• Winter Warm-Up

    While at Battery Kemble Park this past weekend with Nina, I was reminded why some people love  winter.  The sky was clear, the sun was shining and the snow was glistening in the treetops and underfoot.  It really was magical.  I later wrote to a friend that it was a perfect day – “warm and sparkly”.  Not exactly a scientific description, but spot-on nonetheless.  Although I don’t think I’ve ever used those exact words to describe a project, I certainly could have.  I’ve embraced that concept a few times over the past few years.  One renovation in particular comes to mind.  Huntley & Co. redesigned a Pennsylvania Avenue apartment for a…

  • Genius at Work – Darrell Dean

    Washington is a strong city for design.  Incredible architecture, international influences and award winning talent. But to the larger audience, we're seen as conservative and predictable. Sure we don't have the inventory of New York or the edginess of LA, but take a closer look and you'll find innovators, risk-takers and geniuses in their fields. One of those virtuosos is Darrell Dean of the eponymous antique store on Wisconsin Avenue in Georgetown.  His finds are always fresh and striking and completely original.  The man is brilliant.  His shop is a constant source of product and inspiration.  If I could, I would buy the entire cache.  Where is that generous benefactor?! …