Lighting – When Fab Meets Function

“I just I need a pair of lamps” . . . said the client to the designer.  At first thought, and rightly so, addressing the functional need is the client’s request and the designer’s charge, but when you lay your eyes on this bejeweled, rock crystal duet . . . it less about need and all about desire. 

Oh, they had me at “hello!”

1950’s Carol Stupell Rock Crystal Lamps (From:  Galere as shown on 1st Dibs $9,900 – pair) 

Come a little closer for the love of crystal.

The original shades are still intact.  Just look at the pleating.  So feminine.

Getting back to reality . . .

Not everyone might decide to delve into as deep of a lighting investment in order to add some luminosity to end tables.  In fact, there might have been a simultaneous gasp at the beauty of these pieces, as well as the price tag! 

The point I’m making is that lamps can be beautifully structured additions to your interior space, while offering great functionality.  The two don’t have to be mutually exclusive of one another.  I’m always amazed when an investment has been made in a gorgeous rug or a stupendous sofa and then some languid lamps are expected to live up to the expectations set by the afore mentioned.  Just think of some times where extra accessories had to be brought in order to jazz up the room.  Great lamps can eliminate some of the excess clutter.

Did I mention these were from the 1950’s?  It just goes to show, good taste remains!

Have a brilliant day! ~ Wanda

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If Walls Could Talk

As an interior designer, who has been guilty of participating in the “wallpaper removal movement”, I have to say, I have a renewed interest and love of how the latest array of beautiful coverings have made their way back into focus.  There are so many crisp and delightful patterns!  If you took them out of the picture, (literally), such as in the room settings below, the outcome might be a bit blasé. 

My expert installer, Steve, will be so pleased to know he can go back to his title of, Steve the Paperhanger, rather than his moniker, of a few recent months ago, “Steve the Paper Stripper”.  (So sorry – sometimes I do have to get past the stuffiness often associated with interior designers!)  It should be known, while some folks are courageous enough to attempt to install their own paper, I heartedly recommend using a local experienced craftsman.  If you are investing in quality goods, why not invest in the best presentation of it?

Talk Topic:  How to bring the garden indoors? ~ Green and Grillwork.

Talk Topic:  How to create vertical balance without window treatments? ~ Pink Plaid Placement.

Talk Topic:  How to lower too tall ceilings?  Juxtaposing Jacobean

Talk Topic:  How to add in a large pattern?  Coordinating Color Compliments 

If after viewing this lovely display of fabulous walls, you still are nervous about the prospect of adding wall coverings as a design element, let’s talk about it.  Most of my vendors offer the option to purchase large, full-length samples, so you can have a better visual.  If you need to tie in some existing patterns, such as a rug, artwork, or existing fabrics, a bit of assistance will give you the confidence to forge ahead.  This is one of those design decisions which can also offer almost immediate gratification.  In a day or less of installation – viola! – a new room!

If these walls could talk, they would say:  “What are you waiting for?!”

Thanks for the cheery wall chat!  Wanda

(Photos compliments of Thibaut Wall Coverings.  One of my favorite trade vendors and available through Interior Concepts by Wanda.)

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Following Fashion

During the holidays, it’s a safe bet you may have taken the opportunity to catch up on the flurry of movies, showing at the local cinemas.  In the short period following these releases, the plethora of award ceremonies will begin, in order to honor the artistry of the actors, directors, writers, costume designers and set designers, as well as the  scads of people involved with the whole production.  Many of us, while rooting for our favorites, tune in to view the parade of fine couture, floating down the red carpet.  As I was listening to one of the commentators, on this eve of the Golden Globe Awards, I realized he was sharing a preview into spring fashion and how much it parallels to what debuts at my own industry’s spring market.

The plum, purple and blush palettes still hold their own for the spring.

For those who know me well, I do enjoy beautiful things but I’m not as much of a “fashionista” as I am a “comfortnista”.  The ship has sailed for me, in regards to 4” stiletto heels.  Nevertheless, I so appreciate the intricacies of creating couture, be it for the runway or for the home.  I believe in investing in quality, not quantity, as anything well-crafted can stand the test of time and can be updated in bits and pieces.  The new phrase, “recessionista” has been coined to reflect a lifestyle where excessive consumption has been reigned in, but it doesn’t mean life must be of an austere existence.

As I sometimes digress, I’ll get back to the subject at hand . . . “Following Fashion”.  Here are some captivating examples of how both of these fashion industries almost simultaneously overlap.

Ellie Saab and Christian Dior – Nude and Pêche – Watch for this to have a huge showing.

Shine by S.H.O Catalonia Chandelier with Cerused White Oak Beads 

Pearson 414 Chair (One of my clients’ favorite lines.)

“Magnolia” Archival Ink On Paper – (Sends my southern heart into a “fluttah”!)

The Valentino Metallic Denim Bag and Jason Wu Belted Dress showcase an elegant twist on grey.  (Note the warm undertones.)

  Baker Lotus Side Table – Debuting Spring 2010.

Shine by S.H.O. – Ritz Chair in rich velvet.

Many of us may be snuggled into our PJ’s, in less than “glam mode”, as we watch the parade of costumes, to most certainly be critiqued by, well . . . the critics.  Some of us might even wonder about the necessity of it all and that brings to me a recollection of one of my favorite scenes, in “The Devil Wears Prada” - (Click “here” for the video.  You can turn off my background music, with the button at the page bottom.)  Miranda Priestly certainly took her role in the industry very seriously!

In one form or another, your life is touched by design.  Let’s make that experience the best it possibly can be!

Golden Cheers to You!  Wanda

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