Mediterranean Alert

For a long, long time American Design has been influenced in great amount by the English, but lately I've been happily enjoying the growing influence of French design and architecture. From a stunning historical Houston, Texas house that has been transformed into a breathtaking French Chateau look-a-like (see the article in House Beautiful "Blue as a Titian." If I hadn't read the article I would've sworn this house was a remodeled chateau in the southern France)-to more sleek interpretations of pied-à-terres in the City. This sophisticated influence distends itself from the more Provencal style with an a-la-Jacques-Grange approach. In this month's Elle Decor issue the house of Interior Designer Paula Caravelli also frames a very French continental influence. Below are a few images that evoke what we all love so much, the immaculate perfect style of everything French.

Above a shot of Designer Paula Caravelli's house (note in March Elle Decor's issue another settee and table are used with no rug)

A very beautiful image of the entrance of Aerin Lauder's apartment in New York, City designed by Jacques Grange. I love how the French have been hanging tapestry on the walls for centuries- a tendency that started more in an effort to preserve them than to showcase them. Here in this modern interpretation the high lacquer parson table does the trick.

Above, in the living room, a very Jacques Grange style uses sculptural furniture pieces in neutral tones.

The paneling in this Manhattan library/dining room could be easily mistaken for a library in a Paris apartment. Designed by Miles Redd.

Oops she did it again

Good Morning to you all. It's been quite a time since the last time I stopped by. Things have turned a little hectic around here and I really needed the time to get more organized. I'll continue to post not as frequently as I used to because my little man is seriously demanding and deserving most of my free time. It takes a Village. Thank you to all of you who continue on visit and send over beautiful emails. When I woke up today and found this email in my mailbox I new today was the day for BelleVivir to start its year. This pictures belong to The Viceroy in Snowmass, Colorado. Sounds familiar? yes it's designed by our style setter Kelly Wearstler -by the way make sure to visit her recently updated website- but this time in collaboration with Jean Michel-Gathy, the founding principal of Malaysian architecture firm Denniston International Architects & Planners. This stunning decor is an outstanding eco-friendly achievement. Can you believe this place is eco-friendly? Yes, all snow sport lovers can now have a gorgeous place to go to in Colorado and feel good about it. This beauty is on the way to become the first LEED-Silver certified hotel in the area. Many green factors were considered in this project from simple basics; for example, all dirt was removed from the construction site saved and reused, construction workers were transported on-site by bus, guests are provided with reusable and washable water bottles and hand towels. But it is the used of organic material in its decor that is admirable. Take a look for yourself.

Merry Christmas

I wish you a very exited and beautiful Christmas. I'm taking a few days off starting from today and will be back next week. Looking forward to continue inspiring those who keep coming back. Until then, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

images from Veranda, design by Mary McDonald

Christmas in the country

images from Vogue Australia.

Mini Christmas trees

Simplicity is sometimes all you need when is combined with imagination. Especially in small spaces.

Images from Country Living.

John Saladino

Villa by John Saladino is definitely on my Christmas list. In this fantastic coffee-table book Saladino showcases the result of a four years restoration project of a 1920's Santa Barbara estate. It also comes with a bonus fifteen-minute DVD tour narrated by Saladino himself. Are those two rooms gorgeous?

American Traditional

Interiors by William Hodgings featured in House Beautiful January 2008 issue.

Happy Thanksgiving!

"Joy, comfort and beauty is what makes a home" I wish you have these three key ingredients at your table tonight.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

image from Laurence Pasquier

the book goes to...

Congratulations to Sarah Klassen from Sarah Klassen/Haute Design. Sarah I'm sure you'll have fun and get a lot of ideas from reading Elaine Griffin's book. Please email me your address so I can forward it to Gotham Books Publishers. They will mail the book to you. Enjoy.

Lovely bathroom

I love the tent looking curtains framing the French doors. I also love the warming effect the wood and fabric bring to this bathroom. P.S. remember the wonderful giveaway here. The winner will be selected tomorrow.

image from Coastal Living.