Luxe & Lucid

The Alchemy of Opposites

I mentioned in my last post that I like a little “rock-n-roll with my ladylike”.  That statement describes more than just my fashion sense – it’s a personal credo, a balancing act and the foundation for how I design.  Contrasting modern with traditional, sexy with conventional and subtle with provocative allows me to enjoy all the world has to offer.  More importantly, it’s the incongruity and tension that makes a room or collection [and even a relationship] sing.

  

 

   

Huntley & Co. interiors.

  

  

 

 

Mixing pieces that seem incompatible gives an ensemble just the right edge.

   

(L) Dries Van Noten, (M) unknown (R) Christopher Kane

 

 

 

 

It’s not easy to find a car when one’s style is epitomized by dichotomy. But this weekend, I actually spotted my dream ride.

 

 

I had never seen the Volvo 1800ES; it’s from the early 70s.  Part roadster, part wagon.  Stylized yet practical.  Sexy and a little weird.  I AM IN LOVE!

 

 

 

 

Dynamic duos – Opposites attract and are, truthfully, more interesting.

   

(L) “Portland, Oregon” blends Jack White’s tinny, rockabilly melody with Loretta Lynn’s old-school country style.

(M) Even more intriguing than Jesse and Walt’s differences on Breaking Bad are their internal dichotomies – troubled yet innocent heroine addict and conservative yet calculating high school teacher.

(R) Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller – the love story of a fragile seductress and brilliant playwright.

 

 

 

 

Food may be the most tangible way to enjoy nature’s complex and complementary offerings.

 

   

(L) Apricot stuffed pork shoulder with soy/honey glaze. (M) Figs and blue cheese wrapped in prosciutto. (R) Cannelini bean, salmon and caviar canapes.

 

 

 

 

Another one of nature’s delicious offerings – MEN!

     

 Polished/scruffy, strong/approachable, sexy/odd, clever/intelligent.  Mmmmm, one of each please.

 

 

 

 

Tricia xo

* You can find these photos and links on my Pinterest page *

 

NYFW

New York Fashion Week is coming to a close, and like so many, I’ve spent a significant amount of time trolling the internet looking at all the glorious goods.  I like to think I have a healthy relationship with fashion.  I’m not a slave to it, but I do enjoy pulling together my ensembles.  I love to mix styles and textures to give my look just the right amount of attitude.  Fashion is a form of expression much like interior design.  The upside is that it offers immediate gratification and I can switch up my style every day if I like to suit my mood.  That’s a nice change of pace for someone who works in an atmosphere of planning and permanence.  I’ve saved some of my looks from the past year along with a few of my favorite online fashion “clippings” for posterity.  If there’s a common thread among them, it’s contrast.  I like a little rock-n-roll with my ladylike and a bit of humble with my glam.    

  

         

        

  

 

Now for the real deal.

 

     

      

     

     

 

Tricia xo

 

One Kings Lane Sale

To do list for Tuesday, November 6:

 

1. Vote

2.  Shop my Tastemaker Tag Sale on ONE KINGS LANE!

 

- starts tomorrow 8AM west coast/11AM east coast -

 

Tricia xo

Holiday House

I’m participating in a showhouse (yes, another one!) later this month, in New York.  This particular event, the “Holiday House” benefits the Breast Cancer Foundation founded by Evelyn Lauder and is held at the Academy Mansion – an incredible upper east side property that left me speechless upon my first visit.  Auspicious location?  Check.  Worthy charity?  Check.  Client?  Hmm, not so much.  As with all showhouses, that particular detail is missing.  And with no real client, that means I have to invent one so that I have a jumping off point for my design and a concept to fall back on when I’m flooded with options.  Keeping in mind the grandeur of the spaces and the impetus for the event, it seemed a strong-willed, yet feminine muse fit the persona of my would-be client.  And who fits that description better than the legend herself, Marie Antoinette; the original “hostess with the mostest” with the backdrop to match.  Our room will become a lounge space complete with sofas, dining area and bar, so our modern-day M.A. can wine and dine her patrons and groupies in style.  We begin the installation next week, so here’s a sneak peek at some of the inspiration behind the upcoming transformation.

 

       

   

     

   

 

HOLIDAY HOUSE 2012

October 25 - November 18

2 East 63rd Street, NYC

[Re]defining Beauty

I made a long overdue trip to the nail salon this weekend for a mani/pedi. And while scanning the assortment of possible nail colors from which to choose, I stumbled upon a stunning shade of peacock blue. It's one of my favorite colors in general - rich, complex, almost regal - so the thought of it on my fingertips was titillating. Sure enough, I love it. Not only do I think the shade of blue is absolutely stunning, but in a strange way, I think it complements my skin tone. It's funny then that some of the conservative loved ones in my life don't share my enthusiasm. Don't they see what I see? What's not to like? Some people think pretty is synonymous with conventional. But I think some of the prettiest things are those that are actually unconventional. I'm not talking about anything bizarre or distasteful. I mean looking beyond labels and stereotypes and thinking about what makes something beautiful ... the confidence with which a man carries himself, the complex ideas behind an abstract painting, the texture of an unusual plant. Of course, what's stunning will always catch our eye, but sometimes beauty and substance wear an unexpected guise.

 

 

 

 

 

My peacock blue manicure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A study for “Woman Pulling Up Her Stocking” and “Salon in the Rue Des Moulins”.

Henri De Toulouse-Lautrec found inspiration in bars and brothels. Unseemly venues perhaps, but the artist found warmth and vivid color in these unlikely spectacles.

Felicity Brown’s 2010 collection was inspired by Toulouse-Lautrec’s work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tilda Swinton is a chameleon on and off-screen. She can look ethereal, severe or aristocratic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some people don’t like modern art or furniture. It’s hard to understand with gorgeous, sculptural shapes likes these.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who needs gold or diamonds? Dahlia Kloss’ necklace is a showstopper without precious metals or stones.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Although two of the world’s deadliest snakes, the Rosy Boa and Malayan Coral Snake are also two of the most beautiful.

 

 

 

 

 

 

John Hawkes, Mick Jagger & Adrian Brody.

The talent and swagger of these men makes their unconventional looks incredibly sexy.

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

 

Mother Nature, The Original Muse

I created the inspiration board below for a client this week.  The concept of “bespoke-modern-organic” is specific to this particular project, but it’s also an underlying theme I try to channel in my work.  I often find that design is at its best when it is inspired by something true and natural.  And I don’t mean conservative.  Mother nature is not exactly bourgeoisie; she rocks some pretty crazy stuff.  She informs some of the most interesting, avant garde art and design.  She’s the perfect muse.

 

 

 

    

 

  

 

 

 

   

Samples of stone slabs and my Christmas wrapping from last year.

 

 

 

 

   

The “bloom” of the coolest plant ever, Asclepias (aka Monkey Balls).  A pillow in the new Kelly Wearstler fashion boutique at Bergdorf’s. 

 

 

 

 

   

The underside of a mushroom being prepped for dinner.  Several pleating options from a favorite textile manufacturer in the DC Donghia showroom. 

 

 

 

 

       

The ribcage of a dinosaur skeleton at the Museum of Natural History.  A sculpture at Darrell Dean in Georgetown. 

 

 

 

 

       

 A beautiful shell I found on the beach in Chappaquiddick last summer.  House of Lavande’s Seashell Cuff.

 

 

 

 

       

The incredible artist, Julie Wolfe, took this photo in the Amazon rainforest while traveling via the Art in Embassies program.  My chic, French friend Sophie wears this delicate, yet modern bracelet with flair.

 

 

 

 

   

The simple beauty of a bird's nest finds its way to a handcrafted gold ring.

 

 

 

 

Thanks ma’ for all the goodies!

 

Tricia xo

 

Tune Out and Turn On

 

I’m inspired as of late.  I’m finding crazy/wonderous/beautiful things everywhere I look.  It’s like I’ve snapped out of a foggy stupor.  I haven’t discovered a new vitamin or taken up Buddhism, but I have made a committed effort to unplug from the oversaturated and under-inspired world of regurgitated design.  It’s become pretty obvious lately that most of what’s online, in magazines and in the stores is the same recycled concept over and over again – i.e., a random mix of genres with the ubiquitous pop of color, pseudo-ethnic pillows and obligatory mid-century focal piece.  Bleh, enough!  In this day and age it seems that the internet has become our main source of inspiration - I think that may actually be one of the seven signs of the apocalypse – and everyone is plugged into the same circuit.  So as one who is not only guilty of this crime, but who champions the cause (yes, I realize as a blogger I am the pot calling the kettle black), I say turn off your smartphone, log off Facebook, ignore this week’s blog feed and look around you.  There is beauty in the world!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

   

   

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

Chez Huntley - update 08/05

  

A great deal of progress has been made here in the past couple of weeks.  The millwork

installation – new casing, baseboards and bookshelves – is complete.  The painting has

been corrected and looks lovely.  Lighting fixtures have been installed in the foyer/living

room along with simple, modern light switches and receptacles throughout the main floor.

I’ve even styled my bookshelves and purchased a new painting for the dining room and a

pair of cast greyhounds for the front entry.  And as excited as I am to move on to the next

layer of furnishings and accessories, nothing is quite as important to good design as getting

“the envelope” right.  I use this term A LOT in my work.  Cleaning up the architecture of a

space and adding (or removing as the case may be) details is the key to a grounded and

balanced interior.  And there is something really beautiful about a well-executed space

that feels good even without any decor.  But of course, I’m an interior designer, so decor

is essential too.  Once I add the furniture, softgoods and artwork, the space will really sing.

 

 

 

 

- Projects -

 

 

 

 

I purchased this pair of deer sconces about 4 years ago and finally had the opportunity to

use them.  I … ahem, I mean we (I got a lot of help from Molly, H&C employee extraordinaire)

painted them white, so they have a more contemporary vibe appropriate for the house.

 

 

 

A major accomplishment for me: my very first lighting installation!

I was so proud.  I called my boyfriend, my parents and sent emails to friends everywhere.

 

 

 

- Millwork -

The new bookcases in my living room.  Cheap yet chic!

I kept the lines simple and wrapped the baseboard around the front for a clean, modern look.  You’ll see

that I was anxious to style the shelves with my books and accessories - I didn’t even wait to put away my tools. 

Above the shelves are the freshly painted deer sconces with extra long candle sleeves and taupe silk shades.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- New Purchases -

 

 

This abstract oil painting circa 1960 has incredible color that almost glows.

 

I found the painting above and this pair of greyhounds at Comer & Co. in Georgetown. 

A fantastic new shop with exquisite things and wonderful service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And speaking of dogs … I’m happy to say that Nina is feeling much better this week.

The little stinker kept pulling off her cone, so she was forced to rock this t-shirt instead.

My poor pup was quite the fashion victim last week.

 

 

Tricia xo

 

 

 

Personal Shopper - Summer Holiday

 

I think I could be a personal shopper in another life.  It’s like my day job, but

with clothes.  And with the social calendar of summer in full swing, there are a

bevy of opportunities for crafting looks that suit the occasion.  The coming holiday

weekend alone could demand a half dozen “fashion-scapes”.  With that in mind,

I have styled four summer looks for my Luxe & Lucid readers.  And although my

own ensembles typically consist of a mix of labels and price points, each of the

outfits below has been culled from a single source or shopping district to make your

purchase all the less painless.  That’s what summer is all about – easy and breezy.

 

  

Happy 4th of July!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Urban Fireworks -

Look by Urban Outfitters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Martha’s Vineyard Cookout -

  

  

Look by J.Crew

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Lounging in Palm Beach -

  

  

  

Look by Vivre

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

- Cocktails & Canapés -

Look by the shops of Georgetown

* Intermix, Karen Millen, Charm, Zara, Relish, Kate Spade & Hu’s Shoes *

 

 

Tricia xo

 

 

 

 

 

Tricia's 10: UHOF

 

 

       

My mother always told me, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.”

 Does that maternal wisdom apply to blogs?  It probably should, but I just can’t help

 myself.  We have a folder in the Huntley & Co. files labeled “UHOF”.  The [yoo-hawf]

folder contains images of designs we find to be, ahem, aesthetically challenging.  I’ll

admit it’s a little snarky.  What can I say - my staff and I simply believe it’s irresponsible

not to document design work that dares to go beyond good taste to, um well, the …

 

- Ugly Hall of Fame -

 

 

 

 

 1.  hollywood mcmansion ½ columns do not a mansion make!

 

 

 

 

 

2.  80s bedroom ½ even the decade of decadence can’t excuse this decor

 

  

 

 

3.  one-of-a-kind stag chair ½ perfect if your house is on the island of Dr. Moreau

  

 

 

 

4.  Celine Dion wedding attire ½ “I said more crystals!”

 

 

 

 

5.  satin bedroom ensemble ½ the love child of paris hilton and cotton candy

 

 

 

 

6.  Dutch sculpture, 1972 ½ terrifying - yet sold for 13,000 EUR at auction  

 

 

 

 

7.  flatscreen tv lift½ only in America

 

 

 

  

8.  dc dressing room ½ the ceiling from hell

 

 

 

 

 9.  shower tile mural½ who needs coffee when your morning starts with this?

 

 

 

 

 

10.  album cover½ career killer, web favorite and my new screensaver

 

 

 

 

If any of the above comments offend you, lighten up.

If you can’t get enough, click on these websites for more snarky fun:

 

www.uglyhousephotos.com

www.salamitsunami.com

www.uglypersianhouses.com

www.worstalbumcovers.org

www.gofugyourself.com

 

 

 

Tricia ; )

Lighten Up

 

I had a few inches chopped from my mane this week.  My hair usually reaches the middle of

my back, so now that it’s skimming my collarbone, I feel lighter, brighter, better.  I’ve embraced all

things cumbersome the last several years – heavy fabrics, chunky jewelry, pattern on pattern – and I

think I’ve had enough.  I’m ready to streamline and elevate my fashions, my interiors, my entire sense

of style.  The layering, the eccentric colors; I’ve loved it all.  But it may be time to move on … for now. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Tricia xo

 

 

 

row one: Mathias Dahlgren, Aerin Lauder, Hotel Claude Passart, Plaza Tower Atlanta

row two: Loop Candelabra, Katie Leede & Company, Chris Benz resort 2011, Sills Huniford

row three: Lady Grey, Loewe Fall 2010, Nestor Santa-Cruz, Koton Fall 2010

 

 

 

The Princess Bride

 

Today is one very important day for one very lucky girl.  If becoming a princess is lucky that is.

Kate Middleton weds Prince William today and much of the world will be watching.  Brits, Royal-enthusiasts

and wedding aficionados will be tuning in by the millions to see what the bride has in store for us.  I do like the

princess-to-be.  She’s pretty and polished and seems to have a gracious sensibility about her.  But fashionable?

Let’s not get carried away.  If I could, I would love to give her a makeover and style her on her wedding day. 

Plausible?  No.  But that’s what you gotta’ love about a blog.  I can indulge my fantasies right here on the internet. 

Below I’ve pulled together what I think would be the perfect look for Ms. Middleton on her wedding day.  Guess it’s

time to add a new title to my resume … “Tricia Huntley: Imaginary Stylist to HRH Princess Catherine of Wales”.

  

  

  

 

 

 

- The Dress -

 

 

A perfect fusion of traditional elegance and youthful modernism.  This mermaid-style, lace dress

would be a stunner on the thin, brunette bride who likes simplicity and form-fitting silhouettes.

 

Elie Saab Ceres dress

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- The Veil -

 

 

Considering the formality of the occasion, I would recommend a floor length veil.  But if

the bride were more comfortable with tea length (and royal protocol allowed for it), then

the veil at left would look just as beautiful with the Elie Saab dress as the one at right.

 

Homa Bridal spring 2011 collection veils

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Shoes & Bag -

 

 

 Intricate handiwork and one-of-a-kind details are what make these accessories fit for a

[future] queen.  I love the idea of these pumps peaking out from beneath the hem of

the ivory lace gown.  And the beading and stonework of the bag is just incredible.

 

Manolo Blahnik heels and Larissa Barrera evening bag

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Jewelry -

 

 

 

Jewelry is very personal and much more of a moving target than the dress.  What would I suggest

for a young bride on the cusp of royalty?  Pieces that are exquisite, but simple.  And I would keep

it to a minimum.  The bride’s look will live in infamy, so nothing flashy.  A pair of platinum, diamond and

coral pendant earrings along with an antique cameo brooch pinned in the hair at the chignon.  Beautiful,

unique pieces that complement the sapphire engagement ring that is at once impressive and sentimental.

 

Lalique Salome Brooch (1904) and Cathy Waterman earrings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Makeup & Hair -

 

 

 

For Kate’s makeup, I would suggest rosy cheeks, pale lips and soft eyes.  And absolutley no black

eyeliner!  For hair, a low sideswept chignon is a chic and contemporary alternative to a traditional updo.

 

makeup by Estee Lauder

 

 

 

 

Congratulations go out across the pond to the royal couple on their wedding day.

Keep calm, BE HAPPY and carry on.

 

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   ; )

 

 

 

Branded

 

There is one question I receive more than any other from prospective clients, writers, editors, vendors and

the public-at-large.  “What’s Your Style?”  Simple enough I suppose.  After all, most designers and novice

decorators have a catch phrase … “edited elegance”, “shabby chic”, “retro glam”, etcetera.  The funny thing

is that despite having worked as an interior designer for fifteen years and having my own firm for five, I’ve never

been able to provide a nice neat answer to that all-important question.  I guess I found it difficult to sum up all

of my professional passions and aspirations into a few choice words.  And perhaps subconsciously I realized

that I needed to soak up as much as I could from the talented pool of designers, architects and artisans around

me before attaching myself to a specific slogan.  Or maybe I’m just a knucklehead.  Whatever the reason, in this

era of branding, I think it’s time to find a trademark for TRICIA HUNTLEY INC. and certainly for HUNTLEY & CO.

I believe I have a contender, so I’m hoping the Luxe & Lucid audience will help me with my decision.  Based on

the cues below, let me know if I’m on target.  I welcome comments and suggestions from my clever readers.

 

 

 

 

 

- Influential Designers -

 

 

  

 

Sills Huniford (now parted), Jeffrey Bilhuber & Solis Betancourt (top to bottom),

Three stellar firms that deliver genius with every project.  Of course, I may be a little partial to SB

since it is headed by my former bosses who happen to be the nicest, most gracious men on earth.

 

 

 

 

- The Glamour Found in Nature -

 

       

     

I love me a manicured hedge and a nice hunk of rock.

Jacques Garcia temple photo c/o World of Interiors

 

 

 

 

- Gorgeous, Dramatic Art -

 

 

 

 

   

 

  

 

 John Singer Sargent, Elliott Puckette, Francisco Goya & Giacometti (top to bottom).

 

 

 

 

- Sexy, Laid-Back, All-American Fashion -

 

 

Tory Burch, Gwyneth Paltrow and one of my favorite looks -  skinny jeans, flats and a [faux] fur coat. 

 

  

 

 

 

- My Collected Thoughts-

 

 

 

 

 

This scrapbook is a collection of images I have pulled because they are beautiful

and inspiring, regardless of context.  I started this “stream of consciousness” project

to help me with the idea of branding and to jump start the design for my own house.

 

 

 

 

 

 

- My Own Work -

 

 

 

Whether I’m working on a modern apartment or sprawling traditional home, there are always

three elements key to my interiors; they need to be beautiful, original and unpretentious.  Not 

only do I want them to reflect the spirit and lifestyle of my clients, but I want them to be livable.

 

  

  

  

  

 

  

  So taking all of the above into consideration, I think the best way to describe my style is …

 

 

 

 

“NATURAL GLAMOUR”

 

 

 

 

  Wacha’ think?  Tricia xo

 

 

 

* Refer to blog posts Designer DNA and Wuzzup?

as well as the Huntley & Co. website for more info.

  

 

 

 

Much Ado About Nothing

  

I had my heart set on a particular feature this week, but I can’t find the key image.  And although I

have 30 or so folders containing potential posts stocked away in my computer, I’m just not feeling

it for any of them right now.  The truth for lifestyle bloggers is that we do feel the need to deliver

something meaningful and beautiful and somewhat original to our audience.  And as a practicing

designer with my own firm, I feel a particular obligation to perform.  Excellence in design is my

professional pursuit – churning out or championing mediocrity does not hold particular appeal. 

So with that in mind, I offer you a list of some of my favorite resources to provide you with the

 inspiration that so clearly escapes me this week.  Hopefully I’ll be back on my game next week.

 

... And I’ll have found that !@%$#% picture!

 

 

 

 

Vivre -  catalog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Isabel Lopez-Quesada – designer website

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lonny – e|zine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Thoughtful Eye – blog 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saipua – website, blog

 

 

 

 

 

 

AD España  – magazine

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bijoux and Boheme – blog

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Spend It – Financial Times magazine

 

 

  

 

 

… I think I may feel inspired again  ; )

 

Tricia

 

 

 

 

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  

  

 

 

 

 

Winter Warm-Up

While at Battery Kemble Park this past weekend with Nina, I was reminded why some people love

 winter.  The sky was clear, the sun was shining and the snow was glistening in the treetops and underfoot. 

It really was magical.  I later wrote to a friend that it was a perfect day - “warm and sparkly”.  Not exactly a

scientific description, but spot-on nonetheless.  Although I don’t think I’ve ever used those exact words to describe

a project, I certainly could have.  I’ve embraced that concept a few times over the past few years.  One renovation

in particular comes to mind.  Huntley & Co. redesigned a Pennsylvania Avenue apartment for a client in 2009.  The

goal was to create an urban oasis for a chic and independent woman in her early 30s with a love of family, fashion

and fun.  We created a feminine yet spirited home pour cette femme who was (and is) warm and sparkly herself. 

The space was completely transformed, our client was thrilled and the apartment is still the dreamiest on the block. 

The perfect place, in fact, to kick back after a long winter’s day spent at the dog park.  Hmmm …

Does someone want a house guest?   

  

 

 

 

 

Pennsylvania Avenue “Jewel Box” Apartment

Huntley & Co. 2009

 

 

 

 

 

Further evidence of my love for all things "warm and sparkly".  A gorgeous chunk of

Pyrite I found at a flea market and “All Hail McQueen” polish by Butter London.

 

 

 

 

 

I could buy table settings all day long.  Especially in glimmering metals like these. 

I found these gorgeous wares on scouting trips to Pennsylvania and L.A. respectively.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A little sparkle up top does everyone some good.  A fox at Oliver Dunn in Georgetown

wears a diminutive crown while watching the foot traffic outside.  And Coco Rocha looks

every bit the queen in one of my all-time favorite Grace Coddington-styled Vogue shoots. 

 

 

 

 

  

  

  

 

The perfect combination of design elements to create the warm modern look I love – the perpetually dazzling Met

Chandelier as seen at Moss in NYC and a simple firebox with brass surround by Chakib Richani for Elie Saab. 

Simple and architectural meets complex and detailed with the common denominators of light, reflectivity and glamour.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two women who never fail to sparkle on the red carpet.  Kate Beckinsale and Jennifer Lopez always have a beautiful,

polished, “glow from within” look about them.  It’s in their fashion choices, makeup application, jewelry and glossy hair.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Katie Lee Joel’s mirrored dressing table and accoutrements complement nicely a

Huntley & Co. foyer with luminous silk drapery panel and imported mosaic floor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What better way to warm up mid-winter than with bubbly cocktails in a chic yet cozy setting. 

During the winter months, mon amour and I like to imbibe and nuzzle at Agaiin, Le Chat Noir and

Café Bonaparte.  To see the most glamorous cocktail hour ever recorded on film, check out the

Paris Je T’aime spread on vogue.com or watch The September Issue on video.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Be safe, stay warm and sparkle this winter season!

 

Tricia & Nina

xo 

 

 

 

 

* All professional Huntley & Co. photos by Kevin Allen Photography *

 

Ice Queen

 

We had a terrible ice storm in DC this week.  The freezing rain started about 7PM on Monday

and lasted all night.  By morning the street outside was as slick as a skating rink and the trees

were dripping with icicles.  Treacherous … yet pretty.  Downed power lines, sidewalk pitfalls,

car crashes - that’s the downside.  The upside?  Inspiration for a blog post and maybe a future

design scheme.  OK, maybe that’s a little insensitive.  Alas, when you have a deadline each

week and work in a competitive industry, you have to stay sharp.  Hmmm.  Cold … yet creative.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Steven Meisel’s soft and ethereal version of an ice queen for the cover of Vogue.

  

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Ensembles from Karl Lagerfeld’s Fall/Winter 2010-11 runway show for Chanel. 

I believe he must have been inspired by The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Anderson. 

  

  

  

  

 

  

  

  

  

 

In grammar school I was totally captivated by the story of The Snow Queen. 

I am sure I would find it equally beautiful and haunting as an adult. 

  

  

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chandeliers fit for an ice queen’s palace.  The two fixtures on the left are from John

Salibello in New York.  The top right pendant was created by Venini in the 1960s and the

starburst on the lower right is from the 1930’s and attributed to C.J. Weinstein.  Stunning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For some women, only one kind of “ice” will do.

Left: White gold, diamond and south sea pearl detachable earrings. 

Right: Art Deco bracelet with 30 carats of white and fine diamonds in a platinum setting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unfortunately, I am not one of those women.  But I still can make a statement sans diamonds.

L-Atitude has just the pieces I need to create an ice queen look without the “ice”.

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

And if Huntley & Co. were hired by la reine des glaces, what kind of interior

would I create for her?  It would need to be cool, elegant, regal.  Yet softened

with natural materials and a hint of feminine color.  Crisp, lovely, cultivated. 

Designs clockwise from top left c/o Suzy Hoodless, Huntley & Co. and Uxus.

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

With a variety of texture and finishes in the fabrics and materials.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We would dress her tabletop in cut crystal, sterling silver and sparkling accessories.

Cutlery photo c/o Western Interiors magazine.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And hang works by Rebecca Plotnick, Robin Rose – currently on

exhibit at Hemphill Fine Arts – and Elliott Puckette (respectively).

  

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Maybe the reason I am finding all this so inspiring is because I AM an ice queen.

Disconcerting … yet delightful.

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This ice queen and her Norsk Elghund wish you a fun and frosty winter. 

 

Tricia xo