J'Adore Decour

A Flare for Drama

2009-09-28T13:00:00.000-04:00

In my searching for an interior decorator for a friend of mine moving into her own home in Atlanta, I came across the work of designer Charles Neal. And if nothing else, Mr. Neal certainly has a flare for drama. Eac of these designs is from his contemporary design portfolio. I absolutely adore the first room. One dramatic piece, such as this gargantuan headboard can create a feeling in a space that doesn't need all the compliments portrayed here by Neal... Though his spaces are fantastic.

Haute Hotels : The Soho Hotel, London

2009-09-25T12:00:00.002-04:00

If you have the urge to splurge overseas with a lovely little boutique hotel, I have a recommendation: The Soho, in London. While its lovely, and probably a bit cheaper, to stay at a Hyatt or Marriott; and while the Savoy or the Biltmore have the promise of posh, boutique hotels are quaint, beautiful and oh-so-Unique-Chic. The Soho is located near Leafy Soho Square on a quiet street between Dean and Wardour Streets in the heart of London’s entertainment neighbourhood, according to their website. All that is well and good, but please... check out the decor... j'adore.

The pink couch with the muted, traditional art is a wonderful contrast.

The raw wood coffee table has me salivating... LOVELY touch.

Here the china is all the decoration this decor needs.

Gorgeous use of pastels and simple shapes. This is a beauitful space.

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The use of color here, and accents like the sculpture in the corner, make this room pop. I would love to wake up here every morning.

Now, I would never have put the patterns on the walls and drapes with this color couch and or this rug... but it just works. Decor twists and turns... love it!

J'adore Teo Jasmin Part 2

2009-09-23T12:00:00.002-04:00

OK so the last time I reviewed Teo Jasmin... I showed you the kinds of looks you could achieve with Teo J... now I will show you the kinds of furniture and pieces that you can purchase through Teo that will be the pieces of the Funky-Chic decor puzzle. This is just the tip of their iceberg but what a tip it is.

Their pieces have a hip and chic sense of fun - Eurostyle! The cityscapes are my absolute favorite. I could definitely see decorating a sitting room or a teen's room with an accent chair like this... or with pillows from each major city they've visited. Very Funky Chic... J'adore!

J'adore Teo Jasmin

2009-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

Decor lovers I have been turned on to the decorification of "Funky-Chic." That is the phrase I have coined for Teo Jasmin. Teo Jasmin is a unique and lovely little decor company that I will be highlighting twice this week, because just one post is not enough.

Teo Jasmin makes georgeous photos and lovely cityscapes a part of your decor-scape at home. They have pillows, wall art, chairs and loveseats with images that can compliment more than you think. If you are looking for a little adventure, an element of surprise in your home, try these decor ideas on for size....

The Bold and the Beautiful ... Decor style

J'adore.

Spruce it UP!

2009-09-17T13:00:00.001-04:00

White Blaze Chairs

I was reading the NYTimes and ran across an article about two women from Texas that collect old furniture and Spruce it up! They strip the furniture to bare bones and then reupholster it to DRAMATIC change and effect. Their sense of style is elegant while still being a bit funky. They can breath new life into old decor... check them out! (click the links below the images to be directed to their Etsy page.)

Constellation Wingback

Cupid Chairs

Antique Lion Head Settee and Chair Set

White Knight Victorian Sofa

Chair Couture

2009-09-15T12:47:00.002-04:00

Watching clips from last year's fashion week inspired me to find the Project Runway challenge of Decor. Watching those artists at work, you think, "how are they going to make clothing out of that ficus?" BUT Low and Behold an hour later you are thinking... I might wear that dress if it weren't made of tea leaves and glue! Well viola! Here is some of the closest to the avant garge as decor can get. I present, Chair Couture. Even decor has its fabulously-over-the-top!

Shaggy = Divine.

Alice-in-Wonderland, yes?

Dreamy.

Talk about walking on water...how about lounging on it.

and the Coupe de Grass....

It takes a BRAVE soul but ... J'ADORE!

Cohler Cravings Continued

2009-09-09T12:00:00.000-04:00

I have decided to give you some more Cohler Eye-Candy. How fabulous can a bathroom be? Let's find out.

Can't you just picture a fabulous book, a glass of cabernet and this bathroom making your life just a little easier?

I adore the simple white with the one dominating yet calming image as the focal point.

This space is actually graceful, if such a thing can be. The striped tile walls give it a feeling of grandeur. Boldly but tastefully done!

Wooden sinke with the lucite towel rack... yes.

I covet Cohler.

Cohler Cravings

2009-09-07T12:00:00.001-04:00

I am absolutely IN LOVE with Eric Cohler designs. His use of muted colors, hanging and sculpted art, patterns and asymmetry are PERFECT (to me at least.) Just look...this is just the TIP of the iceberg with this talented designer.

Here its as if three different decorating genres have married one another and had the perfect decor love child. No wonder he has been dubbed the Mix Master. J'adore.

Wall papering with photographs. I have seen this attempted before, but here Cohler succeeds.
The bed curtains... lovely.

Perhaps the most innovative and lovely idea I have found thus far in my blogging. A completed crossword puzzle on the ceiling of the library. I covet!

I LOVE the aerial veiw. The curtains are a muted pattern, ever so chic. The details in using the grass on the shelving and the porthole mirrors are a fantastic contrast to the angles and lines on the floor.

Meet Salina Lake

2009-09-04T00:08:00.003-04:00

So I discovered Ms. Selina Lake's talent for beautiful spaces about a year ago before I had to take my hiatus from blogging. Seriously, this woman's use of color is awesome. I love the fact that she adds little unexpected colorful and fun details to her creations. For instance her use of pennant flags below is simply adorable and a fantastic idea for making your summer home kitchen pop... or to add a little color to a party.

OK this next space, is what I would consider the perfect beach house child's room. The the color is just enough to be playful but not so much that its overwhelming. PS, I adore the polka dot detailing...

Would you just love to do this with mom's or grandma's favorite old dress? The one that reminds you that they were young once and makes you wish you had known about when it was your size. Lovely idea.

This last living room is girly-chic heaven. The hot pink chair is a fabulous find. The curtains are a very cool and funny little touch. I am in love with the white hard wood and her homage to the UK pillows. Sign me up!

J'adore the FLOR

2009-09-01T10:23:00.008-04:00

Flooring is one of the most important aspects of a space, clearly. Why not make it fun and funky? In my exploration I found FLOR, a wonderful online rug shop that has taken modular to the floor. Their floor design ideas are affordable and dynamic because you can create your own floor designs to suit your room to a tee. Whether its a child's toy room or mod living room that needs that little extra oomphf FLOR seems to have what you need. Check out some of their designs. Just click on the links for pricing and info.

Jadore le FLOR...

I some people shy away from a good shag. I say go for it! =)

Shaggy Sheep 1

So, I was in love the simplicity of the single red circle on the gray floor, but then I kept going. Look at the fantastic looks that FLOR has created with this single piece...
The Button Rug

Nice eh?

SO, I am not normally a fan of the animal print in a room (though with restraint and in the right decor it can be fabulous), but this is just an adorable idea and really adds something interesting to the room, no?

The Stampede

J'adore this final look. I mean the woman in the yellow dress certainly makes the photo pop...but I love the idea of a runner that can seamlessly follow your hallways and add color to the space. I think its an excellent use of modular carpeting... Way to FLOR!
The Twist & Shout

Coveted Decour

2009-08-31T12:00:00.001-04:00

When you picture an author's workstation, you see a cluttered desk full of post-its, littered with pens and crumpled up papers ... what you don't see in that picture is what you are about to witness. These are photographs of the home of artist-turned-author Douglas Coupland by Martin Tessler for The New York Times. I take no credit for the photos, I just want to bring to your attention the innovation being photographed.

Coupland has taken random household items like rolls of thread, puzzle pieces, paper plates, dice and made them a part of his fabulous decor. Seriously, his next book should be on the art of interior decor.

The four round disks on the side of the kitchen island are paper plates. Love it!

Spools of thread. How simple and ingenious is that!

The shelf below holds pieces to a building kit.

The colorful display to the left in the photo are dice....

And who doesn't need an enormous tide bottle to round out their sculpture collection.

Eclectic LOVE. (Please note the photo of the wrestler flying over the ropes - fan-flying-tastic!)

J'adore Patrick J. Baglino Jr.

2009-08-28T14:00:00.000-04:00

Coming to you from The District and being the decor fiend that I am, I have naturally heard of Mr. Patrick Baglino of the vibrant Dupont Circle area. His designs have been featured in DC magazine twice and I find him to be absolutely fabulous!

He has an amazing sense of classic style. And his use of color and texture are both subtle and rich at the same time. I just love the way he uses small textured accents, as with the lamp featured below... and the use of the patterned wall paper in the half bath is just adorable. Many people would be afraid to use a pattern like that in such a small space, but it just WORKS!

Hats Off, Mr. Baglino! Hats Off!

J'adore...

Domenech Dominion

2009-08-27T12:45:00.000-04:00

I am quite literally in awe of both the photography of Domenech and his subjects. These interior designers are unbelievable in their use of artistry and color. Then the way Domenech captures the spaces with the PERFECT lighting really gives these room the sense of being frozen memories or scenes from a film shot in those impossibly beautiful homes inhabited by the super rich and tasteful. All I can say is ... "wow."

J'adore...

I'm BAAAAACK

2009-08-26T14:00:00.006-04:00

Hello my fellow decour buffs!

I cannot believe that it has been nearly a year since I have posted on j'adore. I would like to apologize for my long absence without explanation. I took on a new job and moved into a new home...and unfortunately, I was unable to post the way I wanted to but my love of decor is STILL alive and aloft. In short, I'm back. I found the following photographs of some spaces that I think are just simple and wonderfully elegant from Architectural Digest.

What I love about these spaces is the subtle detailing and mixing of styles. In this first room, the element that was most intriguing for me is the earthen pot sitting at the base of the steps, adding a bit of texture to a room that is all smooth lines and angles. Also, check out the floating wall. This is a fantastic way to break up the space in a room without breaking continuity and creating the look of a larger space. Definitely going to experiment with this!
This next space I fell for because it seems to be the polar opposite of the one above. This room is all texture and earth with some clean lines added in for contrast with the bed, chair and flooring. Excellent use of contrast if you ask me!

The kitchen below is my dream country home space. Leaving the exposed beams is an excellent way to incorporate the country with the modern (not surprisingly, this was the name of the feature article in A.D.)

Well for my first post back, I hope that you enjoyed the spaces. You WILL be seeing me around again and MUCH more often with spaces J'adore!

Moodie's Mood for Decour

2008-10-28T20:07:00.001-04:00

Sorry I have been a bit absent everyone... its been a hectic month!

Again, searching the web for decor to die for... I found Lucyina Moodie, an interior stylist, who's looks are fresh, clean and absolutely beautiful. Should I ever be rich enough to own a perfect beach home in the Hamptons, I know exactly who will be doing my decorating.

Look at the details! Floweret pillows... crooked set mugs...book lined staircase...dining chairs with sashes... and my personal fav - a chandelier in the sun room. Think how stunning that must be under a night sky - J'adore it ALL.

Fabrique Fab

2008-10-26T18:42:00.001-04:00

Check out this fantastic fabric decour. Paint, wallpaper, leather and wood take a backseat today. Beautiful things can be done with fabric, patterns and cloth. They add a texture and a vibrancy to any room. I love what each of these designers have done with fabric and patterns... beautiful...

Twig Hutchinson

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Design

Designer's Guild

Illuminate.

2008-10-24T20:38:00.001-04:00

These pieces speak for themselves. All I can do is tell you where to take a closer look and which geniuses created them...

By Hudson Furniture Inc. Breathtaking. Build an entire space around a chandelier. Top Design just did this, but their pieces weren't nearly this fabulous...

Artemide. Yes, they look like they belong on the set of Star Trek, but still... wow. This first one looks like illuminated mercury suspended in mid-air...

Old World Chic

2008-10-23T00:20:00.003-04:00

Introducing...Stylist Twig Hutchinson... When I was looking at these photos they looked like a photographers portfolio. That's because Twig helps clients stylize their furniture lines and gives advice on future collections. Now I know my dream job... *sigh*... Jadore.

What Twig has done with these spaces is gorgeous. The photographer has done an absolutely amazing job which only enhances the environment... It reminds me of an old Italian village (a la Under the Tuscan Sun)... all vintage... all old world chic...

The pale blue of the walls, the bold marigold dress... red tiled floor... perfection.

Old world, wall-in basin? I want it!

Fantastic headboard.

Camera angle here is amazing, like a Escher painting... look at the antique paint and detailing on the ceiling... wow.

I LOVE the look of a free standing tub. It makes me want to light candles and have a glass of cabernet in the bath.

Henderson Homes

2008-10-21T17:10:00.002-04:00

Recently I came across the work of Shawn Henderson. An interior designer from New York. I love his spaces. They have a lived in, home-y feel while still being airy and open. Henderson also uses color in fantastic ways. The palette of the spaces featured below both compliment and frame the major art pieces chosen for each room.

J'adore....

Riveting Decour

2008-10-20T08:42:00.006-04:00

In my searching for my next blog topic I found Bilhuber and Associates. Jeffery Bilhuber has designed for such big names and companies as Conde Nast, Anna Wintour, Iman & David Bowie, Elsa Peretti... I could go on! His designs are sophisticated and rich without being overpowering. Color schemes are complex and inviting and his use of detailing is unbelievable.

Many designers have a signature. Some little something that they add to the design world which places their fingerprint on a space. Some use color in specific ways, some love texture or specific patterns like the Burberry of the design world. One of Bilhuber's signatures (as there can be more than one) is Rivets.

Rivets? Who would have thought to use rivets on the walls or the floor of a room?! But look what he has done with these spaces with simple linear patterns built into the rooms. Just... rivets.

Jadore the Details....

J'adore Rustique

2008-10-18T10:34:00.002-04:00

Cool tones, aged wood and tea roses create the perfect rustic home feel. These rooms look like they belong in scenes from A Good Year, which was a very mediocre movie with fabulous photography and decor. Spaces like these, created by Sandy Koepke, make you feel like you are living in some quaint little town in Provence, no?

Jadore...

Heart Desire to Inspire

2008-10-18T09:32:00.003-04:00

I need to take a moment to say a huge J'adore Decour thanks to the creators of the fabulous blog...

I am especially grateful for their taking the time to check out my blog... Many many thanks to you!

Bourgeois Bohemia

2008-10-16T12:42:00.001-04:00

I was poking around in the best decor magazine EVER, Elle Decor (haha). And came across some amazing vintage decor treats on Bourgeois Boheme. I can picture them in an old SoHo loft style apartment. Exposed brick, dark woods and vintage Decor. Fantastic finds.

Catching the Decour Bug... Literally.

2008-10-15T10:52:00.006-04:00

If you are anything like me, the prospect of having an insect of ANY kind in your home is borderline horrifying. Let's put it this way, the Orkin Man and I are good friends. (This little tidbit will become important when you see what my next featured designer has in store.)

When I first looked at Brad Ford's designer portfolio I thought, wow, he ties nature into these rooms in the most subtle ways. (Just look at the accent table below... fabulous, no?) Then I saw the wall paper in each room and thought, wow... it really pops off the screen! The detailing and color of the insects on the walls must be amazing.

Then I realized, its not just wall paper...

...The bugs are real.

Brad has taken creative decor to a new level here, if you ask me. The idea of actually using insects as accent decor ... wow. I am speechless. Is this idea creepy or brilliant? You tell me...

The Gorgeous Guild

2008-10-13T08:53:00.002-04:00

I have become more than a little obsessed with the Designer's Guild. Their uses of color and pattern is the epitome of Victorian chic. Here are some fabulous couches I couldn't help but share.

Haute Hotels - Gramercy Park

2008-10-11T10:36:00.002-04:00

I try to spread the love of decor around, but as a native New Yorker I will always have a soft spot for the my city that never sleeps. Gramercy Park Hotel has been reviewed by the New York Times and Vogue for its decor choices. The owner of this historic NY hotel invited artist Maarten Baas to be a part of the design team. Its no wonder this hotel has the perfect mix of avant garde and artistic class.

Rich, full, invigorating colors pervade every space and frankly I am DYING to stay there just for the surroundings. Can you blame me?

J'adore the Haute Hotels...

Decour in the City - Pheonix, AZ

2008-10-09T12:37:00.000-04:00

The Desert Botanical Garden - The Nature of Glass

Every once in a while, I like to get my fill of virtual culture and find out what is happening in the art world outside of DC. In my sifting, I found some breath-taking images from an installation at the Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona.

The artist, Dale Chihuly, has created some of the most unique glass sculptures I have ever seen. They are interspersed throughout the garden and the effect is amazing. The bright colors and shapes are the perfect complement to the landscaping of the Garden.

Amazing... no?

Aspiring Spotlight

2008-10-08T12:55:00.007-04:00

Through my MySpace page I have found some truly inspiring and interesting fellow lovers of decor. One of the first that wrote to me about his decor creations was The Lightstyler. He asked that I look at his work and frankly it deserves to be shared. I could say that I was doing him a solid, but really I should be thanking him for a gorgeous new blog topic.

The artist, and he is an artist, hails from Germany and the images you see below might appear to be freestanding glass sculptures or photographs of some being in the cosmos...

...but really they are up close images of light fixtures and lamps made by hand!

Fabulous...no?

Door Decour

2008-10-07T12:00:00.000-04:00

It's all about the little things, right? Fun little details are what make decor worth while... Check these out... I found them in Domino Magazine. Great door decor fun, all for less than $100.00!

Simply Beautiful Spaces

2008-10-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Searching for the next feature on J'adore, I have found some simply beautiful spaces.

This first image is from one of my favorites... The Designer's Guild. Sometimes I think that if Betsey Johnson had become an interior decorator this guild would be masterpiece collection. I went on Betsey's site and found images of her inspiration hideaway Betseyville - I think I may have hit the nail on the head.

These next two were designed by a new found favorite Martyn Lawrence - Bullard. This design group shows amazing use of color and texture through muted patterns in its spaces.

... this dining room has a fantastic use of scale that creates a beautiful effect. The sheer size of the ceiling installations just MAKE this space. Also, I love the way the focal point of the eye level space, linear in the straight line pattern of the dining chairs, is contrasted with the spherical , textured chandeliers...

This space is by Male*Cahlin Designers. I chose it because I love the wood ceiling, gorgeous art piece and magenta head and foot dining chairs. Splashes of color make this space interesting.

J'adore beautiful spaces...

Targeting Decor

2008-10-04T11:00:00.001-04:00

I am a firm believer in the use of creative discount items to create chic looks. Quiet as its kept, Target, when you know how and where to look, can give you lovely rooms, interesting lines and a wide array of decor options. Since we all need to save money, periodically I will give you rooms I create with just Polyvore and an internet connection to Target.com.

Just click here to see each item and its cost

Library Decour

2008-10-03T11:00:00.001-04:00

OK... so as an avid reader I like to display my books as much as the next girl. A wall of books in your office or library can add a certain element of decor in and of itself. Rows and rows of books in honor of the literature you love... With that in mind, have you ever color coordinated your lastest titles to match your decor? Like this...

This decorator has enhanced this entire room with Book Cover Decor and they didn't have to raid Barnes and Noble to do it. Check this out...

This entire site Book Decor, is dedicated to creating this look for you, your home, your movie set, whatever... pretty nifty if you ask me. Though, I think I will keep picking my lit for content rather than color.

Wall Flower

2008-10-02T11:00:00.000-04:00

I am always looking for new and innovative ideas in decor. I was on one of my fav sites and found this wonderful room with a fantastic decor idea.... Wall Flowers. Honestly, its simple, creative, divine... in my opinion. Best of all, we can do this at home. With no more than a visit to the local arts & crafts store we could create this look for ourselves.

The flowers really pop against the rich color of the walls. However, this would work beautifully with white walls and pastel flowers as well... its up to you!

J'adore new ideas

Quotidian things - Unusual Art

2008-10-01T19:12:00.002-04:00

I have been scouring the NY Times for the next big artist or inspiring piece of art and I came across this. These are sculptural art installations made from everyday materials and regular household items. Honestly I was blown away to discover what these pieces were actually composed of.

Its amazing how the artist had the foresight to understand the effect that these items would have at a larger scale. Check them out...

Styrofoam cups

Toothpicks

Plastic Cups

Paper

J'adore...

Eco-Love

2008-09-30T09:32:00.003-04:00

Today the spotlight is on Iannone Design. This eco-friendly furniture designer is based out of Philadelphia and produces some of the most charming and naturally beautiful pieces I have seen in a long time.

Ianonne makes and varnishes all the pieces you see by hand and they are constructed of all organic materials. The graphic designs and natural tones create a clean,modern feel. I love the wooden inlays and the use of different tones to create texture and patterns... gorgeous.

Fun Finds J'adore

2008-09-28T14:02:00.002-04:00

I'm BAAAACK! Sorry for my absence... it has been a crazy week! So here we go!

Here are some fun furniture finds I have hunted down around the net. Most of these were found on Plush Pod. I wish I were brave enough to own some of these myself.

Jellyfish chairs

Musical Chair

The Real Book Shelf

Kicky Benches

J'adore la salle de bains

2008-09-24T00:30:00.002-04:00

Never let where you bathe become the forgotten space. Ladies know that the bathroom is where we go to preserve our pretty and wash the day away. The WC is often the last room we think to decorate, but take some time and look at these dramatic designs for some inspiration.

As featured in Elle Decor... The simplicity of the lines and shapes of this room gives it a clean, very elegant feel.

As featured in FromEurope.com ... I love the geometrical shapes of the towel rack and counter.

As featured in idealstandard ... Don't be afraid of a bold colored accent wall in your bathroom, even in a small space. The plum wall and accents with metal flooring makes for a fabulously chic and modern WC. Also, you have to love the space saved with wall mounted sinks and toilets. Its a European look and function that we should adopt ASAP.

As featured in idealstandard ... If you like a more traditional feel (ie: white walls and accents) intricate tiling can be an excellent way to add a new element to the style of your bathroom.

As featured in ideal standard ... No space? Decour the floor! This subtle flooring accent really makes this room.

Targeting Decour

2008-09-23T11:00:00.000-04:00

Chic furnishings are not only for the privileged. Everyone should be able to come home and enjoy their living space. I find that if you really know how to mix, mingle and get creative you can create fabulous home looks at your local department stores. Target is one of my favorite places for great decor finds.

Creating the right room in places like this is like shopping at Marshall's or Nordstrom Rack. It may take some time, but when you find those pieces buried in folds not only do you look amazing, you may even be able to buy a little more, or save for a rainy day; and people, its raining. Bail-outs, buy-outs, bancruptcy, oh my!

Never fear though... your decour doesn't need to suffer.... Here is a Target living room I created... take it home and have some fun.

J'adore for less

(click here to find names and prices for all the items you see)

The Future of Furniture?

2008-09-22T11:00:00.000-04:00

These pieces are made by a company called Driade. I found myself gawking at them a few days ago thinking, I don't know whether to tag these under abstract art or modern decor. In my opinion they are a little of both.

The simple curvatures and lines make them chic and sleek. They look like props out of a lost episode of Star Trek, but damn are they cool!

J'adore Hunt

2008-09-20T10:51:00.002-04:00

Simple palettes and thematic spaces can be boring, beiges and browns if not done right can be drab... Holly does it RIGHT.

Holly Hunt's use of earth tones and textures breathe life into these rooms with muted elegance and charm.

My favorite elements, present in all the rooms, is the natural lines and patterns. Wicker chairs, log accent walls, the unfinished wood tables, the shag mirror... all fantastic and add a warm and cohesive feel to the rooms.

J'adore le Hunt

J'adore le Whimsey

2008-09-19T13:59:00.006-04:00

I found these adorable, hand painted, children's pieces on Etsy and couldn't refuse them. I thought that looks like something straight out of Through the Looking Glass... low and behold the seller's shop is called Mad Tea Party Furniture.

While these may be a bit loud for the living room, they are the perfect accent piece in a child's room. Picture your little girl's pink room and princess bedspread and one of these piece by her bed. Terminally cute! These are potential future-vintage keepers in my book...

Louis Carroll would be proud.

J'adore le Whimsical...

I Want Candy

2008-09-17T12:00:00.003-04:00

The movie Marie Antoinette may not have been historically accurate, but it certainly was candy for the eyes. From the fabulous shoes, which I understand were made especially for the film by Manolo Blahnik, to the lovely decor, which made me want to watch again -- on mute. The colors throughout the film were rich and vibrant. Ornate patterns, designs and subtle detailing from floor to ceiling just made it beautiful to watch.

When I saw these fabulous rooms put together by the Designers Guild, I just HAD to share... does any one know if they are the genius behind the set design?

Haute Hotels

2008-09-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

The W hotel chain has done some breath-taking things with their decor. Just about everywhere in the world they have created fantasy spaces that will make you forget what you came for...

These photos are from the W Istanbul...

J'adore le W....

2008-09-15T11:29:00.004-04:00

Spotlight Artist - Anish Kapoor

That Side of the Mississippi - Spotlight Minnesota

2008-09-14T19:48:00.003-04:00

Last year some die hard New Yorkers picked this gorgeous pad out in the Mid-West and worked wonders with it. The exposed wood, brick and steel of this old flour mill in Minnesota are complimented by sleek and modern style choices. I found this article in The Times and couldn't resist sharing.

J'adore that side of the Mississippi...
or at least this apartment and the genius that decorated it...

First Comes Art... part 2

2008-09-14T02:13:00.003-04:00

If you want to create space similar to the rooms I posted yesterday, here are some fabulous finds from Design Shop and hivemodern.com... Simply click the images to find source and price information...

First Comes Art, Then Comes Decour...

2008-09-12T21:29:00.002-04:00

Avid art enthusiasts, such as myself, have designed entire rooms around a piece of art. Art can be used to complement the palette of a space, to round out the feeling of the room or it can be the center piece of your design image. Each of the following rooms, featured in Metropolitan Home, were designed to around a single piece of art.

The white walls and minimalist flooring (stained, polished concrete) does not compete with the work displayed. The decor was put together by Male-Cahlin partners.

J'adore...

-The single psychedelic accent chair is fabulous...

Dining chairs speak for themselves... the white wall pieces add to the aesthetic of the space without taking away from the focal point...

Loving the white bean rug... white rugs - impractical though they may be - are gorgeous, especially against a dark floor....

Floor to ceiling windows give amazing light which is crucial if a work of art is the centerpiece of your room. Again, we see the white wall sculptures... perfect...

2008-09-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

Inspired by Wallpaper?

2008-09-11T10:04:00.011-04:00

Inspired by one of the design ideas on last night's episode of Top Design, I decided to do another ode to wall paper. I used to think of wallpaper as the way cheap motels covered up the stains on their walls, however, there are some absolutely sublime things you can do with wall paper and wall coverings - used in moderation.

Embossed Wall Flats by Inhabit

I think this is a fantastic idea. Rather than have colors or patterns, these impart texture to your space... and at $86.00 at a price that won't break the bank. I particularly like the braille wall... innovative and unique.

Cole & Son Malabar at Walnut Wallpaper

Wallpaper on the ceiling? Yes! Saw it last night on Top Design and flipped for the idea. Walnut has some loud and lovely designs on their site. Unique, busy, kicky wall papers that are fun and a lively addition to most any room, but I would use on them on an accent wall only. Can you imagine an entire room covered in that ceiling? It might cause a mild seizure...

J'adore wall paper, in moderation...

Busy Bees Creativity

2008-09-10T10:02:00.003-04:00

The Bombus is doing amazing and funky things with vintage furniture. The creative duo behind Bombus (meaning 'busy bee') will take your favorite print or, in the case featured here, your favorite comic strip and create a functional piece of art for your office.

These are the perfect accent piece to a loft SOuth of HOuston street and would be darling in a child't room. Mount this chair on the wall to save space and create an interesting conversation piece. (Wall mounting chairs is risky, but done right its a fabulous twist on sculpture and decor). I love the style, the creativity, the possibilities... A Boondocks chair for my office?hmmmm...

Bombus on Etsy

J'adore those busy bees...

Decour in the City - Millennium Park

2008-09-09T19:04:00.001-04:00

Like most New Yorkers, born and bred, there is no place like NY. But from time to time I like to highlight other cities that can appreciate gorgeous decor.

Millennium Park is located near the heart of downtown Chicago. The park is a sculpture garden for the entire city to enjoy. This is a must see if you are ever in the Windy City.

Cloud Gate aka: The Bean.

Crown Fountain

Jay Pritzker Pavilion

2008-09-09T10:16:00.004-04:00

Circular Villa in the Netherlands...

Artist Noir

2008-09-08T00:40:00.003-04:00

As an aspiring black artist myself, I have to take some time and pay homage to those out there being while I'm dreaming...

J'adore The Artist

Fantasy Escape

2008-09-06T02:03:00.002-04:00

This bedroom reminds me of Alice in Wonderland or The Secret Garden come to life. The mossy green flooring and the faux hedges create the perfect fantasy escape. These are spaces that make me want to wake up to a dream.

Extreme rooms can be a fabulous ways to escape at home. But if you are looking for something that is just one step out of reality.You might try a combination like this...

Potted Willow by Crate and Barrel; Standing Plant by Crate and Barrel; Bamboo Waste Basket by Ikea; Rug by 2modern; Bedding by 2modern Signature flower light by design public; Decorative screen at Oriental Furniture.com; Decorative pin boards at design public.

J'adore a little over the top...

Illuminate

2008-09-05T19:16:00.001-04:00

Check out this wall paper by an innovative artist in his own right.

What you are looking at is not technically an art exhibit but actual functioning wallpaper. Amazing.

Its not paint... its light. Anyone who says decour is not an artform is just not paying attention... take a look at this artists work.... look familiar?

Up Against the Wall

2008-09-04T21:52:00.002-04:00

Overloaded with knickknacks, chachkahs and what-nots? Ditch the junk drawer and use a wall unit to display and hide your extras at the same time. Take your unattractive extras and put them in beautiful storage boxes and bowls that complement your space then place them in a wall unit.

Buy a funky wall unit to start and you have hidden your stuff while displaying your taste and adding to the decour of your room.

Check out these units... fabulous.

These pieces were featured at 2008 iSaloni (aka: the decorators Mecca) but there are more accessible places to create a similar look...

J'adore these looks at 2Modern...

J'adore le funky.

Technorati Tags: shelving

J'adore blanc

2008-08-29T20:28:00.011-04:00

Pure white is classic, but not for the faint of heart. A white room with brightly colored accents create feel that is vibrant and fun. Here are some that j'adore....

The white room is the perfect palette. Depending on the accents the room will take on a completely different feel... stay tuned and I will show you how to accessorize your pure palette to change the vibe....

Complete

the

look...

A color abstract

is the perfect

complement to

a clean white

space...

check out these

pieces

J'adore for Less

2008-08-27T23:39:00.011-04:00

Beautiful room. Dark, classic, relaxed. The silver accent table goes well with the dark area rug and tan lounge chairs. I think the look works best in a larger space because of the dark walls and flooring.

J'adore this look for less?

These pieces should create a similar feel that won't break your pockets.

Lighting: http://furnituredc.com/NewSite/html/lighting.html ;

Rug: http://www.spacify.com/modern_contemporary_corners_modern_rug-686-474-Bow.MROSW3.html
Chairs: www.justaccentchairs.com/
End table: http://www.matthewizzo.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=122&products_id=1882
Pillows: http://www.roomandboard.com/

Accents: www.target.com

Complete the look...

Stunning original piece I found on ebay. (Don't sleep on ebay for original work!) The tryptic has interesting, irregular angles and shapes that are the perfect complement to the solid angles of the room. It departs from the hard lines of the space, while staying true to its color scheme and tone.

Form meets Function

2008-08-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

These pieces were featured at iSaloni, the international furniture fair in Milan. With 340,000 people and a week of nothing but the world's most talented contemporary furniture designers; Decour is officially a spectator sport.

Beech upholstered in a crumpled Gobelin fabric.

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Fiberglass shell covered with polyurethane foam. The base is
lacquered steel; fabric petals are faux suede
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Removable leather cover; carved wood backrests
Fabulous.

Rainbow in Black & White

2008-08-26T12:00:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I stumbled upon the eerily beautiful and haunting work of photographer,
William Scott.

Here are some others in his collection. Feels like Dali meets Ansel Adams...
Black and White photography can compliment strong color or basic white walls in any room. Add a series of black and white photographs to a colored wall for contrast or to white walls for a clean, classic look.

J'adore this look for less?

j'adore@ Pottery Barn

j'adore@target

Santiago Calatrava - The Quadracci Pavilion

2008-08-24T22:53:00.003-04:00

Tucked away in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is one of the most beautifully avant garde buildings I have ever seen. The Milwaukee Art Museum. It was completed in 2001 and designed by spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.

The dynamic form, massive size and innovative structure are just the beginning. Calatrava designed the building to be a moving work of art. The 90 ton, 217 foot wings adorning the outside of the edifice, The Burke Brise Soleil, actually move... amazing.

See for yourself:

The Tryptic

2008-08-24T20:19:00.002-04:00

We all know bare walls are unacceptable. So, consider the tryptic.

A piece of art can finish the look of a room or become the main focal point of your space. Displaying the feeling you would like the room to convey or even simply sewing together the color palette of the room.

Tryptics are particularly interesting in that they offer options. Each piece's placement in relation to the next can be varied and create the illusion of motion or disjointedness that you may not be able to accomplish with a single unified piece.

In the case of this piece, it almost becomes more interesting when each section is taken out of its intended orientation. A single tryptic can have a more dramatic effect than three separate pieces.

blue window - mixed media acrylic - by Marin A. (for sale - serious inquiries only)

Here are some other tryptics for purchase:

(Left to Right: Night Thoughts; Palm; Elevate and Escalate)