El Encanto Santa Barbara

El Encanto Santa BarbaraWe just returned from a restful weekend in Santa Barbara. This has to be one of the most beautiful places in all of California and is my go-to place whenever I need a dose of that Old California Mission vibe. We stayed at the newly remodeled El Encanto, located in the hills above Santa Barbara and only a short distance from the Santa Barbara Mission.

Purchased by the Orient Express luxury hotel group, the El Encanto recently underwent a $130M renovation. Tastefully decorated by Cabana Home, a local design firm, El Encanto has been completely refurbished, adding an infinity pool and extra terrace dining space, the latter spot being the perfect place to take in the magnificent view. The renovation has remained sensitive to the original architecture while updating the furnishings with a more modern twist.

 
 

Palm Beach

Palm-Beach-2Just returned from three days in beautiful Palm Beach, Florida.  I had never been before, but had always salivated over the photos of the beautiful people and even more beautiful homes I’d seen in books and especially the work of the late photographer Slim Aarons, who captured the glamour of Palm Beach better than anyone.

Palm-Beach-Worth-Ave-gateIt’s every bit as fabulous as I thought it would be.  I must say, the drive along Ocean Boulevard is astounding.  Several miles of the most beautiful mansions with unobstructed views of the Atlantic.  One home more beautiful than the next.  If you are a fan of Mediterranean inspired homes, this place is for you.  Many of the homes were designed by the famed architect, Addison Meizner in the 1920’s.

Cafe-Boulud-Fourntain-Terrace-460x250Although the vintage shopping was a bit disappointing (everyone has 1st Dibs prices now), we did have some amazing food.  Most notable, was dinner Friday at Café Boulud, acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud’s Palm Beach outpost.  An elegant dining room tucked inside the Brazilian Court Hotel, the food and service proved memorable.  By the way, how refreshing it is that everyone actually dresses for dinner.  I miss that terribly in L.A.

Palm-Beach-Polo-matchShopping along Worth Avenue, it appears Palm Beach has caught the Great Gatsby bug.  Fashions feature lots of flapper inspired bling and the Brooks Brothers window just made you want to go out and watch a polo match or play a rousing game of cricket.

photos via New York Times & Luxury Travel Magazine

 
 

Rafael de Cardenas

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I hate to be a namedropper, but I’m loving the London apartment designed by Rafael de Cardenas in this month’s issue of Architectual Digest.

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He uses many of my favorite designers in the many vintage and custom pieces showcased. From the very chic Pierre Cardin table in the entry hall to the Herve van der Straeten stacked console paired with vintage Gilbert Rohde chairs and a Tommi Parzinger daybed (I’m proud to say I own one),  it’s always about the mix.

Rafael-de-Cardenas-1The gorgeous Karl Springer parchment dining table paired with vintage Grosfield House chairs shows why integrating choice vintage pieces in a space delivers a very couture interior indeed.

photos via Architectural Digest, May 2013

 
 

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