After a three-year sabbatical in Marcel Breuer’s Brutalist jewel on Madison Avenue, The Frick Collection has triumphantly returned to its Gilded Age mansion on East 70th Street. And what a homecoming it is. On April 17th, the museum reopened its storied Fifth Avenue doors following a sweeping restoration, and we could hardly wait to step inside. Today, we’re giving you an exclusive first look at the Frick’s breathtaking revival.
East 70th Street Entrance, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas VeneziaEntrance Hall, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas VeneziaGarden Court, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.
The $330 million renovation, helmed by Selldorf Architects with Beyer Blinder Belle as executive architect, is the first comprehensive upgrade to the museum since its debut as a public institution in 1935. But make no mistake, this isn’t a tale of dramatic reinvention. It’s a story of thoughtful renewal and historic preservation.
Originally built in 1914 for steel magnate Henry Clay Frick, the Beaux-Arts mansion has always blurred the line between private home and public museum. Frick intended it as both: a palatial residence filled with Gainsboroughs, Vermeers, and Bellinis, and a future cultural gift to the city. Since opening to the public in 1935, it has become a rarefied refuge for New Yorkers.
Grand Staircase, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Second-floor Landing, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.South Hall, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.
Step inside, and the familiar grandeur of the museum comes flooding back. The Garden Court still hums with its fountain, now under a fresh canopy of daylight. The halls that have seen many a glamorous ball have returned in all their hushed splendor. Each detail is precisely as remembered, yet somehow more alive.
But upstairs is where the real surprise awaits. For the first time in its nearly century-long history, the Frick has opened the second floor of the mansion to the public. Once the family’s private quarters, these ten new galleries now brim with decorative arts, portrait medals, Meissen porcelain, and more. Each room has been exquisitely restored with a reverence for its original splendor. The elaborate woodwork, marble fireplaces, and ceiling murals have been brought gently back to life.
Boucher Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Medals Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Ceramics Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Walnut Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.
Adelaide Frick’s sitting room now houses the beloved Boucher Room. Henry Clay’s bedroom is filled with portraiture, his favored genre. Helen Clay Frick’s room sparkles with Renaissance gold-ground panels, a tribute to her role in shaping the collection. These upstairs rooms bring the museum closer to its domestic origins while offering new ways to enjoy the art.
The first-floor galleries remain as elegant as ever. The Oval Room, the Fragonard Room, and the Living Hall have all been restored with an artisan’s hand. Silk wall coverings have been recreated by the same textile houses that supplied the Frick family over a century ago. Bronze fixtures gleam once more, wood carvings have been treated, and lighting has been improved to let each masterwork shine in its best light.
Fragonard Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Portico Gallery, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Living Hall, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.West Gallery, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.
A new café, a beautifully restored Russell Page garden, and updated circulation paths make the museum more usable without ever compromising its grace. Even the lampshades were hand-stitched. It’s that kind of restoration.
To mark the reopening, the Frick has planned a season of thoughtful programming. Sculptor Vladimir Kanevsky was commissioned to create delicate porcelain florals, placed throughout the galleries in homage to the fresh blooms that once graced the museum at its original opening in 1935. A spring music festival will inaugurate the new 218-seat Stephen A. Schwarzman Auditorium, and in June, the museum’s first-floor exhibition galleries will debut with Vermeer’s Love Letters, a trio of paintings united for the first time to explore the Dutch master’s fascination with correspondence and intimacy.
Oval Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Frick Art Research Library Reading Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Joseph Coscia Jr.Paper Conservation Room, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas VeneziaStephen A. Schwarzman Auditorium, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas Venezia
There are bigger museums, splashier exhibitions, and louder headlines, but none quite like the Frick. It remains a place where beauty whispers, not shouts. Where you can stand alone with a Vermeer or linger under a palm in the Garden Court and feel time like you have stepped back in time. Where elegance and scholarship are given equal weight, and every detail from the silk tassel to the parquet floor has a story to tell.
View from 70th Street Garden Looking West to Reception Hall, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas VeneziaEast 70th Street Facade, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas VeneziaFifth Avenue Facade, The Frick Collection, New York, Photographed by Nicholas Venezia
In its restoration, the Frick hasn’t reinvented itself. It has simply reaffirmed everything we loved about it. The Frick is back!
For more information and tickets, visit The Frick Collection online here.
Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Mark D. Sikes x Pottery Barn, the Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens Tennis Hut, and the Chelsea Flower Show. Written by Natalie Aldridge.
Mark D. Sikes x Pottery Barn
Just in time for summer, Mark D. Sikes has unveiled his debut collection with Pottery Barn, and it’s every bit the breezy, blue-and-white fantasy we’d hoped for, reimagined with a fresh dose of California cool.
Inspired by his new Ojai retreat, Orange Hill Farm, the 85-piece collection is a sun-drenched blend of all-American charm and easy elegance. There are scalloped sheets, embroidered lilac linens, striped dinnerware, and peel-and-stick wallpapers that feel like a love letter to the citrus grove. It’s joyful, nostalgic, and designed to slip right into your home as if it’s always been there, whether you’re outfitting a Hamptons guest room or giving your breakfast nook a seasonal lift.
The palette draws from Mark’s greatest hits: timeless blues, soft lavenders, and zesty bursts of orange. And of course, there are stripes. Not just any stripes, but the sort that evoke Slim Aarons lounging poolside or a crisply dressed cabana in Newport. Effortless, elegant and unmistakably Mark D. Sikes, the collection brings polish and charm to everything from table linens to bedding. Explore the full collection here!
When we first covered the 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens, there was one space that sparked our collective imagination—the elusive tennis hut, promised but not yet pictured. We waited patiently, and at long last, the photos have arrived. And let’s just say, they were worth the wait.
Photographed by Heather TalbertPhotographed by Heather Talbert
Designer Rosemary Wormley of Ash Street Interiors has volleyed tradition to the sidelines with her reimagining of the tennis court and hut, transforming the humble sporting enclave into a chic social retreat. Equal parts clubhouse and cocktail lounge, the 100-square-foot jewel box is now a stylish outpost for post-match martinis, light entertaining, and leisurely spectating.
Photographed by Heather TalbertPhotographed by Heather Talbert
At the heart of the space is a bespoke fluted bar by Rohan Ward Designs, framed by walk-up windows and perched bar stools dressed in a punchy Mary McDonald for Schumacher fabric. Painted ceramic tiles from Mirth Studio ground the space with playful elegance, while antique bar shelving and a custom “Tennis Goodies” painting by Suzy Lindow lend it a sense of layered charm. Gesso linen wallpaper, lattice trim, and vintage lighting sourced from 1stDibs complete the transformation with a wink to tradition and a nod to timeless good taste.
Photographed by Heather TalbertPhotographed by Heather Talbert
Outside, the mood is equally refined yet relaxed. Courtside benches by Sunset West Furniture and fringed umbrellas by Business & Pleasure offer flexible seating that can be easily rearranged for an impromptu happy hour. The pièce de résistance? A custom tented cabana styled like a chic outdoor salon, with Schumacher’s Augustine Ikat fabric upholstering Caneline lounge chairs. Rattan hurricanes, scalloped lanterns, and a raffia fringe mirror complete the vignette—a dreamy spot to sip a honey deuce in the shade.
It’s country club spirit reimagined, with every detail rallying in favor of gracious living. Game, set, match.
The Chelsea Flower Show
The 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show is in full bloom, and as always, it’s more than just a garden show. It’s a spectacle of style, innovation, and horticultural fantasy. Held this week on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the event is serving up lush inspiration for garden lovers and design devotees.
Each spring, the Chelsea Flower Show transforms the historic grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea into a living canvas of botanical imagination. Since its debut in 1913, the show has set the gold standard for garden design, where heritage meets horticultural fantasy in the most stylish of ways.
This year’s gardens are a study in contrasts. Some lean romantic and rambling, others architectural and restrained, but all are rooted in a devotion to beauty. Stone paths wind through perfectly, canopies frame borrowed views, and every planting feels intentional yet effortless. It’s garden design elevated to an art form, and a reminder that outdoor spaces can be just as expressive as the rooms we live in.
One of the most talked-about unveilings this year is The King’s Rose, a new fuchsia and white striped variety launched in honor of King Charles, with proceeds supporting the King’s Foundation. It’s regal, romantic, and already a garden must-have.
Whether you’re redesigning a terrace, dreaming up a garden folly, or simply there to admire, make sure to stop by the Chelsea Flower Show before it closes on the 24th! Tickets can be purchased here.
Designer Susanna Maggard is an expert in blending modern and classic design to create beautiful and inviting interiors. Based in New York, nothing pleases her more than to hear clients say, “We love spending time in these rooms!” Today Susie invites The Glam Pad for peek inside the recent complete restoration of her own Upper East Side prewar apartment.
Located in Manhattan’s Carnegie Hill neighborhood, this one-bedroom apartment boasts a prime location, ideally positioned within the Museum Mile across from the Met and Central Park. Susie wanted to maximize all 650 square feet, creating a unique jewel box that embraced its prewar charm yet is perfectly suited for modern living, working, and entertaining.
The slipper chair was in Susie’s bedroom growing up, and the French chair is from Newel… her first grown up purchase. A pair of mirrors above skirted tables (Groves Brothers) were Susie’s parents that she had painted by Osmundo.
Susie combined her passion for mixing objects from the past with conveniences of the present, including restored treasures from her parents’ estates and paintings by her sister, father, and father-in-law, all of whom were gifted watercolorists.
Other touches include dog-friendly flooring that is practical, yet beautiful, and several cost-effective techniques such as lacquered-look walls, painted floors, and more.
Susie shares a lesson she learned from the project, “I thought this tiny space would be a breeze… Not! I am grateful for Emilie Price, an old friend and colleague from David Easton (we were hired on the SAME day in 1998) who helped with design decisions that I thought would be easy. The project has given me a deeper appreciation for the great responsibility of giving your best work to your client—a client who in this case happened to be me. It’s easier to do great work for someone else than it is for yourself!”
The photograph above the fireplace is by Dale Goffigan. The living room rug is indoor/outdoor, and similar needlepoint pillows can be found here.Living Room walls & ceiling are Fine Paints of Europe in their high gloss finish.
Foyer wallpaper is Cole & Sons.Kitchen cabinets are Fine Paints of Europe in their high gloss finish. The kitchen shade fabric is from Schumacher
Susie was also able to create a compact office space with many creative storage options. “I hired a professional organizer that used every inch of the apartment,” she said. “I even have a place for my hoarded incandescent lightbulbs!”
Office wallpaper is from Twigs.
The bedroom fabric is Bennison, bedside table and lamps are from Pottery Barn, custom lampshades from Illume.
The mirrored chest of drawers is from Wayfair. And the floors in the bedroom are painted… all dachshund friendly!
Before starting her own firm, Susie received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the New York School of Interior Design and gained valuable experience from several leading interior designers, including David Easton, Alexa Hampton, Charlotte Moss and Bunny Williams. She is the founder of Susanna Maggard Interiors and member of The Decorators Club, which is an organization of 125 professional women, supporting interior design education in NYC. Founded in 1914, The Decorators Club fosters dialogue and encourages camaraderie among those who work competitively.
Susie’s projects include a complete renovation of an apartment in The Plaza, several NYC apartments, as well as houses in New Jersey, Palm Beach, Vermont, Washington, DC and Watermill, NY. You can learn more at Susanna Maggard Interiors an by following @susannamaggardinteriors on Instagram.
Thank you, Susie, for sharing your home with us today!
Gil Schafer, one of the world’s leading architects, is renowned for designing new “old” homes that not only meet modern needs, but also capture the elegance, charm, and sense of place typically only found only in historic homes. For the last three decades, Schafer’s work has embodied the very best in classical design and architectural timelessness while remaining adaptive to the ever-changing ebb and flow of life.
Perhaps the most perfect example of Schafer’s work can be found in his very own home, Middlefield, an iconic country estate set on 45 acres in the scenic Hudson Valley, which is being offered for sale for the first time in its history. Conceived as a place where history and modern living seamlessly intertwine, Middlefield embodies the warmth and character of traditional American architecture while offering all the comforts expected of a 21st-century retreat.
Take a virtual home tour of Middlefield with Quintessence here!
Approached by a winding drive lined with old-growth trees and native plantings, the house is perfectly situated to take advantage of both its privacy and its connection to the surrounding landscape. Built in 1999, the Greek Revival home features a classical double height portico that exudes an understated elegance. Symmetrical facade, gracious proportions, and handcrafted details nod to the region’s rich architectural heritage.
Let’s explore Middlefield with listing images courtesy of Compass!
With interiors by the legendary Miles Redd, every room is designed to feel both grand and intimate. A center hall leads to beautifully scaled double parlor living and dining spaces. Each of which is filled with soft natural light and thoughtfully framed views of the surrounding garden and woodlands. A generous three season porch is set off the main living spaces and takes full advantage of the western sunsets and summer breeze. Reclaimed antique wide-plank floors, custom-made door hardware and millwork, and antique mantels create a sense of timelessness, while carefully selected finishes and a restrained palette lend an air of relaxed sophistication. The kitchen, designed as the heart of the home, balances utility and beauty with custom cabinetry, a large wood burning fireplace, and a charming yet functional butler’s pantry.
Upstairs, three generously sized bedrooms offer a sanctuary of calm, with the primary suite enjoying a view overlooking the rolling hills. Three upstairs baths are outfitted with classic fixtures and honed marble, recalling the quiet luxury of historic country homes.
A third-floor media room and studio provide a quiet getaway for one to relax or work while taking advantage of the views from the dramatic fan light windows.
The landscape, designed by Deborah Nevins, is as carefully considered as the architecture. A series of garden rooms using walls, Hornbeam, Yew, and Boxwood hedges, trees, and lawn terraces mediate between the architecture of the residence and the land. Meanwhile, the kitchen garden and stone terrace overlooking hand-laid stone walls and clipped hedges offer the perfect setting for outdoor dining.
Middlefield is a house meant to be lived in, where every detail tells a story, and every space invites you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of place. A rare opportunity to own a home that is both deeply rooted in tradition and effortlessly suited to modern life in one of the most sought-after corners of the Hudson Valley.
Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Birdie Fortescue x Butter Wakefield, The Wentworth Woodhouse Working Party, and Salvesen Graham Comes to America. Written by Natalie Aldridge.
Birdie Fortescue x Butter Wakefield
When two doyennes of British taste come together, the results are bound to be enchanting. Birdie Fortescue, known for her quietly elegant interiors and globally inspired homewares, and Butter Wakefield, the celebrated garden designer with a penchant for joyful planting and dreaming composition, have joined forces for a collaboration that screams spring.
Launched in celebration of the 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the Nasturtium Collection is a charming ode to the garden with beautiful embroidery, beautiful tones, and sumptuous textures. Think scalloped linens stitched with trailing blooms, cushions that capture the carefree spirit of cottage gardens, and tableware ready for outdoor luncheons beneath a wisteria-draped pergola.
Birdie Fortescue’s eye for craftsmanship and subtle pattern finds perfect harmony with Butter Wakefield’s floral exuberance, creating a collection that feels both timeless and vibrant.Botanical without being fussy, it’s the sort of collaboration that makes simple moments all the more beautiful.
Whether you’re dressing your table for summer or simply craving a touch of botanical charm indoors, Birdie Fortescue x Butter Wakefield is a delightful bouquet of homeware treasures that we are loving! Explore the full collection here.
The Wentworth Woodhouse Working Party
This June, The Glam Pad is spotlighting a particularly charming (and delightfully muddy) affair for admirers of historic homes. The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings invites design enthusiasts and heritage devotees alike to roll up their sleeves and take part in its Wentworth Woodhouse Working Party, an immersive conservation experience set against the majestic backdrop of one of Britain’s largest Georgian country houses, nestled in the heart of South Yorkshire.
Image Courtesy of Wentworth Woodhouse
From June 5th to 10th, participants will have the rare chance to live and work on-site at this architectural colossus, learning traditional building crafts like lime plastering, sash window repair, gauged brickwork, and even lime burning via portable kiln. It’s a proper masterclass in preservation, all taught by expert artisans and surrounded by rolling countryside hills and Palladian splendor.
A 19th-century engraving of Wentworth Woodhouse from Morris’s Picturesque Views of Seats of the Noblemen and Gentlemen of Great Britain and Ireland (1866)
Whether you’re a conservation novice or seasoned pro, the week is a hands-on immersion into the world of heritage restoration, with time in the evenings for pub visits, fireside chats, and the kind of camaraderie only a bit of manual labor can build. Camping is encouraged (yes, tents and all), though nearby B&Bs offer a gentler landing for those who prefer their creature comforts like us.
We love an event that combines elegance and elbow grease, and this one is a true bucket-list experience for any old-house enthusiast. For more details or to register, visit the event’s official page here.
Salvesen Graham Comes to America
This May, one of The Glam Pad’s favorite design firms, Salvesen Graham, is heading across the pond for a series of events celebrating their debut book, A New English Style. Known for their perfectly balanced interiors where historic detail meets contemporary comfort, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen are masters of what they call “Future Heritage,” and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome them to the States.
The festivities begin on Tuesday, May 20th at The Design Social Pop-Up in Darien, Connecticut. There, attendees will have the chance to hear the duo in conversation with Veranda’s Ellen McGauley and explore their fabric line, The Collection by Salvesen Graham, a refined and joyful celebration of traditional English motifs reimagined in fresh, livable palettes.
On Thursday, May 22, they’ll be stopping into Sister Parish Design’s charming Litchfield shop for a book signing and a moment to toast two brands who share a deep love for timeless, character-filled interiors.
Later that same day, the team will head to the iconic Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut for a panel discussion and book signing hosted by Frederic’s Emma Bazilian. Joining them will be stylist Mieke ten Have and designer Meta Coleman for a conversation on why English style continues to captivate across generations and geographies. It is a celebration of design, heritage, and a fresh take on classic interiors!
For Lindsey Abernathy — antique dealer, designer, and founder of the Rose Covered Cottage shop — life is about seeing the world through rose colored glasses. Lindsey has loved collecting antiques since she and her husband bought their first cottage as newlyweds over 20 years ago. It was just 1,000 square feet, and over time she added crystal chandeliers, a few chippy pieces, and made it a cozy home they loved.
“I believe home is so much more than a house with rooms,” says Lindsey. “It’s a feeling. That cozy feeling when you’re bundled in a blanket with your favorite mug, or that feeling when your mom has warm cookies in the kitchen. I believe home shouldn’t be the cause of stress, but the antidote to it. A place to relax and recharge after a long day.”
At Rose Covered Cottage you’ll see everything from antique French settees to vintage gold mismatched tableware. “I love to find items with original paint and patina, she says.” Let’s take a peek inside Lindsey’s home and garden, which is also currently featured in the Summer 2025 issue of Cottage Home!
We simply adore Lindsay’s charming “La Vie en Rose” style! Please check out her Etsy shop, RoseCoveredCottageUS, and see below for our favorite items currently available… She also offers a special collected holiday collection that launches every November. You can also follow @rosecoveredcottage on Instagram for ongoing inspiration.
“These are antique treasures that I would use in my own home,” says Lindsey. “I love to mix shabby chic items with a touch of French to make a home unique and livable. I have a passion for finding just the right treasure to make a space your own. I work hard to find one of a kind pieces here and abroad. Each piece in my shop is a reflection of my passion to make home a sanctuary where we can live, love, laugh, and gather around the table to enjoy moments with those we love.”
Nestled atop Ox Hill in Seal Harbor, Maine, the shingle-style cottage known as Passage West has been a cherished part of designer Kate Davis’s family’s history since its construction in 1922. As a child, she spent idyllic summers there, forging memories that would later inspire her career in interior design. When the opportunity arose to reacquire the home, Davis embraced the chance to restore it, honoring its storied past while infusing it with renewed vitality. The comprehensive renovation involved meticulous preservation of original elements like wavy-glass windows and reclaimed maple floors, alongside thoughtful updates to accommodate modern living. This labor of love reflects a deep commitment to blending historical integrity with contemporary comfort.
“Anyone else would have torn it down,” Keith Higgins of EL Higgins Building and Remodeling told Maine Home + Design. Higgins and his team worked with Davis in saving the home along with architectural designer Todd Stanley, founder of Downeast Home Design.
The original banister in the entry remains.
“I knew I could bring it back to the home I remembered from my childhood,” said Davis, who feels passionately about saving old houses. Let’s take a peek inside with photography by Emily Gilbert.
Anchored by lobster-print wallpaper from Abnormals Anonymous, the dining room reflects coastal Maine nostalgia. Gold fretwork chairs nod to Chinese Chippendale design, while a lacquered table with bamboo legs (Miles Redd for Ballard Designs) blends classic style with approachable fun.
A lively teal trim (Farrow & Ball’s “Vardo”) adds freshness to this original space. An antique chair was reupholstered in raspberry crosshatch fabric, and a Hilary Winfield abstract painting introduces modern flair. Original pieces like Asian-imported lamps and side tables were retained for their heritage value.
The kitchen was the heart of the transformation. A formerly awkward layout was reworked to include a new central island, granite countertops from nearby Swans Island, and simple white cabinetry. Urban Electric pendants hang above the island with a canopy in Farrow & Ball’s “Blue Ground,” tying the space to the surrounding landscape.
The designer preserved the kitchen’s tiny breakfast nook.
The bedrooms are filled with playful patterns and personal touches like an iris painting Kate created at age 12. Wallpaper choices include “Tibet Tiger” and a whimsical dog and stripe pattern by Clarence House Also featured is Schumacher x Johnson Hartig’s delightful “Plates & Platters” wallpaper.
In her childhood bedroom, Davis paired a dresser pulled from storage with an original jug lamp.
A Slim Aarons photo infuses old-fashioned glamour into another second-floor bedroom suite.
Davis restored the cast-iron tubs, including the one in the third-floor hall bathroom; “Every tub has different feet,” she says.
Ginger jar shades and ikat cushions with Schumacher wallpaper picturing trompe l’oeil transferware.
A third-floor bedroom became a bathroom with a new clawfoot tub. Davis played with squares, using a painterly lattice wallpaper against a marble mosaic tile floor.
True to its past, the sunroom houses original furnishings and even the same faded books from your childhood summers, keeping the soul of the space intact. An original lamp and side table lend warmth and authenticity.
Model ships sit on the same windowsills in the sunroom as they did in Davis’s youth.
You can read more about this spectacular restoration via Maine Home + Design. Please visit Davis Designs for additional information, and follow @davisdesign on Instagram for ongoing information.
Also, check out Kate’s tennis clothing and accessories company, Love All Tennis, which she founded after graduating from Harvard Business School and seeing the need for high quality, chic vintage-inspired tennis designs. Love All Tennis also launched a darling capsule collection with Target this spring that you won’t want to miss!
Kate Davis and her HBS classmate, tennis partner and friend, Reena Russell Nasr, who leads the Love All Tennis advisory board.
Welcome to TGP Tidbits where we round up the happenings and our musings of the design industry each week. This week we take a look at Love All Tennis, The Hedges Inn, and de Gournay x Bunny Mellon. Written by Natalie Aldridge.
de Gournay x Bunny Mellon
True beauty lies in the details, and never has that been more evident than at the launch of the enchanting de Gournay x Bunny Mellon Collection. Celebrated with a dreamlike dinner amid the storied grounds of Oak Spring Garden, the event was a testament to the enduring legacy of Bunny Mellon.
Orchestrated to perfection by Gregory Blake Sams Events and de Gournay, the evening paid homage to Bunny Mellon‘s inimitable style and botanical legacy. Guests dined under a delicately suspended canopy inspired by her beloved crabapple arbor, surrounded by blooming meadows and the quiet magic of Oak Spring’s historic landscape.
Images courtesy of de Gournay.
The tablescape was nothing short of a masterpiece, with de Gournay’s new ‘Espalier’ design hand-painted on flowing linen tablecloths in soft garden tones. It was a fitting tribute to Bunny’s refined eye and love for cultivated beauty, where art and horticulture met.
Also unveiled were the collection’s exquisite porcelain pieces, each one a study in timeless elegance and inspired by Bunny’s lifelong fascination with the natural world. The collaboration is the first of its kind and, much like its muse, manages to feel both effortless and extraordinary.
Her legacy as a self-taught horticulturist and designer is legendary. From her redesign of the White House Rose Garden at President Kennedy’s request , to her influence on gardens from Virginia to Versailles , her commitment to understated elegance and natural harmony is evident.
This collaboration between de Gournay and the Bunny Mellon estate brings her vision to life in a new medium, allowing admirers to bring a piece of her garden-inspired artistry into their own homes.
The Hedges Inn
The Hamptons may have just gotten a bit chicer. From the sunny shores of Palm Beach to the timeless lanes of East Hampton, the iconic pink palace, The Colony Hotel, has officially gone bicoastal. Introducing its elegant new sister, The Hedges Inn. A storied 13-room retreat at the head of the pond, this historic inn is the latest design-forward venture by Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall.
Originally built in 1873 as a wedding gift from John D. Hedges to his bride, Caroline Isabella Homan, the property retains the grace and charm of its Victorian origins, with wraparound porches, gabled rooftops, and garden views, while embracing the fresh sophistication that defines a proper Hamptons summer.
Adding a delicious twist to the mix is Swifty’s, The Colony’s beloved Palm Beach restaurant, now popping up in East Hampton with its signature blend of comfort classics and social sparkle. With a calendar of lively events, including Swifty’s Trivia Nights, The Hedges is poised to become your go-to out East, whether you’re after serenity, scene, or simply a really good martini.
Marrying East Coast charm with The Colony’s unmistakable flair, The Hedges Inn is a welcome new addition to the Hamptons, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Love All Tennis
At The Glam Pad, we’ve long held that elegance should never be confined to the drawing room, or the dinner party, or the debutante ball. It should live just as comfortably on the tennis court, preferably in a crisply pleated skirt. The women behind Love All Tennis couldn’t agree more. This American brand serves up vintage-inspired style with modern-day ease, and trust us, it’s a match made in heaven.
Kate Davis and her HBS classmate, tennis partner and friend, Reena Russell Nasr, who leads the Love All Tennis advisory board.
Founded in 2021 by Harvard Business School alumna and lifelong tennis devotee Kate Davis, also the founder of Davis Designs, Love All Tennis began with a simple yet chic mission: to elevate classic courtwear with high-quality tailoring, thoughtful details, and a strong serve of old-school glamour. With silhouettes that tip their visor to the golden age of women’s sportswear, Kate reimagines tennis staples using refined trims and unexpected fabric pairings that can go from match point to martinis without missing a beat.
Kate’s “Tennis Clinic Style” from Seal Harbor Maine circa 1980s sets the tone for a love of red trim and vintage white looks.Love All Tennis
In 2024, Kate teamed up with fellow HBS grad, tennis partner, and dear friend Reena Russell Nasr, who now leads the brand’s advisory board. The duo brings not only a shared passion for the game, but also a fresh perspective on traditional style, one grounded in friendship, functionality, and a firm belief that fashion should be fun, even when you’re sweating through your third set.
Kate collects vintage tennis dresses but did not like the feeling of the stiff, cotton material. She identified a gap in the market for retro inspired tennis attire using modern performance fabrics.Love All Tennis
Now, for the grand slam: Love All Tennis has officially launched on Target.com, bringing its polished, preppy perfection to the masses. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply tennis adjacent, it’s never been easier to dress the part.
And speaking of good taste, be sure to check back Friday for a peek inside the Seal Harbor, Maine childhood summer home that Kate Davis recently restored. Think relaxed refinement with just the right amount of New England flair.
The 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens is one of the most anticipated design events of the season, and we are delighted today to take a peek inside! Presented by the Lake Forest Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago, this year marks the 20th anniversary of the beloved showhouse. To celebrate, they’ve opened the doors of Pembroke Lodge, a spectacular Georgian-style limestone estate originally designed in 1895 by famed classic architect Henry Ives Cobb.
Pembroke Lodge
Set along Lake Forest’s storied Green Bay Road, the estate was later reimagined in part by the legendary David Adler and his sister Frances Elkins, and it has seen many design lives since. Most recently, the interiors reflected a bold “Caesars Palace” inspired theatrical, late-20th-century aesthetic with glossy black marble and eye-popping contemporary art. (Click here to see the before pictures.) This year’s designers faced the challenge of restoring the home’s elegant bones while creating a warm and livable space for a modern family. And they delivered beautifully.
The 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse Interior Designers
Nearly 50 top interior and landscape designers participated, transforming 3.5 acres and over 15,000 square feet of interiors. Each room tells its own story… The estate’s original charm has been thoughtfully unearthed, with glimpses of historic millwork and wallpaper discovered beneath layers of plaster like hidden treasures.
Outside, top landscape firms created dreamy garden rooms, terraces, and a tennis court garden. The pool pavilion by Mandarine Home and tennis hut by Ash Street Interiors bring a bit of country club chic to the mix, rounding out the estate’s reawakening with effortless style. Let’s have a look at some of our favorites!
A delightful blend of elegance and whimsy, The Garden Room is the perfect setting for a chic ladies’ luncheon or a dreamy summer soirée. Inspired by nature’s vibrant palette, this space radiates freshness and warmth, making it an inviting retreat for entertaining.
The walls, wrapped in a blue treillage by Fuller Architectural Panels, pay homage to the endless sky just beyond the windows, creating a serene yet sophisticated backdrop. Plush Pierre Frey fabric envelops the chairs in sunlit yellows and lush greens, echoing the warmth of golden afternoons and the verdant embrace of a garden in full bloom. A lucite and glass dining table by Brilliant Acrylic Designs keeps the space feeling light and ethereal, allowing the natural beauty of the room to shine. Meanwhile, the addition of playful swings brings a touch of whimsy—offering a charming perch for conversation and a restful escape from the lively energy of a gathering.
Beneath it all, a layered foundation of jute rug from Stark and a decorative rug from The Rug Gallery softens the once-cool marble, adding depth, texture, and a grounded sense of warmth. Every detail in this space invites guests to linger, laugh, and revel in the beauty of an indoor garden brought to life.
Inspired by the period of the home with a modern art deco edge, we present the Gentleman’s retreat. Bathed in warm neutrals with a pop of color. The furnishings are decidedly Biedermeier, Charles X and art deco offering a traditional yet fashion forward interior. The leopard upholstery is classic and lends an air of sophistication to this dynamic interior. We are inspired by the myriad of textures and surfaces chosen for the space, including burled wood accents, alabaster, bronze and sheepskin. The masculine color scheme is fit for relaxing and sitting back with a cordial and Cuban cigar. We enjoyed the process of the design and hope that you like it too!
SOURCES: Wallpaper: Phillip Jeffries; Millwork (Bookcases, Fireplace Mantel, Mirror Frame, Trim and Crown Molding): CMG Designs; General Contracting: Alpha House Construction; Drapery Fabrication: Edco Drapery Workroom; Drapery and Ottoman Fabric: Pindler; Lighting: Visual Comfort; Fireplace Stone Surround: Marble Emporium; Area Rug: Oscar Isberian; Mirror: S and S Glass Company; Ottoman Fabrication: Cisneros Furniture
When approaching the Paneled Study, we look to pay homage to the icons that once graced it with their talents. Our aim is to restore the room to its former glory and to portray a masculine clubby space adorned with fine art, tailored furnishings, and rarities from across the globe. A cabinet of curiosities reflecting the inhabitants travels and interest.
SOURCES: Empire shelter back sofa: Birkman Interiors; sofa fabric: Schumacher; sofa trim: Samuel & Sons; Chinese demi-lune cabinets: Birkman Interiors; English roll arm chairs: Birkman Interiors; arm chair fabric: Manuel Canovas; arm chair welt: Samuel & Sons; arm chair tassel: Samuel & Sons; arm chair pillows: Fortuny; English tufted barrel back chair: Birkman Interiors; English tufted barrel back chair fabric: Clarence House; Edwardian games table: Birkman Interiors; Gustavian painted side chairs: Birkman Interiors; English leather capped arm chair & ottoman: Birkman Interiors; English leather capped arm chair & ottoman fabric: Ralph Lauren; Portuguese writing table: Birkman Interiors; writing table chair: Birkman Interiors; writing table chair fabric: Fortuny; carved regency console: Birkman Interiors; black lacquer and brass trunk: Birkman Interiors; drapery hardware: Tillys Interiors; drapery fabric: Manuel Canovas; drapery trim: Schumacher; pen shell cocktail table: Century Furniture; faux tortoise bench: Birkman Interiors; ikat hearthside chair: Sherrill Furniture; ikat hearthside chair fabric: Manuel Canovas; ikat hearthside chair velvet tape: Samuel & Sons; serpentine drinks table: Birkman Interiors; fiddle back arm chairs: Birkman Interiors; fiddle back arm chair fabric: Cowtan & Tout; chandelier: Visual Comfort; floor lamps: Visual Comfort; ceiling paint: Benjamin Moore – Bryant Gold #HC-7
For the Ladies Lounge, I recalled some of my fondest memories of childhood growing up a mile north of the showhouse on Green Bay Road. I wanted to recreate images of these treasured memories and take the room back to a time where summer days were long, cigarettes and Bain de Soleil were in vogue, and ladies played backgammon while drinking Tab with a rotary phone never far away. It is in this spirit that I knew we had to use the beautiful Schumacher floral wall covering – as it captures the essence of vintage florals favored in the 1970’s. We draped the bar and toilet sink in a preppy, Schumacher pin stripe (what you would often see on young children attending LFCDS, down the road) and added whimsical trims to bring fun to the space because after all, it’s the Ladies Lounge where hours are spent playing backgammon, smoking, drinking, and on the occasional dalliance. These colorful and elegant textiles from Schumacher are mixed with contemporary art that capture the essence of the 1970’s and antique furnishings, including a vintage wicker table set, French barometer, clock and mirror. Overhead lighting and the shower cornice are a nod to my Greek heritage and to architect David Adler who built the pool house and was known to stamp this motif on his work which you can see across beautiful homes in Lake Forest. Whimsical period ceramics from Fitz and Floyd and Jean Roger complete the space. The Ladies Lounge is a bow to the 1970’s, but feels fresh and well suited for any ladies that want to spend time in a beautiful space.
SOURCES: Walls: Schumacher Miles Redd Madame de Pompadour panels in blue installed by DaVinci Painters INC. Millwork installed and painted by DaVinci Painters INC. Ceiling, Fine Paints of Europe P05510 painted by DaVinci Painters INC. Window Treatments: Schumacher Ingrid Silk Check Sky with Schumacher Bell Fringe, Ivory Labor and Installation, Chicago Upholstery & Drapery Company. Upholstery: Skirting on bar: Schumacher Charee Silk Stripe, Green trimmed in Schumacher Wooden Ball Fringe. Seat cushions: Schumacher Venetian Silk Velvet, Petal with Schumacher Cedric Cotton Lip Cord with Schumacher Ingrid Silk Check, Sky ties. Skirting on Sink: Schumacher Charee Silk Stripe Green trimmed in Schumacher Cotton Tassel Fringe. Shower Cornice and draperies: Schumacher Madame de Pompadour panels, blue cornice trimmed in Schumacher Medium Faille Tape, Blush and Shower Draperies trimmed in Schumacher Pom Pom Trim with Labor and Installation by Chicago Upholstery & Drapery Company. Lighting: Vaughan Lighting from John Rosselli & Associates, Merchandise Mart Chicago. Tole Fixture in Toilet Bath: Lantern & Scroll. Flooring: Patterson Flynn Martin, Marcia Jumbo Boucle Sisal, Mountain Ash. Stone: Polished Carrara by Global Marble & Granite Importers. Fabrication: Sprovieri’s Custom Counters. Hardware: Plumbing goods by Brizo® Chicago, featuring the Rook® Kitchen Collection and Invari® Bath Collection”. Furniture: Vintage Wicker Table Chairs, Antique French Clock, Mirror Ashley & Sloane; Decorative Accessories: Anna’s Warehouse & Marketplace: Wall Brackets Casa Branca: Casa Branca x Fleur Palmette Mirror, Jean Roger ceramic frog cachepots, Rattan Swirl Tray, Rattan Scalloped Tray, Hand painted Poldina table lamps with bamboo shades, Cabbage tureen, Peter Beaton x Casa Branca Addison Hat, Fleur Candela Mirror, Casa Gusto: Plaster bows ; Chefanie cocktail napkins; Weezie: Bath and swim towels & robe
Step into the welcoming elegance of Pembroke Lodge’s Entrance Hall. The entry sets the tone and tenor for a home’s unfolding decoration, delighting guests with a glimpse into the spirit and sensibility of its inhabitants.
The legendary brother-and-sister duo, David Adler and Frances Elkins, were tasked with creating this entrance in the 1930s. While the original millwork by Adler had been removed over the years, the foyer still retains much of its timeless beauty, particularly the symmetrical order and the striking leaded-glass fanlight and sidelights. During renovations, fragments of Elkins’ original wallpaper were rediscovered and later identified through the archives of the prestigious French fabric house Pierre Frey. In 1803, Parisian painter and engraver Jean-Baptiste Huet designed the original paper, Diane Chasseresse, based on the goddess of the hunt. This romantic Rococo scheme, incorporating classical mythology and bucolic pastoral scenes, served as a reference point for the foyer’s current paper, Braquenie’s Les Muses et Les Lions.
Elaborate portieres, freshly painted millwork, and a stunning chandelier enhance the entry’s grandeur. A pair of French pier tables—topped with console lamps echoing details from the wallpaper—stand below a stately pair of Regency mirrors inset with marbleized paper. Artwork and intaglios adorn the walls, adding a personal touch of refinement. Finally, a chic upholstered bench invites guests to linger and admire a Chippendale glass cabinet housing a curated collection of figurines— lions, birds, and bunnies— inspired by the charming scenes of the toile.
Here, in this architectural gem of a space, history, art, and design converge—creating a first impression that lingers long after guests have crossed the threshold.
SOURCES: Wallpaper Les Muses et Les Lion, Braquenie/Pierre Frey, Holly Hunt, ceiling paper, Greco Stripe in Sky, Schumacher, console tables, bench, side chair all vintage, Chippendale cabinets Vintage Refined. Florence wallpaper, Schumacher, on Carlotta mirrors, Ballard Design, drapery and tablecloth fabric, Schumacher, decorative trim, Brimar, Center table, Ashely & Sloane, Carpet, Stark, Epingle fabric, Neisha Crosland, striped velvet, Pindler, accessories, Anna’s Mostly Mahogany, Heritage Trail Antiques, Redefined Decor and designers own. Drapery workroom, Cynthia Keltz Designs, Interior Painting, Filapy Decorating, Wallpaper Installation, David Dillinger. Benches and cushions, Thomas O’Brien for Century Furniture, Georgian brass hall lantern, New Metal Crafts and restoration, The Bellows Shoppe, chandelier chain, Visual Comfort, Custom lacquer door in Benjamin Moore paint, Correa Fine Finishes, Door Hardware, Studio 41, planters, Chairish
The Ladies’ Office is a feminine, elegant sanctuary designed to serve as an inspiring workplace or private escape for the woman of the house. The walls are cloaked in a modern floral by Pierre Frey which inspired the room’s color palette of soft greens and shades of pinks and corals. The custom upholstered furniture offers guests both functional and comfortable places of respite. Coupled with layers of vintage lighting, art and accessories, the result is an inspired space that exudes personality, a bit of whimsy and timeless sophistication. The en-suite bathroom is an oasis of color and sophisticated pattern mixing. Themulti-tone marble floor provides the foundation for a whimsical, feminine design intended to complement the Office’s palette.
A fresh take on a room that loves nostalgia. Formal, polished, but far from stuffy, our design for the dressing room draws inspiration from Edith Wharton’s Boudoir at The Mount (1902), and from the colors and patterns of men’s vintage pajamas and accessories. This reimagined space is grounded by Elise Metzger’s hand painted wallpaper mural, which takes the paisley motif to surreal levels with a landscape of flowers, grasses, birds and bugs.
A carefully edited palette of aqua, livable reds, peachy pinks, olive, and bright blues are punctuated with, and help to re-contextualize the black and white tile of the existing floor. Heavy doses of trim serve as a tribute to the moldings in Wharton’s room.
Four brand new pieces – the circular vanity, dressing screen, hexagonal side table, and valet – were designed by Elise, developed in collaboration with, and expertly crafted by Trim Tech Designs. The carefully selected marble was fabricated to perfection by DTK Stoneworks. Ava Goldberg of Animal Handmade designed & produced gorgeous leather detailing for the pieces. Our dressing room was designed both as a place of respite and dressing for a night out with the people we love most.
Forward Fruit – Dressing Room Photographed by Heather TalbertForward Fruit – Dressing Room Photographed by Heather Talbert
SOURCES: Millwork: Trim Tech Designs, Stone: DTK Stoneworks, Rug: Stark, Paint: Benjamin Moore (Ceiling is Florida Keys, Mantel is Touscon Red, Dressing Screen and Valet interior is Face Powder, Hex Table is Avalon Teal & Parkside Dunes) Wallpaper: Forward Fruit, Leather Work: Animal Handmade, Chandelier: Jayson Home & Garden, Desk & Floor Lamp: Entler, Faucet & Hardware: Brizo, Fabric,Trim, Ceiling – Schumacher, Valet Garments: Veronica Schaefer, Chairs: Vintage Refined, Furniture, Art: de/Aurora, Pease Plastics, Assembled Works, Painting on Side Table: Megan Greene, Art: Midnight Gallery, Sconces: Visual Comfort, Valet Hardware: Baldwin Hardware, Window Treatments: Sophosco.com, Window Treatment Trim: Brimar Inc, Vanity Mirror Frame: Margaret Bobo-Dancy, Painting: Gresch Painting & Artistic Finishes, Wallpaper Installation: First Floor Chicago
Forward Fruit – Dressing Room Photographed by Heather Talbert
Once you enter the Tropical Rose Lacquered double doors with beautiful brass hardware, you will want to immediately sit down to take in all of the beautiful elements which make up this room. From the amazing new architectural trim and mantle by Clive Christian, to the beautiful hand-painted and embroidered silk walls by Fromental. These two elements make up the backdrop to this elegant and sophisticated space. The room has traditional features while blended with modern furniture pieces. You’ll notice on each side of the double entry a custom banquette inspired by Frances Elkins, upholstered in Holland and Sherry wool with a beautiful applique by Holland & Sherry. Fabricated by Artisan 312. In front of this banquette is the spectacles table by Holly Hunt. On the other side of the doors, you will notice a custom marble console. This was made of two slabs and constructed by slicing the slab in narrow pieces to create the curves making up the front detail of this console. Not everyone can do this, but Euro Marble Supply did! The marble was from Margraf Spa. The beautiful antique mirror from Holly Hunt hangs with great pride above this unique and beautiful console. In the center of the room, you will find an elegant seating area anchored by the beautiful area rug from Oscar Isberian. Two white sofas with dress maker skirts draping on the floor by Artisan 312. The beautiful cocktail table by Tom Faulkner found at Assembled Works, sits proudly in the center of this space with the beautiful Murano Chandelier by Barovier & Toso hanging above.
This room has so many unique and beautiful products not only resourced here in IL, but also, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the UK. A room full of sophistication and beauty.
This powder room was inspired by Frances Elkins, who has historical ties to Pembroke Lodge. Thibaut’s “Wild Wisteria” wallcovering evokes the mural in the Helen Shedd Reed estate’s dining room and provided a beautiful palette to work with in the space. A fret work bench welcomes guests at the entrance and features a cushion and pillows in classic tailored patterns. Walk further into the space and a ladies makeup table provides a sweet moment to take pause. The homeowner requested his and hers powder rooms, and while the rooms coordinate, feminine elements were added to one such as the fabric lining the vanity, which is topped with honed green marble. Visual Comfort’s lighting overhead adds an elegance that makes this space as timeless today as in Elkins’ age.
Sources: Construction: Ablaze Design Group, Wallpaper: Thibaut*, Wallpaper Installer: Blue Drop Group, Plumbing: Waterworks*, Countertops: Provide and Fabricated by DTK Stone Works, Vanities: Vanity & Co., Overhead Lighting: Visual Comfort, Sconces: Vintage Galerie des Lampes, Bench: Iatesta Studio / John Rosselli*, Fabrics and Trims: Thibaut*, Trim on Dressing Table: Samuel & Sons*, Wallcovering: Thibaut*, Wallcovering behind skirted vanity: Sanderson*, Pillow and upholstery workroom: Chicago Upholstery, Rug: Rugport, Paint: Benjamin Moore, Mirror and accessories: Source & Style, Flowers: Flowers by Laura Lou, *Indicates Merchandise Mart sources
The Rotunda’s design draws from Palm Beach glamour and Parisian sophistication, blending bold color and texture into a spirited yet refined space. Its curved walls, a defining feature, display vibrant Kravet botanical panels with lush greens and vivid florals, softening the architecture with organic energy. A Stark Missoni chevron carpet in jewel tones complements this, guiding one toward the Primary bedroom with its dynamic pattern.
At the center, a restored vintage settee, reupholstered in luxurious marbled fabric, echoes the room’s lively hues, adding playful elegance and whimsical depth. Illumination enhances the transformation, with Serena and Lily fixtures replacing the original lighting. Their clean lines and coastal charm cast a warm glow, while Pooky Lighting sconces frame the panels, accentuating the curves with soft sophistication.
The tented ceiling, crafted from Pindler Stripe fabric by Chicago’s Utopia Workroom, draws the eye upward with its simple pattern, the contrasting tape and scalloped edge add a touch of whimsical. The reimagined closet dazzles with ‘Togather Design’ accessories and refined Brimar and Baldwin brass hardware, elevating it into a continuation of the Rotunda’s opulent narrative.
Step into the Formal Library designed by Kipling House Interiors. This breathtaking sanctuary showcases the firm’s unapologetically Traditional aesthetic under a captivating canopy of blooming flowers and birds in flight, through a custom mural by Gracie. The delicate floral details make their way from the ceiling into the bookcases, creating a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere. The corresponding warm, wheat-toned woodwork helps to beautifully frame this artistic display.
Each opening in the room is adorned with over 50 yards of vibrant Pierre Frey ikat fabric, and the team infused the space with rich textures and deep colors that complement the lively palette of the mural. The furniture, upholstered in energetic hues inspired by the floral motifs, echoes the spirit of the mural, creating a cohesive, luxe, and inviting environment that feels fitting among the grandeur f the house.
This library serves as a sumptuous getaway, a perfect retreat from the bustle of the day, where one can immerse themselves in the beauty of design and the joy of reading. It’s a harmonious blend of artistry and comfort, making it an enchanting haven for all who enter.
SOURCES: Wallpaper: Gracie, installed by Ascher Brothers; Paint: Benjamin Moore Toasted Almond, painted by Divinci Painters; Rug: Stark, custom designed by Kipling House; Console Table: Mecox Gardens; Table Lamps: Visual Comfort; Shades: Lux Lampshades; Tufted Ottomans: Chicago Upholstery, Colefax and Fowler fabric; Botanical Artwork: Casa Gusto; Ceramic Shells: Harbinger; Picture Lights: Limehouse Lighting; Sofa: Chaddock, de Le Cuona fabric; Arm Chairs: Chaddock, Manuel Canovas fabric; Pedestal Table: Highland House; Lantern: Hector Finch; Slipper Chairs: Chicago Upholstery, Soane fabric; Drink Table: Visual Comfort, leather top by Ascher Brothers; Floor Lamp: Visual Comfort; Fabric Shade: Pierre Frey; Round Ottoman: Chicago Upholstery, de Le Cuona fabric, Samuel & Sons fringe; Fireplace Sconces: Visual Comfort; Mirror: Arteriors; Vintage Secretary: Bohori; Side Chair: Chaddock, Sanderson fabric; Bolster Pillows: Urban Workroom, Colefax an Fowler fabric, Samuel & Sons fringe; Turkish Corner Pillows: Urban Workroom, Pierre Frey fabric; Green Pillows: Urban Workroom, Rose Tarlow fabric, Samuel & Sons trim; Lumbar Pillow: Urban Workroom, Pierre Frey fabric, Manuel Canovas welt; Cabinet Doors: Urban Workroom, Schumacher fabric; Draperies: Urban Workroom, Pierre Frey fabric; Tiebacks: Schumacher, Samuel & Sons fringe tassel.
The Lake Forest Showhouse Dining Room reimagines the traditional dining experience, transforming it into a whimsical and versatile lounge space. Featuring the original fireplace designed by Frances Elkins, this room is a blend of sophistication and playfulness. The rich chocolate brown plaster coved walls provide a luxurious, moody foundation, while the furniture— adorned in bold, playful floral patterns—brings an unexpected elegant touch. Whether hosting a lively cocktail party, enjoying an intimate dinner, or post-dinner lounging, this space effortlessly adapts to any occasion. With its balance of refined details and cheerful touches, the room offers a welcoming environment for any occasion.
SOURCES: All fabrics and trimmings: Schumacher / rugs: Patterson Flynn / dining chairs: Schumacher Furniture / plates: Carolina Irving Daughters / chests: Highland House Furniture / chandelier: Iatesta via John Rosselli Chicago / sconces: Casa Branca / banquette: built by Al Klevia + custom design by Maggie Getz Studio / fireside chairs: built by Al Klevia + custom design by Maggie Getz Studio / footed ottomans: built by Al Klevia + custom design by Maggie Getz Studio / artwork: Leighton Fine Art / mirror: McLain Wiesand via John Rosselli Chicago / side tables: Vaughn via John Rosselli Chicago
iewing Pembroke Lodge for the first time, the external architecture of the home and grounds were stunning. We were first interested in looking at the tennis hut, but that seemed too small of a space. We loved the big open space of the Pool Pavillion and that it was covered. Choosing to design the pool pavilion, we liked that it offered such a nice big clean slate to work with and we could utilize some of the Architectual detail. We could visualize using the space as a vibrant entertaining room, as well as a comfortable reprieve from the hot Chicago sun.
We immediately loved the idea of big, swooping white drapes with a large banding in a fun color setting the backdrop and framing the view. Given the time of year for the Showhouse, we wanted to be able to close the drapes if it was cold or rainy. Thibaut graciously offered to sponsor the room, so we had fabulous indoor/outdoor fabrics to choose from. We fell in love with a main fabric and a wallpaper that also brought in the green of the outdoors, while also giving us the ability to add pops of purple, shades of blue, and neutrals. We like to do neutral big pieces and add lots of pops of fun color.
The inspiration for the space grew out of the fabric selection and finding unique pieces. Seeing it as an outdoor entertaining venue, we decided to incorporate an interesting bar that could be accessorized, plus a vintage coffee table and garden stools serving as end tables. And with Chicago weather in mind, we chose an indoor/outdoor rug from Fibreworks that can withstand the Chicago weather. We also added a beautiful Made Good concrete console that would add a new texture and place for lamps and the giant Celestine bowl we love.
Mandarine Home – Pool Pavillion Photographed by Heidi LancasterMandarine Home – Pool Pavillion Photographed by Heidi Lancaster
SOURCES: Wallpaper and fabrics: Thibaut Design; Painting and Paper Hanging Gonzalez Painting; Window treatments: Edco Workroom; Day bed, Concrete Console and Shell: Made Goods; Outdoor light fixture: Palecek; Outdoor Seating: Kingsley Bates; Window Treatment Banding Fabric: Quadrille; Vintage Coffee Table and Mirror Broome Street Design; Bar: Phillip Scott; Artwork: West Elm; Indoor/outdoor rug: Fibreworks; Paint: Benjamin Moore.
Mandarine Home – Pool Pavillion Photographed by Heidi Lancaster
he pool house cabana blends the charm of 1920s beachside hotels with nostalgia from Meghan’s childhood summers spent at a Connecticut beach club. More than just dressing rooms, the cabana serves as a retreat – a space to enjoy a smoothie after a mid-day swim and transition into a setting for evening cocktails.
Reworking the space meant balancing history with function. The original layout had small changing stalls, but opening up two of them created a welcoming seating area. A standout feature is the arched hallway ceiling, which is highlighted with wave-shaped fabric panels to enhance its curve and add height and movement to the space. Color and pattern were key in setting the mood. Soft yellows and blush tones create a light, playful atmosphere by day, transitioning into a rich, romantic ambiance at sunset.
Meghan Jay Design – Pool House Cabana Photographed by Heather TalbertMeghan Jay Design – Pool House Cabana Photographed by Heather TalbertMeghan Jay Design – Pool House Cabana Photographed by Heather TalbertMeghan Jay Design – Pool House Cabana Photographed by Heather Talbert
SOURCES: Stone: Calia Stone, fabricated by Remarkable Marble ; Panoramic & striped wallpapers: Isidore Leroy ; Fabrics: Sanderson & Pierre Frey; Trims: The Vale & Brimar; Sconces: Straydog Designs; Tile: The Fine Line ; Drapery & pillow fabrication: Cynthia Keltz Designs; Photography: Nick Mele Photography; Mirrors & accessories: Serena & Lily; Plumbing fixtures: House of Rohl; Hand-painted murals in dressing rooms: Julie Lawrence
We wanted to create a happy breakfast room! It all started with the floral Harlequin / Sanderson wallpaper. We love carnations and have never understood why so many people don’t like them. The colorations of this paper – especially the funky and interesting greens really drew us to it. We also use a lot of Iatesta Studio furniture for our projects and they graciously lent us one of their garden tables. This table is fantastic not just because it is beautiful and beautifully made but because it is so efficient and you can fit so many people around it. The light fixture and chairs are both by Bonacina, an extremely old and revered Italian rattan company. The color is so perfect in the room and the chairs are comfortable and stackable if you need them out of the way. All the fabrics are Sanderson / Harlequin – we took them and patch worked them to create the banquette – and then took another and upholstered the doors and drawers of our laminate serving piece – laminate is back! We love a plate rack and used some of our favorite dishes in it. Some of the art was borrowed from Richard Norton Gallery – it felt so lively and seemed to punctuate all the fabrics and wallpaper. The cheery tile floor from Artistic Tile helped tie it all together.
SOURCES: All fabrics and wallpaper from Sanderson Group; Tile Floor from Artistic Tile; Table from Iatesta Studio; Chairs & light fixture from Bonacina 1889; Blue laminate server & plate rack from Woodface Cabinetry; Hardware from Katonah Hardware; Some art from Richard Norton Art Gallery; Upholstery – Leo’s Upholstery; Architecture – Randall Architects
In a house that has everything, true luxury is creating unique experiences right at home. We invite you to experience our “English Resting Room,” designed with layers of heritage English patterns, prints, and textures. As designers, we seek inspiration everywhere we go, and in 2018 we began traveling with a group of ladies to London biannually. It is one of our favorite places to visit as it is always warm, inviting, historic, and sophisticated. We always return to our studio full of ideas and appreciation for the evergreen nature of design throughout history and culture. Our aim was to transform this small space into a special retreat that transports you to a cozy cottage overlooking the rolling hills of the English countryside.
We envision this space as a multi-functional room that can span the evolution and seasons of life for the homeowner. The custom built-in could easily store games to be played with and then tucked neatly away, or the shelves could host books to create the most inviting library, beckoning its guests to get lost in the pages on the sofa wrapped in windowpane wool. The antique secretary was a special find, and would be the perfect spot for penning thank you notes and holiday cards, or catching up on the day’s e-mails. No matter how the homeowner decides to use the space, we trust that it will bring moments of respite from the noise of life, and will be the perfect backdrop for an escape.
North Shore Nest – English Resting Room Photographed by Aimee MazzengaNorth Shore Nest – English Resting Room Photographed by Aimee MazzengaNorth Shore Nest – English Resting Room Photographed by Aimee MazzengaNorth Shore Nest – English Resting Room Photographed by Aimee Mazzenga
SOURCES: Floor Covering: Manufacturer: L&M Custom Carpets; Sectional: Manufacturer: Precedent, Fabric: Fabricut; Sectional Pillow #1 Fabric: Michael Smith; Sectional Pillow #2 Fabric: Jasper; Sectional Pillow #3, Fabric: Schumacher; Sectional Table: Manufacturer: Hickory Chair; Wall Sconces – Manufacturer: Visual Comfort; Picture Lights: Manufacturer: Pooky; Antique Side Table: Manufacturer: Unknown; Fireside Chair: Manufacturer: Highland House, Fabric: Schumacher,Trim: Samuel & Sons; Floor Lamp: Manufacturer: Visual Comfort; Antique Secretary Manufacturer: Unknown; Wallcovering for Secretary: Schumacher; Secretary Lamp: Visual Comfort; Accent Chair: Labor: Brothers Furniture, Cushion Fabric: Naymay Samay; Accent Chair Pillow: Fabric: Schumacher; Window Treatments: Labor: CM Studios, Fabric: Schumacher, Hardware-Manufacturer: Brimar; Built-in Wallovering-Manufacturer: House of Hackney, Labor: Fresh Luuk; Built-In Shirred Skirt-Labor: CM Studios, Fabric: Chelsea Textiles; Fireplace Artwork: Midnight Gallery; Paint Colors: Walls: Benjamin Moore Coastal Fog, Built-In: Benjamin Moore Cushing Green.
North Shore Nest – English Resting Room Photographed by Aimee Mazzenga
This little, almost secret nook at the end of the long hall lent itself to be bejeweled on every surface. A quiet spot to let your eyes wander the beautiful mural paper. Murals give the illusion of space which this tiny space needed. The custom built-in is like a perch in the trees holding your favorite book and collectables. Have a phone call with your bestie or read a magazine and hopefully no one will know where you are hiding, for a bit.
Art and layering are an essential part of our Design philosophy at R Titus Designs. Redesigning one’s home is a great privilege for our clients trust with us. We respect the era of the home yet give it the modern amenities today’s Client’s are looking for.
R Titus Designs – Back Stairwell & Reading Nook Photographed by Dustin HalleckR Titus Designs – Back Stairwell & Reading Nook Photographed by Dustin HalleckR Titus Designs – Back Stairwell & Reading Nook Photographed by Dustin Halleck
SOURCES: Custom table, millwork and built in by Yellow Mug Inc.; Wallpaper by House of Hackney; Ottoman, bench cushion and skirt fabrics by Schumacher; Upholstery by Rodo’s Furniture & Upholstery; Shell Sconce by Collier Web; Plaster sconces and art lamps from Visual Comfort; Artwork by Anne Hayden, R Titus Designs, and Anne Loucks Gallery; Painting and wallpaper installation by DaVinci; Carpet runner by Stark; Window treatment fabric Kerry Joyce Textiles/ Drapery of Chicago workroom; Ceiling fabric by Maxwell Fabrics; Mirror and accessories from R Titus Designs Studio, Landing Console table by Made Goods
R Titus Designs – Back Stairwell & Reading Nook Photographed by Dustin Halleck
he hallway and pantry are reimagined with a vibrant, ethereal design, transforming them into two distinct yet connected spaces that tell a story of color, texture, and artistry while seamlessly blending function and beauty. The hallway, just off the kitchen and pantry, is reimagined as a moment of delight—an enchanting passage that invites movement and curiosity. A bold, colorful wallpaper washes the space in vibrancy, while vintage furniture and locally sourced art infuse it with history and charm. The fusion of old and new creates a collected, timeless aesthetic, making this transitional space feel just as intentional as any room in the home.
In the pantry, form meets function in a beautifully curated display of practical elegance. Open shelving becomes an artful showcase of carefully selected pieces, where everyday essentials double as design elements. Thoughtfully styled, the space balances aesthetics with highly functional storage solutions, ensuring that even the most practical moments of home life feel elevated.
Together, these spaces redefine the everyday, turning simple transitions and storage into an inspiring, intentional experience— where artful living meets practical luxury.
For The Laundry, I was inspired by the history and elegance of Pembroke Lodge and by the English country manor homes of that era. Constructed on the cusp of “the gilded age,” this unique time in history saw many scientific, technological and industrial innovations, including the arrival of electricity. In the late 1880s it caused quite a stir as the Vanderbilts were among the first in America to adopt electricity in their home. It was immensely expensive and therefore terribly chic, so I imagined it was likewise immediately added to the building plans of our illustrious bygone homeowners. I kept all of this in mind when selecting the Visual Comfort light fixtures, incorporating naturally patinaed brass finishes with an industrial flair, evoking the spirit of the era. Post-impressionism and the beginning of abstract works were emerging as the art trends of the time, both of which are reflected in my selection; the art is mixed with treasures authentic to the era, including a one-of-a-kind brass candle lamp and several lovely antique trinket boxes.
The beautiful Perrin and Rowe faucet is another nod to the period; aptly named “Edwardian,” it is a near replica of those at the turn-of-the-century. The Edwardian era also marked the emergence of romance in art and literature; I strove to reflect this newfound romanticism in the whimsy of the Thibaut wallcovering.
The custom cabinetry was inspired by antique Louis XVI chests. I designed these custom pieces and Trim Tech executed them flawlessly. I sourced antique brass ring pulls, escutcheons and keys to further the authenticity. (These pieces are for sale and can be completely customized to fit your home.) Marble also takes center stage in this room, with a marble desk for the House Manager, inspired by the housekeeper’s office in Edwardian homes, but adapted for today’s modern families: this is the perfect space for taking care of behind-the-scenes to-dos. The custom fabricated marble sink is a show-stopping work of art by Marble Emporium, who also created the marble-tops for the chests. And the stunning marble checkerboard floor from The Fine Line grounds the space with a tumbled antiqued edge that adds yet another hint of the vast history of Pembroke Lodge.
Sources: Cabinetry: Trim Tech; Paint: Benjamin Moore; Hardware: Antiques, sourced from Europe; Fabric and Trim: Brunschwig & Fils; Wallcovering: Thibaut; Ceiling Wallcovering: Serena & Lily; Light fixtures: Visual Comfort; Faucet: Perrin and Rowe; Marble sink, tabletops and desk: Marble Emporium; Tile: The Fine Line; Various Collected Art and Antiques: Details Upon Request.
Step into an enchanting retreat where whimsy and sophistication intertwine, creating a dreamy haven for a young girl’s imagination. This magical space is brought to life through the generosity of our esteemed sponsors, each of whom has contributed to the room’s refined beauty and timeless charm. Our design was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Cowtan & Tout, Colefax & Fowler, Schumacher, and amuel & Sons, whose exquisite fabrics, wallpapers, and trims brought depth and beauty to this space. Nestled within this fairytale setting, a plush upholstered daybed, generously sponsored by Parker Southern, invites sweet dreams and afternoon daydreaming. The exquisite pair of sitting chairs, covered in Jane Churchill’s Wildwood collection by Cowtan & Tout, offers a cozy perch, complementing the elegant design of the chairs by Coley Home. The space is illuminated by our continued partnership with Visual Comfort, whose stunning lighting fixtures cast a warm and inviting glow, perfect for both play and quiet reflection. At the heart of the room, custom cabinetry by WoodStreet Cabinets in Mokena, IL, seamlessly integrates storage and style, ensuring that this enchanting space remains as functional as it is beautiful. The entire room is brought together with a palette of soft, romantic hues, made possible by the generosity of Benjamin Moore, whose exquisite paint selections enhance the dreamy aesthetic.
Beyond the bedroom, the ensuite bathroom is equally captivating, thanks to the exquisite craftsmanship of Cambria Stone and Select Surfaces, whose stunning stonework and finishes bring an element of sophistication to the space. The luxurious plumbing fixtures, selected in partnership with The House of Rohl, elevates the bathroom to a sanctuary of refined elegance. Every element of this space has been carefully curated to balance whimsy with lasting beauty, ensuring that this room will be cherished for years to come. We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors, whose generosity and vision have helped transform this space into a true fairytale come to life.
Originating in the mid-1800s in South China, Mahjong is the new/old hot game, taking game tables across America by storm. The clacking of ivory tiles and the hushed whispers of players discarding their hands is the soundtrack of many happy hours of friends socializing, strategizing and scoring.
The Mahjong Room— feminine not frilly— rooted in soft pinks, leafy greens and splashes of navy stems from the House of Harris’ Fancy Flock wallcovering featuring herons, delicate flowers and bright lily pads. A pink, round, linen-wrapped game table acts as the focal point of the space. A custom scalloped settee (inspired by Cesare Lacca and dotted with textured pillows) paired with a set of vintage chairs (designed by Rene Prou and reupholstered in Pierre Frey) invites players to come to the table.
A gossip chair for two is positioned perfectly — a place to view the game or to whisper strategy. Adjacent to the window dressed with woven romans and thick stationary panels, stands a spindle leg bookshelf brimming with collected treasures. A vintage console is a place to tuck away extra 2025 cards and shufflers. Soft light emits from the center fixture, which, paired with a sculptural floor lamp,vintage Murano table lamps with pleated silk shades, and dramatic brass wall sconces ensures that everyone looks like a winner in this room. Just an arm’s reach away, a tucked away Champagne Bar for bubbly served in delicate coupes encourages ongoing libations— a nook to saddle up to for celebrating a winning Quint line, or to wallow in the no Jokers in a pair rule.
The space is a sophisticated sanctuary for ladies— an elegant spot that indulges the most focused card-carrying gamers while simultaneously embracing the most maiden of spectators. Much like the game itself, which is experiencing a true resurgence, the elevated Mahjong Room is a fresh spin on the classic Game Room. Crack, Bam, Dot!
SOURCES: General Contractor: C&P Remodeling; Paint: Benjamin Moore’s Desert Rose; Wallcoverings: House of Harris; Custom Settee & Gossip Chair: Park West Furniture; Mahjong Table: Two Worlds Arts; Vintage Game Chairs: South Loop Loft; Settee Side Tables: Oomph Home; Brass Side Table: Jayson Home; Spindle Bookshelf: Green Row; Vintage Console: Meg Made; Rug: Stark Carpets; Center Flushmount and Floor Lamp: Curry & Co.; Wall Sconces: Urban Electric; Vintage Murano Lamps: Janet Wiebe; Champagne Bar Flush Mount: Redefined Decor; Window Treatments: The Shade Store; Settee Fabric, Pillows and Drapes: Cowtan & Tout; Gossip Chair simultaneously embracing the most maiden of spectators. Much like the game itself, which is experiencing a true resurgence, the elevated Mahjong Room is a fresh spin on the classic Game Room. Crack, Bam, Dot! Fabric: Schumacher; Lumbars: Noblis through Holly Hunt; Game Chair Fabric: Pierre Frey through Holly Hunt; Trim: Samuel & Sons; Light Switches: Forbes & Lomax; Bar Shelves: Soil & Oak; Champagne Bar counter top: Chadwick’s Surfaces International; Mahjong Tiles: The Mahjong Line; Custom Mahjong Leather Mat: Tigre de Tartan; Accessories: ToGather Sourcing & Design & Jayson Home; Art: I Always Wanted to Read the Dictionary from Start to Finish (2007) by Cig Harvey through the Laughlin Gallery; Under the Shade by Nick Mele; Light Up by Carla Sutera Sardo through ArtStar
Nearly everything on view within the showhouse is for sale, with 15% of proceeds benefiting the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago. The Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens is open now through May 25th. Tickets are available here and must be purchased in advance.
If you find yourself anywhere near the Chicago area this spring, it’s absolutely worth the trip. This showhouse is not only a celebration of American design heritage, it’s also a heartfelt tribute to the power of restoration, reinvention, and community.
2025 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens: April 26 through May 25, 2025
As a fifth generation Californian, Anabel “Annie” Higgins grew up on a working lemon grove ranch – citrus blossoms, horses, dogs and chickens lived outside, while English and French antiques, fine china, monogramed linen and hip mid-century design permeated the interior of the redwood and glass ranch home. Her aesthetic formed as a juxtaposition of equestrian style, English Regency, fine craftsmanship and glamorous practicality.
Annie started Anabel Higgins Jewelry in 2013 during her recovery from breast cancer. Because of this, 10% of all profits are donated directly to charities fighting breast cancer, along with other organizations dear to her heart. All Anabel Higgins jewelry is handcrafted and fabricated in Los Angeles. The pieces she designs are for those who have an appreciation for art and nostalgia of the past, but who also want to invest in modern heirlooms.
Today, we are touring Annie’s beautiful 1930s Cape Cod style home, located in Pasadena, California…. which just so happens to be for sale! It was decorated by Stamps & Stamps, whose work we always adore!
Nestled in the highly sought-after San Rafael Flats, this stunning Cape Cod-style residence radiates timeless elegance and tranquility. Elevated above the street, the residence not only has privacy it is surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens and offers breathtaking treetop views, creating an even more peaceful retreat.
Inside, sunlight pours through expansive windows, highlighting the home’s sophisticated details—rich hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and intricate moldings that showcase its classic architectural charm. The interior space features an elegant living room, a formal dining room, and a bright sunroom, a quaint breakfast nook ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. A downstairs bedroom or optional office adds versatility to accommodate your lifestyle.
The main residence includes five bedrooms and five bathrooms. Additionally the home includes an inspirationally designed guest house. The guest house is equipped with a top of the line kitchen and bathroom that you won’t want to depart from. This added bonus provides ample living space while effortlessly combining charm, functionality, and tranquility. Nestled in a tree-lined neighborhood rich in history, it is surrounded by the architectural elegance of Pasadena’s grand estates, offering a timeless and sophisticated setting.
A rare opportunity to own a truly exceptional home in one of Pasadena’s most prestigious enclaves!
