• Art to Interior

    I love art.  I considered curatorial studies for a time while in college.  During my first exhibit installation, however, I broke two large glass plates protecting a famous photographer’s work.  I concluded pretty quickly that “this is probably not for me”.   Still, my love affair continued well into my interior design degree and career.  There is almost no genre or medium that I don’t appreciate in some way.  A 1982 kinetic sculpture and an oil portrait from the 19th century can both stir my senses.  It follows then that artwork sometimes informs my designs.    THE STARTING POINT Essie, Ruby and Ferdinand – Children of Asher Wertheimer, 1902   It’s hard to not love Sargent.  His oil paintings are lush, moody and…

  • 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,…

  • Mad About Macabre

     Although it may not be very “PC”, the creepy, scary side of life can be pretty titillating at times.  CSI and Twilight have millions of fans for a reason – the macabre is fascinating.  It's fun to  dive into the dark side of life, especially for the straight-laced among us.  Sure, we like our  structured, polished lives.  But something about the morbid and sinister gets the skin tingling.  So here’s to being a little naughty at least once a year.  Go ahead, get your freak on!         Blackman Cruz is an L.A. based firm that specializes in eccentric objects and furniture.  The Bronze Skull lamp is one of their original and most…