A Peek Inside The Historic Dumfries House

Ever wondered where princes and princesses spend their royal weekends? The answer: At their country estates, of course. In the case of Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, his private retreat is the now fully rejuvenated Dumfries House in Scotland. Described as "the most gloriously intact 18th-century house in Scotland" this property possesses the requisite Chippendale furnishings, curated antiquities and gilt-framed art one would expect from a royal hideaway. In fact, the property has at least 50 examples from "a fledgling cabinetmaker" named Thomas Chippendale which were ordered straight from the workshop in 1759 by the fifth Earl of Dumfries.

Even with such a pedigreed past, the once esteemed property was recently at risk of being sold and its rare collector's pieces auctioned off. The Prince himself got wind of the fate of the mansion and intervened. Why? He's a true advocate of British craftsmanship and understands the importance and significance of preserving of integrity of the exquisite collection of art and furnishings on the property.

You'll want to read the full story at Architectural Digest, but suffice it to say His Highness was able to drum up some $90 million to not only restore and preserve the property, but to make it available to "for anyone who cares about great architecture and decoration."

Margaret Russell appeared this morning on the Today show in a rare television interview to discuss the estate. She shares more on the interesting history of the property and its royal rescue. See Margaret's morning appearance here. The next time you're in Ayrshire, Scotland, the Dumfries House ought to rank high on your list of grand locations.After all, if this 18th-century Palladian villa is grand enough for the Prince of Wales it ought to be worthy of a few hours time on your travel itinerary.

The New Blue

At October Market and this week's runway shows we've begun seeing pops of unexpected color entering the scene. But what about taking classic blue and giving it a new spin?

We've been seeing this unstoppable shift happen in tandem with more "out there" trends. A feisty lemon yellow living alongside prized Ming vases and blue toile.

Traditional Home offers up tips on how to handle blue without falling prey to a flat, outdated look. The trick, according to designer Ellie Cullman? Mixing textures and paying special attention to lighting in the space. This maintains a level of warmth in the room and keep it from ever looking like your grandmother's chintz-laden living room.

The February-March issue featured some beautiful elements to inspire. One of them was our 1416 French Bergère in our new exclusive tie-dye stripe fabric. Classic with a twist? Yes. It's the ultimate blend of traditional meets modern. The artisanal quality of the natural fabric keeps the very familiar form of the chair from looking too stuffy.

Looking at Ellie's paint selections and carefully selected design elements, it's clear she's paying homage to the past without being mired in it. We particularly love the graphic "Pow Wow" rug by Capel and the Soicher Marin "Blue Botanical Urn" print. Bold and beautiful.

See more at http://www.traditionalhome.com/">TraditionalHome.com.

Menswear Inspired... But How?

By now the phrase "menswear inspired" elicits as much of an eyebrow raise as more Kardashian news... which is to say, not much. I think that's because most people don't stop to understand what the phrase really means in terms of fabrics and furnishings.

NJ.com recently wrote a post showcasing our Federal style sofa upholstered in an exclusive Prince of Wales glen plaid. It seemed a great opportunity to highlight some of the aspects of the sofa that parallel elements appearing in men's apparel.

Let's take a look at the silhouette to start. It's a slim shame, much like a tailored blazer. There is no excessive volume. Rather than appearing staid and flat, it gives the sofa (and the blazer) a classic, iconic form that will never go out of style. Pair that with a woolen glen plaid fabric with an impossibly soft hand and you've just created a piece that will stand the test of time in your home (and your wardrobe).

Now let's pay special note to the finish. The lighter color highlights the carved details on the frame. Much like a light leather chosen for this caramel cap toe oxford, the lighter shade means we are able to better appreciate the workmanship and the structural elements that make both the sofa frame and the shoe unique.

And now the details. What I like about this sofa (and the watch above) are the smaller design elements that make it stylish and eternal. Bench seating, soft contrasting welt, loose back pillows and plump toss pillows... these lend it flair and panache without veering into "of the moment" qualities. There's nothing flashy about it, but it won't go unnoticed in a room. Somehow all of these understated qualities bind together to create a striking finished look.

In the end, today's reference to menswear doesn't necessarily indicate that a piece has an overtly masculine quality. Just look at around and you'll see women of all ages wearing oversized watches, gorgeous plaids and enough classic blazers to fill a Burberry showroom. It's not about being gender-neutral so much as it is about appealing to both sexes. And in the world of interior design, achieving that balance is the ultimate goal of every nearly project.

So the next time you hear the now overused phrase "menswear inspired" take a moment to soak in the details to see what they mean. Is it well tailored? Are there prominent buttons? Is it a fabric choice that makes it read "masculine" or is it the frame itself. The phrase isn't likely to disappear anytime soon, as there's clearly a market for handsome good looks and fine tailoring.

See the rest of the NJ.com article here to hear what other tastemakers had to say on the topic.

Featured: Ralph Lauren Black Label Anthony Blazer, Billy Reid Oxfords, 300 Series Chronograph Watch

The Pinking of Pinterest

I don't think there's any doubt that today's designers and creatives are using technology to their advantage. How better to create a moodboard on the fly and share those ideas with the masses, or keep it to yourself until your big reveal. It's easy, clean, keeps track of sourcing for you and can either be kept forever or disposed of at a moment's notice. After all, pixels are free and it's our choice what we wish to do with them.

While there are myriad tools at our disposal, the critical mass has been established at Pinterest making it one-stop-shopping for those in search of the pretty and the fabulous.

One of our favorite design firms, Woodson & Rummerfield, used Pinterest to create a Lucy Doheny idea book. In the melange that is jaguar meets pink meets Lucite, we think they captured the mood and the mystery of this infamous woman beautifully. No doubt this was a powerful resource as Jaime and Ron crafted and perfected their vision for Maison de Luxe.

Dare to discover more here...

Franki's Fab Finds: OKL Sale

Many goodies have sold out but there are still many great pieces available in the Pearson One Kings Lane sale. Here are just a few of my favorites, but there are many more items still available. Shop now... there are not multiples of these beauties. Once an item is sold it's gone for good.

You'll find a wide range of pieces that were newly created for fall market this past October. Ikat pillows, custom upholstered pieces, beautiful casegoods, etc. Hard to believe these creations (designed specifically to attract magazine editors, designers and buyers) are being sold at such incredible prices. And yet, space must be made to make room for new pieces for April Market. Ahh, the benefits of time marching on. Happy shopping, designer friends!

Pearson One Kings Lane Sale Tomorrow!

Listen up, designers and design enthusiasts... Pearson is clearing off the showroom floor from October Market to make room for fresh, new inventory. This means you get brand new "of the moment" style at steeply discounted pricing.

These are not items they've had sitting around for ages... these are custom pieces designed to showcase the newest fabrics and silhouettes introduced just months ago. See the pics above? These are all items from tomorrow's sale. Ikat pillows in a brand new fabric. A Bergere in a dreamy new tie-dyed fabric. It's hard to believe these are already being sold off at bargain discounts... but such is the nature of the furniture biz... you have to stay current. So whether you're shopping for clients or just want to dress up your own home, this is an incredible opportunity to obtain investment quality furnishings at entry-level pricing.

Sale begins tomorrow at 11am EST. Sign up now and add it to your calendar. If past sales are any indication, items will not last long!

Okay... now for MORE news. Remember those incredible pieces Jennifer designed for the Napa Valley Film Festival? That's right... the curved white sofa covered in Sunbrella fabric, all of those incredible pillows and the beautiful occasional pieces? (Here's the post to refresh your memory.) Well in just a few short weeks those pieces could be yours. On February 6th we will have yet another One King's Lane Sale giving you the opportunity to purchase the pieces inspired by the movie Pillow Talk. Save the date... and save some room in your home (or those of your clients) for these beautiful pieces.

Ta ta for now... and happy shopping!

As Seen In: Arch Digest's Most Wanted Discoveries

While it's nice to be noticed, it's even better to be in the good company of some of our favorite sources of creativity. Architectural Digest selected our 575 perching bench (shown upholstered in our exclusive kelly green and midnight ikat #4593-36 fabric woven in Turkey) and placed it alongside new textiles from Suzanne Kasler, an otherworldly resin light fixture from Oly, a Braoque-inspired table from Baker and a fabulous framed etching from artist Kiki Smith. These "most wanted discoveries" from their February 2012 issue all offer something special to a project - namely a "where on earth did you find that?" response from everyone who sees them. And isn't that part of the thrill of great interior design?
Dying to know more about this fabric? The viscose and polyester blend fabric is exclusive to Pearson and comes in two distinct colorways. One is a zingy combo of midnight and kelly green - a marvelous combination that will garner second looks and pressured inquiries. And then for those projects where only something completely bold and unexpected will do... we present a brilliant pink and charcoal combination sure to knock their preppy socks off. Both ikat fabrics are woven in Turkey exclusively for Pearson. Both are sure to please!

It's Time to Tango

It's the first "real" Monday of 2012. No bank holiday. No extended holiday weekend. No more excuses. With that comes the recognition that it's time to focus on the bigger picture for the year and start assessing the style landscape for the coming months.

Unless you've been asleep since Thanksgiving (and if you have, by all means congratulate yourself for unplugging for a while!) you're aware that Pantone has declared ravishing Tangerine Tango the "Color of the Year" for the coming 12 months.

Like every design professional, I hold Pantone in high regard. So it was with great surprise that I discovered that the annual selection of the favored hue comes not in response to emerging trends and the uprising of cultural design movements... but almost in contrast to them. Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, heads the committee that chooses Pantone’s color of the year. While I had always assumed that the governing powers that be identified an undercurrent of movement towards a single hue, Leatrice reveals that her team chooses a color that they feel society needs as either a contrast to the mood or an assisting force.

2012's feisty orange, for example, "continues to provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward." She continues by saying "Although orange is not pink, we felt the necessity to stay with that feeling that encourages us to face everyday troubles with some vigor. We know there is a big gray elephant in the room. We can’t ignore it."

Fortunately, I love bold colors like orange as well as last year's much beloved Honeysuckle. And, used in moderation, this zesty color can serve to spice up a room, an outfit, a mood and - if Leatrice's theory holds true - a society as well.

Featured: Tory Burch Slim Jean in Volcano, Bliss Studio Morocco Collection Poiret Pillow, Hermès Pierres d'Orient et d'Occident hand-rolled silk scarf, J. Crew Tippi Sweater in Vibrant Flame

Link Lovin'

Today's nod to our fashion-forward edge comes from TrendCurve publication. While they feature photos of our fantastic chain link center table, the article itself focuses much more on our celebration of shagreen as a fabulous tabletop surface.

"Shagreen took a giant leap forward. More prevalent at the high end than ever before, this material signaled its potential to become a mainstream part of upstairs collections." The piece then went on to mention "Pearson's new tables outlined in off-white starburst-pierced shagreen with antique brass" as shown above. (Can I just say, we love these new tables - and so do our design clients!)

Also in the article was appreciation for the center table we remarked upon earlier this month. "Pearson combined travertine and bronze in a stunning new table with classic charm. In all style categories, bronze finishes are poised for dramtic growth into 2013."

Key points to take with you to your next appointment: bronze is big and will be for some time. Shagreen is the new upmarket tabletop trend. Me? I've got my eyes on this lovely piece, which I'll share more about next week. Until then... have a great weekend!

Life Imitating Art

In this stunning Neoclassical San Francisco apartment, decorator Suzanne Tucker and architect Andrew Skurman pull the color palette from a painting by Nathan Oliveira and the antique Oushak carpet from Mansour.

Upon moving into their dream building overlooking the bay, the couple engaged the best of the best to turn their fantasy space into an incredible retreat. Frankly, the only thing in the home that upstages that view of the Bay is the view within the master closet. Between the glistening Ironies light fixture and the decadent chaise longue in Christopher Hyland silk velvet, I could spend hour upon hour in this space.

Another element I love in a home is the feeling of anticipation. Their foyer certainly delivers on the thrill of potential. Step inside this black and white Belgian marble tiled space and pause momentarily to gaze at the promise of San Fran's most breathtaking view. As you begin to snap back to your immediate surroundings you'll again be taken aback by the perfect pairing of George III mirrors and demilune tables. I just think this space is spectacular!

And since I love to cook, their Viking-laden kitchen (with what I'm sure is another incredible vantage point via the window) looks like a terrific place to entertain and fancy yourself the next great culinary artist.

While there's no denying that the home leans traditional, I think it's quite fitting since it's housed within a renowned Beaux Arts building in this fantastic city. Could they have outfitted it in modern furnishings? Yes. But given the rare opportunity to work with such incredible architectural bones and historic spaces, I'm thrilled that the homeowners and designer/architect pairing worked to pay homage to the original style of the space. The result is sensational!

See the full story on AD.com

Center Stage

One of the most tweeted and talked about pieces at High Point Market (October '12) was the new 9673 center table. Between its chain link legs and travertine top, designers and buyers alike were smitten by her elegant good looks. Those retro-styled bronze finish legs are only complimented by the 1" thick travertine top that rests upon the base.

At 48" diameter and 30" high (including the top) this beauty offers shocking versatility. Is she an entry table in a gracious foyer? A glamorous dining table in a posh high rise? The possibilities are as endless as her geometric beauty.

For the more adventurous among you, the base can be ordered separately (she is a nimble 41" w x 41" d x 29" h) and can be topped in any fashion you choose. Reclaimed wood? Vintage aged mirror with one-of-a-kind appeal? What about a dramatically beveled glass top to really play up the unique patterns formed by those Iron and cast aluminum square tube legs?

We can't wait to see how you talented designers choose to personalize this piece. In my home I'd certainly opt for creamy, dreamy travertine (partly because we don't often see this material used in this fashion)... but I just know there will be some incredible custom pieces created from this base in the coming months. Be sure to share them so we can showcase your marvelous talents!

The Delectable Sectional

For years I eschewed the idea of a sectional. It seemed "undone" at best and limiting at worst. That is until I moved and my new living area presented the ideal opportunity to finally cave in to my secret love of them. Done right, a sectional doesn't actually have to be casual and decidedly informal. Truth be told, mine is pretty swanky. Tufted seating, shimmery icy-blue velvet, tuxedo arms. There's nothing about this baby that is causal.

Lauren from Material Girls has a nice post that addresses the changing nature of this once sloppy choice. The ghost of sectionals past always comes in to haunt a project when clients (or designers) hear the word sectional. Fortunately, today's designs are often tailored, sleek and refined.

Yes, there are still relaxed family friendly options available. But Pearson and a handful of other brands have firmly entrenched the accommodating sectional in the category of chic seating options.

One choice is the 2398 frame. Sleek tailored arms, angled feet and crisply defined loose cushions make this a solid choice for a variety of projects. I've seen this customized in a variety of ways and it always comes off looking stylish and crisp. Two words not often associated with this type of sofa.

For those who prefer a more bold design, the 2378 has optional tufted bench seating, tuxedo arms and a dramatic exposed frame. While both can be configured any way you can imagine, the 2378 now comes with the option of chaise or even a coordinating daybed. This is far and away my favorite (I actually have this piece) and I love the ample seating it affords when entertaining and its handsome good looks when not a soul is in the room.

Whichever frame you choose, know that it can be customized any way you wish. Endless fabric options, custom finishes, optional trim and myriad seating configurations. Still don't see what you want? Just ask - they'll build it to your exact specifications.

Rest assured, "sectional" no longer means informal seating that reads bachelor casual or family den. Today's frames are posh enough to be positioned prominently in swanky hotel lobbies and the most stylish of homes. Is your living room next?

Borrowed and Blue

Take a classic, add a hand printed imported fabric and voila! Watch the admirers gather to witness the new movement in design.

Such was the case when we unveiled two remarkable new fabrics at market. The first is a fresh spin on a decidedly classic look. Boasting the feel of architectural renderings, this rosette laden fabric offers amazing detail. The ground cloth has a weathered old world look that only adds to its unique charm. It is woven and and printed in Spain and is exclusive to Pearson. (This unique fabric is also available in Bark.)

We love it on the new 1406 chair with Louis XVI styling. Somehow old meets old becomes old meets new with this marvelous blue textile.

Next, we threw caution to the wind and introduced an Italian crafted tie-dyed effect striped fabric. Although printed in state of the art mills, this stripe lends any project an artisan, handmade appeal. The linen and cotton ground ground the print in sophistication, taking humble tie-dye to a elegant new level. Woven and printed in Italy exclusively for Pearson.

Seen on our classic Bergere chair, this new textile caused quite the stir at October Market. We think it has lasting impact as we head into 2012 with a fresh new attitude.

What is noteworthy here is the balance of classical forms paired with bold new design. We are thrilled to exclusively offer these two incredible textiles and look forward to introducing you to more unique prints such as these. The possibilities for application are endless. More importantly, the design world (and the marvelous clients who encourage growth) are ready for something old and something new. We think it's a style marriage made in heaven.

Featured: 1406 dining chair in 8071-54 fabric, 1416 Chair upholstered in 8074-54.

Pearson's New Introductions Online

Those of you who attended Market will be excited to know that Pearson's new introductions showcased in the showroom at High Point Market in October are all online as of today. Browse the gorgeous pieces in one convenient location. Enjoy!

Dreaming of fabrics instead of frames? Those are online now too! See them all here in one grouping.

Elle Decor's Top Rooms of 2011

I love roundups like the one Elle Decor just put together. 30 of today's top design insiders chimed in to produce a list of the year's prettiest and most posh residential rooms. One of my favorite projects was included: a colorful and creative Fifth Avenue apartment as designed by Timothy Haynes and Kevin Roberts.

Like most successful endeavors, the result was brilliant due to two critical factors: the design prowess of the interior designers and the fearlessness, patience and sky's the limit attitude of the homeowners. When one part of that equation has their foot on the brake, miracles are more challenging. But when the client and the design team have a shared vision and a willingness to "go for it" - miracles can and do happen.

Another favorite space from the article is the Jean-Louis Deniot-designed living room inside a Parisian Left Bank pied-à-terre. See all of these incredible - and daring - residential wonder in the full ElleDecor.com article.

Photo via Elle Decor by William Waldron

As Seen In: Luxe Interiors + Design Winter Issue 2012

Doheny does it again! The gorgeous master bedroom of Mrs. Doheny at the Greystone Showhouse is featured on the cover of the national issue of Luxe Magazine for Winter 2012. The vignette above is a portion of this beautiful room designed by LA darlings Ron Woodson and Jaime Rummerfield.

Congrats to this talented creative duo for this terrific coverage. The entire room is a marvel of color and design prowess. It's always nice to see such deserving designers receive such acclaim for their originality. They certainly took risks, but it was certainly worth it. You don't create drama and impact with safe choices. It's clear this room is a space that will be celebrated for quite some time.

Each piece of occasional and upholstered furniture shown above (as well as the fabrics) is from Pearson. For more on this beautiful space, take a peek at this post or this one as well as this Editor at large video which features the designers sharing their inspiration and concept.

When you score your issue of the magazine you'll also spy plenty of Pearson within the glossy pages. Three additional images of the showhouse feature Pearson furniture used for the Maison de Luxe event.

Additionally, our handblocked linen script print (a marvel of artistry from India) is featured in a separate article about the continuing trend of type motifs. (This pretty textile is also featured on the index page of the magazine.) This particular fabric is very special due to how it is crafted. Due table size limitations, it can only come in 20 yard pieces. All print is hand applied in neutral tones (making it incredibly versatile) to this 100% linen fabric. Look closely and you'll notice phrases, signatures and dates written in both English and French. It's beautiful to see online, but even more lovely when seen in person. We're thrilled they chose to feature it in this issue.

Maison de Luxe: Star of the Show

It seems that green designer Lori Dennis was having more fun that anyone at Maison de Luxe. As she entertained visitors to her space she was also filming for her upcoming HGTV show, The Real Designing Women. All eyes were on Lori and the incredible room she transformed for Maison de Luxe/

While another talent might have been put off by the task of outfitting such a small area, Lori embraced the challenge. In fact, she celebrated the diminutive footprint rather than fighting it. One wall was covered in a series of what appeared to be Moroccan mirrors. How incredible are they? Mirrors (specially when used in multiples) are stunning way to enlarge the space. Here Lori's choice in style added not just light and space to the room, it conjured up images of faraway lands.

Center stage in the room was our Star of India ottoman (swoon!) in the most fetching fabric choices imaginable. Look at those gilded sides and shimmering tassel trim. This piece, when done well as shown here, is a showstopper. Gorgeous. I love how the pattern and shape plays off the geometry of the rug design. Rather than stop there, Lori reflected the unique star shape with a metallic tray filled with shimmering rocks. Just look at that drama!

Also seen in the space was our 9654 table, a round accent table with Greek key stylized feet. The room's proportions made it very hard to take photos of the custom bed, but it is best described as being "like a womb, completely gold leafed on the outside, upholstered in royal blue velvet on the inside, with built in speakers." Talk about drama.

As if all of this wasn't enough, Lori had the most amazing mural painted on the ceiling. It just goes to show, square footage need not stand in the way of powerful design. Impact can be achieved in any amount of space when placed in talented hands like Lori's.

Be sure to see more of this space in the Editor at large video filmed during the event.

Rheinstein's Romantic Touch

Hollyhock owner and internationally acclaimed designer Suzanne Rheinstein used color and clean details to transform a guest suite into a romantic retreat. Her design mantra is simple: that the need to live well each day far exceeds the importance of dressing up your home for special events. As a result, her projects always embody a certain elegance and ease that only fine living can deliver.

In the case of her space at Maison de Luxe, the very simply styled bedroom beds visitors to unwind and curl up with a glass of wine for a long conversation. Her mix of spring green and soft lavender play well off one another. I'm particularly smitten by the lavender velvet bench at the center of the room. And do you see the tassels? They are certainly back in a big way. Sneaking in every chance they get.

All furnishings came from either Pearson, Lee Jofa or Suzanne's own Hollyhock. The settee seen here is the classic 2874, a designer favorite from Pearson's upholstery collection seen here in Lee Jofa fabric. I love the addition of the plump extra pillows on this already intimate piece. It looks perfect for a cozy tête-à-tête!

More on Maison: Mrs. Doheny's Boudoir

Jennifer McConnell, Pearson's VP of design, just returned from Greystone Mansion. She offers up an array of amazing photos from the star-studded event and just as many colorful stories to share. The usual suspects were on hand: Mary McDonald, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Jamie Drake and the other big name designers responsible for the amazing spaces created within the property at Maison de Luxe. The well publicized event drew massive crowds, enough to fill the home and the grand outdoor patio.

We'll begin our tour with the Woodson & Rummersfield gem: Mrs. Doheny's Bedroom. We've shown photos in other posts, but this time Jennifer was able to see it up close and in person. The custom Pearson pieces designed by Jaime & Ron were just gorgeous. In fact there are so many elements in the room that it made the most sense to number them and offer a bit more detail on each one.

A bit of background... all of the furniture in the bedroom was Pearson with the exception of the bed and the nightstands. Pearson fabric was used on most of the pillows in the space. Even the window valances were made out of Pearson trellis chenille fabric.

Let's start at the top of the images above and I'll share a bit of info on each frame.

1. Featured on the bed pillows, Greek key stripe and our festive trellis print with butterflies. What must be mentioned here is the custom mural that Ron and Jaime had painted behind the bed. Isn't that fantastic?
   
   The bed and nightstands themselves are as opulent as one might hope them to be. Lucite and silver combined with tufted ivory leather. I die! The added glamour of the commissioned peacock-centric mural only serves to heighten the posh vibe of the bedroom.
2. On the window valance, the gorgeous 6477-74 chenille fabric adds depth and a luxe treatment to the windows
3. Our glamorous French 1366 Chair with front covered in the stunning pagoda fabric and backed in the rich red print with Greek key stripe detail. The true beauty of the pieces is the silvery vermeil finish.
4. In front of the window sheers, the Greek key console with antique mirror top and lower shelf (one of my favorite pieces!) keeps the glamour of the room going while offering a chic display surface for design books and objects that appeared to be carefully curated objets of the Mrs.
   
   This photo also gives you a better look at those pretty bed pillows. Sadly the butterfly trellis fabric backing the Greek key stripe pillows is discontinued. Ron & Jaime were able to use the very last of it for this incredible project.
5. The Pearson Chow sofa is a fan favorite. Here it shimmers in rich red velvet with contrast piping. We love the extra peppering of the butterfly trellis pattern on the pillows (as seen on boudoir pillows on the bed) to tie the two areas of the room together.
6. Keeping the theme going, our shagreen topped bunching tables with Greek Key detail on the base flank the sofa.
7. The glamorous look of this seating vignette is completed with the ivory cocktail table covered in faux shagreen leather squares. The Parsons styling of this piece is perfect for the mood of the room.
8. The lovely 187 bench at the foot of the bed, finished in that fabulous silver vermeil finish. Jaime and Ron had it upholstered in COM faux exotic skin. The Hollywood glamour results speak for themselves!

For more on Maison de Luxe and the master suites, watch the video from Editor at Large which features the always enjoyable Martyn Lawrence Bullard (designer of Mr. Doheny's Bedroom) as well as Ron Woodson & Jaime Rummerfield.

The New AD 100

For as long as I can remember I've been in awe of the annual issue containing the AD 100. The idea of being identified as one of the industry's top forces in interior design - and having it printed in glossy ink - is every designer's dream. The only real difference these days is that my "issue" arrives electronically long before the glossy pages hit my desk. Isn't technology grand?

This year's list did not disappoint. While I love seeing perennial favorites (Bunny Williams, Miles Redd, John Saladino, Alberto Pinto, Jamie Drake) it's always special to see new or at least notable names appear.

Some of my favorites are also some of the most obvious if you've read me for a while: Suzanne Kasler, Kelly Wearstler, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Axel Vervoordt, Campion Platt, Thomas O'Brien's Aero Studio. One thing is certain, glamour is celebrated at Architectural Digest. Small firm or large, the winning look across the board was sweet sophistication. See the rest of the list at AD.