Naples Illustrated

I was very excited to see my full page advertisement in the latest issue of "Naples Illustrated" (September issue). And, speaking of September Issue, can't wait to see the new film of that title with Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington from "Vogue". My friend James has already seen it, and loved it, read his blog, What Is James Wearing, to learn more.

Here is a shot of the room that is featured this month. I created this masterpiece of subtle understatement for one of my favorite clients here in Naples, in the Grey Oaks Country Club. For the same client, I also designed their Potomac, MD residence, as well as helping with some of their relatives homes. I am using a shot of the Living Room for my upcoming ad in the October issue, which is a home and design special. In the bedroom shot here, I used a bed from Old Biscayne Designs, under a coverlet by Ann Gish, with a custom wall finish and custom double gourd lamps. The view towards the pool and golf course is spectaular, very southern California.

Palm Desert is one of my favorite places, and I will be posting about it later in the year.

Dinner and Dame Edna

I thought it would be fun to show a "dinner a deux" table setting from my apartment in Naples, set for a light supper before catching Dame Edna at the Philharmonic in April. Dame Edna's real name is Barry Humphries, an Aussie of some repute in the theater world.

William and I enjoyed a medium Amontillado sherry, pate' campagna, tapenade, and a splash of Cabernet before heading out, served on my beautiful plates (Louvre pattern) from Limoges, and using the silver (Chinon), a pattern dating from the 19th century empire period, a favorite of the son of King Louis Philippe. The cloth draping the french '40's wine table is "Scaramouche" Lorca, made in France for Osborne & Little. DF*****

Bayou Contessa: " New York Style" Right Here in New Orleans!

Bayou Contessa: " New York Style" Right Here in New Orleans!

First post

I have been so inspired by all of the wonderful design and lifestyle blogs that have popped up recently, so, I wanted one of my own. After seeing the film Julie and Julia this summer, I was further inspired. Then, my friend and fellow designer James Andrew has a super blog called "What Is James Wearing" that I am crazy for.
James and I met in Naples, when Albert Hadley had a cottage here. Since then, we have stayed in touch, his blog reminded me that I needed to get in touch with him. If you have not seen WIJW, I highly recommend it. Very chic, fun, and a virtual tour of living in NYC through a decorator's point of view.