Ellisfield Collection

The Stockbridge collection by Vaughan, a renowned British brand specializing in decorative lighting, furniture, and textiles, draws inspiration from the historic Hampshire village of Stockbridge, England. The collection integrates the natural aesthetic of the ancient terrain, characterized by chalky hills, open spaces, woodlands, and wildlife, with contemporary design principles. Co-founder Lucy Vaughan highlights that the design process for this extensive collection, which encompasses several smaller sub-collections, is largely inspired by nature. The range reflects Vaughan’s forward-thinking and pared-down approach, emphasizing high-quality materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless style. A key starting point for the collection was the Kimmeridge chandelier, a reinterpretation of an original 1970s Italian design. This piece features carefully pressed steel leaves, hand-painted in a distressed green finish, complemented by gilded acorn details that showcase expert craftsmanship. Another highlight is a group of lights featuring a hand-painted, rust-effect finish, which imparts texture and depth differently across various designs. For example, the Rye chandelier’s graceful curves gain a 19th-century patina with this finish, while the Milland table lamp and Corfe chandelier, inspired by midcentury aesthetics, have their sculpted features accentuated and softened by the same rust effect. The Stockbridge collection aims to push the brand forward by offering an eclectic mix of styles and perspectives suitable for diverse interiors. Examples include the Westbourne table lamp, with its vibrant orange, crackle-glazed ceramic base, providing a pop of color, and the sleek, functional Midhurst reading light. The collection also expands on existing popular designs by introducing new sizes and finishes. This includes a smaller, six-light version of the Compiegne Leaf chandelier and a larger Selborne mirror, as well as a distressed green-painted finish for the Anjou chandelier, offering new nuances. A fresh and exciting piece in the collection is the Langley ceiling light, a rework of a 1950s French design. Crafted from brass with an alabaster shade, it combines a current and fresh feel with classical gravitas, attributed to its hand-polished, unlacquered brass and hand-finished alabaster. The brand suggests installing these in multiples for a dramatic effect in hallways. Vaughan emphasizes the use of fine, globally sourced materials throughout the Stockbridge collection. Notable materials include slip-cast earthenware with delicate crackle glazes for ceramics, solid cast brass, bronze, painted-rust finishes, and antiqued mirror. These material choices underscore Vaughan’s commitment to unique and high-quality design elements that define the brand's aesthetic. The collection also includes several mirrors, such as the Exton oval mirror and the Hensting mirror, and tables, alongside various lighting fixtures like the Finkley lantern, Antibes chandelier, Candover wall light, Childrey candlestick table lamp, Buckton desk lamp, and Hannington table lamp, ensuring a comprehensive offering for interior designers and enthusiasts. #VaughanDesigns #StockbridgeCollection #LuxuryLighting #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #DecorativeLighting #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Craftsmanship

The Frick Collection, housed in a 1914 limestone mansion in New York City, has undergone its most extensive upgrade in nearly 90 years, allowing visitors for the first time to explore the private second-floor suites of the Frick family. Previously, the museum primarily showcased its collection in the grand first-floor rooms, but now the more intimate, domestic-scale spaces—comprising about 10 rooms and several passageways that once served as bedrooms and sitting rooms for Henry Clay Frick, his wife Adelaide, and daughter Helen—have been converted into galleries. This transformation offers a unique perspective on the collection within a historically preserved domestic setting. Selldorf Architects completed this comprehensive renovation, which opened in April, revealing the grand architectural style and personal living spaces of the early 20th-century industrialist family. A notable artistic feature on the second floor is an enchanting ceiling mural along the corridor, contrasting with the formal interiors. This hand-painted work by John Alden Twachtman depicts cerulean skies and landscapes filled with monkeys dressed in Chinese costumes, engaging in human activities. This playful design is a nod to French Rococo traditions of singeries and chinoiseries, with a particularly charming detail being a monkey lighting candles for a floating lantern near the entrance to Adelaide’s bedroom suite. The mural's commission highlights the pioneering work of Elsie de Wolfe, considered America's first interior decorator. De Wolfe, at the beginning of her career, boldly pitched her services to Mr. Frick in 1914, emphasizing her expertise in detail and understanding of women's spaces, which she argued male decorators often overlooked. Her persistence led to her being hired, and she subsequently created the iconic Boucher Boudoir. This room, a vibrant display of 18th-century French exuberance, features eight cherub-laden panels painted by François Boucher, depicting the arts and sciences. After previously being displayed on the museum’s main floor, the Boucher Room has been meticulously restored to its original location adjacent to Mrs. Frick’s bedroom. This boudoir, serving as Mrs. Frick's private sitting room, is celebrated for its complete ensemble, including its corner location with windows offering views of Central Park and 70th Street. Another significant area now accessible is the beloved breakfast room, where the family shared their first meal of the day. This room, facing east, captures the morning light, creating a warm ambiance, and showcases the domestic routine of the Frick family, where meals were brought up from the lower-level kitchen by a waiter. To commemorate these enhancements, the museum is hosting the exhibition "Vermeer’s Love Letters" throughout the summer. This exhibition reunites the Frick’s masterpiece, Vermeer’s "Mistress and Maid," with two special loans: "The Love Letter" from Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and "Woman Writing a Letter" from the National Gallery of Ireland. Displayed together in a single gallery for the first time, these three works offer a fitting tribute to the newly refurbished Gilded-Age museum. #FrickCollection #NewYorkCity #MuseumRenovation #ElsieDeWolfe #InteriorDesign #GildedAge #VermeerExhibition #ArchitecturalHistory #ArtCollection

This article details an extraordinary estate sale held from March 9-12 at a Colonial home in Bedford Corners, N.Y., formerly owned by Andrew and Randi Heine and decorated by renowned designer Bunny Williams. The sale, managed by Elizabeth Jackson, an experienced estate sale organizer and retail showroom owner, attracted considerable attention, including an invitation-only champagne preview for members of the American Society of Interior Designers. Martha Stewart, a local resident, attended the sale daily, as did Apple Bartlett and Susan Crater, daughter and granddaughter of the late interior decorator Sister Parish, whose design firm they continue to operate. Sister Parish's influence was evident through several items with her provenance and a stack of her decorating books available at the sale. The home itself, built in 1930 for the Heinz family, provided a picturesque backdrop for the event. Jackson, with 15 years of experience in high-end estate sales and a retail showroom in Norwalk, Conn., emphasized her commitment to curating special sales that offer a diverse mix of antiques, vintage pieces, and modern designs across various price points. Her goal is to provide buyers with unique finds and educational experiences. The sale's success was evident from the consistent turnout and enthusiasm of attendees, who appreciated both the quality and quantity of items available, ranging from window treatments to lighting fixtures. The sale operated on an auction-style bidding system, with many items receiving multiple bids or selling instantly. Among the most sought-after items were an unusual jardinière with a mahogany top, displayed in the entranceway filled with orchids and cyclamen, and a sunburst lighting fixture crafted from an antique Venetian-style mirror. The latter, described by Jackson as the "most coveted item," sold during the preview, highlighting its rarity and desirability. Other popular items included a Tabriz rug in a blue-gray palette in the living room, a zinc bar in the sunroom, a three-level Maison Jansen rolling étagère, an 1880s storage chest with needlepoint upholstery, and a D-end antique mahogany French dining table with four leaves and drop-leaf ends that previously belonged to Sister Parish. The process of packing up and clearing the house continued for almost a week after the official end of the sale, reflecting the volume of items sold. For those interested in the property itself, the estate was also listed for sale at $5.8 million. Elizabeth Jackson's retail store is located at 207 Liberty Square in Norwalk, Conn., offering additional opportunities for antique and design enthusiasts. This event underscores the continued demand for high-quality antiques and vintage furnishings, especially those with a rich history or designer provenance. #EstateSale #InteriorDesign #Antiques #VintageFurnishings #HomeDecor #LuxuryRealEstate #BunnyWilliams #SisterParish #ElizabethJackson

This article explores how three Westchester homeowners master the art of chic collecting, blending formidable treasures and flawless taste to create truly livable homes rather than museum-like spaces. Each homeowner or couple showcases a unique approach to integrating extensive and diverse art collections into their personal residences. Karen Schlansky's Chappaqua home, which also functions as a gallery for her business, Rose Court Asian Antiques, exemplifies how Asian art can be seamlessly integrated into various decors. Her 1987-built "country barn" style home, characterized by wide-planked pine floors and exposed-beam ceilings, eclectic furnishings, and diverse collections. Schlansky's collection includes Tang Dynasty pottery sculptures, a third-century pottery lokapala, and Ming Dynasty musicians, which she skillfully mixes with contemporary furniture and art from other cultures like African masks and Southwestern paper collages. Her journey into antique dealing began with a passion for Chinese history and culture during her travels, leading her to establish Rose Court Asian Antiques in 1997. Initially, her gallery was in the lower level of her home, but she later moved it to the first floor to better demonstrate how the pieces would look in a living space. While most of her pieces are for sale, a cherished Qing Dynasty lacquered leather box, representing her family's leather business, remains a permanent fixture, symbolizing her past, present, and future. Dr. Lewis Shapiro and Linda Swanson, after downsizing from a rustic Briarcliff Manor home to a two-bedroom condominium in Trump Tower at City Center, faced the challenge of displaying their extensive global art collection. Their collection, which began in 1985 after Swanson acquired African art from Sotheby's, includes 20th-century wooden masks from Western Africa, thousand-year-old Casas Grandes pottery from Mexico, and antique Chinese snuff bottles. They enlisted Scarsdale interior designer Linda Blair of Blair Interiors Group, Ltd., who, as a collector herself, understood their desire to integrate art into their living space rather than merely displaying it. Blair designed the apartment with a neutral color palette of cream, beige, and caramel to highlight the art and used traditional yet comfortable furniture. Custom cabinetry in the living room showcases a range of their prized pieces, such as a painted gold Ashanti staff finial, a Kuba cub, and a Dan chimpanzee mask. A concrete pillar was transformed into a display for intricately carved Yoruba twins, and an illuminated niche in the entry foyer highlights ancient Roman artifacts, flanked by 16th-century French church columns. The entrance also features framed illuminated miniatures from Les Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, holding both artistic and sentimental value for Swanson. Blair's goal was to unify and organize their diverse collection, creating a livable space that avoided feeling like a museum. Marc and Denyse Ginzberg, homeowners in Rye, have transitioned from collecting African art to focusing on Ethiopian crosses. Their sleek, modern home, designed by Charles Forberg in 1993, offers spectacular water views and features custom-made shelves, antique armoires, and chests to display their collections. Initially, their collection included world-class African art such as ceremonial combs, hairpins, hats, sword handles, spoons, clubs, and whistles. After collecting for over 35 years and amassing an impressive collection of authentic African masks and sculptures, the Ginzbergs decided to sell their figurative works due to rising prices. They then shifted their focus to non-figural, abstract objects of use, known as "forms," which were featured in Marc's book, African Forms. After auctioning off a significant portion of this collection at Sotheby's Paris, breaking records for non-figurative African art, the Ginzbergs have now turned their attention to intricately designed Ethiopian crosses from the 12th to 19th centuries, composed of bronze, iron, wood, and silver. This new passion reflects their continuous engagement with collecting and their ability to identify emerging areas of interest in the art world, often ahead of museums and other collectors. #ArtCollection #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AsianAntiques #AfricanArt #EthiopianCrosses #ArtCollecting #DecorativeArts #HomeDecor

Noz Nozawa, a San Francisco-based designer, has introduced a new line of chandeliers and sconces for Corbett Lighting, drawing inspiration directly from her personal jewelry collection. Her design philosophy posits that lighting serves as the jewelry of a home, a concept she has materialized by translating actual rings, bracelets, and necklaces into elegant lighting fixtures. Nozawa's approach involved "mega-sizing" cherished antique and vintage jewelry pieces, extracting their forms, silhouettes, and inherent purposes. This connection between jewelry and lighting extends beyond visual aesthetics to encompass the manufacturing processes. Nozawa observes that the creation of delicate-looking diamond rings and tennis bracelets involves robust and complex techniques, mirroring the metal forging and glass blowing processes found in the lighting industry. She highlights how the fabrication methods for chains and glass in lighting production have clear parallels, albeit on a micro-scale, in jewelry making. This realization allowed her to craft a lighting collection that not only visually references her beloved jewelry but is also inspired by the intricate methods of its creation. One direct example of her translation process is the Bezel sconce, which stemmed from a Victorian-era ring. Nozawa's initial sketch for the collection was a brass wall sconce with inset luna glass, directly inspired by an 1891 three-diamond ring she acquired at an antique show. The ring's bezel-set design, where stones are flush with the gold, gives the sconce its name. Available in three-stone and five-stone versions, the Bezel sconce can be hung horizontally to evoke vanity lights or vertically as a dazzling, organically shaped fixture. Another inspiration comes from an 18th-century-style bangle, which led to the Riviere chandelier featured in Nozawa's own living room. This chandelier, characterized by cabochon-studded elements, addresses her desire for a fixture that emits light outwards rather than downwards, eliminating the need for a glare-diffusing panel. The chandelier's "gems" are crafted from heavily veined ice onyx, whose striations are visible whether the lights are on or off, and are accentuated by a luxurious gold-leaf finish that interacts beautifully with natural and ambient light. The Riviere line also incorporates Nozawa's favored mariner chain motif, reminiscent of ship anchor chains, and includes a wall sconce designed to resemble a dangling earring. Nozawa’s practice of stacking necklaces, as seen on her Instagram, influenced the Daith chandelier. This fixture allows for numerous dramatic arrangements with varying heights, diverging from typical multi-pendant chandeliers that often feature globes of a single size. The Daith chandelier utilizes etched-glass globes that mimic the softened pyramid shape of a sugarloaf cut in gemstones, suspended by her signature mariner chains. The burnished brass finish, designed to replicate 18-karat gold with a pre-patina, provides a rich, orangey hue that feels like a living finish, evoking antique jewelry. The customizability of the Daith fixture is a key feature, allowing all six lights to be draped in either an organized or deliberately disorganized manner. In her own dining area, a chain extends from above the table to the bar area, showcasing the flexibility intended for the entire collection. Nozawa aimed for a versatile collection that appeals to a wide audience, offering a striking "kapow!" light fixture for minimalist interiors or a maximalist piece that gives the impression of layered necklaces suspended from the ceiling. #NozNozawa #CorbettLighting #JewelryInspiredLighting #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #AntiqueJewelryInfluence #Chandeliers #Sconces

Bibury, often dubbed ‘the most beautiful village in England’ by William Morris, is home to the delightful Grade II-listed Arlington Manor. This property, located in the wooded Coln Valley, approximately seven miles from Cirencester, is currently on the market for a guide price of £1.895 million, managed by Savills. Historically, Arlington Manor has a rich past. The Victoria County History (1981) records it as a 17th-century house, with an 18th-century south-west front resulting from a partial rebuilding of its south wing. In 1839, the property functioned as a farmhouse within the Barnsley Park estate, featuring outbuildings to the south, including a barn dating back to 1808. The current owner acquired the house in April 2004 and has since undertaken a sympathetic and extensive renovation. This renovation included integrating the attached stone barn at the rear into the main structure, thereby creating a substantial additional reception room. The property now offers expansive, flexible, and well-lit accommodation spread across three floors. It comprises five reception rooms, a dedicated study, a fully-equipped kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms, and five bathrooms. The manor's unique charm is further enhanced by its recent interior design update, skillfully executed by Joanna Wood. Wood is renowned for her expertise in Cotswold properties, having previously restored her own Georgian manor house in nearby Southrop, lending her a deep understanding of the region's architectural and aesthetic sensibilities. Outdoors, a paved courtyard at the rear of the house leads to the enchanting walled gardens. These gardens feature a variety of private, landscaped areas meticulously divided by traditional dry-stone walls, offering a serene and picturesque environment. Included in the sale is an attached one-bedroom cottage, which boasts independent access next to Arlington’s wrought-iron entrance gates, as well as an internal connection to the main house. Additionally, the property features a fully equipped party barn. This barn is designed for entertainment, complete with soft furnishings, dramatic lighting, a table football setup, and a cinema screen, making it an ideal space for social gatherings and leisure activities. #CotswoldProperty #ArlingtonManor #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #PeriodProperty #CountryLife #JoannaWood #Bibury

Robert Highsmith and Stefanie Brechbuehler, the husband-and-wife founders of the design firm Workstead, have curated their living room with a collection of "unexpected heirlooms." Mr. Highsmith, 43, is described by Ms. Brechbuehler as the couple's lead collector, whose passion has filled their home with objects reflecting his thoughts, loves, and curiosities. Ms. Brechbuehler, 47, finds inspiration in being surrounded by these meaningful pieces, which range from ancient urns to midcentury modern furniture. The couple relocated from a farmhouse in Salisbury, Conn., to Charleston, S.C., and strategically displayed their favorite finds in their living room for daily enjoyment. The article highlights three key items that contribute to the unique ambiance of their living room. The first is an "Easy Upgrade" item: a weeping fig tree priced at $395 from Hyams Garden and Accent Store. The couple emphasizes the technique of using a large-scale plant or branches that touch the ceiling to create a lively and enveloping atmosphere. This “scale trick” is consistently applied in their designs, providing an unexpected visual element that pulls a room together. They purchased a nine-foot-tall weeping fig tree shortly after moving to Charleston, illustrating their commitment to this design principle. The second featured item is a "Splurge": a 19th-century boat bench priced at $2,800 from Obsolete. Mr. Highsmith has admired Obsolete in Los Angeles since his student days, finding inspiration in its curated vignettes. After establishing Workstead, he acquired this storage bench, salvaged from a boat and made of chestnut. Its wave and scroll forms, along with its practical utility—featuring doors to contain clutter—appealed to him. The bench currently serves as storage for family board games and a seating area with a view of a park, demonstrating its multifaceted functionality and whimsical quality. The third unique item is an "One of a Kind" antique weather vane from Eldred’s auction house. Mr. Highsmith’s collection includes objects chosen for their essential geometric shapes, which have influenced his light fixture designs at Workstead. Among these pieces are a rusted metal cone, a spherical iron form for casting glass floats, and a marble cylinder used as a pedestal. The timeworn weather vane from Nantucket, crafted from cedar shakes with a galvanized steel nose cone, is a particular favorite. Mr. Highsmith appreciates its beauty as a sculpture and its past functionality, noting how its new context in his living room brings delight to both the couple and their guests. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Workstead #CollectingArt #AntiqueFurniture #HomeStyling #RealEstate #CharlestonLiving

Emeco has launched its new Alfi collection, a collaboration with designer Jasper Morrison, drawing inspiration from the classic Parisian bistro chair. The collection, which includes a high-back chair, a three-seater bench, and a low-back counter stool, was introduced at Salone del Mobile with a unique pop-up workshop featuring metalsmith Josh Fisher. Fisher, a craftsman from Hanover, Pennsylvania, was the first metalsmith in Emeco’s 70-year history to travel to Salone del Mobile on behalf of the company, demonstrating the artisanal process behind the collection. At the Emeco workshop, Fisher showcased his skill by panel-beating sheets of aluminum, shaping the chair seats using a sandbag, a deviation from his usual wood supports. Morrison's design philosophy, characterized by his "Super Normal" style, is evident in the chair's simplicity. It features a flat seat and a rounded back that echoes the supportive shape of traditional bistro chairs. An elliptical hole in the back of the chair facilitates easy transportation. The production versions of the Alfi collection are environmentally conscious, manufactured from 100% reclaimed post-industrial waste, specifically 92.5% polypropylene combined with 7.5% wood fiber. The bases of the chairs are crafted by Amish artisans using locally-sourced ash wood, further emphasizing the blend of traditional craftsmanship with sustainable materials. Morrison himself praised the design, noting its exceptional comfort. During the Milan exhibition, Fisher meticulously crafted a handmade aluminum version of the Alfi chair. This special edition served to highlight Emeco's steadfast commitment to intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail, contrasting with the mass-produced, recycled material versions. The launch event was not solely focused on design and craftsmanship; it also incorporated a culinary element under the theme "Eat me! Drink me! Tell me that you love me!" In collaboration with Wallpaper*, Chef Arnold Hoeksma from St John, Morrison's preferred restaurant, was present. Hoeksma prepared pizzas featuring bone marrow, a signature ingredient, offering a distinctive twist on Italian cuisine to both Fisher and other attendees, including design journalists. The Emeco Workshop was on display through April 18th at via San Gregorio 43, providing an immersive experience that combined design, craft, and gastronomy. #Emeco #JasperMorrison #AlfiCollection #SaloneMilan #FurnitureDesign #ChairDesign #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #IndustrialDesign #Exhibitions

The article explores ten unique and eclectic antique stores and vintage markets located in Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, offering a guide for individuals interested in discovering vintage goods, collectibles, and home decor. These establishments cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, ranging from high-end furniture to quirky knick-knacks. First on the list is Upstairs Downstairs Home, situated on Charles Street in Beacon Hill, also known as "Antique Row." This store is noted for its diverse inventory, accommodating various price points with items such as high-end furniture and more affordable collectibles. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Also located on Antique Row is Elegant Findings Antiques, which specializes in antique porcelain and glassware. The store features delicate teacups, decorative porcelain figures, and a selection of antique furniture, appealing to those with an appreciation for fine historical items. It is open Thursday through Saturday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Bartevian, a hidden gem on Boylston Street, functions as both an antique consignment store and a tribute to Edgar Allan Poe, who was born nearby. This establishment offers a unique assortment of vintage lunch boxes, paintings, sculptures, toys, LPs, and books, along with Poe-themed merchandise. Established in 1910, it is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Fun Antiques in Cambridge focuses on vintage lighting, offering both sales and repairs of lamps and light fixtures. Beyond lighting, the store stocks mid-century furniture and decor, vintage instruments, audio equipment, movie props, and costume jewelry. Its operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM. The Cambridge Antique Market is a substantial multi-dealer marketplace spanning five floors and housing over 150 antique dealers. Visitors can explore a vast array of vintage furniture, lighting fixtures, artwork, fine silver, glass, China, toys, dolls, books, clothing, and other collectibles. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 5:30 PM. SoWa Vintage Market, located on Harrison Ave in Boston's South End, offers a varied selection of merchandise from different vendors. The market is open on Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM and on the first Friday of each month from 5 PM to 9 PM, with an outdoor open market available during warmer months. Machine Age showcases iconic furniture and lighting from the past century, including rare Danish modern pieces. While not all items are budget-friendly, the store serves as a source of inspiration for high-end, mid-century designer pieces. It is open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, and by appointment. Select Markets, founded by Northeastern University students, organizes pop-up events featuring curated vintage goods from independent sellers, alongside food, beverages, and live DJs. The schedule for these events is announced via their Instagram page. Retrospect, on Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, offers a collection of items from past decades, with a focus on vintage clothing but also including furniture and various knick-knacks. It is open daily from 12 PM to 9 PM. Finally, friends + family, also on Massachusetts Avenue across from Retrospect, primarily sells vintage clothing but periodically features antique items such as lamps, rugs, and decor sourced from designers. The store is closed on Tuesdays and operates Monday, Wednesday-Friday from 12 PM to 6 PM, Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. #antiqueStores #vintageShopping #BostonAntiques #CambridgeAntiques #homeDecor #collectibleItems #interiorDesign #MassachusettsShopping

The article highlights how interior designers are increasingly embracing eclecticism and individualism by incorporating vintage and antique decor into their projects to add character to homes. Decorating with art is presented as a classic and effective method to infuse personality, showcasing individual tastes and styles while adding color, pattern, and texture to a room. Emily Henderson, a prominent designer, recently shared her passion for vintage art on Instagram, revealing her collection of eleven pieces and offering insights on how to select and place art within a home. Henderson demonstrates that shopping secondhand for art can be a cost-effective yet impactful way to introduce unique character. Her collection includes a cubist-style painting in a kitchen nook and a small framed dog painting unconventionally placed on a bathroom window. This particular placement is highlighted as a clever strategy to accessorize an otherwise empty space and bring a pop of color. She also features a pair of flower still lifes, bought for only $75, which she hung one above the other, transforming a blank wall into an eye-catching display. These pieces are complemented by gold tarnished frames and a matching gold reading light, creating an antique-inspired setup. The article emphasizes that antique and flea markets are excellent sources for art. Henderson showcases a statement piece in her dining room and a scenic seascape above a chest of drawers in her hallway. A notable flea market find is an Expressionist painting depicting a woman's side profile, rendered in bright primary colors. Henderson invested in a gold frame to enhance its vibrancy, pairing it with an antique-style gold sconce to create a sophisticated and timeless display. Art is presented as a simple yet powerful tool for decorating with antiques, capable of elevating any empty surface. Still-life paintings, often simple in subject matter, are shown to convey a classic and high-end aesthetic. Henderson places another still-life painting on her kitchen countertop, infusing the area with color and warmth. Her ninth vintage piece, a geometric, cubist-style artwork, is positioned above her fireplace mantel, providing character and rustic charm to a living room, especially when contrasting with minimal white walls and neutral decor. Emily Henderson's approach to art placement is noted for its unconventionality, as she isn't afraid to utilize overlooked areas. A small painted landscape, set in an antique wood frame, is placed within her kitchen shelves. This charming addition brings warmth and character to the kitchen, elements that are often neglected in kitchen design. With a total cost of $80 for this framed picture, Henderson exemplifies how secondhand shopping can effectively refresh dull areas. Ultimately, Henderson’s collection serves as inspiration for adopting the vintage trend for 2025, demonstrating that an eclectic and charming space can be achieved even on a limited budget through thoughtful art acquisition and placement. #EmilyHenderson #VintageArt #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SecondhandFinds #ArtPlacement #EclecticStyle #AffordableDecor #FleaMarket

The Lewis Latimer House Museum, located in Flushing, Queens, is a Queen Anne-style, wood-frame house that serves as a historical tribute to Lewis Howard Latimer, an African American inventor, electrical pioneer, and artist. Constructed in the 19th century, the house was Latimer's family home from 1903 to 1928 before its transformation into a museum in 1989. The museum's primary mission is to preserve and share Latimer's story, engaging a diverse audience through permanent and rotating exhibitions, as well as STEAM-focused public programs that highlight the intersection of arts and sciences. Latimer, despite his significant contributions to science and technology, including working with prominent inventors like Thomas Edison, Alexander Bell, and Hiram Maxim, has often been overlooked in historical narratives. Ran Yan, the executive director of the Lewis Latimer House Museum, has dedicated nearly eight years to this institution. Her involvement began as a fellow during a pilot project aimed at reinvigorating the then-underperforming museum. Coming from China and having a personal interest in both science and arts, Yan found a strong connection to Latimer's multi-dimensional story and his advocacy for integrating STEAM subjects. Her work focuses on making Latimer's story accessible and inspiring to the community, particularly to BIPOC audiences, with approximately 40% African American, 17% Asian, and 17% Latine participants in their educational programs. The museum is deeply rooted in the diverse Flushing-Queens community, with almost half of its residents being first or second-generation Chinese immigrants, fostering a community-centered approach where locals are encouraged to shape activities based on their needs. Yan emphasizes the unique aspect of the museum being Latimer's authentic historic home, offering visitors an intimate and visceral connection to the space where he lived. She finds fulfillment in learning from visitors who bring a wealth of backgrounds and knowledge, and in the unwavering dedication of the board members, including a descendant of Lewis Latimer. A significant point of pride for Yan has been building a diverse and passionate team and board from scratch, ensuring that the team accurately represents the community they serve and the history they convey. Her advice for those interested in science engagement work is to identify personal passions and connect them with community needs, encouraging individuals to challenge themselves and explore new interests for a fulfilling career. Latimer was a self-taught inventor, humanist, and patent expert whose parents were freedom seekers from Virginia. Despite lacking formal education, he taught himself drafting as an office boy in a patent law firm, eventually becoming its head draftsman before joining Thomas Edison's team in New York City. The museum continues to showcase his passion for the arts, illustrating his early advocacy for the integral connection between science and artistic expression, a point he even articulated in a speech to the Bridgeport Scientific Society. The Lewis Latimer House Museum stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of an important historical figure and a vibrant community hub for education and engagement. #LewisLatimerHouseMuseum #RanYan #AfricanAmericanHistory #STEAMEducation #CommunityEngagement #HistoricPreservation #QueensCulture #InventorBiography #MuseumLeadership

Chesterfield Designs is a brand specializing in customized, premium-quality furniture, boasting over two decades of experience in the industry. The company offers a diverse range of bespoke solutions for various living spaces, including bedrooms, living rooms, and dining areas. Their product line encompasses sofas, consoles, bar units, wardrobes, and dining tables, among other items. Each piece of furniture is crafted to meet individual customer visions, with designers integrating their expertise to bring these concepts to fruition. The brand emphasizes the uniqueness of each creation, allowing for personalized choices in style, color, and material from an extensive selection. A core tenet of Chesterfield Designs is the engineering of their furniture for longevity and durability, ensuring that products are built to withstand years of regular use. This commitment to quality is complemented by a comprehensive service offering that includes hassle-free installation and robust after-sales support. Manjari Thanawala, the creative head of Chesterfield Designs, spearheads the creative direction of the brand, upholding principles of honesty and integrity. Thanawala is a proponent of producing long-lasting, durable items rather than transient, seasonal pieces. Her design philosophy extends to the interiors of the Chesterfield Designs showrooms located in Worli and Andheri, Mumbai, which she personally designed. The brand's design philosophy is rooted in meticulous attention to detail, continuous innovation, expert craftsmanship, and a superior quality finish across all its products. Chesterfield Designs is characterized by its eclecticism, demonstrating an inherent ability to maintain a distinct brand identity while adeptly adapting to a wide array of customer requirements. This adaptability and commitment to individuality are central pillars of their operations. Chesterfield Designs is slated to showcase some of its signature furniture pieces at the AD Design Show 2023. The collection on display will include a regal armchair, a sophisticated center table, an elegant closet, and a meticulously detailed bed accompanied by matching side tables. Additionally, visitors to the event will have the opportunity to view the brand's exquisite paneling options, highlighting their comprehensive capabilities in interior furnishings. This exhibition provides a platform for the brand to demonstrate its craftsmanship and diverse product range to a broader audience. #ChesterfieldDesigns #CustomFurniture #LuxuryFurniture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #ManjariThanawala #ADDesignShow #MumbaiShowrooms

The five-acre equestrian estate featured in the 2013 film, "The Wolf Of Wall Street," as Jordan Belfort's luxurious Long Island mansion, has been listed for sale at $10 million. This property, located at 324 Calf Farm Road, was custom-built in 2010 by equestrian and horse breeder Ralph Bianculli. It is situated just five minutes from Oyster Bay Village, approximately 50 minutes north of Manhattan, 45 minutes from the Hamptons, and 25 minutes from Belmont Park, a major thoroughbred horse racing track. The estate boasts significant equine facilities, including 10-stall stables with an attached apartment, a tack room, and a riding ring, having raised over 100 racehorses in the past decade. The residence itself spans an impressive 15,000 square feet and features six fireplaces throughout. The entrance foyer is adorned with inlaid marble floors and coffered ceilings. The ground floor includes a unique 'legal apartment.' The French country kitchen is equipped with custom cabinetry resembling fine furniture, integrated high-end appliances, three dishwashers, a large refrigerator, a stainless-steel six-burner oven, and a brick pizza oven. This expansive kitchen space opens directly into a breakfast and family room. Across three levels, the mansion offers six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, many of which feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The basement is a dedicated entertainment area, designed with the ambiance of a high-end country club. It comprises a cozy sitting area, a nightclub-style wet bar complete with seating and a beer tap, and direct access to a circular brick wine cellar. Additionally, the basement houses a home cinema, a poker room, and a hot tub room with its own fireplace. For fitness, there is a gym that leads to a cabana bath, which includes a steam shower and a spa. The exterior architecture of the main mansion is characterized by a large, classic turret and a steeply pitched roof, evoking the style of a French château. The house is set amidst five meticulously manicured acres, leading to a circular front courtyard with a fountain, an oversized four-car garage, and a cook's garden. The rear of the property features a spectacular entertainment complex. This area is centered around a heated, saltwater in-ground pool, complemented by an expansive bluestone patio, mood lighting, a separate spa with a fountain, an outdoor bar, and a waterfall that cascades down a rocky hillside into a koi pond. There is also space allocated for an outdoor cinema. #JordanBelfort #WolfOfWallStreet #LongIslandMansion #LuxuryRealEstate #EquestrianEstate #HomeDesign #EntertainmentSpace #PropertyListing #FilmLocation

The article showcases the Marrickville Laneway House, a transformed semi-detached cottage in Sydney's inner suburbs, designed by Studio Weave Architects. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can convert an older, often economically driven, housing type into a modern, comfortable family home, addressing contemporary living needs and local council regulations. Semi-detached cottages, originally built for inexpensive housing, frequently present challenges during renovation, including limited access to light, air, and views, as well as the need to maintain streetscape character. Studio Weave Architects successfully navigated these complexities, creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The design strategy involved retaining the original front rooms and corridor for bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry, while adding a new open-plan living area at the rear, topped by a third bedroom, study, and ensuite. This straightforward plan is enriched by meticulous design details. A thin light well with a large overhead window, placed between the old and new sections, allows natural light to cascade into the living spaces. Below the stair, a semi-sunken living room features a built-in bench and a window box seat, offering versatile spaces for interaction or quiet retreat, making the small room feel more expansive. A significant design element is the northeast corner of the living room, which employs complex door joinery to slide away, eliminating a corner column and opening up diagonal views to the garden. This feature seamlessly connects the interior with the exterior, despite the garden's modest size. Upstairs, highlight windows are strategically placed, with glass leaning back on thin steel supports, reminiscent of iconic rural Australian architecture. Operable solid timber panels on the northern facade provide privacy and prevent overlooking, while a fixed glass window at the rear frames a view of a prominent backyard tree. The material palette heavily features recycled Australian hardwood, used for walls, doors, windows, floors, and joinery. This choice imparts a rich warmth throughout the house and celebrates the inherent character of the timber, with its marks and scars. The extensive use of recycled materials also contributes to the project's sustainability by reducing reliance on raw resources and diverting timber from landfill. Further environmental considerations include the incorporation of a rainwater tank and the promotion of natural cross-ventilation, eliminating the need for air conditioning. The Marrickville Laneway House stands as a testament to the transformative power of good design in renovating existing housing stock. By balancing practical considerations with creative solutions, the architects have delivered a family home that prioritizes comfort, natural light, privacy, and sustainability. The project demonstrates how careful attention to detail, material selection, and spatial organization can elevate a humble semi-detached dwelling into a refined and enjoyable living environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #SydneyArchitecture #SemiDetachedHouse #RecycledTimber #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving

The Kelley Residence, a 6,000-square-foot, three-bedroom home in Woodside, California, designed by Italian architect and designer Ettore Sottsass, is currently on the market for $13.5 million. This property is one of only three Sottsass-designed residences in the United States and reflects a unique collaboration between Sottsass and David Kelley, founder of IDEO and the Stanford d.school. Despite strict local building codes in Silicon Valley aimed at preserving the area's small-town character, Sottsass's creativity flourished, resulting in an unconventional design. The home is conceptualized as a village, comprising six linked pavilions, each distinct in shape, material, and color. This circa-2000 structure embodies Sottsass's design philosophy, particularly his rejection of traditional hallways in favor of flexible, connected spaces. The property was initially scouted by Kelley's wife for its existing equestrian facilities, including a barn, riding ring, and stables. Kelley approached Sottsass in 1996 with his own ideas, which Sottsass promptly dismissed, preferring to design a "house for the present." Unlike some of Sottsass's more vibrant, colorful projects, the Kelley Residence integrates with its landscape, adhering to local codes by utilizing natural materials such as stucco, shingles, brick, tile, wood, and steel. However, the diverse material palette itself represents an unconventional approach. Each pavilion serves a specific function; for instance, the children's rooms are housed in a green structure resembling a Monopoly piece, while the office features a Quonset hut-inspired design with an inspiring barrel-vaulted ceiling. Sottsass's design philosophy emphasized creating different spaces to accommodate various moods and activities. To compensate for square footage limitations imposed by the city, Sottsass incorporated outdoor terraces and a glass-ceiling atrium, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. His familiarity with California, stemming from a stay at Stanford hospital in 1961, informed his design, allowing him to strategically place windows to frame specific views. The interior features custom-built furniture, much of which was manufactured in an Italian gymnasium, disassembled, shipped, and reassembled on-site by the same craftsmen. Notable design elements include oversized knobs in the kitchen, a pendant by Johanna Grawunder, and plastic laminate cabinets in the living area designed to evoke a forest-like experience. The principal bedroom uniquely places the bed in the center of the room, with a functional shelf behind it and sliding glass doors leading to a tiled patio. Michael Dreyfus, CEO of Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty, highlights the home's intentional "off-balance" design, characterized by odd angles and utilitarian yet whimsical elements, creating a unique and engaging living experience. The property also retains its original equestrian facilities, and Kelley has repurposed one of the outbuildings as a design studio and the barn for his classic car collection. Beyond the residence, dozens of Sottsass originals, including furniture, sculptures, and sketches, are also available for purchase, offering a comprehensive collection of the designer's work. #EttoreSottsass #DavidKelley #ModernArchitecture #SiliconValley #MemphisGroup #CustomDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalMasterpiece #WoodsideCalifornia

Emma Sims-Hilditch, a prominent figure in the interior design landscape, is celebrated for crafting serene yet practical interiors that exude an understated modern elegance. Her designs are equally suited for both rural and urban settings, reflecting a unique blend of sophistication and comfort. Her journey into interior design was unconventional, beginning with a career in film production in London, where she worked as a production assistant for Ridley Scott on films like 'Thelma and Louise' and 'Gladiator'. This experience proved invaluable, equipping her with essential skills in managing large-scale projects and budgets. Today, her design studio, comprising a team of 30 professionals, serves a diverse clientele, including British clients and international patrons seeking assistance with properties in the UK and abroad. Sims-Hilditch's design philosophy is deeply rooted in nature and the preservation of England's architectural heritage. Her signature aesthetic is characterized by calm color palettes, tactile textures, and a harmonious fusion of modern and classic elements, creating interiors that are both relaxing and highly functional for daily life. The Sims Hilditch studio, formally launched in 2009, evolved organically from Emma's initial foray into interior work. After leaving film production and relocating to Wiltshire, she renovated her own derelict, listed former school and established a professional curtain-making business. Her 'big break' came when she was commissioned to design the interior of a manor house, marking the true beginning of her acclaimed career. Emma's creative inclinations stem from a family history of artists and designers, including a great-grandfather who was a member of the Royal Academy of Arts and a mother who was a keen interior decorator. This early exposure to creativity, combined with her habit of redecorating her own room as a child, set her on a path towards design, despite initially pursuing a business studies degree. As her business expanded, she relocated her studio to a meticulously renovated 16th-century pub, The White Hart, on the Wiltshire/Gloucestershire border. This unique space, opened in 2014, not only accommodates her growing team of 30 but also provides an inspiring and comfortable environment for clients. A key aspect of Sims-Hilditch's work is her team's thoughtful and sensitive approach to renovating listed buildings. They take pride in preserving architectural heritage, integrating original features while reimagining layouts to suit modern living without compromising historical integrity. This commitment to heritage preservation is evident in projects like the renovation of a 500-year-old, nine-bedroom family home. Her designs prioritize longevity and quality over fleeting trends, ensuring that each scheme is client-focused and built to last. The studio also emphasizes the reuse and preservation of existing furniture, incorporating clients' pieces to add character and personality to each home, alongside curating items from local suppliers and antique dealers. The Sims Hilditch studio offers a comprehensive design service, encompassing furniture and furnishing specifications, a dedicated procurement team, and an in-house interior architectural service that covers spatial planning, kitchen and bathroom design, and bespoke joinery. Emma draws inspiration from museums, art galleries, and hotels, notably La Bastide de Marie Hotel in Provence, which influenced her own Wiltshire home. The English countryside also serves as a profound source of inspiration, with elements like color palettes reminiscent of rolling hills and timber floors inspired by woodlands often integrated into her designs. She advocates for exploring surroundings, whether in the countryside or urban centers like London, to spark creativity. Emma acknowledges the impact of technology on the design industry, embracing online platforms for outreach while emphasizing the importance of face-to-face meetings for personal connection. Her design icons include Axel Vervoordt, admired for his understated, natural, and elegant aesthetic. Currently, the studio is engaged in diverse projects, from new builds to extensive refurbishments, including a nine-bedroom family home in Northern England, a chalet in the Swiss Mountains, and various properties in London and the Cotswolds. Emma has also appointed Louise Wicksteed as Design Director, allowing her to focus on the creative direction of the business, while her family continues to demonstrate a strong creative lineage in fine art and film set decoration. #EmmaSimsHilditch #InteriorDesign #EnglishStyle #HistoricRenovation #DesignAesthetic #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalHeritage #TimelessDesign #WiltshireDesign