Luxe & Lucid

Don't Call it a Comeback

Like LL Cool J, I didn't go anywhere.  I've just been busy.  I've mentioned before that publishing L+L takes a lot of time and that I'm just not the type to half a-- it.  So I've been on a hiatus from le blog and dedicating my time to all-things Huntley & Co. (as it should be).  But that doesn't mean I've been chained to my desk these past few months.  Here's a look back at some of my adventures since December.  

 

 

 

December_Art Basel & Design Miami

      

      

Ridiculous art and mind boggling design amidst throngs of fabulous people from everywhere.

 

 

 

 

December_Park City

        


Skiing, shopping and New Year's Eve at Wahso tucked into our own private booth.

 

 

 

 

 

January_London 

     

A penthouse project on the Thames, the Dean Street Townhouse hotel and a late night of theater and live music with a client.

 

 

 

 

 

February_DC Design House

  

I'm designing the Master Bedroom Sitting Room at the 2012 DC Design House in Spring Valley.  The space is a gem and the design is going to be so chic.  Come visit - it opens to the public April 14!

 

 

 

 

More fun things to follow.  Look for another update sooner than later.

Tricia xo

 

P.S. Thanks for your emails.  It's nice to know L+L has been missed!

 

District Design: Birmingham

 

I just picked up Bobby McAlpine’s new book, THE HOME WITHIN US, this week.  Besides the fact that I am a big fan of his work and am thrilled to finally have access to great photos of his architecture and interiors, his book reminds me that Alabama, his home and base of operations, is a designer destination.  I have always loved the south and have visited many of its magical cities – New Orleans, Charleston, Savannah – but I have yet to make it to Montgomery, Huntsville or Birmingham.  My old comrade and fellow designer at Solis Betancourt, Meredith Leach (now McBrearty) was from Alabama and always raved about its beauty, its charm, and of course, its shopping.  As the holiday and travel season descends upon us, what better city for “District Design” to visit than sweet home Alabama’s own Birmingham. 

 

 

 

 Bobby McAlpine's book is available in stores and online. 

 

  

 

 

 

 

WHAT'S THE CHICEST FURNISHINGS RESOURCE IN BIRMINGHAM?

Circa Interiors has amazing pieces for the home, both antiques and upholstery.  If you’re in Birmingham be sure to stop in their shop on Culver Road.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WHERE DO YOU GO TO FIND ACCESSORIES?

Table Matters and at Home in Homewood.

 

 

Alex Marshall dinnerware and Woodbury flatware set available at Table Matters.

 

 

 

 

 

  IS THERE A GREAT LINEN SHOP IN BIRMINGHAM?

Suite Dreams in Mountainbrook Village carries lines such as Matouk, Matteo, Archipelgo, Peacock Alley, and more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOW DO YOU WORK YOUR FASHION LOOK INTO YOUR INTERIORS?

I love the look of layers and texture for fall.  In terms of your home, I think the more personal layers you can add, the more interesting.  Of course, like your wardrobe, knowing when to say when is important!

 

 Layered looks in both design and fashion (Cotelac and Fendi).

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT FASHION DESTINATION CAN YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?  WHAT STORE EMBODIES YOUR LOOK? 

I was introduced to Theodora (Anna Sui, Tracey Reese and more) in Homewood Village during college when I would go home with friends to see their families in Birmingham. Marella in Mountainbrook Village is another chic spot for dresses.  Her sister store, Carriage House is in my hometown of Decatur.

 

  

Trina Turk vest at Marella.

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT'S THE BEST KEPT SHOPPING SECRET IN BIRMINGHAM?

Betsy Prince’s annual shoe sale – when brands such as Ferragamo are up to 50% off!

An open-toe bootie at Betsy Prince.

 

 

  

 

 

WHAT BIRMINGHAM DINING SPOT DO YOU LOVE FOR BOTH ITS MENU AND ITS DECOR?

Chez FonFon in Five Points for delicious French food and authentic ambiance.  Urban Standard is a unique spot downtown.  It’s a restaurant with interesting accessories (such as taxidermied animals and magnifying glasses) and contemporary light fixtures.

 

The men behind Chez FonFon - Frank Stitt, Zoubir Tabout and Patrick J. Dunne (photo by Howard L. Puckette/Southern Accents).

 

 

 

 Thanks Mer!  Tricia xo

 

Check out www.fabulousboutiques.com for a fabulous list of Birmingham shopping destinations.  You can find examples of Meredith McBrearty’s work on her eponymous website. 

 

DCNY

I had a busy week. Meetings, travel, design events, etc.  A jam-packed schedule isn’t necessarily enjoyable mid-stream, but I always love the results.  I meet new people, see interesting things, get inspired, and in general, shake things up a bit.  Between DC and New York, I stumbled upon some fabulous finds this past week.  Whether it was design or fashion, food or art, it seemed that new and exciting things were available and in abundance.  Of course there is never enough time to take it all in.  It’s a good thing I am able to document it all with my trusty iphone and enjoy the fruits of my labor long after my work and the week is done.

 

 

 

 

- SOURCING RUGS & TEXTILES -

 

       

       

I love beautiful textiles and rugs.  Especially when they are assembled together in a stunning collection.  Subtle, graphic, textural or glamorous – it doesn’t really matter to me.  Gorgeous is gorgeous regardless of content or genre.

 

 

 

 

- WINDOW SHOPPING -

 

        

       

       

Fall is always a delicious time for fashion.  Even if you can’t purchase everything you see behind the glass, you can certainly draw inspiration from the displays and create new, eclectic ensembles within your existing wardrobe.  I personally am all over this season’s bold colors, layers, baggie pants and fur jackets.    

 

 

 

 

- SCOUTING FOR VINTAGE FURNISHINGS -

 

     

     

You can troll all day on the internet, but there is nothing like seeing the real thing.  I can’t get enough of unique yet elegant, statement-making furniture.  Unfortunately, I need another chair like I need a hole in the head.  It was hard to resist these stellar vintage finds.

 

 

 

 

 

- DROPPING BY AN ARTIST’S STUDIO -

 

     

     

I’m a big fan of Julie Wolfe’s work.  So to see her paintings and jewelry in-residence was quite a treat.  Plus Julie is such a cool chic –  interesting, laidback and irreverent.  The evening was hosted by George Hemphill and marked by contemporary artwork, incredible jewelry, wine and a “deconstructed food installation”.  Loved it.  

 

 

 

 

 

- BELLYING UP TO THE BAR -

 

      

     

It wasn’t my last stop this weekend, but it was definitely one of the more photogenic.  Ted’s Bulletin is a throwback to yesteryear with the style and ambiance to match.  If dining, I would stick to the burgers and shakes.  If you’re there for a cocktail, order a Jessie Clark.  Besides the delicious concoction of chamomile-infused scotch, orange marmalade and chocolate bitters, the drink is served with a perfectly round ice cube produced in seconds by The Macallan ice ball machine.  An entertaining and purposeful gadget whether you’re a scotch aficionado or not.  

 

 

Tricia xo

 

Scenes from a Vacation - Part II (finally!)

 

As mentioned in my last post, I added an extra day to my northern California vacation so I could spend some time in San Francisco before heading back east. I hadn’t been to the bay area in years and had honestly forgotten what all the fuss was about. But I figured why not make a pit stop in an old stomping ground and segue a bit more gently back into life in DC. I was more than taken with the heavenly weather (68 degrees in August) and the lively urban atmosphere – crowded cafes, locals out walking their dogs and great shopping – in Pacific Heights where we spent the day. And although the word “hip” could be used to describe the area’s watering holes, shops and fashions, it didn’t smack of trends like some cities. San Francisco is like the popular kid in high school: confident and cool without even trying. And a vibe like that may as well be crack to someone like me. I couldn’t get enough. Shopping I did - and successful I was. 

 Thanks San Fran for sharing your mojo with me!

 

 

 

 

CIELO   A store full of gorgeous, high-end European brands.

 

I picked up an Ann Demeulemeester blazer with chic, refined detailing …

… a scrumptious orchid-colored puffy jacket with cropped sleeves and sweet yet almost "goth" kitten-princess necklace.

 

 

 

 

 

NEST   The perfect name for a boutique with a homespun yet vagabond flair.

 

New and vintage toys (check out the gorilla!), artwork, jewelry, furnishings and accessories.

I purchased this silkscreened tiger tote, printed cotton robe and wood handle purse … and love them all.

   

 

 

 

 

HEIDI SAYS SHOE SALON   The sole-ful sister store of the Heidi Says fashion trifecta.

 

 

 I found these flattering and totally versatile nude, patent leather wedges from Vera Wang Lavender.

 

 

 

 

ELIZABETH CHARLES   A uniquely curated collection of fashions and accessories.

 

This boutique was uh-MA-zing!  I fell in love with everything.

 

 

 

 

JONATHAN ADLER   Ebullient, over-the-top fun from this eponymous shop’s designer.

 

 

 

 

 

CROSSROADS    Vintage and consignment clothing, shoes, etc.

 

My [sporty, crunchy, anti-fashion] friend Lori nearly died of heart failure when I walked out of the dressing room in this get-up.  Yes I bought a pair of gold lamé, parachute pants and a cropped grey hoodie. I think they’re fabulous, comfortable and totally hot.  

 

 

 

 

JURLIQUE   Skincare, bath and body products.

 

My masseuse in Sonoma recommended that I pick up a bottle of essential eucalyptus oil and add it to my morning shower to help relieve my nagging cough.

 

 

 

 

OTD   Out-The-Door Vietnamese restaurant.

 

We recharged at Out-The-Door with noodles, dumplings and wine.  Yummm!

 

 

 

 

SWIG   Last stop ... cocktails of course!

 

 

 

 With a sexy vibe, live music and bar stocked to the hilt - this club was the perfect finish to a perfect day!

 

 

Tricia xosf

 

 

Scenes from a Vacation - Part I

  

I just spent five days in Northern California with six girlfriends from home.  We’re known

as “the nine” (I’ve mentioned them before) and were obviously short two on this trip.  We

get together every summer, but this year we decided to do something extra special.  To

round up that many women with husbands and careers and kids is no small task, so the

fact that we accomplish it at all is a big deal.  An even bigger deal is how long we have

sustained our friendships.  They date back to high school, grammar school and even pre-

school for two of us.  Our longevity and stamina definitely warrant a celebration and where

better to do that than wine country USA – Sonoma and Napa. It was the perfect venue. 

Gorgeous vistas, delicious food and the chance to talk, laugh and share with friends I rarely

see, but couldn’t live without.  Cheers to my crazy, spirited, hilarious gaggle of girlfriends! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Night one decompressing on our deck with cocktails.

Our house was situated at the top of a mountain with views of the whole valley.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 We were picked up bright and early on day two for a day of wine tasting.

That’s our driver in front leading us up a path to our first winery, Quixote.

 

 

 

 Quixote is not your run-of-the-mill winery.  The unusual architecture, incredible art

collection and one-of-a-kind wine barrels with their candy-colored hoops added to the

magical, Willy Wonka-esque atmosphere.  And then of course, there was the wine.

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

At the second winery, Honig, I found my Napa vibe …very chiiillll.

 

 

 

 

 

For our third stop, we enjoyed a hillside lunch with the owners of the Frias

Family Vineyard.  It was a lovely, low-key transition between wineries.

 

 

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

The final winery of the day was Flora Springs in St. Helena.  Thank goodness for our laid-back

 and tolerant guide, Travis.  We were pretty pickled by that point, so you can only imagine what a

handful we were.  He took it all in stride and treated us to perhaps our favorite tour of the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

We spent day 3 in Sonoma at the spa and finished with dinner at Della Santina’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our group split up on our last day in wine country.  Four of us chose to go riding on the Kunde Estate.

The breathtaking views and our fantastic guide Dominic created a near perfect afternoon. 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 One last night of delicious wine and food at the award-winning Bistro Jeanty in Yountville – the

tomato soup in puff pastry was a big hit with the girls – and then it was back home for most of the

group.  My friend Lori (far left) and I spent an extra day in San Francisco … but that’s another post.

 

 

  

 

 

 

Read about San Francisco in my next post, Scenes from a Vacation – Part II.

 

Tricia xo

Tricia's 10: Before & Afters

 

 Everyone loves a makeover.  It’s no wonder shows like What Not to Wear, The

Biggest Loser and Extreme Makeover - Home Edition are so popular … “bettering”

and “beautifying” are America’s favorite pastimes.  That’s probably why interior design

has such a following these days.  It’s certainly the main reason I became a designer

myself.  There is nothing more satisfying than transforming an ugly duckling into a

swan and I do it for a living.  I’m a pretty lucky girl.  And with this fortuitous career

comes a bevy of photos recording my redesigns over the years.  You can’t always

get that perfect before-and-after shot, but when you do, what fun it is to see!

 

 

  

 

 

 

1.  Powder Room ½ Washington Design Center Showhouse

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

2.  Foyer ½ Arizona Retreat

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  Den ½ Arizona Retreat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

4.  Foyer ½ Georgetown Pied-à-Terre

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.  Kitchen ½Georgetown Pied-à-Terre

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.  Living & Dining ½ Penn Quarter

  

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.  Dressing Room ½ Harbor Penthouse

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.  Dining Room ½ Virginia Manor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.  Foyer ½ Maryland Countryside

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

10.  Family Room ½ Maryland Countryside

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Tricia xo

 

* photos by Kevin Allen and Tricia Huntley

A Funny Thing Happened on The Way to Phoenix

  

I got pneumonia.

 

I had been trying to shake a fever for days thinking with enough pills and a heaping dose of denial

 I would be fine by the time I landed in the Valley of the Sun.  Not so much.  With aches, chills, a

painful cough and a temp peaking around 104, it’s a wonder I survived the flight at all.  The good

news is that my parents live in Arizona half the year and my mom has an arsenal of doctors on

hand.  Within two hours I had seen the doctor, had a chest x-ray, was diagnosed and stocked

with half a dozen medications.  Amazing.  That just doesn’t happen here in DC.  So although my

trip to Arizona felt more like a hospice visit, I’m thankful that I was in a place where the word

“healthcare” is still a literal term and there is a bright side to everything – even pneumonia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My posts – like my breathing – may be a bit patchy while I recover.

I’ll be sure to deliver some fabulous photos of AZ when I’m back on my feet.

 

Tricia xo

 

 

 

Tipping the Scales

  

What happens when you take the Caribbean sun, add a weeklong sailing trip and throw in a

pasty lass of northern European* decent?  You get one crispy chic.  My trip to Guadeloupe

and Isle des Saints was fabulous.  We had gorgeous weather -  cloudless skies, bright blue

water and gentle breezes.  Just what the doctor ordered.  But maybe not the dermatologist.

I often mention how much care I take with my skin.  I wear sunblock everyday and haven’t

spent dedicated time in the sun since I was twenty.  The problem?  When I do go in the sun,

I fry up faster than bacon in a skillet.  So although I do have a healthy glow about me, I’m

also starting to peel.  Unhealthy and gross, but not without some humor.  In light of my flaky,

peeling appearance, I figured I would feature all things scaly and reptilian this week.  I love

texture - I just prefer to see it on stilettos and handbags and not so much on my face.

  

  

 

 

 

 

 

- Handbags -

 

 

 

 

left: vintage (top), Temperley London (bottom)

middle: Alexander McQueen (top), Bottega Veneta (bottom)

right: Amber & Babzoe (top), Lanvin (bottom)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Footwear -

 

 

 

clockwise from top left: Dior, Roberto Cavalli,

Elizabeth & James and Fendi

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Fashion -

 

 

 

left to right: Burberry, Bottega Veneta, Zara

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Furnishings -

 

 

 

top left & bottom right: Huntley & Co. custom collection

bottom left: David Iatesta

top right & bottom middle: R&Y Augousti

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wishing you (and your skin!) a safe and festive season of sun.

 

Tricia

* Norwegian, German, English & Irish   ; )

 

 

 

Swan Song

 

My vacation officially starts Wednesday at 9:30AM.  Hallelujah!  I’ve heard

“You need a vacation” a little too often lately, so clearly it’s time to get the

hell out of Dodge.  Luckily, my partner-in-crime has a good friend with a Swan

51 sailboat currently docked in Guadeloupe that’s just waiting for some guests. 

Drift around, sip cocktails, eat good food and explore the island.  BRING IT ON! 

So in the spirit of checking out physically, mentally and socially – all you’re going

to get from me today is a hello and goodbye … and, of course, a couple of teasers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guadeloupe

 

 

 

 

 

Swan yachts gather in the Caribbean. 

  

 

 

 

 

 Me in T-minus 24 hours.

 

 

 

 

 

See ya!

 

Tricia xo

 

 

 

Spring Greens

  

Is there any other color on your mind this time of year besides green?  

Trees are budding, the grass is coming back and we’ve just celebrated St. Patrick’s Day.

It feels like we’ve turned a corner and everyone is in higher spirits, so let’s rejoice in the one

hue that delivers a boost of happiness just when we need it most.  Kelly, chartreuse, lime or

sage – whatever the shade – you are sure to find glorious greens all around you this spring.

 

 

 

 

- nature / exteriors -

“Green” buildings Ann Demeulemeester in Seoul and the Caixa Forum in Madrid.  

Spanish copper wall image c/o My Life My Vibe.

Porch by Boxwood Home & Interiors.

Iguana photo c/o Trek Nature.

 

 

 

 

 

 - interiors -

 

Interiors by Sills Huniford, Geoffrey Bradfield, Steven Gambrel and Jeffrey Bilhuber.

 

 

 

 

 

- art -

 

Art by David Drebin, Salvador Dali, John Singer Sargent,  

Thomas Wilmer Dewing, Modern House Art,

Robert Motherwell and Brad Bannister.

 

 

 

 

 

- textiles & finishes -

Samples from the Huntley & Co. library.

 

 

 

 

 

- fashion & beauty -

Shoes by Lanvin.  

Clutch and cuff available through Vivre.

Gucci and Costume National runway photos.

 

 

 

 

 

- tricia ; )  -

 

 

Happy spring!

 

Tricia xo  

  

 

 

 

 

A Perfect Fit

Luxe & Lucid is hosting its first guest blogger this week. At the helm is Molly Hammond -

assistant designer, project manager, and all around go-to girl at Huntley & Co.  With a unique

sense of style and impeccable writing she is sure to deliver a beautiful and memorable post. 

See you all next week!

Tricia xo

 

 

Rather than going into studio art, I was steered towards interiors with the help of my older sister, also a designer.  

It gives me the opportunity for practical application of principles I learned in painting, and honestly is more

suited for my personality since every day is different on this job. From time to time, I miss working with

   my hands and can find infinite inspiration by studying other disciplines. All in all, there is no other work

I would rather do. One of my favorite aspects of the design process is materials selection. I want to share

the work of a few jewelers, furniture makers, and architects that have pushed the boundaries of the materials

they are composing with, have really created something magnificent out of something ordinary, and have

risen to the challenge of fabricating their designs: you may notice they are all like intricate puzzles.

     

 

- CERAMIC -

These ceramics by Solomia Zoumaras are exquisite. Some of her pieces are interlocking.

 

- PAPER -

Jewelry by Janna Syvanoja represented by Alternatives Gallery in Florence. The amount of precision required

to work with such a delicate material to create these ethereal forms is amazing to me.  These shapes could

  translate to larger scales sculptures. I have been obsessed for years and still love

these pieces as much now as when I first saw them.

- CONCRETE -

Who else but Scarpa? Its possible that just looking at these details makes me giddy.

I would love to study the original detail drawings for these.

Top two, snapshots taken in Venice at Olivetti: Bottom two, Brion Vega Cemetery 

 

 

From top left: A staircase at the Palazzo Della Penna in Perugia.(which also houses a collection

of chalkboards by Joseph Beuys) Casa Dos Cubas by Embaixada Architects.

  A sculpture at a private residence by Tsao & McKown 

 

 

 - MIXED METALS -

Two brooches in mixed metals by Stefano Marchetti. Some of his additional work is posted

on a favorite inspiration resource, Klimt 02.  I am drawn to works with a combination

 of sculptural, free forms realized by meticulous craftsmanship.

 

 - STONE -

Kengo Kuma built this assembly space from Ooya Stone.

 

- CLOCK HANDS -

The wildcard.  I had never though of this as an agent for artistic creativity but now I know differently.

From Left. Clock by Christiaan Postma. Jewelry by Sergey Jivetin, at Jewelers Werk

 

 

  - WOOD -

Made by Meta. In awe. “38 seamlessly joined, curving facets of superbly matched Cocobolo Veneer”

- MORE PERFECT FITS -

Art & Food: an architect & a designer

Left to my own devices, I would probably spend every available weekend at a museum. So, to have

someone that it enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the same is beyond wonderful - I'm really fortunate.

A few weeks ago my fiance and I had a chance for some exploring in New York after visiting friends.

It’s surprising what you can fit into one afternoon, even upstate. We didn’t leave the city until noon,

but still managed a 1 hour drive up the Hudson on a sunny day, time to bask in the almost-unimaginable-

expansiveness of the Dia Beacon, a quick tour of downtown Beacon’s antique shops, and the most delicious

dinner of my life.  It’s a very feasible outing and a memorable experience: keep in mind for the next time

you are in the area! My highest recommendation.

 

At the Dia Beacon. Top: John Chamberlain.  Bottom: Michael Heizer, North, East, South, West.

Richard Serra. The Dia is located directly on the Hudson,

so it gets incredible light like I haven’t seen anywhere else.

  

 Blue Hill at Stone Barns.  I am still having dreams about this place. Every detail is accounted for.

(Architecture by Peter Guzy of Asfour Guzy Architects) We intended to dine in for lunch, but

got wrapped up at the Dia so we made it for dinner instead. Getting a table on a Saturday night

without a reservation is impossible, so dinner was served at the bar after enjoying expertly blended

cocktails by the fireplace.  These bartenders know more about what they do than I may ever know

 about design, and having their company for dinner was half the fun.  A five course “Farmers Feast”  

was actually more like 8 courses and the whisky tasting alongside the meal was another bonus.

      My first time having Rip Van Winkle Bourbon ... as much for the name and packaging as the flavor.

 

 

 

I had to hold back from gasping at every presentation. Vegetables served on

spikes (!), potato chips woven with sage leaves, and I even wanted to take

home the gorgeous bread basket.  And those are just the appetizers.

 

 

 

Thank you for letting me take over this week, Tricia.

Hopefully you all enjoy - and hopefully I’ll be back again :)

- Molly

H&C a la Montreux

  

As mentioned in last week’s post, I have been in Switzerland installing a project.

And as many of you know, I’ve been working a lot lately.  So even though no one

likes to spend their weekends at the office or pulling all-nighters, the magic of being an

interior designer is that you get to enjoy the tangible results of all your hardship … 

THE APARTMENT IN MONTREUX IS STUNNING!  

Beyond the fact that I love every single thing we installed – the wallcoverings,  

the furniture, the lighting, the textiles, the accessories –  the views and the town

of Montreux itself are extraordinary.  The work was dirty and exhausting, but with

distractions like Lake Geneva out your window, who cares!

The apartment - day one.  Umm???

Yikes!  Needless to say, this is not what we were expecting.  So much for a move-in

ready apartment.  This not-so-insignificant mess is a big detail for management to omit

from our conversations pre-departure.  OK … take a deep breath and work the problem. 

Because there is a truck full of furniture outside and it needs to be installed – somehow.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

The silver lining?

 

 

The view!!!

  

  

  

  

So instead of installing right away …

We run errands, meet with management and vendors, clean and walk the property.

A trying and exhausting day, but it’s hard to complain in an environment like this.

 

At day’s end, we all need a nice dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Huntley & Co. stayed at the Suisse Majestic, so four of us had dinner in the hotel’s

restaurant – Restaurant 45 - and had a lovely time before crashing for the night.

 

 

 

Moving onwards and upwards on day two with deliveries.

Furnishings are in and floors are clean (for now).

Is there anything more satisfying than progress?!

  

  

  

  

On days three and four, wallpaper goes up and we unpack all the accessories.

 

It may be a mess, but it’s my favorite kind of mess … Christmas in September!

  

 

 

 

We often ran errands during the day because there was always something else we

or our installers needed.  This day we stopped for lunch at the Hotel Eden du Lac.

  

 

 

Yep, just another day in Montreux.

 

 

 

After another couple of days of cleaning and styling, we have a finished apartment.  Almost.

 

There were a few things (besides the original mess) that didn’t go as planned.  The artwork

for the foyer was damaged in transit, one of the beds was missing from the delivery and the

Swiss team hired by the property didn’t finish all of their work.  One of the workers literally

laughed in our faces when we told him to go buy the part he needed and to come back.  So it

looks like I’ll have to go back to Switzerland in October to wrap up the final details. 

 Bummer ; )

  

  

 

 

Tricia 

P.S. A huge thank you to our Swiss logistical team Kuehne + Nagel!

 

 

25 Signs You May Be Working Too Much

  

Greetings from Switzerland!

Huntley & Co. is in Montreux this week installing a residence on Lake Geneva.  Yes, I’m a lucky girl.

But as is often the case, leaving town for a week requires a lot of overtime at the office prior to departure.

You have to get your ducks in a row (see item 4 below) for your employees, your other clients and your personal

life.  And there is never enough time.  Rather than looking for sympathy, you might as well find a little humor in

the situation.  I started generating the list below on Friday thinking it would be ten items long.  By Monday, I was

up to twenty-five and completely delirious from a lack of sleep.  It was all worth it though.  All is going well here in

Montreux and I know everything is running smoothly back home in DC as well.  Now if I could just get some sleep!

 

1.    Your to-do list is 4 pages long, has a table of contents and an addendum.

2.    You don't know what day (or month, or year) it is.

3.    You can feel your eyeballs scraping the inside of your eyelids.

4.    You use phrases like "ducks in a row" ad nauseum.

5.    You are aware of DC's disturbingly high nocturnal rat population.

6.    Coffee has replaced one of the four main food groups.

7.    At least 3 times a day you walk across a room and can't remember why once you get there.

8.    Your keyboard has developed a strange film on it.

9.    You looked better when you had the flu last winter.

10.   Your dog has abandonment issues.

11.   Your laundry pile resembles Mount Everest.

12.   Eating dinner at midnight seems reasonable.

13.   Bathroom breaks are a nuisance.

14.   Your communication skills have regressed to the first grade level.

15.   Your significant other thinks there may be someone else.

16.   Walking out of the house and leaving something behind incites tears.

17.   The beautiful weather pisses you off.

18.   Friends are mad at you because your emails of late have been "curt".

19.   You catch a little shut-eye by closing your eyes as you walk.

20.   "Twitchy" is an understatement.

21.   You would sell your soul for a few extra hours.

22.   A sisal floor is surprisingly comfortable.

23.   You realize you have no business operating a motor vehicle.

24.   You miss the good ol' days of the recession.

25.   You create entertaining lists like this so you can cope.

 

 

See you back in the states!

Tricia xo

 

 

Summer Vacation

... mine has officially started.

I'm spending the week in my hometown of Minneapolis with family and friends.

There is no place I would rather be this time of year than the land of ten thousand lakes.

It's the perfect destination for the three essentials of a summer vacation - sun, fun and

relaxation.  I lounge at my parents', soak in the sun, catch up with the girls and breathe.

Not much to it really, but it's always nice to have a plan - if a somewhat loose one - in place.

Below are some of the activities I've scheduled for my week in the beautiful "mini apple". 

 

 

 

 

Lake Minnetonka

This vast and intricate chain of bays is a summer must for tourists and

natives alike.  You can tie up at Big Island, stop for drinks at Lord Fletcher's

or simply cruise along while enjoying 100+ miles of beautiful shoreline. 

 

 

A typical summer day at Lord Fletcher's.

 

 

Chez Huntley is on the north shore of Lake Minnetonka in Crystal Bay.

 

 

 

 

Pool Time

My sun-worshipping days are long gone.  I haven't spent committed time

in the sun in nearly twenty years.  But the rents have a pool with a view

of the lake.  So really, I'm going to pass up a day of lounging poolside with

my ipod, a tall drink and a couple of fashion mags?  Puhleeez!

 

 

 

I picked up two delicious magazines before my flight.  Check out the August issues of

Elle and Vogue featuring Drew Barrymore and Gwyneth Paltrow respectively. 

Great features and fall fashion previews!

 

 

 

 

 

Walker Art Center

I haven't been in years, so I plan to spend a day at this world-class museum and

adjacent sculpture garden with dinner after at Wolfgang Puck's restaurant 20*21.

 

 

 

Claes Oldenburg’s famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture at the Walker.

 

 

The view from 20*21 includes Loring Park and the Basilica.

 

 

 

 

Neighborhood Driving Tour

Before I was an adult and a professional interior designer, I was a design voyeur.

As a teenager, I loved driving through Minneapolis and its western suburbs soaking

in the architecture and atmosphere of the neighborhoods.  I haven't done that in years

and am looking forward to visiting some of my favorites haunts like Edina, Kenwood

and Linwood Hills.  I see a blog post developing out of this.

 

 

Classics in Kenwood (above) and adjacent to Lake Harriet (below).

 

 

 

 

 

Lake Calhoun & Lake Harriet

During my high school years many a day, night and weekend were spent at these two

lakes.  Smaller in size and in the heart of Minneapolis, they're great for all kinds of activities:

running, biking, canoeing, windsurfing.  Plus, the Lake Harriet Bandshell features concerts

all summer long, so you can bring a date or the whole family for a picnic under the stars.

 

 

Windsurfers on Lake Calhoun.

 

 

Moored sailboats and the bandshell at Lake Harriet.

 

 

 

Weisman Art Museum

Designed by Frank Gehry and erected in 1993, this iconic steel structure on

the University of Minnesota campus is a precursor to the famous Guggenheim in

Bilbao, Spain.  The only Gehry-designed museum in the United States, it is

currently undergoing a major expansion scheduled for completion in 2011.

 

 

 

Girls' Night

My Midwest "besties" and I don't get quality time together but once a year.

So when we do, we make it count.  There's nothing better than hanging out,

sipping cocktails and laughing our a---s off for hours on end.

Five of “the nine” at our 20th reunion last summer at the Minneapolis W Hotel.

 

 

Hoping you all get the chance to get away, recharge and reconnect with the ones you love!

Tricia xo

District Design

 

New York, LA, Paris – Sure, everyone knows these cities are the “it” destinations for design

and fashion.  But there are fabulous finds in any city if you’re a chic and savvy girl (or guy) who knows

how and where to look.  “DISTRICT DESIGN” is a recurring feature from Luxe & Lucid that highlights

 great shopping in the US and beyond sourced by my most stylish friends and colleagues in-the-know.

 

 

District Design vol. 2

BARCELONA & MADRID

 

  

 

On the heels of its World Cup win over The Netherlands this past weekend, who better to

feature in District Design than Spain?  You couldn't help falling in love with this country upon

viewing the spirit and excitement of its players and fans throughout the finals.  Sarah, my oldest

friend from childhood - we started our education together in preschool - has had a lifelong love affair

with Europa Latina.  She has lived there since college and married a Spaniard.  She is probably more

Spanish than American at this point, but as someone who was raised in the U.S., she never loses her

enthusiasm for her adopted home.  In Luxe & Lucid's second installment of District Design, Sarah

will share her favorite sources for fashion and home as a stylish ex-pat in the know.  Viva España!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FURNISHINGS RESOURCE?

 

Two great, high-end resources for the home are ArteEspaña and Becara.

Both have retail locations in Madrid and Barcelona.

 

 

 

Table from ArteEspana and accessories from Becara. 

 

 

 

 

WHAT WAS YOUR LAST STELLAR FIND?

Gold leaf mirrors for our dining room and a gold-flecked frame that instantly jazzed up a lackluster print.

 

  

Artwork at Hotel Pulitzer in Barcelona c/o La Dolce Vita.

 

 

 

 

IS THERE A PREFERRED LINEN SHOP IN MADRID?

 

Yes!  The best buy for your money is at Sandra Marquez.  It’s a Portuguese chain and

Portuguese textiles are lovely.  You can find quality linens – for bath, bed, tabletop – at

great prices.  Her sheets have lovely detailing like scalloped edges and hand-embroidery. 

They’re soft, don’t need much ironing and last.  What more can you ask for?! 

 

 

 

 

 

HOW DO YOU WORK YOUR FASHION LOOK INTO YOUR HOME?

 

I like gold accessories and my living room has quite a few little gold accents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interior by Estefanía Carrero featured in Spanish AD Nov ’09.

Check out this mag.  Every issue blows my mind!

 

 

 

 

WHAT FASHION DESTINATION CAN YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?

That would have to be Zara.  They are completely in touch with the pulse of current fashion

and churn out new looks every two weeks, so their store is new every time you walk in.  Zara is 

known for taking hot looks off the street/runway and getting them into stores in record time.  They

mix up their styles and feature limited edition dresses and outfits that are really gorgeous.  You can

find your standard work uniform or weekend outfits in a snap.  Everything is well-priced, and while it’s

only good for a season or two, it’s great to get up-to-date pieces without breaking the bank.  Plus, it’s

one-stop shopping for women (including shoes), men and kids.  A great resource for moms on-the-go.

 

 

 

Styles from the Zara Lookbook.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT’S THE BEST KEPT SHOPPING SECRET IN SPAIN?

 

Boutiques like Hazel for shoes and Bimba & Lola for ready-to-wear clothes and accessories. 

Perhaps best of all? Zara’s new upscale shop called Uterque.  Check it out - it’s gorgeous!

 

 

 

 

Shoes from Hazel.

 

Spirited and coloful clothes and accessories from Bimba & Lola.

 

Handbags from Uterqüe.

 

 

 

 

 

* LUXE & LUCID PICKS FOR BARCELONA & MADRID *

 

Sarah and I are part of a group of longtime girlfriends in Minnesota (a.k.a. “the nine”).

Our friendships span 30+ years and we get together annually so that we stay on top of the

many changes we all go through and to keep our relationships au courant.  We pick a new

spot each year, and with our fortieth birthdays looming on the horizon (yikes!), we’ve decided

to do it up with a trip to Spain.  Sarah will, of course, provide us with many to-do’s and must-

sees for our little adventure.  But in true Tricia-style, I’ve started compiling a list of Luxe &

Lucid worthy pit-stops.  See some of my recent finds below.  And feel free to send me your

own recommendations.  I would love to hear from you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

 

 

 

- The Hotel Pulitzer in Barcelona -

Designed by the incredibly talented Lázaro Rosa-Violán.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- La Balsa Restaurante -

Patrons have included Joan Miró, Salman Rushdie and François Mitterand … must be good!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Bar Marsella -

Some of my artistic heroes – Dalí, Hemingway, Gaudí and Picasso – used to frequent this

Barcelona bar.  And they serve absinthe.  A sexy, mysterious spirit I’ve been enjoying lately.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- The Hotel Ritz Madrid -

Dining on the Terrace with views across the garden of the Prado Museum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MUSEUMS

 

 

 

 

- Museo del Prado -

Glorious garden, magnificent architecture and a stellar collection of works.

 

 

- The Museu Picasso, Barcelona - 

The Wait (Margot), 1901.

 

-  Museo Reina Sofia, Madrid -

Hombre con Pipa, 1925

Joan Miró

 

Guernica, 1937

Pablo Picasso's masterpiece

 

More to come as I troll blogs and poll my friends for the best resources España.

... and check out District Design vol. 1 from November 09.

 

Tricia xo

 

 

 

 

(C)happy

 

I spent this past weekend on Martha’s Vineyard.

Apart from several trips to Newport for hotel work a decade ago, I haven't spent any

time in New England.  I tend to migrate west for family get-togethers and downtime.

And being the contrarian-enthusiast that I am, I was tentative about a preppy endemic. 

I.e., an island saturated with bobbed hair, lockjaws and Lily Pulitzer ad nauseam.  Oh

ye of little faith (and so much paranoia)!  I didn't know what I was missing.  Pristine

architecture, majestic beaches and charming shops abound.  Add world-class

seafood to the mix and you have the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. 

 

 

 

* FRIDAY *

 

 Since our destination – Chappaquiddick – was east of Martha’s Vineyard,

we decided to take a driving tour of the island’s west side upon arrival.

 

 

  

 

 

First stop - The views of Gay Head.

 

 

 

 

 

 

To know me is to understand that I am a HUGE Jaws fan.  It’s one of my favorite

movies of all time (see the October Luxe & Lucid post “Mad About Macabre”).  Several

key scenes were shot in Menemsha (above) as well as on other parts of the island.

 

 

 

 

Aprés dinner and before hopping on the Chappy ferry, we stopped for a nightcap at Atlantic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The Mike Benjamin Band was headlining – they’ve played for Mary Steenburgen and

President Bill Clinton – and absolutely rocked the house.  We danced until we were soaked

through and closed down the bar.  Haven’t done that in a few years and loved every minute of it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

* SATURDAY *

 

 I woke up at 6AM ready to tackle the day’s itinerary and

enjoy the small window of sunshine forecasted for the weekend.

 

 

 

 

 

To make the most of it, we started the day with a little exploration and a walk on the beach.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Followed by shopping for groceries at the famous (and newly renovated) Morning

Glory farmer’s market.  I brought their blackberry/strawberry jam home to DC.  Yum!

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 But the real highlight of the day (well, for me) was a visit to Island Alpaca.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I fell in love with these animals when Sandra Jordan made a visit to Huntley & Co. this

spring.  Sandra’s eponymous company manufactures and imports incredibly beautiful

textiles from Peru.  She has a true passion for her fabrics and the Alpaca breed itself. 

How could she not?  Just look at those faces!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two babies and several “colorways” from Island Alpaca’s herd.

 

 

 

 

 

 This little fella’ had a passion for grooming.  So cute!

 

 

After all that excitement, we continued onto Vineyard Haven to do a little

sightseeing and shopping.  Below are a few of our stops.

 

 

 

 

 

 

RILEY'S READS

A charming children’s book store owned by the very knowledgeable Zoë

Pechter.  Check out her blog for new releases and recommendations.

 

  

BRAMHALL & DUNN

Great linens and tabletop items with [you guessed it] a slightly preppy

theme.  I did, in fact, find several sheet sets and coverlets from

Pamela Kline and Le Jacquard Français that were quite lovely.

 

 

RAINY DAY

A vast assortment of gifts, paper goods and tableware

that range from sweet to sophisticated to amusing. 

 

 

MIX

An eclectic mix of modern and vintage accessories.  I left with a darling

pair of sunglasses.  You can also find classic Golden books, antique

typeface letters and colorful dinnerware.  And the staff couldn’t be friendlier.

 

 

A. E. KIRKPATRICK

A slightly kooky jewelry store tucked away off of Main Street.  I found

a chic, bendable gold-plated snake bracelet/necklace for a song. 

I'm using it as a sculpture on my living room coffee table.

 

 

 

 

 

A great accessory that will change up my tablescape in a snap.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our long and active day required a nap and a nice dinner in Edgartown. 

We dined at Restaurant Détente, an unassuming spot in Nevin Square. 

Casual décor, excellent wine list, award-winning fare.

 

 

 

 

 

 

* SUNDAY *

 

 It’s hard to believe we had already packed all the activities above into 30 hours.

We didn’t slow our pace much on Sunday.

 

 

 

Morning is a great time to view Chappaquiddick’s wildlife in its natural habitat.  Besides

the incredible sea creatures (horseshoe crabs are freaks!), the bird-watching on

the island is pretty incredible.  We saw all of the species below during our visit.

 

 

 

 

clockwise from top left:  Osprey, Oyster Catcher, Snowy Egret and Cormorant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Later we headed to East beach across infamous Dike Bridge.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’ve never been the beachy-type, but I found all sorts of design inspiration

in the sand – a collection of shells and other organic materials that will

make great samples for custom furniture finishes.  I know …

Could I be any more entrenched in my profession?!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On our way back to the house we stopped for a stroll through Mytoi Gardens. 

A Japanese-style garden and cultural treasure protected by the The Trustees of Reservations. 

Still beautiful in the rain, I would like to go back when the gardens are lit by sunshine.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Despite the inclement weather, we went for a sail on Cape Poge.

The increasing winds turned a casual cruise into an exhilarating 2 hours.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you say “exhausted”?!  Only 3 things left to do …

Eat, cocktail, and relax.

 

 

And that’s how you do a fabulous weekend.

 

 

 

 

 

LUXE & LUCID RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR VISIT TO MARTHA’S VINEYARD

 

- The Vineyard’s official site is www.mvol.com and has a lot of useful info.

- Design Sponge’s December post featuring MV is Grace Bonney’s extensive, personal guide.

- I also like the New York Times Travel Guide because it includes reader recommendations.

- The island has an excellent radio station.  Tune into mvyradio and you’ll be set for the weekend.

- If you’re an architecture and/or design buff, bring your camera and do a walking tour of Edgartown.

- Pack layers for travel before July.  The weather can turn on a dime and become quite chilly when the winds pick up.

- With that said, a first time visit before the crush of July 4 is a great idea.  You can enjoy the island sans mob.

- Most important?  Make sure you travel with the right partner in crime!

 

 

 

Tricia xo

 

 

P.S.  Final cool moment of the weekend?  Bill Murray on our flight from MVA to LGA.

 

 

SATC

 

Memorial Day weekend was fabulous.  Tuesday through Thursday?  Not so much.

As is so often the case, the days post-holiday are slightly brutal.  I’m wiped out and

already looking forward to the weekend.  So what better way to finish off this fatiguing

four day work week, but with four letters … S A T C.  I’m going to Sex and the City 2

on Friday with a group of girlfriends.  Über girlie and indulgent, it’s just what the doctor

ordered in these days of careers and kids and booking get-togethers six weeks out.

Bring on the fab four, the Manolo’s and all that incredible fashion.  ‘Nuff said.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The fab four a la NYC.

 

 

 

 

 And rockin’ it in Abu Dhabi, scene of the girls’ middle eastern adventure.

 

 

 

. The film was actually shot in Morocco.  One location being the Amanjena resort in Marrakech.

 

Ladies who lunch … a glamorous Arabian picnic.

I love Carrie’s breezy pink dress and bold cuff.

 

 

 

You never know when you’ll run into an ex, so you better be dressed for the occasion.

What better to wear to the Souk than a lilac taffeta skirt, Dior tee and heels?

Crazy, but so cute!

 

SJP’s fashion choices for the whirlwind SATC press tour were impeccable. 

Au courant, colorful and lively like the fictitious Ms. Bradshaw’s wardrobe. 

But a hint more elegant – apropos for a movie star (versus an NYC sex columnist).

 

 

 

 

 

Speaking of Carrie Bradshaw’s wardrobe … check out images of Mr. and Mrs. Big’s closet!

The online photos aren’t going to cut it.  I’ll have to pick up a copy of the new book as seen below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After the movie, celebrate with your girls with a night out on the town. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Or host the ladies at your pad and fix one of the Sex and the City inspired cocktails

as seen in The Huffington Post.  My picks?  The Carrie Cocktail and The Bitter Ex. 

 

THE CARRIE COCKTAIL

 

2 oz. SKYY Vodka
0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. sugar
Drop of crème de cassis

Rim a crystallized Swarovski martini glass with crème de cassis and

sugar (first dip the rim in a shallow dish filled with crème de cassis and

then into a dish of sugar). Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake vigorously and strain into the martini glass.

Finish the cocktail with a drop of crème de cassis on top.

Until the next installment (prequel?) my fellow fashionistas and SATC fans!

Tricia xo

 

 

Road Trippin’

On Friday I delivered my sweet but stressed Norwegian Elkhound, Nina, to a trainer in

Virginia for a much-needed behavioral boot camp.  To make the most of my time sans-dog,

I inaugurated my three weeks of freedom with a series of excursions to Warrenton, The Plains

and Maryland's western shore.  Road trips are a great way for a curious, visual or adventurous

soul to satisfy his or her inner explorer.  And better yet, you avoid the airport ... which is like

sticking hot needles in ones eye these days.  With a little planning and the right companion,

2 days and 3 nights plus a few hundred miles can be just the escape you've needed. 

Summer weekends are here, DC urbanites.  Get packed and get going! 

 

 

 

 

I stayed at The Black Horse Inn on Friday.  The perfect setting for

a Virginia bed-and-breakfast with rolling hills and grazing horses.

 

 

 

A view of the property's north side.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The stables are a short walk from the main house.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like everything on the property, the stalls are nicely detailed and well maintained.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had dinner at The Rail Stop on Friday night in The Plains.

A casual spot once owned by local Robert Duvall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After dinner we walked across the street to Forlano’s Market and had a glass of wine on the front porch.

This market/restaurant is the perfect addition to Main Street – charming, unpretentious and filled with

locals and visitors alike.  Dinner here will be on my itinerary the next time I visit hunt country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I planned on a quiet afternoon in old town Warrenton, but as it turned out, Saturday was the town’s

annual spring festival replete with bands, booths and lots of interesting characters.  Classic people-watching!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking down S. 3rd Street to E. Lee Street. 

I love the architecture, history and intimacy of southern towns.

 

 

 

 

We had lunch at The Iron Bridge Wine Co. on Main Street.  Delicious food and

great wine in a handsome setting with excellent service to boot.  Worth a trip.

 

 

On the way out of town, the clever signage for Tri County Feeds caught my eye. 

So much so that we pulled over to take a look inside.  In fact, the company

is a retailer specializing in riding gear and services for the equine set.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m no great equestrian, but if I were, I would definitely buy this saddle and outfit.  So chic!

 

 

Sunday required a change in gears with a drive to Maryland and a cruise up the Potomac back to

DC via boat.  I commented at one point that the shoreline reminded me of Lake Minnetonka.

That is until I saw a little estate called Mount Vernon perched on a hill on the Virginia side.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once up the river in DC, we stopped for awhile to enjoy the views.  Where else can you drift on a

boat on a beautiful day with little water traffic and gaze at the Lincoln and Washington Memorials?!?!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wrapping up the perfect easy-breezy weekend. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking forward to more local adventures while my canine kid is at camp!

 

 

Tricia (and Nina) xo

 

 

 

 

Capitol File Magazine - Georgetown Gem

The latest issue of Capitol File magazine dropped this week.

I'm thrilled to say that a Georgetown pied-a-terre designed by Huntley & Co.

is featured in its pages.  Not only because it's a big, glossy spread (yes, hello!),

but also because it's one of my favorite projects in recent years.  The residence was

a disaster with amazing potential - an 80s interior (think white laminate and pleated

valances - bleh!) in the heart of Georgetown with views of the canal.  Luckily, this

hidden gem was purchased by my client, an Irish businessman with great taste and

the desire to take risks.  Millwork modeled after English cabinetry, a state-of-the-art

German kitchen, bathrooms of marble and onyx, a custom wood parquet floor and

every luxurious textile known to man: velvet, shagreen, ostrich, cashmere and silk …

the end result was a rich and inviting space perfect for dramatic entertaining or quiet

nights at home.  The consummate American landing pad for a European world traveler. 

 

 

 

Speaker of the House Pelosi graces the cover.

 

The opening pages feature the terrace off the kitchen and a photo of my client overlooking the den.

 

 

A view from the den into the foyer with art found in DC, Chicago and Spain.  The bust is a

tongue-in-cheek reference to my client’s business in aerospace trading and airline consulting.

 

 

The top photo features the kitchen - a favorite of most visitors.  It includes a

stainless steel backsplash, two modern pendants found down the street in Cady's

Alley and a bar/table that slides away from the island for additional seating.

The photos beneath are of the study, den and guest bedroom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional photos of the project not included in the magazine …

 

 

 

I love the powder room.  It’s a shoebox of a space, but we gave it maximum impact

with dramatic color, unique materials and a serious mix of traditional and modern. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The master bedroom with hidden closet doors, leather slingback

bed, custom pillows and warm, contemporary lighting fixtures.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is how I do sleek and contemporary - with dramatic contrasts in tone and texture.

The vanity is high-gloss white lacquer, the walls and ceiling are covered in chocolate, faux leather

tiles, and the shower is a combination of polished Calacutta tile and a tumbled marble fan mosaic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

To fully understand what a transformation this was, check out the

collection of “before” photos below.  Yes, it is the same place! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hoping you all find a bit of inspiration for your own homes!

 Tricia xo

 

* All professional photos by Kevin Allen *

Spring Fever - DC Style

I don’t think I have ever been so excited for spring.

We just endured a brutal winter here in Washington and I think we’re

all ready for a new season.  The good news is that thanks to all that snow,

spring seems to have come early to the nation’s capital.  Our magnificent

cherry blossoms are already blooming and this past weekend’s temps were

absolutely heaven-sent.  In celebration of nature’s glorious transformation,

Luxe & Lucid is highlighting all things fun, fresh and flowery this week.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh … spring has arrived!

 

 

 

 

  

 

H&G’s 2007 issue with Chloë Sevigny embodies the magic of spring.

The stone terrace, the roses, the dress … inspiring and lovely.

 

 

 

 

 

Is there a more beautiful spot in spring than DC’s tidal basin?!

 

 

 

 

 The perfect finish to a day of viewing cherry blossoms?  A late afternoon lunch with

your beau in a romantic setting like The Greenhouse at The Jefferson hotel below. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Or for true al fresco dining, try DC hotspots Perry’s in Adams Morgan,

Poste Moderne in Penn Quarter and Kafe Leopold’s in Georgetown.

 

 

Or just skip lunch altogether and have a sexy, disheveled romp in the park! 

Louis Vuitton does it with dirt, doves and Lara Stone.

 

 

 

 

I do actually love spending my weekends in the park (sans romp); it’s a necessity

when one has a dog.  DC has incredible outdoor destinations.  My favorites are

Montrose, Battery Kemble and Dumbarton Oaks above.  

 

 

Great for casual Saturdays and Sundays walking around Georgetown,

these bamboo-buckled Gucci flats are a warm weather staple for me.

 

 

As is this playful tote.  I call it my “brunch bag".  I carry it on

weekends when I’m running errands and lunching with my girls.

 

 

As for the rest of my spring wardrobe – I need to do some serious shopping.

Here are some looks I’d like to rock ... from Jigsaw, Two Minds and Pucci respectively.

 

 

And for evening maybe a flowing pastel ensemble from Donna Karan.

 

 

Perfectly timed with the onset of spring, I received this card last week.  The modern

cherry blossom motif speaks to the brighter, sunnier days of spring.  It inspires

me to punch up my interiors with deep, saturated colors – especially yellow.

 

 

Like the chairs in this Vicente Wolf dining room …

 

 

 

… and the walls in this dynamic bedroom.

(who’s the designer?!)

 

 

Luxe & Lucid wishes everyone a wonderful spring.

And come see the cherry blossoms if you can - you'll never forget it!

 

 

Tricia xo