Since this month is scheduled for a "Know Your Chairs" post (see the post later this month featuring the classic Brentwood chair by William Haines), I thought it was appropriate to share a new chair created by Fornasetti and venerable Italian furniture manufacturer Poltrona Frau.
This chair, dubbed the Vanity Fair XC chair sports an iconic design by Piero Fornasetti which is digitally printed on leather. This limited edition run of 50 chairs went on sale solely through the Poltrona Frau site on February 15th, but starting this April 10th, it will also be available in select Poltrona Frau brick and mortar stores.
The Fornasetti site describes the collaboration:
"Poltrona Frau's timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship meet Fornasetti's surreal Soli e Nuvole illustrations in this exclusive limited-edition of 50 Vanity Fair XC armchairs.
The iconic Vanity Fair XC armchair, a celebrated symbol of Italian design, encounters Fornasetti's mesmerizing pattern, a stunning composition of the sun and moon rising over swirling clouds, digitally-printed in meticulous detail on Pelle Frau® Impact Less leather.
For the first time, Poltrona Frau employs a digital printing technique that recalls silkscreen printing, reproducing Fornasetti's intricate hand-drawn patterns on leather, ensuring unparalleled detail and a unique tactile sensation.
Each of the 50 pieces is meticulously hand-crafted in Italy, individually numbered and accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity."
Happy designing!
Monday, April 8, 2024
Monday, March 25, 2024
Know Your Sofas: The Tuxedo Sofa
Originating in the Art Deco1920s and named for Tuxedo Park, a village in New York (where the likes of William Waldorf Astor, J.P. Morgan, and Dorothy Draper, previously here, partied!), the Tuxedo sofa is sharp and tailored; not only is the sofa named for the town but also the formal menswear suiting got its name here as well! A hallmark of the sofa is that the arms are the same height as the back. A true Tuxedo is tufted, as shown below. But what is the difference between a Tuxedo sofa and a Chesterfield sofa, previously covered here in Know Your Sofas? The Tuxedo is sleeker, with track arms whereas the Chesterfield is plumply overstuffed with rolled arms. Overall, the Tuxedo feels more delicate and the Chesterfield feels burly.
The pair of sofas below, the Powell and the Laguna models from Burton James, offer a classic Tuxedo silhouette. The Powell is presented with a bench seat that feels a little mid-century, but the Laguna is shown with two cushions, small nickel nailheads, and acrylic legs lending it a more Deco air.
Bernhardt's Beckett sofa features traditional diamond tufting on the back and arms.
The extra width of the three-cushion Matteo sofa from Century is welcoming...they also make a four-cushion for additional seating!
Lexington's Camille sofa has a double row of nailheads... ...while the Byatt from Theodore Alexander has a row of nailheads inside the seating area which defines the tufting, making the design even more crisp and tailored.
Happy designing!
The pair of sofas below, the Powell and the Laguna models from Burton James, offer a classic Tuxedo silhouette. The Powell is presented with a bench seat that feels a little mid-century, but the Laguna is shown with two cushions, small nickel nailheads, and acrylic legs lending it a more Deco air.
Powell Tuxedo sofa from Burton James |
Beckett Tuxedo sofa by Bernhardt |
Beckett Tuxedo sofa by Bernhardt |
The extra width of the three-cushion Matteo sofa from Century is welcoming...they also make a four-cushion for additional seating!
Matteo Tuxedo sofa from Century |
Matteo Tuxedo sofa from Century |
Lexington's Camille sofa has a double row of nailheads... ...while the Byatt from Theodore Alexander has a row of nailheads inside the seating area which defines the tufting, making the design even more crisp and tailored.
Byatt Tuxedo sofa from Theodore Alexander |
Happy designing!
Monday, March 11, 2024
The Three Mistakes Everyone Makes When Planning Their Own Remodel
In my nearly two decades of being an interior designer, I have heard my share of stories of remodels that went quickly and efficiently, but I have heard many horror stories of remodels that went down in flames. The difference? Before you begin thinking about your remodel, you need to read about these three common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Starting your remodel without a physical plan
Whether you want to remodel your home or a room within it, especially a kitchen or bathroom where every inch of space matters, you need a clear plan of action: what will be remodeled, what will change or be replaced and what will stay (if anything), and where will it all go? Often a bathroom’s footprint cannot change due to plumbing line locations, but you should still review any item you are installing. Will your new vanity fit the old spot? Is it higher? Is it a wall mounted vanity or will it sit on the floor? Do you want a wall mounted or deck mounted faucet? Your contractor will want to know these things so she or he can make sure to include the work in the quote, but also plan for whatever extra work those decisions might entail: for example a floating vanity requires extra wood reinforcements in the wall and a wall mounted faucet requires in-wall plumbing. As you can imagine, a kitchen can be much more complicated simply because it features more cabinetry and appliances. Working without a plan set for your contractor to refer to while installing elements in any space can result in costly errors.
Expecting A Completed Remodel In An Unrealistic Timeframe
Remodels in the real world are not like the remodel shows you see on home and garden television shows. A kitchen or bathroom cannot be ripped down to the studs, installed, and completed in a week or two. Renovation work is a complicated process in which your contractor needs to “stack the subs” or in lay terms, hire the correct professionals for each phase of work when they are needed. Your work will most likely require not only your contractor but also a plumber, an electrician, a tile setter, a sheet rocker, a plasterer, a painter, and in the case of a bathroom, a glazier for the shower enclosure. All these experts are booked in turns as each aspect of the installation comes up. I have often heard potential clients say they need the bathroom done in two or three weeks in time for some special event, a request which is totally unrealistic. Even before the pandemic, it took some time for materials to be ordered, shipped, and delivered. We have still not completely recovered from the pandemic and lead times remain a little long for some materials and furnishings.
Underestimating The Cost Of Your Remodel
This one derails homeowners the most. Before the pandemic, a remodel was always a pricey exercise. But since then, the cost of materials has skyrocketed, the cost of transportation and delivery has skyrocketed, and as the cost of living has increased so has the cost of labor. What used to seem like a nice-sized savings to pay for a bathroom, kitchen, or partial or whole house remodel is no longer sufficient. But one thing has not changed and that is that remodels are always more expensive than you think they should or will be.
The best way to do avoid these three mistakes is, of course, to hire a professional who can guide you through all the steps and even create a paper plan for the contractor and sub-contractors to see and use as a road map for what will be done, and how it will be installed. One of the valuable features of planning ahead is being able to spot problems and issues before they arise and plotting it out on paper is essential, and a good way to spot potential sticking points like, for example, not enough room between a vanity and a door for moulding. A set of renderings that show a plan view and elevations are useful for everyone to visualize what the new space will look like. I work in a 3D program to illustrate the concept of the space and give clients an idea of what the proposed space will feel like.
I also have clients approve the final design for the space(s), then have all elements purchased from my network of vendors and, if possible, on site before work begins (this always makes contractors very happy). Design is a process and should be navigated judiciously. Lead times can be complicated and if you have someone looking out for pitfalls, you can rest assured that things will go smoothly. However, there can always be unexpected problems, and this is where my network of vendors comes in handy. Instead of calling some 800 number from a website and getting a frustrating run around causing even more delays, I can have problems solved by a vendor or product rep the same day.
Finally, as a result of price increases, the total cost of a remodel has skyrocketed but once I see a space and can judge how much will be needed given a client’s scope of service, I can give homeowners a much better idea of a final cost. Having said that, it is always wise to keep a reserve for unforeseen issues like dry rot or mold mitigation…you never know what is lurking in the walls until they are opened up and examined.
I act as your advocate and guide, presenting you with products and materials you may not have seen before, and preventing mistakes that can cost time and money. It is worth it to hire an interior designer to preserve your money, time, and sanity.
Starting your remodel without a physical plan
Whether you want to remodel your home or a room within it, especially a kitchen or bathroom where every inch of space matters, you need a clear plan of action: what will be remodeled, what will change or be replaced and what will stay (if anything), and where will it all go? Often a bathroom’s footprint cannot change due to plumbing line locations, but you should still review any item you are installing. Will your new vanity fit the old spot? Is it higher? Is it a wall mounted vanity or will it sit on the floor? Do you want a wall mounted or deck mounted faucet? Your contractor will want to know these things so she or he can make sure to include the work in the quote, but also plan for whatever extra work those decisions might entail: for example a floating vanity requires extra wood reinforcements in the wall and a wall mounted faucet requires in-wall plumbing. As you can imagine, a kitchen can be much more complicated simply because it features more cabinetry and appliances. Working without a plan set for your contractor to refer to while installing elements in any space can result in costly errors.
Primary Bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Primary Bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Primary Bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Kitchen design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Kitchen design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Kitchen design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Primary Suite Bathroom/Closet design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Primary Suite Bathroom/Closet design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Primary Suite Bathroom/Closet design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Remodels in the real world are not like the remodel shows you see on home and garden television shows. A kitchen or bathroom cannot be ripped down to the studs, installed, and completed in a week or two. Renovation work is a complicated process in which your contractor needs to “stack the subs” or in lay terms, hire the correct professionals for each phase of work when they are needed. Your work will most likely require not only your contractor but also a plumber, an electrician, a tile setter, a sheet rocker, a plasterer, a painter, and in the case of a bathroom, a glazier for the shower enclosure. All these experts are booked in turns as each aspect of the installation comes up. I have often heard potential clients say they need the bathroom done in two or three weeks in time for some special event, a request which is totally unrealistic. Even before the pandemic, it took some time for materials to be ordered, shipped, and delivered. We have still not completely recovered from the pandemic and lead times remain a little long for some materials and furnishings.
Family Room/Kitchen design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Underestimating The Cost Of Your Remodel
This one derails homeowners the most. Before the pandemic, a remodel was always a pricey exercise. But since then, the cost of materials has skyrocketed, the cost of transportation and delivery has skyrocketed, and as the cost of living has increased so has the cost of labor. What used to seem like a nice-sized savings to pay for a bathroom, kitchen, or partial or whole house remodel is no longer sufficient. But one thing has not changed and that is that remodels are always more expensive than you think they should or will be.
Custom-built condo design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Custom-built condo design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Custom-built condo design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Custom-built condo design by Fiorito Interior Design |
The best way to do avoid these three mistakes is, of course, to hire a professional who can guide you through all the steps and even create a paper plan for the contractor and sub-contractors to see and use as a road map for what will be done, and how it will be installed. One of the valuable features of planning ahead is being able to spot problems and issues before they arise and plotting it out on paper is essential, and a good way to spot potential sticking points like, for example, not enough room between a vanity and a door for moulding. A set of renderings that show a plan view and elevations are useful for everyone to visualize what the new space will look like. I work in a 3D program to illustrate the concept of the space and give clients an idea of what the proposed space will feel like.
Kitchen ceiling treatment mirrors the shape of the island by Fiorito Interior Design |
I also have clients approve the final design for the space(s), then have all elements purchased from my network of vendors and, if possible, on site before work begins (this always makes contractors very happy). Design is a process and should be navigated judiciously. Lead times can be complicated and if you have someone looking out for pitfalls, you can rest assured that things will go smoothly. However, there can always be unexpected problems, and this is where my network of vendors comes in handy. Instead of calling some 800 number from a website and getting a frustrating run around causing even more delays, I can have problems solved by a vendor or product rep the same day.
Luxury bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Finally, as a result of price increases, the total cost of a remodel has skyrocketed but once I see a space and can judge how much will be needed given a client’s scope of service, I can give homeowners a much better idea of a final cost. Having said that, it is always wise to keep a reserve for unforeseen issues like dry rot or mold mitigation…you never know what is lurking in the walls until they are opened up and examined.
Exotic home theatre design by Fiorito Interior Design |
I act as your advocate and guide, presenting you with products and materials you may not have seen before, and preventing mistakes that can cost time and money. It is worth it to hire an interior designer to preserve your money, time, and sanity.
Primary bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Bathroom design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Powder room design by Fiorito Interior Design |
Happy designing!
Monday, February 26, 2024
New Patterns From Porter Teleo!
I have been enchanted by the glorious handmade, handpainted wallcoverings made by Porter Teleo for many years now. And they have introduced three new patterns that are just as gorgeous as their classics.
Emergence is a pattern of soft water lily leaves. Porter Teleo describes it: "This pattern draws inspiration from the profound symbolism of water lilies in Buddhism and Hinduism, where they represent spiritual rebirth. The large-scale botanical subjects highlight the fascinating structural beauty of lily pads that allows their leaves to float gracefully on water, presenting a unique blend of abstraction and mathematical precision."
In four colorways: Platinum, Argent, Lilac, and Charcoal.
Next is an origami-like pattern called Kimono. "The juxtaposition of the natural, mottled backgrounds and the bright, metallic linework creates a crisp, modern all-over pattern. This striking contrast pays homage to the meticulous craftsmanship of kimonos, celebrating the thoughtful selection of materials for their distinct qualities."
In four colorways: Copper, Gold, Pale, and Pewter.
I am most excited about Mariposa, inspired by the line work found on the wings of butterflies. "MARIPOSA’s muralistic composition is an exaggerated and zoomed-in interpretation of the beauty found all around us in nature." I am in love with the shapes of this one.
In four colorways: Argent, Bleu Pale, Mauve, and Verdatre.
If you love the exquisite products from Porter Teleo like I do, give me a call. I am sure we can find a wall for one of these beauties!
Happy designing!
Emergence is a pattern of soft water lily leaves. Porter Teleo describes it: "This pattern draws inspiration from the profound symbolism of water lilies in Buddhism and Hinduism, where they represent spiritual rebirth. The large-scale botanical subjects highlight the fascinating structural beauty of lily pads that allows their leaves to float gracefully on water, presenting a unique blend of abstraction and mathematical precision."
In four colorways: Platinum, Argent, Lilac, and Charcoal.
Emergence in Platinum installation |
Emergence in Platinum detail |
Emergence in Argent installation |
Emergence in Argent detail |
Emergence in Lilac installation |
Emergence in Lilac detail |
Emergence in Charcoal installation |
Emergence in Charcoal detail |
Next is an origami-like pattern called Kimono. "The juxtaposition of the natural, mottled backgrounds and the bright, metallic linework creates a crisp, modern all-over pattern. This striking contrast pays homage to the meticulous craftsmanship of kimonos, celebrating the thoughtful selection of materials for their distinct qualities."
In four colorways: Copper, Gold, Pale, and Pewter.
Kimono in Copper installation |
Kimono in Copper detail |
Kimono in Gold installation |
Kimono in Gold detail |
Kimono in Pale installation |
Kimono in Pale detail |
Kimono in Pewter installation |
Kimono in Pewter detail |
I am most excited about Mariposa, inspired by the line work found on the wings of butterflies. "MARIPOSA’s muralistic composition is an exaggerated and zoomed-in interpretation of the beauty found all around us in nature." I am in love with the shapes of this one.
In four colorways: Argent, Bleu Pale, Mauve, and Verdatre.
Mariposa in Argent installation |
Mariposa in Argent detail |
Mariposa in Bleu Pale installation |
Mariposa in Bleu Pale detail |
Mariposa in Mauve installation |
Mariposa in Mauve detail |
Mariposa in Verdatre installation |
Mariposa in Verdatre detail |
If you love the exquisite products from Porter Teleo like I do, give me a call. I am sure we can find a wall for one of these beauties!
Happy designing!
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