June « 2009 «

June 26, 2009

Chinoiserie Screen: A Timeless Interior Design Classic

Filed under: Art and Culture, Fabric Usage, Wall Decoration, art hanging and installation. — Tags: Chinese antiques, chinoiserie screens, chinoiserie wallpaper, do it yourself chinese screen project, do it yourself project, wallpaper and fabric co-ordinates — Leona Gaita @ 2:14 PM

(AND DO-IT-YOURSELF CHINESE SCREEN PROJECT)

The folding Chinoiserie Screen has been a classic piece in interior design for centuries for several good reasons. First and foremost, they’re beautiful. They add an exotic Eastern flavor to any room. Lately I’ve noticed a trend among designers toward the use of this decorative staple, as part of an elegant yet unpretentious approach to the design of comfortable living spaces.

This beautiful room is by Alessandra Branca, via www.pointclickhome.com

The look is dramatic, and can serve as a focal point, setting the tone of the room. Serving as both furniture and art, a Chinoiserie screen works beautifully in a traditional or contemporary setting. The practical side of the folding screen is not to be overlooked. Interior designers and home owners have used them to define and divide spaces, and to hide an array of necessary evils, from an unfortunately placed powder room door, to a messy pile of toys, to an undesirable view. All while adding miles of style, pattern and color!

By Michael S. Smith

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From the June House Beautiful, by Meg Braff. This small set can serve as wall art, or be used on a table top.

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English leather screens, via Decorati

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By Michael S. Smith

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An open kitchen is given privacy with a pair of decorative screens

The home chef is given the option of privacy in an open kitchen, using a pair of decorative screens.

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Decorative screens separated and installed as wall art.

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A great use of a Chinoiserie screen set in a beautiful room by Kim Alexandriuk

A matching pair of Chinoiserie sreens in a sitting room at the Kip's Bay Show House, design by Charlotte Moss.

DO-IT YOURSELF CHINOISERIE SCREEN PROJECT:

If you don’t have it in your budget to spend between $1,500.oo (for a new folding screen set from China) and… well the sky’s the limit for antique screens (depending on the age, condition and rarity) then you can do this project and get the Chinoise look, and practical function of a Chinoiserie folding screen set:

I would start by buying this unfinished screen set from ReadyToCover. They’ll make any size , shape and number of panels you desire. There are several top styles. I’m choosing the plain square top, to better mimic the look of an authentic Chinese screen.

Ready for paint and wallpaper, standing screens from ReadytoCover.com

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Then choose a gorgeous Chinoiserie wallpaper. I recommend painting the back and frame in a color that closely matches the background color of the wallpaper. Your paint store should be able to match the color very closely. Once you’ve wallpapered the main panels, add a coat of satin polyurethane for finish and protection.

Here are some of my favorite Chinoiserie wallpapers that would work very well for this, along with a few fabrics I picked to go with them:

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Wallpaper: (right )Thibaut, Meridian-red
Red satin: Robert Allen, Kazvin-scarlett
Stripe: Beacon Hill, Trilogy Stripe- capri
Skin print: Robert Allen, Baby Cheetah- mustard
Multi jacguard: Beacon Hill, Grainnes Charm- blue terra
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Wallpaper (right): Thibaut, Fishing Village-black
Rust textured wallpaper: Thibaut, Venetian Plaster, pumpkin
Green velvet: Kravet 23157-323
Black Leopard: Kravet 29437-616
Black damask: Beacon Hill, Jinan-noir

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Wallpaper (right): Thibaut, Cantonese-brown
Gold chennille: Kravet, 22404-16
Stripe: Beacon Hill, Coulthard-oro
Orange geometric: Highland Court, 180936H-35
Skin pattern:Beacon Hill, Cheetah Skin-praline

For pricing and availability on the various wallpapers and fabrics, call Gaita Interiors at (914)834-8282

AIN'T NOTHING LIKE THE REAL THING! Here are some authentic hand painted Chinese screens that are out there, new and antique.

Antique Fujin Screen Set from antiquesbyzaar.com , $2500.00

These two exquisite screen sets (above and below) are from Antiques by Zaar, an excellent dealer in Chinese antique decorative arts and furnishings. Their huge warehouse is in Highpoint, N.C., but the web site is wonderful too.

Antique Chinese Screens circa 1890 for antiquesbyzaar, $4675.00

Newly made hand painted from chinesefurnitureonline $1800.00

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Rare anitque pair of Chinoiserie Screen sets valued at about $60,000.00

Rare antique pair of Chinoiserie Screen sets from Evanandgerst.com valued at about $60,000.00

SO GO DECORATE!! and HAVE FUN!!

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June 18, 2009

Larchmont Has Art: Mini Art Scene in Lower Westchester

Filed under: Art and Culture, art hanging and installation. — Tags: abstract art, art auction, art framing, art galleries, Art scene, Larchmont, Lower Westchester, modern art, traditional art. painters — Leona Gaita @ 3:45 PM

Writing and researching for my last post, about ways to hang art, gave me the incentive to take a better look at my own little town in Lower Westchester, to see how the art scene is doing in Larchmont, NY. What I found surprised me in it’s wealth and diversity.

Where to Begin!
PALMER ART at 1985 Palmer Ave, Larchmont, New York 10538 (914-834-3627) represents abstract painter Anton. Here are some of his pieces showing now:

A wall full of art by Anton at Palmer Art

From Anton's web site.

Carlos, expert framer

Carlos Rodriguez is the owner-operator of Palmer art. I rely on his expertise and refined aesthetic when making framing decisions.

One more by Anton. I may find a home for this one...in MY home!

WENDY GEE! at 1949 Palmer Ave in Larchmont, New York (914-834-8507) has just added some whimsical and charming wall art to their collection of beautiful home furnishings. These are not one-of-a-kind pieces, but are very nicely printed on stretched canvas for a finished look.

Friendly Dog print on stretched canvas, in rustic frame

Taking pictures at Wendy Gee! is a pleasure. Wherever you point the camera, there’s something pretty! This a great spot for interior designers. You can furnish, accessorize and take care of wall art all in one spot.

A collection of decorative wall art in a fresh spring palette.

Must love dogs! Nicely framed prints

LARCHMONT ART at 1899 Palmer Ave, in Larchmont, New York (914-834-0288) represents local artists. Larchmont Art also does beautiful framing work. Here is a sample of the art of Marcia Korotkin:

Marcia Korotkin at Larchmont Art

Marcia Korotkin

Alexander Girshin is a local artist and art teacher. Here is an article about him from the Rye Record. These two striking examples of his photorealism style are now on view at Larchmont Art.

Girshin My Friend by Alexander Girshin

A piece by Alexander Girshin at Larchmont Art

KINESE BARNS FINE ART is an exquisite fine art gallery in Larchmont. They represent an array wonderful artists. Kinese Barnes is located at 1955 Palmer Ave. (914-834-8077) Here is a VERY small example of my favorite picks from this beautiful gallery.

Everybody Wong Chung'd That Night by Katarina Chung

Eyes on the Horizon by Cecile Chong

Echo Niner by David Collins

CLARKE AUCTION is an honest to goodness auction house hidden away in Larchmont. Clarke’s is at 20 North Ave, Larchmont (914-833-8336) They have monthly auctions of furniture, accessories and art, and twice yearly Art Only auctions. If you’ve never been to a live auction, you’re in for a thrill! Here are a few pieces that sold at their last Art Only auction. The variety of styles that come through is mind boggling! There’s something for everyone.

Something old...

Something new...

Something modern...

Something blue...

PAOLO CORVINO, an artist of international reputation has been creating art for over 50 years, and has his artist’s studio right at 1887 Palmer Ave. in Larchmont NY(914-833-1175) His work is expressionist, impressionist, conceptualist. The art speaks for itself.

Paolo Corvino First Night , Yankee Stadium at the Museum of the City of New York

Inside the Corvino art studio

ANNELLE GANDELMAN is a beautiful New York style art gallery at 1989 Palmer Ave (914-840-4151) Annelle Gandelman has rotating exhibits, so check out this stunning art photography by Geoffrey Baris before it’s leaves on July 8.

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LARCHMONT HAS ART!! So come and see. From New York City, it’s a 35 minute train ride from Grand Central to Larchmont. Take an art walk! If you’re coming, let me know. We’ll do art, we’ll do vintage, we’ll do lunch too!

HAVE FUN!

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June 11, 2009

Hanging Art: 3 Approaches Prefered by Interior Designers

Filed under: Color usage, Fabric Usage, Flowers, Gifts, Holidays, Larchmont, Paint, Wall Decoration, art hanging and installation. — Tags: art and mementos, art collage, art hung on bookcases, art installation, botanical prints, comfortable living room, contemporary painting, dining room chair slipcovers, elegant dining room, framed tiles, framed wallpaper, geometric art installation, glass art, hanging art, how to hang art, Large art, The Paris Hang, white slipcovers — Leona Gaita @ 12:18 PM

There are as many ways to hang and display art as there are artists and art lovers. But if we try, we can boil it down to 3 basic approaches, within which you can make your own rules.

1) NEAT and GEOMETRIC…the grid:

If you like your world visually neat and organized, this is your look.

In this case the vibrant energy of the strong color palette is kept in check by the geometric installation of the art.

Neat, but far from dull! The geometry is further strengthened by the symmetrical portraits on each side.

I couldn't resist adding this similar image of Matisse's Red Studio

Gilded botanicals are installed with precision, and add just the right touch in this year round sun room. (Gaita Interiors)

A grouping of small framed art can take the place of a single larger piece, as in these examples, above and below.

These pretty framed tiles from Linda Paul could fill a whole wall in a kitchen or casual dining room.

Framed tiles from www.lindapaul.com

Life is messy! It’s nice to come home to a crisp, clean look in your personal sanctuary. The art installations below certainly add to a sense of calm and tranquility.

A restful and elegant dining room.

White dining room from Better Homes and Gardens

A pretty bedroom in neutral tones. Very tranquil.

I love the calm, cool slate blue combined with a pop of bright red!

The key to this look is identical (or nearly so) frames. What’s inside the frames may be similar, related or vary wildly. It’s the frames that keep it together, and provide that clean, calm organized appearance. The only down side to this look is the installation. Precision is called for. If you’re going to do it yourself, here are some tips for getting it just right. You may consider hiring a pro for this. Many framers provide art hanging services. Or a good handy man/carpenter can do the job.

2) WILD ABANDON, or….more is more

It may be a lifetime’s collection of art and mementos, or just the result of a flea market spree… Or a little of both. There’s a fun free spirited trend toward wild, sprawling art installations for the home. Why interior designers love it? It gives the home instant and unique personality, the homeowner’s personality. You can finish a room in one big picture hanging marathon!

By Thomas Jayne via House Beautiful

Framed vintage wallpapers via Apartment Therapy

Artistic collection via Domino Magazine

A sprawling collage made of art. Very Bohemian.

Tiffany Blue walls make a great backdrop for black and white photos in a variety of black frames. (via Domino)

I like the way the art picks up the black and white checkerboard floor.

By Thomas Jayne via House Beautiful

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A comfy living room is personalized by a lifetime collection of art and mementos

I wouldn't call this sprawling. It's neatly organized, filling the space like wallpaper.

I wouldn't call this sprawling. It's neatly organized, filling every inch like wallpaper.

They could have just hung the orange painting over the sofa, but that wouldn't have been half as interesting.

3) ONE IMPORTANT STATEMENT PIECE

If you’re lucky enough to own art that’s big and “important”, you can use the time honored approach of letting that piece stand alone, or even lead the design decisions for a whole space. Interior designers LOVE IT when a home owner has big art! It makes the rest of our job so easy!

The rooms below all appear to have been inspired by the one major art piece present.

Looks like this beautiful painting was the inspiration for the rest of the room, with excellent results.

Every detail falls in line behind the stunning contemporary painting.

Here, even the almost-black wood floor follows suit.

The oversized art photography sets not only the color scheme but the entire theme of the room.

Expertly modulated greys pick up the shades in the art, without overpowering it.

Expertly modulated grays pick up the shades in the art, without overpowering it.

A pinch of white in teh bold painting is picked up in the chair's slipcovers.

A pinch of white in the bold painting is picked up in the chair's slipcovers.

SOME PEOPLE JUST REFUSE TO FIT IN!…the hybrids

Here are some beautiful examples of art installations that combine some or all of the above methods…or just do their own thing:

A statement piece, surrounded by small satelights, on a neutral backdrop.

A statement piece, surrounded by small satelites, on a neutral backdrop.

Soothing classic color scheme is enlivened

The color scheme in the furnishings and paint is laid back, the art pops, all to great effect.

Wall art isn’t necessarily flat! This traditional living room by Mary Anne Smiley Interiors with stunning multi dimensional glass art, combined with contemporary painting, defies categorization. I love that!!

Grid Interrupted: My favorite room at the Kip's Bay Showhouse by Bunny Williams.

Oops I forgot my art...very pretty!

A collection of various sizes is carefully arranged inside an imaginary box to create, in effect, a single piece. From Martha Stewart

This is known as The Paris Hang; almost sculptural.

Got art, but now walls? Here's a solution.

Got art, but no walls? Here's a solution.

Another one

Symetrical, but complex installation complimented by subtle paint and fabric selections.

Symmetrical, but complex installation, complimented by subtle paint and fabric selections.

Remember the most important things when you’re thinking about how to hang your art:

HAVE FUN and EXPRESS YOURSELF!

My friend Kelly from DesignTies suggested a style I missed: Art leaning on shelves. As she suggests, this gives you lots of flexibility. If you get bored, you can change things around, and never put a nail in the wall! I found this pretty image from DesignHoleOnLine.

A cozy niche with artistic flair.

From E Designs Custom Interiors

And this combo, hanging and leaning from E Designs Custom Interiors

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June 5, 2009

Larchmont-Mamaroneck is a Gold Mine for Vintage Lovers!

Filed under: Furniture, Gifts, Holidays, Larchmont, Westchester — Tags: antiques, auction, bargain, C&C Auction Gallery, Chatsworth Used Furniture, Furniture, Interior Design, Larchmont, lighting, Lower Westchester, Mamaroneck, New York area, New York City, vintage — Leona Gaita @ 12:16 PM

If you love VINTAGE GOODIES and BARGAINS, you need to visit my charming Town of Mamaroneck and it’s equally charming Village of Larchmont. We have some real treasure troves here, and all are in walking distance to each other, or to the Larchmont or Mamaroneck train stations. (about 35 minutes from Grand Central) Hey, NEW YORK INTERIOR DESIGNERS, GET OVER HERE!

Lumonosov China pattern Cobalt Net, part of the June 15 auction to take place at the C&C Auction Gallery in Larchmont.

This Lumonosov set is unbelievable! There are pieces of every description, napkin rings, soup tureens, coffee pot, tea pot etc, etc...It never ends!

Did you know we have our very own genuine auction house? C&C Auction Gallery, tucked away on North St in Larchmont, it’s an interior designer or collector’s HEAVEN! There are bargains galore on really beautiful pieces of every description, like this HUGE set of blue and white dishes to die for! If you’ve never participated in an auction, you’re in for a thrill. Over 150 pieces will be auctioned off at their upcoming event on June 15, 2009. Here are a few things that caught my eye:

OMG! The expected selling price for this classic piece is $300 to $500!!

A pretty collecton of teacups and saucers.

This exquisite etagere is expected to sell for $200 to $300!!

Here in Lower Westchester and the Mamaroneck-Larchmont area, Chatsworth Used Furniture has been a well known and loved staple for generations. It’s been owned and run by the Lightbody Family, since 1924. Mamaroneck just wouldn’t be Mamaroneck without it! There are 4 huge floors to explore, so give yourself plenty of time! I’ve spent many happy hours wandering their aisles. If you’re an interior designer, you could really get stuff done here! Vintage dining sets, china, lighting, bedroom pieces,upholstery,rugs, the works! If you’re a collector of Vintage, you’ll have a blast! Just remember they’re closed on Sunday and Monday, and check for their week off in August.

OK, I need the pair of flame stitch Bergere Chairs

Oh, where to begin! Dishes anyone?

I have just the spot for the blanket chest.

In Larchmont,( just a few steps from Larchmont train station), at Carol Charney, you’ll find a very different experience. In her polished and perfumed showroom, Charney’s vintage pieces are lovingly restored and displayed. Here’s a small sampling:

Vintage eye candy!

Vintage mirror, pristine, and ready to hang.

Designer’s Corner in Larchmont is another one of those fun places for exploring. You never know what you’ll find! For me, it’s THE place for vintage light fixtures. Other Larchmont-Mamaroneck spots have them, but Designer’s Corner has their own on site lighting restoration specialist. And the collection is expansive. Here’s a small colorful selection:
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