Architecture Around The World: Italy

http://en.polyglot-tutor.com/higher-education-in-italy/

The architecture of Italy is very broad and diverse in its design. Before the Italian unification, Italy was a divined nation, therefore, each city had a different architectural style. Italian architecture is not to be classified by region or period, but rather by its architectural achievements.  During the 8th century BC, ancient Rome was one of the largest empire's in the world. This time saw the construction of arches, domes and similar structures. During the late 14th and 16th centuries, the Renaissance architectural movement placed a great emphasis on symmetry, geometry and proportion. Italy is known as being the homeland of Palladianism, a style that inspired movements such as that of Neoclassical architecture, which places a great emphasis on tall columns, triangular pediment, and a domed roof. Neoclassical architecture can be found all over the world from the White House in the USA to the Australian Museum in Australia. Italian architecture has widely influenced architects throughout the centuries. British architect Inigo Jones, brought the ideas of Italian Renaissance to England during the 17th century. American architect Alexander Davis, brought the ideas of Gothic Revival to the USA during the 19th century. (ABOVE) The city of Venice was influenced by a style known as Venetian Gothic, which combined Byzantine and Moorish architecture. The Gothic period, was a time when Venice was prosperous and the upper class funded the building of new churches and lavish properties for themselves. (BELOW 1) The architecture found on the Amalfi Coast is greatly influenced by Medieval and Byzantine styles as well as the sharp lines found in northern architecture. (BELOW 2) The Trevi Fountain in Rome, is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. (BELOW 3) Verona is known for its iconic red roofs. The city is greatly influenced by Medieval architecture. (BELOW 4) Manarola is a beautiful small town located in Northern Italy, full of colorful buildings. (BELOW 5) Completed in 126 AD, the Pantheon in Rome, is a well known building in the Roman architectural style. The Pantheon is still well known for its impeccable dome, which is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. 

http://www.ecardmedia.eu/r_city_places_around_the_world_49_atrani_amalfi_coast_italy_41665.html
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Trevi_Fountain,_Rome,_Italy_2_-_May_2007.jpg
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http://www.fotopedia.com/items/flickr-3572758197
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http://puddlz.deviantart.com/art/Manarola-Italy-8502436
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http://students.cis.uab.edu/mehtsham/labs/etruscansandrome.html
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Like Italy, Italian home pieces are all different and are not designed based on a specific region or period. Italian home pieces are absolutely remarkable as each piece has a unique form. The Sciolari Chandeliers are quite popular in Italian design. The 1970s rare Sciolari chandelier is from Gaspare Asaro. The 1690 Italian cabinet is from Hansord. The piece reflects much of the intricate details found throughout Italian architecture. The 1989 Italian "Mongolfiera" chair by Atelier Fornasetti is from Holly Johnson Antiques. The chairs colors reflects the architecture found on the cost of Italy. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Featured Post: Italian Style

http://www.italy-pictures.net/

Yesterday I had the honor of being featured on LDV with this post. Here it is in case you missed it...

The architecture of Italy is very broad and diverse in its design. Before the Italian unification, Italy was a divined nation, therefore, each city had a different architectural style. Italian architecture is not to be classified by region or period, but rather by its architectural achievements. (ABOVE) The city of Venice was influenced by a style known as Venetian Gothic, which combined Byzantine and Moorish architecture. The Gothic period, was a time when Venice was prosperous and the upper class funded the building of new churches and lavish properties for themselves. (BELOW 1) Architect Andrea Palladio, modeled the facade of the San Giorgio Maggiore after a Greek temple. The beautiful white facade, with four columns and ornate details, is impeccable and makes a strong statement against the brick church. (BELOW 2) The Trevi Fountain in Rome, is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. The statues bordering the iconic fountain are so beautiful. (BELOW 3) Completed in 126 AD, the Pantheon in Rome, is a well respected building in the Roman architectural style. The Pantheon is still well known for its impeccable dome, which is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Which structure is your favorite? 

http://venice.umwblogs.org
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http://fwallpapers.com/
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http://students.cis.uab.edu/
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(1) Parker Combo Dress, (2) M Missoni Diagonal Stripe Colorblock Dress, (3) tuleste market Solid Petal Necklace, (4) Oliver Peoples Eyewear Mande Polarized Sunglasses, (5) M Missoni Shoulder Bag, (6) Maison Martin Margiela Open Toe Booties

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by the Italian city. Bold prints and bright colors represent the energy found in Milan, Rome, as well as the other iconic cities in Italy. The Missoni dress is a perfect choice. It's bold, and features a great stripe print. I am a huge fan of the petal necklace. What a perfect statement piece to go with the Missoni dress. Pair both dresses with the Missoni shoulder bag, and you've got the perfect Italian inspired ensemble. Which piece is your favorite?

http://www.ecardmedia.eu
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(ABOVE 4) The architecture found on the Amalfi Coast is greatly influenced by Medieval and Byzantine styles as well as the sharp lines found in northern architecture. (THE DESIGN PIECES) For the above home accessories, I was inspired by vintage Italian finds and bright colors. The 1960 Italian crystal chandelier is from Orange. What a great piece for an entrance foyer. The vintage Rya rug is from Nazmiyal. I love the color and pattern. What a perfect piece for a Master bedroom. The 1950 Italian vessel is from Lobel Modern. I would place the vessel on a vintage 1970s square table and place the table in the center of my entrance foyer. When guests walk in, they'll be greeted by a beautiful crystal chandelier and vessel. What do you think?

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Moving In: Italian Art Nouveau Villa

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

For this week's "Moving In" post I've decided to move in to this brilliant Italian Art Nouveau Villa, located in Brescia, Italy. The six bedroom, seven bathroom home is just the right amount of house! I imagine keeping the interiors more modern, clean, and simple, with a vintage flair and subtle pops of color. (ABOVE) When you pass the gate and drive up the long driveway you're greeted by classic Italian sculptures. Being that we're actually in Italy, I don't mind the classic sculptures. (BELOW 1) The home has a very classic architectural design. I like how the roof overhangs, as well as the unique details at the top, just below the roof. (BELOW 2) The stain glass windows surrounding the entry bring some character to the home. They make the right statement. I'm curious as to what the inscription above the windows states. Can anyone read it? (BELOW 3) To the right of the home is this patio. I like how the greens are growing above. What a great place to entertain, right by the pool. The space could use a little more furnishings. Maybe a sitting area? (BELOW 4) The property has many green areas. The property is well landscaped and features a pool! I'm sold. Would you move in? 

http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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The Dining Room: (1) Chandelier in Murano Glass from Justine Modern, (2) Tesselated Bone Desk Attributed to Enrique Garcel from Stripe Vintage Modern, (3) Vintage Moroccan Berber Carpet from Art Oriental GmbH, The Living Room: (5) "Cubic" Chandelier Gaetano Sciolari from Modern Drama, (6) Paul McCobb Settee from Converso, (7) Pedro Friedeberg Untitled Painting Signed 6/12

The Casual Look: (1) Peter Pilotto Leena Printed Top, (2) Michael Kors Stretch Shorts, (3) Loeffler Randall Simona Band Sandals, (4) Oliver Peoples Eyewear Afton Photochromic Sunglasses, (5) Hipanema Saint Tropez Bracelet, (6) Marc by Marc Jacobs Natural Selection Alicia Bag, The Formal Look: (7) J.Crew Mia Macramé Dress, (8) Dita Amant Sunglasses, (9) Shourouk Cora Zambia Rainbow Necklace, (10) Plomo Richelle Buckle Pumps

Person Of Influence: Andrea Palladio

http://architecture.about.com/od/greatbuildings/ig/Palladio/Villa-Almerico-Capra-.htm

Andrea Palladio was born in Italy in 1508. Palladio was influenced by Roman and Greek architecture and is widely considered the most influential person in the history of Western architecture. Many of Palladio’s buildings are of brick covered with stucco, which was an advantage to his more financially pressed clients. Palladio’s success and influence came from his structures extraordinary beauty and ornate details, that were harmonious with the culture of the time and surpassed his clients expectations. Even though Palladio’s buildings were all in a relatively small part of Italy, his influence is far-reaching, inspiring many architects to create structures that mirrored his style.  (ABOVE) The Villa Almerico Capra is symmetrical with a temple porch in front. The structure is also referred to as the Rotunda, which refers to the villa's circle within a square design. Palladio's inspiration for this structure was the Roman Pantheon. Thomas Jefferson was inspired by the Villa Almerico Capra when he designed his home, Monticello. (BELOW 1) Palladio modeled the facade of the San Giorgio Maggiore after a Greek temple. The beautiful white facade, with four columns and ornate details, is impeccable and make a strong statement against the brick church. (BELOW 2) The Villa Foscari was built between 1558 and 1560. It is relatively different from Palladio's other works. The touch of green ivy that runs the perimeter of the structure adds a natural touch to the structure by softening the brick. (BELOW 3) The Villa Contarini is a baroque structure. The exterior window moldings define the structure.

http://venice.umwblogs.org/exhibit/john-ruskin-the-adopted-venetian/ruskins-the-stones-of-venice/
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Foscari
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Contarini
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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 Andrea Palladio's buildings in your home is to bring in stone, neutral colors, and intricate subtle details. The "Mongolfiera" 1980s Italian chair by Piero Fornasetti is from Holly Johnson. The beautiful design on the back of the chair resembles the details seen throughout Palladio's work. These details can be seen in the window moldings and sculptures. The 21st century, Italian Taksim side table by Konstantin is from Siglo Moderno. The marble and color resembles the facade of the San Giorgio Maggiore. The vintage Turkish 1940s rug is from Keivan Woven Arts. The rugs color and details resembles the Villa Almerico Capra, and Villa Contarini. The 1970s Italian chandelier by Kamer is from Visiona. The shape resembles the columns, in addition, the crisp white resembles the simplicity of Palladio's work. What inspires you about Andrea Palladio's work? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Weekly Start Off: No 11

Happy Monday, February 24, 2013 readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend! For this week's "Weekly Start Off" post I decided to turn my focus towards classic architecture. I love classic architecture, because you can furnish your home in a wide array of styles. Like modern, traditional, eclectic, and live in a classically built house? No problem! All these interior styles will work and look great in any one of these homes.

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

1. A beautiful Neo-Classical home located in Newport Beach, CA with unparalleled views of the water. Despite the home being rather new, it looks like it has been around for quite some time. I find the many windows, and doors to enhance the overall architecture of the house. The well maintained lawn and planting add to the beauty. I wish I was kicking back by the pool right now!

http://www.christiesrealestate.com

2. A wonderful manor house located in Switzerland. The home's architecture has a classic Swiss feel. I absolutely love the center dome. It's a touch of the unexpected. If you place your finger over the dome and half circle entryway the home has a very ordinary look. The dome and half circle entryway make the home. The potted flowers and shrubs, add color where needed. 

http://www.stribling.com

3. London has some of the most magnificent looking townhouses. Townhouses like the one above, for example, are clean and manage to add a little green life to their facade. The window cornices are necessary to give the facade some architectural pizazz. When you think about it, a townhouse only has the front face to make a statement. Heavily adorned cornices, and doors, and detailed window fences as well as phenomenal edging is needed. I love the flower boxes!

http://www.christiesrealestate.com

4. This house pays homage to many different classic architecture styles. Greek, Italian, French, English, styles have influenced the architecture of the home. The triangular design above the front door is very Greek as well as Italian, Palladio. The windows, doors, and Manson roof are very French. And the way the stone is arranged on the front facade, reminds me of an English townhouse. 

http://www.christiesrealestate.com

5. Located in Italy, this home has commanding views of the sea. The home's architecture is heavily influenced by Greek design and the work of Palladio. If you image the home without the columns it would have a completely different look. It would not have the same grandeur, nor the same elegance. 

My Three Tips: To A Well Decorated Dining Room

http://www.delightfull.eu/en/

Tip #1: Buy A Light Fixture That Pop's

When you look at your dining room, what's the first thing that you look at? If you said table, than your light fixture ain't poppin'! Your light fixture should make one of the biggest statements in your dining space. A brilliant light fixture sets the tone in the space, and makes the space. It's sort of like walking out of the house without a jewlery piece or your iPhone. It's that little sparkle and shine that the space needs. 

Tip #2: Spice Up Your Ceiling   

The first post I posted on BAD in 2011 was about spicing up your ceiling. Two years later, I still strongly advocate making your fifth wall something to remember. Of course a white ceiling looks nice, but there's something about a ceiling that is painted stripes, or done in wood paneling that brings it all together. I'm sort of going through a bit of a mental dining room renovation of my dining room. I'm dreaming of a dark wood paneled ceiling, and walls, with a fantastic 60s Italian light fixture. 

Tip #3: Make It Personal   

So many dining rooms these days look like they came out of a catalog. Please! Make your dining room--you! Add a painting of your granny (well...), mix and match the seating, bring in some vintage lamps. Your home is an extension of your wardrobe. Let's put it this way. The apps on your phone are different than the apps on your friends phone. Your dining room should be different, it should be personal. What are your three tips? 

(ABOVE) I love this light fixture. It's that statement piece that I'm writing about! It sort of looks like a musical instrument (trumpet?)   

http://www.lonny.com
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(1) In this dining space featured in lonny, the ceiling is original and funky. Just like BAD likes it! The wood molding that runs along the inner part of the ceiling brings texture into the space. 

http://www.elledecor.com
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(2) The space belongs to fashion editor Kim Hersov. Why do I like this space? It's her! It doesn't look like it came out of a catalog. It's elegant, yet still has that rock-n-roll sprit. The candlesticks are from her grandmother and the chandelier is 60s Italian. 

http://www.gomoneyways.com
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(3) How great are these floor to ceiling, wall to wall bookshelves? Bookshelves in the dining room are the ultimate personal touch. Looking at the books one reads is as personal as it gets. If you want to break up the rows and stacks of books, than stack your books in different directions, and add a few decorative objects in between. 

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