time...

Anne

Upping the contrast for dramatic impact

In neutral color schemes, the law of opposites is indeed true. Increasing the contrast between light and dark allows each side of the tonal scale to really stand out. The old notion that without the darkness there wouldn't be light holds true in design as well as in real life.

Come with me to take a peek at some fine examples of ways to add a little drama to your life.


source: Better Homes and Gardens

This dining room illustrates ways to use both scale and color to heighten the dramatic tension in a space. The subtle backdrop of light-colored walls, trim, flooring, and decorative accents plays gracious host to the rich tones of the stained wood furniture. The oversized lantern brings in a touch of the outdoors to lend some informality to the scene. There is a clever mix of chairs around the table, with traditional wooden dining chairs and high-backed parson's chairs.

source: Elle Decor

This grand bathroom has very little added ornamentation, but is a play on contrasting themes. Notice the wood on stone, the black on white, the porcelain on stone. Dark accents keep the eye engaged. I love the large-scale secretary in a bathroom and the carved stone medallions. Unexpected surprises such as this add whimsy and delight.

source: Better Homes and Gardens

This room is all about white and wood. Even though the wood tones are more caramel than dark chocolate, they serve the same function, adding visual and textural contrast. Notice all the curvy lines found in the armoire, the column, chair backs, and table legs.

source: Elle Decor

This dining area uses the light-on-dark theme to add sophisitication. Dark colors help keep the whites from looking to sweet. The glass panes of the armoire keep the hulking piece from dominating the room. A farm table adds a homey rusticity, as do the stacks of reading material on the floor. A simple centerpiece keeps the outdoor connection intact.

source: Better Homes and Gardens

This kitchen pairs more natural wood tones with cream. The whites add freshness. The wood keeps the scene from floating away. Curtains make the kitchen feel more like a living space than just a work zone. The detail in the table apron is reminiscent of beaded board.

I hope this gives you a few ideas to add some drama to your interior spaces. We all crave a little excitement to keep us entertained, and this is a good way to satisfy that need.

Until next time...

Anne

A toast to white

I am dreaming in white...

Today I celebrate that most versatile of hues---white. Shades of white harmonize like a chords in subtle symphony. White can brighten and soothe. It can softly engage the eye, while also giving it a chance to rest. White is always classic, fresh, and elegant.

Come take a peek at different ways to use this wonderful shade inside the home. These photos from Better Homes and Gardens will provide some ideas.

This little work station set up in the entry of a home bids you welcome. These whites are on the cool side, leaning on gray. The woven basket introduces some warm contrast. The framed blackboard is a clever way to reuse an old frame. The worn paint, basket, ceramic and glass items all add texture and depth.

This living room has several contrasting materials in use, from the glass table top to the rustic wood accents. The crisply painted woodwork adds a high note to the soothing wall color. Decorations are kept to a minimum to allow the architecture to stand out.

This living space has even more white. There are dozens of shades shown here. Notice once again how the variety of textures pulls the look together and keeps thing interesting. A room like this invites comtemplation and reverie. I love the Queen Anne's Lace in the pitcher.

I am a sucker for beadboard! I would use it in every room of the house. It makes the perfect textured backdrop for worn finishes and slipcovered furnishings. The layers of softness on the sofa and chair invite one to grab a book, curl up with a pet, and while away the hours.



This cozy corner has all the elements I adore-- a sisal rug, worn paint and metal finishes, a graceful chair, a mantel for display, long drapes, candles and soothing colors. Notice the repeated circle theme--the mirror, table, candles, vases-- in this right-angled space.

I hope you have enjoyed this tour of white rooms. Stay tuned for more.

Until next time...

Anne

It's all in the mix...

The rooms showcased here today, all from Country Living, have several things in common. They offer variety in finishes, textures, forms, and materials; and yet, they look cohesive and quite well-pulled together. It's all about keeping a consistent color theme as a unifying factor.
And of course my favorite color, white, is the best all-time unifier.

Come have a look and see what I mean.




This dining room is one of my favorites of all time, and it has it all. Notice the contrasts in color, shape, and form. The majority of furnighings here are white, but dark-colored accents add visual punch. The curvy elements, like the chandelier and the round table, are paired with straight lines in the hutch and the parson's chairs. Simple neutral-toned photos paired with gallery-style frames add symmetry and grace to this sophisticated mix. The pale blue walls hum a mellow tune in the background. I would linger here long after the meal has ended.



This room also juxtaopses elements of design. The scalloped edge table has ultra modern legs. The daybed, which actually looks like a crib with one side removed, adds a sense of airiness. The beadboard cupboard, woven basket, mirror, light fixture and vase of fluffy flowers all donate texture. This white stands out against the latte-colored walls but everythign here is easy on the eyes. Pillows and the throw add softness and comfort. What a perfect spot for a cup of jasmine tea.

The bathroom here has accents of old wood against the many textured whites. I love how the mantel is used as a shelf that also gives prominence to the tub area and echoes the natural wood door. The chandelier adds a touch of luxe and surprise to the scene. The chair, tile floor, and towel holder contribute textural elements and functionality. And the high windows add light while preserving privacy. I would love to grab a novel and a glass of wine and soak my tension away!

These rooms are a study in sensual delights. May they inspire you to add some more sensuality to your own home.

Until next time...

Anne

A Fine Romance...

With the coming of Valentine's Day and my own anniversary, I have love on the brain. Today I have gathered some images that speak the language of romance from Country Home. The rooms and tablescapes here were styled by my all-time favorite designer, Tricia Foley. She is well known for her love of white. The vignettes here are actually decorated for the winter holiday season, but I see no reason why these ideas could not be incorporated into rooms year round.

Come take a peek and discover ways to add a little spark to your life.



Pinks and reds look luxe next to sparkling mercury glass and crystal. The whole assemblage is set atop a dark wood side board.

Simple white accents add more softness to this spare room. Notice the white painted twig wreath, the vase of white tulips and the strands of pearls hung on the door latch.

This side board is alive with juicy colored flowers and rich potted evergreens. Notice how the elements are arranged assymetrically and vary in material, height and scale. The simple and earthy share space with the feminine and refined. This adds a layer of visual texture to the grouping and engages the eye. Candlelight always boosts the romance quotient.

This corner of the bedroom offers a cozy spot to snugle with your sweetie (be it an adult human, a sleepy child or a fluffy feline). The layers of subtle accents whisper, rather than shout. They invite you to quiet contemplation or shared intimacies. The fireplace adds a warm glow and creates some heat. This room looks fresh and gorgeous any time of the year.

I invite you to add some passion to your rooms as Valentine's Day is approaching and to consider ways to keep the flame burning all through the year.

Until next time...

Anne

Pull up a chair...

Nothing conjures up thoughts of comfort and warmth like a fireplace. Even when not in use fireplaces are the focal point in a room. They are as diverse as people themselves. They can be dressed up or down. They can be grand or simple. They can be painted or stained wood. They can be metal or stone.

I have chosen a few of my favorites for you today from Country Home. Pull up a chair, grab a cup of tea and enjoy!



In this room I love this carved stone, gothic surround is topped with a contrasting, aging mirror. This pairing is divine. Notice the way the firelight is reflected in the hearth. What a nice touch!



In this colonial room, the mantel wears a traditional coat of paint. The log basket, brick hearth and firescreen add texture.


This room is a statement in simplicity. The mantel is basic and understated; the woodstove, clean and curvy. The books, throws, and sisal rug add warmth and texture.




This mantel shows a delicate texture, which plays nicely off the bricks and the wood floor. Notice how the color of the mantel echoes the color of the metal accents around the room. The sculpture, being the only ornament on the mantel, commands attention.



This mantel shows that aged patina that I so dearly love. Notice the copper pot that houses split wood and the sepia-toned sheep photo above the mantel. These tie in nicely with the wood accents in the room.

I hope your home and your heart are filled with a warm glow on this chilly February evening.

Until next time...
Anne

A study in warm neutrals...

This house from Country Living shows whites paired with warm-toned wood and furnishings. It is a house that wraps you in a cozy embrace.

Come along for a tour.



This dining room contains a mix of fabrics and textures, all gathered round the huge, congenial, dining table. The scale of the lantern matches that of the table. The slip-covered parson's chairs invite lingering over after-dinner coffee and drinks.



This kitchen is stunning. It sports a mix of textures and the variety of earth-toned accents bring some warmth to this all-white room. Notice the transferware dishes, the wicker drawers and cutting board propped against the backsplash. The detailing of the cabinets, range hood and crown molding and dimension and elegance.

The breakfast nook continues the brown tones in various shades--from dark chocolate to to latte to amber. Notice the pressed botanicals on the wall, adding another natural note to the scene. The ironstons in the hutch adds a hint of sculpture in its curvy forms.

The living room has a subtle, peaceful feel to it. Notice the collection of ironstone on the mantel, the sea grass kindling basket, and the painted trunk serving as side table. All of these add a richness and dimension to the room.

The guest bedroom is serene, simple and cool, even with the brown ikat curtains and tablecloth. The four-poster bed adds height and drama. This room would be a treat to wake up to.

In this house many elements are repeated from one room to the next. These include: ironstone dishes, sisal rugs, natural finish wood in a multitude of shades, accents in creamy yellow and chocolate brown. Repeated themes lend consistency to the overall feel of the house and facilitate smooth transitions from one room to the next.

I hope this helps you think of ways to enrich your own home with accents that increase the coziness factor.

Until next time...

Anne