Duquette DECO-dence!

Oh my, my, my, my, my. I flipped when I came across these old photos of Bullocks Department stores.

In 1935 Tony Duquette was hired by Bullocks to change their interiors to reflect the seasons. Because Los Angeles has no discernible seasons, it was Duquette's job to make it appear as if they did.

Upon seeing his work, legendary decorator Elsie de Wolfe uttered the fated words, "Who is this kid, I've got to meet him." De Wolfe took Duquette under her wing and sent his career soaring.

How's that for some Deco Glam?


images from here

I'm Coveting...

Have you ever perused the website, The Coveteur? It's become one of my latest inspirations. The Coveteur gives you a sneak peek into the closets of the most influential artists, designers, fashion magazine editors and fashionistas around the world, photographing their most coveted items.

The Coveteur is pure eye candy. Look at these beautiful photos of Suzanne Rogers' interior. Aren't they stunning?

Beautiful, aren't they?

photos: Jake Rosenberg for The Coveteur

Gasp.

Yesterday my friend Karen came over to share two of her latest purchases; the newly released limited-edition books, “De Vera Objects” and “De Vera Jewelry,” by Federico de Vera. Needless to say, they are filled with the most beautiful eye-candy I've ever seen!

De Vera, a merchant, collector, and jewelry designer, had shops in San Francisco for over two decades, and has now moved to a two-level cabinet of curiosities on Crosby Street in New York City. He also has a second location on East 81st Street. His work is nothing less than exquisite.

De Vera's jewelry is museum-like in nature. He transforms antique elements (irregular fragments of gemstones, rose-cut diamonds, baroque pearls, coral branches, intaglios, amulets, Georgian shoe buckles and more) into marvelous new adornments that he likes best “when you almost cannot wear them."

Federico de Vera at home in Manhattan with his portrait collection {via NY Times, Tina Tyrell}

Each volume of de Vera's new books include some of the best objects and jewelry he has designed, collected and sold over the years. The photography and styling is staggering.

A single book is $165. A boxed set of both volumes, including one original artwork by de Vera, costs $500. Limited edition of 2,500. Prices may be a little steep, but well worth the amazing "oohs & aahs" that you will experience while flipping through them.

To purchase, click here.

I am just about to press the purchase button...I just can't help myself!

images: Anita Calero for de Vera

A Little Getaway

exterior of The Parker, Palm Springs

Since there are no signs of Spring any time soon here in Northern California, I thought it would be a perfect time to share some photos of my recent little getaway to Palm Springs, CA. I regret not taking more photos of the sprawling palm trees and mountains, but come with me and take a little look around, okay?

enter the orange doors of The Parker...

Enter the lobby which is filled with geometric shapes of '60s décor and Peruvian wall hangings. The 131-room and 12-villa resort is playful and entertaining. There are 3 swimming pools (one indoor), tennis courts, croquet, even a cute lemonade stand...

The Parker, designed by Jonathan Adler, doesn't disappoint. The whimsical lobby is eclectic and colorful.

I LOVE that vintage drug sign!

Love that shelf of 60's colorful decanters...

Some of Adler's pottery...

The bar in the middle of the lobby...

Would you like a shot of rum before your massage? Yes, that's what they ask you at The Palm Springs Yacht Club, PSYC for short. 'Tongue and cheek' going on here.

This spa is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. I could have lived there. After a massage one day and a sugar scrub the next, I was in heaven. Didn't have that shot of rum though...

What's a trip to Palm Springs without a little antiquing? Yes, we shopped and we found. A lot of wonderful modern decor...some great vintage finds!

Little secret...I love to gamble. And what fun...two Indian casinos just a few miles from the hotel...unfortunately no winnings to report...

The rooms weren't over-the-top, but the amenities...oh my. Here we go; L’Occitane and Hermes boxed soap (yes, that's right, Herme's beautiful soaps), Bulgari body lotion, Molton Brown shower gel, Penhaligon’s shampoo and conditioner, Blistex lip balm, and Peter Thomas Roth sunscreen. Needless to say, our suitcases conveniently used our products daily and were replenished by housekeeping.

It was a much-needed, short 4 day getaway, that seems like ages ago. I definitely recommend anyone going to Palm Springs to visit The Parker. At the least, check out the PSYC spa. It's divine!

Now go on and enjoy your Spring!

I'm Loving...

The new issue of Lonny, online today! I am especially drawn to interior decorator, Jennifer Dyer's 1940's Hollywood Regency home, pages 172-193. Wonderful advice on incorporating vintage into your decor. Check the whole mag out here!

images: Patrick Cline for Lonny

Ada & Darcy

I recently discovered Ada & Darcy, the gorgeous blog of Australia-based interior designer Kellie Collis.

Ada & Darcy takes my breath away with Kellie's eye-catching photos of her own home, her DIY projects, and the pure & simple beauty that she admires.

Kellie has a passion for all things beautiful, especially fabulous interiors. She is always looking for new and gorgeous things for her interior design and styling business, and for her online store that will be opening very soon.

Her precious babies, Lily & Molly...

Colorful pillows & vibrant flowers grace Kellie's home...

If you're looking for endless inspiration, a romantic and ethereal place to get lost in, visit Ada & Darcy here. You may find yourself spending much time perusing it as I have! It's fabulous!

photo credits: Ada & Darcy