Featured Post: California Glamour

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Yesterday, I had the honor of being featured on LDV with this post. Here is the post in case you missed it...When I think of California, I think of large estates set on perfectly manicured lawns, stylish women dressed in stunning outfits, and views of mountains and pristine beaches. (ABOVE) Designed by Warren Callister on Belvedere Island, this stunning California home has views of the Golden Gate Bridge.  The landscaping gives the home an intimate feel. The mansard roof was a great choice as it plays up the home's elegance. (BELOW 1) Nestled behind trees, this modern home is located in Santa Barbra. It has a very 70s inspired architecture, very modern California glamour. The landscaping surrounding the home stays in line with the home's modern architecture. It's clean, simple, and well maintained. (BELOW 2) This European inspired villa is located in Holmby Hills. The front doors are absolutely stunning. The black stands out against the limestone facade. I love the tree in front of the left window. It has such an unusual form and makes a big statement as people come to the front door. (BELOW 3) The backyard of this Santa Barbra mansion is breathtaking. The many boxwoods create a nice "fence" around the pool which has sweeping views of the sea. I could see the most glamorous photoshoot taking place here. Which estate is your favorite? 

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(1) Milly Joselyn Beaded Dress, (2) Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti Jeweled Collar Sweater Dress, (3) Noir Jewelry Neon Crystal Pendant Necklace, (4) Alexander McQueen Metallic Two Tone Sunglasses, (5) Anya Hindmarch Valorie Clutch, (6) Elizabeth and James Paige Flat Metallic Sandals

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by both Malibu and Beverly Hills. The beaded Milly dress could be worn for a stroll with your loved one on the beach or to chic restaurant in Beverly Hills. The Noir necklace has both a casual vibe with the robe chain and formal vibe with the crystal pendant. It's the perfect Malibu-Beverly hills inspired piece. The Anya clutch is just the right amount of sparkle for you outfit. A little black glamour? Which piece is your favorite? 

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(ABOVE 4) The Mediterranean Revival, Hearst Mansion located in San Simeon, has sweeping views of the mountains and shore. The home was designed by architect Julia Morgan who had originally planned to design a small bungalow for William Hearst. After a month of discussion the decision for a small bungalow grew into a large scale castle. What are your thoughts on the Hearst Castle? (ABOVE 5) Designer Kelly Wearstler is well known for her love of Hollywood Regency. This fantastic sitting area has all the elements for California glamour. How amazing is that large sculpture to the far right? I love all the stone! What do you think of the Kelly Wearstler space? 

Mediterranean Villa In California

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Situated on over eleven acres, with views of the mountains, ocean, and harbor, this Mediterranean villa in California is absolutely breathtaking. (ABOVE) Right from the front gate, you are a greeted by beauty. Surrounded by nature and a winding path, this villa is a breath of fresh air. (BELOW 1) The villa's backyard is beautifully landscaped. I love the grass around the pool and the higher elevated portion of the lawn. Both the landscaping and architectural style of the villa compliment each other. (BELOW 2) I love the variation of shrubs. Overall, I find this villa to look very relaxing. It has great seclusion and is not overpowering architecturally. What are your thoughts about the villa?

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When I choose these pieces I focused on unusual shapes and soft colors. Around the home you'll find great pops of color in the landscaping, however, the villa is a lighter color with a signature red Mediterranean style roof. These pieces would look amazing if placed in this home. The 1960s Doria Ball Chandelier is from Prime Gallery LLC. The Ceramic Vases are from Blend Interiors. I love their organic shapes. The vases are also in the same color family as the villa. The Vintage Swedish Rug is from Nazmiyal. The rug represents the beauty of a Mediterranean styled roof. Which piece is your favorite? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

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Views Of The San Francisco Skyline

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Designed by architect Warren Callister, this 9,500 sq. ft. home is situated on Belvedere Island with unobstructed views of the San Francisco skyline. The home is the perfect example of classic luxury. I could see myself waking up in this home any day! (ABOVE) The home's manicured lawns are as breathtaking as the views. Despite the home's large size, the landscaping gives the home an intimate feel. The mansard roof was a great choice as it plays up the home's elegance. (BELOW 1) The home is perfect for one who loves views of the water and one who loves views of the city. The shrubs that are growing on the side of the cliff, soften the home. (BELOW 2) I love the two separate landscaped areas. By having the right side of the property elevated, one can enjoy unobstructed views of the skyline.  

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These pieces would look amazing if placed in this home. When choosing these pieces I was inspired by Asian influences and 70s glamour. Mixing styles in a space is always a great way to add a touch of surprise. The 1960s Italian Lucite Drum Chandelier is from Flessas Design. The chandelier is classic with a bit of edge. The 19th century Chinese chair is from Pagoda Red. I am a huge fan of the chair's lines. The vintage 20th century Moroccan rug is from Nazmiyal. The landscaping was my inspiration when choosing the rug. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

A Historic Estate In The Belgium Countryside

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Designed in the 17th-century in Northwest Belgium, this stunning estate is impeccably constructed with grounds that are brilliantly laid out. The grounds of this estate were designed by Wirtz International. (ABOVE) The estate’s whimsical feel is fantastic. In addition, the landscaping adds a sense of fantasy and curiosity. (BELOW 1) The estate is very symmetrical. Therefore, I like that Wirtz International added much variety of shrubs and flowers throughout the landscaping. (BELOW 2) The pool deck of the estate is very Japanese inspired. I like how it contrasts from the classic architecture of the main structure. (BELOW 3) Wirtz International, added an excellent  hornbeam hedge privacy screen for the homeowners. (BELOW 4) It would bee my dream to run alongside these apple and pear trees!

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Living On The Bay

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This beautiful modern bay house designed by Luigi Rosselli architects is located in Sydney, Australia. (ABOVE) The home's clean lines and rounded corners are simple and architectural. The landscaping reflects the home's simplicity. (BELOW 1) The overhanging roof is wonderful, I love the shapes and variation and how each overhang is offset. Without the roof the home would not make such a strong statement. (BELOW 2) The front doors are a strong statement with their neutral toned pattern. The gray shutters are a unique architectural element. (BELOW 3) I love the clear guard rail and steel screws that hold the rail in place. What a wonderful view of the bay! What do you think of this home? 

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A Texas Dream Home

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Located on a fantastic hill in Austin, Texas is this Mediterranean inspired villa. I love a Mediterranean villa! The home is situated on over four acres of land. (ABOVE) The home has a great symmetry and balance. Once you turn onto the slopped driveway you are surrounded by views of the country, and city. The front landscaping is minimal, the focus is the home and the views. (BELOW 1) The Infinite pool makes you feel like you are floating in the sky and amongst the top of the trees. The backyard features a few terraces and balconies, which allows you to enjoy the views and be shielded from the elements. (BELOW 2) While you are lounging in the pool take a few steps over to the outdoor dining area, and put some food on the grill! The fireplace comes in handy during the cooler Texas months. What I really love is the wood ceiling. It adds a rich texture, and warmth. What do you think of the property? 

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Living Luxuriously On The Waterfront

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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.

New Home, Built To Last

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This 2000 home, designed by Robert A.M Stern Architects is a beautiful example of how a newer built home can still be a well built nineteenth century English Estate. Located in Dallas, Texas, Robert A.M Stern Architects used brick and limestone trim for the facade of the structure and slate for the roof. Below, your eye is drawn to the beautiful landscaping. The clean cut grass, trees, and shrubs allow the home to be made the central focus. 

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Castle Design: Château De Chambord Castle

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The Château de Chambord in Loire-et-Cher, France is a magnificent site. Chambord is the largest château in the Loire Valley, it was built to serve as a hunting lodge for King François I. Chambord was built in the 16th century, and is well known for its French Renaissance architecture. (ABOVE) I love this photograph of the castle. The way the sun hits the castle as well as the castle's reflection on the water is breathtaking. I like how both sides of the castle mirror each other. (BELOW 1) An aerial view of the castle calls to attention its grand scale. I like the clean cut lawn and simple landscaping, however, beautiful gardens and a lush courtyard would enhance the castle's appeal. (BELOW 2) A close up of the roof, reveals its magnificent details. I find the roof to be the focal point of the castle. The roof looks like the skyline of a beautiful city or town. What do you love about the Château de Chambord?

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