Friday, September 27, 2013

NANTUCKET: COLOR, TEXTURE, PATTERN

During college, I studied abroad in Italy; at this time I discovered that some of my most inspirational photographs were of a specific detail or texture.  An overall photo of a structure is a great memory and reference, but most do not credit the smallest details.  When I was on Nantucket, I tried to take overall photos, as well as detail shots showing texture, pattern, and color. These are great inspiration for projects and color schemes.  Here are a few of my favorites. 

















Images by AGA

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

NANTUCKET: IN THE FALL




As many of you know, I love the seaside. The constantly evolving color of the ocean and sky, mixed with salty air and the rustle of sea grass, is one of the most calming and inspirational atmospheres.  I am someone who is happy on the beach, rain or shine.  This time of year, few think of travelling to the Cape and Islands, but those who do discover a hidden secret. 

Many families plan their seaside trips for the summertime; leading to crowded beaches, gridlock traffic, and impossible dinner reservations.  After Labor Day, school begins and vacationers return home.  Soccer games, fall activities, and homework become the focus. On the Cape and Islands, numerous activities continue, including; farmer’s markets, live music, museums, and walking tours. These happenings combined with late summer weather, provide the perfect setting for visitors.
 
Last weekend I had a chance to visit Nantucket.  Growing up, I only visited the island a few times.  My vivid memory of over-crowded streets and beaches, is like many other seaside towns during the summertime.  This trip was very different.  There was a sense of relief and relaxation.  The weather was absolutely spectacular, so good in fact; that we even made it to the beach, for a quick swim in the surf.  Restaurants were busy, but not to the point that you couldn’t get a table.  There were farmer’s markets and plenty of sales at the local shops.   Museums and walking tours eagerly shared the history of Nantucket. At night, it was warm enough to sit outside at the wharf side bar, Cru, and enjoy oysters on the half shell.  Bars, such as the Club Car, were busy with people and live music.  And it only rained on Sunday morning, but there was still plenty to see and do. 

We were only on the island for the weekend, but I could have easily stayed longer.  There is always something new and exciting going on.  Next week is restaurant week, in which selected restaurants offer special three-course menus and pricing. If you are looking for a quick getaway or inspiration, the Cape and Islands is the place to go.  Inns and hotels offer exceptional packages for their guests and there are plenty of activities.  Check out the Nantucket Chamber of Commerce website for more upcoming events.  www.nantucketchamber.org

Below are photos of my weekend search for inspiration, on Nantucket.






Images of sites by AGAImages of AGA by Eric Clark 

Friday, September 20, 2013

ZEBRA: THE HUNT

One of my favorite zebra print applications, is the Scalamandre zebra wallpaper.  This iconic pattern made it's debut during the late 1930's, at Gino's Restaurant in New York City.  Flora Scalamandre designed the wallpaper to depict zebras during a hunt, hence the flying arrows. The original pattern featured classic black and white zebras with a bright red background, later other colorways were created.  


One of my favorite uses of this wallpaper is in Margo Tenenbaum's room in the film The Royal Tenenbaum's.






  


























Images via The Royal Tenenbaum's
Information and Scalamandre image via http://passmenteries.com


Thursday, September 19, 2013

ZEBRA: AT HOME


Zebra print can add a graphic punch or an exotic element to any room.  Here are a few examples of zebra print in traditional, transitional, and modern rooms.




Image via Elle Decor

Image via Pinterest 

Image via Traditional Home

Image via House Beautiful 


Image via Cote de Texas blog 


 Image source unknown 

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

ZEBRA: ALL ABOUT THE STRIPES

How the zebra got it's stripes: 
“In the early days when the earth was young, the land was hot and dry.  In this new world, water could only be found in a few small holes scattered around the desert.
At one such waterhole, a baboon stood guard.  The baboon proclaimed that he was the owner of this waterhole and no one could drink there.  He said that this water is mine alone.  The baboon would always chase anyone who came by to drink. 
The baboon had built a fire close to the pool so that he could protect it during the very cold desert nights.
One day a zebra came by to quench his thirst after a very long and tiring journey.  In these early days, the zebra had no stripes.  He wore a dazzling coat of pure white fur.
The baboon jumped up in anger when the zebra approached.  "Who are you?  Go away!.  I am the lord of this water!.  It is mine."  The zebra was in no mood to listen to this selfish baboon.  "This is not your water, you ugly monkey, it belongs to everyone" shouted the zebra. 
The baboon was furious and said that if the zebra wanted the water, he must fight for it.  The baboon and the zebra were soon engaged in a fierce struggle.  Locked in combat, they rolled around back and forth around the waterhole.  Finally, the zebra gave one mighty kick and the baboon was sent flying high up into the rocks behind the waterhole. 
The zebra had kicked the baboon so hard that he lost his balance and fell into the baboon's fire.  The zebra sent burning sticks flying into the air when he tried to escape the fire.  These charred sticks left black scorch marks all over the zebra's fine white coat. 
Hurt and frightened, the zebra galloped to the plains where he has remained ever since.  Eventually, the zebra came to like his new apparel which made him stand out among the other animals. 
The baboon in the meantime, had landed on his rear-end with a mighty thud against the hard rocks.  The baboon has remained in the koppies ever since, nursing his bald red bottom, still as angry as ever.” www.felid.org

For centuries, the stripes on a zebra have established it as one of the most unique and distinguishable creatures on this planet.  Zebra print has been applied to everything from handbags, coats, and shoes, and even my childhood favorite "Fruit Stripe" gum.  Often times receiving a bad rep, for its tacky pairing with blinding neon colors and spandex, this exotic pattern can be tastefully added to an outfit or your home. 

Here is a bit of zebra from my closet.




















First image via http://wallpaper.com

Friday, September 13, 2013

FALL COLORS: SHERWIN WILLIAMS

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of meeting with our Sherwin Williams representative.  One of the main topics during this presentation was the Fall 2013 colors for interiors and exteriors.  Here is a quick look at the color forecast featured in Sherwin Williams Special 2013 Issue of Stir.  
































Thursday, September 12, 2013

FALL COLORS: MYKONOS BLUE

I love the color blue, and for this reason I was very excited to see an extended popularity in Mykonos Blue. This color made an appearance this summer and will continue to show up throughout fall and early winter.  Here are a few of my favorite Mykonos Blue gowns from the Fall 2013 fashion shows.  


Elie Saab image via zaidor.com
Valentino image via Harper's Bazaar


Ellie Saab images via zaiddor.com

Oscar de la Renta image via Harper's Bazaar      
Ellie Saab image via Harper's Bazaar

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

FALL COLORS: TURNING TO GOLD

I always look forward to my walk to work, and the constantly evolving window displays, that embellish Boston's streets.  Currently, there is a showcase of a tailored marigold jacket, with black pants, and a leopard scarf. I know this display will soon inspire a fall outfit of mine.  Here is some golden inspiration from the Fall 2013 fashion shows.


 Bottega Veneta images via Harper's Bazaar


Hermes image via Harper's Bazaar