More Progress on the 16th Floor, Naples

I am slowly but surely approaching the completion of this condo in Naples, the bed had to be carried up all sixteen flights, as it wouldn't quite make it onto the elevator. Here are some tantalizing background shots, compliments of yours truly... and a big congratulations goes to dear friend James Andrew of NYC for his recent feature in November's issue of "House Beautiful"!

Library, Grey Oaks Country Club, Naples

I adore this library I created in Grey Oaks for my dear clients from Potomac, MD. We are in the process of freshening the room, as Mrs Parish would have said. Speaking of Mrs Parish, The Enchanted Home recently featured my favorite Palm Beach decorator, Leta Austin Foster, who is the Sister Parish of today. Enjoy these "before" shots, dear readers, friends, followers, and clients! DF *****

Stark Carpet: Leopard

I was thrilled to see the installation of the new Stark carpet for one of my Grey Oaks projects, here in sunny Naples on the Gulf. It marries beautifully with the existing furnishings, some of which we have brought in from other rooms, and adds a whole new mood to the room, making it more inviting and user friendly...just a little glimpse here for you dear readers. ENJOY! DF *****

Grey Oaks Progress!

The new room is almost finished, and here are some "progress shots" ENJOY! DF *****

October Inspirations

Sitting Room by Diane Burn

Ah, October! The month when we begin to feel the excitement of the upcoming holiday season, not to mention HALLOWEEN! When we all wish to channel Martha (Stewart) and outdo each other with our jack-o-lanterns... Here, I chose to pull some October-ish images for your inspiration and just for fun! Enjoy! DF *****

Out and About in Naples

Had a blast today, starting with seeing the great progress on the Pelican Bay project I'm helping to bring into focus, and a fun gallery opening, seeing some old colleagues and meeting some new friends. Tomorrow morning, am off to the workroom to check on window treatments, and then to Grey Oaks to check on the villa project, then back to the beautiful and calm showroom, Kreiss, featuring Interiors by Design West. Looking forward to receiving my recently ordered copy of "A Charmed Couple, the Art and Life of Matilda and Walter Gay", by William Rieder (Abrams). The life of the mind! Ah! DF *****

Work, Bravo, Glamour!

"What a dump!"

Kitchen under way

One of the things I learned in a very real way from my late friend and former associate designer, Tice Alexander, is that work is the true glamour. Work! Here, I share some more progress shots from a small unit in a Pelican Bay high rise condo (16th floor) - Enjoy! Speaking of work, I am so enamored of Rachel Zoe and her show on Bravo, The Rachel Zoe Project. I basically think that Ms. Zoe epitomizes what Tice meant, about work being the truest form of glamour and stylish living. When one loves his or her work, it becomes like a marriage, and I feel like Rachel Zoe and I are somewhat married to our careers. Our busy season is now starting, so - as Bette Davis said in "All About Eve" "Fasten your seat belts, we're in for a bumpy ride!" Work! XXOO DF *****

October 2011, New Beginnings, Bright Futures

Gosh, I'm beyond excited and pleased to be headed into my favorite month of all, OCTOBER! The weather has changed, the light went from a hot gold to a cool blue, which actually vibrates when you stare at the sky...the hot gold light melts into a blur, the winter light is super crisp and clean, reminding me of Autumn in New York, and the wonderful tingle in the air, mixed with the smell of roasting chestnuts and turning leaves, geraniums in pots... As I look back on my last fifty years of being on this planet, I realize how very fortunate I've been. The people in my life have been so incredibly interesting and really, charming and sweet in all ways possible. As Auntie Mame said, "Life is a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death!" Dear Mame meant no harm - she was just expressing her natural zest and love for all that life has to offer. The message seems to be that if we extend ourselves to others, most of the time they will meet us half way, and often we are surprised at where these relationships take us. Enjoy the day, enjoy your life, enjoy your family and friends, for in the end, that is all we really have. I wish you love, luck and much happiness! DF *****