ali mode

Elliott Puckette Print

2009-09-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. My new job has taken over my life, but I'm so excited to share what I've been working on with all of you soon! In the midst of all my craziness, Ben surprised me the other night with a "just because" gift, which is by far my favorite kind of gift. We've been together for so long, we often just skip the whole Valentine's Day and anniversary gift exchange, and instead give each other something increasingly precious and rare - time together. But let's face it, who doesn't love a present now and again? He surprised me with my very own Elliott Puckette print, which I'd spied in September's VOGUE and desperately wanted, but never would have purchased for myself. If there are any other Elliott Puckette fans out there (or boyfriends of an EP fan), check out this great offer at the Condé Nast Store.

Sweet Bella

2009-09-10T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ever since the lovely Susan Hable of Hable Construction turned me on to Sweet Bella, their booth at the NY Gift Show has been one of my favorites. For the longest time they didn't have a website or a catalog, making it very hard to source them for stories, but that's all changed. Not only is their website charming and completely indicative of the company's aesthetic, their wonderful selection of unique items are now available for perusing. How great are these old-school telephones from the British General Post Office!! Below are a few more of their offerings that I'll be attempting to work into my fall budget.

The New Yorker: Kelly Wearstler

2009-09-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

Be sure to pick up the newest issue of The New Yorker for a profile of Kelly Wearstler, entitled "Lady of the House." There are a few juicy revelations (yes, Playboy is mentioned, but who among us didn't already know about that little tidbit) including the secret nickname other designers have bestowed upon Michael Smith - "Granny Smith." Kelly's upcoming book HUE is also mentioned, and here's a sneak peak, courtesy of Amazon.

MUJI

2009-09-04T08:06:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for an alternative to the now somewhat ubiquitous West Elm Parsons Desk, check out the new MUJI manufactured by THONET collection of furniture. As always, MUJI manages to pack tons of style into their unbranded brand of housewares, this time using a mix of tubular steel and beech bentwood. This workstation makes me want to create some self-imposed homework assignment in honor of fall, and a set of these chairs would look amazing around a dining room table. I'm also loving their light grey desk chair, which comes in just under $200.

I really can't mention MUJI without telling you about my absolute favorite MUJI discovery - their "My" Linen Napkins. For $21.75, you get two gorgeous, natural linen dinner napkins, red embroidery thread, and instructions for how to embroider every letter in the alphabet, as well as a few choice designs. It's become my go-to thank you gift for crafty friends. You could also buy two packs, embroider a loved one's initials on the corner of all four napkins, and present it as a homemade, personalized gift. How wouldn't love that?! The natural linen and red together just ooze French charm. If you start now, you could have a set for all your family and friends finished in time for Christmas.

MET Treasure Trove

2009-09-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

The Shaker Room

A few weeks ago I met a friend at the Met to see the new American Wing, which as it turns out is far too vast for a single visit. All the period rooms were spectacular, and a few of the furniture pieces were screaming for a modern day knockoff. I particularly loved the quiet simplicity of the Shaker room. Although I'm generally not a huge fan of Shaker style furniture, the carefully considered lines of every piece were a real testament to the craftsmanship that went into making them.

The most exciting moment of the day however was the discovery of the Met's decorative arts archive, a veritable treasure trove of inspiration. Row after row of furniture, lighting, tableware, decorative pieces, and much more, all displayed Moss-style, in huge glass display cases. Unfortunately most of the items didn't have labels explaining their provenance, but it was thrilling none the less. The scope and breadth of this collection is definitely worth braving the crowds to see, and whatever you do, don't forget your camera.

And now....the treasure trove!

Marbleizing

2009-08-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

It all began with an episode of The Martha Stewart Show. Then, a visit to John Derian's amazing booth at the recent NY Gift Show took it right over the edge. I'm officially obsessed with marbleizing. I even felt compelled to dig up the feature on Nick Olsen's place in a back issue of Domino, to once again marvel at the genius behind his idea to cover an IKEA coffee table in marbleized paper from Paper Mojo. Something about this age-old technique feels really fresh to me right now, with just the right touch of glamour.

One viewing of the Martha segment and I promise, you too will be hooked. There are definitely some marbleized magazine caddies in my near future.

Not only are these John Derian goblets gorgeous on the outside, but the inside was done in a DIFFERENT marbleized pattern!

These papers are just a taste of the gorgeousness they create during the Martha segment.

Images: Domino, November 2006, Paul Costello; marthastewart.com

IKEA Rugs

2009-08-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

Speaking of rugs, it looks like IKEA has borrowed a page from the Madeline Weinrib playbook:

IKEA Stockholm Rug, $179

IKEA PS Stuga Rug, $299

With a little bit of Oscar and Missoni thrown in the mix...

Jorun Rug, $179

Gedser Rug, $249

Elson & Co.

2009-08-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

Fashion Underfoot II - Thakoon

Elson & Company, one of my all-time favorite rug companies, has launched a new Fashion Underfoot II collection, and the designs are unbelievably beautiful. With all the big names out there like The Rug Company, Safavieh, and the like, Elso & Co. always seems to coast somewhat under the radar. However, their designs, and the creative talent they work with, are both top notch. One of their best know collaborations is with Oscar de la Renta, but they've also done collections with Fabien Baron, Kathryn Ireland, Hable Construction, and Lulu DK. The owner, Diane Elson Bankoff, also happens to be one of the loveliest people I've ever worked with. Just wanted to share some of the new collection, along with a few of my favorite oldie but goodies from Oscar.

Fashion Underfoot II - Marchesa

Fashion Underfoot II - Peter Som

Fashion Underfoot II - Oscar de la Renta

Fashion Underfoot II - Tory Burch

Fashion Underfoot II - Cynthia Rowley

Fashion Underfoot - Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta Durrie Collection - Sevila

Inspiration: Australian Gourmet Traveller

2009-08-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

I really love to cook, but what I'm finding I love almost as much is food photography. What was once a huge thorn in my side (long story) has now become a total obsession. Some of my favorite photographs are from the website of Australian Gourmet Traveller. Not only are the recipes great, but the images are so lush and tactile, it's enough to make you start salivating. Here's a little taste of some of the gorgeous photography you'll find on their site, but believe me, there's plenty more where these came from. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Roberta Roller Rabbit

2009-08-06T07:24:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of posts lately. I just started at a new job and am still trying to work my daily routine. Looks like the globetrotting Roberta Freymann of Roberta Roller Rabbit has finally made her wonderful prints available to online shoppers. The tunics are perfect as beach cover-ups that can easily take you from the sand to dinner (I'm thinking a belt and some jewelry would do the trick) and the price for her printed pillows is incredibly reasonable at a mere $40. Not to mention her great tablecloths - I'm thinking I might just need one of those for my next summer dinner party. Happy shopping!

VOGUE Living Australia

2009-08-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to start off the week with these beautiful images from the May/June issue of Australian VOGUE Living . The issue is guest edited by Catherine Martin, the Academy Award-winning set and costume designer, and frequent collaborator of husband, director Baz Lurhman. The entire issue is amazing, but one of my favorite stories was the home of Gael Boglione and her husband Francesco, located on the outskirts of London. The couple describes how they paired down the swags of fabric that were almost suffocating the house, and cleared out the cluttered rooms filled with long forgotten antiques. They also started a garden center next door, which includes a restaurant serving up seasonal dishes. It's just so rare to see a storied home done with such elegant simplicity, and I can't get over the depth and beauty of their limewashed walls. Another highlight for me was the couple's incredible art collection with works by Lucien Freud, Damien Hirst, and Gary Hume. For anyone who's ever been afraid to mix contemporary pieces with antiques and vintage finds, I hope this home inspires you to give it a shot. Happy Monday everyone!

Paperless Post

2009-07-30T06:10:00.000-07:00

I received my first invite via Paperless Post the other day and I'm obsessed! Evites are so a thing of the past. Don't get me wrong - for a small party I'd still opt for actual paper and pen, but for a larger soiree these are definitely the way to go. It's free to become a member and it will run you around $5.00 to send 60 invites. The paper styles and motifs they offer are just so chic and I love how they've managed to simulate the experience of opening an envelope to reveal the invite within. All the thrill, none of the mess.

Photos: Paperless Post / style.com

Pronounce It Right

2009-07-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

We've all been there - you read about someone or something interesting and find the conversation at a subsequent cocktail party turning to that exact subject, but...you have absolutely no idea how to pronounce it correctly. You're dying to put your two cents in, but, for fear of looking like an idiot, you remain silent. Well, Pronounce It Right has come to the rescue. Not only can you search within categories such as Food, Art/Photography/Architecture, Literature/Poetry, and Politics (hello Mahmoud Ahmadinejad), there's also a search box for you to type in that pesky name you were dying to bust out. For all you design lovers who still aren't sure how to pronounce the name of those gorgeous Thonet chairs, check it out. Trust me, this one is a shocker.

Robert Longo

2009-07-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

Robert Longo's studio, The Selby

We all feel moved by works of art for different reasons, but having the chance to peak inside an artist's studio can really transform the relationship you have with their work. It's a reminder that the pieces you love don't just magically appear on the gallery wall. They are the slow, meditative work of a pair of hands, masterfully employing a medium to create something beautiful out of what was previously just a bunch of art supplies. For me, it's a wonderful reminder that art isn't something apart and untouchable, but something that is brought to life through labor and creativity, just like you or I might bring to life a recipe or a room.

The work of Robert Longo always reminds me of this through the sheer simplicity of materials: charcoal on paper. Using only what those of you who have ever taken an art class know to be the most elemental of building blocks, he creates images so striking, they stay with you long after you've looked away. Some of Longo's work was featured in the first issue of Dossier, and his work is currently on view as part of The Pictures Generation, 1974-1984 show at The Met. Best of all, The Selby recently shot Longo's studio here in NYC. I'm off to grab a pad of paper and some charcoal and get to work. Happy Friday!

Portrait of the artist, The Selby

Works in progress, The Selby

The Selby

Robert Longo, Untitled (Spanish Blood, Lion's Gate), 2000

Robert Longo, Untitled (Exterior Apartment Door with Nameplate and Peephole, 1938), 2000

Robert Longo, Untitled (Shark 5), 2007

Robert Longo, Untitled (Chair in Sunlight, Sitting Room, 1938), 2000

Robert Longo, Untitled (Cindy), 1981

Robert Longo, Studio Installation View - September, 2005

Robert Longo, Studio Installation View - September, 2008

Recipe: Pizza Party

2009-07-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

When I awoke from my post-red-eye haze on Tuesday, I was delighted to find tons of homemade pizza waiting for me in the refrigerator - it seems Ben went pizza crazy while I was out of town. One of Ben and my signature parties is the pizza party, and I think all our friends and family have taken part at one point or another. They're always very casual and fun, not to mention a great way to involve guests in the cooking process. Measurements and proportions for the toppings are very forgiving and really just depend on how loaded you like your pies. However, the one thing you do need is a great tomato sauce to act as a base. Whether you make your own crust, or buy one of the surprisingly good pre-made pizza crusts from Whole Foods, a good sauce can make all the difference. It's official - Ben's super duper secret sauce is out of the vault and hitting the streets.

Tomato Sauce (makes enough for 5-6 pizzas)

1 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon dried basil*

1 teaspoon dried thyme*

1 teaspoon fennel seeds*

1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes

1 teaspoon honey (or 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar)

salt and pepper to taste

*you can substitute 1 tablespoon of Herbes de Provence for the basil, thyme, and fennel seeds

Combine the tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried herbs, fennel seeds, chili flakes, and honey in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, turn the heat to low and let the mixture slowly bubble until it thickens into a sauce (about 25-30 minutes). Stir occasionally. Taste for seasoning.

With this sauce as a base, you can make all kinds of pizzas. Every oven is a little different, but most of them will cook for about 9 minutes on a pizza stone in a 450 degree oven. If you don't have a pizza stone, just use the back of a large sheet pan. Here are a few of my pizza party favorites, and they all start with the tomato sauce as a base.

1. Add a generous layer of grated mozzarella cheese and fresh basil, ripped into pieces, for a classic pizza margherita.

2. Layer strips of black forest ham over the sauce and sprinkle with grated emmenthaler and grated mozzarella. Once it comes out of the oven, finish it with big dollops of basil pesto (pictured above).

3. Combine prosciutto and arugula and top with grated fontina cheese.

4. Layer grated mozzarella with red onion, thinly sliced summer squash, corn, crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkling of red chili flakes. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.

5. Sprinkle a thin layer of grated mozzarella on top of the tomato sauce, then add a layer of sauteed leeks, shrimp, corn, and crumbled feta. Finish it off with a little lemon juice, fresh parsley and mint.

6. Sauté broccoli rabe in olive oil and a couple tablespoons of water. Cook with a cover on for a few minutes until the stocks are tender, then add one minced garlic clove, a pinch of red chili flakes, and a handful of pine nuts and cook uncovered for a couple minutes until the water has evaporated. Pour the mixture over the tomato sauce and sprinkle on some grated mozzarella.

Bachelor Pad

2009-07-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

I spent the last few days with my family in California and while I was there, I stopped in to see my little brother's new loft in Santa Monica. Okay, he's not that little at twenty-six, but he'll always be little to me. This is his first real adult apartment (post-grad apartment complexes don't count), and I must say he hit the real estate jackpot. His place is five blocks from the beach, across the street from Whole Foods, and surrounded by tons of great restaurants and shopping. Then there's the light, soaring ceilings, and great spiral staircase. My brother happens to be one of the most generous, thoughtful, kind, all-around adorable people I know, and I'm determined to create a fabulous bachelor pad that he'll love coming home to after a long day. Here are a few "before" pics.

One of my favorite bachelor pads is the West Hollywood loft of Will Kopelman, featured in the May 2007 issue of ELLE Decor.

I think monogrammed hand towels are a must!

Images: ELLE Decor, May 2007, Simon Upton

The NYC home of formerly single John Dempsey is also a great source of inspiration. I can't wait to get to work!

Images: ELLE Decor, October 2004, William Waldron

Haus Interior / Fog Linen Work

2009-07-17T04:06:00.000-07:00

I've had Fog Linen Work on my list of companies to blog about for some time, but had yet to find a place in Manhattan that carried their charming checkered napkins, trays, and candles. Then yesterday, while strolling down Elizabeth Street with my bag of groceries from Whole Foods, I passed by Haus Interior. This three-week-old boutique is owned by Nina Freudenberger, a former employee of the design firm Costas Kondylis, and the collection of well-edited merchandise really blew me away. Besides the lovely Fog Linen Work items, there were trays and pitchers by Airedelsur, Roost accessories, Tonale dinnerware by David Chipperfield for Alessi, and tons of gorgeous natural materials like bone caviar spoons and wood salad servers. Here are some of the FLW items I spied during my visit:

Pearl River: Home Floor

2009-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I stopped into Pearl River the other day and wandered up to the home floor on the 2nd level, somewhere I hadn't been in ages. I'd forgotten what great deals they have up there - garden seats, wooden stools, lanterns, vases, and every size, shape, and color of lacquer tray imaginable, all at bargain basement prices. I'm especially loving this beautiful wooden salad bowl, priced at a mere $45. If you're in the neighborhood, it's definitely worth braving the Soho madness for a quick visit. Chances are, you won't leave empty handed. If you're not in NYC, you can join in the fun by checking out the Pearl River website.

Recipe: Veggie Peanut Pasta

2009-07-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

Continuing the theme of summer dishes that pack up well for picnics, I wanted to share one of my all-time favorite dishes. I seriously could have this for lunch, dinner, and lunch the next day (in fact, I probably have done that at some point), it's that good. In the interest of time, it does include a store bought peanut sauce, but you could of course make your own. I happened to do this veggie style, but it's great with chicken or shrimp as well. It's quick, it's easy, there is minimal cooking involved, and you can switch up the pasta and veggies to make it your own. Best of all, the leftovers just get better and better.

Veggie Peanut Pasta

1 lb. dried linguine
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 red pepper, thinly julienned
1 yellow pepper, thinly julienned
1 carrot, thinly julienned
1 cucumber, seeded and julienned
6 radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced (these are easy to do on a mandolin if you have one)
1 cup of loose cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
1/2 lime, juiced
10 oz. peanut sauce (I used San-J Thai Peanut Sauce)
salt and pepper

Set a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. While the water is coming up to a boil, slice the onion, red pepper, yellow pepper, carrot, and cucumber into thin strips. Cut each radish in half and thinly slice. If your cilantro looks a little dirty, give it a quick rinse, pat the leaves dry, and run your knife through the bunch until well chopped. Roughly chop the peanuts and set aside. When your pot of water is boiling, add a tablespoon of salt and cook the linguine according to the directions on the box until al dente, then drain. Pour the cooked pasta into a large bowl and immediately toss with the peanut sauce. Add in all the vegetables, cilantro, peanuts, and the juice of half a lime and toss it all together. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or cold.

Cleveland Art

2009-07-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a little touch of old to balance out all the Pottery Barn newness in your home, check out Cleveland Art. When it comes to salvage and industrial pieces, they're the real deal, getting bits and parts from defunct factories in the country's Rust Belt, and re-imagining them as works stations, tables, chairs, and lighting. The design studio is located in Ohio, but they recently opened an LA outpost for all you lucky Angelenos. If you have a specific type of piece in mind that you know would be perfect for that unloved corner of your living room, give them a call and they'll happily be on the lookout, as their stock changes daily. For all you New Yorkers, their pieces are also available here in NYC at Intérieurs in Tribeca. Just think of all the industrial waste you're sparing our landfills - and they're purty too!

Crate & Barrel Cuties

2009-07-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

I love when large retailers really get it right. Here are a few of the newest offerings from Crate & Barrel that caught my eye.

Walnut and white lacquer together are just so right, giving this piece a simple Scandinavian-style vibe.

Delano Sideboard, $399

I'm always a sucker for industrial chic, and I love that a quick spin adjusts the seat height.

Turner Barstool, $199

All that oak veneer grain mixed with the clean lines say Danish modern to me.

Trestle Sideboard, $499

"My Life in France" by Julia Child and Alex Prud'homme

2009-07-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post about this book for some time, and the impending release of the movie Julie & Julia gave me just the reminder I needed. After reading this, you will absolutely fall in love with the curious, witty, spirited, trailblazer that was Julia Child. You'll also want to move to Paris immediately. I found it so inspiring that the woman we all know as the stateside doyenne of French cuisine didn't learn to cook until she was in her mid thirties. The book is filled with charming observations and moments of introspection like this one:

"Upon reflection, I decided I had three main weaknesses: I was confused (evidenced by a lack of facts, an inability to coordinate my thoughts, and an inability to verbalize my ideas); I had a lack of confidence, which caused me to back down from forcefully stated positions; and I was overly emotional at the expense of careful, "scientific" thought. I was thirty-seven years old and still discovering who I was."

It's a great summer read that you'll want to pick up again come fall.

Recipe: Panzanella with Smoked Mozzarella

2009-07-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for dishes that are easy to make and travel well, say for a picnic in the park, then this recipe is perfect for you. I love how simple and delicious a bunch of raw veggies can be. It's really worth the extra effort to grill the bread before cutting it into cubes for that nice bit of smoky flavor. This one is a veggie free for all, so if you love red pepper, add a couple, if you like more cucumber, go crazy. I would however caution against adding a ton of raw red onion, or if you do, make sure to bring some breath mints. Come on, you know it's true. It's a summer bread salad with cheese! What's not to love?

Panzanella with Smoked Mozzarella

5 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 medium red onion, diced

1 medium cucumber, seeded and diced

4 oz. smoked mozzarella, cut into small cubes

1/4 cup of basil leaves, torn or chopped

5 thick slices country bread

dressing:

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon sherry vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

To grill the bread, heat up your grill pan over a medium-high heat. Drizzle each side of the bread slices with a little extra-virgin olive oil and lightly season with salt and pepper. Place the slices on the grill pan and allow to cook until they develop nice grill marks on each side. Set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, red pepper, red onion, cucumber and smoked mozzarella. When the bread is cool, cut the slices into bite-size cubes and add to the bowl with the vegetables. In a separate bowl, whisk together the garlic, red wine vinegar, sherry vinegar, lemon juice, and mustard. Salt and pepper to taste. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, whisking continuously. Pour about three quarters of the dressing over the bread cubes and vegetables and toss to combine. Add the chopped basil and toss again to combine. If you like your panzanella well dressed, add the the remainder of the dressing. Serve and enjoy.

Inspiration: NYPL

2009-07-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

I seriously doubt I'll ever opt for a Kindle over holding an actual book, and while I think it's interesting that Google is slowly scanning every book ever written to make it available to view online, I'll never forsake the tactile pleasure of turning a page. I can however get behind one benefit of the digital age - inspiring imagery that is only a click away. One amazing, and under the radar source for images online is the New York Public Library. Their Digital Gallery holds over 685,000 images, pulled from the library's enormous collection and includes illuminated manuscripts, historical maps, vintage posters, rare prints, photographs, and oh so much more. If you happen to find an image you can't live without, you can crop and buy prints, complete with mat and frame, directly from the site, knowing your hard earned money is going to help fund the NYPL. Type in a search word and away you go on a journey through history, courtesy of our local public library. Sure beats the Dewey Decimal System.

Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein on the Terrace at Bilignin, June 13, 1934

Photo by Carl Van Vechten

The Chinese Chippendale room at Badminton House, ca. 1755

Great Blue Heron (1872)

"The Pageant of America" collection, Pewter Spoons

Ladies' dress shoes of the nineteenth century by T.Watson Greig (1900)

Top Image: Drawing room chairs with stuffed backs (184-?) by Thomas King, furniture pattern designer

Outdoor Decor

2009-07-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine just purchased an apartment here in NYC and has graciously asked me to help her design her new home (more on that later). The apartment includes the fabulous outdoor space pictured above, half of which is a lovely garden with tons of flowers and fresh herbs. We're going to transform this space into an outdoor oasis in which she'd like a dining area that can seat 6-8 and a place to lounge and read. The possibilities are endless! We are, of course, working with a budget, so that helps narrow things down a bit. I was flipping through my trusty back issues of Domino for inspiration and wanted to share a few of my favorite outdoor spaces from my favorite magazine. Don't worry, there will definitely be an After picture to go with the Before shot above.

Domino, May 2008, Miguel Flores-Vianna

Domino, May 2007, Melanie Acevedo

Domino, May 2007, Jack Coble

Domino, April 2008, Paul Costello

Domino, April 2006, Melanie Acevedo

Domino, June/July 2008, David Tsay

Domino, June/July 2008, Melanie Acevedo

Domino, May 2006, Paul Costello

On a side note, the chair above is on sale at Pier 1 Imports for $49.98 and looks nearly identical to the chairs in my last outdoor inspiration image. It's very Marston & Langinger for a fraction of the price. Not really my friends style but I've always had a personal obsession with wirework outdoor furniture.

Great Deal!

2009-06-25T06:34:00.000-07:00

This is an amazing deal and I'm dying for someone to take advantage of it. This five-arm, blown glass chandelier has been on sale via Pottery Barn for ages and is available for a mere $199. That's crazy cheap for a piece this size! All you would need is a new set of candle covers (that silver has got to go), which I've conveniently located for you here. I swear I don't work for Pottery Barn, I just want to live vicariously through one of my lovely blog readers. I would be on this in a second if my apartment didn't happen to have ugly popcorn ceilings with no hardwiring. My former editor, the incomparable Dara Caponigro, had a similar piece in her bedroom that was featured in the last issue of Domino. If you do end up buying this beauty, will you please, please email me pictures!!

Image: Domino, March 2009, Melanie Acevedo

Inspiration: Maryam Nassir Zadeh

2009-06-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for some style inspiration (when am I not!), check out the profile of stylist and Lower East Side store owner Maryam Nassir Zadeh on Refinery29. Her bold choices and ridiculous accessories - I'd kill for that bracelet - say it all, and her namesake store carries the likes of Rachel Comey, Acne, and Isabel Marant. As a total aside, I saw Isabel Marant a couple of weeks ago at Bird in Brooklyn and almost died. She was wearing her amazing slouchy flat boots and was rocking a simple grey t-shirt and shorts - uber-French, uber-chic!

Youssou N'Dour & Food, Inc.

2009-06-22T07:10:00.000-07:00

I saw two amazing documentaries this weekend that everyone MUST go see. The first is Youssou N'Dour: I Bring What I Love, a documentary about the Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour and the message of love and tolerance that he puts forth through his powerful music. Combining the breathtaking beauty of Senegal (some of the opening shots were so gorgeous I couldn't breath) and the stirring music of an artist like N'Dour, the film will leave you feeling inspired. The filmmaker Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, was at our screening, and hearing her talk about her subject and the larger purpose in making the film, you knew that you had just witnessed a true labor of love.

The second documentary, Food, Inc., is a look at our current food system, and explores the reasons behind why a bag of chips is cheaper than a head of broccoli at the supermarket. I'm so thankful to Ben for showing me years ago why it's important to buy seasonal, organic, local food, and to shop at farmer's markets whenever possible, and this film will do the same for you. We as consumers have so much power to effect change, and the opportunity to make our voices heard presents itself daily through the food we buy and the choices we make.

Topshop Bicycle Club

2009-06-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Summer in New York can be pretty brutal with the heat and humidity, but it brings with it tons of great freebies that more than make up for the weather. From Shakespeare in the Park, to outdoor movies and concerts, it's a deal lover's paradise, and this freebie is just too funny not to mention. Starting tomorrow, Topshop in NYC will be offering free rentals of blue beach cruisers at the store, complete with helmet, lock, and a map of destinations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. You can rent for anywhere from an hour to nine hours. Way to get into the summer spirit! Ergo, I thought I'd post some of my favorite "chic girls on bikes" from The Sartorialist and Garance Doré. Happy Friday!

Thornwillow Stationary Bicycle engraved notecards, $35 / 10 cards and tissue lined envelopes

Wald 198GB Multi-Fit Bike Basket, $23, REI

Thornwillow Stationary

2009-06-17T07:48:00.000-07:00

If you're as addicted to beautiful stationary as I am, you're probably still mourning the loss of Mrs. John L. Strong. Rather than resorting to rationing your last few thank you notes, check out Thornwillow Fine Stationary & Books. Their products are simple and lovely, the quality is impeccable, and the initial cards above would make a great alternative to personalized correspondence cards. Here are a few of their offerings that caught my eye:

Sedan, $35 / 10 letterpress cards and tissue lined envelopes

Lattice Border, $35 / 10 letterpress cards and tissue lined envelopes

Olive Branch book plate, $28 / 16 engraved book plates

Advocate Fill-in Invitations, $35 / 10 engraved flat cards and tissue lined envelopes

Paste Paper Notepads, $12.50 each

Sea Ranch, CA

2009-06-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

I spent last week at one of the most idyllic and breathtaking destinations in California - Sea Ranch. I love absolutely everything about this place, from the ideals that inspired its inception, to the architectural talent on display, to the fact that there is very limited internet access and no cell phone reception (hence my lack of posts). A New York Times travel story last year described it as "Utopia by the Sea" and so it is. My favorite quote from that article was, "it is possible at once to lose and to find yourself on a path, following it past tumbledown picket fences to a driftwood throne on a secluded beach." The Sea Ranch is often studied in architectural courses as an example of the philosophy of "living lightly on the land", and the house where we stayed was definitely a marvel of design. I wanted to share a little of my pictorial travel journal. Enjoy!

Here's our house! There are long window seats below each of the large windows looking out at the ocean. Perfect for afternoon reading.

The architect created these wonderful wings, so the house felt like it had so many "spaces" to inhabit, including this lovely courtyard.

This small building housed the sauna and hot tub, complete with sliding windows that opened to allow for star gazing.

This is a view of the meadow from our front porch. Gorgeous!!

Recipe: Carrot Cake Cupcakes

2009-06-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Carrot cake is definitely my favorite type of cake, but I find a whole Pyrex of it sitting around our apartment gets a little dangerous (just a tiny bit more won't hurt, right?). Cupcakes are a much safer way to go, and this recipe is from How To Be A Domestic Goddess, by the lovely Nigella Lawson. I'm obsessed with her cooking show because she so clearly loves food, and relishes in the joy of living, with a real understanding of the ways in which one can bring so much pleasure to the other.

Carrot Cake Cupcakes

1/2 cup light brown sugar

3/4 cup sunflower oil

2 large eggs

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

pinch of salt

zest of 1/2 lemon

zest of 1/2 orange

2 medium carrots, grated

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

12 paper baking cups

icing:

1/2 cup cream cheese

1 2/3 cups confectioners' sugar

1-2 teaspoons lemon juice

1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Preheat the oven to 400℉. Beat the sugar and oil together, then add the eggs one at a time. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and zests, then fold in the grated carrot and walnuts. Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin cups and bake for 20 minutes. Cool on a rack while you get on with the icing.

Beat the cream cheese in a bowl till smooth and softened somewhat, and then beat in the confectioners' sugar. Squeeze in the lemon juice to taste. When the cupcakes are cool, smear the icing on top and sprinkle with the chopped walnuts and little bit of the grated carrot. Makes 12 cupcakes.

Picassos & Portals

2009-06-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

I spent the whole day running around the city in the rain yesterday, and one of the stops on my list was the Picasso: Mosqueteros exhibit at the Gagosian Gallery. If you're in New York and you haven't seen it yet, get your booty over there now because today is the last day to see this incredible show. As I was walking east down 21st Street from the Gagosian, I was completely taken in by the loveliness of those few blocks. It's one of those rare areas where the bounty of trees and the beauty of each residence, with their steep staircases leading up to grand double doors, makes you forget that you're in the middle of Manhattan. Some of the doorways were so charming I had to snap a picture (if you happened to see a young woman randomly taking a picture of your apartment on 21st yesterday it was probably me). It's admittedly random to pair Picassos and front doors, but hey, that was my day - and it was a great one.

I love this red lacquer door with the funky horseshoe crab door knocker.

So random, but so great! Get your own horseshoe crab knocker here.

Blackout Storage

2009-06-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

In my time cruising around on The Selby, I also came across the image above. I love the idea of doing monochromatic storage in black rather than the usual punchy colors. It looks so much more interesting, as if each box were filled with original Irving Penn chromes instead of the boring bills that are probably inside. The photo above is actually from the home of the photographer Paola Kudacki. This is a classic photographer way of storing film and a great idea for the rest of us to steal. As luck would have it, IKEA just introduced a bunch of black boxes for next to nothing, so you can create your own wall of storage without spending a ton of cash. I promise, everyone who comes over will be wondering what sorts of fascinating goodies are hidden inside.

KASSETT Magazine Box with Lid, $14.99/ 2 pack, IKEA

KASSETT Clothes Box with Lid, $9.99, IKEA

KASSETT Media Box with Lid, $9.99, IKEA

Recipe: Farro with Shrimp and Veggies

2009-06-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

I love cooking with farro because it acts as a great base to which you can add all your favorite ingredients. It's also a whole grain and really good for you - it is after all bathing suit season. I came up with this recipe the other night in an attempt to use things we already had in our kitchen (farro, frozen shrimp, arugula, corn, garlic), thus doing as little grocery shopping as possible (red onion, leeks, fennel, cherry tomatoes, red pepper). The key is really the vinaigrette, since the hot farro just soaks up all the flavor of the balsamic vinegar and lemon, so feel free to add or omit any of the veggies and make it your own. I'm all about cooking in large quantities these days (hello leftovers!), and this makes 6-8 servings, perfect for a summer picnic with friends.

Farro with Shrimp and Veggies

2 cups farro

1/4 cup olive oil

2 leeks, white and light green parts only, rinsed and sliced

1 fennel bulb, cored and diced

6 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp dried basil

1/4 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp dried red chili flakes

1 red pepper, sliced into thin strips

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 can of whole kernel corn, drained

1 red onion, sliced into thin half rounds

1 lb. peeled, deveined, uncooked frozen shrimp

1/2 cup dry white wine

5 oz. baby arugula, washed

1 tbsp lemon juice, about 1/2 a lemon

salt and pepper

vinaigrette:

1 tbsp sherry vinegar

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 tbsp dijon mustard

1/3 cup olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot with lid, heat the 1/4 cup olive oil and add the leeks and fennel. Sauté until soft, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic, sliced red pepper, dried basil, dried thyme, red chili flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir together and cook for about 3 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes and corn and cook for another 4-5 minutes until tomatoes just start to burst. Stir in the frozen shrimp, 1/2 cup white wine, and another pinch of salt and pepper, and put the lid on. Crank the heat to high for a minute or two since the frozen shrimp will bring down the temperature of the mixture significantly. Turn the heat back down to medium and cook with the lid on for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink. Take the lid off and add the onion, lemon juice, and one last pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If the farro isn't done cooking at this point, turn the heat off and put the lid back on the pot.

Cook the farro in a large pot of boiling, salted water until tender, about 25 minutes. While the farro is cooking, make the vinaigrette and set aside. Place the washed arugula in a large bowl and when the farro is done, drain it well and pour the hot farro and vinaigrette over the arugula. Toss to combine. Add the farro and arugula mixture to the pot containing the shrimp and veggies and stir it all together. Serve immediately.

The Selby & Sally Singer

2009-06-01T08:11:00.001-07:00

Be sure to check out The Selby's amazing pictorial of Sally Singer's New York home at the Chelsea Hotel. It seems fitting that such a cool couple (her husband is the novelist Joseph O'Neill) would choose to live and raise their children in one of New York's most infamous and storied buildings. Past residents and guests include Jack Kerouac, Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre, Stanley Kubrick, Edie Sedgwick, Joni Mitchell, The Ramones, Édith Piaf, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Robert Mapplethorpe, Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Jasper Johns, and Willem De Kooning, just to name a few. As if that wasn't ridiculous enough, the building staircases are lined with artwork by some of its famous former residents. In so many ways, the Chelsea Hotel embodies the creative mystic that continues to lure people from all over the world to this great city. Below are a few highlights from The Selby. Singer's home was also featured some years ago in a New York Times article, available here.

Burlap Mat

2009-05-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

My sister and her husband were in town for the long weekend from California and we had a great few days. Whenever friends or family come to visit, I'm reminded of how many amazing things there are to do in this city and how lucky I am to live here. I of course couldn't let her leave without taking her to some of my favorite stores, and John Derian was at the top of the list. She and I both scored some great old pages, ripped from a garden design book circa 1757, for only $20 each. Which brings me to my burlap mat idea.

Every time I paid a visit to the Charlotte Moss Townhouse, which is sadly no longer open, I'd admire the beautiful old prints lining the wall along the staircase. She had them mounted on a gorgeous grey linen and I decided then and there to do some print mounting of my own. I've had this big piece of burlap lying around my apartment for ages, just waiting for a lovely little print from John Derian to arrive. The linen would have been great, but burlap is (1) cheap, (2) super cheap, (3) a nice Belgian linen color, (4) rustic in a really chic way. The whole thing took about 15 minutes and cost about $5 for the burlap (also called jute), $20 for the print, and the frame I already had, but I think it was around $25. I love the way the ripped edge of the page looks against the burlap. It's a quick and easy weekend project. Happy Friday!

Recipe: Mango Guacamole with Pita Chips & Agua Fresca

2009-05-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've had a crazy week this week, but I wanted to share some recipes from my fun-filled Memorial Day weekend. The first recipe for Mango Guacamole is from a cooking class Ben taught about incorporating healthy fats into your diet, and not only is it yummy, but by substituting whole wheat pita chips for tortilla chips it's also semi-guilt free. The second is a Watermelon Agua Fresca recipe I read about in the NY Times. I'd been dreaming about cold agua frescas for weeks and, rather than popping up to La Esquina, I decided to try making them at home . These two recipes together make for one awesome summer's day (or night, if you have some vodka handy). Enjoy!

Mango Guacamole with Pita Chips

3 large, ripe avocados (if the ones you get are hard, put them in a brown paper bag overnight to ripen)

1 mango, peeled, pitted, and diced

1/2 medium red onion, finely diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (wash your hands throughly after handling the jalapeño)

1/2 cup cilantro, freshly chopped

Juice of about 2 limes

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

whole wheat pita chips

To cut each avocado in half, slice from the stem end straight down to the pit, and then rotate the knife around the pit. Twist the halves apart and remove the pit. Spoon the avocado flesh into a large mixing bowl. Add the juice of one of the limes at this point to prevent discoloration of the avocado. Mash with a fork until only slightly chunky. Add to the bowl the mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, additional lime juice if needed, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve with pita chips.

Watermelon Agua Fresca

5 cups diced, ripe watermelon

3 cups water

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1/2 a lime)

1 tablespoon sugar (I added a little more - this really depends on how sweet your watermelon is)

Blend together 4 cups of the watermelon, 1 1/2 cups of the water, the lime juice and the sugar on high speed until smooth. Strain through a medium strainer into a large pitcher or bowl. Stir in the remaining water and watermelon. Refrigerate for 1 hour or longer. Fill a glass with ice, pour in the agua fresca and serve.

Egizia & Paola Navone

2009-05-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

I made a great new discovery yesterday! I was in Barney's Chelsea Passage and happened upon a display of amazing products by a company I'd never heard of - Egizia. After doing a little research I discovered that they're a 56-year-old Italian glass company that specializes in silk screened patterns applied to glass. Based in Tuscany, they've been producing glassware products for some of the biggest tabletop companies in the industry, and recently made their US debut with a collection by the ingenious Paola Navone. Her pieces combine glass and a lovely silver plate, lace motif. Having handled them extensively in the store, I love the wonderful texture the applied silver adds to the outside of the glasses. While Egizia's pieces aren't exactly cheap, the level of craftsmanship you get for the money is definitely justified. The highball and double old fashioned glasses are $36 each. They'd make a great gift if you're looking to go off the registry this wedding season. Check out some of the collection here.

Here are a few pieces from other collections by Egizia. So gorgeous!!

Trompe L'oeil

2009-05-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

The thing I love most about trompe l'oeil pieces is that they always seem to elicit a little smile of amusement from the onlooker. After all, how can something that adds a bit of wit and whimsy to your home ever be bad? One of my favorite examples is Rita Konig's much lusted after faux-fireplace, featured in Domino (above). We can all use some lightness in our lives these days, so see below for a few more of my current trompe l'oeil obsessions. Here's hoping they add a little whim to your Wednesday!

Cylinder Umbrella Stand by Fornasetti, Unica Home; Wallpaper Frocks and Semi Drum wallpaper by Deborah Bowness

Libretto 8 x 10.5" tray by John Derian from Trillium Shop; Ceci Est Un It Bag by Longchamp

Vintage Camera Photo Album from Corcoran Gallery of Art; Face Lotion 10 x 13" tray by John Derian from Ampersand Shops

This room was designed by Nina Campbell (Rita Konig's mother) using Bibliothéque wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils

Ex Libris wallpaper by Fornasetti from Cole & Son

Still Life wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils - I can't seem to find this mentioned in any US source but it has appeared in some European publications. The "bookshelf filled with objets" look is unbelievable!!

Recipe: Asparagus

2009-05-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

Now that asparagus season is in full swing, I wanted to share two of my favorite recipes using these yummy green spears. Both recipes use very few ingredients, take hardly any time, and, best of all, they're extremely easy and totally manageable for a kitchen novice.

Roasted Asparagus with Feta

I watched Ben's mom make this a few years ago, and it was so incredibly simple and delicious I've been making it ever since. It's a great side for a dinner party, and when it's plated there's an unexpected wow factor for such an easy dish.

1 bunch of asparagus (about 14 stalks), trimmed

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

feta, crumbled

salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 475 degrees. Lay the asparagus on a sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. With your hands, give them a quick roll around to make sure each stalk is evenly coated in oil. Roast for 8-10 minutes until asparagus is tender and just starting to brown. Drizzle lemon juice over the hot asparagus and crumble as much or as little feta as you'd like right over the top. Serve immediately.

Prosciutto & Asparagus Rolls

This recipe is actually from The Minimalist himself, Mark Bittman. If you'd like to watch a video of him make these, check it out here. I made them as an appetizer for a dinner party and they were a total crowd pleaser. They're cute little bite-sized rolls that look quite complex considering how easy they are to make. This makes a dozen or so rolls.

1 bunch of asparagus (thinner stalks are preferable), trimmed

4 cups baby arugula, washed

1/2 lb proscuitto, sliced thin

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp olive oil

salt & pepper

Blanch the asparagus in a pot of boiling, salted water for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but retain a little crunch. Shock them briefly in an ice bath so they keep their vibrant green color. Pat the asparagus dry and add them to the bowl with your washed and dried arugula. Add the lemon juice and olive oil to the bowl, a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper and toss that all together. On a piece of parchment paper, lay out your strips of prosciutto so they overlap just a bit and pat them down so the strips stick together. At one end of the prosciutto, pile a small bunch of arugula and a few spears of asparagus. Using the parchment paper to get you started, roll the prosciutto over the arugula and asparagus and keep rolling until you have one long tube. With a sharp knife, cut the roll into small segments. Plate and serve.

Inspiration: Sofia Coppola

2009-05-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I was on the hunt for an everyday bag, and I had some very clear criteria in mind. It had to be black leather, ample in size, simple enough that I wouldn't get sick of it, and timeless enough that it would never go out of style. I love the bag I ended up buying, but if Sofia Coppola's new collection for Louis Vuitton had been around back then my bag hunt may have had a different ending. Her aesthetic sensibility is the definition of timeless and classic, and it extends not only to her line of bags, but to her personal style, and even to her home. Sofia makes me want to get rid of all the clutter in my life and invest in a few key pieces that, like my bag, are simple and timeless. It's a great rule of thumb for your closet and your home - never overdone, always effortless, incredibly inspiring.

MAD: Object Factory

2009-05-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

Edyta Cieloch, Spanish Lace, 2008

Now that I'm back in NYC, I can't wait to check out some of the amazing exhibits and shows going on all over the city. At the top of my list is the new Object Factory: The Art of Industrial Ceramics exhibit at the Museum of Arts and Design. It focuses on the recent resurgence of ceramics, owing in large part to collaborations between contemporary artists and some of the world's oldest porcelain manufacturers like Nymphenburg and Rosenthal. These pairings of designer and industry have resulted in some incredible (and some off the wall) ceramic pieces, ranging from the fully functional to the purely decorative. If you can't make it to the show, be sure to check out images of some of the pieces on MAD's website.

Ami Drach, Hot Plate, 2003 (the metal in the paint conducts heat!)

Thomas Allen, Tea Set, 2006-2007

Alon Meron, Combinations, 2007

Gesine Hackenberg, Spoon Set, 2001

Maya Vinitsky, Squeeze Cup, 2003

Industreal, Lampe 72 dpi, 2007

The Huntington Library

2009-05-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

I’m winging my way back to New York today but wanted to share some pictures I took during my recent visit to the Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens in Pasadena. My mother’s friend is a docent there and she gave us a private tour of the recently reopened Beaux-Arts residence and the new Chinese Garden. If you’re ever in the area it’s a lovely place to spend the day, and the Desert Garden is often cited by interior designers as a huge source of inspiration. I’m sure the beautiful new Chinese Garden will soon be added to their list of inspirational spots as it’s filled with gorgeous details. One of my favorites was the area covered in intricately laid stone done in a quatrefoil shape. I also found a sweet little book on etiquette in the gift shop that was taken from old documents in the Huntington’s collection. It’s filled with arcane but amusing advise for women such as always referring to your husband by his surname. The advice may be outdated but it sure will look sweet on my coffee table.

I love black bisque.

Kelly Wearstler would die over this chair.

Is it me or does this look like a really contemporary tea set?

A chair from the William Morris collection

A William Morris carved woodblock

William Morris wallpaper

LOVE!!

Shakespeare Garden

Chinese Garden

Zinc

2009-05-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Zinc has always been one of my favorite materials, and I was so excited to see that Bobo Intriguing Objects has added a number of zinc items to their collection. The weathered, blue gray finish gives zinc an approachable quality, but it's also incredibly classic and chic - not to mention gorgeous. It's often thought of as something for outdoor use only, but the two pieces above would be great additions to anyone's indoor decor. Here are a few more of my faves.

Toulouse Chandelier by Vaughan

Factory District Table from Sundance Catalog

Zinc Letters from Anthropologie

Zinc Paneled Mirror from Pottery Barn

Arched Lantern by Marston & Langinger

Recipe: Cold Brewed Iced Coffee

2009-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm a big coffee drinker, but when the weather starts heating up I want something icy cold and refreshing before I head out into the 98 degree, 80% humidity day. Ben saw a recipe for cold brewed coffee in the New York Times a couple of years ago, and every summer since we've made the switch to this delicious cold brew. Because the coffee grounds are never heated, they don't have that bitter, burnt taste that coffee can sometimes have. I like a touch of milk and a couple ice cubes because this brew is pretty concentrated, but it makes for a great way to start off your hot summer day.

Cold Brewed Iced Coffee

1/3 cup coffee grounds

1 1/2 cups water

Mix together the water and the coffee grounds in a container and let sit overnight at room temperature. In the morning, strain the mixture through a sieve and then pour into your coffee filter and let percolate down into the coffee pot, without turning your coffee maker on. If you have a French press, pass the mixture through a sieve and then pour into the press and strain. Add a few ice cubes, a touch of water to taste, and enjoy it black or with a little milk. Makes two cups.

Rose Bowl Flea Market

2009-05-11T00:07:00.001-07:00

I'm currently spending a few days in California with my wonderful family, and was thrilled to actually wish my mom a Happy Mother's Day in person. It can be really rough living so far away from my fam. Before our Mother's Day lunch, my sister and I decided to wake up early and spend a few hours at the Rose Bowl Flea Market located in my hometown, Pasadena. I'm ashamed to admit that I'd actually never been, but my mom and sister have been going for years. Held on the second Sunday of every month, it's packed with gorgeous furniture, lighting, and accessories. Some pieces are great as is, and some are just aching to be brought back to life with a fresh coat of paint. Not only are the prices hard to beat, the selection was surprisingly varied, and included a set of Bertoia chairs, drippy chandeliers, Regency style tables, and Hungarian plant stands. There's also great vintage clothing and jewelry - my sis managed to nab a great vintage bracelet almost as soon as we arrived. We only had a couple of hours to walk the aisles, but a couple of days wouldn't be time enough to see it all. If you go, get there early to avoid missing some great finds, and to avoid dealing with the crowds that descend around 10am. Here's a small sampling of the eye candy on display.

My sister's vintage bracelet was only $20!!

Bienvenue Chez

2009-05-06T06:31:00.000-07:00

This month's French Vogue has a lovely story on Helena Christensen's New York home, shot by The Selby. Her space feels so cozy and casual, and her lovely little vignettes had me analyzing each minute detail over and over. I love spaces that are beautifully decorated, but sometimes I just want to see a home that is so deeply personal it could only have been created by the homeowner themselves. It feels so much more real and alive with individual spirit. Enjoy!

à la Helena:

Resin Antler Trophy, Jayson Home & Garden; Robert Ogden Floor Lamp, Sundance Catalog; Tufted Chair, Ballard Designs; Wood Mushrooms, Lars Bolander; Blue Ground Paint, Farrow & Ball

Heirloom Beans

2009-05-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, Ben introduced me to heirloom beans and I'm telling you, it completely changed the way I think about beans - meaning I actually think about them now. He started using Rancho Gordo heirloom beans, which he'd acquired during a trip to northern California to visit his parents, and each dish he used them in completely blew me away. Based in Napa, California, this company produces some of the most incredible dried beans you've ever tasted. This recipe for Drunken Beans, or borrachos, is a south western version of baked beans that Ben adapted from the Heirloom Beans cookbook put out by Rancho Gordo owner Steve Sando. If you're interested in reading more about the company and heirloom beans, check out this recent feature in the New York Times Magazine. Because of the soaking and cooking times, this recipe is best for a weekend meal, but I promise, the leftovers get better and better. Hey, if Thomas Keller's a fan, shouldn't you be too!

Drunken Beans

1 lb Pinto, Rio Zape, Red Appaloosa, or Anasazi Beans, cooked, in their broth (see below)

2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped

1 medium carrot, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

2 tsp kosher salt

2 bottles lager beer

4 slices of bacon, diced

6 garlic cloves, minced

2 jalapeño peppers, minced (seed if you prefer less heat)

1 lb cremini mushrooms, wiped clean, stemmed, and sliced

Juice of 1 lime

Corn tortillas, warmed, for serving

Lime wedges, sour cream, grated cheese, for serving

Cover the beans with an inch or two of cold water and let them soak for 4 to 6 hours. Pour the beans and their soaking liquid into a large pot. Add a handful of the chopped onion, the carrot, and the celery, and bring to a rolling boil. Let boil briskly for 5 or so minutes, then turn the heat down to a bare simmer and let cook, uncovered, for 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours (cooking time varies by bean), or until the beans are almost tender. While cooking add warm water as needed to keep the beans submerged in an inch of liquid. Add the salt and beer and continue to simmer for another 20 to 30 minutes, so some of the beer can cook off.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until browned, remove with a slotted spoon, and set aside. Add the remaining onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and jalapeño and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.

Add the mushroom mixture to the pot of beans, stir to combine, and let simmer gently for 10 minutes so the flavors can combine. Add the cooked bacon, lime juice, taste for seasoning, and serve with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkling of cheese, and tortillas and lime wedges passed around the table.

Back to Basics

2009-05-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

When it comes to furnishing your home, good basics can be some of the hardest things to find. They're like a great base on which to build your personal style, and simple enough that you can take them with you from place to place. Some of the best, and cheapest, basics I've seen in a while are available from an unexpected source - the Nate Berkus collection for HSN. Not only are the prices extremely reasonable (I'm talking less than West Elm), they even have payment plans available! Way to respond to the economic climate! Here are a few standouts to consider next time you're in the market for some basics.

Nate Berkus Tufted Headboard, $349.90/Queen, hsn.com

Nate Berkus Jute Braid Rug, $199.90/8x10, hsn.com

Nate Berkus Handcrafted Slipper Chair, $329.90, hsn.com

Nate Berkus Twill Studio Sofa, $499.90, hsn.com

Folding Screen Headboard & Sconces

2009-05-01T06:50:00.000-07:00

I was flipping through some magazines yesterday and happened upon this great bedroom. I've always loved the old folding screen as headboard trick, but this also solves the problem of not being able to hardwire your sconces into the wall. Attaching them to the screen eliminates the long, pesky pole that those of us who rent are very familiar with, hiding all the nasty bits behind the screen for a cleaner look.

I'm kind of obsessed with half-height screens at the moment and thinking of building one myself to hide our unsightly air conditioning unit in the living room. Looks like I'm in for another trip to my local lumber store this weekend. Stay tuned...

Image: ELLE Decor, April 2007, Simon Upton

Outdoor Lounging

2009-04-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

I know in admitting this I will incur the wrath of many of my fellow New Yorkers, but here goes: my apartment building has a lovely roof deck with teak chairs, chaises, and tables. As penance, anyone reading this is invited over anytime. Now that the weather has finally warmed up I've been spending more time up on the roof, and it's great eating dinner by the candlelight of a lantern. There is however one BIG problem. Approximately 15 minutes on a chair or chaise, and your tailbone starts to kill! Teak is great and all for outdoor furniture but comfy it most definitely is not. Solution: CUSHIONS!

Of course I immediately had visions of a chic box chaise cushion in one of Trina Turk's new outdoor fabrics for Schumacher, with maybe a contrast welt thrown in for fun. Alas, a custom job just isn't in the cards right now, so I turned to some of my favorite outdoor sources and found you can put together some pretty chic and cheap combos, no upholsterer required.

Moroccan Lounger

Chaise Cushion: $129, Ballard Designs; Pillow: $22.11 set of 2, Walmart; Lantern: $20, Jamali Garden

Nautical Lounger

Chair Cushion: $210, Restoration Hardware; Pillow: $32, Pottery Barn; Lanterns: $15, $12, Jamali Garden

Tailored Modern Lounger

Chaise Cushion: $129, Ballard Designs; Pillow: $75, Charleston Garden; Lantern: $9.95, Crate & Barrel

Upper East Side Lounger

Chair Cushion: $199, Ballard Designs; Pillow: $12.99, Ballard Designs; Lantern: $59.95, CB2

Granny Style

2009-04-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

My grandmother was the most stylish woman I've ever met. Her style mantras included: you can never own too much costume jewelry, Friday hair appointments are always kept, and never let them see you without your "face" on. It seems fitting somehow that fashion is finally taking some cues from these older and wiser ladies who taught us what life and style are all about.

Fashion: Luella Bartley, S/S 09; Needlepoint Pillow: Jonathan Adler; Travel Case: J.Crew; Lamp: Barbara Cosgrove; Glasses: Kate Spade; Handkerchief: Neue Galerie; Dress: Madras by A.P.C. from Bird; Brooches: Bloomingdale's; Dinnerware: Royal Copenhagen from Moss ; Sandals: Dale's Shoes; Card Game: Noun

Recipe: Ramps

2009-04-28T05:40:00.001-07:00

There's always a bit of a buzz here in New York during ramp season. In case you're not familiar with them, ramps are wild spring leeks that are in season for about a month at the beginning of spring. For most of us, having ramps arrive at the local farmer's market signifies that spring has really sprung, and it seems every restaurant you go to has a special on the menu involving ramps. Ben introduced me to them when we first moved here to New York and we've used them in pastas, on pizzas, in risottos, frittatas, and of course, just on their own as a delicious vegetable side. This dish is one of my favorites because it's easy and involves very few ingredients, which really lets you enjoy these fleeting veggies to their fullest.

Linguine with Ramps

1 1/2 tablespoon coarse salt

1 pound dry linguine

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

8 ounces fresh ramps, white root ends and green leafy tops separated

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 cup breadcrumbs, toasted

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus extra for serving

*Cleaning your ramps: trim the tip of the root end and starting at the beginning of the green part, pull the outer layer down toward the bulb end, revealing the clean, white bulb. Rinse very well and store in the refrigerator wrapped in paper towel inside a ziploc bag.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Add your linguine and cook according to the directions on the package or until al dente. Meanwhile, heat a large sauté pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes, and add 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Add the root ends of the ramps and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 4 minutes. Add the leafy green tops, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tablespoon of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until well wilted. Add to the pan your drained pasta and 1/4 cup or so of the pasta water, and toss until well coated. Off the heat, add the parmesan. Top each serving with a little more freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkling of the toasted breadcrumbs.

Clic Bookstore & Gallery

2009-04-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite new downtown discoveries is Clic Bookstore & Gallery, Christiane Celle's post-Calypso venture. In this tiny but well designed space is an amazing selection of photography and art books that you're welcome to peruse to your heart's content. Whether you're into the classics like Avedon, Penn, and Adams, or a lover of more obscure fare like Lyle Owerko and Wolfgang Ludes, Clic will undoubtedly have something you'll be unable to leave the store without. It's currently located at 189 Lafayette, but a larger location is due to open any day at 424 Broome Street.

That area is filled with incredible stores and when I'm in need of some inspiration, my usual route is as follows: up Broadway to Opening Ceremony and Ted Muehling on Howard, then on to Crosby and De Vera, BDDW, and Michele Varian, right on Grand and left on Lafayette to Clic, and finally, Aero on Broome. God I love living in New York!

Project: Faux Built-In Bookcase

2009-04-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Inspiration:

My inspiration for this project came from a visit to the offices of the fabulous Bunny Williams for a preview of her BeeLine Home Collection. I have to say, that woman is way wise. The entire Domino team sat mesmerized by her words of wisdom for quite some time. Anyway, in one of the rooms she had attached beautiful gilded molding to an ordinary wall of built-in bookcases, which resulted in the gorgeousness above. I can't remember exactly where she'd found her molding, but suffice to say it wasn't exactly from Home Depot. It got me thinking about what a little molding might do for my simple BILLY bookcases from IKEA.

The Project:

This project turns four boring IKEA BILLY bookcases into one huge wall of storage that has all the panache of a built-in, minus the lofty price tag.

Materials:

-bookcases you want to join together (should be matching)

-column of pilaster molding - you'll need multiples depending on how many bookcases you're joining together

-crown molding - two pieces per pilaster column, cut to the same width as the pilaster

-wood glue

-paint that matches your bookcases

-paint supplies (i.e. brush and tray)

Putting It Together

1. Glue your crown molding pieces to the top and bottom of your pilaster column and allow to dry.

2. Slap a couple coats of paint on the entire column and allow to dry.

(Note: When you're at the lumber or hardware store buying your pilaster column and crown molding pieces, be sure to ask for MDF rather than something pricey like oak in order to keep the cost down. Also, make sure you measure the overall height of your bookcase and bring it with you. Your pilaster column plus the crown molding piece at the top and bottom will need to add up to the height of your bookcase. )

3. Using wood glue, adhere your pilaster column in between the bookcases you're joining together, making sure the flat edges on the back of the column meet with the flat front of the bookcases. Follow the directions of the wood glue regarding drying time. That's it!

(Note: If you're using BILLY bookcases from IKEA, then this next step is just for you. The front edge of these beauties isn't actually wood, it's plastic so your wood glue won't work - trust me, I learned this one the hard way. In order to peel the front side off to get to the wood, find the seam at the top and wedge a flat head screwdriver in using a hammer. Once it begins to separate, just pull down and the whole thing comes off like a ribbon, exposing the wood beneath. )

Before

After

The cost for this project really depends on how big of a bookcase you want. I bought two more BILLY Bookcases to go with the two I already had for $59.99 each, and my molding, wood glue, paint and supplies came in around $100. If you'd like more specifics, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to send you my full write-up of the project.

Have a great weekend!

Ruffle Mirror

2009-04-21T16:31:00.001-07:00

I've been obsessed with the Niermann Weeks "Cape Linden" mirror for ages and ages. I love the Art Deco, Jean Michel Frankiness of the shape and the beautiful craftsmanship of the resin. The uber-high price tag however was totally out of my reach, and so the dream of hanging one of my very own in my tiny apartment was short lived.

HELLLLOOO Atoll Mirror! Ballard Designs has their own version of the "Cape Linden" (okay fine, it's a total knockoff, but times they are a tough) that is every bit as generous in size and comes with a lovely $299 price tag. The dream lives!!

Top image from Domino, July/August 2006

Cauliflower

2009-04-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

My wonderful boyfriend Ben is currently in his second year of medical school at NYU and has been teaching a cooking class for his fellow med students. A few years back he went to the Institute of Culinary Education here in NYC and did a stint at Per Se, so, needless to say, he really knows his way around the kitchen. Seeing as how I have some extra time on my hands since Domino folded, I've been recipe testing for him and enjoying every second. I feel just like Julia Child each time I make a notation of something I think he should add to make the recipe easier to follow for novices like myself. The dishes he has put together are really fantastic and super simple. This first one I tried totally blew me away because it resulted in a bowl of cauliflower so delicious, I stood in our kitchen and devoured the entire thing. Seriously, when's the last time you ate an entire bowl of cauliflower! It would make a perfect side dish for a dinner party and I love the yellow color the cauliflower gets from the turmeric. Enjoy!!

Spiced Cauliflower with Breadcrumbs

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 cups cauliflower, cut into small, 1-inch florets (about 3/4 head)

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/4 cup coarse breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon sherry vinegar

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes, and then add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the cauliflower and shake the pan to evenly distribute into one layer. Cook, without stirring, until browned slightly, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, cumin, turmeric, breadcrumbs, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, many grinds of black pepper, and toss to coat. Continue to cook until cauliflower is tender but retains some bite, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, add the sherry vinegar, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt, toss together, and serve.

Dossier Shop

2009-04-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

Dossier Shop, 244 DeKalb Avenue (between Vanderbilt and Claremont Aves), Fort Greene, 718.783.0783

In general, I would say my five main interests include design, food, fashion, art, and literature, though not necessarily in that order. How convenient that Dossier should open a store in Fort Greene that hits on all of the above. In case you haven't picked up a copy yet, Dossier is the biannual fashion and arts journal whose contents are compiled under the assumption that people who care about fashion and art also care about literature, food, design, and music (I'm a bit of a music neophyte myself but I'm working on it). Open Tuesday to Sunday, 12-7, Dossier Shop carries clothing by APC, Bless, high-end vintage pieces, jewelry by the amazing Pamela Love, small-run art books put out by independent presses, handmade stationary, artist monographs, prints and lithographs, as well as cookbooks, literary journals, records, and I'm sure tons of gorgeous little knickknacks. They're even offering a 10% friends and family discount through April 24th. Oh, and don't forget to pick up the recently released new issue featuring the oh so chic Lou Doillon.

Inspiration: Ambra Medda

2009-04-16T17:18:00.000-07:00

Some women inspire you to greater heights with their own achievements, and Ambra Medda is definitely one of those women for me. She's the daughter of a London gallerist and grew up traveling all over the world with her mother, tracking down pieces and artists. When she was 23, she cofounded Design Miami to address the need for a design fair that touched on the relationship between contemporary art and limited-edition, historic design pieces. It is now the most important contemporary design fair in the world and travels between Miami and Switzerland with Art Basel every June and December. At 27, she currently serves as the director of Design Miami and Design Miami/Basel. Ambra is gorgeous, has great style, and oh, did I mention she's fluent in five languages. Check out this Sunday's T Magazine in your NY Times for a "Profile in Style" on Ambra and find out where she gets her inspiration.

Caged In

2009-04-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

It seems everywhere I look, there they are - the YSL caged booties for Spring 09. Every fashion magazine has featured them multiple times and, as soon as the weather starts to warm up here in New York, I'm sure I'll be seeing them on the feet of chic women all over the city. It's common knowledge that fashion influences design, but these cagey cuties made me wonder if Stefano Pilati may have turned to some well known design classics for his inspiration.

Waste Basket by Josef Hoffman, $225, Neue Galerie (neuegalerie.org)

Bertoia Side Chair, $460, Design Within Reach (dwr.com)

322 D.S.1 table by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, $5,200, Cassina (cassinausa.com)

Wine Coaster by Josef Hoffman, $100, Neue Galerie (neuegalerie.org)

Michael Graves PF8 Press Filter Coffee Maker, $185, Alessi (alessi-shop.com)

Easter Cookies

2009-04-12T10:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Lee Radziwill: Then & Now

2009-04-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

I've been fascinated by Lee Radziwill ever since I bought my copy of Happy Times, her photo album and notebook of life in the 60's. Filled with images and memories of beautiful vacation homes, encounters with icons of the time like Truman Capote and Andy Warhol, parties at the White House with Jackie and JFK, and much more, it's an incredible peak into the fabulous and sometimes tragic lives of the Bouvier sisters. It also happens to include images of Lee's various homes during that time. When I picked up the April issue of ELLE Decor, I was immediately reminded of these when I saw their beautiful story on her current homes in Manhattan and Paris. I thought it called or a little then & now moment.

Turville, Lee's seventeenth-century Queen Anne bakehouse outside of Oxfordshire, was decorated with floral silk panels and her Anglo-Indian botanical watercolors.

(Image: Happy Times, Horst)

When her children were older, Lee moved from her apartment on Fifth to a smaller penthouse on Park Avenue. She brought with her the same watercolors that hung in her home at Turville.

(Image: Happy Times, Derry Moore)

Lee's current apartment in Paris is now the home of her beloved watercolors, which are revealed in the ELLE Decor article as having been a gift from the Duke of Beaufort. This just goes to show you that the things you love will always look at home in your space, wherever that may be.