Tag Archives: Inspiration

Observations: Public Bathrooms Again

November 16, 2012

The ladies room in the new Ralph Lauren women's store on Madison Avenue and 79th Street is signature RL. The use of a Cararra marble counter top on washstand legs, a mosaic floor and beautiful black and white photographs is always classic.Slideshow

I haven’t written about public bathrooms in a long time, probably because most of them are abominable. But on my recent trip to Europe I saw several WC’s that merited photos.  Here are a few things that make a public bathroom worthy of this blog; of course, they must be sparkling clean, there must be a relationship between the design of the bath and its’ adjacent space (the lobby or restaurant), the fixtures should be in perfect working order and the lighting good for a makeup refresh. It is always nice if there are fresh flowers or a fragrant candle and, it goes without saying, the space needs to be visually pleasing.

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Glass Tile Installation: Guest Blogger

November 15, 2012

An early stage installation shot—a freshly grouted wall in the bathtub.Slideshow

JILL LITNER KAPLAN of Boston, my guest blogger today, has been in the world of design for the past 20 years. An experienced professional, she has an exquisite eye for design, an understanding of client preferences, and a hands on style for managing her projects. I think you’ll love her Repose glass bath for two lucky little girls.

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Duncan Phyfe

November 14, 2012

This small console or pier table, circa 1817-22, was crafted for the Beekman family of New York. It is made of rosewood, pine and ebony with ormolu mounts, string inlay and a marble top. This is an unusual and extremely rare example of Duncan Phyfe's work.Slideshow

Duncan Phyfe (1768 – 1854) was an extraordinary New York City cabinetmaker who holds a prominent place among those who made significant contributions to the design and style of furniture for some of the wealthiest figures of his time in New York and beyond. New York became the capital of the United States in 1785 and that set the city on a path to become a world power during the first half of the 19th century. The city was strategically located as a gateway for European imports and domestic exports. This commercial activity supported a cosmopolitan way of life that emulated the highest society abroad.

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Friday Post: The Empire Tub

November 13, 2012

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The Empire tub is the focal point in this space. It reads as a piece of sculpture, filling the window bay.  It is framed by the soft and simple curtains;  the visual height of the ceiling is captured by the tall spare tree and the nearly transparent chandelier.  There is no question that the space is enlivened by the patterned red rug. The rug is a bold statement with traditional overtones. It feels like just the right amount of decoration.

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