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Bargello

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Precision of language is important.  So, we will add some precision to your vernacular by defining “bargello.”  “Bargello” denotes a needlepoint stitch that forms a zig-zag pattern.  For ease of reference think: Missoni.  This Italian design family litters their collections with hints of bargello—though not all in needlepoint.  The word allegedly originated in the 1920’s in reference to particular stitches in upholstered chairs housed in the Bargello Museum in Florence, Italy.  The chairs below are available on 1stdibs.

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MY NIECES (in part).

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Can you believe it?  I adore these pictures; they are humoring me at this point—the one with the camera.  And, really, its pure gluttony, I have three others just as beautiful.  This isn’t even to broach the subject of my nephews.  Well, only a small diversion from design; I couldn’t help myself.

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Better Homes and Gardens

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My sweet girlfriend recently gave me the book below.  It is choc’ full of good advice, both for today and when it was printed in the 60’s.  It rests on my coffee table, ready and able to educate the next willing reader.  Great book.

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Christmas—Never too Early.

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I’m trying to be strategic in my thinking this year.  I never tire of Christmas—the decorations, buying gifts, enjoying family.  This year I’m going particularly themed, perhaps in coordination with my place.  My little place is homey, but not in a Tennessee Christmas kinda way.  So, instead of fighting it, we are going to work it.  As inspiration, I’m going to make the wreath below, from Martha Stewart Living.  I haven’t decided on the color of the ribbon.  But, I know I’m doing the white on the sweet gum fruit.  With gold, chocolate, and creams, the tree will be well on its way in coordination.  Perhaps my pop color will be burnt cinnamon or deep pink.  It will hang inside my door.  So. Exciting.

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Naeem Khan

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Claire Watson, of 1stDibs, credits Naeem Khan with creating a  “…new fashion classicism for powerful women who love luxury.”   It is hard to find fault with his gowns (from Khan’s Fall 2011 Collection).  Perhaps, their singular fault is the absence of occasions for which to wear them!  The paisley is my favorite; a dress meant for dark hair and ivory skin.

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Jonathan Burden

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In a 2010 interview with Jonathan Burden, an acclaimed antique dealer and furniture maker, when asked to define a “well appointed room,” he responded:

A Levels of things, levels of surface and of age. Things that are antique and modern. I don't like clutter. Things have to have space around them as well; you can't just shove everything into a room. Things need a chance of light to hit something. A well-appointed room includes objects and sculpture, idiosyncratic things, conversation pieces. You want someone to walk into a room and say, WOW! I never would have thought that works and it works well. If you can do that, you have got a well-appointed room.

I could take a cue from Burden’s call for “space.”  But, of this, I am becoming increasingly more conscious.  Check your things’ space!

Jonathan Burden owns Jonathan Burden, LLC, and has a shop on Hudson Street in Tribeca (Hudson Street also houses a ridiculously good southern eatery-Bubby’s-one of my favorites!).  He also has a 1stDibs store.  Good place to look for interest and finery.

Photo courtesy of Jonathanburden.com.