House Beautiful featured a wonderful 1905 Edwardian San Francisco house that had a stunning Biedermeier armoire against chocolate painted room.   The wood gives this rooom a natural feelThe living room's gracious proportions are enhanced by a symmetrical, balanced arrangement of furnishings and objects. A collection of white ceramics [...]]]>

San Francisco Home Feautred in Home Beautiful

House Beautiful featured a wonderful 1905 Edwardian San Francisco house that had a stunning Biedermeier armoire against chocolate painted room.   The wood gives this rooom a natural feelThe living room's gracious proportions are enhanced by a symmetrical, balanced arrangement of furnishings and objects. A collection of white ceramics pops against the dark wall color.

Michael Coorengel and Jean Pierre Calvagrac own a gorgeous Parisian apartment located in the Hausmann building overlooking the Place de la Bastille.  Their home features the most exquisite French panelled walls, and the best antique furniture.  In the photo above they are photographed in front of the rooms in [...]]]>

Michael Coorengel Jean-Pierre Calvagrac's French Styled Apartment

Michael Coorengel and Jean Pierre Calvagrac own a gorgeous Parisian apartment located in the Hausmann building overlooking the Place de la
Bastille.  Their home features the most exquisite French panelled walls, and the best antique furniture.  In the photo above they are photographed in front of the rooms in their home, which only shows a glimpse into the room.  An all white interior or a dark color like black can look rather bland without a pop of color.  Consider adding the color with paintings.  Today you can buy paintings already framed which is the way to go.  Often times the unframed art is almost the same price as the framed pieces.  Here are some of my choices for a pop of color.  Many of the prints aren't fussy, and are designs that will work with your ever changing style.

Colorful Abstract Oil Painting, with Linen Liner Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 42.5 inches $165

Colorful Abstract Oil Painting, with Linen Liner Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 42.5 $165

Art That Can Go In Any Room

Two Girls Dancing in Brown Abstract Oil Painting, with Linen Liner Gold Wood Frame 42.5 x 30.5 inches $165

Rothko Paintings: Yellow, Red, Blue with Black 26" X 30" $188

Klimt Paintings: The Apple Tree with Mediterranean Gold Frame - Gold Finish - 30" X 34" - Hand Painted Canvas $258

Klimt Apple Tree I 20-Inch by 24-Inch Framed Oil on Canvas $248

Van Gogh Paintings: The Harvest with Vienna Gold Leaf  - 15" X 17" $108

Vincent Van Gogh Langlois Bridge at Arles with Women Washing 8-Inch by 10-Inch Framed Oil on Canvas $98

Frankenstein with Victorian Gold Frame - Gold Finish - 32" X 44"

Yellow, Red and Green Abstract Oil Painting, with Exquisite Dark Gold Wood Frame 26.5 x 30.5 inches $135

Abstract Waterfall Skyscapes Oil Painting, with Exquisite Dark Gold Wood Frame 26.5 x 30.5 inches $138

Abstract Oil On Canvas Oil Painting, with Exquisite Dark Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 26.5 inches $132

Boats in Ocean with Red Backgound in Sunset Oil Painting, Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 42.5 inches $166

Majestic II Oil Painting, with Exquisite Dark Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 26.5 inches $138

Two Red Flowers in a Light Blue Background Oil Painting,Gold Wood Frame 30.5 x 26.5 inches $147

Vincent Van Gogh Branches of an Almond Tree in Blossom 20-Inch by 24-Inch Framed Oil on Canvas $218

Vincent Van Gogh Branches of an Almond Tree in Blossom 20-Inch by 24-Inch Framed Oil on Canvas $218

House Beautiful featured a dynamic home based around rich French design. The house belongs to Annie Brahler whom is an obvious collector of fine French furniture. She shares a love like most of us for French furnishings, and it is so exciting to see what another collector has [...]]]>

Rich Empire Looks- Home Beautiful Magazine May 2012

House Beautiful featured a dynamic home based around rich French design. The house belongs to Annie Brahler whom is an obvious collector of fine French furniture. She shares a love like most of us for French furnishings, and it is so exciting to see what another collector has done with her home.  Most of the house is based in whites, except a few rooms.

See my other post "5 Darn Good Tips For A Richer Looking Home" I show more of the home, particularly the white based rooms and what you can do to get the look.

Dark based rooms can appear exceptionally rich.  Here are a few tips to capturing a very wealthy appearance with dark interiors. 

- Exceptional interiors feature drop dead georgeous furniture. Not everyone has a million bucks to play with, so get creative with the furniture you have. In this photo, you can see the walls, floors and furniture is painted a rich gray.  The piano isn't particularly expensive, but painted in the exact same color gives it a very dramatic appearance.  Consider painting the furniture in the same color as the walls, but adding some polyurthane to the furniture so it doesn't take on the appearance of a chalkboard when touched.  Minwax produces a wonderful polyurthane in a satin that I have used for several years.  You can also buy it in a gloss.  It works great on dark furniture.

- Remember less is SOOOOO much more!  Have you ever walked into a room that has dozens of knick nacks?  Or walked into a antique store that had way way way to much to look at?  You tend to not want to look at anything!  Pair down your accessories, and invest in a few quality pieces.

- My brother makes fun at how many chairs we have in our home.  In some respects, chairs are rather afforable, and you can dress them up with paint, appliques, and upholstery.  They can be customized for your interior, so I tend to line them up on a wall, or feature them in a bedroom. In the past I have bought several dining sets, only to get rid of the table, and use the chairs.  Float your furniture in the center of the room and line up the chairs along the wall.

- Round dining tables can be used as demi lunes when cut them in half and anchor them to the wall.  Focus on tables that have great leg detail.  They always can be dressed up with paint and decorative ormolu.

- Gold makes everything richer, especially in dark interiors.  Mirrors or gold furniture tend to carry the light while dark painted walls eat up the light.  Crystals, mirrors, brass, silver, white frames, brightly painted abstract art all are great choices for very dark rooms.

-Seriously re-think painting your interior dark if you don't have enough windows.  A few years ago, I loved the look of an interior based on a rich navy blue color scheme that I found featured in a magazine so I jumped on the decision to paint our living room in a rental we were staying at.  After spending the money on the paint, and painting the entire room, I realized that the one floor to ceiling sliding french door wasn't enough light to carry off such a dark color.  We lived with the color for two days, and spent more money on covering the walls with yellow. Dark rooms really need to have lots of brigher accessories, and windows with lots of natural light to carry dark walls.

- The best dark interiors are those which have dark glossy walls, and are then covered up with dozens of art work or prints.  Consider lining up dozens of pencil sketches on aged ivory linen paper.  Biotanical prints, or aged sketches which could mimick a lighter colored wall when hung.  This also gives off a grand effect of master layering, because often times it is darker colored paintings on lighter colored walls.  Add in some brass wall lighting to illuminate the details of the painting.

-Collect antique books which you can display on a book shelf.  In this photo, bright red antique books are bound with natural twine.  Add the color with antique books.

-Choosing furniture that is upholstered in the same color tones as your walls.  If your walls are navy, consider purchasing a antique chair that could be upholstered in faux navy leather.   In this photo we see a mid century Herman Miller chair upholstered in black.  The painting in this photo adds rich color to the room.

- If you look at the photo of Annie Brahler's sons room, the ceiling is painted a slightly ligher hue than the walls.  Consider painting the ceiling a rich metal in the darker range of colors.  If your room is designed around dark greens, consider some metallic paint in green for the ceiling.

-In this photo, you can see how antique books provide the color for the walls.  Floor to ceiling bookcases are painted in black, giving this room a powerful look.  A heavily distressed table and white upholstered furniture provide the much needed light.

- Here is an exceptional example of a dark interior done right.  The walls, and bookshelves are painted in the same color tone.  A gloss is used for the floors in the same paint color.  The effect looks minimal because the colors all work together.  Consider using a slightly lighter color for the floor.  USE gloss somewhere in the room, either on the floors or the ceiling.  The reflective nature acts like light.

- Consider basing one room around a dark interior, while the adjoining room in a lighter based paint tone.  In this room, a paneled wall carries the black painted wall quite nicely.  In the next room, the white brings an added break to the eyes.

-Consider layering in rich lacquered furniture.  Wouldn't this Jacques Dubois cabinet look amazing against a eggshell red painted wall?

-Look at this interior where panelled drapes hang from the wall.  If your room is based around rich blues, consider hanging rich silk panels in peacock blue with gilt wood pictures layered on top of it.  Perhaps the frames can be hooked on to a chain that hangs from the top of the wall, which saves you from puncturing the fabric.

See more of Annie Brahler's home in House Beautiful.

Rich Empire Looks- May's House Beautiful Feature Story

Rich Empire Looks- May's House Beautiful Feature Story

Belgian Pearls blog posted some amazing pictures of photographer  Claude Smekens work.  His wife Magda Desmet, who is a stylist and decorator work for several renowned Belgian interior design magazines. Look at the deep colors in this classical interior.  Dark gray walls and stone flooring make rich gilt furniture and accessories stand [...]]]>

Classical Design -Photographer Claude Smekens

Belgian Pearls blog posted some amazing pictures of photographer  Claude
Smekens work.  His wife Magda Desmet, who is a stylist and decorator work for several renowned Belgian interior design magazines. Look at the deep colors in this classical interior.  Dark gray walls and stone flooring make rich gilt furniture and accessories stand out.  Rich woods, animal skin throws, marble and tortoise shells provide a rich nautral element to such a dark palette.

To see more of the work of this Belgian photographer,
please visit Claude Smekens Fotografie HERE.

More of Claude and Magda’s work, you will find at the
website of Magda : Magda De Smet Interior Styling HERE.

Classical Design -Photographer Claude Smekens

Classical Design -Photographer Claude Smekens

A Thoughtful Eye Blog posted some absolutely stunning pictures of Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse that originally appeared in House & Garden's Magazine issue in October 2006.  Former Ford model and television host Nina Griscom has had a passion for collecting while traveling.  The hobby turned into a full time [...]]]>

Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse House & Garden, October 2006

A Thoughtful Eye Blog posted some absolutely stunning pictures of Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse that originally appeared in House & Garden's Magazine issue in October 2006.  Former Ford model and television host Nina Griscom has had a passion for collecting while traveling.  The hobby turned into a full time business when she opened a store for decor on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

“My Manhattan store came about as a result of my passion for travel and my true desire to edit and share the information that comes across my plate with a wider audience. My happiest moments are spent in markets, antique fairs and villages which support craftsmanship yet unknown in our country. I am constantly on the hunt for unique, beautifully crafted items and furniture. I can only hope that I have my finger on the pulse. That quest keeps me on my toes.”

As you look into her home, you can see she has an eye for French Empire furniture and decor.  Empire furniture gives a stately, superior appearance compared to all other furniture.  Empire furniture often features incredible design, with superior woods and metals which adorn the furniture, so it is no wonder that many celebrities endorse the look.

Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse House & Garden, October 2006

Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse House & Garden, October 2006

Nina Griscom's Manhattan Townhouse House & Garden, October 2006

Elle Decor featured French Decorator Frédéric Méchiche, who had recently turned an office space into a grand, neoclassical apartment straight out of Versailles. The room was bathed in soft grays with exquisite architectural details. Marble columns topped with Medici vases make their mark in the entrance hall. [...]]]>

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

Elle Decor featured French Decorator Frédéric Méchiche, who had recently turned an office space into a grand, neoclassical apartment straight out of Versailles. The room was bathed in soft grays with exquisite architectural details. Marble columns topped with Medici vases make their mark in the entrance hall. 18th-century trompe l’oeil grisaille wallpaper panels are found in the bathroom. In the living room, gilded moldings and ornate chandeliers mix with contemporary art. Geometrical patterns adorn the floor, and dark saturated paint colors with hues of blue and gray are chosen for the walls. Color is brought in with greenery, and upholstery, while the homes interior and architectural details remain in neutral gray and blue.  Frédéric Méchiche's work originally was published in ELLE DECORATION France, and in the special issue of Elle Decor January February 2012.

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Style Furniture -Iron and Glass Accordion Side Table in Brass

CG Sparks sells this stunning iron and glass Accordion Side Table in Brass for only $169. Inspired by the timeless accordion table, this table can function in any environment. A mirrored top creates a bit of sparkle while the brass finish makes a warm tone.

This table was made in the deserts of northern India by artisans that for generations worked within the British military establishment. Since the departure of the British in 1947, this region's industry has grown from one of military support to that of world class handicraft and furniture. These are from a family of iron workers who have been in the trade for several generations. There are three brothers that operate this family business now. Their grandfather even helped manufacture airplane parts in the final years of the British occupation of India. This table is fixed in place it is not adjustable. The handcrafted touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design.

Inviting Home sells this idential Accordian Table for $730. Round Antiqued Solid Brass Table With 3/8" Glass Top 18" X 25"h

The added bonus of CG Sparks's Accordion Side Table is the design of the top is made in such a way that a custom piece of rounded marble could be made and fit into the top. It is several hundred dollars less than Inviting Homes table.

Napa Style sells an accordion side table in black which could also accommodate a piece of custom made marble. Their table sells for $79.

CG Sparks's Accordion Side Table is worth the extra money compared to Napa Style's table as the brass really gives this table a high end appeal.

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

Broyhill Ferron Court 5 Piece Pedestal Dining Set

Broyhill Sells an Empire Looking Set called -Ferron Court.

The 5 Piece Pedestal Dining Set collection features upscale style accents in a classic design that's sure to impress. Created with 18th century curved lines and updated antique brass hardware, the collection is a perfect way to bring classic and contemporary accents together in any home. The dining set includes dining table, 4 dining chairs. This terrific set is only $1377.00

French Empire Looking Furniture

Broyhill Also Sells Ferron Court Living Room Set- Round or square end tables available - $767

Ferron Court Dining Set - Dining Set includes dining table, 6 dining chairs. Table extends to 90'' with one 18'' leaf. $1726

Alina Antique Gold Mirror Leaf Elegant Console Table Kathy Kuo Home

Delicately composed, this console has a hand finished gold leaf base that is warm, while lustrous. Paired with a mirrored surface, this console is elegant with perfect proportions. Kathy Kuo Home sells this stunning table for $1400

Athena Dining Chair in Madeira Set of Two

This lovely Greek Klismos chair is sold in a set of two for $1283. Belle Meade Signature 4014S.MA features a madeira finish. -Frame construction: Mortise and tenon. -Kiln dried ash frame. -Greek revival style. -Single caned back.

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

Baroque Bench - High End French Styled Furniture

Inviting Home sells a wonderful baroque beechwood bench with hand-rubbed antiqued light walnut finish and gold leaf accents; 31-1/2"W x 18-1/2"D x 26"H; hand-crafted in Italy for $2650.00

Curved Accent Stool - French Egyptian Stylings

The Curved Accent Stool from Stein World is great as an extra seat in the home. Small and convenient to move this stool is great for a variety of rooms. The stool has a warm wood finish with nail head trim along the fabric. Stein World sells this bench for $208

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

French Empire Side Tables

The Aries Brass Marble Table is crafted of brass and marble for a very distinguished regal appearance. This absolutely stunning piece would complement any room or decor! Brass finished detailing with ram heads and subtle hooves at the base name our Aries table. Features solid black marble, not only once but twice for even more storage below. Avid Home Sells this table for $2038.

Cobble Court Home's Axminster occasional table has a round shaped paneled top that rests over tapering saber legs that are joined together by a shaped stretcher. Dimensions: 28" Dia x 28" H. Customize your table by selecting one of our five wood finishes: Light Walnut, Medium Mahogany (as shown), Dark Sable, Satinwood, and Silver Leaf (20% up-charge). This table sells for $1550

This chair is typical of the Empire period.  circa 1810-1815.  The color of the paint finish is a dark grey blue hue. 

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

Of the same model as the previous chair, this armchair has all its qualities and generosity. It differs in its arm-rests, which very prettily continue [...]]]>

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

This chair is typical of the Empire period.  circa 1810-1815.  The color of the paint finish is a dark grey blue hue. 

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

Of the same model as the previous chair, this armchair has all its qualities and generosity. It differs in its arm-rests, which very prettily continue the line of their curved supports, and are ornamented with a very fine sculpture of stylized lotus leaves

Beautiful Painted Empire Styled Chair

This pure Antique French Empire chair, with a powerful yet not heavy look, is typical for the taste of the early 19th century which is inspired by the Etruscan style and furthermore and mainly by the discoveries of Napoleon in the Egyptian expeditions. As you can see the pure white upholstery plays off the off gray painted finish.   This chair offers us turned front legs with ornamented extremities in the shape of stylised lotus leaves.  All Pictures were originally featured here.

A detail of the Dining Room of Brian J. McCarthy showing a Georges Jacob chair against a Venetian plaster wall- Picture Featured on The Devoted Classicist Blog Originally Seen in the January-February, 2012 issue of VERANDA magazine.

Venetian plaster is a plastering technique which [...]]]>

Empire Furniture Classical Interiors - Venetian Plaster Designer Brian McCarthy

A detail of the Dining Room of Brian J. McCarthy showing a Georges Jacob chair against a Venetian plaster wall- Picture Featured on The Devoted Classicist Blog Originally Seen in the January-February, 2012 issue of VERANDA magazine.

Venetian plaster is a plastering technique which uses a fine delicate layer of of lime plaster, which is then polished to give a glossy appearance. This type of finish is known as Venetian Plaster, Marmorino, and Stucco Lustro Veneziano and has been used throughout history starting in Egyptian times. Venetian Plastering was used by the Romans, and during the renaissance for decorating palaces and villas.

The composition of Venetian polished plaster is that of Marble dust & lime, and occasionally quartz dust is added.

The industrial process of making Venetian polished plaster involves heating limestone in kilns, which is then emulsified with water. The mixture is then left to age for some years. The result is a lime putty which requires exposure to air to cure.

After aging is complete the putty is mixed with a variety of materials to add decorative effects, commonly marble dust or quartz is used, and pigments are added to produce plasters of different colors. Exposure to the air will cure the plaster over a number of months and a durable finish is the result. The durable nature of the venetian plaster finish makes it very versatile. It can be used externally or internally, and in spaces where a less durable finish would quickly wear out.   Essentially limestone is turned into a putty which when exposed to air will harden back into a stone like finish

Recently polished plaster finishes have become popular and seen in particularly wealthy homes and office buildings.   The finish has been used  increasingly by leading architects & interior designers.  Venetian Plaster can be  suitable in almost all the rooms in the home: bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, lobbies, swimming pool walls & ceilings, wet rooms & columns.

Applications

Venetian plaster is applied with a trowel or spatula and then polished to produce a smooth surface which has an illusion of depth and translucence.

Professional decorative plasterers will charge a great deal to apply the finish for you, however its with effort & patience, you can apply this beautiful finish yourself.

What you will need

1 large trowel,1 medium trowel, and 1 small polishing trowel , spatula, primer, brush/roller, polished plaster mix. sealer, cloth, wax.

Preparing the surface for plastering

A primer needs to have a slight grit to ensure the plaster adheres to the surface.  Apply your primer with a roller, and allow it to dry for about 8 hours. The primer must be dry before plaster application.

Plaster application & Polishing

1st coat: Apply first coat using the large trowel so that it covers the surface, do not apply too thickly, and leave a slight patterning in the plaster. Leave overnight to dry.

2nd coat: Using the medium trowel lightly sand 1st coat to smooth any really textured areas and then apply the 2nd coat by using small rotating motions with the trowel, working from one corner to the other, in a methodical fashion.

Use as little plaster as possible, just enough to create an even smooth finish. Leave 8 hours to dry.

3rd coat: apply as for 2nd coat, Use even less plaster than before as you will be working on a smoother surface, work your way evenly and methodically across the surface with the small trowel, applying the thinnest possible coat consistent with covering the surface completely.

As the plaster dries, using an acute angle with your trowel smooth and compress the plaster using a cutting motion, this will give it a polished even glassy shine. Leave 24 hours to dry.

Sealing

The plaster effect can left in its natural state if desired. It can however be sealed, if the application is in an area subject to humidity, such as a bathroom. Sealing is achieved by applying 2 thin coats of sealer , the 2nd coat can be applied 1 hour after the 1st. Leave for 24hours at which point its possible to also apply wax to give the plaster added shine and protection.

Additional Rooms By Brian J. McCarthy

Classical Interiors By Brian J. McCarthy Seen In Elle Decor

Classical Interiors By Brian J. McCarthy Seen In Elle Decor

Classical Interiors By Brian J. McCarthy Seen In Elle Decor

This elaborate French Empire Barrel Mahogany Bergere features glorious Ram Head Mounts and is believed to be dated between 1830-60. This chair is a beautiful work of art with incredible swirled mahogany veneers. The crest is decorated with a vase over acanthus leaves, [...]]]>

French Empire Period Mahogany Bergere Arm Chair w/ Ram Mounts, circa 1830-60

This elaborate French Empire Barrel Mahogany Bergere features glorious Ram Head Mounts and is believed to be dated between 1830-60. This chair is a beautiful work of art with incredible swirled mahogany veneers. The crest is decorated with a vase over acanthus leaves, swirls rising from the vase to culminate in a four petal flower, each flanking a round floral motif, the square exposed arms wrapping around the back to terminate in incredibly cast Ram Head brass mounts. The arms flank a broad and quite comfortable upholstered seat, back and arms, each with a "bee" decorated upholstery. Sloped arm supports complete the frame, resting into a straight straight apron with pierced anthemion mounts flanking a round patera. The knees are topped by round patera designs as well, each front leg being square and tapered, the rear legs square and softly back swept, all terminating in original brass casters. This is a gorgeous chair and an absolute work of art. In quite rare form with all original mounts, each cast with incredible detail, this is a wonderful find for the collector of French Empire. It is sturdy in all joints with a strength throughout capable of enduring several generations with your family. It is listed on ebay for $3,775.00

French Empire Style Marble Top Side Table

This French Empire Style Marble Top Table, is a stunning piece featuring a solid
marble top, rimmed with a pierced brass gallery over a solid mahogany base.  A
round apron of mahogany is adorned with large brass mounts of a round floral
wreath flanked by anthemion designs, each corner topped with a five point star.
The top rests over three solid mahogany molded columns, topped by incredibly
well cast Caryatid solid brass figural mounts, terminating over detailed brass
feet.  The center of the triangular base has a round wreath, and the entire
table rests over three solid mahogany bun feet. This is a gorgeous table, masterfully executed and an absolute eye catcher.  It captures the French Empire period in every aspect of the design, and works flawlessly in any French inspired room.  This is a must have for the decorator and collector alike.  This table is listed for $2,075.00

Tcs02186 on ebay has some outstanding examples of Empire Salesman samples worthy of any sophisticated private or museum collection.

This miniature child's continental Empire inlaid mahogany chair features shiny ormolu mounts, and beautiful lines.  The chair is likely to be French in nature and dates to approximately 1860-80. [...]]]>

Miniature Childs Empire Ormolu Mounted Inlaid Mahogany Armchair

Tcs02186 on ebay has some outstanding examples of Empire Salesman samples worthy of any sophisticated private or museum collection.

This miniature child's continental Empire inlaid mahogany chair features shiny ormolu mounts, and beautiful lines.  The chair is likely to be French in nature and dates to approximately 1860-80. They also have listed a miniature Empire commode with bronze mounts which look spectacular together.  This set would make a spectacular gift to a grandchild or a unique family gift that can be handed down for many generations.

The chair is made of mahogany and the back and up-swept arms are inlaid with boxwood or satinwood string inlay.  The back is decorated with an ebonized panel with an ormolu wreath in the center,flanked on each side by a reclining woman in the neoclassical style. The other is playing a lyre and holding a table.  The end of each arm has an ormolu mount.  The inside of each arm also has a similar ormolu mount.  The seat of the chair has a removable rectangular upholstered cushion which sits firmly between the arms.  Below the seat on the front of the chair is another ebonized panel, this one decorated with an ormolu urn.  This piece is a fine example of the highest quality of craftsmanship.

Miniature Diminutive Mahogany Commode c. 1850

This miniature diminutive mahogany commode c. 1850 is made of solid mahogany with beautiful graining.  The rectangular top sits above four rows of two short drawers each.  The drawers each have their original mounted gilt bronze drop handles.  The drawers are separated by a vertical piece of mahogany decorated with a scrolling gilt bronze mount.  Flanking the drawers are two spectacular gilt and embonized bronze neoclassical figures in the Egyptian revival style.  The commode stands on square tapering legs.  The two front legs are decorated with small bronze mounts.  The piece is extremely well made.

Eva Jeanbart Lorenzotti founder of Vivre.com travels the world in search of artists that create beautiful home furnishings, clothing, jewelry, and gift items.  Native of Switzerland, Lorenzotti set out 17 years ago for America, and since she has built a mini-empire, generating about $50 million a year by retailing luxury [...]]]>

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home

Eva Jeanbart Lorenzotti founder of Vivre.com travels the world in search of artists that create beautiful home furnishings, clothing, jewelry, and gift items.  Native of Switzerland, Lorenzotti set out 17 years ago for America, and since she has built a mini-empire, generating about $50 million a year by retailing luxury goods in catalogs and online.  Lorenzotti started Vivre in 1996 as a thin mailer featuring just three brands. Just like any business, success comes with hard work and determination.   She connects one of a kind treasures with unique buyers interested in rare objects.  Today, Vivre's pages are filled with unique exotic wares from around globe.  Lorenzotti is quite accomplished, but she isn't an over night success.   Lorenzotti is a graduate of Columbia University and began her career as an investment banker at Lazard Freres, and is fluent in five languages.

Eva Jeanbart's home is as polished as the gems she finds, although it still remains hidden for the most part.  Her closet has been featured in Domino magazine but the rest of her home hasn't been photographed.  Habitually Chic Blog posted some wonderful pictures of her home which showcased her beautiful polished geometrical patterned floor.  She was also photographed in Gotham's March 2008 issue, standing against an exquisite table.  Jeanbart-Lorenzotti lives in Manhattan with her husband and their two children.  For more reading check out Lonny Sept 2011's Interivew with Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti.

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home Gotham Magazine

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's Empire Decorated Home

Art Deco Demilune Console Table From Antiqueria Tribeca

Macassar Ebony Wood

Maccassar Ebony Maple Zebra Snare Drum From Falling In Between Ebay

Empire Furniture & Decorating Ideas Black Marble Floors Polished Wood

Black Ebony is an exotic species probably best known in [...]]]>

Empire Furniture Ideas- Demilune Console Table with Macassar Ebony and Ivory Banding

Art Deco Demilune Console Table From Antiqueria Tribeca

Macassar Ebony Wood

Maccassar Ebony Maple Zebra Snare Drum From Falling In Between Ebay

Empire Furniture & Decorating Ideas Black Marble Floors Polished Wood

Black Ebony is an exotic species probably best known in it's use for musical instruments.  Its amazing striped pattern of real blacks and dark chocolate browns is an irresistible draw for those who love wood.  Ebony finishes to a beautiful sheen, with limited time and effort, making it very high end looking.  This exotic wood is also known by the names Calamander Wood, and Variegated Ebony .  The picture above shows an entire wall and door crafted out of Macassar Ebony, which is a striped Ebony.

Information on macassar ebony is relatively limited. It is an ebony from India and the East Indies and varies in the colour and has such a dramatic appearance. There are 100's of types of ebony worldwide, but most are only shrubs, and only one found of the species is found in North America called the persimmon tree, which is used in the manufacture of golf clubs.  The trees today are rare to find c0mpared to many years ago, and are much smaller than the size 20 year ago.

I am so thankful for my brother who pointed me in the right direction with this wood!!  Thank you K!

Macassar Ebony Klismos Style Chair By Hinson & Company Featured on Veranda

Macassar Ebony Klismos-Style Chair by Hinson & Company Featured on Veranda

I always enjoy a new picture featuring klismos chairs seen in this picture designed by David Kleinberg which perfectly captivates how shapely klismos chairs are.   It is also really exciting to discover another designer who decorates in period style.  Kleinberg tells New York Social Diary much [...]]]>

Empire Furniture & Decorating Ideas - Klismos Chairs - Designer David Kleinberg

I always enjoy a new picture featuring klismos chairs seen in this picture designed by David Kleinberg which perfectly captivates how shapely klismos chairs are.   It is also really exciting to discover another designer who decorates in period style.  Kleinberg tells New York Social Diary much of his inspiration is from France- Paris to be exact- "I’m so predictable. My favorite city is Paris. It’s painfully beautiful. It’s been my favorite city since I was 14. I shelved books in a public library for two years to afford a trip when I was 16. I remember walking through the Left Bank until I could get to the river and I literally wept. I’m a total Francophile. I love how impossibly difficult they are."

Set of Six Klismos Chairs

Antiqua Interiors is selling a set of 6 Biedermeier Klismos styled chairs in in a piano black lacquered finish.  This set of 6 features the famous  curved concave lacquered backs above an upholstered set supported by four squared tapered saber legs.  These chairs have the sophistication of Bierdermeir style whole at the same time having a generous seat and inviting comfort.  Antiqua Interiors is selling this set for just under $1,700

If you are inspired to see more of David Kleinberg's work check out his book Traditional Now: Interiors by David Kleinberg, which features more than 20 of the designer’s stunning projects.

See more of David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest.

David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest

David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest

David Kleinberg’s Manhattan Apartment Seen in Architectural Digest

Jennifer for Peak of Chic has some wonderful pictures of the new opening of the Greystone estate in Beverly Hills, which she snapped during the opening of the Maison de Luxe Opening Night Gala Event.  Timothy Corrigan's room stood out to be one of the most striking [...]]]>

Empire Decorating Ideas -Greystone estate in Beverly Hills

Jennifer for Peak of Chic has some wonderful pictures of the new opening of the Greystone estate in Beverly Hills, which she snapped during the opening of the Maison de Luxe Opening Night Gala Event.  Timothy Corrigan's room stood out to be one of the most striking to me.  Marisa for Stylebeat she took a close up of the terrific floral arrangement on the coffee table which seemed to be the highlight of the room.

Phalaenopsis w/Glass Vase

Uttermost Sun Star Watergarden Faux Florals

Empire Decorating Ideas -Greystone estate in Beverly Hills

Luciano Pitcher by Match Pewter

In a world dominated by mass production, Match pewter is handmade by artisans in Northern Italy. Its classic forms harmonize with both traditional and modern settings, recalling celebrations at well laid tables. Each piece bears a stamped symbol from the region in which it was made.  Match Pewter Small Rimmed Vase

This brightly painted blue chest goes to show how striking a chest can look painted.  This chest features many beautiful carved details which are magnified with this rich blue paint.  I don't think there could be another drawer pull that looks as amazing as the lion pull on this chest. The lion pulls look [...]]]>

Classical Empire Furniture Painted

This brightly painted blue chest goes to show how striking a chest can look painted.  This chest features many beautiful carved details which are magnified with this rich blue paint.  I don't think there could be another drawer pull that looks as amazing as the lion pull on this chest. The lion pulls look exceptionally large on this particular chest that they may not be drawer pulls but in fact door knockers.  If you want a heavier hardware look, consider door knockers as some knockers actually resemble drawer pulls.  If you consider painting a chest add some bright brass pulls to add contrast against the painted finish.

Neoclassical Silver Leaf Swan Arm Chairs

When I first saw this picture of the Château de Groussay featured On The Peak Of Chic Blog I thought this room was incredibly dated.  I scrolled on forward to Jennifer's endless beautiful pictures, and found myself going back to the photo I just judged so harshly.  [...]]]>

Château de Groussay From The Peak Of Chic Blog

When I first saw this picture of the Château de Groussay featured On The Peak Of Chic Blog I thought this room was incredibly dated.  I scrolled on forward to Jennifer's endless beautiful pictures, and found myself going back to the photo I just judged so harshly.  I found myself mesmerized by the rooms amazing floors!!  Stark white is often a color you see in Empire furniture, and it looks absolutely wonderful paired with white based fabrics that have a punch of color.  Empire decorating is known for the really vibrant colors, which is often seen in upholstered Empire furniture.

This picture reminds me of the very sought after Biedermeier styled furniture that is based on the lighter woods such as blond woods and birch which were found around the Scandinavian areas.  Biedermeier furniture stretched forth from Stockholm, Sweden and and encompassed Germany, Russia and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The floor in this photo would be absolutely stunning if it was combined with the lighter colored Biedermeier furniture.  The floor combines the perfect combination of wood, and painted features that look much like the geometrical pattern that we so commonly find in Empire decorating.

Empire Decorating Painted Floors

Now if you look at this picture and the picture above of the Château de Groussay, you will see, they are almost identical.  The grid of the white and black is much larger in the Château de Groussay compared to the pattern in this picture that was featured in Elle Decor.  Both floors are amazing, but if I were to choose, I do think the added detail of the natural wood really adds to the overall look, and the overall width of the box pattern looks better larger.

Empire Decorating Ideas: Stunning Geometric Flooring From Simply Irresistible Designs Blog

Empire Decorating Ideas: Stunning Geometric Flooring From Simply Irresistible Designs Blog

Empire Decorating :Geometric Floor By Dean Barger Studios for Eric Cohler

Kay Douglass and Dixie Peeples' Wine Cellar

Kay Douglass and Dixie Peeples' Wine Cellar From Peak of Chic Blog

Geometric Painted Floors Seen on Million Dollar Decorators

Geometric Painted Floors -Mary McDonald

This picture has got to be one of the most striking I have seen in some time.  The marble tub itself is a show stopper all on its own, but look how the marble floor picks up the beauty in the tub.  The bold green wall colors work [...]]]>

Empire Decorating Ideas- Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

This picture has got to be one of the most striking I have seen in some time.  The marble tub itself is a show stopper all on its own, but look how the marble floor picks up the beauty in the tub.  The bold green wall colors work really well with the orange accent marble in the floor because the colors are opposite on the color wheel.  THEN to top it off, what sort of colors would you add into a room with green walls, white marble floors with orange?  A black gilt Regency/Empire chair really shows off a richness with the stark black paint against the white flooring.  The yellow is again very typical of Empire decorating, and so is green.  This designed room is very very rich, and uniquely decorated in an Empire design.

Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

Empire Decorating Ideas- Marble Bathtub From The Enchanted Home Blog

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

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Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY with very classical architectural lines.  Some of the pictures remind me of Robert [...]]]>

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY

Astor Courts, a 15,000 square foot estate in Rhinebeck, NY with very classical architectural lines.  Some of the pictures remind me of Robert Adam's classic style and use of marble, classic columns, and marble tiled flooring.  Picture Credits- Things That Inspire Blog

Some of the most beautiful pictures featuring Empire furnishings are from Interior Designer Scott Snyder. With over 30 years of interior design, his attention to detail is incredible.  You have to wonder how long an inlay (or stenciled?) floor would take such as the picture above.  [...]]]>

Neoclassical Interiors Interior Designer Scott Snyder From Architectural Digest Magazine

Some of the most beautiful pictures featuring Empire furnishings are from Interior Designer Scott Snyder. With over 30 years of interior design, his attention to detail is incredible.  You have to wonder how long an inlay (or stenciled?) floor would take such as the picture above.  The collection of antique empire furnishings make this home incredibly prestigious and one of a kind.  The combination of mahogany furniture, marble and gilt accents makes this home just beyond stunning.  The blend of classic stylings such as the marble busts and the pedestals really propell this room and all Snyder's rooms to a new height.  What makes Scott Snyder a bit different than most designers is his use of high end antiques and his ablilty to combine several elements together for a realistic period design.

Neoclassical Interiors Interior Designer Scott Snyder From Architectural Digest Magazine

Neoclassical Interiors Interior Designer Scott Snyder From Architectural Digest Magazine

Stantonsburg Antiques is selling a rare exquisite Empire Mahogany Full Sleigh Bed with Large carved Paw Feet. They mention that they often see twin sleigh beds from the late 19th century but rarely a period full sleigh bed from the early 19th [...]]]>

Rare Period Federal Empire Mahogany Full Sleigh Bed w Massive Paw Feet c1830

Stantonsburg Antiques is selling a rare exquisite Empire Mahogany Full Sleigh Bed with Large carved Paw Feet. They mention that they often see twin sleigh beds from the late 19th century but rarely a period full sleigh bed from the early 19th century! This stunning bed measures a total height at the head-board of 51 1/2inches, height of the foot-board measures 23 inches,the height to the flat portion of the side rails measure 13 inches, The outside measurements of the bed are 55 1/2 inches wide by a total length of 91 inches,and the inside mattress area measures 52 inches wide by 70 1/2 inches long. This is a very heavy, well crafted bed that is very solid and tight and is just as pretty from the back as it is the front and would be fantastic placed in the center of a large bedroom allowing this early 19th century bed to be the focal point! This sleigh bed has wonderful sloped , graceful lines that allow this bed to resemble a real sleigh as it was designed after. The bed rests on four large carved paw feet each having acanthus leaf carved returns. This is a rare,unique find, and this period 1830's Mahogany Sleigh bed is ready to take its place in your home.

A dealer at one time was selling a large selection of Empire Furniture From the Stanley Weiss Collection on ebay and I managed to save some of my favorite pictures. The fabrics on the various settees were just incredible, along with the veneered furniture. This collection [...]]]>

Neoclassical Tables, c. 1820 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

A dealer at one time was selling a large selection of Empire Furniture From the Stanley Weiss Collection on ebay and I managed to save some of my favorite pictures. The fabrics on the various settees were just incredible, along with the veneered furniture. This collection is certainly very desirable!

Classical Bureau Stenciling, c.1840 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Bow-front Chest Philadelphia, c.1830 From The StanleyWeiss Collection

Exhuberant Carved Mahogany Classical Sofa, c.1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Bow-front Chest Philadelphia, c.1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection on Ebay

Carved Mahogany Classical Sofa, Phyfe School c.1810 The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Carved Bookcase on Stand, Baltimore, 1835 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Gilt Stenciled Rosewood Piano, L. Whiting, NY, 1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection on ebay

Carved Worktable, New York, c.1820 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Classical Mahogany Card Table with Bird’s Eye Maple The Stanley Weiss Collection

Neoclassical Sofa Eaglets & Lyres c1830 From The Stanley Weiss Collection

Unforths PhotoStream has a number of stunning Empire styled furniture that are just marvelous.  These chairs are attributed to the workshop of John Finlay (1777 - 1851) and Hugh Finley (1781 - 1830?)Baltimore c. 1815 - 25 Maple with painted and gilded decoration

Center Table is Labeled by Anthony G. Quervelle (1789 - 1856) [...]]]>

Empire Furniture

Unforths PhotoStream has a number of stunning Empire styled furniture that are just marvelous.  These chairs are attributed to the workshop of John Finlay (1777 - 1851) and Hugh Finley (1781 - 1830?)Baltimore c. 1815 - 25 Maple with painted and gilded decoration

Center Table is Labeled by Anthony G. Quervelle (1789 - 1856) Philadelphia c. 1830 Mahogany, ash, pine, yellow poplar, marble, brass, and painted decoration.

Robert Fisher

Robert Fisher

Possibly by Robert Fisher (active 1824 - 37) New York City 1825 - 35 Ebonized mahogany, mahogany, mahogany veneer, gilding, bronzing, stamped brass ornaments, and glass (also pine, poplar, cherry)

Girandole Mirror

Stunning Directoire Style Furniture

This lovely picture by Charles Spada shows the beauty of laying with white.  Here you see pecan stained hardwood floors, which coordinate perfectly with the ornate gilt picture frames with white mountings.  You see a simple bench with animal print upholstery fabric which nicely brings in an [...]]]>

Period Empire Decorating - Picture Credit Charles Spada

This lovely picture by Charles Spada shows the beauty of laying with white.  Here you see pecan stained hardwood floors, which coordinate perfectly with the ornate gilt picture frames with white mountings.  You see a simple bench with animal print upholstery fabric which nicely brings in an Empire look.  The simple hand drawn portraits give a primitive yet simplistic look that is easy on the eye.  The gilt wall mount with a greek key design really makes this room look prestigous.

Period Style Decorating - Regency Empire By Tom Hayes

Tom Hayes also shows us the beauty of white and gold next to each other. Here we have gilt frames on the wall next to a Gilt Eagle Convex Sconce Mirror. This look is very sophisticated.