French Rattan Bistro Chair

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The French rattan bistro chair is a favorite of mine.  Not only is it a total classic, but it's virtually indestructible, and totally kid proof.  These multi-colored pieces have been gracing city sidewalk cafes for years.  We usually see them paired with a tiny wrought iron bistro table (and a cappuccino).  I love these chairs for their wonderfully graphic woven designs, their strong wooden frames and sturdy rattan seats. 

And, let's face it: this chair is never going out of style.

via TradHome

Victoria Hagan via Elle Decor

via House Beautiful

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via Ashley Whittaker

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via House Beautiful

via Nate Berkus

bistro chairs at The Paris Market from our recent trip to Savannah, Georgia

If you're in the market for a French rattan bistro chair, check out TK Collections.  Sold only to the trade (you'll have to order these through a designer or furniture rep), the selection at TK is excellent.  Barstools, chairs, armchairs, and stools...  they even sell the classic wrought iron cafe table!  I'm telling you, this company stocks the best versions of this chair:

barstool

square side chair

bistro side chairs at TK Collections

(I'm loving all the different patterns and colors!)

There's also a company called Cap Sud who sells bistro chairs made by the French company, Maison Gatti.  Like TK Collections, these guys have a great selection:

Maison Gatti French rattan bistro chairs

And, if you're looking for a bargain? 

You can get a set of 4 chairs at Overstock.com for less than $450.00!

bistro chairs at Overstock.com

image from TK Collections

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Inspired By: Chris Barrett Design

Chris Barrett's personal home was featured in the new issue of House Beautiful.  Her kitchen also made the cover.  Located in Brentwood, California, this 1,050 square foot bungalow was built in 1929 and still features loads of original Spanish charm.  From the original tongue-and-groove ceiling to the plaster walls, Barrett had a lot to work with when she bought the place.  She eventually installed the wide plank flooring, gutted and built a brand new kitchen, added French doors, and landscaped the backyard (creating a fabulous garden space).

I personally LOVE the way that Barrett mixed true antiques with modern pieces, creating a lived-in look that feels comfortable and functional.  This is something I'm always trying to achieve in interior design, and I think that she's done it so successfully.  Who wants to live in a space that feels forced or contrived?  Nothing should be too precious and everything should tell some sort of story.  I love the bright white walls, dark wood finishes, and timeless materials like white marble and porcelain subway tiles.  Love that farmhouse sink in the kitchen... and that dining banquette!!!  Can we talk about that? The chandelier, the bamboo windsor chairs... it's ALL so good.

And, let's not forget that this space is just over 1,000 square feet!

(love this shot!)

Not only is Barrett's personal home a design inspiration, but so is her professional portfolio.  I thought I would share some of my favorite images on the blog today.  So, enjoy!

To see more of Chris Barrett's portfolio, click HERE.

*all images were scanned by me, or taken from the Chris Barrett Design website.

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An Inky Inky Blue

Love that inky inky blue wall.  With crisp white trim.

And, the pinstripe.  Love that pinstripe.

image found on elements of style

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Regency Inspired Dining Room

About a year ago, I worked on a dining room makeover with a wonderful local Philadelphia client.  Inspired by the glamorous spaces of Mary McDonald and Windsor Smith, we set out to create a Hollywood Regency style space that was fancy enough for the best dinner party, yet comfy enough for family game night.  While this particular design never came to fruition, I've always loved the design board and thought I would share it on the blog today...

Our inspiration images included:

Windsor Smith

Mary McDonald

left image from Atlanta Homes

right image, "Walking at Palais Royale" Mark Shaw Fashion Photo 1959

And, we came up with something similar to this:

resources (counter clockwise):

chandelier from Circa Lighting, dining table from Plantation LA, faux bamboo dining chairs from Jonathan Adler, pair of vintage faux malachite lamps from 1st Dibs (available at Downtown), starburst mirror from Mecox Gardens, vintage Dorothy Draper dressers on 1st Dibs.

fabrics included a green tweed, snow leopard cotton, and embroidered knot. 

All available through Kelly G. Robson Design (contact me for details).

I'm still in love with that saturated green, and I'm dying to use it in a future project.  What do you think?

Happy Thursday, design lovers.  :)

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Cindy Crawford + Michael Smith = Malibu Dreamhouse

I realize that this feature from Elle Decor is practically ancient in blogging terms (isn't it from a 2006 issue?), but Cindy Crawford's Malibu home still ranks as one of my absolute favorites in terms of interior design.  Designed by world famous (and Presidential) interior designer, Michael Smith, this phenomenal beach house is the pinnacle of traditional meets eclectic design.

I posted the poolside image (above) last week, and all of a sudden a flood of inspiration came back to me.  I just had to revisit this incredible project so we could all swoon together...

It's just so good. 

Happy Tuesday, dolls!

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