I am obsessed with quality in furnishings, as one can imagine I have over the years, used better and better quality furnishings because I don’t like to get those phones calls from clients, telling me that the construction of a piece has fallen apart or weakened… bearing that in mind you would think that I would have explored Henredon that much sooner but, the “my mother” part has held me back.  Which of course brings me to the opposite end of the spectrum; my son.  Sometimes I get so upset and frustrated when my 8 year old son doesn’t listen to some piece of information that I give him, I mean I really do KNOW what I am talking about, don’t I?  hmmmmm…. that sounds like….. Maybe my mother knew what she was talking about???

Henredon sponsored me to come to Highpoint Market this Spring, and so I was given a tour of their showroom and I realized something: Quality is never out of style – I saw so many chic, and beautiful pieces that I had to take a good hard look at my previous prejudice and realize that my mother revered Henredon with good reason and that I was wrong (yes mom, I know you are reading this right now and recording it for all of posterity… sigh) and my mom… was rr..rr..rriiight (double sigh).

Here are a few pieces that I thought were very stylish, and timeless:

A beautiful masculine bed and bench

Timeless and elegant Chaise Brisee

Not only is Henredon fashionable, they are right on the money with the new Celerie Kemble line.  I usually see another designers furniture line and whilst I can admire their designs there are often little details that I would add or change.  With Celerie’s line the details were all perfect according to the book of Michelle:

A dining chair I am going to spec for an SF client

A sconce that I MUST have for myself!

an MCM styled bar

Celerie’s line does what I do, it mixes all the beautiful styles and periods to create a look that is timeless, curated and storied… I love it!

All in all there were so many beautiful things that I can absolutely say that I am my mothers daughter and will now refer to Henredon with that same breathless quality to my voice.

Each of these books feature my favorite fabrics, and wall coverings from all the prominent fabric houses, as well as my favorite paint colors from Benjamin Moore.  It is a great resource and each fabric is linked to the website, so designers will be able to use it on the go!  If you aren’t a designer it will be a great source of inspiration for your home.  It also includes quotes from many of todays top designers as well as historical quotes from artists regarding color.

The first in a series, my eBook on PINK!

I hope that you will shop the sale at Joss and Main and even buy my book – I hope that it will inspire you to live a more colorful life!

Detail; the edge of a table - Photo courtesy of Greg Zabilski

Now I am ALWAYS a bit skeptical when people tell me about some new line of furniture that they are just CERTAIN I will adore, but Jack knows my taste and so I was slightly interested when he asked if I would like to see a few photos on his phone.  I saw the photos and about had a breakdown.  I was looking at something I couldn’t even articulate… (it was a pair of side tables).  I had to meet the man responsible for such beauty.

Several weeks passed and I finally was able to schedule in a visit to meet Damian and see his furniture in person.  As I drove into the barrio of downtown I began to have second thoughts, what if the pieces weren’t as spectacular as I remembered?  What if the photos being blurry and looking at them in the semi dark made the tables look better than in real life – what would I say when I really found the pieces inside to be … well, MEDIOCRE? I started in to the shop, dreading my disappointment.

I was in for a surprise….

Damian Jones, a charming and affable man, started the tour of his workshop very quickly, and just as quickly, I fell in deep deep lust with his supremely beautiful pieces.  To call them furniture is to degrade the attention to detail and the craftsmanship, to say nothing of the creative design.

The charming Mr. Jones

To say that I “want” his furniture is really a misnomer – I COVET his work.

A Coffee Table - Photo courtesy of Greg Zabilski

A detail of the Coffee Table - Photo courtesy of Greg Zabilski

This coffee table is just a brief moment in the overwhelm of beauty that I experienced – everywhere I looked were pieces (even incomplete) that were simply put… ART.

Brass inlay mirrors the grain of the wood in this cabinet

My photos do not do Damian’s work any justice (which is why the amazing and talented Greg Zabilski loaned me a few of his fabulous shots – thanks Greg!)

Side Table - Photo Courtesy of Greg Zabilski

Damian’s attention to detail is startling – he hand engraves the beautiful designs you see in the close-ups of the brass, he is meticulous, not allowing anything to pass that is less than excellence.

Another Coffee Table - Photo courtesy of Greg Zabilski

A side table or a lamp base... you decide - Photo courtesy of Greg Zabilski

Damian does not have a website, he is neither on Facebook, nor on twitter, but that may all change soon, and my suggestion to you is to get to him before he blows up – because right now he is one of LA’s best kept secrets.

You can reach Damian via email: Jonesyboy21@mac.com

PS: if you need a great furniture or interiors photographer you can contact Greg through his website: www.zabilskiphotograpy.com

A very special thank you to Jack Inman for the introduction to a true Artisan!

Arrival in Murano

On my first day there I walked around and saw some of the great and well known glass houses like Venini and Barovier and Toso.

Venini

Barovier and Toso

What I didn’t see was one of my favorites… Barbini. I spoke to the owner of the hotel we were staying in and he said that sadly Barbini had closed several years ago with the death of Alfredo Barbini. However, he was happy to tell me that he knew the daughter of Barbini and was happy to set up a tour of the now closed showroom.

Inside I was squealing with delight while outside I calmly thanked him for his help. He made the necessary calls and then directed me to the house of Barbini.

Barbini buzzer

When I arrived I was greeted by Oceania, Alfredo’s daughter, she is a stately woman with red hair, probably in her sixties. She was kind and gracious, and I was so nervous that I might say or do the wrong thing and cut my tour short… I mean, what I really wanted was to see the closed factory… what treasures there must be in there! I didn’t want to overstep my welcome so I carefully kept my mouth shut while she led me to the showroom.

me... super excited for my private tour!

I asked Oceania if I could purchase any of the items I saw and she explained that they really weren’t in business anymore but since I had come highly recommended from our hotelier (I must have charmed the heck out of him!) I would be able to purchase a few items.

Samples in the showroom

I thanked her and quickly made a small pile – I then carefully asked if there was a possibility of seeing the factory? She said that unfortunately that would not be possible today – but perhaps I could return tomorrow? Of COURSE I could return tomorrow (completely rearranging our travel plans in that moment) I replied enthusiastically!

The next morning I returned and met Flavio Barbini – Oceania’s brother and a gifted glassblower in his own right.  Flavio was to escort us into the now defunct factory.  We took a long and winding path behind the palazzo, and showroom and ended up in the factory which looked as if all work had stopped midstream the day Barbini passed – it was like a movie.  Everywhere I looked I saw beautiful things covered in dust…

Beautiful pieces lying together on a cart

I was astounded. Please understand that I am the type of girl who is always looking for buried treasure, things forgotten, lost items needing love and attention and here… here, was an entire factory of treasures, just asking to be loved and admired. Honestly, it was an exceedingly profound moment for me.

Flavio told me that he had found some lamp bases for me and perhaps I would like to see them (I had told Oceania the previous day that I loved the Barbini lamps from the 1950′s and 60′s)? I was obviously enthusiastic in my response… YES! He took me to an old crate and began to open it, he told me that it was from 1955

Covered in dust

treasure revealed!

I think I started hyperventilating at this point, I mean there must have been 20 lamp bases in this crate! I timidly asked if I would be able to purchase them and was answered in the affirmative. I set about choosing as many as I could justify, in the end I ended up with 8 boxes of items. They are currently in customs and I am supposed to receive them tomorrow… I am GIDDY with excitement!

A few of the pieces I purchased

All in all this was a most wonderful experience and I have to say it was made all the better because of the lovely, gracious and charming Flavio and Oceania Barbini. I think they know how grateful I am that they let me have these… heirlooms.

I will be offering a small selection for sale on my soon to be launched (November 1st) shop at michelleworkman.com/shop I hope you will stop by and share in the beauty of these pieces with me!

Me, Flavio, and Oceania

The first thing I thought of was a chinese lantern.

Chinese Lanterns - Photo by Mike Richards

Lanterns of course made me think of lamps.

Vintage Marbro Company Murano Lamps from Swank Lighting

I also began to wonder what other things might take their cue from this shape.

Art Deco Burma Ruby Clip

Not only Jewelry but gowns from times past (oh, I wish we still dressed like this!)

From Mme. Demorest Mirror of Fashions

Lanvin evening dress 1924

And of course one can’t forget the vase.

19th Century Kutani Vase

When choosing furniture pieces for clients, shape is the most important aspect – it defines the style, and gives rise to all sorts of opportunities.  Shapes inspire design as much as color or texture, and nature is the mother of that inspiration.

Playing with the scale of furnishing can turn make even classic design elements feel like fun. The large mirror dominates this foyer.

Button tufting may be traditional but it is also a fun design element that can transform the look of any upholstered piece. Love how it is repeated on both the headboard and sofa in this bedroom.

Quilting is similar to button-tufting in the design patterns it creates. A quilted coverlet at the end of the bed offers pattern and texture as well as warmth.

Pattern, like this lattice pattern, can be subtle or bold. Add it to furnishings through paint or paper or even fabric to add fun to your furnishings.

Playing with light and dark is another way to have fun with design elements as you explore new decorating ideas. Black built-in bookshelves are backed with a light, rose gold color that ties in with the furnishings in the room.

Whimsy is underrated. Adding a touch of whimsy or a large whimsical element, like this mural, can be fun and stylish in living room designs. Love the beautiful color palette.

Color, pattern, texture, scale, a little bit of whimsy, metallics, playing with light and dark hues… all these design elements can be seen in this room. Gorgeously styled. [ Images†1 / 2 / 3 / †4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 ]

What’s your favorite style of furnishings? You can find great furnishing inspiration at Design Shuffle where talented designers, such as Boston interior designers and San Francisco interior designers showcase their portfolios to inspire all!

Home decor is made up of all kinds of elements, from furniture and light fixtures to wall art and everything in-between. But one of the best tried-and-true ways to tie the look of a room together is to not only ensure there is a pre-determined colour palette but to also integrate it from bottom to top — tippy-top! Stunning rooms with painted ceilings look seamless and streamlined (not to mention super stylish)! Here are a few faves:

A touch of lavender

Simply Irresistible… Designs! via

An interior sunroom with layered window treatments (sheers and heavier curtains), manicured potted plants and a pale purple ceiling all culminate to create a calming oasis.

Mural mural on the ceiling…

decor8 via

Michelangelo may have adorned the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and this dreamy cherub mural on the ceiling of this cozy kitchen adds major visual impact to such a small space. The matching pendant light is a nice added touch — couldn’t even tell there was a light fixture up there!

Matchy matchy

My Home Ideas via

A painted ceiling helps create dimension in this whitewashed bathroom – the sky blue section above is a great home decor detail in that it “lowers” the height of the space. The mismatched ceiling lights definitely adds character to this lovely bathroom.

Sunny stripes

ChicGeek Designs via

Stunning rooms with painted ceilings don’t always have to have one solid colour – stripes are a stylish way to elongate a space, like this kid’s room.

Great grey

Minted Life via

A painted ceiling that “bleeds” onto the walls helps to change the overall depth of this bedroom. The comforter and furniture, such as the bench at the end of the bed, are also in a similar grey hue. The wooden-like light fixture in the middle of the room definitely balances the room.

Posh purple

Jordan Guide Design via

A purple ceiling looks more subdued when paired with other elements in the space, like the wall art and the table decorations – the purple print and flowers help bring the look together.

Sky blue

life-style via

A painted wood slat ceiling looks less obtrusive when criss-crossed with corresponding white beams. We also love how the fabrics are carried through from room to room.

Trendy turquoise

Studio Sweet Studio via

A home office or craft space can be more whimsical and playful than other more formal rooms in a house, so why not paint the ceiling in something unconventional, like a 50s diner turquoise?

Content provided by Arcadian Lighting, a site that specializes in top quality lighting fixtures at extremely affordable prices. Come visit us today!

Door Numbers

AMS Landscape Design Studios, Inc (via)

ThisNext (via)

First impressions are often the last, so it is imperative to make an imprint on the neighborhood. House or door numbers don’t have to just be practical but should also give a glimpse of what lies inside. Preferably they should compliment the house decor and for a visual impact, ensure the numbers are fixed on a contrasting backdrop.

Door Knockers

Kenroy Home (via)

In this tech dominated world, door knockers are being replaced by fancy security systems and intercom speakers. However, while useful, nothing is as charming as a quirky or a beautiful door knocker. Antique and brass nickel door knockers are quite popular, but one can go either contemporary or classic.

Cabinet Knobs

Wesley Ellen Design & Millwork (via)

Give a makeover to the entire house cabinetry by replacing the knobs on it. Remember to match it with your†home accessories and furniture and try not to be overwhelmed with the different kinds of styles, types and shades. Decorative cabinet knobs can be custom made as well and are easy to install, since they generally require only one screw or bolt.

Cabinet Pulls

2fORM Architecture PC (via)

Luminosus Design (via)

Pulls are generally limited when it comes to styling, however that doesnít mean they wonít enhance the look of your cabinets. Pulls are more streamlined and would be suited for a contemporary home. The elongated form can also be more advantageous since they allow a better grip and suitable for those suffering with arthritis or any form of motor disability.

Bathroom Hardware

Precious Nest (via)

Madison Taylor (via)

Towel bars, toilet paper holders, shower curtain rods, and hooks are also considered to be a part of bathroom hardware, so choose wisely. Use only quality products since the bathroom is the most used and abused part of the home.†Toilet paper holders should be mounted on the side of a cabinet or the back wall of the toilet. Install rods for hanging up towels and clothes. Add rings in the bathroom, since they occupy less space and break the symmetry. Lastly ensure that the hardware matches the bathroom dÈcor. So if you have an antique faucet, then make sure the hand towel rack next to is classically styled.

Switch Plates & Wall Outlet Covers

Wnetrza†(via)

Oulaka (via)

Switch plates and wall outlet covers are one of the most neglected†home accessories, which is unfortunate since they can really make a visual imprint. Decorative switch plate and wall outlet covers can provide a significant alteration to a room and can be customized according to the electrical wiring outlets. The best part? All your wiring gets concealed and you get to choose from an eclectic variety of styles like brushed nickel, wood, copper, metallic and even ceramic.

Content provided by Arcadian Home Decor, a site that specializes in top quality home decor items at extremely affordable prices. Come visit us today!

Modern Out of Africa (the movie was a wonderful inspiration for me when I was young) Bedroom

We start again with the walls, in this case I decided against wallpaper (though I had a really big argument with myself about that) and went with a deep green paint on the walls: Benjamin Moore 2044-10 “Green”. This color makes me relax and think calming thoughts of oceans, forests, mountains, and a peaceful nature.

Benjamin Moore 2044-10 Green

Next is the bed which comes to us from West Elm – normally I would suggest curtains to get that Out of Africa feel but I love the way it looks open too.

Ellipse Bed

Some very crisp and clean bedding from Anthropologie.

Diamond Pleating Bedding

This dresser from Z Gallerie is just the right mix of glam and safari camp with the mirrored drawer fronts and cerused oak frame, the X shape on legs (repeating on mirror) makes one think of the campaign chairs and travel items from that time period too – only modernized.

Carlyle Dresser

A bench at the end of the bed is not only cozy but functional too – a place to sit for the on and off of shoes!

Horchow Angus Metal Bench

Bedside tables complete the furnishings – these from Anthropologie go right along with our African Safari inspiration.

Truss Side Table

a rug (or three – layering them would definitely add to the sense of being in the wild) from West Elm.

Kite Kilim

West Elm Zebra Cowhide Rug

West Elm Masai Rug

Finally, some artwork to keep us inspired….

West Elm Paper Wall Art

Lourdes Sanchez Collection from West Elm

I think you get the idea….

Here is a photo of the inspiring tree.

Plum Tree Blossoms

Our walls would be papered in this lovely Silk hand-painted scenic wallpaper from Griffin and Wong

Satsuma

A rug from The Rug Company always delights, This Alexander McQueen is cashmere and divine!

Feathers by Alexander McQueen

A modern, yet plump and cozy sofa from The Collection.

Flanking the sofa these side tables with faux bois legs from Kay O’Toole

Faux Bois Leg - Marble Top

And sitting atop the tables I would put these gorgeous Foo Dog lamps from Belvedere

Foo Dog lamp with acrylic base

In front of the sofa I would use this large bench rather than a coffee table.

Pink Bench from Gustavo Olivieri

And I would refinish the legs dark and reupholster it in this metallic fabric from F. Schumacher

Shimmer Linen

Add these yummy chairs from Baker

Galerie Chair by Andre Arbus

Upholstered in this lovely plum blossom pink from Kravet

Fairmont Lattice - Blush

A dash of modern thrown in with this chair from Pieces

Ultra Modern Chrome Chair

This series of photographs is all that this space needs to be a mix of modern sumptuousness.

Southampton New York - Eric Cahan

Barra de Navidad, Mexico - Eric Cahan

Barra de Navidad, Mexico - Eric Cahan

Thanks to 1st Dibs for hosting such amazing dealers!