Green Home Design

Sponsor Spotlight

2010-08-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'd like to welcome two of my fabulous new sponsors, Lamshop, whose Ming table is seen above, and The Katch Design Company. It's not too late to advertise in September or plan for October. Contact me for rates today!

Templeton

2010-08-31T07:30:00.001-07:00

You never know where inspiration for a story will strike. I was reading Page 6 yesterday and they mentioned that Cornelia Guest (above) is putting her ancestral home, Templeton, on the market again. In case you don't know, Cornelia's mother was the chic style icon C.Z. Guest. Templeton in Old Westbury on Long Island was actually the guesthouse on the estate of White Eagle, designed by Carrere and Hastings, which was owned by Cornelia's great-grandfather Henry Phipps and inherited by Frederick Guest, her grandfather. He felt the house was too big and grand for his family to smaller quarters on the property. Of course, Templeton was added onto and now the 28 room home on 15 acres includes 11 bedrooms, a pool, tennis courts, barn, formal gardens, and a greenhouse. I've included photos of how it looked while C.Z. was still alive that were published after her death in 2003 and more recent photos.

C.Z. Guest in her garden in Mainbocher opera coat. I was actually privileged to meet C.Z. at a big beauty event at Bergdorf Goodman shortly after I moved to New York in 2001. She was there to promote her garden line of products of course I bought one of her candles. It came in a beautiful flower pot and included seeds you could plant after the candle had burned down. She was just as chic as you could imagine, even into her 80's!

A look at the the downstairs library which features club chairs and a wall banquette upholstered in French printed cotton. The walls and bookcases are also covered with the fabric.

The downstairs library from House & Garden, June 2004.

The desk in the ground floor library.

A John Singer Sargent portrait of a baby Winston Guest with his grandmother, Anne Phipps, sits above a small sofa. It is a study for the final portrait which hangs at Old Westbury Gardens.

A look at the same room from House & Garden, June 2004.

The hallway with its famous leopard carpet.

As the caption from House & Garden, states, the leopard carpet conceals muddy paw prints from all the dogs.

The dining table holds stacks of Winston Guest's old equestrian books piled up by Cornelia. "I just have so many books. My father used to say, 'No more books!'"

The dining table set for House & Garden, June 2004.

A wider look at the dining room.

The blue and white room overlooks the garden.

A wider view of the blue and white room with it's tiger carpet and portrait of C.Z. by Salvadore Dali above the mantel.

The dramatic painting in the salon was purchased by Winston Guest in Paris.

The sunroom that looks like it had it's original lattice removed.

The sunroom from House & Garden, June 2004.

The entry foyer holds very large elephant tusks, a trophy from Winston Guest's big game hunting. The ocelot hide chairs were featured in Bruce Weber's book A House Is Not a Home.

Portrait of 6 year old Cornelia on Ivanhoe with her Jack Russell terriers, by esteemed equine artist Richard Stone Reeves.

A bedroom at Templeton.

A collage of rooms at Templeton including Cornelia's bedroom with her portrait by Andy Warhol, center. The bottom row are photos of White Eagle.

The gardens at Templeton include topiaries which Cornelia stands in front of, below. It can all be yours for $20,000,000 too!

Photos from Alexandra Rowley, Peak of Chic and Luxist.

Grace is Good

2010-08-30T06:37:00.001-07:00

It was reported by WWD last week that Vogue Creative Director Grace Coddington is hard at work on her autobiography. She will be helped with this task by former Men's Vogue editor in chief Jay Fielden. “We’re just starting, and I think it’s going to be a really fun project,” she told WWD, adding: “I’m hoping it’s going to be very rich in fashion history. It’s more than just about me.” Before she was an editor, Coddington was a model who was shot by some legendary lensmen including Lord Snowdon and Helmet Newton. I'm sure there are some good stories from those years as well as her time at both British and American Vogue. It was The September Issue that introduced us to this amazing woman who I like to think of as the moral compass of the movie and I can't wait to read about her inspiring life in her own words.

Grace is Good

2010-08-30T06:37:00.000-07:00

Paris in Pastel

2010-08-29T13:53:00.001-07:00

If you don't already have the July/August 2010 issue of Australian Vogue Living, run, don't walk to the nearest newsstand! This issue is one of their best and includes a fun story about eating in Brooklyn and a feature on the Montauk home of Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of Roman and Williams which you can also see here. But what really stopped me in my tracks was a gorgeous Paris apartment designed by Baroness Bruno de Pampelonne for a young Russian woman who received it as a birthday present (must be nice huh?!). The Baroness whose name is Rose Anne, worked on the space with architect Florence Lopez and what's surprising is that it's so different from her own Paris apartment that was seen in Elle Decor. The title of the article, Paris in Pastel, suggests that the apartment is full of pastel colors but it's not at all saccharine or sweet. Lots of black and gold accents and marble, as well as a top notch art collection keep it sophisticated and modern. It actually reminds me a little of Kelly Wearstler's home. The photos below are only a few of what is quickly becoming one of my all time favorite interiors. Enjoy!

Artwork by German artist Katja Strunz hangs above a table by Angelo Mangiarotti. The lamp with pale blue shade and mounted crystal is by Bagues.

If I had seen this apartment last week, I could have included it in my mirror post. Here, an Hervé van der Straeten mirror hangs over a mirrored wall panel. The Baroness designed the carpet.

The sheep desk, "Mouflon de Pauline" is by François-Xavier Lalanne. The Baroness is quoted in the article as saying, "You know when Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs and Peter Marino started to buy Lalanne, the prices for his furniture skyrocketed." The Ico Parisi chair is covered in a Brunschwig & Fils fabric.

In the guest bedroom, striped leather walls by Elitis are a perfect backdrop for a work by James Nares and sconces by Objet Insolite.

The black kitchen features a Thonet dining table.

Photos by Richard Powers

Paris in Pastel

2010-08-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

Artwork by German artist Katja Strunz hangs above a table by Angelo Mangiarotti. The lamp with pale blue shade and mounted crystal is by Bagues.

If I had seen this apartment last week, I could have included it in my mirror post. Here, an Hervé van der Straeten mirror hangs over a mirrored wall panel. The Baroness designed the carpet.

In the guest bedroom, striped leather walls by Elitis are a perfect backdrop for a work by James Nares and sconces by Objet Insolite.

The black kitchen features a Thonet dining table.

Photos by Richard Powers

See you Sunday!

2010-08-27T06:19:00.001-07:00

I thought August was when everyone was supposed to be away. Seems it's not and I've never been busier so I'm taking a few days off to relax. I'll be back next week refreshed and renewed. I will also have lots of good posts for you including my visit with artist Jeremiah Goodman. Bon Weekend!

Photo by Richard Foulser

See you Sunday!

2010-08-27T06:19:00.000-07:00

Art and Interiors on the Huffington Post

2010-08-26T05:33:00.001-07:00

I was honored to be asked by artist Kimberly Brooks to curate a post on the Huffington Post and the subject of Art and Interiors seemed like a perfect fit. As someone who holds an art history degree, art will always be important in my life and also my work. A beautiful home will never feel finished unless it is filled with artwork that isn't just bought as a prop but is meaningful to the owner. I can't think of any other artist whose work is admired by so many and can be seen in so many different types of interiors than Cy Twombly. Hope you enjoy it!

Photo of Cy Twombly's Roman palazzo by Horst 1966

Art and Interiors on the Huffington Post

2010-08-26T05:33:00.000-07:00

Oscar Elegance at Lee Jofa

2010-08-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

I had a very busy day yesterday which also included a meeting at the D&D Building. While I was there, I decided to see if the Oscar de la Renta room was finished at the Lee Jofa showroom. Every season Lee Jofa installs a fabulous room devoted to one of their fabric designers. I wasn't sure anything could top the lovely room by interior designer Eric Cohler but the new Oscar de la Renta room with its gorgeous green walls and luxurious bed definitely takes the cake. It reminds me a lot of the de la Renta's bedroom in their house in Connecticut that I posted a few months ago. Needless to say, I am as in love with the new Oscar fabrics as I am with the artwork in the room. I'm sure Oscar de la Renta Home creative director, Miles Redd, had a hand in this masterpiece and I thank him since it makes a dreaded trip to the D&D Building a whole lot more enjoyable!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Oscar Elegance at Lee Jofa

2010-08-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Chic Reads: Assouline at The Plaza

2010-08-25T07:44:00.001-07:00

If there is one publisher that epitomizes chicness, it's Assouline. I had the privilege of attending their fall preview yesterday and I warn you again, make room on your bookshelves! I was able to take a look at American Fashion Designers at Home and it's even better than I anticipated. Those of you who love Paris will also want to order Antiquaires: Flea Markets of Paris by Laurie Verchere with a foreword by 1stdibs founder Michael Bruno. The Assouline shop in the Plaza is also worth checking out since they often carry titles not available online and a vast collection of vintage books. You can even pick up a Goyard trunk full of Assouline titles. I told you they were chic! Happy Reading!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Chic Reads: Assouline at The Plaza

2010-08-25T07:44:00.000-07:00

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Let's Hear It for the Boys: J.Crew Men's Shop

2010-08-24T16:11:00.001-07:00

The Upper East Side just got a whole lot more dashing now that the new J.Crew Men's Shop just opened up. The store is located on the corner of Madison Avenue and 79th Street, conveniently right across from the Women's Collection store. The interiors were inspired by the "400 year old farm dwellings of the Engadin Valley in the Swiss Alps" but reenvisioned in more formal way. The entire store is covered in knotty pine panels and moldings that make it smell a little manly and outdoorsy. But there aren't just plaid shirts and puffer vests at this shop, they also offer the entire line of J.Crew suits. The building was once a bank and the vault is now filled with all the acccoutremenevts a man could ever need including Alden shoes, grooming products and even a stapler or two. I want to know which lucky J.Crew staffer has the job of sourcing all the amazing vintage books and props. The accessories add to already chic environment and make me wish I had a boyfriend so that I could shop at the J.Crew Men's Shop everyday. But maybe if I hang around it long enough I can find one! Happy Shopping!

J.Crew Men's Designer Frank Muytjens

J.Crew Personal Shopper Dante

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Let's Hear It for the Boys: J.Crew Men's Shop

2010-08-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

J.Crew Men's Designer Frank Muytjens

J.Crew Personal Shopper Dante

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Mirror Mirror on the Wall...

2010-08-23T11:19:00.001-07:00

One of my readers left a comment on my last post about how mirrored walls usually look tacky but that it looks beautiful in Gilles Mendel's duplex. Mirrored walls used to get a bad rap but they are great for opening up spaces and reflecting light which is necessary in many small New York apartments. I especially like when they are made up of smaller antiqued mirrored squares but I think all of these inspirational uses of mirror are very chic and definitely not tacky! The antiqued mirrored wall in Todd Romano's old apartment above is one of my all time favorites!

Bunny Williams also has a wall of antiqued mirror in her apartment.

In another view of Bunny Williams's living room, you can see how it reflects the artwork and mirror on the opposite wall.

Renea Abbott's mirrored wall reflects her beautiful living room too.

Another look at Gilles Mendel's mirrored living room.

Chloe Sevigny as well as a few others have hung paintings over their mirrored walls.

You can see how light is reflected from the mirrored wall in designer Lindsey Harper's living room.

Dining rooms are another popular room for mirrored walls as in Isabel Lopez Quesada's design. I've seen this done where the mirrors are applied to jib doors that open to reveal storage for china and glassware.

The mirrored wall in the Janklow's old townhouse were very antiqued and I love how the wall color makes them look green.

Another mirrored wall in a dining room by Markham Roberts.

This mirrored dining room in Italy looks very elegant.

Elsie de Wolfe popularized mirrored fireplaces.

Elliott Puckette and Hugo Guinness hung a mirror over their mirrored fireplace wall in their Brooklyn townhouse.

Chanel's mirrored staircase is one of the most famous mirrored walls in the world.

Mirrored backsplashes are a great way to open up small New York kitchens as Stephanie Stokes illustrates here.

Miles Redd also employed mirrored backsplashes in this dark kitchen.

Interior designer Allison Caccoma used mirrors under lattice in this kitchen and breakfast room.

Allison Sarofim had mirrors installed in her small bathroom which also opens up the space.

And last but not least, Miles Redd famous mirrored bathroom. I don't think this would work for everyone but it might help motivate you to work out!

Mirror Mirror on the Wall...

2010-08-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

Bunny Williams also has a wall of antiqued mirror in her apartment.

In another view of Bunny Williams's living room, you can see how it reflects the artwork and mirror on the opposite wall.

Renea Abbott's mirrored wall reflects her beautiful living room too.

Another look at Gilles Mendel's mirrored living room.

Chloe Sevigny as well as a few others have hung paintings over their mirrored walls.

You can see how light is reflected from the mirrored wall in designer Lindsey Harper's living room.

The mirrored wall in the Janklow's old townhouse were very antiqued and I love how the wall color makes them look green.

Another mirrored wall in a dining room by Markham Roberts.

This mirrored dining room in Italy looks very elegant.

Elsie de Wolfe popularized mirrored fireplaces.

Elliott Puckette and Hugo Guinness hung a mirror over their mirrored fireplace wall in their Brooklyn townhouse.

Chanel's mirrored staircase is one of the most famous mirrored walls in the world.

Mirrored backsplashes are a great way to open up small New York kitchens as Stephanie Stokes illustrates here.

Miles Redd also employed mirrored backsplashes in this dark kitchen.

Interior designer Allison Caccoma used mirrors under lattice in this kitchen and breakfast room.

Allison Sarofim had mirrors installed in her small bathroom which also opens up the space.

And last but not least, Miles Redd famous mirrored bathroom. I don't think this would work for everyone but it might help motivate you to work out!

For Sale: Gilles Mendel's Duplex

2010-08-22T11:50:00.001-07:00

If you have an extra $2,200,000 lying around and are in the market for a new apartment, you may want to check out Gilles Mendel's chic duplex. The Pre-War two bedroom space is located on the Upper East Side near all the fabulous stores and luckily comes with walk in closets to store your purchases. I'm not sure where the designer of J. Mendel is moving but I'm sure it's to a bigger space to house himself and his growing children. It was published in the October 2007 issue of Elle Decor and as you can see from the photos, it was styled a little better there than it was in the real estate brochure. If you decide to buy it, maybe you can get him to throw in a dress.

Elle Decor photos by William Waldron

For Sale: Gilles Mendel's Duplex

2010-08-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

Elle Decor photos by William Waldron

Chic on Safari

2010-08-20T13:58:00.001-07:00

When I go on safari, the first place I will probably head is F.M. Allen not Louis Vuitton but that doesn't mean that I don't love their new advertising campaign. Louis Vuitton tapped Dree Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway's great-granddaughter, to star in their new catalog shot by photographer Carter Smith in Africa. Some people have all the luck! Bon Weekend!

Photos by Carter Smith via Luxuo

Chic on Safari

2010-08-20T13:58:00.000-07:00

Photos by Carter Smith via Luxuo

NYIGF: Waylande Gregory

2010-08-20T11:22:00.001-07:00

I swear I'm going to wrap up my coverage of the New York International Gift Fair soon but I couldn't only post about the vintage vendors. One of my absolute favorite booths was Waylande Gregory, and not just because they borrowed their furniture from Flair, my favorite store in New York. I love that their pieces are fun yet sophisticated. They have that chic 1970's glam style and have now introduced lamps to their collection.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Waylande Gregory

2010-08-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

The Fantastic Work of Jeremiah Goodman

2010-08-20T08:11:00.001-07:00

One of my dreams is to meet artist Jeremiah Goodman and watch him work. Since that hasn't happened in person yet, I'm glad I can see photos of him sketching and painting. Usually his work is on the smaller scale but the Swedish retailer Acne commissioned him to create three large canvas murals for their London boutique. I don't usually like to mention age but Mr. Goodman is 88 and his fantastic work is clearly keeping him young!

Photos by Dean Rhys Morgan

The Fantastic Work of Jeremiah Goodman

2010-08-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

Photos by Dean Rhys Morgan

The Rise of Reed

2010-08-19T13:01:00.001-07:00

I picked up the September issue of Vogue yesterday and although it's a little heavy on Fashion's Night Out coverage, there was one fabulous feature that stopped me in my tracks. The finally finished townhouse of Delphine and Reed Krakoff is breathtaking and worth buying the issue just so you can drool over it. I was just talking to someone about their townhouses recently as I knew Reed, the Executive Creative Director of Coach, and his wife had sold their old townhouse to buy this even bigger one. (Must be nice, right?!) The article is missing some of the rooms so I was happy to find some more photos on Delphine's website for her business Pamplemousse Design. (Delphine is French and pamplemousse means grapefruit in French.) These photos are not from Vogue so I'm not ruining anything for you and the rooms have also been styled differently. I will never tire of comparing how rooms are styled for real life and magazines. As I know from my own photo shoots, not everything translates well for the camera. Delphine also designed the new Reed Krakoff store for Reed's eponymous fashion line which opens today at 831 Madison Avenue. I can't wait to check it out too! Enjoy!

The living room with it's old chairs.

An amazing Claude Lalanne bronze crocodile chairs sits on a Henri Gonse designed rug for Cogolin c. 1940.

The home had been divided into apartments and a new central staircase had to be installed. Lalanne sheep are hiding in the corner beside the 1930's Jean-Michel Frank Sofa and Line Vautrin mirrors.

The Krakoff's are major art collectors and a Marc Newson chaise sits under a Al Held painting. All of the landings are as big as regular rooms.

For such a large townhouse with all white walls, the furniture and rugs help make it feel warm and cozy.

Another large landing with a Frank Stella painting from 1974, Concentric Squares and a 1930's Serge Roche table.

Of course, I'm loving the book filled library.

The large eat in kitchen features ostrich skin upholstered French chairs that look similar to the ones that were in their Hamptons house. I love kitchens that are decorated like the rest of a home.

The master bathroom is larger than most New York apartments and features a fireplace and large seating area. You know, just in case you need to sit down while getting ready in the morning. For a peek at the children's rooms and other areas of the townhouse, pick up the September issue of Vogue.

The Rise of Reed

2010-08-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

The living room with it's old chairs.

An amazing Claude Lalanne bronze crocodile chairs sits on a Henri Gonse designed rug for Cogolin c. 1940.

The home had been divided into apartments and a new central staircase had to be installed. Lalanne sheep are hiding in the corner beside the 1930's Jean-Michel Frank Sofa and Line Vautrin mirrors.

The Krakoff's are major art collectors and a Marc Newson chaise sits under a Al Held painting. All of the landings are as big as regular rooms.

For such a large townhouse with all white walls, the furniture and rugs help make it feel warm and cozy.

Another large landing with a Frank Stella painting from 1974, Concentric Squares and a 1930's Serge Roche table.

Of course, I'm loving the book filled library.

The large eat in kitchen features ostrich skin upholstered French chairs that look similar to the ones that were in their Hamptons house. I love kitchens that are decorated like the rest of a home.

Profile in Style: Aerin Lauder

2010-08-19T08:11:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite summer things that I mentioned in my feature on Tory Burch's blog is Estee Lauder Self Tanner so it was fun to see all of Aerin Lauder's favorite things in T Magazine today. I love the bar in her apartment above but what I am dying over are the custom make up bags that she designs for her friends. Check them out here. Oh, and the Twombly's not bad either!

Profile in Style: Aerin Lauder

2010-08-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks Tory Burch!

2010-08-19T06:13:00.001-07:00

I was honored when Tory Burch asked me to submit my 10 Favorites for Summer. You can check out my choices on her blog. Thanks Tory!

Thanks Tory Burch!

2010-08-19T06:13:00.000-07:00

I was honored when Tory Burch asked me to submit my 10 Favorites for Summer. You can check out my choices on her blog. Thanks Tory!

NYIGF: Vagabond Vintage

2010-08-18T08:42:00.001-07:00

Vintage and vintage-inspired accessories and furniture were something that I saw a lot of at the New York International Gift Fair. No one seemed to do it as well as Vagabond Vintage. The company has been in business for over 20 years and I loved pretty much everything I saw from them. They mix reproductions with real vintage which is great for those who don't have access to flea markets in their area. As I mentioned previously, if you own a store or are a designer with a resale certificate, you should be able to order from Vagabond Vintage directly and everyone else can find their products at Mothology. Enjoy!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Vagabond Vintage

2010-08-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse is back on!

2010-08-17T13:49:00.001-07:00

I can't think of a better way to follow up a post about Bunny Williams than to announce that the 38th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse has finally found a home! The venue is "a magnificent and newly-renovated limestone mansion" at 106 East 71st Street on the Upper East Side. The full list of designers will be announced again soon but I can tell you that Robert Courtier, Katie Ridder and Vicente Wolf are all scheduled to participate. The Opening Night Gala cocktail party is scheduled for Wednesday, October 13th and then the house will be open to the public October 14 - November 11, 2010. I'll see you there!

Photo of Bunny Williams room at last year's showhouse by moi

Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse is back on!

2010-08-17T13:49:00.000-07:00

Photo of Bunny Williams room at last year's showhouse by moi

Bunny Williams: Chic at Work

2010-08-17T11:08:00.001-07:00

Living in New York affords the wonderful opportunity to attend so many lovely events and last night was no exception. Bunny Williams opened up her beautiful and spacious office to a group of editors and bloggers for cocktails and a sneak peek at some of her upcoming endeavors. Her BeeLine Home Collection II will debut this fall at High Point and her new book Scrapbook for Living will be released in November. I'm most excited that she will also be debuting a new website that will feature online shopping and a bridal registry, as well as recipes and entertaining advice. We all told Bunny that her next book has to be about entertaining! She is one of the most gracious and effortlessly chic women I have ever met. I also love her tag line "always classic, never predictable."

What I love most about Bunny and her husband and antique dealer, John Rosselli, above is that they are always off on some adventure. They had recently traveled to Honduras where some of Bunny's furniture is made and it sounded like quite a trip! I also told John that he needs to write a book. Well, begged might be more accurate. He made a few remarks at the event and said "the best way to stay young is to surround yourself with young people" but I also think that the older generation has so much to offer the younger generation. I will never tire of his wonderful stories of the chic and stylish women that we all admire but whom he knew personally. Last night, he told of how Françoise de la Renta told him that she was bringing a friend by to see him and it turned out to be Babe Paley. She ended up buying an ivory palm tree for Truman, as in Truman Capote. She also bought lots of blue and white porcelain and said to John, "you can never be too rich or too thin or have too much blue and white." So fabulous!

The other star of the evening was Bunny's office. I've seen some gorgeous offices but I don't think I've seen any that were so spacious. It was so nice to be able to stand back and really see everything. The best parts were her many books and her office which we'll get to in a minute.

This is the seating area in the reception area and I'm going to have to ask if that is a textile or blanket covering the sofa because it was just to die for gorgeous.

This book on the coffee table looked very intriguing.

The space also is a great showcase for Bunny's BeeLine Home Collection including the Marquetry Cube Drinks Table and a chair that was the original inspiration for a new model that will be a part of the second collection this fall.

Not sure if you can tell in this photo but the screen is upholstered in green fabric and trimmed in nailheads. It's a very chic way to hide the rest of the office from the reception area for a party.

There is a little bar behind the door to the office with an abstract collage above that was very chic. You'll notice that a lot of the pieces have tags and are all for sale.

There were quite a few beautiful old casepieces throughout the office and this one had wonderful gilt details and old mirrors.

A detail of just some of Bunny's wonderful book collection.

The best part about the office is that it looks and feels like you are in a home.

A leather chair makes a perfect companion to Bunny's Bottoms-Up Drinks Table. I actually used this in one of my projects. It's the perfect size for New York apartments!

Here you can see the stripe detail on the floor that mirrors the beams in the ceiling. It's an interesting space in that it looks both modern and old.

The center entry table was laden with goodies.

Bunny is a master at the tablescape!

The bird containers are called the Parish Cachepot and are based on a cachepot that belonged to Sister Parish. They feature a removable liner and are part of the BeeLine Home Collection.

A view into the sample room.

This is a sample room that most designers dream about at night!

While my fabric samples are shoved into L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bags, Bunny's are neatly arranged on shelves. Sigh.

I wish I had peeked into the armoire to see what was hiding in there.

There were some beautiful vintage watercolor interiors in this room that are also for sale.

Pens and paper at the ready next to the phone.

A view into Bunny's office. I am glad to see that she has a comfortable desk chair. Antique chairs are pretty but not very comfortable for sitting for long periods.

The gilt and wood pilasters elevate a simple wall of bookshelves into something spectacular.

More books and auction catalogs which are a great resource guide even if you aren't bidding.

I absolutely loved the dog portrait!

Bunny is fearless when it comes to mixing different periods and styles of furniture and art as you can see here.

I could spend all day checking out Bunny's books.

Most design offices keep their purchase orders in binders from Staples but not Bunny. Her client projects are kept in these chic red leather binders. I am making a mental note of this for future reference.

Gorgeous gardening books.

I keep my pens in a silver mint julep cup but Bunny keeps hers in a vintage gold painted porcelain cachepot. Now that is chic!

The mirror and console give the wall on the other side of Bunny's office the feeling of there being a fireplace on that wall.

Of course, there were many bunnies in Bunny's office. This one was especially cute!

I want to thank Bunny for her gracious hospitality last evening. It was so nice to see so many familiar faces and to meet some lovely new people. I always say that these types of events are like a modern day salon where you can talk about design and other topics and always learn something new. I also want to thank Bunny for allowing me to photograph her office and share it with you. I found it endlessly inspiring, just like Bunny Williams.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Bunny Williams: Chic at Work

2010-08-17T11:08:00.000-07:00

This is the seating area in the reception area and I'm going to have to ask if that is a textile or blanket covering the sofa because it was just to die for gorgeous.

This book on the coffee table looked very intriguing.

Not sure if you can tell in this photo but the screen is upholstered in green fabric and trimmed in nailheads. It's a very chic way to hide the rest of the office from the reception area for a party.

There is a little bar behind the door to the office with an abstract collage above that was very chic. You'll notice that a lot of the pieces have tags and are all for sale.

There were quite a few beautiful old casepieces throughout the office and this one had wonderful gilt details and old mirrors.

A detail of just some of Bunny's wonderful book collection.

The best part about the office is that it looks and feels like you are in a home.

A leather chair makes a perfect companion to Bunny's Bottoms-Up Drinks Table. I actually used this in one of my projects. It's the perfect size for New York apartments!

Here you can see the stripe detail on the floor that mirrors the beams in the ceiling. It's an interesting space in that it looks both modern and old.

The center entry table was laden with goodies.

Bunny is a master at the tablescape!

The bird containers are called the Parish Cachepot and are based on a cachepot that belonged to Sister Parish. They feature a removable liner and are part of the BeeLine Home Collection.

A view into the sample room.

This is a sample room that most designers dream about at night!

While my fabric samples are shoved into L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bags, Bunny's are neatly arranged on shelves. Sigh.

I wish I had peeked into the armoire to see what was hiding in there.

There were some beautiful vintage watercolor interiors in this room that are also for sale.

Pens and paper at the ready next to the phone.

A view into Bunny's office. I am glad to see that she has a comfortable desk chair. Antique chairs are pretty but not very comfortable for sitting for long periods.

The gilt and wood pilasters elevate a simple wall of bookshelves into something spectacular.

More books and auction catalogs which are a great resource guide even if you aren't bidding.

I absolutely loved the dog portrait!

Bunny is fearless when it comes to mixing different periods and styles of furniture and art as you can see here.

I could spend all day checking out Bunny's books.

Gorgeous gardening books.

I keep my pens in a silver mint julep cup but Bunny keeps hers in a vintage gold painted porcelain cachepot. Now that is chic!

The mirror and console give the wall on the other side of Bunny's office the feeling of there being a fireplace on that wall.

Of course, there were many bunnies in Bunny's office. This one was especially cute!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Take a Number

2010-08-17T05:19:00.001-07:00

One of the other big themes I noticed while I was touring the New York International Gift Fair were numbers. They were printed on everything from pillows to storage boxes. I thought they looked really fresh and fun. Another popular item I noticed that you can see in some of these examples are wire baskets and storage items in every possible size and shape. Enjoy!

These boxes and the pillows above are from Vagabond Vintage, one of my favorite booths. You can find their items available at Mothology.

Numbered pillows from Go Home.

Numbered boxes at BoBo Intriguing Objects.

Numbered box, vintage German walking sticks and Swiss Army bag at Blue Ocean Traders.

Numbered boxes at Design Legacy.

Numbered accessories at Two's Company above and below.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Take a Number

2010-08-17T05:19:00.000-07:00

These boxes and the pillows above are from Vagabond Vintage, one of my favorite booths. You can find their items available at Mothology.

Numbered pillows from Go Home.

Numbered boxes at BoBo Intriguing Objects.

Numbered box, vintage German walking sticks and Swiss Army bag at Blue Ocean Traders.

Numbered boxes at Design Legacy.

Numbered accessories at Two's Company above and below.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Crowning Glories

2010-08-16T17:35:00.001-07:00

I saw a cute crown that Jenna Lyons had in her office and since then I've been thinking about them as a decorative accent. I was happy to then see them in many booths at the New York International Gift Fair yesterday. I think I may definitely have to buy one of the gorgeous versions from Vagabond Vintage above. Luckily, they told me that Mothology carries much of their pieces for those of you who can't buy to the trade or as a designer.

Peacock Park also has many crown styles.

A black and gold crown at Peacock Park.

Gilt crown at Blue Ocean Traders.

There's another crown style on the bench at Blue Ocean Traders.

Gilt crown on a stand at Tara Shaw Maison.

Another crown at Tara Shaw Maison.

Crown embroidery at Julia B.

I loved the crown napkins (above and below) at Dransfield & Ross. And the Greek Key of course!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Crowning Glories

2010-08-16T17:35:00.000-07:00

Peacock Park also has many crown styles.

A black and gold crown at Peacock Park.

Gilt crown at Blue Ocean Traders.

There's another crown style on the bench at Blue Ocean Traders.

Gilt crown on a stand at Tara Shaw Maison.

Another crown at Tara Shaw Maison.

Crown embroidery at Julia B.

I loved the crown napkins (above and below) at Dransfield & Ross. And the Greek Key of course!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: March of the Elephants

2010-08-16T14:10:00.001-07:00

It seemed like animals of all types were on parade at this New York International Gift Fair but none were more prominent than elephants. I especially loved the cute ones at Waylande Gregory above.

The circus elephants at Design Legacy were adorable!

I think this is a napkin ring at Dransfield & Ross.

A white elephant at Two's Company.

An elephant creamer also at Two's Company.

Cute elephant print napkins and placemats from Simrin.

Yes, there is an elephant in that pack of pillows from Areaware.

The elephant takes center stage at John Derian.

A lumbering elephant at Vintage Print Gallery.

A simple line elephant at Natural Curiosities.

Kids would definitely want to put their toys away in these elephant storage bins from 3 Sprouts!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: March of the Elephants

2010-08-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

It seemed like animals of all types were on parade at this New York International Gift Fair but none were more prominent than elephants. I especially loved the cute ones at Waylande Gregory above.

The circus elephants at Design Legacy were adorable!

I think this is a napkin ring at Dransfield & Ross.

A white elephant at Two's Company.

An elephant creamer also at Two's Company.

Cute elephant print napkins and placemats from Simrin.

Yes, there is an elephant in that pack of pillows from Areaware.

The elephant takes center stage at John Derian.

A lumbering elephant at Vintage Print Gallery.

A simple line elephant at Natural Curiosities.

Kids would definitely want to put their toys away in these elephant storage bins from 3 Sprouts!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Horsing Around

2010-08-16T11:44:00.001-07:00

Horses seemed to be a theme at the New York International Gift Fair this year. I kept seeing them and mostly in the booths that had a vintage feel. The handsome horse above is from Bliss Studio.

Horses at Go Home

Horse at Go Home

Rocking Horses at Blue Ocean Traders

Horse Head at Blue Ocean Traders

Horses and Urns at Blue Ocean Traders

Vintage looking horse at Zentique

Horse Lamps at Barbara Cosgrove Lamps

Cashmere Horse Motif Pillows from Rani Arabella

Horses on the shelves at Tozai Home

Polo Players and Horse at Waylande Gregory in front of a photo of Waylande Gregory himself.

Horses and Elephants, another gift show theme, at Waylande Gregory

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Horsing Around

2010-08-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Horses seemed to be a theme at the New York International Gift Fair this year. I kept seeing them and mostly in the booths that had a vintage feel. The handsome horse above is from Bliss Studio.

Horses at Go Home

Horse at Go Home

Rocking Horses at Blue Ocean Traders

Horse Head at Blue Ocean Traders

Horses and Urns at Blue Ocean Traders

Vintage looking horse at Zentique

Horse Lamps at Barbara Cosgrove Lamps

Cashmere Horse Motif Pillows from Rani Arabella

Horses on the shelves at Tozai Home

Polo Players and Horse at Waylande Gregory in front of a photo of Waylande Gregory himself.

Horses and Elephants, another gift show theme, at Waylande Gregory

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Two's Company Equestrian Theme

2010-08-16T08:35:00.001-07:00

The Two's Company booth at the New York International Gift Fair is always crowded but worth braving for the fabulous styling. Since I recently posted about Equestrian Chic, I absolutely loved their equestrian themed accessories! If you can't find the vintage versions, it's nice to know you can get the same look at Two's Company! Enjoy!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

NYIGF: Two's Company Equestrian Theme

2010-08-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic