An Elegant 1930s Long Island, New York Home

One of my favorite things about Instagram is the wonderfully talented and like-minded people you meet. I have always enjoyed following Meg McCartney of Long Island, New York, and I particularly love the glimpses she posts of her beautiful home. So I was thrilled when she agreed to a home tour! Built in 1936, Meg has lived in this beautiful home – which she decorated herself – with her family for 14 years. We share a love of traditional decor, chintz, entertaining, and all things Herend. Please allow me to introduce you to Meg…

Q: Your home is so beautiful, and I am so impressed that you designed it yourself! When did you become interested interior design, and how did you learn how to decorate?

A: I have always had a love of decorating since I was a little girl. I adored playing with Barbie dolls and would use anything and everything from my childhood home, including the Waterford bowls as Jacuzzis… the sky was the limit and I would spend hours decorating the perfect Barbie dream home. I learned to decorate by watching my mother, she has always been an inspiration. Our holidays and any cause for celebration brings creativity and elaborate decorations. My mother makes everyone feel special with all of the extra touches. Whatever the occasion, she really has a knack and I have followed suit, it is pure passion for me as well. I take pride and pleasure in making our home and our guests always feel welcomed by going the extra mile.

Q: How do you describe your design aesthetic?

A: My design aesthetic is traditional, but with a modern twist here and there.

Q: Who are your favorite interior designers?

A: My favorite interior designers are Mary McDonald, Ralph Lauren, and Mario Buatta to name just a few.

Q: What are your greatest sources of inspiration?

A: My greatest source of inspiration is of course Instagram and the many innovative creative and talented people who post each day. I’m inspired by Palm Beach decor and the relaxed yet elegant way of living. The decor, fashion, and aesthetic is one I’ve always gravitated towards. I have also been inspired by Old Westbury Gardens, where I have been going since I was a young child, Long Island’s North Shore, also known as the Gold Coast, has exquisite old world charm and pristine architecture at almost every turn. I also love visiting Bailey Arboretum and The Planting Fields Arboretum which always offer intricate architecture and spectacularly maintained gardens. It’s wonderful to see these old buildings and structures maintained.

Q: Do you have any favorite pieces of furniture, fabrics, or accessories? Please tell me about your amazing collections!

A: I have collected Herend for about 20 years. I have always adored all the precious animals.. I just can’t resist their little faces.

Q: You mentioned that you are going to be refreshing your home soon… what changes are on the horizon?

A: I’m thinking of freshening up with some new wallpaper with one of Gracie’s spectacular floral patterns and changing up our staircase with a sisal runner.

Q: What are your favorite hobbies outside of decorating?

A: I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, long walks on the beach, and volunteering. But most of all, spending time with my husband and daughter.

Thank you, Meg, for letting us tour your gorgeous home! You have done such an amazing job!! Click here to follow Meg on Instagram as she continues to share sneak peeks inside her home, along with highlights from her fabulous parties and wardrobe.

Comments

Cynthia Lambert says
October 10, 2016 at 1:19 pm

How lovely! I agree that the staircase would be improved with a runner, but that wallpaper is to die for. The obelisks on the dining table are a good touch, and that herringbone brick terrace is splendid. Makes me smile to see a house like that. It all says 'love.'

Sandy at You May Be Wandering says
October 10, 2016 at 6:10 pm

What a lovely home!!! As a fellow Herend collector, I love seeing how others display their pieces. And, the collection of Hermes boxes – SO fun! Thanks for sharing, Andrea – I hope you have a great week! xoxo

designchic says
October 11, 2016 at 12:44 am

So gorgeous and fun to get a peek into such an amazing home…love! Happy Monday!

The enchanted home says
October 11, 2016 at 11:28 am

Love Meg, she is such a lovely and elegant person and her home reflects this beautifully…it is full of love and passion. A girl after my own heart:)
I agree Andrea, Instagram is pretty amazing (and all of social media actually) in how it connects people from all over who might not ever meet! Thanks for taking us in her beautiful home.

Pookha says
October 15, 2016 at 12:47 pm

Such a nice house. Thanks for sharing.

I particularly like the black and white and red room. Super mirror.