Diego Rivera's Cubism

Girl with Artichokes [Muchacha con alcachofas], 1913

Currently on display at The Meadows Museum, at SMU, is a wonderfully curated show featuring the cubist works of Diego Rivera. I was particularly drawn to the earliest, transitional pieces. The somber, muted color pallets, and haunting expressions are captivating. Also on display are paintings by some of Rivera's contemporaries, which clearly illustrate the depth and departure of the cubist movement. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself inches away from an obscure cubist landscape by Pablo Picasso. As the story goes, it's the one that ended their long friendship. Well worth a visit.

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Because...Why Wouldn't You?

A little leopard goes a long way....so why not this way??

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Barstool Brings Sexy Back!

Dear Phillipe,

Thank you for this most sexy of barstools! It was love at first sight.. then I sat in it...omg! One arm? Polished aluminum? Are you kidding? I'll never look at another stool again, I promise!

Your's Truly,
Annilee


Kong Barstool by Phillipe Starck
Available at Design Within Reach

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Why not just white?

"Color has the ability to emphasize aspects of art in a way that white cannot."


This is a great article about the use and selection of wall color from the perspective of an art gallery. This technique can translate to any interior. As I begin to design a space, I always start with an inspiration piece. Many times this is art, but can also be fabrics, rugs, or stone.

Read the full article here: STIR Magazine

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Visualizing Vignettes

I love this idea of building vignettes to experiment with selections. Visualizing the design concept can be so difficult, even with the best renderings and sample boards. This technique truly illustrates the final look by showing how each element relates to each other and to the surrounding environment. Bridging that ubiquitous gap between concept and reality will definitely give the client a great sense of trust and confidence in their decisions and their design team.

I would select the traditional red roof for the long term classic value. I prefer the mullions on the 4 lite casement over the single hung window, but I would still use the blue accent color on the mutins, sash and fascia.

Where could we use that gorgeous blue roof...?

Article by Candy Evans of Dallas Dirt.

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Sha-Do

I love how a seemingly simple object can create such a beautifully intricate pattern with light and shadow. Reminiscent of other everyday elements that can transform a space -or an experience- completely.

From German designer Peter Buning.

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Fireplace Beauty

I finally found the perfect thing for my empty hole of a fireplace....Glass Logs! These beauties are cast from 2300 degree molten glass in sand impressions of actual wood, by artist Jeff Benroth. Being glass, they are decorative only, but they reflect and refract and sparkle so fantastically. Each piece is signed and numbered.


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Pittsburgh Project

My residential remodel in Pittsburgh is well underway and looking fantastic!
Here's the "before" and "during" photos.

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I heart Funky Floral

I came across this quirky designer from Los Angeles. Marguerite Inman, working under the title Velvet Spade Designs, creates witty narrative scenes by blending plants with unexpected vintage and new materials. With titles such as "Drinkin Buddies" "Monkey Mist" and "What the Buck" these plant sculptures are instant conversation starters.

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Velvet Spade's Myspace

Unexpected Dining

While working in Pittsburgh, I lunched at Bistro 19, located in the picturesque Mt. Lebanon area. The township, first settled in 1773, is filled with the narrow streets and stone cottages, feeling very old world and charming. The interior design of the restaurant is a fantastic contemporary contrast. Rich mahogany, basalt, slate and oak bring an earthy warmth to the fairly minimalist lines of the space. The front wall is comprised of folding windows that open completely, making the entire space an al fresco experience. Oh, and the food is fabulous...try the Grilled Salmon Salad!

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