Mad for Monaco

Getting away always seems to reenergize my spirit and open my mind to fresh ideas.  Because I'm not planning on going anywhere particularly inspiring for at least a few months, the lovely details in this Timothy Whealon-designed residence in Monaco will have to calm my travel appetite until then.  This home is just one of the enchanting residences featured in the special international Grand Tour issue of Architectural Digest (I highly suggest you pick up a copy).  I've always wanted to visit Monaco, mostly because of Grace Kelly, and you can bet that if/when I do go I will track down this beautiful residence -- I figure it won't be that hard...a large home with a stunning conservatory amid the city's glimmering high-rises -- and snap a pic!  And who knows, if I'm lucky maybe the owner will invite me in to see his inspiring collection of European antiques and mid century pieces...we'd have tea in the conservatory and discuss why he chose blue carpet for his bedroom (the only thing I hate about this house).  A girl can dream, right? I strongly believe that travel can change your life and the way you live, so do tell, what are your travel plans for this summer?

(photography by simon watson for architectural digest // scanned by kristin kerr)

Big + Beautiful

Even though gallery walls seem to be grabbing all the headlines lately, I've been noticing a lot large scale photographs showing up on the pages of my favorite design magazines.  I absolutely love Timothy Whealon's design that was featured in the October issue of Veranda with its pops of blue and green .  But it’s the photograph over the blue velvet bench that really got my attention.  The photograph of The Museum of Archeology in Venice is by the German artist Candid Höfer.  There is something so striking about its scale and clarity.  So as much as I love a gallery wall full of tiny artwork, this space has me feeling the need to move in a new direction, toward something on a larger scale.  This weekend mission must find reasonably priced, large architectural photograph devoid of people begins.  So far it's turning out to be harder than I expected.  I've combed through Etsy, 20x200 and Zatista but nothing really seems to compare to these large, clear, expensive beauties...

Candida Höfer, Masonic Temple Philadelphia I, 2007. Sonnabed Gallery

Massimo Listri, For Gallery

Massimo Listri

Jonathan Ball, Zatista

Chris Payne, Clic Bookstore & Gallery

Inspired By: Timothy Whealon

This weekend in Chicago we got a beautiful little taste of fall and it was Heaven! The windows were opened all weekend and when I was walking around looking for an apartment I noticed some leaves falling. The interiors above, designed by Timothy Whealon, remind me of this amazing time of year when summer meets fall.  I think it's safe to say I love just about every interior designed by Timothy.  His impeccable eye for color, art and antiques result in a wonderful mix of sophistication with a modern approach. His use of  rich colors and fabrics make me want to embrace the cold weather with open arms.  Time to pull out the (faux) fur throw! 

Want Timothy's look?  Check out Decorator Tag Sale.