When it comes to trends, the proliferation of social media has created a warp-speed saturation effect when determining what’s “in” and “out” amongst the masses. Therefore, we believe it is more important now than ever to develop your own style, one that is unique to your personal taste and tells the story of your life. Today’s tour is an excellent example of a one-of-a-kind, carefully curated home that will stand the test of time…
Stewart Manger is a New York-based interior designer with a pedigreed background that includes work with David Easton, Bunny Williams, David Kleinberg, and Sotheby’s London. Throughout his 20 year career, he has developed his eye though visits to historic houses, museums, and galleries throughout the Far East, India, Europe, and Africa Recently, he was commissioned by one of his longtime clients to transform their 19th-century townhouse in Kensington, London.
Classically Georgian in architecture, previous owners had overseen extensive renovations to the five-story, stucco-clad residence. Stewart carefully respected the townhouse’s history while mixing his clients’ significant art collection and passion for Art Deco style with antiques and traditional pieces throughout. The skillful combination of décor from various centuries and decades creates a timeless and bespoke home that cannot be replicated and truly showcases the lives of the homeowners.
This home was originally featured in Galerie magazine, and additional images were provided to The Glam Pad. Photography is by Fritz von der Schulenburg.
Born in the late 70s, I vividly remember the unfortunate avocado green and harvest gold movement of the time… We had an avocado green kitchen complete with refrigerator, sink, and stove. The wallpaper was an orange and yellow floral and we had bright yellow faux-bamboo chairs in the breakfast room. My aunt collected mushrooms and I’m pretty sure she had this exact canister set. So when this new trend started “popping up” on Instagram, I scratched my head and was terribly curious to learn more. Vogue first reported the trend as it hit the fashion industry last spring, and it has multiplied ever since, making its way into interiors. Today our super-sleuth contributing reporter, Natalie Aldridge, is here to investigate the fungus among us and its spreading popularity amongst the younger generations.
Here at The Glam Pad, we tend to stray a bit wary of trends. With that said, when an interesting trend sprouts up, we simply must investigate. During the summer of 2021, we began to see mushroom motifs popping up everywhere on our Instagram feed. From tablescapes to needlepoint and everything in between. Many months later these fungi do not seem to be budging. We all seem to spore crazed. Let’s dissect it!
Funky toadstool motifs came into popularity during the 1960-70s. The era of psychedelia brought on a fascination with fruit and vegetable colors and depictions on everything from kitchenware, textiles, and home trinkets. The mushroom emerged as the most popular stemming from the “magic mushroom” subculture which permeated into the mainstream by way of dress and décor.
Fast forward to the 2020s where toadstools are having a moment of similar fascination. One theory to this obsession is escapism. The brightly dotted fungi called Fly agaric, while not hallucinogenic have long had an enchanting association. Think Alice in Wonderland. Full of sustenance and wrapped in mystery, these fantastic fungi bring on a sense of whimsy and much-needed departure from the chaos of today. Mushrooms too are symbolic of growth and renewal. A much-needed sentiment.
Another nod to the 1970s, the famous mushroom-inspired lamps of the era designed by Verner Panton, Murano, Elio Martinelli, among others are making a huge resurgence. Less literal than the fungi motifs floating around, purveyors of design are recreating this classic silhouette left and right. While this style of lamp is mid-century in sensibility, the variety in color and figuration makes it achievable to work into even the most traditional of homes. The revival of mid-century décor seems to have a large role in the fungi frenzy.
So what are your thoughts on mushrooms? We personally love antique mushroom botanicals displayed en masse. They are particularly charming in the kitchen, like so.
The Glam Pad dislikes trends. Every January there is a silly “color of the year” announced and all of the shelter magazines clamor to report what’s “in” and “out” in an attempt to please advertisers and make you spend money. The Glam Pad believes in creating your own personal style that is based on timelessness and quality. As Alex Papachristidis says, “Good decorating should only be redone because you want to, not because it looks dated and you have to. Always changing things is an American sensibility, not a European one.”
I am happy to report that after years of living in a beige, disposable world, these values are finally making a comeback. You can read my Anti-Trends predictions from 2021 here and going back to 2018 here where I longed for this day, which has been ushered in largely by the Grandmillennial movement. Below, I have collected the best “Trends” for 2022 from leading publications. These “Trends” are timeless design principles that should not be forgotten in years to come!
“Expect English roll arm sofas, wingbacks, simple dining tables based on antique styles and pieces with detail and some history. For materials, we’re going to see a lot more natural materials become popular again. Marble, real wood, linens, mohair — things that feel more organic and nice to the touch,” said Erin Gates via Good Housekeeping.
Forbes reports, “There’s no better way to go maximalist than with a traditionally inspired interior. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean an abundance of floral prints or going full-on Grandma. Interior designer Ariel Okin tells me these can also be more subtle touches. “We are going to continue to see a rise in more layered, traditional interiors that are cozy, warm, and inviting. A blend of old and new: contemporary artwork and lighting paired with classic furniture silhouettes like an English roll arm sofa, for example. [These] are a good representation of this ‘new traditional’ aesthetic, freshened up for today’s young families.”
Cathy Kincaid
Embracing History
According to the Times Union: Design experts are calling for a return to good bones and restoring historical elements, embracing original architecture and creating solutions to updating a space without mass-produced, commercial items. “History is sexy,” said Brendan Flanigan of Brendan Flanigan Interiors. “Perhaps the prevalence of being indoors has us itching for romantic, historical architecture.”
With ongoing supply chain issues and inventory shortages still affecting many redesign projects, Lee Owens, principal of Lee Owen Designs, helps her clients explore purchasing vintage pieces rather than wait for mass-produced furniture with no clear estimated time of arrival. (via Times Union)
Veranda reports: “Our younger clients are more interested in buying antiques than ever before, and based on the supply-chain predictions we’re seeing now, I’m guessing this will only continue in 2022,” says Lilse McKenna. “I think one silver lining to the wild lead times we’re all seeing now is that we’re afforded a little more time to dig for those special pieces. Clients might also be a little more open to imperfections in their antiques, since ‘in stock and ready to ship (with a few scratches)’ is so much more appealing than ’26-week lead time (with the potential for another 26).'”
The Wall Street Journal reports: “Antiques are available and sold right off the floor,” enthused Sheldon Harte, of interior design firm Harte Brownlee in Laguna Beach, Calif., one of the many design pros we polled who said that shipping woes associated with new furniture have bolstered their appreciation of vintage pieces. Attic finds qualify, too. “Many clients are digging up family heirlooms and opting to use these in interesting ways,” said New York City designer Tina Ramchandani. “People are craving connections and history.” Alessandra Wood, design historian and VP of style at online design firm Modsy, called out early-American examples and their simple forms as particularly resurgent.
Forbes discusses the environmental benefits of antiques and vintage treasures: …there is no greener choice than going with vintage, explains Emma Kemper, Principal Designer of Emma Beryl, “Embracing vintage furniture pieces has so many benefits. It is sustainably responsible since you aren’t using resources to build a new piece of furniture, and from an aesthetic perspective, it is such a wonderful way to make your space feel timeless. When you include pieces that are from all different eras it’s impossible to date your space and the design feels unexpected and fresh.”
Another way to incorporate vintage pieces into your home is to scour places like Facebook Marketplace, Next Door, or Offer Up, continues Forbes. Many individuals also sell new or gently used furniture from mid-tier and high-end retailers. While these may not necessarily be vintage or antique, buying secondhand is always easier on the environment and the wallet. (Forbes)
Veranda: “Antiques and vintage will be celebrated as the ultimate ‘green’ resource available in the furniture sector and younger clients will become more fascinated with learning about collectable masters like Jean Prouve, Jacques Adnet, and Gio Ponti,” says Michael Cox, of Foley & Cox in New York.
House Beautiful reports: Not only is shopping vintage an efficient and sustainable option, it adds important personality to a space. “Homes should celebrate our uniqueness and furniture choices are an important part of that,” says designer Sara Hillery. “An old piece with great patina reflects a love and respect for history and story, just as a freshly painted antique shows a value of the past while also creating a colorful and playful environment.” And you can be sure none of your neighbors will own the same thing!
Michael Cox says that overall, he predicts the concepts of choosing quality over quantity will inspire design enthusiasts to educate themselves and be more willing to wait patiently for those pieces that they can surround themselves with for decades to come. (Veranda)
Good Housekeeping reports: The trend for 2022 is a return to lasting style. We are seeing the effects of our ‘buy it and throw it away’ consumerism on our planet, and I think people will realize that developing a personal, lasting style is not only beautiful and unique, but good for the environment as well,” said Kate Patterson, Perlmutter Freiwald.
Veranda reports: “After spending so much time scrolling through Instagram over the past two years, I think we are all tired of spaces that are void of personality or look like copies of spaces we’ve seen before,” says Lilse McKenna. “Highly personal spaces that reflect the lives and interests of the homeowners are the antidote to that kind of cookie-cutter design.”
According to Forbes: Rocky Rochon, Principal and Founder of Rocky Rochon Studio and The Paint Laboratorybelieves imperfection will start to trend in 2022. “What I see as going away is the idea of the sterile or one-dimensional white home environment, often seen as ‘perfection’. 2022 will bring more imperfection, which to me is a more soulful, natural environment, more personalized interiors that reflect the character of the inhabitants, not a pre-packaged idea of what a home should be,” he says.
Via Chairish: Focusing on lavishly detailed surfaces, plush textiles, heirloom accents, and fanciful artworks, this year’s report reflects the shift to the at-home lifestyle born during the pandemic. These days, designers are prioritizing comfort and clients’ personal style: Homes not only need to accommodate a number of different functions but also provide a sense of escape from the troubles of the outside world.
Bid adieu to boring and beige in 2022, says Forbes. More is more again. “Goodbye monochromatic neutrals and minimalist design,” says Roxy Owens Founder and Designer of Society Social. “Now more than ever we are seeing a return to cozy and warm interiors. Think beautifully layered spaces, a mix of prints, patterns, and colors, delicious wallpapers, textures, pleated and patterned lampshades as well as bespoke textiles.”
Good Housekeeping reports: In 2022, we’re going to see a lot of color and patterns, especially within window treatments. They play a key role within design because they are the jewelry of the room and can really make an impact. Whether it be drapery, shades or sheers, patterns with a burst of two to three colors will play a strong role in design next year.” — Martyn Lawrence Bullard for The Shade Store
Via Forbes: “Color is making a comeback and the world is ready for it! I haven’t stopped painting color walls in the last decade…” says Dallas-based interior designer Caitlin Wilson. “Classic colors and punchy paints can serve a great purpose in the right spaces and really make art and simple furniture pop. Pretty silhouettes and floral fabrics come to life with the right hue and can help to create a coordinated, proper space,” she says.
Chairish says: Designers previously wary of intricately patterned wallpapers and upholsteries may soon come around, thanks to a rising tide of nostalgic, flower-studded designs. Whether applied to wall-hangings, wallpaper, or even pillows, botanical imagery is ready to take over interiors.
Chauncey Boothby of Chauncey Boothby Interiors says mini print florals akin to the Laura Ashley textiles many of us grew up with will continue to see a resurgence in popularity while mixing retro-inspired colors and prints will also be a top trend. (via Veranda)
Lilse McKenna of Lilse McKenna Inc. in New York told Veranda: “I can remember a time when a floral print was a tough sell for some clients because it was too ‘old -fashioned’—and now we’re getting to layer different florals on the same piece of furniture. I’m hoping we will only see more appreciation for beautifully crafted textiles in 2022.”
Designer Shea McGee reports via Homes & Gardens: “I’m excited to lean into more romantic textures and prints like ruffles, scallops, floral patterns, and even fringe in the upcoming year,” Shea says. She adds that she will experiment with the trend ‘on everything from bedding to styling accessories.” It is perhaps unsurprising that romantic textures will have their moment next year. Chintz trend shows no signs of wavering – while fringe is evident in stylish schemes on both sides of the Atlantic.
As minimalism and mid century styles modern fall out of favor, we will be seeing more decorative touches like passementerie and trim in 2022, according to Roxy Owens. “The design world is seeing a resurgence of texture, tassels, trim, and passementerie galore. More and more people will be dressing up their homes and trimming their furnishings.” (Forbes)
According to Chairish, Comfort-seeking is the name of the game next year, according to the marketplace. That means textiles partout—think canopied, David Hicks–style beds, fabric-wrapped benches and headboards, and upholstery as far as the eye can see. Details will feature prominently on almost every surface, as demonstrated in the striking Milanese flat of Martina Mondadori and Ashley Hicks.
Better Homes & Gardens reports: Erin Coren of Curated Nest Interiors sees more fringe and decorative trim on the horizon. “Layers and textures are everywhere right now in fashion, and interior design is usually not far behind,” she says.
Penny Morrison
Wallpaper and Murals
Forbes says: Wallpaper has been a major trend in recent years and we will only see more of it in 2022. “Many have grown tired of their plain, neutral-colored walls and are looking to bring a sense of happiness and vibrancy to their interiors. This is especially true after the events of the last two years,” says Myriam Badault SVP of Decoration for Diptyque.
Forbes also reports: Murals have become a bold way to take wallpaper to an entirely different level. While this trend is rather popular for children’s rooms and nurseries because the average person is less afraid to take design risks in these spaces— we are also seeing more murals in living rooms and dens. They are a great way to tell a story through design.
Homes & Gardens highlights wallpaper inspired by distant lands: After true global travel disappeared, we turned to our homes for more inward adventures. For 2022, our walls will transport us to faraway lands filled with leafy palms and safari animals.
“Patterns of far-flung places provide a sense of escapism and make us feel relaxed as we are reminded of holidays,” says Johanna Bright, head of design at Osborne & Little. (Homes & Gardens)
“Distant landscapes and flora and fauna add a sense of drama to the wall and offer an alternative from the outside world, which we are all craving,” says Designers Guild’s Tricia Guild. (Homes & Gardens)
The Art of Tablescaping: Bring On the Silver, Crystal, and China!
via Daily Mail: A newfound appreciation for the emotional qualities behind every piece will spark joy as we find space for lovingly repurposed vintage pieces in our homes. Fine bone china, crystal and tablewares gilt with gold and silver grace our tables, similar to the tables our grandparents and their parents once sat down at. We’ve finally come full circle and embraced these unique treasures from the past.
via Martha Stewart: “People are going all out with over-the-top tables and are really enjoying the art of it,” explains entertaining expert Joanna Buchanan. “I think we are looking for a way to make a statement about style and what we have been missing.”
House & Garden UK reports: Both Nina Campbell and Gavin Houghton reckon on an increase in entertaining at home, and Penny Morrison is sure that the interest in table dressing is only going to grow, “with several sets of handmade plates and matching mats, tablecloths and candlesticks to ring the changes – it used to be much more of an American thing but is really catching on in the UK.”
Architectural Digest: It’s time to get lit, if you know what I mean… Not only are more people curating books for decoration (and their personal libraries), but they’re also building stairs and tables out of vintage books. Even if you’re not a hardcore bibliophile, the designer Sophie Collé reminds us that books are great tools to use as visual references. “I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m just flipping through the pictures, but that is such a great way of not going on Pinterest and learning a little bit about history,” she explains. “People have done the work of curating all of this information for us, so why not use it? Some book covers from the ’80s are art pieces, so I like having them out even just for that.” You heard it here first: Books are the new status symbol.
According to Dwell: With the continuation of hybrid and remote work into 2022, flexible live/work spaces that accommodate that needs of various generations under the same roof are paramount. “Owners are now wanting homes to be ideal places to not only live, but also places where they can work, where children can learn, and where multiple generations can live together…” said Cavin Costello, principal at The Ranch Mine. “The obvious spark that ignited this trend was COVID-19, but it has been ramping up for years,” Costello continues, pointing to improved technology enabling more people to work remotely, as well as multigenerational living arrangements resulting from high costs of housing and elder care.”
Architectural Digest says: “With more people spending time at home during the pandemic, many are starting to realize that the separation of space is useful. No one wants to be on competing Zooms in the same kitchen/living/dining room. Having distinct spaces also allows each zone to have its own character, and having everything connected can make a space feel too cavernous when you are not entertaining. Defined, intimate spaces that offer everyday coziness will start to take priority over the once-a-year giant party.” —Rachel Bullock,LAUN Los Angeles
Forbes: The pandemic solidified the need for separate rooms, especially when so many spaces need to double as home offices. For this reason, big kitchens that open up to the rest of the home are becoming less desirable. “I am definitely seeing a lot of enclosed kitchen spaces as opposed to large family room/kitchen areas that are open to the rest of the home,” says Christopher Peacock, Founder and CEO of Christopher Peacock.
Veranda – “With the advent of Zoom and more work being done at home, [clients] are asking for two fully functioning offices—one for each spouse or partner—where they can work and not be disrupted, or be disruptive to others in the family,” says Randy Correll of Robert A.M. Stern Architects in New York. “These rooms are like small libraries with and abundance of cabinetry, paneling and if possible, a view or a porch on which to take a break or power nap.”
Apartment Therapy: “While open concept design plans were a great idea a few years ago, we now know that privacy is a huge part of any design to accommodate the new challenges we are facing every day. Working from home while the children are attending school from the dining room table can make for a very eventful day at the office with an open concept floor plan. More and more, we are understanding that our homes must fit our lifestyle and be fully functional for years to come.” —Michelle Martel, designer and stylist in Montreal
Pattern is another unanimous call. New entry Brandon Schubert is confident of “more wallpaper, and pattern on pattern, as well as an emphasis on traditional curtain making – I think we’re going to see more people pushing the boundaries with pelmets, trimmings and general creativity.” Penny Morrison prophesies “brightly coloured floral fabrics, such as ‘Dahlia’ by Sarah Vanrenen, and woven stripes – as well as fabrics based on historical African or Anatolian tribes.” Gavin Houghton) seconds florals and stripes, “in strong colours,” as well as “classical prints – Jean Monro and Colefax.”
That concept of craft and handmade “will apply everywhere,” says Nina Campbell; “design is becoming much more personal, and much more unusual. No more catalogues!” Wendy Nicholls of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler defines it as “individualism.” Olivia Outred explains “We’ll start to celebrate the time it takes to make things, and the process that the maker goes through will become almost as important as the end finished piece.” (House & Garden UK)
Perhaps this helps explain the exponential rise in popularity of needlepoint here in the US?
The Glam Pad simply adores author and tastemaker Holly Holden, and when she recently started posting pictures on Instagram of her beautiful Palm Beach apartment, we couldn’t wait to take a look inside. Today, Holly has graciously invited us for a tour of her tropical getaway, Petite Fox, which also just so happens to be for sale!
Let’s take a peek… Welcome Holly!
Q: When did you buy Petite Fox, and what condition was it in when you purchased it?
A: Last October 2020, we stepped out of our Covid respite in Vermont and accepted an invitation to attend an event in South Florida with friends. My husband suggested we continue on to Palm Beach, knowing that I would love to have a place there someday! I had just debuted my Pearls of Palm Beach book, so I was thrilled to go. We stayed at the Breakers. While at the pool, Stuart pulled up the image of 300 S. Ocean Blvd – it was love at first sight! I called a friend who introduced me to Guy Clark – a designer and a wonderful real estate agent, and now a dear friend. He made appointments for me to see five places the next day – the first one was 300 South Ocean Blvd. That was it- I was immediately smitten!! A month later, we closed. It was the day before Thanksgiving… Talk about being thankful!
The moment I walked into the apartment, I felt it’s joyful “personality,” what I like to refer to as “old- school chic.” From the 9′ columns to the well appointed wood mouldings, faux mantelpiece, substantial fanwork inlay over the door to the den on the mirrored wall, along with a view of the ocean from the bedroom and from the both balconies on either side of the apartment, and even the kitchen designed with black walls and appliances, I adored it because it felt inviting. I think it is the perfect medley of architecture, where pretty Palm Beach meets classical New England!
Q: What renovations, decorations did you do, and what was your inspiration?
A: It was in fine shape – it just needed some Holly-fying! I had the living room walls and ceiling painted in my bespoke pink. Then, I had mirrors installed behind the dining room lattice work, hinting at a touch of glamour. The den/office, which we also use as a swing bedroom, had to be a “happy bubblegum pink” to contrast with the Stark zebra carpet and Baker black- bamboo appointed desk.
The master bedroom color was inspired by the Bob Collins & Sons, W. Palm Beach, fabric that I chose for the pull curtains and bed dust ruffle. The pastel sky blue on the walls and ceiling serves as a calm respite and enhances the view of the ocean.
The dining room salmon color was taken from the Clarence House printed linen. The black Venetian antique mirror complemented the black kitchen. We placed an Asian folding screen to visually separate the two rooms.
The charming front hallway has an arched door entering the Living room, and is mirrored on the right side above the chair rail. I had an artist paint 6” wide stripes in mint green and white on the remaining walls above the chair tail.
Other than that, we had a new AC system and a new hot water heater, installed to replace the existing units.
My inspiration came from the existing woodwork. I always strive to make an inviting abode for family and friends to enjoy, with a hint of elegance and a touch of old-school chic!
We love to entertain so the antique bar cabinet in the kitchen was a perfect accoutrement! I adore Chinese Chinoiserie, especially when it is intertwined with English antiques, a touch of Hollywood glamour, a few serious Chinese porcelains, and a sparkly antique Venetian mirror. These design details are representative of Palm Beach, which has a natural flair for an international lifestyle. This is also where modern contemporary art meets celebrated traditional art.
Q: How did your decorating decisions differ from your style at Fox Hall?
A: While many of the design aspects are similar, white painted wood floors and an abundance of white decorative accessories, naturally set the scene for Palm Beach.
The lighting could be slightly less formal too. Stuart and I replaced 21 candle-lit chandeliers at Fox Hall, our 1803 home in Farmington, CT (that’s a LOT of candles to light each night!) when we renovated it twenty years ago. So, besides choosing the paint colors for Petite Fox in Palm Beach, we immediately set out to find attractive light fixtures.
Venetian Murano glass light fixtures and mirrors are at home in Palm Beach, so I ordered a pink and green (my favorite color combination!) Murano glass chandelier for the front hallway and had it shipped from Italy and installed.
We purchased a glorious beautiful 20th century Lalique Chinoiserie inspired electrical light sconces for the bathroom, and a chandelier to complement them. We also installed a chandelier for the closet and one for the dining room.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Petite Fox?
A: The 1975 designed building has a splendid sense of “resort” with tree lined balconies. Walking from inside the elevator to your floor when the door opens up outside with a sunny balcony which runs the length of the building and overlooks the pool, Palm Beach, a slice of the ocean, and pink sunsets, is fabulous. The sweetest neighbors live in this building, and it will be hard to leave both, but our friendships shall remain, as we are only moving three blocks away.
The 9′ high ceilings are decadent- an aspect rarely found in apartments in Palm Beach. The generous size of the living room is perfect for entertaining!
Q: Do you have any favorite collections or treasures on display?
A: Traditional genre paintings are at home in Palm Beach, especially alongside modern works. We have a collection of Paul Maze‘s paintings. Paul was a close friend of the 11th Duke of Marlborough and his artwork is displayed inside Blenheim Palace. I filmed an episode of my PBS television series here with Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, who also wrote the Foreword to my Palm Beach book. It was at Blenheim that I was first introduced to Paul Maze’s artwork.
We also collect Chinese porcelains, which add an attractive dimension to walls when displaced on wall brackets. My father lived in Teinsin, China as a child and I lived in Taiwan as a child, so I am naturally attracted to Chinese porcelain and Chinoiserie inspired designs.
Q: What are your favorite things to do in Palm Beach? Restaurants, shops, museums/gardens, etc.
A: We visit Paris each year for a month, so one aspect we enjoy about living in the center of Palm Beach is walking to museums and to the many top notch restaurants, a ditto to Paris! Cafe Boulud, Cafe Europe, La Goulue are only one or two blocks walk. I walk our dog down Worth Avenue each morning, which is only three blocks away. (I think she enjoys window shopping as much as I do!)
We can walk two blocks to the stunning gardens of The Society of The Four Arts, the grounds of the Flagler Museum, and The Breakers Hotel. It is a walking town, from the beach across the street to walking along The Lake Trail, or over the bridge to West Palm Beach, it’s truly a slice of heaven to be located so centrally on “the island!”
Thank you, Holly, for that delightful tour!! What a perfect Palm Beach getaway!
Holly has since purchased another apartment on the island, which she is in the process of Holly-fying… Which means Petite Fox can be yours! Click here to learn more about the listing.
Every holiday season, Brian Branton brightens our Instagram accounts with a transformation of his circa 1808 Federal row house in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia into Christmas wonderland reminiscent of a bygone era. A lobbyist in Washington, D.C., Brian enjoys paying homage to home’s roots by decorating with natural elements such as evergreen clippings from his backyard and historically inspired fruit wreaths. Having grown up in a historic home in North Carolina, Brian also enjoys incorporating traditional Southern elements such as magnolia leaves and pineapples.
The Christmas dream home has been featured in Southern Living, Country Living, The Cottage Journal and more. Let’s take a peek inside with pictures from Brian’s Instagram from this Christmas and Christmases past…
Thank you, Brian, for sharing your Christmas joy! Please follow @brianbranton on Instagram for ongoing inspiration. Merry Christmas!
It is no secret here at The Glam Pad that we are needlepoint proponents. The historic pastime has made a roaring comeback in recent years ignited by “grandmillennials” paving the way through exuberant canvas designs and youthful spirit. One such grandmillennial, Rudy Saunders, has become the poster boy for all things needlepoint. An interior designer for the esteemed Dorothy Draper & Co., Rudy has needlepointed since childhood and has garnered a vast following showcasing his needlepoint creations.
On December 11th, needlepointers of all ages and skill levels came together in Emily Eerdmans’ storied art gallery for an afternoon stitch class with the inimitable designer himself. Eager to learn from the trailblazer, needlepointers poured into superbly decorated space. A fire blazed from the fireplace (yes, a working fireplace in New York!) filling the room with warmth. Stockings hung from the mantel and chatter filled the air creating a picture-perfect holiday scene.
Rudy recently developed a line of cheeky needlepoint canvases sold exclusively through Lycette further imprinting his spirited style onto the world of stitching. From canvases with phrases such as “Maid Wanted” and “Disposable Income” to Chippendale cummerbund, Rudy’s canvases evoke laughter, prep, and a dash of naughtiness.
Each guest received a kit outfitted with all the needlepoint necessities including Rudy’s Chippendale Fretwork Key Fob. Festive drinks were poured, and the stitching began. Rudy made his way around the room relaying his expertise, sparking conversation, and forging a sense of belonging amongst a group comprised of mostly beginners. It was not long until the group began to share tips and tricks forming a distinct sense of friendship within the room.
Emily Eerdmans, founder of Eerdmans gallery and the gracious host of the afternoon soiree joined in for the excitement as well. Newly acquainted with the hobby, Emily tried her hand at the fretwork canvas as well, quickly picking up the craft after a few short pointers from Rudy.
As the afternoon drummed on and the fire began to die down, a special guest made an appearance. In walks Emily’s puppy, Pompey the pug named after the Roman general circa 106 BC. Only 19-weeks old, Mr. Pompey wowed the crowd and melted hearts.
Rudy Saunders and Emily Eerdmans, two design forces to be reckoned with, finished the bash with each guest begging for more. A chic display of skill and cross-generational mingling revealed the true power of needlepoint. With the success of the event, the two anticipate future needlepoint gatherings and collaboration. Until then we wait with bated breath!
Carla Fonts Hrncir, owner of Dallas-based Dunbar Road Design, and her team are known for creating magical, one-of-a-kind interiors, and now with the Dunbar Road Holiday Collection, you can bring some of that magic into your very own home! This season, Carla and her team translated their signature design aesthetic into a curated line of wreaths and garlands inspired by the luxury travel destinations their clients love most. Whether it be the historic charm of Charleston, the rich southern ambiance of Oxford, the gilded age coastal chic of Palm Beach, the mountainous frontier grandeur of Telluride, or the Christmas spirit of the English Essex Bay, these collections embody the true sparkle of the season.
Today we are taking a peek inside Carla’s very own home for a glimpse of each gorgeous collection!
Which collection is your favorite? It is so hard to choose! To learn more, please visit the Dunbar Road Holiday Collection and follow @dunbarroad on Instagram. You can also take a video tour here.
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for that someone special on your list, or you are looking to decorate your home for the holidays with unique and heirloom-quality treasures, Scully & Scully has sourced and curated the best of the best for eight decades. With the changing times, it is so important to support our cherished family-owned business, including America’s luxury purveyor since 1934, Scully & Scully.
Originally owned by a married antique dealer couple, it is now owned by their son, Michael Scully, who has expanded the boutique to more than twice its size over the years. Adored by international and domestic heads of state and many, many celebrities, the store is curated to perfection. Located today in its original location on Park Avenue in Manhattan, today their exquisite treasures are offered online worldwide.
Scully & Scully travels the world year-after-year in search of vendors to represent. The store showcases the highest quality of items, including an extensive selection of home accessories such as tabletop, leather goods, home decor, furniture, and collectibles such as Austrian Bronzes and Herend figurines. In fact, Scully & Scully offers the largest selection of Herend porcelain figurines in the country, including many pieces available exclusively through them. They also offer a Bridal Registry, a Tabletop Consulting Service, and a Jewelry Department.
Below are a few more of The Glam Pad’s favorites! Please note, all inventory is updated as to availability online, so look for “In Stock – Ready to Ship” if you are in a rush for Christmas… and don’t forget Scully & Scully’s complimentary gift wrap!
Herend
Scully & Scully has the largest selection in the United States.
Complimentary gift wrap makes holiday shopping a breeze!
Scully & Scully is a family owned business established in 1934 on Park Avenue in New York City. Please visit their website to shop their gracious and timeless selections, and follow @scullyandscully on Instagram for ongoing inspiration.
There are certain homes that take your breath away, and today’s home tour – located in the Glenwood neighborhood of Raleigh, North Carolina – is a perfect example. Designers Katie O’Neal and Betsy Anderson of Betsy Anderson Interiors worked with the homeowners to create a family-friendly environment that incorporates a sophisticated color palette mixed with antiques and heirlooms. The design all started with the dining room wallpaper. “It was the very first thing I saw on that presentation table when we walked into our first design-review meeting, and I immediately fell in love with it. It became the springboard for the entire first floor,” said the homeowner.
Elegantly decorated for Christmas, we are excited to take a look inside!
To learn more, please visit Betsy Anderson Interiors and follow @betsyandersoninteriors on Instagram. And stay tuned, because The Glam Pad will be featuring more work by these wonderful designers soon!
