Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Portuguese Kitchen



While in Portugal I discovered this charming "old world" kitchen. The many original details of this rustic space really speak to me. Would like to utilize many of the details in a new outfitted kitchen. Thought I would share. The home of Mercedes Merces.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Courtyard Garden Design In Beverly Hills.


This spectacular courtyard between the Montage Hotel and Thomas Keller's Bouchon restaurant in downtown Beverly Hills California is the masterful design of famed landscape architect Nancy Goslee Power. What a delightful public space for anyone to enjoy. It is the perfect European environment right here in California. Brava, Nancy your are a genius!

Shades of green plantings in the garden and in pots give the garden interest and subtle color.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Decorative Pillows Go Anywhere!


Pillows with Sunbrella fabric go anywhere; on the bed, on a sofa, chair, bench, chair. They can be used inside or outside and you can add Sunbrella trims to the front with gimp or with brush fringe or cord. These are available through Miles Talbott and with the superb tailoring and hidden zipper no one will know if you change them out and wash with a cup of bleach if you have had a nasty spill. They can add a punch of color, texture or pattern to any room or patio. Amazing! Economical way of redecorating.

Furniture for Small Spaces.


I designed the Talmadge collection for Gat Creek specifically for small spaces. These solid wood pieces, built in America are perfect for most any size room. I especially like the graceful curves of the legs. These pieces are available in many finishes and can be modified to fit your needs. That is the beauty of having product built right here in West Virginia. The Sofa and Chair (part of the Maxfield group for Miles Talbott) are also scaled for smaller spaces.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Restoration in Sintra, Portugal


This former monastery in Sintra, Portugal was re-configured by Portuguese designer Senora Graca. What a masterful design job. Her client was looking for a vacation home just outside Lisbon and Graca found just the site. Interesting frescoes (some original) throughout the house and views of the Atlantic from a spectacular pool and pavilion. What a pleasure to visit Sintra; truly one of the most serene villages of Europe with some of the most beautiful homes I have seen in my travels.The original monestary from the side entrance.


Saturday, June 26, 2010

Vertical Garden in Beverly Hills, California


I have never seen such an unusual living wall mural as these succulent living vertical gardens at the Four Seasons Hotel, Beverly Hills. Truly a work of art these subtle colors of many varieties create a spectacular effect on the patios of the hotel. A series of frames covered in moss with a water system keeps these designs alive and healthy. This is a very effective use of wall space and a wonderful idea for any garden.



Friday, June 25, 2010

Decorative Arts Center, Lisbon, Portugal


In my travels, I am always amazed at how many art foundations and institutions are doing major work to save some of the world's most beautiful examples of a country's Decorative Art.

The work of the Decorative Arts Center in Lisbon is amazing. A team of artisans are repairing and saving some of the most precious Portuguese decorative artifacts. Housed in and around this former mansion, the work is tireless as they employ ancients crafts to save these pieces.



Thursday, June 24, 2010

Moveable Garden

Why not a group of favorite plants in pots that can go anywhere in the garden? I use these pots and plants to fill corners, dress tables, become focal points and bring architecture to a side table. They are great travelers.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Sunrbella Fabric Selections


Certainly one of my favorite parts of the design process is developing the line of fabrics for Sunbrella and product for Miles Talbott (this week June 23, 24.) We get together to select (from hundreds and hundreds of options) the fabric line for Miles Talbott and for the market place. This involves many pre meetings before we get together but it decides what we will be doing for this year, next year and beyond. Pictured (left to right) Greg Voorhis, designer Sunbrella/Glen Raven; Emily Cosgrove, designer Sunbrella and George Jordan, President Miles Talbott. There is always a celebration that evening when mission is accomplished!



Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Flexible Furniture

I like furniture that can easily change its' look and with our Xavier desk I designed for Gat Creek you have many possibilities; here are only a few. Not to mention choose from Oak, Walnut or Cherry and many custom stain options...the choices are endless. It is also nice that all my wood designs are Made in America, right here in West Virginia. For more information you can call Gat Creek at 304-258-2343.


Monday, June 21, 2010

New Signature Sunbrella Style


The New Wong Bed adds grace and style to any bedroom. Available in all sizes. Covered in Sunrbella Trax/Cadet it is the perfect complement to my Signature/Grey pattern to celebrate our Tenth Anniversary of the Joe Ruggiero Collection. Available for delivery from Miles Talbott Furniture.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Happy Father's Day & More



Today I pay tribute to my family: my wife who made me a Father and my children who have made every Father's Day memorable. I also pay tribute to my Grandfather Angelo (mustache) and my father Charles. These extraordinary Italian/Americans came to this country to seek a better life and they have instilled in us all a love for this country and all it has to offer. Happy Father's Day to all Fathers...it is a special day for us all!My Father pictured below on his wedding day and with his father as a young boy with the look of wonder which he carried all through his life and which he passed on to me. Thanks Dad!