One my favorite inspirations in design is the inevitable link to the past. Especially since I came into the design world through a degree in the history of decorative art, I am so inspired when I see objects from so long ago which would are so perfectly in style and current today!

I fell in love with the above bowl from the collection of the Corning Museum of Glass; the beautiful translucent deep green glass bowl was created sometime between the 9th and 10th centuries in Western Asia, likely in Iran. I love the scalloped edge, embossed motif featuring birds (also so in right now!) and of course the stunning color. Even though this bowl is at least 1,000 years old it would be amazing in an interior today - just as it is!


Here are a few modern pieces I loved as a way to bring emerald glass into your home - as I am pretty certain the Corning Museum wont be letting this beauty go any time soon!

 I would love to own these elegant emerald Murano glass and brass table lamps! They are Italian, circa 1970. From Amarcord Fine Decorative Antiques via 1stDibs.com.

Kawali green cut glass goblet by Christofle.

This dappled green glass vase is by Venini, available via Michael C. Fina.

Vibrant cut crystal emerald candlesticks from Marvin Alexander Antiques via 1stDibs.com from the late 19th century.

I thought these were an especially wonderful Etsy find! A set of 1950's vintage Anchor + Hocking plates in green glass. They would look great mixed in with a simple white dinnerware set too! From Tinted Vintage in York, PA.

A Boston Goblet by Villeroy and Boch in a lovely shade of green.

Pedestaled vintage candy dish - another great accessory steal on Etsy for just $8! From Easutton Vintage.

And lastly, I had to include this dining room designed by Jay Griffith - the green glass makes the room - oh, and the ibex head and driftwood table is pretty amazing as well! {Photo by Jeremy Samuelson for House Beautiful}.

{First image courtesy of the Corning Museum of Glass}

Chateau Living

After living down the street from the stunning Chateau de Fontainebleau for almost a month now, I feel pretty spoiled. Even from the outside, the proportions and the architectural details are so beautiful and classic. Since sadly, I will have to leave, I found myself searching for chateau inspired interiors which might let me take some of this style home! I think these rooms are wonderful - all traditional and certainly a bit French but with modern bent which makes them livable for today! 

A bath by Steven Shubel in House Beautiful. Amazing golden orange color he found for the walls!

A cozy yet stately family room by Cathy Kinkaid. The sisal carpeting and floral sofa help lighten up the space. 

The dining room in designer Amanda Nisbet's own New York home -  I think the table setting is fantastic (especially like the touch of the pale blue taper candles!).

A dining area from Living Ect. (designer not noted unfortunately) The contemporary table and chair, along with the whitewashed floors, really give the space a modern and breezy feel.

A luxurious master bedroom by Michael Smith, featured in Architectural Digest. The wall covering is by Brunschwig & Fils and the bed is a 19th century Italian antique.

Here's to chateau living!