Icon

Edward Wormley: Midcentury Mix Master

“Modernism means freedom…freedom to mix, to choose, to change, to embrace the new but to hold fast to what is good.”

-Edward Wormley

Edward Wormley practiced this philosophy for over four decades as one of the most significant designers of the 20th century. Combining the finest materials with outstanding craftsmanship, Wormley’s designs quickly became iconic. He attended the Art Institute of Chicago and took his first job in the interior design studio of the Marshall Field & Company department store. In 1931 he was recruited by Dunbar and quickly became their Director of Design.

On Madison has assembled some beautiful examples of Edward Wormley’s designs. We can’t think of any better homage than to say his pieces are truly timeless.

 

 

Edward-Wormley furniture

From top to bottom, all vintage Edward Wormley: Dunbar Early Wing Chairs, Grey Oasis Sofa, Yellow Splayed Leg Ottoman, Dunbar Armchairs, Dunbar Chocolate colored Party Sofa, Dunbar Petite 2 drawer chest, Sculptural side table, Dunbar Wingback chair.

 

Quiet Luxury: Jean-Louis Deniot Interiors

Jean Louis Deniot InteriorsAs any of your who follow this blog know, I have a serious man crush on designer Jean Louis Deniot. I don’t use the word “swoon” lightly, but honestly, his work takes my breath away. So you know that I raced out to get my copy of Deniot’s latest tome Jean Louis Deniot Interiors which features some of his most stunning rooms.

Jean Louis Deniot Interiors Deniot is one of those rare designers who creates rooms that manage to achieve that high-wire balance of classic, modern, understated, yet impactful with narry a false note. Luxe materials, impeccable workmanship and sophisticated palettes are a hallmark of his work.

Jean Louis Deniot Interiors It was difficult whittling our favorite photos down to a few, but here they are.

Jean Louis Deniot Interiors Jean Louis Deniot Interiors Jean Louis Deniot Interiors Quiet luxury defined.

 

New Years Eve Dream List

I just finished “The Last Swan”, the memoirs of legendary beauty, hostess and design maven, Marella Agnelli.   From a prominent family, she married Gianni Agnelli, the heir to the fabulous Fiat fortune and was one of Truman Capote’s infamous “swans.” Reading her memoirs, and the fact that New Year’s Eve is right around the corner, I couldn’t help let my mind wander and fantasize about my dream guest list for my imaginary New Year’s Eve bash. Here is a partial list, in no particular order.

 New Years Eve

Diana Vreeland –   I have discussed her fabulousness many times in this blog. I could listen to her “Vreelandisms” all night long.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis – I confess that she still fascinates me.

Truman Capote – the ultimate party favor. Never boring.

Jean Louis Deniot – my current design crush.

Yves St. Laurent & Pierre Berge –   for tips on what to collect next.

Kelly Wearstler – brand building 101.

Jean Michel Frank – how is it that you were so ahead of it all?

Angelina Jolie – is she really that beautiful in person, or is it just good make-up?

Brad Pitt – is he really that handsome in person, or is it just good make-up? He also is a bit of an architect and designer himself.

Andy Warhol – how to make millions on elevating crass commercialism into high art.

Peter Marino – for all the dirt he could dish on his days at Andy Warhol’s factory.

Anna Wintour – after seeing “The Devil Wears Prada” I couldn’t possibly resist comparing her to the Meryl Streep character.

Coco Chanel – because you can never have enough Chanel.

Happy New Year! Wishing you a beautifully design-filled year.

 

1 3 4 5 6