Robb Report launches the new publication Robb Report Home & Style at a private event in Los Angeles

Robb Report launches the new publication Robb Report Home & Style at a private event in Los Angeles

Florence de Dampierre for John Richard

Norris Home Furnishings, Naples

I was researching some accessories today for a new project in Talis Park, and came across this fabulous zebra table by Florence de Dampierre! My old friend and colleague, the late Tice Alexander, used to rave about Florence, and her beautiful collection of antique linens- so, I was delighted to find her new collection of furniture and accessories for John  Richard in our source library today.

Above, the table, very similar to one that had belonged to the late Billy McCarty, about whom we had posted here on January first of this new year.

Please contact me if you are interested in this table, and I'll be happy to discuss it with you.  Enjoy! Cheers!  DF ***** (239) 263-0580

Inspiration: House Beautiful February 2014

Dashing Newell Turner

I greatly enjoyed devouring my newly received copy of "House Beautiful" today- from Miles Redd, to Sara Gilbane, and Steven Gambrel, the issue was a tour de force of eclectic, modern color!  I loved seeing old friend Carolina Irving's fabric called Andaluz on the outside backs of dining chairs from Hickory Chair too...MUST have samples of that "stat"! 

As well, I was drenched in color and pattern today,

when Ms. Holly Blalock, from the C.R. Laine company presented her ideas and inspirations to us in a seminar here in our Norris showroom.

I enjoyed her talk, and it was fun to see where her inspirations come from, sometimes in the form of FOOD!  We were in Miami last night for dinner, and Magnum lounge there has great cuisine and live music too.  Try it - you'll like it.  I was reminded of the time years ago when I had a clients dining room glazed in a delicious raspberry sorbet color!

We then varnished over the glaze and made it quite lacquered looking, which was delightful, fun, and fresh.  Enjoy!  Cheers!  DF ***** 

 

A 1950's Enclave Revival, Naples

New construction in The Moorings, Naples

The Moorings, in Naples, Florida is undergoing a dramatic transformation!  Almost every other of the original so-called "Florida-Michigan" homes are being razed, these modest all on one level ranch style homes are being replaced with stunning Santa Barbara, Bermuda, and English Regency inspired houses, much larger and more imposing.  The one shown above, was recently completed, and has west facing bay views, towards the Gulf of Mexico.

The house shown above, recently completed, has seven cupolas- and is also a waterfront property. This image only shows a portion of the facade.  The older homes are being completely dwarfed, but apparently they won't be around much longer- it's shocking to see how fast they are going- I counted 22 new houses in a three block area-!

I caught the morning sun on this "Old Florida" beauty- one of the many styles being built in my neighborhood- creating a visual variety, and yet with a certain consistent look, most likely created due to the stringent hurricane and flood zone regulations for the architects and builders.  I'm hoping, since I do live here, that perhaps I'll be involved in one of these new projects soon!  Cheers!
DF *****

2009 Castle Rock Pinot Noir

Courtesy Bleu Provence, Naples

I've been enjoying this "New World" Pinot Noir lately, and thought to share it with you, dear readers.  A product of the central coast of California- it's described as a "Burgundian varietal, with an elegant, medium body, and aromas of cherry, tea, and herbal spice".  Enjoy!

I found the above image on New York Social Diary, and thought it most inspiring- a tablescape from the Manhattan home of young Christopher Stevens, a New York decorator- he reminds me of my old colleague, the late Randall Ridless. Christopher has also worked for my old friend and FIT class mate, Marcy Masterson.  Kudos to Christopher, his chic Hermes' orange flat is quite charming, and with an enviable location, in the west village, or vill-lahge as we used to call it. Stay tuned for more exciting news on DFS ! 

Cheers !  DF ***** 

Dr. Connors, I Presume, The Writers Domain

A benefit for First Book Collier

Image courtesy amazon books

The latest book from Dr. Michael Connors, our guest for the evening

Thursday, January 9th, we're attending a gala preview for First Book Collier, www.firstbookcolliercounty.org 

hosted by my employer, Norris Home Furnishings, in partnership with Barnes and Noble.

There will also be an open house on January 11th.

Eleven writers will be in attendance, and a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the charity, supporting childrens education here.  Jackie Drake and I have created a cozy setting within our Naples showroom for Dr. Connors to sign copies and chat with the guests.  Cheers!  DF *****  

 

Zebra in Decor' Dean Farris

Dean Farris residential project

I created this dramatic room about ten years ago, and the client already owned the zebra rug.  We've recently changed the rug to a leopard wilton, as well as changing the low table to a glass one, and simplifying the mirror detail above the mantel.  DF ***** 

Zebra in Decor' Michael Taylor

Michael Taylor Interior Design

The Stephen Salny book, Michael Taylor Interior Design, is a great source of inspiration- DF ***** 

Zebra in Decor' Billy McCarty

Billy McCarty foyer

Grey seems to be very prevalent as a color palette 
 for 2014...as in Dior grey !  DF *****