sandr018

In the wealth of saved emails from penpal Neil, Powis Castle stands out as a remarkable building site. The medieval castle dates from the 13th century but has been improved and built upon until the present time. The gardens however are the real thing to see here. Taking advantage of the hilltop site, the baroque gardens original to the 17th century, terrace down the hillside creating dramatic views of the castle in Italian style.  They were extensively restored by Violet Herbert , Countess of Powis, beginning in 1911 and becoming her life's work until her death by car crash in 1929. Although a castle is essentially a fortress, a military stronghold, the multiple rebuilding of the structure and addition of expansive windows have created a palace over time. I'm sure the original occupants wouldn't recognize their early home 800 years later. Perhaps the courtyard entrance below which remains the most unchanged would appear familiar. One can see why such an old fortress would ...

The most highly anticipated book this year has got to be architect  Gil Schafer's "A Place to Call Home" from Rizzoli .  His first book, 2012's "The Great American House" , was a huge hit and is one of my top favorite design books in my library. The book is split into 2 parts: the first he discusses what resonates with him when designing a house for a client (or himself) and the second part takes an in depth look at some of his more recent projects.  I think one of the reasons Schafer's work is so popular is that he believes in the maxim God is in the details . In no project is this more important than in a home where someone lives with and physically touches each design decision on a daily basis. Schafer is a residential master; the projects in the book range from the traditional architecture he is known for to more modern styles. The book is written so conversationally one walks away feeling you've made a new friend!   It's easy to form a con...

Book publishing season is upon us and it feels like everyday a great new design book hits the stands to devour! Rizzoli is about to release "Making House: Designers at Home"  by Dominic Bradbury which is one of those great peaks into our favorite designer's own homes -many that will surprise you! Kelly Wearstler 's Malibu house definitely fits into her aesthetic with these highly refined marble built-ins in her living room which are astounding. Wait until you see the adjoining fireplace!!! The London home of textile designer Neisha Crosland is highly undecorated, which I love to see, and reflects her fun personality. Those double oak leaf chandeliers I want so badly!! Such a fun idea to upholster all of the dining room chairs differently too. Italian architect Piero Lisson i's minimal home in Tuscany will soothe and calm your senses.  This metal staircase may be my favorite thing I've seen in awhile: simple yet elegant.  I wish our codes in the USA would all...