Category Archives: decor
I am thrilled to feature my favorite textile of all time today. This hand embroidered textile, known as Otomi textiles (or sometimes called Mexican Susani or Tenango textiles) is made by the Otomi Indians of Mexico.
I’m always on the hunt for great interior design sources and, believe it or not, the Las Ventanas al Paraiso gallery will be my first call when I want to custom order this textile for a client project or myself.
I realize resort gift shops, galleries and jewelry showrooms are notorious for incredibly high prices but the Otomi textiles sold at the Las Ventanas Gallery are approximately the same price as I found them in the street bazaars of the nearby town of San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. Of course, you can’t bargain with the gift shop but you can have the added convenience of calling to order any color you’d like and shipping it to the United States with comfort.
I’ve had some pressing questions about the textile for years and was thrilled Las Ventanas al Paraiso so graciously helped me find the answers.
Where are the textiles made?
Our textiles are from Tenango de Doria, Hidalgo, Mexico.
What is the story behind this magnificent textile? How long has it been around?
It is believed that they come from ancient cave paintings, but nothing is certain. Almost all designs are creatures of fantasy.
Are they made by the Otomi Indians of Mexico? Is there more than 1 region that makes the textile?
Yes, they are made by Otomi people, that are in Hidalgo, Puebla & Queretaro.
Is the textile still handmade?
Yes, everything is handmade, you can see the stitches on the back of each piece.
What is the correct name of the textile? I’ve heard Mexican Susani, Otomi textile and Tenangos textile?
Otomi textiles would be the correct and most common name but Tenango is also accurate, as that is the most famous town that produces this work.
How long does it take to make 1 coverlet or blanket?
For a single craftier it could take up to 3 months.
Can an interior designer custom order for a client? Who should we contact?
Yes, they can make special size orders, but it might take at least 6 months to be ready. Any special order could be done right through our Gift Shop at Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
Some terrific articles and Otomi inspiration can also be found here…
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
{paint sourced from benjamin moore paint for pottery barn | cabinet | book | lamp | vases | sofa | pretty girl }
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
Unfortunately, I have total commitment issues when it comes to wallpaper. But I do love the look and there are so many beautiful patterns and colors out there it’s hard not to jump onto the wall coverings trend.
I framed this Trina Turk fabric in my hall bathroom last year. The frame is just IKEA making the commitment feel even less permanent.
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
It is my absolute pleasure to introduce to you Bernie de Le Cuona, a brilliant BlogTour NYC connection I’m thrilled to have made during our visit to DDB (Decoration & Design Building), one of the world’s destination luxury decor showrooms.
Bernie de Le Cuona is a success story in fabric design, spun by her taste for quality and her eye for craftsmanship. Known for her paisleys and her ability to make neutral palettes look distinguished, Bernie leads what is now one of the most sought after linen collections in the world today. Her simple dream was born in her kitchen in 1992 and, with no experience, Bernie made it all happen by letting her elegance and passion lead the way.
Our BlogTour group arrived at Bernie’s showroom toward the end of the day but walking in was like a breath of fresh air. With the smell of decadent candles in the air, champagne and dessert waiting, Bernie greeted us with a poised and welcoming smile. The showroom ambience exhibited the comforts of a traditional English home with a luxury Safari feel clearly achieved by Bernie’s South Africa roots.
Bernie gave us an inspirational look into her work and travel insights. I hope you enjoy.
Greatest influences in your work?
South Africa – the textures and colors of home always make it into my collections and inspire me when I’m looking for something new. Ragamuffin, one of my favourite fabrics in my last collection has colors in it that are inspired by the Protea flower (native to South Africa) and the raw, beaten up texture of it is indicative of the rugged lifestyle of the bush.
Words of wisdom for those starting a career in textiles?
Produce the unique – there is too much fabric on the market at the moment and the world is looking for the startling.
You’re known for your wide range of hand woven paisleys and rich textured materials. What is your favorite piece in your current collection?
Florence, one of our new fabrics, was one of my favourites of the latest range because it offers a more contemporary way to look at paisley and is 100% linen, which is what we’re known for. It also comes in 10 colourways and is therefore available in dark, masculine tones (my personal preference) as well as light, feminine hues.
A quote you love?
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” -Leonardo da Vinci
Do you collect anything?
I love antiques and pieces that remind me of my travels, so I have a lot of unique objects in my home that tell a story about where I’ve been in the world. I also take pictures that I blow up and frame in my house, so a lot of our artwork is very personal to the places we’ve seen; one of my favourites is a picture of lions playing in the bush in South Africa that I took the last time we were on holiday there.
How do you relax? Where do you spend your downtime?
To relax I run – exercise is such a vital part to my day and I try to go every morning before heading into the office in the parks in Windsor with my husband and my boxer Lucy. I also love to entertain and cook, which is a great way to spend weekends. If I really want to unwind, my favourite place in the world is on the Zambezi River.
You’ve traveled the world and called some spectacular places home…
Where should we stay, what should we eat and where must we visit in South Africa?
You should stay in Cape Town around the mountain; I would recommend a hotel called “The Cape Grace.” I would definitely suggest visiting a game lodge to get a taste of Africa as well as the vineyards in the Cape – they’re incredible. Seafood is delicious in South Africa and I would specifically recommend you try crayfish – it is particularly good in the Cape.
You’ve spent so much time in London, where should we stay, what should we eat and where must we visit?
I love Kit Kemp’s hotels; we had our Christmas party at The Haymarket in London and there is an amazing indoor pool with a cocktail bar and a wall covered in a giant image of a tropical sunset - it made me forget we were in the middle of winter. For a boozy lunch go to Le Caprice – it always stays the same and has the true essence of London glamour with the fashion pack and the European elite always stepping in and out of the door. If you want a light, interesting and healthy lunch I’d go to Daylesford Organic in Pimlico that allows you to sit outside and watch the passersby. One of the good places to visit (other than our showroom on Walton St.!) is The Kings Road – it is a London institution and has the Saatchi Gallery (which is a fabulous collection of modern art) as well as Guinevere, an antiques shop full of great finds which people outside of the design industry don’t really know about.
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
Have you taken the virtual tour of Veranda’s House of Windsor yet? It was the talk of summer 2011 but I finally dug in and took the virtual tour today and absorbed the breathtaking 8,000 square foot dream home located in Los Angeles.
The home is named after designer Windsor Smith, who led the project, and includes rooms designed by the following:
Peter Dunham Martyn Lawrence-Bullard Tara Shaw Candace Barnes Stephen Block Richard Hallberg Kathryn Ireland Paul Robbins Richard ShapiroThese 10 noteworthy designers managed to create a modern and sophisticated yet rustic home. Family living was at the forefront but the home is certainly fit for anyone with a love of good design.
My favorites rooms are…
The entry hallway (above) designed by Windsor Smith has a traditional cozy vibe. French doors at the end of the hall lead to the back yard and dark wood contrasts the doors that lead to the kitchen. A lovely couch makes the room feel connected to the rest of the home.
The kitchen also by Windsor Smith is casual elegance with overwhelming attention to detail. The light fixtures add a bit of glamour and island that doubles as a table perfectly suits modern family life.
So I adore this room (Windsor Smith again) but I was a little surprised to see it listed as the “family room.” Maybe my children are total heathens, but the furniture would not stand a chance against them. It just doesn’t look cozy enough for a sick day home from school on the um… white couch? But as the updated version of the stuffy formal living room… yes please!
The office (above) designed by Peter Dunham. I’m not typically a fan of leopard print but Peter made it work for me with that green desk, natural rug, and books “unintentionally” displayed on the white table.
Bedroom 3 by Tara Shaw is incredibly soothing and sophisticated. Tara chose a very simple color palette and eye-catching finishes like the Tara Shaw Swedish Rococo Martini Table (pictured above).
Go enjoy the Veranda House of Windsor 360 Tour here.
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
House Beautiful (one of the best decor magazines out there, in my opinion) hit newsstands on Monday and the May issue is devoted to “Designer Secrets.” It is packed with some amazing decorating tips from some of my favorite designers. House Beautiful was kind enough to send us over a peek at the secrets along with some beautiful photographs.
A few of my favorite tips are so simple, easy and inexpensive:
1. Richard Mishaan: If you have a painting that looks too small above your sofa, don’t center it. Offset it a few inches to the left. The negative space – called ‘ma’ – becomes part of the image.
2. Charlotte Moss: A rectangular table is ideal at about 36” in width. This allows for conversation with your neighbors to the right and left and across the table, a real bonus.
3. Jan Showers: Every room needs a touch of black, just as it needs one antique piece.
4. Mary McDonald: When you don’t have dimmers, use 15-watt bulbs to simulate candlelight. Works like magic.
5. Elissa Cullman: Don’t install carpert wall to wall in a narrow hall or narrow staircase. Instead, install the carpet as a runner and leave at least a 3” border on both sides to make the space seem wider.
6. Myra Hoefer: Always use white linens and towels. Never cross the line – always use white. They’re bleachable and they send a message of cleanliness, refinement and order.
The May issue has many more great designer secrets. In addition, HouseBeautiful.com has video interviews with several designers offering their best pieces of advice. Miles Redd is one of my favorites – he can transform any space with such thoughtful precision it’s a bit mind-boggling. I really enjoyed his video tip… you can take a peek here.
Thank you House Beautiful for sharing and keep up the great work. Your pages and online tips are a constant inspiration.
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
While enjoying the sunshine in my backyard all weekend, I starting thinking about the importance of exterior living space. As the sun starts to show it’s pretty face, the square footage of your home becomes less of an issue the more you can incorporate the great outdoors.
Some outdoor spaces that are clearly an extension of the home (above).
{photo sources House & Home / BHG / My Home Ideas / CA Home + Design }
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
I’ve had so many people ask me what the highlight of BlogTourNYC was and I have to say the Modenus My City tour with Amy of ABCD Designs takes the cake. Amy walked and talked Soho with us as we visited her favorite lifestyle and home furnishings stores.
So let’s talk about Amy for a second. You might know her fabulous blog ABCD Design where she has over 14,000 twitter followers and die-hard readers scooping up her energy daily. What is so great about Amy is, what you “read” is what you get! A lovely, no nonsense gal. Amy’s career has been a mix of creative endeavors. She has worked in event planning, interior design, window display, and photo styling and seems to have mastered them all with a smile. My favorite tip from Amy was her NYC apartment’s Christmas tree… embracing “fake” and going black with MOMA ornaments. Check it out here.
The girl really never stops, recently launching #TWECIPES, a cookbook idea comprised of the very best recipes contributed by Amy’s twitter friends. If you would like your recipe published in the Twecipe cookbook, go to Amy’s post about it for all the details here.
Her zest for good living is contagious and her Soho tour felt like a VIP pass into the “it” spots of the New York life + style design community.
Over the next few weeks, I will spend time going into more detail about some of the wonderful shops we toured but, just in case you have a trip to the big apple on the horizon, print this walking tour out and go visit these amazing Soho establishments.
Thank you Amy, you’re a gem.
The New Traditionalists: I will be writing a full post on them soon but the photo above is a sneak peek. Quality craftsmanship and perfection in branding. A furniture line to watch…
Paula Rubenstein: So if anyone was responsible creating the design trend of mixing and matching old with new, it was probably Paula. She finds passion in the art of discovery and still works out of the same Soho store where it all began more than 20 years ago. Paula Rubenstein personally greeted us and talked about her collection of blankets and unreal textiles. Her magazines from the 1970’s had me drooling and the vintage signs looked like they could be perfect additions to any wall. With an increased interest in using antiques and “vintage” finds in home design, Paula is now often commissioned to help uncover authentic pieces. Paula was truly delightful and I look forward to visiting her again soon.
Canvas Home Store: Cozy blankets, lovely pillows and lots of great tableware.
Calypso Home: As you know, Calypso Clothing is one of my favorites and the Calypso Home has that same “non-corporate” feeling because they have unique items in all three of their home boutiques (located in Brentwood, CA, Dallas, TX. and New York, NY). The buyers purchase based on individual city cultures and vibe making each store very special. I’m in love with the gold pig!
Clic Gallery: Clic is a spot dedicated to a wide selection of rare photography, art and books.
Michele Varian: Okay, this is it. So versatile. You need a gift? Installing an interior design job and you’re missing a few unique pieces? Need one of a kind wall paper? Michele can help. Shop online or go inside. I like humble, talented people and I think that describes Michele. She welcomed us, told us her story and enthusiastically invited us back anytime. My new “go to” for fabulous home accessories.
Ochre: Whoa Nelly… quality, quality, quality. OCHRE is a British based furniture, lighting and accessory design company with a showroom (open by appointment) in London plus the retail store we visited in Soho.
Hastens: “Hastens heaven” is what I like to call it. Just when my feet were starting to hurt and my stomach was talking to me, we popped into Hastens for champagne, snacks and a rest on pure luxury mattresses. Who knew they have itty-bitty mattresses as well for the kiddos.
Flair Home: Just a quick note on Flair because I will be doing a feature post on this amazing store. All I will say is… FLAIR candle. I bought one and it smells so insanely good I’m buying 10 more when I’m back in NYC this summer.
P.S. Famished from shopping? Amy had this to say… “Lure for the tempura shrimp with red pepper aioli and a glass of pink champagne, Balthazar for the steak tar tar and pomme frite, La Esquina for the Tortilla Soup, or Aroma for the Halumi cheese sandwich!”
{Photo of Amy by Swoon Over It | I used instagram for the rest of the shots}
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
Fun to stumble upon Milton Development, a Connecticut based builder that specializes in luxury homes. Their attention to the details and elegant top of the line finishes is clearly noteworthy.
How amazing are these kitchens from their portfolio? Check out more inspiration by Milton by clicking here.
Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
It was such an honor to receive an email asking if I’d like to write about stylist to the stars and interior designer, Estee Stanley. YES, PLEASE!
I’ve admired Estee’s style for years since seeing her work in Domino and Glamour Magazine. I think Estee’s deserves a decent amount of credit for making this new generation of decor that is modern, fun, livable and a bit bohemian. Estee’s stylish looks have roots in Hollywood with more than 15 years as a celebrated fashion stylist to the stars.
Once her clients recognized Estee could style so much more than looks for the red carpet… her interior design career was born. Estee was kind enough to answer the pressing questions from a girl always looking for some serious life + style. Thank you Estee!
Favorite piece of jewelry?
My grandma’s wedding ring.
Favorite room in your house?
My bedroom. It’s so relaxing, sexy and cozy.
Where do you shop for designer deals and tell us your favorite product?
West Elm. I love all of their baskets for my clients who need my help organizing closets, kitchens, kids’ rooms, etc.
Candle Brand & Scent?
Giambattista Valli’s signature scent
You style the A-List in Hollywood… give us 2 tricks for always being camera ready?
I live for nipple covers. I use them the most and they’re genius for the red carpet. I also love Cosabella g-strings with the mesh front – it’s like wearing nothing underneath.
Sun or Snow?
Both!! Snow is great because I don’t ski so I get to relax in the lodge. Sun too though – nothing is more amazing to me than laying on the beach and getting sun kissed!
1 essential item to pack for a snow vacation?
Sorel boots are great because they keep you so warm, even if you’re wearing a t-shirt.
1 essential item to pack for a sun vacation?
I can’t live without a huge pair of Oliver Peoples sunglasses.
Favorite hotel or resort for a snowy vacation?
The Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana.
Favorite hotel or resort for a sun vacation?
For a sunny beach vacation, the Isle de France in St. Barth’s is the place.
dinner spot?
Best home accessory store?
Where should we go to search for flea market finds?
The Rose Bowl Flea Market is the best and has so many amazing finds.
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Share my love of easy elegance and finds from around the globe that are simply fabulous? Ready to make your place a space that you adore? I’d love to help make your house a home. cecy j is currently accepting new interior projects. Let’s chat info@cecyj.com
