top tables

we thought this photo project was interesting, especially in the context it's taken in.  with the world economy doing so poorly, and europe's finances on the brink of collapse, this photo journal by Jacqueline Hassink demonstrates the evolution of the conference room within all of this.  enjoy!

Top Tables

doors

Not just a portal to the interior of the house, we think front doors are like a handshake- a first impression for anyone coming into the home/church/store/establishment.  They communicate a lot with just their presence; strength, style, personality; and they foreshadow what's to come on the interior.  Too often in America front doors are overlooked as a utilitarian item, and rather than being hand carved or custom made to fit the space and offer a grand welcome to visiters, the cookie cutter model on sale at home depot is purchased, and the charm of the entry is lost forever!  This is why we decided to make our first entry about our most recent trip to europe about the doors we encountered.  The doors, surrounds, hardware.  No detail is too small to take into account, they are what give these doors so much character and what draws a visitor in.

surf & sand

I know I promised some photos of Croatia and Italy, but I am still working away on editing them!  Next post, no excuses!  This time I wanted to share with you this hotel I came upon today, from a link in the ASID email newsletter.  As annoying as Paris Hilton and her mini dogs are, it looks like her family is actually doing some good for the world.  Their fourth hotel in Thailand has just opened and it is stunning, in a completely unexpected way.  The simplicity of materials and color really give focus to the concept: ocean currents.  This is such a refreshing take on the overdone "beachy" look.  For some reason creativity is starved in this area of design- sand, seashells, linen, cute nautical touches, the whole thing just makes me sick!  I do love the beach and live near it, but I have never understood the need to bring it so literally into the interior environment (unless you're throwing a kick ass luau with flaming mai tais or something).  The irregular and soft waves of the fabric ceiling treatment are beautiful, as well as the carpet which mirrors it.  The furniture is luxurious, the entry is grand and intimate at the same time, and the pool area is divine.  The lighting design is very impressive- some fixtures are almost evocative of jellyfish.  All of this without being so gaudy and obvious.  No aquariums or dried starfish in sight!  I want to be there now..  Click here to be transported to the oasis yourself.  (man, Hilton should pay me to give this good review! I would take a free stay instead!)

new Thailand Hilton Hotel

and did I mention it is sustainably designed?!