Currently Coveting | Fouta Towels

This bathroom designed by Bailey Quin of Peppermint Bliss is just about the cutest thing I have ever seen!  The entire space is beyond gorgeous but it's the stack of green towels that really got me thinking.  When it comes to my bathroom I’m partial to the look of white linens but these beautiful handwoven Fouta towels by Scents and Feel have me seriously rethinking my “white towels only" rule.  Available in dozens of colors and stripe variations their softly textured natural cotton suggests a certain Mediterranean feel I simply can't resist.  Here, Bailey used a chartreuse hand towel and a stack of large stripe towels in veronese green — Thank you Bailey for reminding me that yes, there is life outside of white!
Image: Emily Anderson via Peppermint Bliss

A-Stylish A-Frame

Stylish.  One word I never thought I'd use to describe an A-frame house.  When I think "A-frame" visions of dark 1970s ski chalets and the Brady Bunch house seem to dance around my head.  It has never conjured up images of chic interiors.  That is until today.  The interiors of this A-frame are luminous and airy, with sisal carpeting, a vintage rug, pale wooden walls, and clean-lined furniture.  The natural tones and hints of coral and lavender are soothing and serene.  I imagine this room feels cozy and bright even on the most grey spring day.  In fact, it has completely changed my perception of what an A-frame can be.  Void of any dark wood beams or mounted animal heads, the A-frame is spacious, light and dare I say...modern?  Love it!
1. David Weeks Cross Cable Mobile Chandelier | 2. Dutch Scroll Arm Day Bed By Lawson-Fenning | 3. Coral Glazed Silk by Hollyhock | 4. Ikat Pillow Cases |5. Danish multi-wood coffee table, Nickey Kehoe | 6. White Ceramic Vase by West Elm | 7. Vintage Rattan Side Chair | 8. Sisal Rug | 9. Pasajes Rug

Image: Dean Kaufman for InStyle Magazine May 2011, scanned and edited by Kristin Kerr for Simply Smitten

Currently Coveting | Over-dyed Vintage Rugs

Isn't this living room rug absolutely gorgeous?  There is not one rug from the ABC Carpet Color Reform collection that I would not love to have magically appear in my apartment.  These vintage carpets, which have been neutralized then over-dyed a solid color, make a striking background and really liven up any space.  Below are some examples of my favorite over-dyed rugs available at ABC Carpet, Loom Rugs and Ebay...amazing, no?

ABC Carpet Color Reform

ABC Carpet Color Reform

Loom Overdyed Vintage Rug

Angel Rugs via Ebay

Image: Thomas Loof for Architectural Digest May 2011

Eggcellent!

Wishing you a happy and stylish Easter! 

In need of some last minute decorations?  Check out these decadent designer Easter eggs on Vogue.com!

I'm seriously coveting the Eddie Borgo gilded egg — isn't it lovely?

Opulent Interiors

This editorial from the March issue of Vogue Russia stopped me in my track last night.  Isn't it lovely?  It's hard to focus on the clothing when the interiors are so gorgeous..and historic.  Shot in the recently refurbished and restored Romanov Palaces of St. Petersburg — Jason Schmidt was given the coveted exclusive of being the first to photograph these elaborate parquet floors, giltwood moldings and opulent wallpapers in over 100 years.  It makes me want to hop on the next flight to Russia!

images picture central

Manhattan Studio

On days like today, when the sun is shinning but it's still a bit chilly out, I would love nothing more than to lounge in a room like this.  It looks like an ideal place to spend a leisurely day with only the necessities - tousled white sheets, a cozy cashmere throw, a reading light and a stack of books.  The rustic green tone of the beautiful blanker paired with the toasted toffee color of the vintage leather chair add just the right amount of warmth.  And despite the simplicity of the space, the juxtaposition between the modern nightstand and traditional gilt mirror is striking and keeps things exciting.  Wouldn't it be lovely to have a large steel window like this in your bedroom?  Preferably with views of Manhattan...
Image: Tom Delavan 

Feeling Feminine

I don't consider myself overly girly but for as long as I can remember I've always wanted a vanity.  As a kid I loved watching my mom sit at her vanity everyday and apply her makeup.  There's something about the routine of sitting down and taking time to get ready that seems so glamorous.  This tiered vanity skirt designed by Ryan Korban is the epitome of chic.  I can only image what kind of products are hiding under those ruffles — La Mer, perhaps?

Image: TRAD Home

Runway to Room | Poppy Print

So I know I’ve blogged about my love for solid textiles a couple of times now, but these prints are giving me serious heart palpitations. Michelle Smith and Sara Gilbane’s designs embody a modern sensibility and vintage vibe that I simply can’t resist. Their ability to give new life to traditional pieces with modern fabrics and styling is quite inspiring. Here, Michelle paired a tailored floral coat with a turban and Sara updated a classic corona with a bold poppy print (Lallarookh by Brunschwig & Fils) and a coordinating suzani. I never would have thought of mixing saturated florals and tribal elements but these look prove it can be done…and look chic!
Images: style.com and sara gilbane

Design Hunter | Chicago Botanic Garden Antiques Fair

Happy Monday!  Despite the cold weather, the weekend couldn't have been more lovely and as usual, it went by too quickly.  On Saturday I woke up bright and early and  made the short trek up north to the Chicago Botanic Garden Antiques Fair.   My mom and I spent several hours walking around more than a hundred booths including one of my favorites T. J. Antorino above.  Before I share what I bought, I thought I would give you the highlights of the show.  I hope you had a wonderful weekend!

Jeffrey Henkel + Brennan & Mouilleseaux Antiques

A lovely Neoclassic collection in Alessandra Branca's booth.  I was tempted to pack up the entire table setting - including the Bagues ship chandelier- and bring it home with me.  Stunning, right?

I was seriously considering purchasing this zebra hide from Bleeker Street Antiques — I love the rich toffee color.

A chic pair of pineapple lamps from Settings, Inc and a fabulous Baker chest of drawers with lion head pulls from Giant Mushroom Company's. 

Photos by Kristin Kerr for Simply Smitten

French Favorite | Café Chairs

Time to let the sun shine in, it’s Friday!  Any weekend goals for your home? Mine is to find a new apartment — preferably one with a dining room or kitchen island so that I can complete my new year’s goal of eating dinner like a lady (not in front of the tv). I filed this images away as inspiration for chairs that might work well with a small bistro table — ideal dining for two.  A French favorite, these classic rattan and rilsan café chairs can be seen on traditional bistro sidewalks and terraces throughout Paris.  I'm in love with their bold colors and beautiful weave designs.  Chic, chic, chic.

Marshall Watson and Ashley Whittaker

Peter Pennoyer

John Oetgen

Victoria Hagan

A few sources in case you too have a hankering for a bit of Paris:

Maison Gatti Bistro Chairs: Available through Annick de Lorme and Cafe Society

Poitoux Rattan Chairs: Available through, Glacseat.com

TK Collections

Beaufurn

Help! Ikan't Stop...

Do any of my dear readers know where I can find this lovely ikat fabric? Ikan't stop thinking about it...and ikan't help a good pun!  It was love at first sight when Oscar de la Renta sent it down the spring 2008 runway then my love for it only grew when I spotted it in this bold bedroom designed by Miles Redd.  If you know where I can find even the smallest remnant please email me at kkerrdesign@gmail.com 

Image by Thomas Loof for NYMag

Smitten | Trad Home Vignette

Can we just discuss the amazingness that is Trad Home magazine?  I mean, really. My brain is about to explode due to inspiration overload.  I could gush on and on about everything I love but instead I'll just share the one image I found most inspiring.  I'm absolutely head-over-heels in love with this elegant carved desk and faux bamboo chair vignette designed by Lauren Gold and Sasha Adler. This is the perfect example of how to mix pieces from different eras and regions — a French Maison Jansen brass chair and Swedish silver lamps — to create a layered look.  The pair of lamps flanking the craved wood desk add symmetry and make these modern pieces feel more traditional. The stack of old books, framed picture, mint julep cup filled with ranunculus (my favorite), and marble obelisk add another layer to the space and give it a sense of personality and history.  Seriously Smitten. 

I bought this chair at Jayson Home and Garden last year and was contemplating painting it a high gloss black, now, I'm thinking it needs a touch of gold! 

Mad About Hue | Leopard + Blue

I love clicking around NYSD House archives and see the way people really live.  It's like a posh version of the selby.  Brian McCarthy's wall-to-wall leopard carpet by Stark is my favorite thing in his home. Doesn't it look lovely against the robin's egg blue walls? I wonder if he was inspired by Ms. Madeleine Castaing.

Candy Colored Kitchen

This candy colored kitchen designed by Penny Drue Baird is so scrumptious I could almost eat it!  It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on this kitchen in the May issue of Architectural Digest (the entire issue is amazing).  The combination of white lacquer cabinetry, thick statuary marble counters and candy colored walls gives off a fresh feel that I just can't get enough of — but it's the large snowflake sputnik chandelier that really stole my heart.  I can picture myself sitting in the corner banquet watching the morning news while sipping on my morning coffee.  Do  you love it as much as I do?

Image: Simon Upton photograph scanned by moi from Architectural Digest 

Design Hunter | Antiques on Old Plank Road

This weekend, in need of a little inspiration, I ventured just west of downtown Chicago to Antiques on Old Plank Road.  One word for this store — HEAVEN!  I could've spent hours searching through the 30,000 square feet of European treasures.  I wasn't looking for anything in particular during this trip but the chest of drawers pictured above really caught my eye.  I was immediately drawn to it's worn oak finish and the original blue paint still lingering on it — amazing considering it's from the 1700s.  And it's as versatile as it is beautiful, it could be a side table next to your sofa with a lamp and big mirror above it or it could be used as storage for gloves, scarves, dog leashes and keys in your entryway.  It's a piece that would last a lifetime.  Feeling inspired?  Below are more of my favorite find...Enjoy!

I'm absolutely obsessed with this exquisite pair of vintage Italian scrolled iron side chairs and their amazing alligator upholstered seats.

I overheard the Sam, the incredibly friendly salesperson, telling another couple that Old Plank has the largest selection of antique French club chairs in North America - pretty impressive.

This stainless steel and bronze kitchen island is just one of the many custom-made piece available at Old Plank.  Gorgeous, yes, but it's the antique French lady's writing desk with the original leather top and ebonized finish, pictured below, that really sent my head spinning.  This petite table would work well in a bedroom as a vanity with the addition of a mirror and a modern stool or as a desk.  Paying bills from a desk like this would feel so much more glamorous, don't you think? 

The store is expecting a new shipment of French antiques sometime this week — looks like another trip is in order...who's coming with me?

Images by Kristin Kerr for Simply Smitten

Inspired Interior | High Gloss Bar

It was love at first sight when I saw this stunning living room bar in the new issue of High Gloss magazine. I’m obsessed with the Midas gold-dipped carafe and the Waylande Gregory pineapple vase, and the beautifully skirted table is equally appropriate for a small dinner party or just mixing a drink. Inspired by Cathy Echols' lovely design, I’ve gathered some items that offer a similar juxtaposition of traditional and modern. To achieve this look, try playing with textures, mixing silver and gold, shiny and matte, high and low, old and new.  And of course, no bar is complete without a punch of color!
Unglazed Porcelain Vase with Marbleized Clays | Ballard Designs Skirted Table Base | La Fiorentina by David Hicks in Gray | Midas Glassware Collection | Green Wine Glasses at Chic Shop | Christofle Silver Plated Vertigo Tray With Handles | Waylande Gregory Pinapple Vase | Martha Stewart Collection Ice Bucket with Tongs | Vintage Brass Bowl at High Street Market 
Cheers to a great weekend!

Currently Coveting | New Arcadia

I think it's safe to say these hand-drawn Leopard Highball glasses by New Arcadia were made for me. Bright hues, 22K gold and leopard — really, what’s not to love? The only question is which color?  I’m leaning towards the orange, but the white may go with more. Decisions, decisions...

Domestic Tranquility

There is something about this living room that leaves me absolutely speechless. Perhaps it is the luxuriously rich hand-blocked Zuber wallpaper and floor-to-ceiling windows, the herringbone floors and saturated green rug, the oversize Venini colored-glass chandelier and it’s dazzling red crystals, or maybe it's the absence of clutter and sense of tranquility designer Ilse Crawford created.  Whatever it is, I’m in love, love, love!

Smitten | Rococo Chic

I’m smitten with this Rococo Print Skirt by Tibi. Smitten. The volume, the length, the richness — isn't it perfection? And to top it off, it bears a striking resemblance to my favorite Hermès Balcons du Guadalquivir china! I adore the way Leandra (The Man Repeller) paired this feminine frock with python booties and a leather tee — lovely in the most unpredictable of ways.

Ideal Dining | Garden Party

Party of two on the patio! My wretched taxes are finally done – time to spend that money and have some fun!  There’s nothing more ideal than a spring weekend out on the patio enjoying the warm weather and sipping something delicious.  Alfresco dining season is upon us and my little city deck is in need of a major spring spruce up – time to change out the pillows, dust of the chairs..maybe even add a patch of grass or two.  
Steven Meisel for Vogue Living Spring 2008 | Paper Lanterns | Red Thistle Pitcher | Goto Gold Bubble Piccolo Glass | Rediscovered Flatware | Matahari Round Placemat | Verdant Acres Dinnerware | Pintuck Cushion | Haute Culture Chlorophylle Mini Garden | Richard Schultz Topiary Bench | Jardin de Marie Outdoor Armchair and Table

Elegant + Enchanted

This weekend I’ll be attending Ms. See Jane’s shower and bachelorette party, so I’ve got weddings on my mind…leave it to Martha Stewart to publish the wedding of my dreams! I’m absolutely enchanted with this Great Gatsby inspired Bridgehampton wedding. I’ve always dreamt of a small wedding under a tent in the middle of an orchard, with vintage china and cascading blooms…just like this.  

To create the dreamy setting, every detail was thoughtfully crafted and lovingly designed so it felt as if it had been on the property for decades.

English parasols and peacock covered fans helped guests fend off the summer heat.

A rustic table filled with artisanal cheeses, grapes, vegetables, and baguettes was set up for cocktail hour. The couple wanted guests to feel like they were strolling through the countryside and suddenly discovered an amazing market.  Liquor was poured in to decanters found at Williams Sonoma.

My Favorite detail - A faux white peacock tucked into the peak of the tent, along with overflowing flowers and greenery.  Mercury glass vessels overflowed with white peonies and fragrant geranium leaf covered long tables.

Table numbers and menus, painted by Bernard Maisner,were nestled amongst arrangements of white peonies, 'Patience' roses, passion vine, ferns, 'Garden Snow' spray roses, and English lavender.  Notice the mix-and-match china and gold rim glasses....isn't this what wedding dreams are made of?

Wishing you an extraordinarily enchanted weekend!