Sally and I want to share a sneak peak of our latest installation. It is in a 1670 antique colonial on the North Shore of Boston and is a delightful mix of old family heirlooms and new. Most all the new area rugs and furniture arrived yesterday. Drapery still needs to go up and artwork needs to be hung and/or reframed, etc., but you can already feel the energy of the house.

This morning, when Sally checked her email, there was one of those emails designers dream about sent to her by her client waiting to be opened. Here’s a portion of it…

 “Just wanted you to know how happy we are and how much we appreciate all you’ve done. Everything looks great. Some of it will take a little getting used to… but in a good way, as in, ”Is this really our house?” Again, your art hanging recommendations are perfect (It’s clearly an art, and you have the gift). Thank you. Thank you!”

Now it’s time to help Sally get the house ready for tomorrow. Hope you all have a wonderful laughter filled Thanksgiving Holiday with family and friends!

Cheers,

 If you’d like us to help you design the home of your dreams, or simply reframe and hang artwork, please contact us here.

When I get stuck and am looking for inspirational examples of 18^th and 19^th Century American interior architecture and decor I always end up turning the pages of Traditional American Rooms, by Brent Hull and Christine Franck.

The book is a celebration of Henry DuPont’s Winterthur. While many wealthy American were busy collecting European art and antiques, he chose to focus on collecting and furnishing his house with gorgeous antiques that were examples of the very best of early American style and craftsmanship. The story of Winterthur and its American Wing is beautifully summarized in the preface of the book.

Here are examples of some of my favorite rooms. I think the pictures speak for themselves, arranged them in order by date, illustrating the evolution of classical American traditional style through the eyes of Mr. DuPont.

 1733, Redbourne Parlor

 1740, Gidley Room

 1740,  Tappahonnock Room

 1760, Queene Anne Dining Room

 1762, Port Royal Room

 1790, Chestertown Room

 1802, Landcaster Room

 1806, Phyfe Room

 1812, Biltmore Drawing Room

My favorite is the 1844 Marlboro Room

I can squint my eyes and visualize this room with different curtains – linen to let the light in, and more relaxed furniture - sofas with  linen slip covers, reupholster the wing chairs I could move in tomorrow! Have to keep the rug, light fixtures - maybe not even electrify them- and paint! (I wish I could see more of the leather camel back settee.)

Love to know which room is your favorite…

Cheers,