Morning Light, Early November

My new slipper chairs from Linda, Calling It Home, fabric is Robert Allen

Even though I don't shoot film anymore, I still get a kick out of using my phone for images with instant gratification...and I'm still crazy for these ultra-chic chairs that my new friend Linda gave me recently.  They're now flanking my early 20th century (circa 1915) chesterfield in newer buttery caramel colored leather.  I caught the beautiful early morning light and wanted to share it with you.



My Albert Hadley low table, with red lacquer tray

Love this image, the small bohemian glass vases were another gift, from dear friend Roberta.  Billy bought the small Imari bowl for me in a shop in Key West, that had moved down from Greenwich Village. 
As I enjoy my morning coffee here, I think of all the wonderful memories of dear Albert, and when he gave me this table while on his way to the trash bin to throw it out.  It was lacquered in a khaki-bamboo gold color and I simply brushed it with a gloss black paint.  Black accents with taupe walls and beige carpet is a smart combination, and gives a nice masculine atmosphere to my small flat here in Naples on the gulf.  Enjoy!  DF ***** 

DFID (c) 2015

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A Cozy Dinner For Six

Dinner at home, chez Joe Rosen

Really, what could possibly be nicer than having some supper with old friends, in the intimate privacy of their home?  Not to mention the divine drinks and hors d'oeurves before!  Our wonderful New York pal, Joe had us over last night for a delicious and fun evening.  I loved his table setting so much I just had to post about it! Look at his creative placement.  I especially loved the peachy melon color he chose to use, and even suggested painting the tray ceiling the same rosy shade.  Oh, and lets not forget the dessert(s), and after dinner brandy and coffees!  Joe never lets his guests leave hungry!

Here's handsome Joe, relaxing in the living room, while Jimmy preps in the kitchen.  His decor' in Naples is very warm and eclectic. As I have mentioned in previous posts on JR, he once worked with starchitect, Phillip Johnson, and he MET Rose Cumming!  Not to mention a long list of other notable luminaries. What a great guy!  Below, a close-up of the console table arrangement in his living room.  

He played with seashells, palm tree lamps, faux aloe plants, and Asian pieces with an empire style mirror. He has stacks of books and current magazines everywhere, which create such a cozy, warm, and friendly atmosphere. Another thing I love about hanging out chez Joe, is the down filled cushions in his sofas and chairs!  Plus, his selection of cheeses and things to drink is totally gracious and fabulous- it's all so yummy and so good.  Coup de grace: TWO DESSERTS !!  An Italian New York Style cheesecake, and a layered ganache of chocolate, cream, and fruit!  DIVINE!  Thanks again Joe, for a wonderful, fun, relaxing, and elegant evening in your home away from home.  Cheers!  DF *****

 

A Decorative Thanksgiving!

William (Billy) turned the chair out!

One of the great pleasures of my long career in decorating and design has been showing others, as I have been shown, what makes me inspired- and the intangible gratification one experiences in doing so.  Billy has become like my own Libby Cameron, whom Albert fondly referred to as "his monster" meaning he created another decorator with a feverish talent.  Billy had the audacity to ask if he could "critique" my new room- which of course I love- and so he suggested a very minor and simple change- just moving one chair further back- which I then turned away towards the small settee- shown above- minor but MAJOR! I love it!  Tice Alexander once did the same thing, in my East 66th street flat, he just started shoving my furniture around- and of course it was so much more interesting when he left- I was simply thrilled and mesmerized!  As private jets come in for the landing every five minutes (I'm in the flight path) Billy prepares to fly off via private jet (known as a "P-J" to certain trophy wives) to the Bahamas- while dear Mary and I will dine at fabulous Ridgeway's- here in gorgeous Naples (see earlier posts on Ridgeway's).

Billy in a relaxed pose

 I took this shot of my talented protege' relaxing on the cognac leather chesterfield, and I love how he tucked his legs up just like Sister Parish always did while sipping vodka laced with clamato juice...and doesn't that little "baroque" table look great sitting on the new ikat printed jute rug? I think so.  Everybody, have a great Thanksgiving wherever you are- even if it's not a holiday you might normally celebrate- Enjoy!  Cheers!  DF *****