Modern Day Living
The Mid-Century Modern design style emerged in the mid-20th century, roughly from the 1930s to the 1960s. It is characterized by clean lines, simplicity, and a focus on functionality. This design movement is known for its influence on architecture, interior design, furniture, and industrial design. It continues to be highly popular and influential to this day. [Read more…] about Exploring the History and Influence of the Mid-Century Modern Style
Step into the world of French Furniture as we embark on a decorative arts refresher. Instead of delving into the entirety of French furniture, we’ll focus on just desks. By doing so, we can truly grasp the distinct style differences and the fascinating historical influences that shaped their designs.
Our spotlight will be on three remarkable styles – Regency, Louis XV, and Louis XVI desks, or as the French call them, “bureau plats.” Each of these styles hails from consecutive periods in French decorative history, offering us a unique glimpse into the evolution of artistic expression and design.
Many individuals find it challenging to differentiate between the Louis styles, and as a designer, it’s crucial to avoid this major faux pas. We’ll weave a rich tapestry of stories that unravel the broader context of each decorative style, effectively serving as a comprehensive glossary of decorative arts terms with juicy backstories, intricate decorative elements, and the exquisite creations that epitomize each era. Moreover, we’ll indulge in a bit of gossip about the intriguing players and shenanigans that shaped French history during these times. Believe me, French history is far from dull –
So, join us on this enthralling journey through the ages, as we explore the fascinating world of French Furniture and the stories behind some of its most iconic desks. [Read more…] about French Furniture: Three Desks, Three Styles
“The design world in Paris is dazzling. For centuries France has been considered the pinnacle of refinement in fashion, food, and design. This is in large part because the French have always revered and supported artisans who are the best at what they do, whether they are employing ancient techniques or new technology.” -David Jimenez
One of my favorite design books EVER, Modern English by Emily Todhunter and Katie Earl is a book to revisit often. The talented design duo share a diverse selection of projects that include contemporary townhomes, boutique hotels, restaurants, ski chalets, super yachts, country homes, grand heritage houses, private banks, contemporary new builds, and their own homes. Their projects are numerous and varied- and because discretion is an integral part of their business, quite a few have never been photographed or published. Modern English is divided into three sections: country, town, and abroad.
Todhunter and Earle are known for unpretentious discreet interiors (where budget does not appear to be an issue). Their style exemplifies a hard to quantify Englishness to its very core. I am not referring to what one might consider typical English, with chintzy florals, their bar is waaaay higher. Their laser focus is on [Read more…] about Modern English
Mark McDowell’s case good pieces are sculptural, his choice of materials inspired, and his style always evolving. This award-winning designer is surprisingly modest for his level of talent. He is not one to look back on his breathtaking accomplishments in a self-congratulatory way; his focus is always about eighteen months into the future, onto the next collection. As he designed this latest collection and considered how his pieces will play out in a room, he visualized and then actualized paintings to complement the pieces. Five of his paintings graced the walls of the John-Richard showroom during April High Point market, and those very five paintings sold immediately. Giclee reproductions are available for purchase.
Mark McDowell’s latest collection ushers in a new wave of luxury penthouse style with warm woods, textural finishes, Moroccan patterns and Asian influences (which are a nod to his Japanese heritage). Seduced by the beauty in the details, his innovative style respectfully pushes traditional and contemporary boundaries. His handsome collection appeals to a discerning collector – with form that graces function using metals and sensuous finishes which include antique brass, pebble shagreen, stunning woods. His latest collection for John-Richard includes over 75 floor and table lamps, 50 furniture items, and 15 chandeliers and sconces.
Let’s take a look at some of my favorites: [Read more…] about Artist Spotlight: Mark McDowell
