The Many uses for Library Ladders in the home

April 13, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

In honor of National Library Week I thought I would talk not about books or libraries, but about library ladders. I've always loved them. They seemed to make a room feel more important. A home library seemed much more serious and sophisticated when a sliding ladder was on hand - at least I thought this way as a child. I'm sure part of the appeal was less about the aesthetic than the functional, or fun. I so enjoyed climbing the ladders and exploring the various titles that were well above my reach. Titles that were hard to pronounce, subjects that would bore the average child. But books, whether I was particularly interested in them or not, seemed to cast a magical spell over me. They seemed to hold secrets to unknown universes, where pages and pages of the written word danced on and off the pages. Some had images, paintings and illustrations of well known works of art, some of which I had seen before, others I had not. But it wasn't how these books looked on and off the many shelves but how they felt in my hand. Some were light and pliable, others were heavy with pages that smelled of must and age, with yellowed pages. I then began to notice these very same ladders used in other areas of the home. I saw them in kitchens, used to retrieve items off those impossibly high shelves (I always questioned that design tactic), in wine cellars, storage closets, shelves, home offices and even closets. In fact, as long as there's a need to store items that are out of reach, there's no room that won't welcome these wonderful pieces.

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image Architectural Digest

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image Alec Hemmer

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Archetizer

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Archiform

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Domaine

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Freshome

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via HGTV

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Home Design Ideas

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Homedit

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Lonny

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Mechantdesign

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image via Planet Deco

The many uses for the library ladder in the home. Image source unknown

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning Home Bar

April 5, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image House Beautiful

I must admit that I find bars intoxicatingly gorgeous - large and small, in restaurants and in the home. Admittedly not a huge spirits person myself, though I've been sampling more lately when I'm out on assignment for restaurant and food reviews - I do prefer to stick to a nice glass of wine. The beauty I find in bars has less to do with the assorted bottles themselves, but their unique beauty and the stories these bottles and labels have to tell. Couple that with the manner in which they're displayed with glasses, mixers and add-ins, and the result is an energy that is colorful, serious and slightly whimsical.

The at home bar is as much about decor as it is about the selection of libations, bar and glassware. I've never been a terribly big fan of the bar cart, and I think has overstayed its welcome. I do love the spaces people create for their own personal bars in which they combine art, books and other assorted artifacts to create a space that is be very personal, ebullient, and celebratory. Whether your home is large or small, you needn't much space to create a stunning at home bar.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Pop Sugar

The Corner Bar:

A piece of Mid Century furniture (or reproduction) takes a stand. Perfect for displaying a few select items, the large doors open for optimal storage of bottles, barware and glassware. A beautiful vignette is created simply by careful placement of a painting, a plant, a few bottles and a decorative tray.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Zhush

Repurposed with a purpose

An ordinary dresser undergoes an extraordinary renovation when a mini fridge and a wine fridge are built into it. Inside the center of the console is additional storage while elegant decanters and trays are displayed above assorted accessories, artifacts and lamps.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Luxe Magazine

Vintage Charm

Your favorite piece of antique furniture gets a makeover. If it happens to be a valuable piece do have a piece of glass fitted and placed over the top to protect the wood from spills and moisture. The weathered wood makes for a nice contrast to the shiny brass, silver and glass elements above it.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image My Domaine

A Spirited Space

A causal sitting room is given dimension and personality with when assorted acquired artifacts take center-stage next to a cabinet that has had its doors removed and retrofitted with shelving to house assorted bottles, serving and snack items. The African characters seem to be keeping watch of the spirits!

This Bar walked into a Butler's Pantry:

With the addition of a few floating glass shelves, a lovely shade of blue lacquer and vibrant wall paper, this utilitarian space perfectly showcase how perfectly beautiful form and function can come together to create this magnificent bar. (Though my OCD is revealed with the thought that this must be dusted often!)

A Bar Takes a Stand:

Simple can be oh so sophisticated. One really doesn't need much to create a stunning bar display. A few bottles and glasses are all that are needed. If you need a piece of furniture in which to create a bar display you needn't spend a fortune. Start by looking a yard sales, consignment shops, antique shows and Goodwill. Inexpensive furniture can always be dressed up with a coat or two of paint. This could also be a way to utilize and odd piece of furniture that's being stored in the basement because you really weren't sure what to do with it.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Diego Revolo

Beauty and the Bar:

A simple tray, a few elegant glasses, decanters, artwork and plants work together to create a visually stunning image. Looking for artwork? Framed posters, prints and lithographs are a great way to start and can all be found online, at your favorite museum, art gallery, even on etsy. I've found some ugly paintings at consignment shops in gorgeous frames. Good frames can be quite pricey so if you spy a good frame at a good price, don't worry about trashing the picture in it. Minor scratches, blemishes and dings can always be covered up by painting or staining the wood.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Design Sponge

Mid Century Sensibility

I've been noticing a great many Mid Century pieces (as you've noticed here) being uses as a place to stage and store a home bar. Again, you'll see the now familiar items - a pretty tray, glasses, bottles, plants and artwork. Framed photography is a perfect addition. Make it personal by using images that you have taken on a vacations or travels.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Source Unknown

Of Books and Bars

The above might be my favorite of them all - it just speaks to me with all the different layers and textures and items. One's eye isn't drawn to any particular item, but the entire vignette which manages to draw the eyes up, down and then back up again with the many small and large details that all work together. What story is it trying to tell?

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Original source unknown

The Bar Under the Stairs

This might be the most ingenious of them all. Clever, creative whomever designed this brilliantly crafted something from nothing. Wasted space becomes spectacularly functional.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Nastasi Vail Design

Best (Book) Case, Bar None

Take advantage of your surroundings. If you're lucky enough to be blessed with gorgeous built-ins, use them. In my humble opinion, bars and books make a perfect pairing - The juxtaposition of the shapes and textures of the assorted bottles and barware play magnificently with the purpose-driven decor and simple shape of books. A door swings down to conceal the area when desired and opens out to become utilitarian when needed to create additional counter space.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Miles Redd

The Bar Behind Door Number 1:

I've always liked the closet bar. Perhaps that's because my grandmother had them, long before they were ever en vogue. Some people simply prefer to keep the bottles out of sight and under wraps. I adore the pop of color and element of surprise once the door is opened.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Jeffrey Bilhuber

The Bar Behind Door Number 2:

So dramatic! Such a statement! Color and architectural detail take center stage in this home bar which goes to show you just how a splash of color really does go such a very long way.

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Joy Tribout

Simple and Sophisticated

A simple sofa console doesn't take up much of a room's square footage and perfectly serves a purpose to accommodate a home mini bar. I do spy a design flaw here, do you?

(I might not want to keep a wood table or my spirits directly over a heat source!)

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image Louis Bustamante

A Bar of Elephantine Proportions

Really this isn't a particular big space and not terribly complicated to create. An assortment of bottles, glasses, trays set out on a counter flanked by two elegant lamps in front of a mirror which immediately adds light, height, and dimension to the space. But my favorite element of all, the massive elephants seemingly suspended in air!

20 Stirring Ideas for Creating a Stunning at home Bar. Image M. Frederick Design

A Handsome Bar

Handsome and rich. The ornate piece of furniture might have been made to house a collection of beautifully bottled up spirits. It's intricate beauty is perfectly juxtaposed by the simple and straightforward book collection in front of which it stands.

Bamboozled

Bamboo cabinets, a brick and mirrored back splash created a multi- textured Manhattan loft bar built in a small corner, requiring not much space. The disco-like backsplash maximize the space's light much like (though on a smaller scale) the mirror above does.

Rustic Charm, Bar None

An antique armoire with enjoys a new life as a liquor cabinet. Close the doors to conceal the content. As with the other bars, artwork, lighting and plants become part of the composition.

Go ahead, be a wallflower :: 15 Reasons to rethink floral wallpaper

February 27, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

I've noticed many of yesterday's trends are returning, reinventing themselves for today's modern home. One such item to grace the pages of top shelter magazines, websites and well designed homes is floral wallpaper. Today's florals are bold and striking, a far cry from what granny had in her home!

When one thinks of floral paper, images of delicate and pristine little flowers often come to mind with reference to the days of Laura Ashley and the home on the range, country flair. Or one thinks of papers decades old, stained from years of living, perhaps tattered, perhaps yellowing and peeling at the edged. I think of small English cottages lived in by little old ladies. I think of my first home when I couldn't wait to remove the outdated botanical images from my walls and replace them with several coats of brightly colored paint. There was, for a while, an anti wall paper movement of which I was very much a part of. After scraping down walls for what seemed to be an endless amount of time, I vowed never ever to do so again. And as I've learned, one should never say never. Luckily today's papers are easier to remove. Their acrylic coating which makes them scrubbable also quickly absorbs today's non-toxic strippers, which makes removing them much less of a hassle.

As with everything in the worlds of fashion and decor, what goes around comes around. Though florals have been blossoming for several years now, they're currently in the forefront, making a grand statements in the most well designed homes.

Today's prints are often bold, bright - they make a statement and take center stage. They are very much the focal point around which the rest of the set (home) design evolves. Some are quiet and understated yet many are commanding. Suitable for every space, these pretty, but by no means delicate, floral papers are found in all areas of the home.

And so, have I swayed you? Have you changed your mind in regards to floral wall paper? Could you see any of these designs in your own home?

For more wallpaper inspiration visit Dress Your Walls :: Why Wallpaper is Better than Paint

Blue and white in the home :: When a classic becomes a "trend"

February 12, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

There are certain color pairings that seem to last the test of time, that are suited to a multitude of architectural and interior styles. Like black and white, blue and white is iconic and elegant. It can be simple, chic, cutting edge and dramatic depending on the hue and setting. It's as versatile and universally appealing as any pairing. It can be safe and demure or it can be cutting edge and dramatic. It's smart, polished, luxe, lavish, and yet serene and tranquil. Blue and white serves as the perfect choice for those who want but yet fear color, as it does for those who embrace the dramatic and bold. Like a chameleon blue and white copiously morphs from one setting to another - from a tranquil coastal home, to an urban apartment to a stately manor. Like other classic colors, beige, grey, dark greens and black, blue won't ever fade from style, but now that it's once again in the spotlight, it has been brought back to the forefront - a serious contender for any setting, a popular choice once again, perhaps with thanks to Pantone's 2016 choices for Color of the Year. From Serenity to Snorkel and all the shades in between, blue and white embodies a multitude of styles and traits. Below are some images that I've curated. From traditional to transitional, classic to modern, there's a blue and white pairing for all palates. Yet, unlike conventional trends, this one has staying power.

13 Sublime Attic Transformations :: The Sky's the Limit!

January 26, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

I'm a lover of small spaces and despite the expansive homes I've lived in, I prefer the smaller ones. I love a small cozy home but because I have children, 3 of them, we all need places to get away for a while and we need a common living area that can comfortably seat us all. What we don't need is a rambling house where one can get lost in. It's overrated. I've been there and done that. I had one. I didn't like it. It wasn't for me.

I grew up in a spacious pre-war apartment on the Upper East Side with a sprawling kitchen, a butler's pantry, 2 "Maid's Rooms" - 1 of which was an office, the other a small guest room, a large dining room, a living room with a phenomenal view of Central Park which was just across the street and 2 expansive bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. A long and narrow hallway that opened up to the living room and housed two large closets separated the two bedrooms. I loved to climb those walls as a child. My childhood bedroom was a child's dream with two raised 4 poster beds, white wicker dressers, white wicker couch matching coffee table. Each wall had been painted a different color - pastel pinks, lavenders, yellows, greens and a pale blue ceiling coordinated with the pale leaf green shag rug below. The plaid bedding perfectly coordinated with the striped fabric on the couch and wall colors. It was magical and was the creative design of my mother. Although it was the quintessential little girl's bedroom my favorite spaces in the apartment were the 2 small "Maid's Rooms." The small burgundy room that was my father's office housed a long desk my mother had built specifically for that space. The desk spanned the length of the room. Over it were shelves and shelves filled with books. On the desk were assorted pads of paper, various writing implements and a dish of paper clips.

On the far wall was the only window in the small room. From it you could look out into the neighbor's kitchen and the courtyard below. In front of the window was a super comfortable oversized chair and to the left a small black and white television set. It would be many years before I would be allowed to have a television in my bedroom, but when friends came to spend the night we were allowed to carry the TV into my room where we'd stay up late to watch the Love Boat and Fantasy Island. But mostly the small television set lived in the office and I loved nothing more than to snuggle up in that chair and watch in there.

Next to my father's office, separated by a tiny bathroom, was the other Maid's Room that we used as a spare guest room - but mostly my mother used it when my father's snoring woke her up! Every once in a while I would get to stay there and I just adored it. I felt sheltered and cocooned. I felt safe. The decor was scant, but for a bed, an old fashioned secretary and a bentwood chair. I loved this room more than I loved my own. The small space, to me was perfection.

I feel the same way about small spaces now. After my marriage ended nearly 4 years ago I left my nearly 5000 square foot home with very little in tow save for my children. I ended up in a small house that was just over 1200 square feet. It was all I needed as all my furnishings had been left behind and we had to start all over again. The house, now filled with our furniture and accumulated items does feel small sometimes, despite its coziness.

There are certainly those times I would like to have an extra room to serve either as an escape or a place to which I can banish the children! The space is already here however. I would't need to add anything on to this charming little house - everything I need is at the top of the stairs. In the images below you'll see attics that have been beautifully transformed into play areas, bedrooms, sitting and living areas, bathrooms, home offices and even movie theaters. With attics, you see, the sky's the limit!

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via The Way We Play.

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Color Me Carla

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Tumblr

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Studio Aflo.

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Wood Home

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via ElleDecor

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Blood and Champagne

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Huffington Post.

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Domino Magazine

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via My Domaine

13 Sublime Attic Transformations - The Sky's the Limit! The Entertaining House. Image via Apartment Diet

Architecture Crush :: The A-Frame House

January 25, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

Architecture Crush - A-Frame Houses. The Entertaining House. Image via

The iconic triangular style home called the A-frame was a popular form of American architecture that surfaced in the 1930s and peaked in the 1950s and 60s. This mid-century tee-pee style of architecture, defined by it's steep roof, front and rear gables and deep-set eaves, seems to be enjoying a new-found popularity. Numerous windows, both large and small, can be found on the front and rear facades allowing the interiors to be graced by natural sunlight. The interiors are loft-like with their high ceilings, open-floor plans and limited living spaces with the exception of a couple of interior lofts. Due to their structure, these houses are best as vacation or secondary homes. Though now with the growing popularity of the smaller homes, it makes sense that the A-frame is once again becoming a style of interest. I love this style home for many reasons - I love it for its simplicity, the feeling of warmth and comfort it evokes, the large windows that open up to the outdoors and for the casual, rustic vibe which is a total contrast to our busy, modern lifestyles.

I'm always thinking about my next home and where I will settle when my children leave the nest. On one hand a small pied a terre in New York City would suit me perfectly, on the other hand there's something equally inviting about a small A-frame out in the country. Perhaps I should play the lottery and see if I can acquire both!

A brief history of the A-frame:

Triangular and tee-pee shaped homes date back to the dawn of time, but several 20th century architects awakened our interest in the geometric A-frame form.

Though the popularity of this style of home peaked in the 50's and 60s, it was Austrian-born architect Rudolph Schindler who in 1934 brought this design to the States when he built a simple A-frame vacation house in a resort community overlooking Lake Arrowhead in California. It had an open floor plan with exposed rafters and glass-walled gables.

It was perhaps the post WW2 era that brought forth the popularity of this style of home. During this period not only did Americans have more disposable income, allowing many to purchase vacation homes, but so was the affordability of the construction of this triangular shaped house. The style was so adaptable that many architects started to explore different avenues of creativity due to the versatility of this structure. Soon this modern style of architecture was preferred over the traditional, and this vacation style home began to crop up all over the place. According to some sources pre-fabricated kits were widely available and inexpensive and apparently could be purchase at such as establishments as Macy's. Imagine that! It was the well known modern architect, Andrew Geller, who may have given this style more than a passing thought and saw it as more than an inexpensive way to build a home, making it an important style of American architecture. For more read here.

Architecture Crush - The A-Frame House. The Entertaining House. Image via Cabin Porn.

For the love of A-Frames! The Entertaining House. Image via Homeedit.

A-frame Crush. Architecture. The Entertaining House. Image via Tumblr.

A-Frame Crush. The Entertaining House. Image via Freshome

A-Frame Lust. Architecture Crush. The Entertaining House. Image via Design Sponge

Architecture Crush. The A-Frame. The Entertaining House. Image via Design Sponge.

A-Frame Architecture. The Entertaining House. Image via Bromley Caldari.

A-Frame Architecture. The Entertaining House. Image via Tumblr.

Kind Finds from The 2015 Architectural Digest Home Design Show

March 21, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

It's become the much anticipated yearly event. Once a year, during the third week in March, The Architectural Digest Home Design Show sponsored by Architectural Digest and The New York Times, take over pier 94 overlooking the Hudson River. Members of the trade and homeowners flock to this great event to learn about the latest and greatest in home design and technology - it's where art, science and technology come together for the home.

This year color and design seemed to take front and center stage in all areas of the home from kitchens and baths to home accessories. Having attended for several years now, I've noted subtle changes from year to year, some for the better, some not. Last year, I left a bit disappointed and felt the event had turned more into a kitchen and bath show. This year, I have seen notable improvements in the layout of the show making the floor much easier to navigate - from the placement of the coat check to additional seating for weary feet. While the kitchens seemed to take center stage, I was glad to see more furniture again this year. As always I love the MADE section - the smaller artisans, and the addition of smaller home accessories into the mix.

Below is just a sampling of some of the many and varied finds.

Vetro Vero always captures my attention. Sleek, elegant and sublime, from stemware to barware, to vases and pitchers, these hand-blown, modern Venetian designs by Michael Schunke and Josie Gluck are stunning.  Find modern Venetian sty… — Vetro Vero always captures my attention. Sleek, elegant and sublime, from stemware to barware, to vases and pitchers, these hand-blown, modern Venetian designs by Michael Schunke and Josie Gluck are stunning. Find modern Venetian style goblets, functional wine decanters, stemware, and inspired home decor in bright jewel tones and smokey neutral colorways. Vetro Vero hand blown glass designs include Flat Pitchers, color-block Incalmo Vases, graceful Tapered Bottles and functional Flower Vases have garnered attention from such publications as Veranda, Elle Decor, Vogue, Traditional Home, Brides to name just a few. For more visit their website.

Hand-blown Venetian glass decanter detail by Vetro Vero

Handblown Venetian stemware by Vetro Vero

This magnificent agate table immediately caught my attention. It comes to us from The Matthew Studios collection which is inspired by nature and incorporates material that deeply resonate with founder, Katherine Wildt O'Brien, such as… — This magnificent agate table immediately caught my attention. It comes to us from The Matthew Studios collection which is inspired by nature and incorporates material that deeply resonate with founder, Katherine Wildt O'Brien, such as rough quartz crystal, semi-precious gems, exotic skins and lucite. For more information on this and other agate tables, please visit her website .

Pendant light from Hubbardton Forge, the oldest and largest commercial forge in the country had so many wonderful designs this year. The company was founded in 1974 -  Watergate was the big scandal, The Sting was the box-office hit, and ar… — Pendant light from Hubbardton Forge, the oldest and largest commercial forge in the country had so many wonderful designs this year. The company was founded in 1974 - Watergate was the big scandal, The Sting was the box-office hit, and artists and entrepreneurs George Chandler and Reed Hampton fired up their first blacksmithing forge in a drafty old Vermont barn.
With anvils, swage blocks, trip hammers and other tools from a bygone era, the two set out to revive the nearly forgotten craft of hand-forging raw metal into functional art. Their innovative designs became recognized for their simplicity and integrity. From these humble beginnings, one of the most respected brands in the industry was born.
Today, Hubbardton Forge is the oldest and largest commercial forge in the country with a team of over 200 people creating hand-forged lighting of timeless beauty and artistry…an American wrought-iron renaissance. For more and to view their entire product line please visit their website.

Carolyn Cartwright creates her lamps in the tradition of the Venetian masters, with a more modern approach. She creates her lamps to give focus and expression to a space. Her aim is to make objects today that will become the heir… — Carolyn Cartwright creates her lamps in the tradition of the Venetian masters, with a more modern approach. She creates her lamps to give focus and expression to a space. Her aim is to make objects today that will become the heirlooms of tomorrow. Her lamps are spectacular in color and shape. For more information please visit her website.

I loved this lamp. I don't know who the designer is but it was on display with The Lacquer Company.

I'm madly in love with everything about The Lacquer Company. Founded in 2008 by James Lowther, the designs are clean, modern and sensible yet retain the English influences from his first job at Colefax & Fowler in London. Low… — I'm madly in love with everything about The Lacquer Company. Founded in 2008 by James Lowther, the designs are clean, modern and sensible yet retain the English influences from his first job at Colefax & Fowler in London. Lowther's design projects mix classic and modern elements and can be found in numerous apartments, townhouses and beach houses in Manhattan and the Hamptons.
Lowther bought his first piece of lacquer when travelling in Burma fifteen years ago; a century-old betel box in burnt orange that, even today, remains one of his favorite things. It was from that experience that he learned about the lacquer process and began to appreciate the patience, skill and attention to detail that goes into the finest examples.
Lowther has partnered with such talent as Rita Konig, Martin Brudnizki and Steven Gambrel who have collaborated on the design. For more please visit the company website.

LAFCO New York is among one of my most favorite fragrance companies. LAFCO (Luxury Articles and Fragrance Company) was established over 20 years ago when founder, Jon Bresler, quit his job as a lawyer to pursue his passion for body care. In 199… — LAFCO New York is among one of my most favorite fragrance companies. LAFCO (Luxury Articles and Fragrance Company) was established over 20 years ago when founder, Jon Bresler, quit his job as a lawyer to pursue his passion for body care. In 1992, Jon began travelling across Europe, foraging for hard-to-find specialty items and learning about how they were made. He supplemented his research with a self-imposed apprenticeship to study the nuances of alchemy and perfumery. As Jon grew fascinated with the rich histories of these disciplines, he envisioned LAFCO as a company that would actively participate in their preservation. LAFCO grew as Jon trained with internationally renowned creators of natural skin care and perfumes, and eventually imported their entire collections. He carefully maintained the spirit and integrity of every line as he brought them together to recreate an authentic European apothecary experience in his native New York. Products range from soaps (both hard and liquid) to candles and diffusers, to hand cream. Using only all-natural ingredients, these products emit the most wonderful, natural and clean fragrances that are neither too potent or too mild. WIth stores in New York City and Dallas, you can also find their products at various boutique store across the country, as well as on line. The packaging is as exquisite as the products and will enhance any home. For more visit their website.

Ping Pong for the luxury set. This gorgeous glass ping pong table designed by Calma e Gesso brings the game to a whole new level. For those seeking to bring recreation out of the basement and playroom this may be what you're looking for. Grace and e… — Ping Pong for the luxury set. This gorgeous glass ping pong table designed by Calma e Gesso brings the game to a whole new level. For those seeking to bring recreation out of the basement and playroom this may be what you're looking for. Grace and elegance, clean modern lines make this luxury item perfect for the home for those who work hard and play hard. Until now, one may not place the words sophistication and ping pong together in the same sentence. How much will this set you back? Just a cool $30K!

For more information on Calma e Gesso please visit their  website — For more information on Calma e Gesso please visit their website

Smeg is an Italian company has captured my heart and attention. What beautiful design and such graceful looking products ranging from tea kettles to blenders and mixers to ovens to beverage coolers. I will write more on them at a later time.

At House of Rohl you'll find that authentically crafted faucets and fixtures are more than just form and function. They are truly pieces of art made by artisans using skillsets that have been passed on from generation to generation. Each fixture cel… — At House of Rohl you'll find that authentically crafted faucets and fixtures are more than just form and function. They are truly pieces of art made by artisans using skillsets that have been passed on from generation to generation. Each fixture celebrates craftsmanship, heritage and authenticity.

Whether formal and sumptuous or simple with clean linear lines. Each piece is crafted with precision.

For more information on House of Rohl and to see their extensive collection, please visit their website. — For more information on House of Rohl and to see their extensive collection, please visit their website.

To see these and hundreds and hundreds more visit The Architectural Digest Home Design Show's website.

And be sure to wear flats or comfortable walking shoes!

I was quite taken by these Nestled Cylinder Pendants from Jamie Harris Studio.Made in New York, these pieces play on stacking geometric forms to create sophisticated lighting structures that illuminate with elegance.  Colors and fixture are cus… — I was quite taken by these Nestled Cylinder Pendants from Jamie Harris Studio.Made in New York, these pieces play on stacking geometric forms to create sophisticated lighting structures that illuminate with elegance. Colors and fixture are custom-designed for your project. Available as individual pendants, or can be built into chandeliers in any shape. For more information visit Jamie Harris Studio.

This wood assemblage by Michael Sanzone was created from wood found at an Irish whiskey distillery. For more visit Kathryn Miriam's website.

Eric Trine describes himself as a "I'm Eric Trine. I consider myself an object based studio artist and designer, or more simply, a maker of things." He designs by making instead of by drawing.  Each idea starts with a tool instead of a pen… — Eric Trine describes himself as a "I'm Eric Trine. I consider myself an object based studio artist and designer, or more simply, a maker of things." He designs by making instead of by drawing. Each idea starts with a tool instead of a pencil. For more on the artists and his creations, visit his website.

Mehmet Cetinkaya Gallery brings us beautiful fabrics from Istanbul. For more visit their website.

Cowhides and bold graphics create a modern juxtaposition between material and pattern. The rug’s outline is natural and unique to each piece. Each one is hand painted in Brooklyn. For more visit Avoavo.

Gorgeous linens and home accessories from Japanese-made Rikumo. — Gorgeous linens and home accessories from Japanese-made Rikumo.

I was mesmerised by the Calico Wallpaper — I was mesmerised by the Calico Wallpaper

Everything old is new again and this Kickback Coffee Table is the perfect example. This table was designed for the music lover who takes his downtime seriously. It’s the ultimate table to come home to after a long day—with a recessed … — Everything old is new again and this Kickback Coffee Table is the perfect example.
This table was designed for the music lover who takes his downtime seriously. It’s the ultimate table to come home to after a long day—with a recessed area to house a turntable, a side cutout for an amp, a niche for over 120 albums, and a solid brass inset to hold a whiskey or wine bottle (or ash tray if you live in a legal state). Kick back, enjoy a drink or a smoke, and when side A comes to an end, no need to get up—just lean over, flip the record, and pour another finger. For more information visit the Atocha Design website.

I was quite taken by the beauty of these glass decanters by Chesterfield Glass Art.

Mitchell Black, a new tradition for gift and home is new to the show this year. It is a nod to the past and a focus on the present. This celebrates the aesthetic from the past through modern living. It all began in 2012 from… — Mitchell Black, a new tradition for gift and home is new to the show this year. It is a nod to the past and a focus on the present. This celebrates the aesthetic from the past through modern living. It all began in 2012 from a collection of vintage copper and silver plate etchings. I loved the modern whimsical accessories. For more visit their website.

Discover the secrets to creating a more luxurious-looking home

February 18, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

What can you do to make your home look more expensive?Image ElleDecor — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image ElleDecor

What is it about those homes that look elegant, timeless and well, more expensive? It's really all in the decor. It's not the size of the home that matters, but how everything is presented inside. There are certain elements that are found in the more luxurious, pricier houses that can be implemented into any home - no matter of style or size. You'll see certain characteristics repeated in all the luxury homes that can easily be carried out in your home. Now, short of changing your homes bones - there are certain things that won't be easily changed, like ceiling height and overall footprint - there are many things we can do to trompe l'oeil - or trick the eye.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via

You'll notice the following characteristics in most of the pricier homes.
Bold. Many of the most luxurious homes are bursting with color. Deep jewel tones and bright citrus tones often scream luxury.

Gloss and Drama. There's something about a beautifully colored room that's painted in a high lacquer that just commands your attention. It's as if the walls are shouting, "Look at me! I'm important!" A gorgeous glossy black door is so much more elegant and sophisticated than one that's matte and in a shade of colonial blue. Yet, that colonial blue becomes elegant when painted in gloss.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Via Architectural Digest — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Via Architectural Digest

Black. Charcoal. Elegant, rich and sexy. Especially when painted in high gloss. Bold. Drama. Commanding. Timeless and classic.

Bright. Use and take advantage of natural sunlight. Don't obstruct those windows. Ever. When hanging curtains make sure that they can be completely pulled aside on either side of the window. Make sure your home is well lit and has ample lighting. Invest in a few additional light fixtures or lamps if need be. Dimmers help set the mood and the tone. There will be times when you'll want a brightly lit home and times when you'll want to take advantage of the dimmers.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via Carla Aston — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via Carla Aston

Airy. Luxurious homes always seem to have a bright and airy feel to them, even in those rooms painted in darker, bolder tones. Fake a higher ceiling and larger windows. Use mirrors to create space and light. Mirrors, when placed opposite windows reflect that natural sunlight that enters your home and will also create the illusion of a large space.

When hanging curtain Curtains... Whether you're a minimalist or not, there's an appropriate curtain style for your home and window. When hanging your curtains extend the curtain rods well beyond the windows so that when pulled open they'll give the illusion that your windows are larger than they are. Also be sure to hang the curtains right below the ceiling and not just above the window frame. Hanging them higher will create an illusion of height, whereas hanging them down low, will make your room feel shorter. Additionally, there should be enough material for them to sweep the floor. Yes, you want them all the way down to the floor... touching the floor and not practically touching the floor!

Use Metallic (golds/brasses). Just a touch. A little goes a long way. An accent piece, a light fixture, an accessory. Gold pairs wonderfully with bold and dark colors and adds a touch of luxe to your surroundings. Are you the daring type? Try a gold wall on for size. If you do keep in mind that the rest of the room should complement the gold wall. Too much flash and your room will instantly look like trash!

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via The New York Times — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via The New York Times

Fabrics. Textures. Prints. Just as the colors are warm and rich, your textures should be as well - rich leathers, velvets, luxurious silks, furs, delicate linens. All these wonderful textures pair well and create depth when paired together. Don't skimp on fabric. Nothing nothing can cheapen the look of a room so quickly as a bad animal print, faux fur or cheap looking leather.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via Lonny — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via Lonny

Look up. Don't forget your ceilings. Paint or wallpaper your ceilings. It's all in the detail. Your rooms are like canvasses. Cover them all. Cover them well.

Look down. If you see wall to wall carpeting beneath, rip it up! Rip it up now! Refinish those wood floors so that they shine and stand out on their own. If you don't have wood floors you may want to consider installing them. For those on a budget there are some great looking laminates out there. Or consider painting your floors a fun color or pattern. Layer your floors with lush rugs to add warmth and more texture.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via Sarah Sarna — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via Sarah Sarna

Details. Don't overlook the details. If your walls are lacklustre consider adding moulding - to the baseboards, chair-rail and your ceiling. You'll notice that the high end homes have a great deal of character and the moulding really makes a room feel elegant, classic and historic.

What can you do to make your home look more expensive? Image via Google Images - original source unknown — What can you do to make your home look more expensive?
Image via Google Images - original source unknown

Artwork. Your walls are a canvas. Fill them up. Large pieces, small pieces. Many sizes clustered together. You needn't invest in a De Kooning, Warhol or Chagall. Pick up pieces from your travels, even those of your children can look elegant when grouped in like frames, or stand out singularly in ornate ones. Look to consignment shops for art and frames. Even decorative pieces that can accent your decor.

Books. You'll notice that the loveliest of homes all have walls and piles of books. You'll find books color coded in bookshelves, and art and decorating books piled carefully and purposefully on coffee tables.

19 Stylishly Smart Window Seats to read by or simply while away the hours

February 14, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

What is it about window seats? What's their appeal? Is it the views they offer to the outside world? Is it the warm thoughts of comforts and coziness that they evoke, and the instant calm they bring to those who gaze upon their immediately soothing presence?

These sitting spaces are so much more than a space to sit on offering an appealing view - They're so much more. Not only aesthetically pleasing, they're incredibly functional and seem to pass the test of time. Ever-present in all sorts of American architectural styles, from Colonial to Contemporary, they can be found in just about any room, in homes from large to small. Their versatility accommodates every type of decorating style imaginable, and many of these sweet spots offer more than a place to relax, but can serve as a valuable means of storage, for often shelves and cabinets are built-in right beneath. The perfect window seat offers both form and function. Below are 18 more images to inspire you - views of the world from high above some bustling cities, overlooking tranquil waters and zen-like gardens.

Image via Pinterest (original source unknown)

How to display your children's art elegantly in your home (Get it off the refrigerator doors!)

February 13, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

The best way to display your children's artworkImage via Our Fifth House — The best way to display your children's artwork
Image via Our Fifth House

Right before I graduated from college I told someone that I was going to curate an art exhibit at a children's museum. I was going to fill the entire space with refrigerator doors from which all the artwork would hang. I couldn't have been more than 21 when I came up with that idea, and truth be told I still do love the idea. So if you happen to have a children's museum connection... or know someone who does...

Children are so proud of all their accomplishments - and it seems the younger they are, the prouder they are. They're also so eager to please and they're eager for our approval. Now realistically it's impossible to hang on to every little sketch, scratch and scribble, especially if there are several children in the house. I have 2 large leather art portfolios in which are neatly tucked away all sorts of projects that my older two presented to us in their youth. And there are the dozens (hundreds?) of pieces of paper that had to very discreetly land in the garbage bin in the garage. We've got albums filled with artwork, and some artwork that has been framed and elegantly hung on the walls.

I love to enter a home that has been so beautifully designed and see a Picasso on one wall, and children's art, beautifully framed, on another. This says a lot to me. This says, first of all, that the people in this home appreciate the finer things but they don't take themselves so seriously. It also tells me that they have a whimsical side, for there's nothing so light and jovial as children's art - it reminds us that the imperfections and imprecisions are truly beautiful. Our children are so proud of their creations and we should be as well. And because of this, there are better ways to showcase their creations than on your refrigerator doors. See below how young art is hung gracefully in kitchens, home offices, in living, dining, bedrooms and nurseries. Some stand proudly on their own, in large ornate frames, while others are grouped together in frames of like color or style and others are combined with other family treasures and photographs to create lovely galleries.

The best way to display your children's artwork Image via ElleDecor — The best way to display your children's artwork
Image via ElleDecor

The best way to display your children's artworkImage via Joanna Goddard - A Cup of Jo — The best way to display your children's artwork
Image via Joanna Goddard - A Cup of Jo

The best way to display your children's artImage via Apartment Therapy — The best way to display your children's art
Image via Apartment Therapy

The best way to display your children's artImage via House Beautiful — The best way to display your children's art
Image via House Beautiful

The best way to display your children's artworkVia Hello Bee — The best way to display your children's artwork
Via Hello Bee

The Best way to display children's artworkImage via An Indian Summer — The Best way to display children's artwork
Image via An Indian Summer

The best way to display children's artImage via Tumblr — The best way to display children's art
Image via Tumblr

The best way to display children's artImage via Bippity Boppity Boo — The best way to display children's art
Image via Bippity Boppity Boo

The best ways to display children's artImage via Laura Singleton Interiors — The best ways to display children's art
Image via Laura Singleton Interiors

The best ways to display children's artworkImage via Velvet and Linen — The best ways to display children's artwork
Image via Velvet and Linen

The New Neutrals :: How to incorporate animal prints in your home

February 11, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

The new neutrals - how to incorporate animal prints into your home decorimage via — The new neutrals - how to incorporate animal prints into your home decor
image via

The difference between a trend and a classic is often nothing more than staying power. A trend becomes a classic when it has proven the ability to stay the course, to endure the years, to outlast, outlive, outwit. A classic is such that looks timeless, elegant and, to some degree effortless, over the years. I wrote last about black and white and why it is a perfect color pairing. It is such because of its timeless appeal, because it never fades from style, from beauty, from taste. It is a classic because it can accommodate any lifestyle or decorating style and because it works well within all budgets and spaces. When done properly, animal prints can have the same effect.

Many prefer a neutral home for a myriad of reasons. Some are a bit afraid of color and some just like the ease of life and living within neutral tones. Yet, these subtle, quiet, yet often elegant and sophisticated tones can feel sleepy and lacklustre without a certain pop of color, pattern... something. And this is where animal prints fit in beautifully.

I grew up in an era where animal prints were often equated with gaudiness. They were usually over the top, a la trashy Jackie Collins Hollywood Wives literature. At least, that was my personal take on it all. Because, as with everything else, too much of something, of anything is never a good thing. And this is especially true of the animal print. It was over-the-top and then, just like that, it was seemingly gone.

But a few years ago it once again became mainstream. We saw it all over the pages of our favorite shelter magazines and we saw it on the runway. It was declared to be a fad, like the color of the year. But this fad stayed, because, when done right, whether zebra, tiger, giraffe - they are as beautiful and graceful and elegant as the animals themselves. Used carefully, and in moderation, animal prints can be used in any room of the home. Below are some exquisite examples as to how you can incorporate animal prints into your home whether as an accent piece or focal point, with neutral tones and bright colors, even with other patterns.

Bust just as it was overdone in the past, it can be overdone today. When using a bold print such as this try to stick with the less is more way of thinking. You can still go large and wrap a room in a beautiful zebra print paper, as seen below, but be careful then, not to add any more. Finish the room with other colors, even other complementary patterns. Pay attention to quality - a high quality fabric will lift up your space, one of poor quality can send it crashing down! I've selected the following images from top design sites and blogs to best illustrate how animal print can work well with any decorating style.

The New Neutrals - incorporating animal prints into your home decorimage via — The New Neutrals - incorporating animal prints into your home decor
image via

The new neutrals - how to incorporate animal print into your home decorimage via — The new neutrals - how to incorporate animal print into your home decor
image via

What makes a warm and welcoming kitchen?

February 6, 2015 Jessica Gordon Ryan

When it comes to the kitchen I prefer a more traditional look with modern appliances. I like the warm, worn-in look of exposed beams, bricks, and hardwood floors. I like warm woods, cool colors, deep coppers and heavy steel. I love large windows where the sun can burst through, and illuminate everything within. I like a kitchen that has a sense of history - one that tells a story of a generation, or several, past, filled with shelves or bookcases filled with books that have been splattered on, with dog-eared pages... copper pots, iron skillets hanging overhead... baskets piled neatly, tucked away. There must be a large table where family and friends can congregate, chat and prepare food. A kitchen must be warm, beautiful and utilitarian. It must be utilitarian. Lighting and layout are key. So is storage and counter space for prepping. I'd love a fireplace in mine one day. That would be the ultimate touch for me. I tend to think that a kitchen that is more modern in feel - both in structure and design is often sterile and lacks the welcoming warmth a kitchen ought to have.

I love to entertain and so my kitchen must accommodate and reflect this. There must be a place where friends and family can gather to chat, eat, even to help cook. My kitchen mustn't ever feel cold and sterile, but used and well lived-in. I don't want my counter-tops bare. I want them filled with baskets of fruit, maybe a plate of something freshly baked and just out of the oven... and yet I do not want them cluttered.

There's something about a fireplace in the kitchen that just adds the perfect touch, making it that much more welcoming. Or maybe a wood burning stove in which to cook a pizza for those impromptu get togethers? Many kitchens have stools at the counter. My children prefer them to the kitchen table - it makes them feel as though they are part of the action even when they're not. But what I love best in a kitchen is a couch or two if the space can accommodate such which can make a hard space seem softer and more inviting.

A little old and a little new work wonderfully together giving a space an historic, nostalgic feel while lending itself perfectly for the busy, modern lifestyle of today. The clean lines marry well with the rustic charm.

There's nothing quite like stepping into a cook's kitchen - filled with books and all sorts of cooking devices. A kitchen that is well used and well lived in offers something for all the senses - the sights, colors, sounds, smells...

I love color and detail and textures in my kitchens. I happen to adore this look of the mismatched tiles and the patterns created and the old brass fixture.

All of my favorites in one place - the warmth of the wood, brick, steel and copper with the large bright windows and the clean, sleek lines. Now we need to toss a few pots on to the stove-top, add some music, a bottle of wine and a few glasses!