Vyna St Phard
- Cappelini, Charities, Christopher Reeves Foundation, Events, Knoll, Life and Style, Savoir Beds, Social Unit, Textiles, Vyna St Phard
Dream for the Sky
Peter Wilderotter, and Dorothy CosonasSO LUXE!“This project is personal. My 24 year old daughter became paralyzed suddenly from a rare auto immune disease,” says Dorothy Cosonas. “The Reeve Foundation is a place that creates hope — like birds, that hope can rise to the sky.”The veteran brand, Knoll Luxe Textile, recently collaborated with Savoir Beds in order to benefit the Christopher Reeve Foundation. My friend C. Jean and I went to the event last week, and we were both impressed with what we saw. The event was spearheaded by Dorothy Cosonas from Luxe Textile; and the bed in question: Dream for the Sky is made of 100% linen with design elements in viscose and an accent of Swarovski crystals – the aesthetics were simply très jolie.
Savoir Beds is currently offering these custom designed headboards in five of my favorite patterns from Knoll: Arabella, Sandis, Mepal, Gates, and Garden City. 100% of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Christopher Reeve Foundation, which is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury. Additionally, for one year, a percentage of the proceeds for the sale of the selected Savoir beds that are upholstered with the above-mentioned fabrics from Knoll Luxe, will also go to the Foundation.
Custom Savoir Bed upholstered with a Knoll Luxe Linen FabricThe ‘Dream for the Sky‘ bed is being auctioned by CharityBuzz.com for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation 100% of the proceeds will go towards the foundationPhoto credit: Knoll TextilesCAPPELLINI
That same evening, a few blocks down, in the same artsy neighborhood of Soho, the folks at Cappellini were celebrating a project which involved a couple of cool designers from Amsterdam…
Social-Unit: The plastic bed is made from consumer waste plastic in Amsterdam’s sheltered workshops
The evening was fueled with some pretty acrobatic entertainment
The Social-Unit Team and Designers (Far left: Wouter and Corinne – far right)
Checking out the goods: Left: Yours truly. Right: Christ Jean-PallingPhoto courtesy Social-UnitThe Social-Unit is a luxurious residential bed, complete with ample storage, a vanity table, a desk and electrical outlets and lighting. It is specifically crafted to create a cozy ‘sheltered island’ space, in the middle of a large open plan living area. This sustainable bed is from a project that was part of a larger initiative – One Hundred Days – an international art competition launched by Contaminate NYC back in 2011. Contaminate is a social and cultural platform for art immerse experiences and – given its social entrepreneurial roots – decided to challenge artists to produce projects combining art and sustainability issues. Wouter and Corinne’s Social-Unit is the third and final show of the series dedicated to the winners of One Hundred Days. The Social Unit is available at t the Cappellini Showroom in Soho. -
Organic Cleansing
As an interior designer, I get to enter a lot of people’s homes. And sometimes I’m a little surprised by what my clients’ previous decoration reveals about themselves. But oftentimes, I’m even more amazed how little they know about the history of their homes. How well do you know your house? You may find this a little trivial, but did you know that about two hundred years ago, bathrooms didn’t exist? The bathroom’s development has not been a straightforward one. In fact, the Tudor people had even more terrible hygiene than their medieval ancestors. The subject of bathroom is coming up on this post because that’s my current task. I am now in the process of renovating a bathroom that haven’t been touched since the 1960s.I’ve set my sights on the natural shapes of Laufen’s bathroom designs. They’re beautiful, and well suited for my client’s sensibility for a modern bathroom space. We’ve chosen their Palomba collection of bathroom fixtures which are characterized by natural and organic shapes. Whenever possible, I like to use organic design, or organic-inspired design as a smarter way to decorate a home. The smooth feel of their bathtubs is unique, in the sense that it feels like constant moving water. Palomba is complete for a perfect home spa, comprised of eight washbasins and a series of accessories, that allow me to get completely creative!
Laufen – Palomba Bathroom fixturesThe high back of the Palomba bathtub supports the body for a long relaxing soak. The collection can be found on their official website at www.Laufen.com.
NOTE: Please notify us directly, if you believe that certain images on this post are alleged to infringe upon the copyrights of others, according to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Thank you. -
A Million Thanks!
Today we’ve reached the first stage of our journey by achieving our 1 Million Page Views. This only happen because of all of our visitors, subscribers, advertisers, sponsors, collaborators, and contributors. They’ve all made High End Weekly™ what it is today – a Luxury Lifestyle Source. During our 1st year on the job, we’ve become a valuable source for Art, Design, Fashion, and all the intricate subjects in between which make up the essence of the good life. Thank you for your continued support, and for being part of a blog that is growing, and will continue to evolve to its highest potential.NOTE: Please notify us directly, if you believe that certain images on this post are alleged to infringe upon the copyrights of others, according to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Thank you.You May Also Like
Happy Anniversary High End Weekly™
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Here We Go
It gives me great pleasure to share this celebration with all of my old and new friends, our sponsors: Holly at Subarashi Kudamono for the delicious cocktails, Dolores Marianeschi for the Nieto wine, Erik and Cornelia for allowing me to use their beautiful, zen-like gallery. NTDTV for their great coverage, and last but not least, my better half, Michael. During High End Weekly’s first year, I have had so many stories and experiences to tell, so when I look back, there have been a few tears and laughs, a little of expert advice, and friendly conversations.
All of you have added to my dream and in some cases, you’ve challenged me to keep reaching out towards my goal, and to iron out some wrinkles. It’s been a fantastic journey. In the coming years, we will continue to push the boundaries, never get comfortable at our achievements, we aim to dazzle, to defy expectations, we want our readers to reach for the stars, and share the pleasures both great and small. High End Weekly™ will be arranging events, regular High Teas, so that we can meet with new and old friends. We will bring you the best of life and culture, the luxury lifestyle, which includes fine and decorative arts, interior design, fashion, and of course a few surprises.
Vyna St Phard
Photos courtesy High End Weekly™All rights reserved -
The Weekender: Place Des Vosges, Paris
Each day I’m getting more and more excited about my trip to Paris, and the pleasure I get in planning it. I can’t seem to stop talking about what I often like to call, “my spiritual home.” Paris is beautiful all year around, but in the fall it’s a bit more special for me. It’s a time of rebirth, sort to speak, when Parisians are returning back to the city after spending their summers in the country or elsewhere.
photo via Pictures for Walls
Place des VosgesWe all know how hard it is to find some of the shops opened during the summer holidays, so it’s a delight to see everyone back doing business when autumn comes. In a few months, the long awaited Biennale des Antiquares will open its doors at the Grand Palais on Friday, September 14 through the 23rd, and Maison Object is a week before.
Place Des Vosges, circa 1830
Place des Vosges
Fountain view of Place Des Vosges, photo via World Is Round
Place Des VosgesPhoto credit: Flickriver
Place Des Vosges, architectural detailsPhoto credit: Flickriver
One of the four arches of Place Des Vosges, photo via Simonbuc
Place des Vosges
Photo credit Regis Pettinari ©
Watercolor painting of the fountain at Place Des Vosges, photo credit Regis Pettinari ©
Afternoon repose, watercolor (with fountain in the background), Place Des Vosges, photo credit Gerard Hauet ©.jpg?w=960)
Place des Vosges
Vyna St Phard, Place des Vosges, Paris, circa 2007Photo courtesy: High End Weekly™This is an ideal time to be in Paris to source out various fine and decorative arts for my clients. But flying across the pond also means that I’ll get to stay at Place des Vosges. There really isn’t any other square in the world like it. And that’s not a gross exaggeration.This specific charming square is right in the heart of the Marais. Place des vosges is a large quadrangle surrounded by 39 houses built on a uniform plan with brick, stone, and stucco facades. Arcade ground floors and simple dormers. The trees that I’ve come to love over the years, were not planted in the central gardens until 1783. And as beautiful as they are, they did in my view damaged the overall symmetry of the square. Another interesting fact about Place des Vosges is that it acquired its present name in 1799, after the department of the Vosges was first to discharge its liabilities for the Revolutionary Wars. Who would of thought?NOTE: Please notify us directly, if you believe that certain images on this post are alleged to infringe upon the copyrights of others, according to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Thank you.
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Kelly Wearstler on Five
The grande dame of west coast interior design, Kelly Wearstler has now extended her empire to fashion. The tastemaker opened her design boutique at the legendary Bergdorf Goodman in the Fall of 2007 to thousands of adoring fans, and discriminating retail shoppers. Now she’s following up on the evolution of her brand with a refined, elegant, and low-key ready-to-wear line on 5F. Her clothing collection and accessories are moderately high-end, and perfect for the young, modern social climber who’s looking for that extra edge without being too garish about it. Kelly Wearstler, an award-winning interior designer, is not only highly regarded among her peers, but she is also widely recognized in the press.Wearstler was named one of the style leaders in 2010 by Town & Country; honored as one of House Beautiful’s best designers; recognized for her interior design work by Bon Appetit; dubbed one of the design world’s top tastemakers by House & Garden; named one of the elite “Design 100” by Time Style & Design; and designated as one of the top 25 trendsetters of the year by Modern Bride.
The Ready-to-Wear and accessories linesBergdorf Goodman, 5F
Craig Warfield, Vyna, and Kelly Wearstlerphoto by High End Weekly™ -
Christie’s Interiors Sale
Low-key elegance ruled at Christie’s Interiors SaleIn case you missed this month’s Christie’s Interiors Sale, I encourage you to keep their next one in mind, by visiting their website’s calendar. It was the kind of sale that was right for just about anyone’s budget, and this year, like the preceding ones before it, didn’t disappoint.A pair of massive bone-inlaid oak vitrine cabinets Mid 20th CenturyDuring the three day sale, the gavel went down on several items for as low as $65! Now that’s what I call Recession Art. Darling, don’t we just love a bargain?
Although I personally didn’t buy a single item for myself during the July sale, I did familiarize myself with what was “on the menu” by rummaging through the pages of their catalogue, while I was traveling, a few weeks back. Two words stuck out on my mind, when I thought about writing this post – Easy Elegance. These pieces are perfect for the young art collector, or the individual with a secondary home in the country. The bone-inlaid oak vitrine above is massive, yes, but it can be a good fit for a big or moderately sized room, providing that it remains the leading presence.
Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946)SuitorEnough spark to light a fire! This piece from Arnoldi is a great conversation piece, and adds just the right amount of color for a muted interior or a space that is in desperate need for some ambiance.
A sepik river mask from Papua New GuineaComing across the unexpected in any interior can be refreshing. I truly like the sense of whimsy, the geometric shapes and natural colors of this mask. I must admit that I envy the one who got away with it!
Claire Falkenstein (AMERICAN, 1908-1998)Centrifugal IIII love art which carries a sense of movement. This shadow box from Falkenstein is a good beginning for those who are looking to start collecting some of her work.
A gilt-brass and textured brown leather circular coffee table,
by William (Billy) Haines, Mid circa 1950
There was a fair amount of furniture from legendary Hollywood designer, William Haines, at the Interiors Sale, this year. So if you were able to snag a couple of his works, more power to you. I found this coffee table to be extremely sexy. With its gilt-brass geometric shaped legs, it fits right at home in the country or the city. And what’s more, it’s small enough to move around , when the occasion calls for it.A set of six bronze, copper and gilt metal circular ashtrays,
by William (Billy) Haines and Michael Morrison, circa 1050
Rustic chic! Instead of using these as ashtrays, I would have them around as serving trays when entertaining guests, or simply use them in the bathroom as soap dishes.
A red lacquered two tiered side table,
by William (Billy) Haines, circa 1950
There’s a primitive look to this table which is right for just about any type of interiors. A little red is just the right amount of color to accentuate any space. Plus it’s small enough to use as a bench when you’re in a pinch.
A pair of French oak and rush low chairs, Mid 20th Century
This pair brings to mind a “Provencal” setting. Giving the simplicity of its clean lines, the silhouette is quite alluring and believe it or not, they’re very comfortable (I sat on those myself during the viewing).
A set of three French oak stools,
late 19th/Early 20th CenturyThese circular top antique French stools could be quite useful in a library, don’t you think? Whenever I buy a table or a chair, I always look at its legs since that usually determine the common thread I’m seeking for the project. With their modern sensibilities and Eastern adaptations, these stools are a crowd pleaser.
A French oak curved bench, attributed to Guillerme et Chambron, Mid 20th CenturyI can easily picture this bench with one of Ralph Lauren’s “summer house” colors which he currently carries. Either the bright orange, or the sultry yellow fabric will do. Yes, even William Morris would of been proud of this piece.NOTE: Please notify us directly, if you believe that certain images on this post are alleged to infringe upon the copyrights of others, according to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Thank you. -
Interior Lighting For The Home
“Always try to use natural light as the great enhancement. There is nothing like it.”
Benjamin Noriega-OrtizLast Monday evening, the New York IIDA Committee, designing students and guests, along with several distinguished designers, gathered together at the swanky Swarovski Crystalized Concept Store in Soho to talk about something that effect us all – Interior Lighting.
Art + Design in Neighborhoods was to be discussed that evening. Lighting is an integral part of our everyday lives, yet some of us have chosen to live with bad lighting, and not demand the best. I remembered a scene from British comedy Absolutely Fabulous when upon arriving at Edina’s house, Patsy asked “What’s going on here? Is it the lighting, or am I badly lit?” A little British humor, yes, but considering that great lighting is within our reach, and can be achieved through careful selected interior colors, furniture, and textile, there really is no excuse for anything less. Celebrity interior designer and architect, Mr. Benjamin Ortiz talked about how he focuses on metals, whimsical lighting, and color, when he designs for himself and his clients.
Indeed, color is important because it creates sensation, and that is crucial in any room. Did you know that great lighting in any room can be achieve by simply highlighting a reflective ceiling light? Product designer, Jason Miller, uses his lighting creations to define a space. His current collection is divine and have several cultural references which make them even more alluring. It was so interesting to learn how Mr. Ivan Navarro, uses the purity of florescent light bulbs in his work to highlight social and political factors that inherently lie within formal composition. Through the eyes of each of these designers, it became plain to see how each of us can take minimal or significant steps in order to live with the benefits of exceptional lighting. The benefits are not just about the aesthetics, but purely therapeutic.
From left: Moderator Ms. Julie Taraska, senior editor of Gilt Home at Gilt Groupe, lighting artist, Mr. Ivan Navarro, Mr. Benjamin Noriega Ortiz principal of BNO Design, Mr. Jason Miller of Miller Studio,Mr. Hans Galutera of BG Studio,and Ms. Debra Gerstenfeld from Wolf Gordon
VSP, Ms. Janet Valenza from Closet Revolution, and Mr. Benjamin N. OrtizEnlighten conversations, and great ambiance all around.
