No Small Task

Arrangement by Brad Ford

I have been working on my small home office/study recently and am currently researching lighting options. Although I sometimes do lean toward the traditional (a classic bouillotte lamp is one of my absolute faves), I can totally see the stylistic benefit of modern pieces. 



Bedroom by Barbara Wiseley


More specifically, I am focusing on task lamps and the way that such a decidedly modern lighting fixture can be juxtaposed with more traditional, or even rustic, interiors to create the feeling of a perfectly curated space.

Bedroom by Michael S. Smith



Bedroom in beach house of West Elm creative director, Alex Bates


Although, one must admit, they're quite at home in more contemporary digs as well...

JK Place Hotel in Florence designed by Michele Bonan

Home of Monelle Totah of Williams Sonoma Home

I love the wall-mounted lamps below. What a grand statement they make! Plus, they perfectly frame the artwork and save table space!

Home of Eccola owners Kathleen and Maurizio Almanza

Anthropologie is offering a similar look with their "Robson" sconce. I love its cool, streamlined, industrial look.

Anthro "Robson" Sconce



Photo courtesy of El Sabor de lo Antiguo blog


When chrome and polished nickel versions are used, they act almost as jewelry for the room, adding just the right amount of sparkle.

Living room by Vicente Wolf

How would you use this style of lighting in your own home?

Vignette by Ryan Korban

I love the combination of elements above: the classic Louis XVI-style sidechair, the mid-century mod dresser, the classic sculpture... those fabulous lamps! (Not to mention the presentation of artwork!)

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Fabulous faux bois

Chair from Williams-Sonoma

One of my absolute favorite fabric patterns is faux bois (and its close relative, moire, as well). For you non-Francophiles, "faux bois" simply means false wood and aims to simulate wood's grain (as opposed to the bark/trunk of a tree). These fabrics come in a variety of colors, but, I think, the neutrals make the most of this fluid pattern.

Room by Lichten Craig

Although, to me, an interesting and modern pattern, it is still hard to find examples of its application in the mainstream design world. I think this will soon change as this fabric can bring such subtle depth and movement to a space.

John Dransfield and Geoffrey Ross use a small Saarinen table and one faux bois throw pillow to make a sweetly traditional settee more modern in their gorgeous New Jersey home. (You must check out the whole house at Elle Decor!)

In the living area above, Jesse Carrier uses the wavy fabric to give warmth to a modern space.

In this gorgeous dining room by Andrew Raquet, the faux bois chairs and striped rug provide a casual touch that contrasts with the rest of the glamorous space. The pattern reminds me of rain dropping on the surface of water, again creating quiet movement.

Glimmering Gracie wallpaper, Greek key-trimmed curtains, delicate faux bois dining chairs, and a four foot pagoda? How could you not love this room?!

I am all about interiors that are elegant, but I think there needs to be interest and intrigue in them, too. Finding things that make you smile and keep you thinking are invaluable to an happy, and engaging, home!

Let me know if you can find more examples of this fabulous fabric!

Happy Tuesday!