A Guest Room in the Attic

I'm currently helping a Philadelphia client of mine furnish her attic bedroom, and it's turning into such a fun project.  One of the wonderful things about living on the east coast is that we have these fabulous attic spaces!  They feel like hidden retreats with little nooks and crannies, sloped ceilings, and exposed beams.  And the views from the third floor are really fun (it feels like you're looking out of a tree house).  Of course, they're ideal for children (what little one wouldn't LOVE hiding out up there?)...  but, attic spaces can also make incredibly chic rooms too.  My client will be using her space as a guest room (as well as a small workspace/retreat for her husband). We're looking at comfy wing chairs, and masculine desks, simple bedding, and lots of layers...  I'm looking forward to seeing the finished result.

In the meantime, here are some of my favorite attic bedroom spaces for inspiration.  So simple, yet so cozy.  Your guests may never leave...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Cannonball Beds

The Cannonball Bed.  It's a classic that never goes out of style.  Featuring the iconic ball-shaped finials and scrolled headboards, these beds are whimsical and sophisticated.  I like them because they work with traditional interiors as well as modern.  You'll never get sick of them, and you'll never regret buying one.  A little history...

Cannonball beds first became popular during the Federal period (circa 1780 to 1830), and are easily recognizable due to their unique designs which feature ball-shaped caps or finials on the top of the bedposts. During this time, the cannonballs on the posts were said to symbolize patriotic enthusiasm after the Revolutionary War.
 

Isn't that a fun bit of history?  The ball-shaped caps represent American patriotism!  It doesn't get any better than that, if you ask me.  :)

 

 

 

antique twin cannonball beds

reproduction, with the rams ear scrolled headboard

 

 

via 1st Dibs

 

 

 

 

If you're interested in buying an antique or vintage cannonball bed, I recommend visiting your local antique stores or checking Ebay on a regular basis.  There are great finds to be had if you stay diligent! 

 

However, if you're looking for a cannonball bed with a fresh look, check out the colorful options at Ethan Allen!  Their Quincy Bed comes in a variety of great colors and wood finishes (thanks House Beautiful for the heads up).

 

 

Quincy Bed in turquoise

 

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Thom's Lake House (second edition)

I'm calling this post, "Thom's Lake House (second edition)" because this is the second time I've posted about a Skaneateles Lake house, owned and designed by Thom Filicia.  The first time we visited this topic, was back in 2009.  That house was stunning, and perfectly livable, while still feeling tailored and polished and preppy (my favorite combination).  Thom's newest Skaneateles acquisition is also amaaaaazing and is featured on the cover of House Beautiful this month.  I am a huge fan of Thom Filicia and think that he has a tremendous perspective on interior design. 

I'm devouring every photo of this home-- check out my favorites...

This room is crazy-- love the wallpaper, mix of pattern and color, excellent upholstery fabrics, modern furniture, cushy seats, etc, etc, etc.

   

Hello, navy linen upholstered walls!!  And, Thom's stunning dining chairs that he's designed for Vanguard Furniture.

 

 

Rope railing and seagrass runner-- perfect for a lake house.

I've seen Thom use Phillip Jeffries wallcoverings in many of his designs.  I suspect that this woven paper is from that collection (maybe it's this one?).

 

 

Love those walls, that ceiling, and the black barn-style door.  Also, I really like how Thom mixes colors and patterns, but everything remains within a similar tone.  It's good.

 

 

dogs & a lake view

 

Insanity.  I'm liking this modern group (and would never guess that this shot was from a lake house, would you?).  That terrific console is one of Thom's designs for Vanguard.

 

Panelled ceiling, wallpapered walls, black doors and windows.  Incredibly chic mix of color.  Love the modern furniture and different wood finishes (plus, that pop of red).

 

So much to see in this room.  The chairs are to die for.  Of course, he designed them.

(also, the ottoman coffee table)

 

 

boat dock and fire pit!

 

 

I bought Thom's book, Thom Filicia Style, back in 2009.  And over the years, I've referred to it repeatedly for inspiration and fresh ideas.  As a result, the cover is partially ripped and it's full of dogeared pages and blue post-it notes (not joking).  Now, I am SO EXCITED to see that he has a NEW book coming out next month.  We can buy it here.  

 

American Beauty: Renovating and Decorating a Beloved Retreat

(I must have it.)

To see more pictures from the House Beautiful feature, click HERE.

 

 

Also, a note to House Beautiful:  Thank you for bringing happiness to my life and filling my heart with joy.  The newest issue does not disappoint.  I love every feature, and every single article.  Keep it up.  :)

 

 

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Current Inspiration

Lately, I've been really inspired by fancy, formal spaces with an unexpected twist (a la Miles Redd).  Hello deep color, rich fabrics, and fancy rooms that still feel a little quirky.  Lavish and over the top, bring it on.  I love you so...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you're into spaces like this, you should check out the tumblr page The Foo Dog Ate My Homework.  Clever name and ENDLESS inspiration.

 

 

 

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