We've had a little while of quiet luxury, the silence has been deafening and I'll do some blogs on this later… no hate at all to subtlety, I love it - I'm an equal interiors opportunist, there's a style for everyone. But today I wanted to shout out and show-off some loud styles, bold choices and big styling.
An example to us all is the wonderful Michael S Smith who knows a thing or two about how to select and combine a jazzy piece, select some colour and texture and put it all together with seemingly no fear at all.
These rooms below are shining examples. This Hancock Park residence was one of several LA homes of the talented Shonda Rhimes. Designed by Elmer Grey, (who also designed the Beverly Hills Hotel) it was built in 1923, and after Shonda purchased it in 2014, it was restored and renovated by Michael and architect Bill Baldwin of HartmanBaldwin.
Note the astonishing desk. Glossy black lacquered wood, central under a stunning chandelier, mounted under an equally impressive wainscotting coffered ceiling. Double window treatments, with gold and cream patterned curtains that do not match the massive blue patterned rug at all, but yet all together, in this room, as a slice of life in this incredible house, it comes together and just works. Special recognition for the amber glass vase on the table. I love amber glass, when light shines through it it glows like liquid gold and makes everyone happy. Two art deco 1930s vintage pieces currently available in the shop, see links below for details.
PHOTO: MICHAEL MUNDY
Davidson Amber Pressed Glass Vase C. 1930
Davidson Amber Pressed Glass Pedestal Bowl C. 1930
Double credit for this little nook - again, bold, heavy, drapes. The little odd coloured kiddie chairs, two red and one blue - inspired. Great art direction too, with the tossed shoes, oh so casual. Love it.
PHOTO: MICHAEL MUNDY
This image I am titling, "How to love a wall". The effort for this wall finish, the sconces, the painting mounted over that incredible fabric, and then a plant in front of the painting, plus, not one but two big, beautiful, blue ceramic lamps, the high polished console, the chairs, more flowers. A feast for the eyes, the level of detail here is impressive.
PHOTO: MICHAEL MUNDY
So treasure your treasures, have fun with fabrics, enjoy a life of colour and join me later for some more interior design chat.