According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary Chinoiserie (shēn-ˈwäz-rē), is, ” the fanciful interpretation of Chinese style in the designs of interiors, furniture, pottery, textiles and gardens.” Chinoiserie became popular in France and other areas of Europe in the 17th century. It is an Oriental design given a French aesthetic and it is wonderful. I have a…
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Design projects, ideas and inspiration from Victoria Dreste Designs.
The Warm Glow Of A Fireplace
Fireplaces are one of the highlights of winter. I’m not a cold weather person so, for me, there are few highlights but I do love the warm, welcoming glow of a blazing fire. This photo by Carla Coulson is of the home of Vicki Archer, author and blogger at French Essence. The room is beautiful…
Color Confidence
Color, isn’t it amazing? It can change how you feel, how you perceive. It is powerful when used to the extreme and powerful when it is barely used at all. For me, the use of color brings confidence. It should make you feel good. This vignette is color perfect. The light, soft neutrals are a…
More New Favorites
I have several client projects in various stages. The projects range from a client building a custom home to clients updating in time for the holidays. I have been researching furnishings for these projects and now have a new list of favorites, My first new favorite is this two drawer chest from Sarreid. It will…
The New Gold and How To Mix Your Metals
A gold tone as a finish has been out of vogue since the bright and shiny 80’s. Now it is back in a big way. I was a bit reluctant to embrace the return of the gold finish on metals but I’ve come around. The new version of gold is deep and rich and it…
Bar Carts
I am working on a project where the perfect element in a room just might be a bar cart. I love the way it looks in a room and the styling is as important as the cart itself. So here are a few carts I am considering. This vintage cart was found at 1st Dibs….
It’s All About The Lights
A new client project has me thinking about and finding beautiful light fixtures for her home. The project includes furniture, fabrics and rugs but for now, it’s all about the lights. The house has a two story entry so this 62″ high chandelier with crystal beads is the perfect fixture to lighten and brighten the…
Cafe Natasha: The Transformation
Cafe Natasha is a Persian restaurant located at 3200 S Grand in St Louis Mo. They have been at their South Grand location for several years. The food is great, the owners are charming but the interiors definitely needed an update. I was called in to help with design. The updated bar Before the updates….
Duncan Phyfe: The Traditional Side Of Mid Century Furniture
When we think of mid century furniture we see sleek, clean, modern pieces. Symmetry, balance, and restraint are elements in the design of modern furniture. Photo from Rocket Century. They are also elements in the traditional furniture that was used in the same time period. The 1940’s and 50’s saw the return in use and…
Friends Of Children’s Hospital Table Tops Spring Event St Louis MO
I recently participated in the Friends of Children’s Hospital Table Tops Spring Event in St Louis Mo. It was a great experience. Seven hundred people attended this lunch event at the Ritz Carlton in St Louis to raise money for Camp Rhythm, a camp for children who suffer from heart conditions.The creativity used to design the…
