The Devine Life

Back from Paris

2012-01-31T10:43:00.000-05:00

Paris was amazing. It never disappoints me. Worked a lot and played some, what could have been better? I do have several fun posts to get up over the next week. I am going to start with some shots of the two places that I adore the most in a city where there’s so much to adore. The Pont des Arts and the bibliotheque de Mazarin.

I have wonderful memories of the bibliotheque de Mazarin from my student days in Paris. It is where I went almost every afternoon to study after class. It was also the building next to the apartment where we stayed on the Quai de Conti. I have to say an apartment on the Quai de Conti is very easy to get used to.

Of course in front of the Mazarin is the wonderful foot bridge, the Pont des Arts. It was drizzling and the reflection of the lights on the bridge was very poetic. To complete the scene someone had left a dozen white roses on the bridge. Perhaps they were lovers, and had just added another padlock to the bridge, as they do in Paris.

A couple crossing the bridge, I wonder what their story is?

Off to Paris!

2012-01-13T21:28:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be going to Paris this week. Seeing old friends and visiting my favorite places. It won’t be all though vacation. I am going to show my new fabrics during Paris Deco Off at Holland & Sherry. If you are in Paris be sure to stop by, I will be in the showroom Friday and Saturday.

Thank You Lindsay Coral Harper and House Beautiful

2012-01-12T21:21:00.001-05:00

It was so fun to see the talented Lindsay Coral Harpers project featured in the current issue of House Beautiful. I have been a longtime fan of hers. It was an additional pleasure to see she had used Petite Fleur in Sea on the backs of the dining room chairs in the opening spread. What a great way to start the New Year!

The New Chair

2012-01-05T21:53:00.003-05:00

A New Year and a new decorating project! We have needed another chair for the living room in the country and we found this one recently that fits beautifully. The chair is really comfortable and has great lines. Now the hard part: choosing the fabric!

I am trying to be careful, because as most people have experienced one small change can quickly turn into redoing the entire room if not the entire house. Clearly something I’d rather avoid with everything else that is happening this year (like the book).

The lines are great.

The color is easy it will either be wedgwood blue or string, but the pattern choice is more difficult. I am very partial to Victoria in wedgwood, but maybe I should do it on the cream ground?

Venice is bold and Pinwheel is fun and subtle, particularly in string.

The repetition of Petite Fleur could be great as well.

Then again, I just struck off this new version of Combray in two colors. This is one of the new designs I will be showing in Paris at Deco Off for the first time in two weeks. I am really liking the two color combination of wedgwood and lichen together.

Hmm which way to go? That is the question.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T19:27:00.000-05:00

Here's to an amazing and stylish New Year!

A New Year an Amazing New Project

2011-12-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

As the year draws to a close, I am preparing for a really exciting and fun new project. I am doing a book! It's going to be a lifestyle book about my garden in Kinderhook throughout the four seasons.

It’s not only about the garden, but also how we entertain: parties, dinners, brunches, lunches and everything in between. The book will also include a variety of forty to fifty of my favorite recipes: sweets and savories, hot and cold, simple and tasking.

So as 2012 fast approaches I will be busy throughout the year cooking, tasting, gardening, entertaining, shooting, writing and fretting all the way through. Can’t wait!

Best of all, the esteemed house of Rizzoli is publishing it in Spring of 2014!

Oh! Christmas Tree

2011-12-23T09:53:00.001-05:00

Our Green Valley Christmas Tree

Christmas decorating is something I have a love hate relationship with, love the sparkling lights, glittering ornaments and the fond memories. Hate the process of getting it. The scouting, shopping and transporting usually involves some level of trauma drama especially in New York City. The nine foot tree we always have plays a central role in this disdain, especially after what happened two years ago: three stands, three trees, two tip overs and numerous installers visits to get the perfect tree. Let me tell you about a Christmas tree like no other.

Went to the farmers market, to choose the first tree. Tree was delivered. Doorman grumbles mildly. The tree was too big for the stand. Frantically ran around the flower district for two hours looking for a new stand. Came home with super deluxe guaranteed not to tip over frightfully expensive stand. Installed tree, hate tree, go back to farmers market. No returns or exchanges. Take tree down cut it up for greens. Ended up with enough greens to do the White House.

Tree two arrives, doorman crumbles a bit louder and men installed tree in super duper stand. Five minutes after the tree was completely decorated. Crash. Tree falls. Water everywhere. Gallons. So much for super duper stand. Tree men come back, righted the tree, promised us it wouldn’t happen again, leave, hours later crash, more flooding. Back they trotted. Up it went. With cables that time. Tree lists. Tree lists some more. Trunk of tree was splitting vertically. Another more expressive call to the tree vendor, Rockefeller center tree installers arrived (really, the tree man also does Rockefeller Center), another tree, one very grumbling doorman, another new stand. Up it went, up it stayed. It is all very memorable indeed.

The tree loaded with favorite ornaments.

So this year when I was approached by Heather Raney to try one of her clients trees I jumped at the chance. She represents Green Valley Christmas Trees, a company that sells fresh trees online. The trees are hand selected, cut and shipped within 24 hours of harvesting. The fact that it is preselected and comes in a nice, neat tidy box sold me. I am back in the doormans good graces this season.

It couldn’t have been easier. Opened the box and out popped a beautiful fresh, perfectly shaped tree. It has been up for a week with no tipping, listing, falling, splitting, flooding what so ever. I have found tree nirvana. What more can I ask for from Christmas?

I have a collection of these clowns that I have cherished for years now. Sadly they are not standing the test of time well. Out of a dozen we have one complete one left.

My friend Suzanne had this made for me a couple of years ago. It has become one of my favorite ornaments.

Various meaningful ornaments collected over the years.

Did I also mention Green Valley Christmas Trees does beautiful wreaths? The wreath like the tree is perfect. It arrived in a nice box waiting for us to decorate it. We decided on gold grape clusters and red feathers for this years wreath to frame our view of the Empire State Building, Met Life and New York Life buildings.

Have a happy holiday one and all!

Thank you Knight Moves

2011-12-22T16:25:00.001-05:00

It was a great surprise to see a post about my fabrics on the very stylish decor blog Knight Moves. I really like Kyle’s clean and fresh design sense. It marries well with my own idea of updated traditional that I strive to express through my fabric collection. Many thanks Kyle!

Mocha Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

2011-12-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

Who doesn’t love a thick rich hot chocolate on a cold winter day? I make this Mocha Cinnamon Hot Chocolate whenever I need a fix of bonheur. It always reminds me of the chocolat chaud that I get at Le Flore sur L’Ile whenever I am in Paris.

A good hot chocolate starts with the best chocolate available.

Mocha Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

2 1/2 cups of water

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup sifted cocoa unsweetened powder

1- 3.5 oz bar of 60% chocolate in pieces

1- 3.5 oz bar of 90% chocolate in pieces

1 tablespoon Instant expresso

1 teaspoon Cinnamon

1. Bring, water, sugar, cocoa powder, instant expresso and cinnamon to a boil in a 2 quart saucepan. Stir to mix.

2. Lower heat and mix in chocolate pieces and simmer for 15 minutes stirring from time to time.

3. Strain through a fine mesh sieve.

4. Let rest for several hours and reheat in a double boiler.

5. Enjoy!

Thank You House Beautiful

2011-12-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to be a part of this months Send Us a Picture column in the December issue of House Beautiful. Thank You!

Vintage Holiday Decorating

2011-12-16T10:30:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite entertaining books is House & Garden’s Complete Guide to Creative Entertaining. This vintage book is an amazing source of inspiration for just about any type of party one could think of giving. With the holiday season in full swing, here are some of the more striking ideas I found in the book to help deck the halls.

This is a French Christmas. The blue and white interior is a great background for the red, green and gold. Love the gold tinsel garland.

This breakfast table is simplicity itself, the center piece is made up of cartons of red and white currants.

Another centerpiece that caught my eye. So easy and fast to just fill a beautiful silver bowl with red and silver ornaments. Presto instant style.

I think there’s something very festive about using purple, orange and fuchsia for the holidays. This would be an unexpected palette for a holiday open house or even New Years.

While decking the halls why not go all the way? Don’t forget the chandelier chain.

The old stand by, candy canes. How chic is this basket filled with boxwood and fruit decorated with candy canes?

Tartanscot Holiday Decorating Contest

2011-12-14T09:48:00.000-05:00

Who doesn’t like being rewarded for something they love to do? My friend Scot Meacham Wood aka the Tartanscot is hosting his annual Holiday Decorating contest. Here’s your chance to be rewarded for all that creativity and hard work that goes into making a house festive for the holidays.

The contest will be judged by tastemakers Ronda Carman, Grant K. Gibson, Tobi Fairley, Kathryn Greeley, Megan Arquette and myself. I know I can’t wait to see the entries!

So go ahead and take some photos and send them in. Hurry the contest entry deadline is December 16^th.

Lemon Tart

2011-12-13T11:29:00.000-05:00

Last winter I posted about my Meyer lemon tree and its beautiful fragrant flowers. Much to my surprise after spending the summer in the garden the tree produced a rather bountiful harvest this fall. So finding myself with about a two dozen unexpected lemons, I decided to use some of them to make a tangy tart. I really love this recipe because it strikes just the right balance of sweet and tart. I think thats the ideal for a Lemon Tart. Yum!

Lemon Tart

1 Pate sucree

Filling

Zest of 3 lemons finely grated

⅔ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)

1 cup powered sugar

⅔ cup creme fraiche or sour cream

3 eggs

3 egg yolks

Powdered sugar for dusting

Preheat oven to 400. Line the tart pan with the pate sucree letting the crust extend over the top of the tart pan. Line with parchment paper and dried beans and blind bake for 10-15 minutes. Let cool.

Reduce the oven to 375.

Beat the lemon juice, zest and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Add progressively the creme fraiche until all is smoothly mixed, then add the eggs and the yolks one at a time.

Pour mixture into crust and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. The filling should be slightly golden. If it browns too much cover with aluminum foil.

Let the tart cool then refrigerate. Right before serving dust with sugar. If you do it ahead of time the sugar will dissolve on the tart. I know it happened to me.

Tip: Let the lemons set out 30 minutes to overnight before squeezing. You’ll get more juice out of them.

Thank you Aerin Lauder and Vogue.com

2011-12-08T22:10:00.000-05:00

Upholstered walls are my favorite.

A few weeks ago I found myself wondering if Aerin Lauder had redone her Hamptons bedroom. Not a topic many people would give much thought to, but since it was one of the most memorable fabric orders in my career, I was curious to know. It didn’t take too long to find out. A few days later gorgeous photos of Ms. Lauder’s Hamptons house appeared on Vogue.com shot by the talented Claiborne Swanson Frank.

Among the many beautiful images of the interiors and Ms. Lauder, there are two photos of the bedroom with the Gramercy fabric in situ in the story. It was great to read the accompanying caption “One of the hardest things for me is to turn off my mind when it comes to work, but I really do try to relax out here,” says Lauder of retreating to her bedroom. “This is the only place I truly sleep well.”

I am so glad the fabric worked out!

Clearly a master upholsterer worked on this project. The matching of the patterns between the wall and the headboard is amazing.

The New Website

2011-12-01T22:18:00.000-05:00

The new and improved Michael Devine Home website is up! This fall I had the great experience of working with the very talented designer Shari Miller of Little Blue Deer to redesign the site. There is animation throughout the site which is accessible across all platforms, that is something that I wanted to add for sometime. Her ideas for the store have much improved the shopping experience and made it easier to view my new collection of trays and accessories just in time for the holidays.

What I am most happy about is the fabric viewer and its “Lookbook”. The redesign has made it easier to navigate the collection and has a clearer layout to see all the information for each fabric. There is even a tab called “The Process” which shows step by step how the fabric is printed.

In addition to all these amazing new features, we are excited to now be offering complete interior design service. The process from start to finish is overseen by us and our team of talented crafts people to create beautiful and functional rooms. Take a look and let me know what you think!

Thank You Pretty Pink Tulips

2011-11-10T08:39:00.000-05:00

Thank you Elizabeth for the warm review of the presentation I did for your garden club, The Little Garden Club of Rye. It was a treat to read it first thing this morning. No one had a better time than I did.

After the presentation the charming and delightful Stephanie Hoover had Elizabeth and I over for an amazing lunch. We discussed next summers visit to my garden for the garden club and perhaps doing a tour of the gardens of the Loire Valley next year. What wasn’t to love? It was really a wonderful day.

Tastemaker Tag Sale Tonight!

2011-10-25T09:06:00.000-04:00

Tonight is my One Kings Lane Tastemaker Tag Sale. Be sure to check it out at 9 pm EST. There is an amazing selection of small cuts of my fabric, napkins for the holidays and some of my favorite finds.

The white pedestal that I used in the Berkshire Botanical Garden exhibit, along with the McCoy pieces and a selection of the books pictured, are some of the many things on sale tonight.

Madeleine Castaing, The Film

2011-10-19T16:33:00.000-04:00

During the recent market at the D&D Building in New York, I went and saw my friend Charlotte Moss present her new collection for Fabricut. Afterwards she introduced me to the film maker and photographer extraordinaire, Christopher Flach. Immediately I knew he was the man behind the 2007 short film of the iconic French decorator Madeleine Castaing. He graciously offered me a copy of his oeuvre. The film offers an amazing look at Mme. Castaing by those closest to her during her life. I was so intrigued by it that I wanted to know more. So I reached out to Christopher with a couple of quick questions and these are his answers.

What intrigued you enough about Madeleine Castaing to do a video of her?

I had always wanted to create a film about an iconic women. One afternoon walking along Rue de l' Universite, and crossing over onto Rue Bonaparte, I literally fell into Mme Castaing's shop... and said in French, "AH". Once back in San Francisco, I received a World of Interiors Magazine, from a friend, that had a one page story honoring, Mme Castaing by Barbara and Rene Stoeltie. I called them and they loved the idea. The adventure began.

Barbara and Rene, led me to the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley; Lord Cholmondeley, loved the idea and kindly provided his footage of Mme. Castaing for my film. All in all, it really it was Barbara and Rene Stoeltie, and especially Rene's photograph's, that truly brought Mme Castaing to life.

2. What was the most interesting aspect of the project ?

To see the portrait of Soutine by Mme Castaing in Jacques Grange Parisian flat.

3. What were you surprised to learn about her ?

It was amazing to hear the story of Mme Castaing, putting the vacuum cleaner on reverse to blow the dust all around a room. As Barbara Stoeltie said, for Mme Castaing "Nothing should be to clean, or too neat for Ms. Castaing, for her a room has to be a bit tattered" which reminds me of my upper east-side flat as these pictures show.…

4. What are you working on now?

I just completed the film OLEK, "bad artists imitate, great artists steal," which is about the crochet artist and her work in New York. One can watch it on my youtube channel. Also November 5th, I am in a huge show in Miami Beach called "Sleepless Nights". For the third year, my video work will run on the shuttles buses for 24 hours a day as folks ride from venue to venue.

One Kings Lane Tastemaker Tag Sale

2011-10-16T16:24:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendars. October 25^th at 9:00 pm EST is my next One Kings Lane Tastemaker Tag Sale. There’s a great selection of vintage lamps, trims, dinnerware, accessories, small tables as well as selected small pieces of fabric from my collection. Be sure to check it out!

This amazing vintage bird cage is one of the accessories that will be available. It almost makes me wish I had a bird.

An instant feeling of summer for any room, this festive morning glory chandelier would add loads of charm to any space. I see this in a dressing room with bold periwinkle and white striped wallpaper, crisp white trim and mirror everywhere.

There’s also an assortment of oil paintings and works on paper, like this delicate Iris watercolor. I used this piece in the Bloggers Retreat I did for the Berkshire Botanical Garden in 2010.

These chocolate Hampton Plaid napkins in sets of four are great for autumn dinners in front of the fire.

Another set of napkins, in Pinwheel sea, from the several that I am doing.

One of the many pieces of my fabrics that will be in the sale, this piece of Gramercy in string which would make a great tablecloth.

Garden Talk

2011-10-11T16:11:00.000-04:00

I am really excited to have been asked to speak on gardening by the Little Garden Club of Rye on November 8^th, 2011. It's going to be a great presentation on some of the fantastic gardens I have visited in the Loire Valley. I am also going to discuss their influence on my garden and my five favorite recipes inspired from the garden. It is open to the public at the Rye New York Library and starts at 10 am. Hope to see you there.

The Laundry

2011-10-06T09:13:00.000-04:00

For people passionate about laundry and maintaining beautiful linens there is only one place to go to, The Laundry . The company has been using time honored techniques to maintain the linens of the rich and famous for over 50 years. Known for their meticulous care of the finest linens, its stellar reputation is well earned, even Martha Stewart uses them.

Its true that only a happy few can afford to ship their sheets and table lines to have them cared for on a regular basis. I am happy to report that anyone can now be a part of their magic. The laundry is now offering their environmentally friendly secret formula detergent for sale at retail. I have used it and its really great for not only washing but as a paste for stain removal. Their website also features a great section of tips on how to wash, dry and iron.

Every clients linens are carefully inspected to determine the appropriate care and technique to be used.

It’s all about rapt attention to detail.

The detergent comes in this stylish reusable canister.

My Habit Sale is Up and Running!

2011-10-03T10:38:00.000-04:00

Just in time for a quick holiday spruce up. The Michael Devine sale on Amazon’s My Habit is up until October 5th. We put together a smashing collection of custom products and several custom colorways that are available only for My Habit members. We even added coaster sets which are so cute - along with trays and an assortment of pillows.

The set of 4 Dottie graphite coasters, also available in coral.

Large Orangerie absinthe tray - so chic.

Need to give the sofa a new look? How about a pair of Gramercy lichen pillows paired with a Venice coral lumbar pillow?

Reading for the Weekend

2011-10-01T09:44:00.000-04:00

This weekend is the weekend that I finally have time to spend pouring over some of Rizzoli’s newest must have design releases. I am really looking forward to interior designer Jeffrey Bilhuber's newest tome, The Way Home. The book is filled with beautiful photos of the richly detailed rooms he creates with the multiple layers of pattern and elements.

Internationally acclaimed photographer Oberto Gili's oeuvre Home Sweet Home is next up. The book highlights both his poetic images of high society and bohemian demimonde that he has shot during his distinguished career.

The World of Muriel Brandolini is 300 hundred pages of her style and joie de vivre. The very personal text highlights her thoughts and the process she uses to create her remarkable interiors. I am looking forward to learning a thing or two.

A Kinderhook Classic

2011-09-14T20:58:00.000-04:00

My friend Linda Heard has a charming shop, Lindowen’s American Country, in Kinderhook that specializes in beautifully edited American country antiques so long its considered a classic. Her eye is unfailing and she brings a wonderful warm sophistication to a style that I think can be overwhelming in less discerning hands.

During the time that I have gotten to know her and her husband Owen, I always imagined that their home above the shop was as charming as her retail space. It’s a real treat to share some images form the September issue of Country Sampler features an eight page story on her home.

The walls of the home are painted by noted artist Coral Endres, who is also the previous owner of the house. Linda also has her own beautiful collection of hand woven wool fabrics. The colors are wonderful and have a great hand.

A detail shot, I am crazy for the portrait.

The article even has a list of Linda’s five tips to recreate her style.

Sale Time!

2011-09-13T11:25:00.000-04:00

Who doesn’t love a yard sale? The thrill of the hunt and the pleasure of the find makes for a very fun day. Especially if it’s in a beautiful location filled with historic homes. This Saturday is a day long opportunity to explore Kinderhook, New York in hope of finding that special treasure. Starting at 9 AM, participating village residents will offer their selection of wares for sale.

Thomas and I have decided this year that it would be a lot of fun to do it too. We will have a selection of frames, housewares and a few pieces of fabric. Hope to see you at number 10 Broad Street!

A Day of Brimfield Finds

2011-09-08T11:11:00.000-04:00

This week is the Brimfield Flea Market, in Brimfield MA, with its acres of possibilities there is something for everyone. Thomas and I went on Tuesday which was the opening day and managed to get there by six AM. What an experience for a first timer like myself. It was cold and wet from massive amounts of rain and seemed like half the vendors skipped the first day, but then so did most of the attendees. After slogging through muddy fields in drizzle here are a few of the things that caught my eye. Thankfully we took the car which prevented acquiring many new pieces, however next spring…

Scotty fireplace andirons, I don’t have a dog but a pair of these could work instead.

This Dolphin head painted table was really beautiful and well priced from Love Train Antiques.

With winter coming, this six foot long planter could have really come in handy for wintering over plants and starting seedlings next spring. Not to mention the wonderful patina of the painted finish.

These terrific chairs are so chic and seem like they would be very comfortable once they had cushions. The dealer wanted $85.00 for pair - seemed like a deal.

These Zanesville individual casseroles made me think of piping hot soupe a l’oignon with a think crust of melted gruyere. It also could have been the fact that I was freezing and wet when I saw these.

This Paine wicker sofa, is as they say, the one that got away. Immediately when I saw this I had a flash of inspiration of it filled with pillows made form my Fretwork, Charlotte and Ashley fabrics in string, chocolate and absinthe. Maybe next year.

Happy Labor Day

2011-09-01T15:45:00.000-04:00

Have a fun and safe weekend!

One Last Look

2011-08-28T09:11:00.000-04:00

We raced to prepare for Irene, I took a few parting shots of this years garden. Hopefully it will weather the storm with minimal damage and loss.

Still looking splendid even without the urn of Plumbago, which, along with all the other potted plants and small tables will ride the storm out in the bagatelle.

The seating area we have hosted so many fun parties is ready for the storm.

Not knowing what the storm will do to the plants, I picked a bouquet of herbs for cooking. Just the basics, mints for teas, basil, lavender and summer savory, can’t do without those for long.

Charlotte and James

2011-08-23T11:45:00.000-04:00

As fate would have it two dear and very stylish friends decided to blog about my fabrics at the same time. Charlotte Moss did a wonderful post on her name sake fabric “Charlotte” for her Tete a Tete blog. I am so excited that she loves the fabric so much she made a smashing coat out of it!

While last weekend James Andrew of What’s James Wearing came for lunch in the garden with his partner Scott McBee. It was a wonderful relaxing afternoon. I am really looking forward to them coming back this fall for a weekend of fun country activities!

Check out their fun posts here.

Charlotte wearing Charlotte in Absinthe on Tete a Tete.

Dapper as always, James in the garden. Image from What’s James Wearing.

Homemade Coffee Soda

2011-08-17T09:28:00.000-04:00

This summer has been a great opportunity to experiment in the kitchen with various recipes that I have hoarded for a while now but never had time to try. This coffee soda recipe is one of those that has been on the to make list for sometime. I am not sure why I waited. It is easy, fast and so delicious.

Unlike the store bought counterparts, this doesn’t have any mystery ingredients. Its made with three simple ingredients: water, sugar and instant expresso.

Coffee Soda

4 c. Water

½ c. Instant Expresso

1lb. Sugar

Light Cream

Ice

Soda Water

In a very large saucepan, bring the water to a boil and add the instant expresso and stir until dissolved (when the expresso is added it will double in size). Add sugar all at once, stir to dissolve. Bring to a roiling boil for 12 minutes. Remove from heat. Let cool.

For an 8 oz serving put about two tablespoons of syrup in the glass add about the same amount of light cream and stir to mix. Add ice and top with soda water and mix again.

Note: Skim milk can be used in place of the cream, but the drink is really much better with a member of the cream family.

Thank you One Kings Lane

2011-08-11T11:41:00.000-04:00

The gift - a leather notebook and pen.

It’s always great to receive a thank you for something that one has done. However, the best thank you is the unexpected one. The brilliant minds behind One Kings Lane recently sent out thank you gifts to their Tastemaker Tag Sale designers for their contribution to the success of the first year of tag sales.

As I gear up for my third Tastemaker Tag Sale in October, I feel like I should be thanking them for the opportunity to participate in such a fun and cool event. Merci Beaucoup One Kings Lane!

The thank you.

What to do with Zucchini?

2011-08-07T21:06:00.000-04:00

How about an amazing Chocolate Zucchini Cake? Just about anybody who grows zucchini or

knows someone who does is aware of the surplus of it by this time of the season.

This cake takes me back to the halcyon days of my midwestern childhood summers when it would start appearing every August. Best of all its a fast, easy and is super moist thanks to the zucchini.

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups white sugar

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

4 eggs

1 1/2 cups vegetable oil

3 cups grated unpeeled zucchini

3/4 cup slivered almonds

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, salt and

cinnamon. Add the eggs and oil, mix well. It will be very stiff at this point. Fold in the nuts and zucchini until they are evenly distributed. Pour into the prepared pan.

3. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes in the preheated oven, until a knife inserted into the center comes out

clean. Let the cake cool and dust with cocoa powder or frost with your favorite icing.

Great Giveaway

2011-08-02T10:08:00.000-04:00

InteriorConnector is giving away one of my chic Venice chocolate trays to one lucky new subscriber. Your chance to subscribe to a great website and win a tray is only a click away at InteriorConnector.

The Amazing Interior Connector

2011-07-26T11:07:00.000-04:00

Recently I had the pleasure of being interviewed by the charming Beth Neuhaus founder of the cool new design website Interior Connector. Neuhaus’ mission is to give a platform to the best of the best in luxury home furnishings. Check out the Decor Basics interview and the site here.

How My Garden Grows

2011-07-24T11:28:00.001-04:00

This summers garden is growing like gangbusters. Everything is thick, lush and very bountiful making it a real treat. The flowers have been as rewarding as the fruits and vegetables. There’s a daily supply of Cornflowers, Zinnias, Delphiniums, Victoria Salvia and Cosmos to be had. Here are a few snaps of what my idea of a summer paradise looks like these days.

Nasturtiums in the foreground to grapevines covering the roof of the bagatelle in the background, everything has gone wild.

Plumbago has taken center stage this year in the urn. I am crazy for its cool blue.

The big change this year. The new fencing panels for the beds. The willow fencing after five years needed to be replaced. So we found these fantastic woven fence panels that are much easier to install than rolled fencing.

Victoria Blue Salvia shot against the blue green leaves of the Brussel sprouts. The color combination is really beautiful.

Michael Devine Fabrics at Ainsworth Noah

2011-07-20T15:23:00.001-04:00

The uber chic Atlanta showroom Ainsworth Noah is now representing my collection of hand printed fabric. I am really happy to be represented by them and in such esteemed company as Victoria Hagan, Le Gracieux, Robert Kime and Jasper by Michael S. Smith. If your in ADAC please stop by and see the collection.

Elsie de Wolfe’s Garden at the Villa Trianon

2011-07-11T09:06:00.000-04:00

While leafing through my ancient copy of The Book of Gardens and Gardening edited byCountry Life from 1924, I found these amazing pictures of Elsie de Wolfe’s garden. The garden was at her Villa Trianon in Versailles just outside of Paris. What caught my eye first were the standards which are not the usual roses, but pink geraniums in a bed of blue aubretia which must have been very striking against the green grass.

The stylish Miss de Wolfe had a walk lined in ivy topiary arches which framed the beautiful Dorothy Parker roses.

Known for her use of treillage its no surprise to find it in her garden.

Her pool fed by a simple single jet of water. I wonder what the low shrub is around the pool. Lavender or absinthe maybe?

Even her little tool shed was chic enough for Country Life to feature.

Thank you House Beautiful

2011-07-07T10:42:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite issues of House Beautiful is the one dedicated to small spaces. It was great to see the last years Berkshire Botanical Garden’s shed exhibit mentioned in the current issue. The project was alot of fun and creatively fulfilling.

The top shed is the Bloggers Retreat that I designed, the middle one is Annie Selke’s Swedish inspired guest bedroom and bottom one is Sarah and Peter Thorne’s rustic retreat.

Pembroke House Designs, Ltd.

2011-06-27T09:38:00.001-04:00

It’s always a pleasure to see my fabrics after they have been installed. When the talented designer Alison G. McCall of Pembroke House Designs, Ltd. sent me these photos of her family house in Florida I had to post them. She and her siblings inherited the family home from their mother. The house was designed by legendary architect Wallace Neff, known as the master of the Californian style that he created in Southern California during the first half of the 20th century. Its the only house of his outside of California.

Fretwork in string was used for the six sets of French doors in the living room. I really love the red and cream color palette and the vaulted ceiling.

Delectable Strawberry Tart

2011-06-20T13:25:00.001-04:00

With strawberry season in full force what better way to enjoy them than in a tart? This recipe is one I have been wanting to make for a while now. I came across it while editing my bulging “to try” file of recipes that I think ever cook has. It has a basil garnish that adds a rich flavor to the berries that I really liked. This recipe is from Fruits Rouges edited by L’ami des Jardins et la Maison.

1 Blind baked pate sable tart shell

3 c. Strawberry hulled

3 oz of olive oil

1 Vanilla bean

½ Lemon

Basil

⅔ c. powder sugar

A few drops of balsamic vinegar

Ground pepper

Slice 2 ¼ cups of strawberries in 4 slices each. Reserve the rest. Put the juice of the lemon and powdered sugar in a sauce pan and cook until the sugar is dissolved. Add the sliced strawberries and vanilla bean and cook over low heat until the strawberries are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove the vanilla bean and let cool until tepid.

Remove the cooled tart shell from its pan and place on the serving plate. Fill with the cooked strawberries. Cut the remaining strawberries in half and place on top of the filling, sliced side up. Mix the olive oil and a couple drops of vinegar and drizzle over the top and sprinkle with the thinly sliced basil and a dash of ground black pepper.

Makes one 9” tart.

The Apartment of Christian Dior

2011-06-17T12:38:00.000-04:00

Recently I was in a shop going through stacks of used books. I was fortunate enough to come across a copy of the wonderful Les Reussites de la Decoration Francaise 1950-1960. Since I have a real weakness for French design books from the ’50’s and 60’s I had to snap it up. French rooms from this period always fascinate me by their timelessness. What really caught my attention were the photos of Christian Dior’s elegant Paris apartment. After Dior’s success as the uber designer of his time, he hired two friends to decorate his new home. Georges Geffroy did the “public” rooms where Dior would hold receptions and dinners, while his other friend Victor H. Grandpierre did his private rooms.

The entry is so dramatic and simple, particularly with the draping on the stairs that matches the trim on the portieres.

The living room is one of the “public” rooms used for entertaining. It rather makes me want a huge palm tree.

Truly a thing of the past, the smoking room. Regardless of its original purpose with a few small tweaks, like removing the ashtrays, it could have been done yesterday.

Red linen velvet, Flemish tapestry, a leather sofa and a fireplace I am ready to move into this room.

BIG Tastemaker Tag Sale Tomorrow Night!

2011-04-25T14:44:00.000-04:00

We have been getting ready for weeks for our big One Kings Lane Tastemaker Tagsale. There’s a wealth of short pieces of fabric, some fabrics in one off colors, beautiful things out of my living space and pieces from the store. All up to 50% off. The sale starts tomorrow night (4/26) at 9 pm EST. Shop early, for the best selection. The sale runs until Saturday (4/30)), but quanities are really, really limited. Here’s a selection of a few of the items coming up in the sale.

A one yard piece of Bagatelle in a special color: Charcoal

My newest pattern Charlotte. There is one four yard piece of a special color sage for some lucky person.

This beautiful large ceramic Pea was handmade in France.

This is the perfect gift for the gardener in the family, a great brass watering can, a tomato knife and a handy hoe for tight spots. All by the prince himself. Le Prince Jardiner that is.

A Taste of Spring

2011-03-29T11:21:00.000-04:00

This last weekend, I hit a wall. I decided that I had made more than enough apple based desserts for the winter and was ready to break out into spring. So what could be more of a breath of spring than a Rhubarb Crumble? It goes together one, two, three and disappears even faster. It is not a super sweet dessert but really good with vanilla ice cream on the side.

Rhubarb Crumble

Serves 6

1.5 lbs rhubarb split lengthwise cut into half inch pieces

1 large apple peeled, cored and minced

1 packet of Vanilla sugar

½ cup flour

⅓ cup soften butter

⅓ cup sugar

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Put rhubarb and apple in a 13” oval gratin dish. Sprinkle with vanilla sugar.

In a bowl combine butter, flour and sugar with fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle over the rhubarb and apple mixture. Bake for 30-40 mins until golden brown.

Bon Appetit.

Signs of Spring

2011-03-24T09:05:00.000-04:00

The last couple of weeks I have been on a constant mission to find some signs of Spring. These are a few of the pictures of what I found while out and about.

Ranunculus at the Union Square Farmers Market.

Crocus in Gramercy Park.

The single Daffodil blooming in Gramercy Park.

Charlotte Moss Decorates

2011-03-16T22:00:00.000-04:00

What can one say about Charlotte Moss’ newest book, Charlotte Moss Decorates? To start with, the oeuvre is stunningly beautiful and filled with historical references that compliment the design concepts perfectly. More than that Moss offers a wealth of ideas that are easily implemented into even the most modest budget with her multiple Why Not… lists throughout the book. From cover to cover its a fantastic look into Moss’ methodology of designing beautiful livable rooms with no detail overlooked. It’s really one of the rare design books that leaves one wanting it never to end.

This is an example of one of the collage boards Charlotte uses to create her spaces. This one was for the Kips Bay Show House Bedroom she did in 2009.

One of my favorite detail shots from the book. The play of the reds and ivories is poetic.

Of course my favorite photo is of the room Charlotte did using my Beekman fabric in a my custom color. It was not only a terrific honor to have her use my fabric, but a lot of fun to work with her to achieve “her” color.

Opening night at Kips Bay with Charlotte. It was one of the best nights I ever had. Seeing my fabric in the finished room was really amazing!

Brio NYC, He said

2011-03-14T15:16:00.001-04:00

While enjoying a delicious dinner at the very new Brio NYC recently with Ronda Carman of All the Best, she and I decided to do a He Said / She Said blog post about it. This is my version.

What struck me was that there were none of the usual problems of a new restaurant. It is not too surprising when one finds out that the owner is the son of the iconic Upper Eastside restaurant Brio. Damien Scoditti has created a great looking restaurant serving reasonably priced regional Italian food in a spectacular New York location: the corner of 21st and Broadway. Right in the shadow of the Flatiron building.

With the space designed by architect and designer Tony Chi, the airy eatery has a soaring ceiling and twenty foot windows with a view of the ever changing New York street scene. One of the things that I really liked about the dining room is in spite of the hard surfaces, it wasn’t difficult to have a conversation during dinner.

The corner table in the window, who needs a show on Broadway when it is an ever changing kaleidoscope of New Yorkers passing by?

The Bar and entrance to the restaurant is also a handy place to drop in for a quick lunch.

Ronda shooting her side of the story. Please check out her version All the Best.

The molten chocolate cake. I really could have had seconds.

The Ice Storm

2011-03-07T21:01:00.000-05:00

The beauty of winter comes in many forms. My favorite is not the snow as much as the crystalline perfection of an ice storm. There really is something magical about the sunlight striking ice covered objects. Todays ice storm didn’t disappoint and provided a wealth of frigid beauty.

Spring Sale

2011-03-02T10:46:00.000-05:00

With Spring around the corner, the time has come for me to make room for some beautiful new pieces in the Michael Devine Signature Collection. So, I have taken 30% off some of the trays and small bowls until March 12, 2011. There’s a good assortment of items to choose from and as always everything is made locally. Happy shopping!

The Scent of Spring

2011-02-27T10:49:00.000-05:00

No matter what winter weather might be happening outside, one first sure sign that spring is fast approaching is when my Meyer Lemon tree blooms. The tree’s beautiful white blossoms and rich scent makes even the coldest snowiest day less miserable.

Under the Eaves

2011-02-24T10:27:00.000-05:00

It was great to read part two of Frances Schultz’s makeover story in the March issue of House Beautiful. Not only because she used my Fretwork fabric in delft, but how she used it. I thought it was very clever to make a canopy over the bed to heighten the 7 1/2 foot ceiling in the room. It really makes a grand statement in a small space.

Details

2011-02-07T09:38:00.001-05:00

It's all in the details.

A Stylish Makeover

2011-02-04T13:01:00.001-05:00

The February issue of Southern Living features the home of Coastal Living Design editor Steele Marcoux and the transformation of her charming cottage. Her make over story is filled with helpful advice that she and her husband Michel used to create the stylish spaces.

Obviously the bedroom photo caught my eye. The bench and curtains are made with my Venice fabric in chocolate. It’s great to be a part of such a fun project!

Lots of Snow

2011-01-27T16:29:00.001-05:00

The view from my window this morning.

Gramercy Park under 19" of snow.

A Must Have Cookbook

2011-01-23T12:46:00.000-05:00

One of my most spotted, stained and dog eared all time favorite cookbooks is Menus et Recettes pour toute la Famille par Francoise Bernard. When I first moved to Paris to study I had no idea who Francoise Bernard was or her contribution to French cooking. What I did notice was it seemed every French kitchen I was in came equipped with at least one of her cookbooks, rather like a stove is a standard kitchen item.

Over time and as my French improved, I learned who she was and her importance. Very simply put, she is to France what dear Fanny Farmer is to America, the basic fool proof go to cookbook. Obviously there is a serious difference: she is French.

Many of the recipes that Julia Child brought back and made famous with her cookbooks are found in Bernards. However, the recipes are as delicious but much easier and faster to prepare.

For example, last week we hosted a fireside dinner for a couple of friends. I wanted a pretty and easy dessert that reflected what is in season. That reduced the options to locally grown apples or pears. So skimming through the new American edition of Francoise’s cookbook, La Cuisine Everyday French Home Cooking I found a recette for Bourdelots Normands (Whole Apples in Flaky Pastry) page 700.

It was just the ticket. I made the Pate Brisee (a snap with the food processor) and a swell Creme Fraiche Ice Cream I made with local raw milk from Hawthorne Valley Farms. I filled the apple with some of the raspberry jam I made last summer.

They were delicious. The tanginess of the ice cream countered the sweetness of the apple and the jam really well. These apples are a far cry from grandmother's baked apples.

A Big Surprise

2011-01-14T22:36:00.000-05:00

It was an amazing surprise when I opened the email from the Paris branch of Holland & Sherry this morning. I was not expecting these images from the January issue of Elle Decoration France, nor was I expecting to see three of my fabrics featured in their “Best of International” issue.

Thank you Elle Decoration!

Something Beautiful for Sunday

2011-01-09T14:04:00.001-05:00

A photo I took of "The Garden of the Senses" at Chateau de la Chatonniere.

The Amazing Geranium

2011-01-04T21:26:00.000-05:00

Geraniums in Planters.

Clockwise from the top: A magical mix in a window box on the street where I used to live in Paris, Rue Simon Dereure.

Urn at the Jardin du Luxembourg. Bottom and above left: The wall of geraniums at the Chateau du Chenonceau.

With the holidays over and winter now in full swing, its time to get to work on the garden! I did my first garden drafts last July when everything was in full force and I can really see what was working and what didn’t. Now is the time for the fine tuning and adding any newly acquired plant materials “wants” to the plans.

After spending several weeks this autumn in France and England the wants list is running on. The trip gave me a totally renewed appreciation for many old garden favorites, that have sadly become cliche. The poor geranium is one of several familiar fleurs that was on my list. The reason for it being outcast? It’s been a familiar sight to see it used in some really unfortunate municipal plantings, that it seemed to be like the petunia, beyond the pale forever.

That has changed after visiting some magnificent gardens from Paris to the Loire Valley. It was in those gardens that I saw the tried and true geranium hold exalted places of honor in many of the most inspiring gardens. Even though I was there in the early days of October they held their own and looked as good as they must have in mid summer. Here’s to the Geranium.

As a bedding plant.

Clockwise: In pale lavender at the Jardin du Luxembourg Paris. Red geraniums at Chateau de Versailles.

Bottom right: Used as an accent plant at The Grand Palais Paris. Bottom left: Chateau de Versailles.

Christmas Truffles

2010-12-23T10:22:00.000-05:00

Chocolate Truffles are one of my favorite holiday sweets. I have been on the lookout for a recipe that is fast and easy. So this year I decided to give the one from Chateau Cuisine by Anne Willan a try.

It was really fun. Fast, easy and a few ingredients. The actual truffle forming was so much fun that I wished my three year old nephew could have been helping me. Well, then I remembered what it was like when he was two and met his first cream sauce. That Hallmark Hall of Fame moment was quickly checked by reality.

The finished product is just what I wanted. A delectable rich dark chocolate truffle, the perfect chocolate moment.

Truffes de Noel au Chocolat

1/2 Lb Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped

1/4 Cup water

1 Cup unsalted butter cut in to pieces

1/4 cup sugar

6 Egg yolks

1 Cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Warm the chocolate in the water in a heavy pan over very low heat without stirring. When the chocolate softens, add the butter and sugar all at once. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until the chocolate and the butter melt completely.

Remove from heat and let mixture cool 2 or 3 minutes. Add the eggs yolks, one by one, stirring vigorously. The heat from mixture will cook and thicken the egg yolks. Beat until very smooth and glossy. Spread the mixture in a shallow baking dish. Put in the freezer uncovered to chill the mixture until firm, about 1-2 hours.

Sift the cocoa powder onto a tray. Dust your hands with the cocoa to discourage sticking. Scoop out the chocolate mixture with a teaspoon and shape into 1” balls by rolling in your hands. Roll them in the tray of cocoa powder until well coated. Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with waxed paper. Put them in the freezer until firm about 1/2 hour.

Store the truffles in an air tight container between sheets of waxed paper. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-21T07:12:00.000-05:00

This years festive Gramercy Park Christmas tree.

New Look

2010-12-17T12:27:00.000-05:00

One of my greatest pleasures of designing fabric is seeing how designers use it. Most of the time I only find out by chance in someones blog post or in a magazine story. So I was really happy when my friend Molly Andrews of Chairloom sent the photos of her latest project, this small sofa. Molly, who is a great upholsterer, recovered the piece in my Garden Folly fabric in chocolate. This is one of my favorite fabric designs and it compliments the classic lines of the sofa really well. Thanks Molly for sharing.

A Stylish Fete

2010-12-16T09:03:00.000-05:00

Design icons John Rosselli and Bunny Williams hosted one of the many book signings for their good friend, designer and author Suzanne Rheinstein. What better place for the fete than the sprawling John Rosselli Antiques & Decoration showroom on east 61st for the get together?

Rheinstein was in town to celebrate her fantastic new must have book, “At Home”, which is now in its second printing.

Author Suzanne Rheinstein

Designers Christopher Spitzmiller and Bunny Williams

Designer Katie Ridder

Atlanta designers, mother / daughter team Cheryl and Alison Womack

A Cover

2010-12-02T17:40:00.000-05:00

I was excited to hear from a friend that my Fretwork fabric is on the cover of the current issue of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine. When I got the magazine, I was doubly elated that not only was it a great shot, but that it had been used by the stylish Atlanta designer Jessica Womack Jowers of Womack Interiors in her own house. It’s like Christmas has come early!

Michael Devine One Day Sale

2010-11-24T09:21:00.001-05:00

This coming Sunday 11/28/10 is going to be the perfect opportunity to pick up some holiday gifts and last minute decorating finds at great prices. My friend Katherine Hable of Hable Construction along with Variegated, Chairloom, myself and many others are participating in the well known Old American Can Factory’s Makers Market. I am going be offering pillows, end of bolt fabrics and over run tray production at significant savings. Purchases will be cash or credit card only. No checks and all sales are final.

Hope to see you there.

Hours 11:00 to 5:00

Makers Market

232 3rd Street

Brooklyn, NY

A New Chapter

2010-11-18T16:58:00.001-05:00

The welcome committee was in full force at the party honoring Margaret Russell’s ascension to Editor in Chief of Architectural Digest last night. The packed event was held at the Riverpark restaurant in New York City. To name just a very few of the well wishers of the over 400 guests on hand were: Victoria Hagan, Vincente Wolfe, Jamie Drake, Tom Britt, Mario Buatta, William Diamond, Anthony Baratta, Pierre Frey, Alexa Hampton, Julia Noran and Miquel Flores Vianna.

Margaret Russell and Reed Krakoff

Robert Ruffino of Architectural Digest

Todd and Amy Hase with their darling daughters Chloe and Ava

Hail to the Chief: Part 2

2010-11-17T15:19:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the night when all the design stars will be shining brightly. Tonight is the much anticipated party of parties for the new editor in chief of Architectural Digest, Margaret Russell. When I was the party editor for HFN magazine I had the privilege of covering the party that was thrown in her honor when she became editor in chief of Elle Decor.

I thought it would be fun to take a look back at that event so I went through my vast archive et voila!

Congratulations Margaret well done!

A la Charlotte

2010-11-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

I am really excited that after months of work my newest pattern Charlotte is arriving in showrooms this month. The design is named after my mentor and good friend, the amazing designer/author Charlotte Moss.

I have done a modern interpretation of a classic 18th century floral, rendered in a larger and bolder scale while retaining the poetic quality of the traditional design. It is available in six beautiful colors, a new yellow green called absinthe, chocolate, coral, wedgwood, lichen and stone.

Fading Glory

2010-11-15T10:33:00.001-05:00

Ikat is a classic. I am crazy for the colors and the myriad of pattern variations. So have many other designers, magazine editors and bloggers from what I have seen. However, it would appear that the classics moment (like Pashmina, remember those scarves?) could be over when New York street vendors are selling a version of it.

Ikat scarf corner of 22nd and Park Avenue 11/11/10.

A Simple Delight

2010-11-14T09:51:00.000-05:00

Living in a village with so many apple orchards a stones throw away, our autumn is filled with many dishes made with apples, salads, breads and desserts. If it makes sense an apple finds its way into every dish.

I have made this cake several times and it’s my absolute favorite it’s fast, easy and so good. I found this recipe in one of my cookbooks, Recipes from the French Wine Harvest by Rosi Hanson.

Noelle Lafarge’s Apple Cake

For 8 people

6 oz sugar (I use vanilla sugar)

3 eggs

8 oz plain flour

3 t baking powder

1 T. melted butter

1 lb. cooking apples (I use Northern Spy)

Preheat oven to 425.

Beat sugar and eggs together until pale. Sift flour and baking powder together, then stir into egg mixture. Stir in melted butter.

Peel and core apples. Cut into chucks. Incorporate them into the batter. Turn into a parchment lined and greased 8 in spring form pan and bake in a preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Serve warm with crème fraiche.

That's Entertainment

2010-11-12T15:22:00.000-05:00

It is so fun to have been included in the November House Beautiful entertainment feature, 101 Party Doʼs and Donʼtʼs. Take a look if you haven't already seen it, House Beautiful.

My entertaining words of wisdom.

Seasons Greetings

2010-11-11T18:09:00.000-05:00

Every year at this time I start to make my holiday card list. I have such a sense of accomplishment when its done. Which is about as far as I get. I am certain that this breech of commitment really stems from never having found cards to send that I really love. However, this year promises to be different, fellow blogger and artist Anneochovie has these really charming cards that could make even me change my ways and fulfill the list.

The cards are available online at her Etsy store.

Dolce Vita

2010-11-10T18:22:00.001-05:00

The molto bella New York apartment of designer and Italian aficionado Matthew White and his partner Thomas Schumacher was the setting for cocktail party honoring Suzy Slesin Tuesday night. Suzy who is Matthews publisher for his first book “Italy of my Dreams” is also well known in the design world as the former editor in chief of O home, designer editor of House & Garden and the New York Times. A few of the soignée friends on hand to toast her were Suzy’s husband Michael Steinberg, Frank Webb, Miguel Flores Viana, Dennis Miller, Maureen Footer, Sabine Rothman and Amy Breedlove.

The adored publisher, Suzy Slesin of Pointed Leaf Press

Designer and author Matthew White and Doretta Sperduto of House Beautiful

Former Metropolitan Home Editor in Chief Donna Warner

Summers Bounty

2010-11-07T11:57:00.000-05:00

One afternoon, this last summer I was very inspired by the bounty of my ever bearing Heritage raspberries. Straining under the weight of all their fruits, they just seemed begging to be made into jam. To be truthful, I haven’t made jam since I left Illinois more than a few moons ago. However, having grown up in a small village in an agricultural area I have had some experience with the process. I found an easy recipe for confiture de frambroise, a couple of pounds of just picked raspberries, a bag of sugar and some left over jars was all it took.

Dear Tobi

2010-11-06T09:32:00.000-04:00

My good friend designer and blogger Tobi Fairley really flattered me recently when she asked me to be her November style feature. This is a multi facetted piece. She is running the style section now and as Thanksgiving approaches she will be posting one of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes. A Pumpkin Cake roll that is a delicious addictive alternative to pumpkin pie, made with pecans, cream cheese frosting and filling.

Tobi has used my Gramercy chocolate fabric in one of her many projuects. A soid tape on the skirt of the chair is one of my favorite details.

Bunny's Delight

2010-11-05T10:04:00.000-04:00

Designer and author Bunny Williams new book, Scarpbook for Living, was launched this week in typical style at the Mecca of chic John Rosselli Antiques in New York. The delightful book is filled with easy to implement design advice was done in a charming scrapbook style with photos by Amy Archer. Chatting with Bunny, seeing friends and absorbing the signature style of JRA made for a really fun evening.

Designer and author Bunny Williams

Noted photographer Miguel Flores-Vianna, be sure to check out his One Kings Lane Tastemaker Tag Sale on December 5th.

Designer John Robshaw

Bay Style

2010-11-03T07:50:00.000-04:00

The uber cool San Francisco store Lotus Bleu has done an exclusive collection of my trays. Jeannie Fraise, the tastemaker behind Lotus Bleu, put together an amazingly cheerful palette of coral, indigo, lemon, scarlet and leaf for her collection Garden Folly and Venice trays. The collection looks so fresh.
It’s been a really fantastic way for me to launch my new accessory wholesale catalog, Michael Devine Signature Collection.

The citrus story of lemon and leaf.

The classic combination of black, white and red.

Books of the Week

2010-11-01T11:03:00.000-04:00

Two spectacular books were launched last week in New York, Mary McDonald The Allure of Style and The World of Madeline Castaing. Both books are must haves. Mary’s glamorous style jumps from every page with lavish photography. There is no doubt about her design point of view.

Mary McDonald signing the night away

Designer Thomas Burak, Newell Turner Editor in Chief of House Beautiful and writer Dan Shaw at Doyle New York

The World of Madeline Castaing is a rich retrospective of the work of the great French decorator authored by Emily Evans Eerdmans. Being somewhat of a Castaing groupie, I was taken with is number of photos of Castaings work that I hadn’t seen before.

The signing was held in the rarified cadre of the International Fine Art and Antiques Dealer Show. Maureen Footer, Charlotte Moss, David Dunkin and Beth Martell were just a few of the people on hand to have their books signed.

Emily Evans Eerdmans being toasted by Maureen Footer

Designer John Fondas

Garden & Gun Comes to NYC

2010-10-27T12:51:00.000-04:00

Recently, the New York showroom of The New Traditionalists was the setting for the very fun Southern Style Social they co hosted with the lux lifestyle magazine Garden & Gun. More than a few noteworthy New York design types were there, including John Robshaw, Richard & Elaine Wrightman, Temo Calahan, Tori Mellot, Ashley Stark, James Druckman, John Tiffany and Richard Keith Langham.

Philip Erdoes, CEO, The New Traditionalists and Walker Mason of Garden & Gun

Katherine Hable Sweeny of Hable Construction and Haskell Harris of Garden & Gun

Designer/Blogger Brad Ford and Architect Joel Barkley

The Garden Gate

2010-10-20T21:49:00.000-04:00

The mystery of what’s hidden behind a garden gate always intrigued me. I spied this gate outside the walls of Chateau d' Azay le Rideau when I was visiting the Loire Valley a few weeks ago.

The simplicity of the construction and the patina of the wood made me wonder how long its been there, who made it and how many generations of gardens has it stood sentinel for? Ah the stories it could tell.

Back from the Hamptons

2010-10-17T19:34:00.000-04:00

Just back from a weekend in East Hampton where I went to celebrate a friends birthday. I did manage to get a few hours on the beach, there's no more relaxing place in the world than a beautiful deserted beach.

Where has the Summer Gone?

2010-08-01T18:25:00.000-04:00

I am somewhat shocked. My calendar tells me August is here. I am wondering where the summer has gone?

This summer was almost perfect for the roses in my garden. It was warm and just the right amount of rain. I was looking through the garden pictures that I have been taking and found the ones of the roses in bloom. I have about 20 varieties in the garden now. Most of them antique. I have added another six since these photos were taken and trying to resist the temptation for even more.Here’s a selection of some of my favorites from this fast fading summer.

The Zephirine Drouhin climbing on the back of the building is my favorite climber. Just plant it, water it and watch it go.

I planted a small Reine des Violettes last year that’s starting to take off on the arbor at the back of the garden. The blooms are a gorgeous color and the fragrance is bliss.

The Pierre de Ronsard in my opinion is a must have for every garden. The roses are stunning and fragrant, best of all they reward us with literally arm loads of stunning roses. They even rebloom in late summer.

A wonderful simple arrangement for the kitchen. A stem of Zephirine Drouhin in a plain bottle.

Roses in the city. This is an arrangement we did for the city apartment. A contrast of cream Pierre de Ronsard mixed with some of the purples varieties.

Thank You World of Interiors

2010-07-22T06:22:00.001-04:00

The August issue of the World of Interiors has a wonderful leaf motif fabric feature “Leaves to be Desired.” I am really excited to have my Victoria fabric included on page nineteen.
The art direction of the shoot is fantastic; cascades of fabrics in the mossy forest is too dreamy.
Victoria leaf is the fabric on the left side of the spread on page XX. It is also comes in string, chocolate, lilac and new Wedgwood color pictured below.

The Garden Blogger's Retreat

2010-05-02T22:42:00.000-04:00

It is a real pleasure to have been included in this summers program at The Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge, MA. I was one of the five designers who reinvented a modest shed for: Living Stylishly in Nature: Re-Imagining the Humble Garden Shed. Each space is so different and brimming with ideas that it is a must see. Best part of all, if you love one, you can buy it and take it home! They are all on auction as a fund raiser for the garden. The exhibit of the sheds will be up until Labor Day 2010.

The inspiration shot that guided me through the design process. I loved the romance of the room with the fabric on the walls and the double mirrors, as well as the large windows. How to bring this into the 21 Century for a garden blogger????

I had exactly ten fun filled days on site to transform this humble building into something stylish.

This is what the interior looked like when I first arrived.

The same shed ten days later on opening day. This is where my chic imaginary garden blogger would sit while she is busy blogging. Thankfully computer batteries have improved, because the space is sans electricity. The dinky windows were changed out to a more suitable 3’ x 6’ windows which now floods the space with light. The walls are hung with my new print Chantal.

Thomas was amazing in his support and assistance through the entire project. He did the flowers. In this case that included a trip to the flower market in New York and bringing them up on the train.

I added two floor to ceiling mirrors to make the 10’0”X 10’0” space appear larger. The desk chair and small sofa are pieces from Hickory Chair which I had customized. The chair is in Ashley Plum and the small sofa is a stock heavily textured linen from Hickory Chair with pillows in my Window Box Lilac. The floor is painted from a design that was inspired by the timbering pattern of a 17th century house in Normandy. My good friend Dana Spot, who happens to be an outstanding decorative painter worked with me on the floor.

To jazz up the roof and hide the asphalt shingles, I called a local contractor Philip Bickerton. He upholstered the roof and installed the dogs. No easy feat given the dormer and the nature of heather fencing.

Elle Decor

2010-04-13T13:18:00.001-04:00

Aerin Lauder’s Hamptons house must be one of the most published houses of all time. The other day I spied the cover of German Elle Decor on the news stand having a tag line with her name in bold face type. I picked it up and there it was, all eight pages of it including the bedroom with my Gramercy fabric. It made my day. Thank you Aerin and Elle Decor!

Lilacs & Tulips

2010-04-05T10:25:00.000-04:00

After roses, lilacs and tulips are two of my favorite flowers. To me they are the embodiment of all the wonders of spring. Where I grew up, it was truly spring when the little village would smell of lilacs for days on end.

I am totally obsessed with this arrangement that Thomas did for the coffee table. Lilacs and tulips in shades of lilac bien sur.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T12:16:00.001-04:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter!

A Spring garden of flowers dresses our table for Easter dinner.

Thinking of Summer

2010-03-30T10:20:00.001-04:00

The new collection of summer products has started to arrive at Michael Devine Home. My Sienna, Pinwheel, Ashley, Garden Folly and Victoria patterns have been re-colored for the summer Signature Collection. I am definitely into all shades of purple, turquoise and green this year. Visit michaeldevinehome.com to view the rest of the collection.

It’s exciting to see the place mats and napkin rings in my fabric.

The large Victoria tray is going to look great in the garden this summer.

There are also new 8” x 12” trays in Pinwheel in Leaf and Azur.

Lotus Bleu & Better Homes and Gardens

2010-03-26T08:57:00.000-04:00

A project of San Francisco interior designer Jeannie Fraise was recently published in Better Homes and Gardens. While I was leafing through the magazine I stumbled on two images of my fabric Venice in Scarlet and Treillage. It’s always a pleasure to see how designers use my fabrics in their projects.

Jeannie is not only a wonderful interior designer, she also has a terrific store In San Francisco, called Lotus Bleu. Her joyful sense of color and pattern really comes in her selection of products and the images of the store on her website. I hope to be able to stop by the next time I am in San Francisco.

April Traditional Home

2010-03-21T11:21:00.000-04:00

The April Traditional Home is really great, not only is the amazing project of my friend Jamie Drake on the cover, but there’s a mention about my signature collection of trays. Thank you so much to Ann Omvig Maine and Sabine Rothman for including me in the issue.

The new summer collection is coming in and I am really excited about it. Not only are the small and large trays coming back in fun summer colors, I have also added place mats, napkin rings and some really cool luggage tags. With some luck it will be shot and posted by the end of the week.

The small Pinwheel tray in leaf on white.

Summer of Design at the Berkshire Botanical Garden

2010-03-19T19:21:00.000-04:00

Garden sheds reinvented into stylish living spaces is a concept that fascinates me. Having made my own humble shed into a chic dining room was a really fun project. This summer, the Berkshire Botanical Garden is presenting the work of ﬁve designers who are going to reinvent the basic shed.

Myself, along with the talents of Annie Selke of Pine Cone Hill, Sarah Thorne with Peter Thorne for Thorne Furniture and Decoration, James Shearron and Richard Bories architects and designers, and set producer Chase Booth will all be a part of the summer long event at the garden. The show opens May 1st.

The design concepts are as diverse as the designers. There will be an Adirondack style treehouse, a Berkshire Summer Studio and my concept for a Garden Bloggers Retreat. It will be well worth a visit to see the results and ﬁnd inspiration.

The Barn Raiser of Saugerties is sponsoring the exhibition. The sale of the sheds will beneﬁt the garden.

A New Garden Story

2010-03-09T12:27:00.001-05:00

A big thank you to Woman’s Day Garden & Outdoor Living! I love the story they did on my garden on pages 36-37 with photos by Tim Street Porter. The story is about transforming small spaces with vegetables and herbs. It seems like a very timely topic, given the debate about pesticides and genetic modification that is affecting our commercially grown food. Why not have the pleasure and certainty of growing your own?

HGTV"S Top 10

2010-02-03T10:24:00.000-05:00

Last summer HGTV’s Top 10 called to inquire about shooting my small apartment in Kinderhook. It was, to say the least a surprise. They were doing an episode on small spaces under 750 square feet. Mine is 650 square feet.

A very quick two weeks later they arrived. It gave me very little time to really prep. So naturally all the things I had been putting off to redo, are still waiting to be changed six months later! But, I did get the fabric printed for the duvet cover and shower curtain and fabricated and installed. The general design evolution of the space is still waiting for my attention.

The shoot was also very different from a magazine shoot. It is a much faster pace. They completed it in five hours instead of the normal two day magazine shoot, complete interview.

There are a few out takes on HGTV’s website or better yet, tune into it and see for your self.

2009-12-05T18:45:00.000-05:00

I was so happy when the Columbia County Historical Society invited me to decorate a mantle and wreath for their annual Gallery of Wreaths. It’s such a festive event and an important fund raiser for the group. This year the show is being held in the James Vanderpoel House, the main historic site owned by the group and an architectural gem of a building.

The wreaths are really beautiful and the variety of styles is a testimony to our local talent. You can bid on the wreaths by calling 518 758 9265. The show is open through next weekend. For details check out the their website CCHS.org.

The chartreuse ribbon is an unexpected color choice, but the range of natural greens and dash of burnished gold is only enhanced by the color.

A detail of the elements I used for the wreath and the garland.

This wreath was made by a local artist and store owner, Linda Heard of Lindowen's American Country. Her clear vision of American primitive always fascinates me.

This charming wreath was done by the local Girl Scout troop.

Thank You Zuniga Interiors and All the Best!

2009-11-06T11:07:00.000-05:00

It's been a really hectic couple of weeks and I owe a thank you to Zuniga Interiors blog and All the Best.

Michelle Zuniga who writes, Zunigainteriors.blogspot.com included me in her distinguished series “Designers Tell Their Favorites”. She has also profiled Anna Spiro of Absolutely Beautiful Things and Joni Webb of Cote de Texas.

All the Best did a profile on the amazingly talented designer, Sallie Giordano who works with her mother uber designer Leta Austin Foster. Within the profile there is a wonderful room she had done in Gramercy Chocolate. I really love the way she set the fabric into panels. It’s a modern interpetation of traditional. Thank you Sallie for the inspiration.