Bohemian Rhapsody

All photos from The New Eighteenth-Century Style Book

The other day I was looking through some of my decorating books and had forgotten what a great inspiration "The New Eighteenth-Century Style: Rediscovering a French Décor" by Michele Lalande is. This is a must-have for anyone that loves an eclectic mix from different periods. "In modern usage, the term "Bohemian" (sometimes shortened to "boho") is applied to people who live unconventional, artistic lives." I think the Bohemian lifestyle is captured in this treasure of a book. From old weathered books and amateur portraits to modern lucite furniture and sculptures, these objets are mixed together in vignettes that work beautifully.
A home should be unique, interesting and reflect your own style. We've seen trends from Shabby Chic, Hollywood Glam, Hollywood Regency and many more. Trends come and go but the classics always remain. Chic Modern Minimalism appeals to many but my own personal style is a mix of different periods. I never wanted anyone to walk in my home and feel like they're on a stage set or stepped back into a specific decade. If you buy classic pieces from any decade they will never go out of style.

I just acquired two industrial metal dressers offered on my website. This book shows a photo of the same dresser with old artifacts and coral in an off-beat Bohemian way. Fabulous! No decorating rules or "how to" instructions, just find items you love and pair them together for a true Bohemian magic and eclectic home!
The New Eighteenth-Century Style: Rediscovering a French Décor can be purchased here at Amazon.com. Enjoy!

Neoclassical Style

photo from 1stdibs.com

I was recently reading a post on Poppytalk's blog on Neoclassical design trend that inspired me to write about it.

Canadian House & Home's 2008 Trend Issue shows some fun, current images of decorating with Neoclassical style. I just love the look and have vintage pieces in my home and offered on my website.

Originating in the late 18th Century, Neoclassical design is inspired by the architecture of Ancient Greece and Rome.

photo from 1stdibs.com

photo from 1stdibs.com

Neoclassical furniture is characterized by restrained, symmetrical design and tends to be rectangular. Art Deco is a decorative style emerging in the 1930's from French origins and inspired by a Neoclassical influence.

photo from parishotelboutique.com

I just love the Greek key motifs, geometric shapes and lines of Neoclassical design. I think Canadian House & Home has it right. It really isn't a trend though. It can be integrated in any decor from modern to traditional and never go out of style.

photo from 1stdibs.com

photo from parishotelboutique.com

This is my favorite acquisition! A vintage Neoclassical style chair from the famous Crown Room at the Fairmont Hotel atop Nob Hill in San Francisco. It is quite rare and dates to c. 1960. I have some in my home and was thrilled to acquire this. The "magical" Crown Room was renovated in the late 1990's and is now used for meeting and conferences. I acquired my first "Crown Room" chair at a flea market many years ago and have been on the "hunt" ever since then! Ten years later, I have 4 in my home and one offered on my website. I left the original paint in tact and had them upholstered to match the original upholstery. Sorry that these lovely chairs are no longer at the Fairmont, but happy to have my own! They are the epitome of Neoclassical design and with the hotel history, I couldn't be happier!