'Mad Men' Through A 21st Century Lens

http://www.shutterstock.com

It seems like everyone I know is talking about 'Mad Men'. The show takes place in the 1960s a time of impeccable fashion and design. The 1960s is hands down my favorite time in design. Shutterstock created this graphic series, which takes symbols of the 60s characters and transforms them through a 21st century lens. What would Donald Draper or Peggy Olson be using had they been working in 2013. (ABOVE) Rather than keeping everything in a briefcase, and having to carry it around all day, save it to the cloud. It's efficient and won't strain your back! (BELOW 1) Who needs a typewriter in 2013 when you can simply use a Macbook Pro? Had Peggy Olson been working in 2013, she could forget about needing the Tipp-Ex. (BELOW 2) In the 1960s, Betty Francis would smoke a cigarette when she felt stressed out. Today she'd do some yoga. A much better way of dealing with stress. (BELOW 3) No longer does Joan Harris need to write notes on a notepad. In 2013 Joan would be typing away on her iPad. To be honest, I prefer using a notepad! What do you think of the series? Are you a 'Mad Men' fan? 

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Person Of Influence: Andy Warhol

Self-Portrait, 1986 by Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol was born in Pennsylvania, in 1928. Warhol was a well known American painter, printmaker, filmmaker and leading figure of the pop art movement. The pop art movement emerged in England, during the early 1950s and in the late 1950s in the United States. Coining the term “15 minutes of fame” in 1968, Warhol believed in the future everyone will be famous for a short time. Warhol’s 1963 canvas “Eight Elvises” sold for US$100 million, the highest price paid for a Warhol painting. (ABOVE) Warhol’s 1986, self-portrait, focuses on the artists energy and often time eccentric style. (BELOW 1) Warhol’s “Red Liz”, is part of a series of portraits he executed in the 1960s. (BELOW 2) Fame fascinated Warhol, not only did he want to be famous, but he also wanted to paint famous  people.“Turquoise Marilyn”, is part of series of portraits in which Warhol uses different colors, and shapes. The Marilyn series is one of Warhol’s most known works. (BELOW 3) Warhol and Jackie O were close friends, and the former First Lady was a frequent guest at Warhol’s various events. What do you love about Warhol and his work? 

Red Liz, 1962 by Andy Warhol

Turquoise Marilyn, 1964 by Andy Warhol

Red Jackie, 1964 by Andy Warhol

Create This Look In Your Home:

Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the look of Andy Warhol’s paintings in your home is to bring in color, prints, and texture. The 1960s USA, Candy Darling Wing Back chair is from Satyricon. It’s bold strip pattern and rich color is very Warhol. The 1960s, Emerald Glass Chandeliers are from Amsterdam Modern, so Warhol. This vintage 1970s print from Emmerson Troop Inc. is a replica of Warhol’s painting. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Fashion Meets Brutalist Design

Look 1

http://maciejratajski.blogspot.com/2011/08/fk-yeah-brutalism.html

The Monument, Villa-Lobos Park, Sao Paolo, Brazil is an example of Brutalist Architecture. The clean lines and raw concrete material of the structure are the core of Brutalism. What fascinates me about this structure is the large overhang. It is extremely functional as it protects the stage from the elements, yet has a remarkable form. The seating that spans the outside of the stage has built in stairs, which is a unique design element and allows for easy access to the stage.

Create This Look In Your Home:

Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the look of this Brutalist structure in your home is to bring in neutral colors, concrete, and minimal clutter. Neutral colors can be brought in through rugs, furniture and paint. Concrete can be brought in through tabletops and sculptures. Minimal clutter is all about pieces that have modern finishes, and not too much details. The 1940s Steel and Rush chair is by Colette Gueden and from Alan Moss. The Rush seat and back are in the same color family as the structure. The Steel frame has clean lines, as does the structure. The 1960s winged Brass Brutalist chandelier is by Feldman Co. and from Dolce. The chandelier’s jagged edges resemble the structures cracked surface. In addition I choose the chandelier because, it is in the true spirit of Brutalism. The 20th Century lime green glazed bowl is by Otto + Gertrud Natzler and from Archer. The simple finish and rich green color resembles both the grass and simplicity of the structure. The brown rim of the bowl is in a similar color family as the structure. The vintage 1970s abstract Ceramic bust is from Showplace Antique + Design Center. If you look at the structure’s overhang you will notice solid grayish stripes running horizontally. In between the stripes is a brownish color. I choose the Ceramic bust because, it mirrors the variation in color of the structure’s overhang. The vintage Wool 20th century Moroccan rug is from Nazmiyal. The delicate vertical stripes mirror the structures seating and stairs.

Dress It Up This Way:

This look resembles aspects of both the structure and featured home look. The black leather and wool bomber jacket with curved shoulders is by Rick Owens. The jacket’s clean lines greatly resemble the clean lines of the structure. The knee length pleated herringbone wool skirt is by Mulberry. The skirt’s pleated design, and Yves Saint Laurent  shoes resemble the structures stairs and seating. The leather Edie purse is from J. Crew. The mint colored purse and Paloma Crystal sunglasses resemble the grass.

Look 2

http://www.interiorarcade.com/

This fascinating room is designed by architect Guilherme Torres. The room is the essence of Brutalism because, it uses concrete, the furniture has angular forms and the structural materials of the building are exposed. The blue sofa has many patterned pillows on it. The patterned pillows break the clean minimalist design and give the space more color and warmth. The textured rug has a rough surface which is quite popular in Brutalist spaces. The low hanging chandelier is a smart idea because, of the high ceilings. In addition, the low hanging chandelier provides effective light which lessens the need of a table lamp. 

Create This Look In Your Home:

Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the look of this Brutalist space in your home is to bring in a gray color palette with a splash of color, concrete, and texture. Gray can be brought in through tabletops, furniture and paint. Concrete can be brought in through chairs and sculptures. Texture can be brought in through rugs, pillows, and plush materials. The 1960s jeweled crystal and Chrome pendant is by Lobmeyr and from Decorum. The pendant’s beautiful crystals resemble the chandelier used above the desk. The pendant’s clean lines and simple form resemble the overall look of the space. The 1960s ribbon chairs are from Robert Dickson and Lesley Rendall. The chairs white color and form resemble the desk chair and lamp shades. The silver frame resembles the exposed building materials. The vintage Wool 20th century Moroccan rug is from Nazmiyal. The rugs striking color add an element of surprise. In addition, the rug’s texture resembles the vast array of pillows on the sofa. 

Dress It Up This Way:

This look resembles aspects of both the space and featured home look. The outfit is from the Spring 2012 collection by Louis Vuitton. The bold blue color is in the same color family as the sofa, the gentle flowers resemble the patterns on the pillows. The white sunglasses  with gold detail are from the Spring 2012 collection by Louis Vuitton, they resemble the rug and desk chair. The white paper box-style leather clutch bag is by Maison Martin. The simple clutch and Satin Charlotte Olympia pumps mirror the overall simplicity of the space. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Living Luxuriously On The Waterfront

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

Nestled between the trees, on the shores of Lake Geneva, Switzerland, sits a 1923 mansion. With a beautiful tan stone and white façade, with mint green shutters and meticulously groomed lawn, the mansion is at once grand, but inviting. (ABOVE) The grouping of shrubs adjacent the fountain separate the open lawn by defining the space. The semi-hipped roof allows for the instillation of windows. (BELOW 1) A breezeway connects the two structures and a large driveway accommodates guests. The touch of shrubs on either side of the front entrance soften the driveway and home. (BELOW 2) The shrubs at the edge of the pool deck define the space. The balcony is functional as it permits entertaining on the deck and below. The ivy softens the black iron fence. (BELOW 3) The stone pool deck is modern and contrasts with the traditional architecture of the mansion. The green tiled pool bottom complements the beautiful green lawn. The black arm chairs feature a design that resembles the iron work of the fence. 

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Create This Look In Your Home:

Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the look of this mansion in your home is to bring in neutral colors, metals, and subtle details. Neutral colors can be brought in through rugs, furniture and paint. Metals can be brought in through vases, sculptures  and light fixtures. Subtle details can be brought in through a unique pattern and an unexpected item. The 1980s Milo Baughman, originally upholstered arm chairs with a gold base, are from Talisman. I choose these arm chairs because, they are in the same color family as the tan stone and white façade of the mansion. In addition, the soft lines on the back of the arm chairs mirror the windows grille pattern. The vintage 1960s brass ceiling lamp, is from Rewire LA. The ceiling lamp resembles the lush landscaping and shrubbery. The vintage Wool 20th century Moroccan rug is from Nazmiyal. The rug is in the same color family as the pool deck, the black pattern on the rug resembles the iron fence and lounge chairs. The 1970s bronze figurative sculpture, is from Talisman. The sculpture's intricate details and rich movement resembles the iron fence. The 1960s porcelain plates are from Vandekar. They remind me of the beautiful tile found at the bottom of the pool. The 1940s Barry Reid vase is from Sam Kaufman Gallery. The rich blue color of the vase is in a similar color family as the window shutters. In addition, the cracked design of the vase resembles the balcony deck floor. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Space's I'm Loving: Part XIV

http://www.lonny.com

Why I Love This Space: I love this space's laid back, chic feel, as well as the pottery and sculpture 

Kelly Wearstler has done it again! This time, she has waved her magic Wearstler wand to design this outdoor seating area at her California home. The seating area was actually featured in Lonny Magazine and was designed to entertain Wearstler on Mother's day. The different pillows, and chairs, are chic, but because of their difference, give the space a more laid back feel. The head sculpture on the table is fabulous, the Mow Hawk hair crystals look like jewelry. Do you like the space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://www.catherinekwong.com/

Why I Love This Space: I love this space's 1920s/ 1960s feel. It's the perfect mix of old glamour meets modern glamour 

This space has a fantastic 1920s/1960s vibe. The architecture of the space is clearly very turn of the century. Gold leafing, highly decorated moldings, and fireplace with columns. The actual pieces in the space are very 60s. Take for example, the scones, sofa, and arm chairs. The flooring in the space is dark, to allow for the architecture and furniture pieces to speak without competition. You can really see how all the gold accents move through the space. Do you like the space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

http://www.architecturaldigest.com

Why I Love This Space: I love this space's use of color, and unique pieces

Talk about a space with a lot of energy. The bright blue arm chairs, sculptural silver sofa, clear standing lamps are all unique pieces that work well together. The bright blue arm chairs have a very 20s feel. My favorite piece in the space would have to be the two clear standing lamps. They have both a vintage feel, but also a futuristic-like feel. Do you like the space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do. 

http://www.vogue.com

Why I Love This Space: I love this space's architecture 

This entry way and Dining area are all about the architecture. The archways, and slightly bending staircase in the entry way, and built in cabinets and old windows in the Dining area are very impressive. These space's feel inviting, simple, and do not compete, rather enhance the architecture. The archways allow for added height, the staircase has a feeling of being grand, but not too over the top. The built in cabinet allows for more square footage, and the original windows make one feel like they are dining in a home with much history. Do you like the space? You can add as little or as much to your home as you want. Don't follow rules, just do. 

Person Of Influence: Willem de Kooning

http://www.wikipaintings.org/en/willem-de-kooning/two-women-in-the-country

Willem de Kooning was born in the Netherlands, April 24, 1904. Kooning is a well known abstract expressionist artist. Kooning described art and the process of art with the following quote: "Art never seems to make me peaceful or pure. I always seem to be wrapped up in the melodrama of vulgarity". In 1950 Kooning began to focus on the female figure in an unusual way. His approach involved "savagely applying pigments to the canvas and the use of colors that seem to have been vomited on the canvas to reveal a woman all too congruent with some of modern man's most widely held sexual fears. The toothy snarls, over ripe pendulous breasts, vacuous eyes, and blasted extremities imagined the darkest Freudian insights" (1). In November 2006, Kooning's Woman III was sold for $137.5 million, making it the second most expensive painting ever sold. (ABOVE) Two Women In The Country is a beautiful piece by Kooning. The depth of colors and shapes to create the women is remarkable. I find this painting showing the power, energy, and strength of a woman. What do you think? (BELOW 1) The wave is a great piece. The variation in colors and brush technique is the essence of a wave. I find the yellow to represent the suns reflection on the water. What do you think? (BELOW 2) The Abstraction, 1950, is very expressionistic. The straight black lines and unique shapes make a powerful statement. The skull in the lower right hand corner adds a dark and emotional message to the painting. What do you think?

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Create This Look In Your Home:

Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the look of Willem de Kooning's paintings in your home is to bring in bright colors and different shapes. Bright colors can be brought in through rugs, furniture and paint. Different shapes can be brought in through tabletops, sculptures and lighting. The 1970s deep turquoise molded glass head is from Galerie Sommerlath. I choose this sculpture because, it resembles aspects of both the second and third paintings. In addition, the sculptures unique glass movement is similar to the movement of Kooning's paintings. The 1960s cream and red four Tiered Vistosi chandelier is from Flesses Design. The chandelier's disks resemble the many circular shapes in Kooning's paintings. In addition, the yellow and red disks are in the same color family as many of Kooning's paintings. The 1950s Italian lounge chair is by Giulia Veronese and from Michael Contessa. I love the deep purple and beautiful form. The lounge chair's form is very similar to the unique curves of Kooning's second painting. The 1960s red vintage Moroccan rug is from Amadi Carpets. The various colors in the rug are also in the paintings. In addition, the rugs straight lines are mirrored in the black straight lines of the first and third Kooning painting. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

(1) Credit for Quote

My Three Tips: To A Well Styled Coffee Table

http://myvibemylife.com/?p=3165

Tip #1: Have A Conversation Piece 

A great 1960s vase or 18th century sculpture is the perfect centerpiece for any coffee table. Head over to your favorite vintage shop or local home accessories store and select a centerpiece for your coffee table, that has some meaning to you. Be sure the centerpiece fits into the overall design of your space. When guests ask about the centerpiece you'll have the perfect story!   

Tip #2: Add Flowers    

Flowers are the perfect way to add some life to your space. Cherry Blossoms are my favorite, and you'll always spot some in my home. Select a bouquet of flowers for your coffee table that you love. You want to be sure the flowers are fresh and are in the right vase. Four flowers in a large vase looks quite silly, so be sure the vase doesn't eat the flowers!

Tip #3: Be Wary of Clutter & Scale  

Having too much clutter on your coffee table is a big no-no. Selecting two to three pieces is the perfect amount of accessories for your coffee table. You want to be sure that you don't have all tall pieces or all short pieces on your coffee table. For example, if you buy a large centerpiece be sure to buy a smaller vase for your flowers. By keeping the scale of your accessories balanced your coffee table will have the right amount of style. 

(ABOVE) I love this coffee table styled by Kelly Wearstler. The beautiful diamond jewelry against the leopard print table, creates the perfect conversation. Using jewelry as a coffee table accessory is a great way to add some unexpected glamour. Buy a tray and place a few of your favorite pieces for a little shine and sparkle. (BELOW 1) I choose this Living Room because, of the beautiful Cherry Blossoms and right scaling. Because the flowers are larger, the smaller accessories create the right balance. I also like the simple legs of the table, they work beautifully with the traditional mantle. (BELOW 2) Buying a few coffee tables or one with multiple surfaces like the one below, is a great choice. Having a few coffee tables is a practical idea as its easier to move a smaller table, then a larger one. Be sure to place your larger accessories on the middle tables and smaller accessories on the outer tables, for the perfect balance. (BELOW 3) Buying a fun coffee table is always a great choice. I love this checkered coffee table. Checkered coffee tables can work in many different types of spaces. What do you love about these spaces? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

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Nature Meets Design: The Jellyfish

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com

Nature has a strong influence on the way I design, because of its constant change and unexpected beauty. The Jellyfish Cotylorhiza is a magnificent creature. Its burst of color is both beautiful and unexpected. As it sits just beneath the surface of the Mar Menor coastal lagoon, it captures the magnificent light of the sunrise. As beautiful as it may look, the Jellyfish Cotylorhiza can give you a nasty bite. The photographer has beautifully curved the surface of the water as to mirror the curve of the Jellyfish's body. (BELOW) Whether you buy these items or ones at a cheaper cost, the key to recreating the style of the jellyfish in your home is to bring in purple and different shapes. Purple can be brought in through rugs, furniture and paint. Different shapes can be brought in through tabletops, sculptures and lighting. The impeccable 1960s, purple Vistosi discs chandelier is from Venfield. It resembles the tentacles of the Jellyfish. The purple 1980s Vladimir Kagan swivel  armchair is from Talisman. The curved form of the armchair resembles the curve of the purple tip of the Jellyfish's tentacles.  The pair of Beranek 1970s glass vases is from Mary Ann Lembo. The unique form of the vases resembles both the movement of the water and Jellyfish. The mid 20th century Scandinavian rug is from Nazmiyal. The rug and Jellyfish posse similar colors. What do you love about these pieces? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.   

Create This Look In Your Home:

The Iconic Swivel Tub Chair

Photography by Astor Place

My love of the Swivel Tub chair has grown deep in recent years. It's a piece that will remain iconic for many years to come. I believe that seating should have some type of unusual form. The Swivel Tub Chairs comes in many forms. (ABOVE) This version of the chair is great for a Dining Room, meeting room, or office space. Its more compact than the chair below and it's comfortable to sit in for a long period of time. I find this version of the chair more mid 1960s. (BELOW) This is a wider version of the chair. I would use this chair for a Living Room or Bedroom. I like the original material of this chair and thinner base. I find this version of the chair more mid 1950s. The Swivel Tub Chair is an amazing burst of energy. They're great for curling up in and reading a book by the fire. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do. 

Photography by Talisman

Spaces I'm Loving: Part I

http://polishedplum.blogspot.com/2010/02/polished-office.html

Why I Love This Space: I love this space because, of its bold design. 

For instance, the armchairs have the most beautiful form. The chairs red upholstery contrasted with its white legs, adds a kick to the space. The white desk contrasted with its yellow cabinets, adds a burst of happiness. Finally, the dark floors allow the light furniture to really pop! This space is simple, elegant, and has just the right amount of surprise. Why do you love this space?

http://www.markdsikes.com/tag/miles-redd/

Why I Love This Space: I love this space because, of its traditional elegance mixed with contemporary touches. I love this space because of its unique layout.

The orange upholstered King Louis chair is a traditional statement in any space, however, the simple coffee table is modern. These two contrasting styles work beautifully together. Finally, the way in which the room is laid out fascinates me. The built in seating to the right is not typically seen in Living Rooms. Why do you love this space?

http://plushemisphere.com/2011/11/blue-and-brown-bedroom-design-ideas/

Why I Love This Space: I love this space because, of its laid back comfort mixed with elegant touches.

This Bedroom feels like a space I'd want to come home to at the end of the day. It's elegant yet it does not feel stiff. The traditional fireplace brings an elegant edge to the space, while the casual bed dressings and wicker armchairs give one the feeling of being on the beach. I am not sure what material the round table to the left of the photograph is, however, it reminds me of cork; another laid back element to the space. Why do you love this space?

http://www.astylistslife.com/2010/06/nate-berkus-day.html

Why I Love This Space: I love this space because, of its 1960s-70s glamour.

If you have been reading (BAD) Blog About Design for some time you will have noticed my fascination with the 60s-70s. There is something amazing about this period in design, fashion, and culture. The black cabinet to the right of the photograph, and center coffee table are absolutely amazing. The simple touches of silver have the perfect amount of reflection to liven the space. The standing lamp next to the couch screams late 60s early 70s. The gold finish is so elegant next to the white sofa. Why do you love this space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.