• HARDWARE – THE ESSENTIAL ACCESSORY

    Those who won in Rio can be found post-games posing with their hard-earned medals (gold, silver and/or bronze) at news conferences, talk shows and celebrity events.  Olympic hardware is pretty delicious — and not just because the athletes like to take a playful chomp during photo-ops — the heft and quality of the medals is obvious.  That’s why hardware is one of my favorite elements in design.  Well-crafted hardware not only looks good, if feels good.  Handling a door knob or drawer pull that’s cast and detailed to perfection is like nothing else.  Install beautiful, substantial hardware throughout a residence and the home will have guaranteed gravitas and soul. MAKE…

  • Tableaux

    There are only two things in this world of which I will never tire.  One, cute animals.  And two, vignettes.  It’s true, nothing snaps me out of a bad mood faster than a cleverly styled tabletop or an otter eating lettuce on Youtube.  Vignettes I love because they can be pulled together in minutes.  I love them because everyday things – a branch from the yard, a child’s toy, a vintage teacup – always make them more interesting.  I love them because they have personality.  I love them because they’re artistic and inspirational.  I love them because they make me happy … even sans otter.      A favorite vignette from…

  • THE AD DESIGN SHOW :: TRICIA’S 10

     I spent the day at the Architectural Digest Design Show in New York on Friday.  It’s always good to see what’s new, talk with vendors and “kick the tires” so to speak.  Seeing the finish/scale/construction of products in person is integral to quality control and intelligent design.  And, of course, it’s fun.  I’ve shared ten best picks — whether it be a specific piece or an entire collection — and why each was worth a closer look. #1  Van Cronenburg I am passionate about hardware and this company is stellar.  Substance and exquisite detail in every piece.            #2  A Space Wall Sconce All of the products from A Space – lighting,…

  • Beautiful Stranger

       Architectural Digest – the original grande dame of shelter magazines – is back and better than ever with an absolutely stunning debut issue produced by new editor-in-chief, Margaret Russell.  The always polished and discerning Ms. Russell understands that true design aficionados are not interested in Joan Rivers’ pink bedroom or Neverland Ranch.  Remarkable style, storied architecture and designers at the  top of their game are the trademarks of the AD we have known and loved.  As a young girl I would wait anxiously each month for the latest issue to arrive.  After studying the elegant and intoxicating images  for days, I would file away each publication in my archives (i.e. my…