House of Slappy

On Second Thought...

2009-10-15T20:26:00.000-05:00

At $85, this one ain't too shabby...and it's in great condition. No cracks. Thoughts?!

Yay or Nay?

2009-10-15T19:58:00.000-05:00

I've been searching for a swag chandelier to put in our kitchen area above a tall pub table and just stumbled upon this potential purchase on Ebay...after less than five minutes of searching, this caught my eye. Should I pull the trigger or keep on truckin'?

Pro: $40

Con: The glass globe has a pretty large crack.

Must-Have Bubble Pendant

2009-10-08T20:23:00.000-05:00

Molecule-inspired bubble pendant light by Luc Gensollen. *Swoon*.

I Dunnooooo...

2009-10-07T22:48:00.000-05:00

The Bloom Lounge Chair, designed by Kenneth Cobonpue, is inspired by the graceful blossom of a flower, however; it reminds me of something completely different. The chair is sculpted by hundreds of fine running stitches radiating from the center of the seat creating a subtle textural feel. Come on, Kenneth, you couldn't have chosen a prettier color such as purple or fuschia or even a gorgeous ombre? You really thought flesh-colored screams 'graceful flower'? Really?!

These Tiles are Bananas

2009-10-05T18:54:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am channeling my inner Rachel Zoe when I say these tiles by Italian design firm Graniti Fiandre are 'Bananas'...

Kimber Modern

2009-09-30T22:28:00.001-05:00

This past weekend I went to a girlfriend's Mad Men themed bachelorette party at Kimber Modern, a chic and minimalist bed and breakfast off of South Congress Avenue. It was a swanky scene and mighty fine time...until our partay got shut d-o-w-n. Apparently the managers frown upon 11 women having a subdued evening in the courtyard. At 8:30 on a Saturday evening. On South Congress Avenue next to a live music venue! WTF? Anywhoo, below are some photos of the space and some lovely pics of moi and the ladies.

Unlike traditional hammocks, this one constructed with seat belts gave you a sense of security and there were no pesky hammock accidents.

My friend Kiah set up Mad Men-era drink stations with adorable drink recipe signs.

The lovely ladies and moi.

Oh, look! An Arne Jacobsen chair.

Oh, Look! Yours truly in an Arne Jacobsen chair.

Top 5 photos by Alison Zavos, the rest were taken by me.

Hello, 34!

2009-09-30T12:34:00.005-05:00

Today is my Birthday! ...and despite the fact I still have to spend all day at the office (instead of at Sephora) and my dear sweet hubby won't be able to share my special day with me today, I still feel like this on the inside...

Photo via coco+kelley

P.S.

2009-09-28T21:47:00.007-05:00

My birthday is this Wednesday...which one of you lovely readers would love to get me any one of these awesome prints by Chinese artist and comic illustrator Xiao Bai for my special day?!?! I'll love you long time.

Don't Judge a House by It's Non-Descript Exterior

2009-09-28T20:57:00.001-05:00

Hmmm...I've been naughty. It's been about two months since my last post and I completely forgot the name of the magazine from which I ripped these photographs. Whoops! That being said, these splendid images might not be new to some of you design devotees and I apologize for not sharing them sooner.

Floor to ceiling windows? Yes, please!!

I'm j'ador-ing the color palatte here and don't even get me started on how much I dig that floor lamp.

Yeaaaah, those bar stools aren't cutting the mustard.

Welcome to my backyard, ain't she sweet?

The jury is still out on this wallpaper...I definitly would have gone a silver metallic route.

I wouldn't kick this setup out of my bedroom...

Let's see...fuscia colored sand encased in clear lucite to make a writing desk. Oh, hells yeah.

If I were about to give birth to a little baby girl instead of a boy in a few months, you'd better believe this is how her nursury would be decorated. Except there would be a white crib instead of the bunk beds, of course. Duh.

And finally, a cozy outdoor space where many a bottle of wine would be consumed...

Sequin Lovin'

2009-07-08T22:21:00.009-05:00

Oh. My. God.

I know House of Slappy typically doesn't do fashion posts, yada yada yada, but it's my blog and the only other thing besides sushi from Uchi, sinful chocolate and incredible wine I absolutely cannot resist is freakin' sequins! I think I just found my long lost twin (except for the fact she might actually be wealthy and I'm Bedazzling a cardboard belt). Not to mention these lovley sequin pants got me out of my week-long posting funk. Hmmm...might be time to put my new Project Runway edition sewing machine to work with which my awesome hubby recently surprised me!

Oh yeah - I need these shoes, too.

via coco+kelley

Guest Post: 7 Design Essentials

2009-06-26T12:00:00.017-05:00

Hi Everyone, this is Crystal and I blog over at Plush Palate. I'm so excited to be part of House of Slappy as a guest blogger today and to meet all of you! Andrea asked me to do an interior design post, so I thought I'd start with the basics. So, here's a look at the 7 essentials of my design philosophy...

1. Splashes of Color: Color can be intimidating but the good news is you can easily experiment with accent pieces (like throw pillows and ottomans). Then, when your mood changes , you can switch them out with new ones (I'm always redoing the color palette of my apartment!). This is the easiest way to create an instant visual stimulations!

2. Look At Me Pieces: Every room should have at least one unexpected, attention grabbing piece. This is what sets an average room apart from a fabulous room! Don't you just love walking into a space that leaves you floored with surprise? The oversized wall medallion in this Jay Jeffers designed living room does just that.

3. Fresh Flowers: It's been said a thousand times before, but fresh flowers really do make all the difference in a room (please no artificial ones!). They bring the outside in, are already perfectly designed by natural, and quickly bring life to any space.

4. Mixing Styles & Eras: Nothing says modern day designer like the ability (and confidence) to mix design styles and eras. This keeps a space interesting and unpredictable. The key is to make sure there's a common element that ties it all together and keeps the look congruent (like a color palette or clean lines). I love how the designer here mixes mid-century modern chairs with a contemporary table on the left, and modern Barcelona chairs with a traditional wood table on the right.

5. Drapery: Oftentimes people overlook drapery to save money or because they simply don't think they're important to the design process. But drapery truly is the finishing touch to any room. It's like the jewelry you wear to complete the outfit, the frosting on the cake, and the bow on top of the present. It helps visually tidy up a space and makes it complete.

6. Embracing White: Oh how I love white! I'm just so drawn to the pure, clean, and fresh feeling the color evokes. That's probably why all my dishes, towels, sheets, and even my couches are white. I believe every home should have at least one white space to retreat to and escape from all stimulation and stress of the day.

7. Layers of Texture: As we all know, design is in the details. And perhaps the detail that is most important of all in creating a warm and inviting space is texture. I love the way designer Darryl Carter has a floor rug on top of the carpet showing that you can never have too many layers. And on the right, the designer mixes elements like a plush carpet, cotton throw blanket and wood to create different tactile experiences. Simply Delicious :)

Happy Friday everyone! Love, Crystal

*Sources from top to bottom, left to right: Michael Robinson Photography, James Merrell, Jay Jeffers Design Group, flowers via Carolyn Barber Photography, James Tse Photography, left drapery via coco+kelley, right drapery and whites via Reed Davis Photography, bottom left via Elle Decor, bottom right via James Tse Photography

Not Fair!

2009-06-25T17:15:00.001-05:00

Good news: I'm SO excited! After months and months searching for a swag chandelier to hang above the pub table in the kitchen, I finally found one I love!

Bad news: It's freakin' $2,900. Whhhhyyyy do you people do this to me?!?

Well, any of these will do, too. Only $485?!?!

Note to self: Confront parents a.s.a.p. as to why I don't have a trust fund.

Via Pieces, Inc.

More good news: Special guest Blogger tomorrow. Woo Hoo!!

Home Sweet Home!

2009-06-23T15:08:00.005-05:00

Helloooo! I'm back in Austin - well, we actually arrived yesterday afternoon (we were supposed to have gotten home Saturday afternoon) and I was so dead to the world I barely had the energy to watch my TRH of New Jersey from last week. After 3 days of flight delays, bad weather and cancellations, it only took 3 days longer than expected to get home. Good times! Thank bejeezus for First Class seats and free flowing wine!

Here's some eye candy while I continue to wash the funky airport smells out of my hair and recuperate from our journey...

Molori Safari Lodge, South Africa

Maine Bound!

2009-06-17T03:23:00.000-05:00

Well kids, the Mr. and I are off to Maine ear-ly this morning. And by early I mean by the time you are reading this we have somehow managed to get our butts out of bed by 3am. That's right. I don't even remember the last time I had to go to sleep before 9pm. And most importantly, I went to bed so early I had miss tonight's season finale of TRHW of New Jersey!! Ugh, I don't know if I can make it until Saturday to watch it...

Anyway, its not really a "vacation" in the traditional sense, since we are going there for his Grandmother's memorial service (she passed away last year and this was the best opportunity for a bunch of his family members to all get together). I have, however; always wanted to go to Maine and I'm sure it will be a very beautiful, somber and peaceful trip.

I've managed to find a few incredible photos of our hotel room and I do have to say, I don't know if seafood and exploring Maine will be enough to get me to want to leave the hotel...

Now this is what I'm talking about. Except, in reality there would be Cabernet in those wine glasses.

After we feast on fresh seafood and bottles of wine, we can chill in our cozy little bedroom.

And in the morning, walk down for a river-side brunch with Bloody Marys and/or Mimosas with freshly squeezed OJ.

And then get massages in the fresh air and warmth of the beautiful sunlight...

JUST KIDDING! I wish! This is where we're really staying. The finest Best Western Bucksport, Maine has to offer... No, seriously - this is THE best hotel there.

Woo Hoo!! Gotta love that shiny comforter. Better believe I'm bringing a pair of surgical gloves to peel that germicidal comforter off the bed! Wow, I sure do hope that T.V. is in color and converted to digital by now.

Did you say 'Outdated Hideous Brass Bed Frame?" My favorite...don't get too envious of me!

At least we'll have a waterfront view, right?

See all of you wonderful readers next week. Hope you all enjoy the rest of the week and have a great (and under 100 degree weather) weekend. And I'm SO excited for next Friday when a special Guest Blogger will be stopping by House of Slappy!

P.S. My imaginary hotel is really the Mystique hotel in Santorini, Greece :)

Sexy Wood

2009-06-16T09:36:00.029-05:00

Yesterday's post on the fantastically talented design collective, Pirwi, got me wondering about what else is out there in the wild world of organic furniture. Whew! Turns out there is a hot little company named Hudson Furniture, Inc. and man is their stuff super sexxxxxxx-y! Case in point: the table below. Wood + Gold = Hot. And that chandelier? Holy Shit!

According to Barlas Baylar, Hudson's founder and designer, "None of the woods we use are harvested from old growth forests. Our wood slabs are domestically sourced from either salvaged trees or wind/storm damaged trees. The trees have an average life span of 250-300 years. When these trees die, they gradually do so from the crest to the roots. The farmers or the tree owners thus have to remove these trees as they might cause damage to houses, other trees or outlying areas. We integrate various wood species into our designs to produce unique works of art."

All of the furniture is available in custom dimensions, custom finishes and a variety of wood species such as Claro Walnut, Black Walnut, Myrtle, Jasmine, Acacia, Satinwood and Ebonized Pine.

What's that you say? You wish you could see a close-up of that amazing chandelier with nickel trim? Ask and ye shall receive.

Solid Walnut Coffee Table with Plexiglass Base

Organic Teak Root with Plexiglass Top

The Rock - Bronze End Table

And to conclude our lovely organic tour, I like to call this the "This Is Where The Magic Happens" section. Check out these sleek custom designed beds...

Walnut Bed

Crazy for Pirwi!

2009-06-15T14:25:00.002-05:00

Late last week I had the pleasure of attending Kirk's preview of its newest addition to the super-stylish family, Pirwi, a Mexico City-based furniture company that operates under sustainable practices. According to their website, "the company was founded by two industrial designers, Emiliano Godoy and Alejandro Castro; and launched an initial product line in March 2007. Today, the collection includes over 60 objects by 12 designers, and features award-winning pieces as well as designs now considered classics of Mexican design".

What made my night though, was meeting and speaking to designer Godoy, who has been working in sustainable design for several years. Godoy is in charge of the creative direction of the company. Lemme tell you, he is as charming as he is talented and ladies and gentlemen, I have a new Latin crush!

Pirwi’s catalog showcases stylish and contemporary pieces that are not only green, but that also offer an interesting aesthetic proposal. Besides the creation of environmentally compatible products, Pirwi utilizes socially fare labor practices setting itself at the forefront of the sustainable furniture industry. Wait, it gets better. In addition to all of that, a lot of their pieces are pretty affordable. Pirwi is sold exclusively in the U.S. at Kirk, so make sure to check it out. A few photos of some of my favorite pieces, although the real pieces are much more beautiful in person!

Neon Fever

2009-06-10T09:56:00.001-05:00

Hmmm...not sure what it is lately, but I'm feeling especially saucy today. I say we get kicky with it and ditch the boring house stuff for a day. Can we please get some neon up in here?

It would be plain wrong to not start this post with the little man with the big voice whose ahhh-mazing album sleeve (that's right, I said album) sparked off my love affair with neon and inspired me to paint my 'teen bedroom purple. Thanks, mom and dad!

Whew! It's gettin' hot in here already. Please, please, please tell me you at one time owned Prince's album, 1999.

I want this in my house. Reeaalll bad. Image via 2008 'Top Design' winner hottie, Nathan Thomas', interior design company portfolio.

Moving right along, we have a few fine pieces of my favorite British feminist artist/bad girl Tracey Emin.

You Forgot to Kiss My Soul,Tracey Emin, 2001

Kiss me, kiss me, cover my body in love,Tracey Emin, 1996

Everything for Love, Tracey Emin, 2005

Yours truly at a Dan Flavin installation at the Chinati Foundation in Marfa, Texas and my friends hamming it up below.

Fabulous neon art via The Anemix

Lite Bright Neon Studio

Lite Brite Neon Studio

Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, Texas. And here.

Radisson Hotel Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa

Seattle Public Library

I don't remember where this image is from, but I do know it's the naughtiest escalator I've ever seen. Saucy!

2009 Austin Homes Tour Announced

2009-06-09T14:14:00.012-05:00

The 24th Annual Homes Tour will take place on October 10-11, 2009 from 12 Noon - 6PM.

Presented by AIA Austin (the Austin Chapter of the American Institute of Architects), the self-guided Tour is one of the most popular fall weekend events in Central Texas, and AIA Austin’s most dynamic community outreach program.

To submit a home for the 2009 Homes Tour, please visit the AIA Austin.

A few photos from the 2008 Homes Tour below:

Anthony Alofsin

Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects

9 square studio

Simple Beauty

2009-06-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

Photo by Rees Roberts

Ochs Design

Loft Bible

BSC Architecture

Photo by Jan Bitter

Photo by Francesca Giovanelli

NY Interior, Taschen

Loadingdock5 Architecture

Clifford Welch, Dallas Architect, Professional Bad-Ass

2009-06-08T12:25:00.000-05:00

A dear couple friend of mine who live in Dallas, Texas recently met with a really talented architect, Clifford Welch, to discuss building their future dream home. Below are a few photos from his residential portfolio.

And I nearly died when I learned Welch also designed this house in White Rock neighborhood of Dallas I fell in love with a few years ago...

Morris Lapidus. Yummy.

2009-06-05T18:34:00.022-05:00

Photos via WSJ. Do yourself a favor and check out the photos in the slideshow.

Stop the presses! Just when I gave up hope on scouring the www for additional images for you guys, Mlle Raina just sent me a magical link with these splendid images. Eeeeeeeee! (My excited squeal). Raina, you rock HARDER than Kip Winger!

More eye candy can be found here.

Moving and Shaking

2009-06-03T23:23:00.000-05:00

Oooops, sorry peeps - I've been M.I.A. since Tuesday morning which seems like forever to me! I haven't been ignoring you, I promise, just have been networking like a mad-woman lately. BELIEVE you me, I'd much rather spend my free time hanging out with you doing cool fun things like this...

Photo by Terry Richardson (I heart you.)

Verner Panton

2009-06-02T00:01:00.002-05:00

Looking for something with which to kick-start your morning? These psychedelic vintage shots of interiors by Vernor Panton should do the trick.

MCM Mondays - Erwin Olaf

2009-06-01T10:10:00.000-05:00

I had the happy fortune of being turned on to the work of incredibly talented photographer Erwin Olaf a while back via another talented lady photographer and blog friend, Erin, of Design Crisis. In his series, GRIEF, it is as if "everything stops before the music starts."

"These are enigmatic narratives and portraits, mostly of women, caught in private moments. The décor, the hairstyles, the clothes, and the affect all reference the early 1960’s in the US. The color palette further underscores this. Like his earlier work, these images are carefully staged in studio settings. This is not reportage. GRIEF is the last episode in the series following RAIN and HOPE which were called "mysterious and touching" by Ken Johnson writing for The New York Times.

The models here seem caught in intensely private moments of reflection or indecision. Up close it appears that some of them have been crying. The reason for these tears is never explicit. Similarly the colors are slightly drained. The images almost seem intended for a slick lifestyle editorial portfolio, but instead they are unexpectedly moody and haunting. The impact is unsettling. The artist has been influenced by the styles of the early years of the John F. Kennedy White House and inspired by the social change of the 60’s. A specific inspiration was a well-known 1961 Mark Shaw portrait of Jackie Kennedy. Although a small child in the 1960’s, Olaf has a powerful early memory of both Kennedys. He is now struck by the seeming globalization of the world, the rise of feminism and the middle class, and in particular, the pervasive influence of TV..." [Via Hasted Hunt]

Faux-cation

2009-05-30T21:05:00.002-05:00

Hope you all are having a fabulous weekend so far. In my mind, I'm currently at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs with my girlfriends. The weekend isn't over yet and it's not too late to join us; just make sure to bring more Prosecco, mmmmmk? Who's in?

...and of course I can't mention the Ace Hotel without giving a shout-out to the room in the Portland, Oregon location which started my love affair with the hotel. What do you guys think the chances are of the Mr. allowing me to have this mural pained on our theater room wall?

Parisian Perfection

2009-05-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

If I were little again, my parents were cool art collectors and we lived in Paris, this would be our crib.

Photos via Dwell

Cameron's "Ferris Day Bueller's Day Off" House for Sale

2009-05-27T16:22:00.000-05:00

Which one of you peeps truly, truly, l-o-v-e-s me and has an extra $2.3 million you can loan me, I mean, *cough* give me so I can purchase this home in Highland Park, Illinois featured in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off"? I know how humble some of you are, so to avoid you feeling any awkwardness, rest assured you can simply send me an anonymous donation and it'll be our special little secret. It's all good in the millionaire hood!

In the film, the home belonged to Bueller's best friend Cameron Frye's father and housed a tempting red 1961 Ferrari 250 GTO that Bueller and Frye took for an iconic joyride through Chicago. Remember the famous crash scene when the Ferrari is pushed out into the ravine?

According to the listing agent, Melodee Hughes, the filmmakers had to set up a rail in the pavilion, which is behind the main house, to roll the car out. Fiberglass versions of the Ferrari were used but they didn't smoke when crashed so smoke bombs had to be used.

The home is known as the 'Ben Rose Home' was designed by architects A. James Speyer and David Haid. It has been owned by Rose since it was built in 1953 and is also known as the Ben Rose Auto Museum. Rose died in 2004 and his wife Francis lived there with a caregiver until her death earlier this year.

The contemporary home has four bedrooms and is 5,300 square feet. The garage is also an art showcase for modern pieces as well as vintage cars. There is a separate two-car garage for cars that are driven on a more regular basis. The property is listed as being sold as is with no disclosures and likely needs some renovations and is listed at $2.3 million. [via TMZ]

Photos via Sotheby's Realty

Trailer Flash

2009-05-26T21:18:00.002-05:00

I scream, you scream, we all scream for Airstream! Ever feel like packing up the bags, kidnapping the sweetie in your life, including Toto and Tito's (and no, Tito is not Toto's sibling, but rather vodka made and distilled in Austin, for all you non-Texans) and hitting the road Clark Grizzwald style? If I did have a chance to get away, you know it wouldn't be in a janky station wagon with Aunt Edna strapped to the roof; it would be in one of these stylish bad boys.

Case in point: Design Within Reach, the furniture retailer, collaborated with Airstream in 2007 to develop a trailer for the mobile young modernist. Hi, that's me!! It also has a separate bedroom, a flat-screen TV, an antenna and phone jacks. The 16-foot trailer retailed for $49,066 (not sure what it costs today).

The DWR features Airstream's "famously sleek aluminum skin design and custom pull-out awning."

The trailer has kitchen cabinets lined with green plastic laminate, a Nelson Ball Clock and a dinette with cushions upholstered in striped fabric by Paul Smith, the fashion designer, which doubles as a bed (the table slides down to align with the seats and the cushions serve as a mattress).

Jewelry designer Kristiana Spaulding's Airstream

Photo by Cody Cloud and Julia Galdo

Food Shark, Marfa, Texas

And last but not least, check out this awesome park by two former circus performers who have created a rare and unusual Airstream trailer park, Belrepayre Airstream Trailer Park, with outstanding views of the mountains, in the foothills of the Pyrénées near Mirepoix, a historic town in southern France between Carcassonne and Foix.

Available on a self-catering basis, there’s a choice of nine authentic Airstreams from the Fifties, Sixties and Seventies, each furnished in period style with shag pile, disco balls and vinyl 45s to help you indulge in the atmosphere of the era. Rumor has it they're not down with the Disco era and will turn away trailers post 1970.

Isn't it fabulous and doesn't it look like it's straight out of John Waters' Pink Flamingos?!

MCM Home for Lease in Austin, TX

2009-05-20T22:46:00.000-05:00

6019 Belfast Austin, Texas 78723

Home for Lease ($2,000/mo)

Mid-century modern stunner remodeled by Vintage Modern Homes on a 12,199 sq. ft. lot near the Mueller development. The newly renovated 1,735 sq. ft (per agent) home is a 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 living, including a large office (or a 4th bedroom) and stone fireplace. Gourmet Kitchen; Glass tile Baths; updated plumbing and many green features, including refurbished windows; new low voltage recessed lighting in the kitchen, living room and office; new French drain and updated electrical throughout the house!

Please contact Andrea Roe for inquiries/questions - 512.502.4992

Custom hexagon details on the front of the house and extend into the ample and lush backyard.

New customizable Ikea kitchen cabinets with under cabinet lighting.

Master Bath detail, including raised platform shower and river rock floors.

Beautiful glass tiles, modern storage and designer hardware.

Spacious living area, including an open floor-plan. Polished concrete floors throughout the house.

Flexible office space has a vaulted ceiling and beautiful natural light. Check out the sweet floor!

New stainless appliances and custom-designed glass tile back-splash.

Simple Beauty

2009-05-20T19:08:00.000-05:00

Photo by Stephen Shore

Room 316, Howard Johnson

Battle Creek, Michigan

July 6, 1973

Craving Decadence..ASAP.

2009-05-20T00:06:00.002-05:00

One would think with the whole 'recession' thing going on and girlfriend being sans salaried day job (save for my fortunate foray into real estate) I would be stock piling packages of Top Ramen like a mad woman and thinking of clever ways to make stylish belts out of cardboard. Quite contraire. For some reason I cannot stop hearing Robin Leach whispering in my ear "Champagne wishes and caviar dreams!"

What I wouldn't give for those gold lace printed lamps. Photos via Cattelan Italia. Damn those Italianos and their sexy ways...

Ray of Light

2009-05-18T22:46:00.001-05:00

Here is my attempt at getting back into the swing of things. This past Friday I got laid-off, fired, let go, whatever...from my job of three years. Hence the lack of MCM Mondays post today. It sucks. The only thing that's worse than not having a job is looking for a job. Needless to say I'm working my way up to being my usual awesome self, so bare with me people.

In the meantime, these make me happy. Last month Diesel launched its first ever Living collection, which is set to reinvigorate it's already thriving brand which includes denim, accessories, fragrance and the recently added home textiles range. Here.

MCM Furniture Friday - Harry Bertoia

2009-05-15T07:44:00.000-05:00

Italian sculptor, university lecturer and furniture designer Harry Bertoia displayed a unique stroke of genius with his patented Diamond Chair for Knoll International in 1952. Bertoia was an inventor of form and an enricher of furniture design with his introduction of a new material: he turned industrial wire rods into a design icon. Educated at Detroit Technical High School, the Detroit School of Arts and Crafts and Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Bertoia taught metal crafts at Cranbrook. He worked with Charles Eames to develop his signature molded plywood chairs. Eero Saarinen commissioned him to design a metal sculptured screen for the General Motors Technical Center in Detroit. His awards include the craftsmanship medal from the American Institute of Architects, as well as AIA’s Gold Medal.

Baby Hairy Bertoia via Genius Jones

Trivia: Bertoia was the sculptor commissioned to create the Marshall University fountain in Huntington, West Virginia, to honor the university's football team in the wake of the plane crash that killed them on November 14, 1970.

He had a son and two daughters, a grandson and two granddaughters, and two great grandsons so far. Half of his offspring are artistic.

Cool Pools

2009-05-12T00:37:00.001-05:00

Living in Texas and inching towards June means just one thing...it's getting freakin' HOT outside, people!

I'm very fortunate to have the ability to work from home, away from the confines of an office with fluorescent overhead lighting and not having to step foot inside of a 100 degree plus car rocks pretty hard as well. I am, however; faced with the challenging task of staying focused on work instead of staring out into the backyard daydreaming about where the pool will go one day and how cute it will be. To make matters worse, I get to hear the neighbors' kids across Shoal Creek enjoy their new pool and learn the rules are associated with each of their water games.

View from the dining room table at which I work. Look at that yard, just begging for a cool pool! Even my cat Boone is longing for one...

Since we're talking pools, which style of pool speaks to you?

Grandiose a la Hearst Castle?

Hearst Castle Neptune Pool

Hearst Castle Indoor Pool

Elevated?

Hemerescopium House

Poolside lounging at a hotel?

Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, Texas in the daytime...

...and at night. Bonus points for the neon sign!

Do you prefer a pool in an urban landscape?

Elle Decor

Round, private and wooded?

Dwell

Or a pool on lava from an active volcano?

Robert Trickey House, Big Island, Hawaii

How about chic and stylish?

Or are you like me and prefer simple and minimalist, like these babies?

Above, quite possibly my dream pool.

Elle Decor

No, wait! This one above. This is my dream pool.

Casa Kimball, Dominican Republic

Elle Decor

Austin Towers, Texas

Santa Ynez, California

Alila Ubud, Bali

So, which one will it be this summer?

MCM Mondays - Frank Lloyd Wright

2009-05-11T07:54:00.000-05:00

June 8, 1867-April 9, 1959

"A brilliant psychologist, Frank Lloyd Wright, became the spokeman for American architecture around the world. He understood human needs and administered to them through his work. Above all he sought repose, a restful environment free of tension which catered to the mental health and happiness of the indweller. Born in Richland Center, Wisconsin, in 1890, Wright not only influenced this area with his Prairie Style architecture, but expanded to Los Angeles, Phoenix, New York, and eventually beyond the boundaries of the United States.

Wright conceived of the interior space in terms of rooms overlapping and interpenetrating--often at the corners. Use areas were defined by screening devices and subtle changes in ceiling heights. For Wright, spaces were defined rather than enclosed, and use was relative to the individual rather than absolute.

Until the outbreak of war in 1914, Wright continually evolved the prairie house toward greater abstraction in Oak Park, near Chicago. Roofs and balconies gradually became flat, hovering slabs, and a geometric interplay between verticals and horizontals replaced an emphasis upon wall. Even his non-residential work reflected this development: the Larkin Administration Building and Unity Temple reiterated geometric shapes and the uselessness of a visible roof.

In the 1920s in Los Angeles, Wright continued to develop his architectural vocabulary with cast blocks of concrete. Especially of note are the residences known as the Hollyhock House for Adine Barnsdall, the Freeman House, and the Ennis-Brown House in Griffith Park. Each house has its own distinctive signature block design, a natural form reduced to pure geometry.

In 1936 he designed and built both Fallingwater in Connecticut and the Johnson Administration building. Near Phoenix, Arizona, he built Taliesin West as a winter retreat. His last project during his long and illustrious life was the Guggenheim Museum in Manhattan. A circular spiral of a building, the Guggenheim became an icon of New York architecture." via La Obscura.

Fallingwater

Interior of Fallingwater

The Massaro House, designed in 1950 at the age of 83 by Wright, is not quite as famous as the Fallingwater House but is a bit of controversial in the fact Wright never completed it before his death. According to this great article in NY Times Magazine, "In 1950, at 83, Frank Lloyd Wright designed a house for a private island on Lake Mahopac, about 50 miles north of New York City. He dreamed it might surpass Fallingwater, his 1935 masterpiece—but then the client ran short of funds, and the house was shelved for almost 50 years..." Eventually a local born sheet metal magnate, Joseph Massaro, set out to complete the house despite numerous obstacles and opposition. The Wright Foundation today does not recognize the Massaro house as one of Wright's accomplishments.

Wright’s design uses his typical juxtaposition of straight,low lines and sharp angles atop the tumbling rocks and reflective lake.

Layers of granite form the walls of the main bedroom; the triangle-hexagon pattern is repeated in the oxblood poured-concrete floor.

View from the main living room.

Photos by David Allee

And finally, the The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, which opened on October 21, 1959, is Lloyd's crowning achievement and one of the 20th century's most important architectural landmarks.

Photo by Carol M. Highsmith

Photo by Jim M. Goldstein

Happy Friday!

2009-05-08T08:24:00.003-05:00

Sooo sorry for the absence of my 'Furniture Fridays' post today - this week honestly got away from me; how did it become Friday so quickly? Promise I'll make up for it next week. Hope you have a fab weekend!

"Don't Stop Believing..."

2009-05-07T08:02:00.003-05:00

If you are as astute as I think you are, you're probably asking yourselves what the title of this post has to do with pictures of this lil' ole house in Pennsylvania. Well...as I was planting peppers in the garden like a mad-woman this past weekend, I happened to walk past the t.v. and airing was the last episode of The Sopranos (normally I would have walked right on by because I do not agree with mafia vernacular being censored - if you know what the f* I'm talking about.)

However, if you are (or were) a Sopranos fan, then you should know the last episode is quite special in it's own right. Not only was it memorable because of the suspenseful ending, Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" was playing in the tense restaurant scene and thus serves as inspiration for today's post. Journey!! I don't care how many millions of times I hear that song I still get chills.

Now, I know the decor of this 1962 house doesn't quite go hand in hand with the lovely design trends of 1981, which is when 'Don't Stop Believing' was released, but whatever...cut me some slack people.

Who says you can't mix mid-century modernism with an airbrushed Mexican movie poster?

...even this sweet Conan The barbarian poster is in Spanish. Nice.

Let's just quickly skip over this unfortunate living room...save for the Magnus Olesen couch and matching armchairs.

I'm still trying to jedi-mind trick the Mr. into thinking an egg chair of some sorts really is a good idea for our theater room. And that Italian arc lamp? Oh, that WILL be going in the theater room, Mr.

Photos by JWSamson.

And finally, a super-cute breakfast nook with an Eames folding table, Cuban political posters and Kartell and Dansk plastic kitchenware. And I'm digging that large Op-Art piece!

What is YOUR favorite Journey song or memory associated with Journey?

Ashe and Leandro

2009-05-05T08:27:00.000-05:00

I never get tired looking at these great interriors by ASHE + LEANDRO, an architecture and interior design practice located in New York City, dedicated to creating spaces that innovate and inspire.

..and even though though this room is not designed by Ashe + Leandro, I thought it worthy of being considered in the cool club.

Photo by Petra Bindel.

MCM Mondays - Pierre Koenig

2009-05-04T07:30:00.001-05:00

Pierre Koenig, 1925-2004. R.I.P., talented cool dude.

"The architecture of Pierre Koenig, FAIA, demonstrates a simple elegance derived from a design process that melds plan, structure and nature into a holistic experience. With the use of steel and glass he has evolved fresh and exciting solutions to some difficult aesthetic and structural problems.

His first exposed steel and glass house, completed in 1950 while still a student at USC, launched him on a career that has earned him international recognition for numerous innovative buildings. When Arts and Architecture magazine was seeking inventive architects for their Case Study Houses, they chose Koenig to design two of them, Case Study House 21 and Case Study House 22.

Over the years Case Study House 22 has become an iconic symbol of Southern California living. It is a spectacular house soaring above the city below, with long cantilevered roof and floor overhangs that extend the viewer's line of vision to the distant ocean and the horizon beyond. Case Study House 21 exemplifies a meticulous coordination between plan, structure and detail. The landscaping, designed by Koenig, is composed of water, brick and gravel to extend the horizontal planes of the house. In 1989 the Museum of Modern Art (MOCA) in Los Angeles constructed on-site at the Temporary Contemporary a full scale walk-through model of CSH 22 for the exhibit titled "Blueprints for Modern Living."

Pierre Koenig's work has been published throughout the world. Recent honors include the 1996 AIACC Lifetime Award and the AIACC 25 Year Award, the Pacific Design Center Lifetime Achievement Award and the University of Southern California School of Architecture Outstanding Alumni of the Year Award. The first monograph devoted to his architectural career will be published this Spring by Phaidon Press." Via La Obscura.

The Case Study House #22, more popularly known as the Stahl House, is Koenig's most well-known work located on 1636 Woods Drive, Los Angeles. West Coast's most famous house built in 1960, is the backdrop of many TV shows and movies and is still occupied by the original owner, Carlotta Stahl. Lucky lady.

Not as well known but of the same style, Case Study House #21, the Bailey House, located in the Hollywood Hills (9028 Wonderland Park Ave., Los Angeles) was constructed in 1958 and embodies much of what is the quintessential L.A. Modern.

At 1320 square feet, it was built for $20,000. The 2 bedroom structure is balanced by five, count them, five reflection pools that completely surround the house and serve both cooling functions and as visual transitions between building and site. Koenig himself oversaw a complete renovation of the house for owner Dan Cracchiolo in 1998, after which it was sold for $1.5 million to Mark Haddawy. He sold it in December 2006 for over $3.5M. Guess who is doing some stalking this weekend??

Koenig's Case Study House #21 photographed by Julius Schulman (are his iconic images burned into your retinas yet?), with Pierre Koenig himself at the stereo. Then...

...And now. Remember when Brad Pitt collaborated with photographer Steven Klein (I heart you) in the 'controversial' edition of W magazine starring then rumored new love/man-eater Angelina?

Nice Papa Bear chair, BRAD.

Decor Porn

2009-05-02T09:56:00.003-05:00

Whoa, Nelly...

Allen Jones Chair, 1969

Filles Lampes by Marianne Maric

MCM Furniture Friday - Charles Eames

2009-05-01T08:35:00.002-05:00

Charles Eames occupied a unique position in the design world from 1940 when he and Saarinen won the competition for the design of a chair by the Museum of Modern Art in New York. But it is not just for his designs that he is important. Eames, and his wife and partner Ray Eames, achieved something much more rare: they caused a shift in the way we look at everything. Part of the secret of the Eames' success was that the items he picked for display were never from the world of high-art. Perhaps only Los Angeles, with its free-wheeling cultural ambiance and its questioning of European values, could have nurtured and sustained such a frankly hedonist, and whimsical, approach to design.

Charles Eames and his wife and design partner Ray. Man I wish I were around in the 40's, this couple looks like they really knew how to party!

Probably one of the most well known Eames chair is the molded plywood lounge chair and ottoman designed in 1956. Charles intended for this chair to have a "warm, receptive look of a well-used first basemen's mit". Despite the high price based on the fact the original prototype was upgraded with more individual pieces that made up the chair that combined factory technologies with expensive hand labor and craftsmanship, this chair became one of the best selling designs for Herman Miller.

Eames Lounge Chair

Eames Lounge Chair v2.Pug??

"XLounge," a fat chair version of the classic 1956 chair by Charles and Ray Eames, as reworked by Mark Wentzel.

The Eames Molded Plastic Rocker (1948), often known as the RAR (rocking armchair rod), was out of production for 30 years before being brought back with the blessings of the Eames Office. Originally manufactured in fiberglass-reinforced plastic, this classic rocker was updated in durable and environmentally friendly molded polypropylene.

The Eames Wire Chair, introduced in 1951 for the consumer who wanted quality design at a reasonable price. The Eameses molded the seat of their wire chair using cross-woven wires and positioned it on the bent-wire "Eiffel Tower" base. Due to cost restraints, strength requirements, and to further an organic shape, they made the rim of the chair a lighter-gauge wire and doubled it for strength and stability. This advance brought about their first American mechanical patent for design.

A few examples of Iconic Eames clocks, a coat hook and magazine rack...

The clock below is my absolute fave, however. Not only do I prefer the classic subdued mix of gold and wood, it can also be used as a weapon.

50 Strange (or are they??) Buildings of the World

2009-04-30T12:40:00.000-05:00

"I like big architecture and I cannot lie, you other brothers can't deny..." Okay, those aren't really how the song lyrics to that song go, but I do love me some truly unique, insane looking buildings. Below are several of my favorite structures and lots more can be found by visiting the awesome site, Village of Joy.

Since you guys know Prague tugs at my heartstrings, it's where we board this crazy train...

Dancing Building, Prague, Czech Republic

Nautilus house, Mexico City, Mexico

Stone House, Guimarães, Portugal
I just love the landscape in this photograph.

Hole House, Texas
Hellooooo? Anyone order a large pepperoni pizza? Pizza? Pizza?? Pizza???

Let's get blobby with it, people. Speaking of blobs...I am pretty sure the interior of this dom-y domicile is decorated exactly like this. FYI, Erin, upon seeing the fabulous Mexican wrestler photos, I had a major epiphany regarding my bare dining room table wall. Thank You!

Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain

And last but not least, my favorite futuristic fantasy...Is this not the most bad-ass structure you've ever laid eyes on?? It's actually a media pavillion which was built for Swiss Expo 2002 and a detailed and very interesting article can be found here.

Blur Building, Yverdon-les-Bainz, Switzerland

Cool Austin - Austin's MCM Architecture

2009-04-28T20:45:00.003-05:00

An exhibition of Mid–Century Modern Architecture in the Capital City

This exhibition, sponsored by AIA Austin, features fine examples of Austin's own Mid–Century Modern structures, and keys off Birth of the Cool, now at the Blanton Museum of Art. Cool Austin includes architectural landmarks like the Municipal Auditorium (now the Long Center) and Robert Mueller Airport. It showcases familiar building typologies that were established in the 1950's—the motor court motel, schools, churches and progressive homes spanning the 40's, 50's and 60's.

The exhibition is comprised of historic drawings, period photographs, models and plans. It illustrates how Austin's leading architects of the time interpreted the Modernist ideals of clean lines and blurred boundaries between man and nature, interior and exterior space.

Click here to download a copy of the self–guided driving tour map of neighborhoods and individual projects that epitomize Austin's mid-century modern architecture.

MCM Mondays - Richard Neutra

2009-04-27T08:11:00.000-05:00

To kick off House of Slappy's new 'MCM Mondays' posts, the featured Architect is the grand-daddy of the modernist movement, Richard Neutra! Born and educated in Europe, Richard Neutra introduced the International Style to America, and also introduced Los Angeles design to Europe. His firm designed many office buildings, churches, and cultural centers, but Richard Neutra is best known for his residential architecture.

Homes designed by Neutra combined Bauhaus modernism with Southern California building traditions. They were were dramatic, flat-surfaced industrialized-looking buildings placed into a carefully arranged landscape. Constructed with steel, glass, and reinforced concrete, they were typically finished in stucco.

Neutra designed the Kaufmann House in Palm Springs, California, in 1947, and it still stands as a prime example of modernist architecture.

The house was commissioned by Edgar Kaufmann, a department-store tycoon, who had hired Frank Lloyd Wright to build Fallingwater in Pennsylvania the decade before. After Kaufmann died in 1955, his Palm Springs house stood vacant for several years, but later had a series of famous owners including Barry Manilow.

The house was made famous by photographs taken by Julius Shulman (who will be featured in a post dedicated to his work in the future) such as these:

In 1992 it was purchased by Brent and Beth Harris for $1.5 million and they spent another $5 million painstakingly restoring the home to its original design. Neutra had died in 1970 and the original plans were unavailable, so the Harrises looked through the Neutra archives at UCLA and Columbia University and studied original, never-published photographs of the home’s interior taken by Shulman.

The couple divorced, however, and the home was sold at auction by Christie’s as part of a high-profile sale of contemporary art. Its auction at Christie’s in 2007 made international headlines. The auction house expected it to sell for upwards of $25 million, but in the end an anonymous bidder scooped it up for a cool $19 million.

According to Christie’s: Neutra’s Kaufmann House is one of the most important examples of modernist residential architecture in the Americas and remains singular as the most important example of mid-century modernist architecture in the Americas to remain in private hands. It sold for $16,841,000 - and the buyer exercised an option to buy the orchard, taking the total for the house to $19,025,000.

The Lovell House (1927-1929) created a sensation in architectural circles in both Europe and America. Stylistically, this important early work was similar to the work of Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe in Europe.

Later in his career, Neutra designed a series of elegant pavilion-style homes composed of layered horizontal planes. With extensive porches and patios, the homes appeared to merge with the surrounding landscape. The Kaufmann Desert House (1946-1947) and the Tremaine House (1947-48) are important examples of Neutra's pavilion houses.

Neutra's Tremaine House

New Business Card!

2009-04-25T09:58:00.008-05:00

I picked up my new business cards yesterday evening. Needless to say, there is nothing more rewarding than having one of your goals come to fruition:

Spring Cleaning Week

2009-04-24T08:38:00.000-05:00

It's Friday which means I've saved the best for last. This final tasty treat come courtesy of...you guessed it - Elle Decor September 2007 (I really didn't mean to post this entire week's pics from one magazine, but these truly are some of my favorite spreads.)

In an ode to 1950's modernism, these photos are dear to my heart because not only is this house completely cozy and inviting, it has all of the elements which will eventually comprise my dream home: mid-century modern ranch house, high stone walls, an enormous fireplace (yes, in Texas) and breathtaking views. And a rectangular swimming pool!

As much as I would like to claim this rural Connecticut house as my own, it actually belongs to Bruce Glickman and Wilson Henley, owners of this Tribeca mid-century inspired store. Built in 1954, the couple renovated the home from straight-up country theme replete with brick floors and walls of barn siding, channeled Richard Neutra to see what he would do and...voila!

This post is actually a happy accident because as of Monday, in an effort to educate myself on the most inspiring and successful mid-century modern architects, House of Slappy will be beginning a new series of posts entitled none other than...'Mid-Century Modern Mondays' and 'Furniture Fridays' featuring some of the best and classic furniture MCM has to offer. I know, I'm so zany.

Just look at that Robert Longo lithograph taunting me from afar...

A view of the Litchfield Hills; the poolhouse, deck, and pool date from the 1960s. Ahhhh, serenity now.

Spring Cleaning Week

2009-04-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

Moving right along, we have here another modest (yeah, right) Manhattan abode of Brazilian fashion designer Carlos Miele featured in the October 2007 edition of Elle Decor. And when I say modest, I mean ginormous triplex.

According to Miele, all he wanted was a place to admire his two favorite things in the world - sky and water. You and me both, brother. And the floor-to-ceiling windows aren't too shabby either, to which he adds, "I love the idea of sunset on three floors". As do I, Carlos, as do I...

I'm in love with this dining area. The chartreuse chairs, the 1970's mid-century modern Albrizzi table mixed with the aqua blue? Fuggedaboutit.

Miele's study... is that a freakin' Noguchi coffee table I see and if so, why does it seems everyone has one but me?!? It's just like that whole babies and car phenomena...

Okay, this is this photo out of the entire spread which made my heart go boom, boom, boom, boom! Arctic blue colored rug adorned with vintage arm chairs...and I'm not sure why, but I would totally love that large silver pillar in my house. On the back wall is a piece titled Dancers, a collaborative piece by Miele and architect Hani Rashid. If anyone happens to come across a close-up of this on-line, please let me know!

No. More. Zebra. Rugs. Period. Stop. The. Madness.

Spring Cleaning Week

2009-04-22T09:51:00.002-05:00

Next up for Spring Cleaning week is the 1845 Greek Revival townhouse of one of my fashion heroes, Cynthia Rowley, featured in the October 2008 spread in Elle Decor. Back in the day when I had grand plans to take over the fashion world, I always looked up to Rowley for her beautiful, feminine and very fun designs. These photos of her home truly reflect the aesthetic of hers I fell in love with years ago - traditional yet modern, utilitarian yet artistic, solid yet whimsical.

The woman can do no wrong in my book, she even designed this beautiful metallic wallpaper.

Rowley and her husband's daughter Gigi...even her name is too cute.

I'm a serious sucker for swimming pools. Not only do I just love this picture, I'm drooling over those mid-century chaise lounges with pretty floral fabric.

How gorgeous is this room?! And that amazing bar cart?

Of course Rowley designed this wallpaper, too...

And what kid's bunk beds don't have a Takashi Murakami art piece hanging on the wall? Come on you slacker parents, step up your game.

A serious art collector, Rowley's collection includes pieces by artists such as Rachel Feinstein, Tom Sachs, Richard Prince, Will Cotton, Christopher Wool, and Elizabeth Peyton.

If I was resourceful right now I would totally Photoshop mine and my husbands heads onto this picture. I've also been contemplating which colors to decorate the bedroom with and right now rich deep purple and blue are lookin' really good right about now.

Spring Cleaning Week

2009-04-21T00:13:00.030-05:00

I've recently (as of 10 minutes ago) decided the rest of this week is going to be 'Spring Cleaning Week' here at House of Slappy. I have oodles of coolness and/or covetable interiors stashed away in a lone manilla folder which has been screaming for attention since I've started my humble little blog. That being said, it's not going to be a week chalk full of brand-spanking new design porn, people. Trust me....it will be good stuff, so just sit back in your Eames recliner and enjoy.

First up we have one of my favorite (I'm afraid I'm going to use 'favorite' very loosely this week) spreads from the October 2008 edition of Metropolitan Home featuring an incredible home in the Hampton's decorated by designer Shamir Shah and built by architects by Shigeru Ban and Dean Maltz.

A long hallway parallel to the pool connects the living room and master bedroom wings. Perfection.

One canopy serves as a carport...

...and the other canopy shelters outdoor seating.

How lovely are those two Papa Bear chairs by Hans Wegner?

Can we just talk about this adorable dining area for a minute here? The neutral colors, the custom screen, the proximity towards the sliding glass door (which I'm sure opens to the pool area) all of which = LOVE! However, as much as I love it, let's not even talk about how one is supposed to dust that chandelier.

..and here we have the 'media room'. Media room? I don't see a 50" flat panel anywhere...

So this is what an actual gym room looks like...

The Master Suite...

I Heart Rainy Days.

2009-04-17T08:19:00.023-05:00

What are two great tastes that taste great together? Why, it's Friday and it's a deliciously dark and cloudy rainy day, of course! The ideal day to open-up all the windows, kick on some jazz, listen to the rain fall and feel the fresh cool air. All enjoyed from the comforts of a living room such as this...

I know you're probably thinking, "Where is the comfy couch?", but the dark rich colors are what I was really going after...I absolutely love the mix of burgundy and brown with a splash of light blue and yellow.

And best of all, I could easily devour a ton of decor magazines in this heavenly bed...

It's a shame my scanner isn't wider, the sleek walnut bed frame goes on for days. Ask me how badly I want that Barbara Kruger print above the bed.

I Could Live Here...

2009-04-15T22:44:00.010-05:00

I have to admit my mind is in a million places these days and unfortunately the furthest place it's been lately is in inspiration land. That being said, how about feasting on some low-hanging fruit? This groovy late 1960's home is currently on the market in Austin and comes replete with fossil and lava rock walls and my favorite part? All the rooms open to the pool!

If you lived here you'd be home by now...

Hmmm...this room needs a little somethin' somethin' and I can't quite put my finger on it. Oh! I know! I would toss that cowhide rug into that floating lava rock fireplace...which also happens to seat 12. Ahhh, much better. Via Modern Austin.

Czech it out...

2009-04-14T08:58:00.001-05:00

I am very proud to have been born in Slovakia, or Czechoslovakia as I knew it as the little dumpling of my parents' eyes...in a city named Kosice to be exact and regrettably it has been well over 15 years since I have visited my amazing homeland. A dream (read: goal) for this year is for the Mr. and I to visit my friends and slightly dysfunctional but lovable family.

No doubt about it, I can no longer ignore my beloved Bryndzové Halušky, Pierogi, Slivovice and Goulash beckoning me to once again divulge in all things decadent and artery-clogging. Sigh. Food and booze talk aside, my nostalgia for home sweet home has gotten me wondering about what my homies have been up to in their world of design. Let's Czech it out!

First and foremost, we'll need an uber stylish and expensive place to crash, so let's see what the popular Hotel Josef has to offer....but first, I feel a boutique hotel dilemma coming on. Two swanky hotels, both of which are decorated by a one Eva Jiricna.

I know I've been touting color as of late, but nothing says sweet slumber like a neutral room, soft white sheets and no overhead lighting...and a splendid Ghost chair.

...and next we have Hotel Maximilian, just a few steps from Old Town Square, with Art Deco, Modernism and contemporary design influences.

I'm digging the all-white living area...and those corset-inspired chairs?!?! Super-sexy!

Love Art Deco, Bauhaus and Czech Modernism?...now THIS is a plant stand I can stand - Found at gallery Kubista:

...and an Art Deco couch to die for!

Eat your heart out with this original chair circa mid 1930s by Jindřich Halabala. Can you believe the arm rest/legs are made of one piece of solid beech bent in a mould? Found at Modernista.

And finally, the most important burning question for any style junkie/foodie? Where is the best place to eat? Funny thing you should ask! As I was cyber-stalking just one of my chef crushes, Gordon Ramsay, several months ago, I knew it was true love when I discovered one of the restaurants in his empire was located in Old Town Prague. Sadly, I recently learned after a little over a year, Maze is shut its doors February 2009. Here are some photos of what would have been...

So we don't conclude our little adventure on a sad note, let's go to plan B. Housed in 12th-century Roman cellars, in one of the oldest buildings on Old Town Square, restaurant Bílý koníček offers fine cuisine in atmospheric and tranquil medieval surroundings...and it turns into a discotheque at night!

Want to help out the economy?

2009-04-12T23:03:00.007-05:00

A little birdie told me Kirk Gallery has just launched it's very first vintage sale! Everything in-store is marked down 10%-25% and for those of you who prefer to let your fingers do the shopping, free shipping on web orders over $100. The sale runs through May 15th, and info about it (including pics and prices of all the sale merchandise) is in the 20th-c. section.

In similar related news proving the Design Gods are smiling upon us, Ligne Roset (can you say Togo?!) is set to open April 16 in Austin, Texas. According to a recent article in Forbes, "While hundreds of storefronts will close this year, some retailers are bucking the trend. French contemporary furniture brand Ligne Roset will open its U.S. "concept" boutique next week in Austin's hip 2nd Street District. Unlike its other U.S. outposts, this 2,000-square-foot location will feature a curated selection of the line's most innovative and unique pieces, including everything from tables to lighting, textiles, sofas and chairs. The brand is betting on its distinctive look--think Spirograph-covered pillows and chandeliers sculpted out of foam--to draw in Austin's most discerning crowd."

Vintage Modern Homes!

2009-04-12T22:30:00.006-05:00

I'm proud and happy to announce...it's official! This past Saturday I passed my Real Estate exam and am going to be a Realtor associated with one of the coolest (in my opinion) brokerage firms in Austin, Vintage Modern Homes.

According to Broker Steve Herbert, "Vintage Modern is a full-service real estate brokerage, design, and remodeling company dedicated to preserving Austin’s plentiful mid-century modern architecture. We provide expertise and services for purchases and sales of homes, renovations, and whole remodels. Many mid-century modern homes in poor condition are in jeopardy of being torn down and replaced by a “McMansion.” Vintage Modern rehabilitates these classics, improving the value of neighboring properties while preserving Austin’s neighborhoods and unique culture. Our unique blend of real estate, design, and construction knowledge, coupled with our broad range of services enables us to fully serve all of our clients’ needs."

Take a peek at one of my favorite homes broker Steve Herbert has renovated here. More details soon to come!

MCM "The Incredibles"?...Incroyable!!

2009-04-07T22:54:00.026-05:00

I just had to share these really great animation stills from Pixar's animated hit, "The Incredibles" depicting an amazing and quite perfect rendition of mid-century modernism via The Mid-Century Modernist. It's all in the details...

This house is out of this world.

Color Me Badd

2009-04-06T21:44:00.026-05:00

In the last several of my posts, I've made no secret of my penchant for color - I'm not sure what it stems from, whether it is the need to add some pizazz to our house after having moved in a little over a year ago or my present affinity for all things bold and bright. What I do know, is as soon as I saw fashion designer Matthew Williamson's kaleidoscopic crib in Domino last September, I knew then we were two peas in a pod. For the time being, anyway.

Hark! The herald angels sing...a mirrored tile fireplace.

Less truley is more - I would scale back on some of the books and tsotchkes and display the side table against the wall in all of it's neon lucite splendor.

Ok, folks - I realize neon is not everyone's cup of chai, but I embrace it. Hold on to your 1999 Prince album and prepare yourselves for a neon showcase in the near future!

Whoop, there it is again. This time in a lovely shade of pink against an all white cabinet. Thinking about getting one of these bad boys? Pony up that extra $44,000 you've been contemplating how to spend.

And finally, a bit of refuge from the madness in a black and white bedroom.

2009-04-03T12:09:00.002-05:00

Greetings House of Slappy readers! Andrea asked me to guest-blog today about the symposium I participated in last weekend at the Blanton. The museum convened a group of local modernism experts in various fields -- and they were specifically looking for folks like entrepreneurs, not academics -- to discuss the general topic of "living cool," in conjunction with the Blanton's ongoing Birth of the Cool exhibition (and if you haven't seen it yet, check it out post-haste!). My fellow panelists were Annette Carlotti, the curator of the exhibit; Kevin Alter, head honcho of Alterstudio (and winner of too many architectural design awards to count) and associate dean of UT's architecture school; Jeanne-Claire Van Ryzin, the Statesman's longtime arts critic; Michael Nestor, manager of the stunning new Hotel St. Cecilia; Gail Chovan, the owner of local boutiques Blackmail and Vivid; and Carl McQueary, a major mid-century design collector and one of the state's leading experts on Texas modernist art.

The Birth of the Cool exhibit has a somewhat limited focus, the explosion of innovative architecture, furniture design, art and music in Southern California between 1949 and 1962; our own discussion was not so limited. In fact, a big chunk of it was devoted to what the exhibit was lacking (a question posed by the curator herself). Gail aptly pointed out that fashion played a major role in '60s "coolness" in general, particularly starting with the advent of Mary Quant's miniskirt design in 1964 (which started in London but leapt across the Atlantic almost immediately), but is entirely excluded from the exhibit. (This was undoubtedly because Southern California has never been a fashion-industry center like New York, Paris or London.)

We also discussed fashion in the context of the numerous iconic Julius Shulman photos incorporated into the show, in particular his heavily staged shots of the Case Study houses in the L.A. area, Lautner's notorious Chemosphere, and of course Palm Springs's legendary Kaufmann House. The women in these shots are generally depicted as subservient, perfectly manicured housewives in prim, long skirts, a topic we all noted seems exceedingly sexist in the context of today (but admittedly was the cultural norm at the time). I questioned whether Shulman's depictions of these women in these particular homes were accurate, since it's a logical deduction that the owners of avant-garde architecture didn't exactly adhere to standard cultural norms, and thus their female residents were perhaps far more progressive than the '50s-era American woman in general. Most of us also agreed that the scope of the exhibit forced the exclusion of far too much "coolness": there was plenty of it going on during the era outside of Southern California, most particularly the emergence of the Beats in New York, and we thought 1962 was too arbitrary a date to end on, given the cultural explosions of the mid- and late-'60s (derived from Vietnam to the Civil Rights Act to the Kennedy assassination and on and on).

From there we segued into a discussion about the ever-increasing price of modernism, and the fact that the types of architecture and furniture design developed in the '50s -- originally designed to be mass-produced and affordably priced -- aren't any longer so today. (In effect, design once within reach, well, isn't, at least for most.) I was lobbed a query about the merits of IKEA, and whether it's an adequate substitute for the types of modern design that the average consumer can no longer afford. My answer was no: IKEA furniture may not look bad, but it's cheap for a reason. Shoddy construction using the cheapest possible materials, e.g. particleboard; manufacturing (not necessarily at IKEA, but certainly other purveyors of inexpensive furniture) in countries with highly questionable labor practices and environmental standards; etc. Sure, that West Elm etagere might be cute, but would you want it knowing it was produced by 15-year-olds working for 50 cents an hour and made from wood clear-cut from pristine forests? (Disclaimer: this is only a hypothetical example. I do not have any personal knowledge of how or where West Elm produces its products.)

Michael from the St. Cecilia talked about the wonderful conviviality the hotel strives to foster amongst their artistically oriented guests, but again, the topic returned to money: the St. Cecilia is far and away the most expensive hotel in Austin, so this convivial artistic vibe is limited as the privilege of a rather select few. (I can't throw stones in glass houses here: I readily admit that I run a design gallery that sells vintage furniture mostly in the four-figure range and in some cases five. However, nearly everything I sell is investment-grade in the true sense, e.g. an asset that can be sold down the road most likely for a profit. Even in today's terrible economic climate, prices for high-quality 20th-century design -- both at retail and at auction -- remain as strong as ever, with only a few exceptions.)

Finally, we talked about how -- and whether -- the exhibit relates to Austin. We all know Austin is totally cool, but back in the '50s it was still a sleepy college town, and while UT's art department fomented a prodigious amount of excellent modernist art (much of which is regrettably underappreciated today), Austin never had architects on the scale of Neutra or Lautner or furniture designers like the Eameses. We have some excellent examples of mid-century architecture, but frankly not that many, and too many of them are in danger of being demolished (top of that list being the former American National Bank building at 6th and Colorado, which was the first significant modernist building in Austin, with interiors originally designed by Florence Knoll, and which still contains an epic, 100-foot-wide Seymour Fogel mural in its lobby).

Still, we certainly had music, then and now! While the apex of Austin music didn't really hit until the '70s and the debut of venues like the legendary Armadillo, music has played a considerable role in the "coolness" of both Southern California and Austin for decades, a topic we discussed as well. While the name "Birth of the Cool" comes from the title of a Miles Davis album, there are myriad forms of music -- from the '50s through the '70s -- that could conceivably fall into the category of "cool," from artists as diverse as Stevie Ray to, yes, arguably even the likes of the Beach Boys.

On that note, I'll end, and thanks again to Andrea for allowing me the privilege of guest-blogging!

Gimme Chic Shelter!

2009-04-01T22:56:00.028-05:00

I'm pretty certain that when the Mr. and I win the lottery the first order of business will be securing some sweet digs...and when that day arrives, I'm speed dialing these two talented design dudes...

Bercy Chen Studio LP is an architecture/urban planning firm with design/build capabilities based in Austin, Texas, founded by partners Thomas Bercy and Calvin Chen, both graduates of the University of Texas at Austin. The firm was recently profiled in Architectural Record's December 2006 "Design Vanguard" award issue, selected as one of top 10 emerging design firms in the world. In 2007 Bercy Chen Studio LP was part of the "Young Americans" exhibition at the Deutsche Architektur Museum in Frankfurt, Germany. The firm's work has been published in over 20 countries including The New York Times and Business Week for Design Innovation in 2007.

I'm very much in love with cobalt blue nowadays, but I just got a mini panic attack at the sheer thought of having to keep all of those windows spotless.

Ahhhh, this atrium water garden will surely cut down on shining the hardwoods! But all of those windows are still taunting me...

What's better than living on a lake? More water near a lake, of course.

I love indoor/outdoor living. Can't you just imagine opening the doors and windows on a cool crisp fall day and taking in a deep breath of nature? And that patio? Isn't it just screaming for some cushy lounge seats, some good tunes and a rain shower?

On another (but still stylish) note, make sure to check back very soon as Jeff Kirk, of Kirk Gallery, will be serving as House of Slappy's first guest Blogger! I'm really looking forward to what he has to say and am sure he won't disappoint. As for myself, I'm headed out of town for a long weekend and will return Monday with some more eye candy. Cheers, A.

Well, Hello, Cody Cloud and Julia Galdo!

2009-03-31T23:20:00.017-05:00

Continuing with the theme of dynamic duos, I've had the happy fortune of stumbling across the amazing photography team of Cody Cloud and Julia Galdo based out of Santa Monica, California. If I had to use one word to describe their work it would be… crazy beautiful. Yes, that is one word in House of Slappy vernacular. You can see more of Galdo's work here and about how they roll here.

All of Cloud and Galdo's images have such an amazing and distinct point of view and a dreamy quality to them which make me wish I could just walk inside of the pictures, but what really struck me most were the interiors and colors...

Dynamic Design Duo...and an Exciting Announcement!

2009-03-30T22:30:00.034-05:00

With the phenomenal weather lately and my mind focused on getting out of town for some R&R this weekend, all I've been thinking about is bright, bold and vibrant colors. Coincidentally, I've been contemplating posting some of my favorite photos of amazing design duo Pal + Smith that I fell in love with a few short months ago and when I learned via Design Milk they've recently realeased a new line of furniture...I knew I had to get to typing.

Designers Melissa Palazzo and Toni Smith, of Pal + Smith, once again strike design gold with their debut collection of bright and bold pieces mixed with darker graphic takes on Baroque inspired furniture, which seem to be their signature style in interior design and now furniture design.

...and here is where my stalking, I mean, apprecation, began:

Ok, I know the faux leopard print coat and patent leather sandals 'casually' strewn across the bed is the result of a blatant attempt at styling, but come on - it's the perfect eye candy and goes great with the room, right?

Oh my gosh, this dining room feels so easy breezy beautiful. I just love the light color palette and that light fixture? Fuggedabout it!

...and how incredible is this living room? I absolutely love it.

Finally! Last but not least, I'm so excited to announce this Friday Jeff Kirk, proprietor of the one and only eponymously named Kirk Gallery, will be filling in as my first official guest blogger. This past weekend, Kirk served on a panel at the Blanton Museum of Art where he discussed modernism and how it relates to Austin and since I was not able to attend to report on it, he is doing me the honor of sharing his musings and the highlights here at House of Slappy.

If you've been living under a rock lately, Kirk Gallery is located in the 2nd Street District and showcases an stunning array of 20th-century vintage furniture and design-driven accessories. His gallery has been written about numerous times in Tribeza and Austin Monthly and is quickly becoming the go-to source for unique home furnishings and accessories among design enthusiasts. Although, Jeff - I have to know...why isn't the gold gnome which resulted in near white-elephant party bloodshed available for sale on your website?!?! I had the fortune of attending the gallery's opening in September 2008 and let me tell you, the bathroom alone is a conversation piece. Thanks Jeff, and we look forward to your visit this week!

Austin Energy Audits...How Green is Your Stylish Pad?

2009-03-29T19:26:00.006-05:00

Earlier this week I attended a seminar regarding City of Austin ORDINANCE NO. 20081106-047, better known as Austin's new Energy Audit Ordinance and wanted to share some of the information I learned with you. The Energy Audit ordinance was signed into compliance in November 2008 and by June 1, 2009, will require "all residential properties within the city limits, 10 years or older, who receive services from the Austin Electric Utility and that are on the market for sale to have an energy audit completed by a certified auditor prior to the property being sold and closed", according to the Texas Green Energy Audits website.

The purpose of the new ordinance? The city wants to encourage Austin homeowners to voluntarily participate in energy efficiency programs through Austin Energy. “The goals of this program are to lower energy consumption by driving the market towards demanding higher standards of home energy efficiency. Reduced demand for electricity will benefit us all in the following ways; lower monthly bills; lower taxes because the City will not have to construct additional power plants and better air quality due to reduced CO2 emissions” says Susan Marler, founder of Energy Action.

It is important to note that there is still a lot of work going on behind the scenes up until June 1, 2009. A whole lot. Without getting too technical and boring you all to tears, the biggest challenge seems to be that currently, there are roughly 11,000 homes for sale listed on the MLS, not to mention the 388,000 customers Austin Energy services. Granted, the latter figure does not comprise single homes entirely but also includes commercial buildings and multi-family dwellings such as apartment complexes and condos. Consider that there are just a fraction of those numbers of inspectors who belong to the Texas Association of Real Estate Inspectors (TARI), guess how many of them are actually BPI certified to audit this new energy compliance? Exactly.

So what did I take away from the seminar? Well - just generalize with me for a minute here - it seems this whole "change" thing always seems to get people up in arms. From what I gather, there has been a considerable amount of dialogue on this topic amongst the Austin Real Estate Salesperson and Austin Real Estate Inspector communities. No matter how you roll the dice, change just freaks some people out. There are people who learn about the change, accept it and embrace it. On the other hand, others are always going to see the glass as half empty no matter how much tea and organic Sugar in the Raw you put inside of it.

So what does this mean to you? According to Krisstina Wise from The Good Life Team, "for Sellers: This means that the cost of selling Austin homes after June 1st, 2009 will increase. You may also have a harder time selling your home if your energy audit report is unsatisfactory to prospective Buyers. The good news is that you will have a greater understanding of your home’s level of energy efficiency and you’ll be participating in a collective effort to lower Austin’s energy usage, create green jobs, and take better care of our environment.

Buyers: This means that after June 1st, 2009 the seller(s) of a non-exempt property within the city of Austin will be required to complete a mandatory energy audit and disclose the findings of that report to you prior to closing. This will offer you a better understanding of the home’s energy efficiency so that you can make a more informed buying decision.

Next steps?
Take action now before your home gets audited and improve your home’s energy efficiency for better audit results. For example, air seal and insulate your home, improve your heating and cooling efficiency, and when replacing appliances choose energy star appliances.
Participate in one of Austin Energy’s designated utility programs and you may be exempt from the mandatory audit.

Contact Energy Action today for more information or to schedule your energy audit online. They give 25% of their annual profits to local charities."

Honestly, I think a lot of the controversy regarding this energy ordinance has to do with the fact that few facts and details are known. How often will the sophisticated equipment need to be calibrated in order to remain accurate? What happens when a house is scheduled to close on a Thursday and a certified energy auditor is not available until the following Wednesday? (Keep in mind, too, that this energy audit is completely separate from a regular house inspection.) Will every single unit in a condo or an apartment be required to undergo an audit or will just a sample of a few units be sufficient? And most importantly, how will the findings of the audit influence what upgrades the Buyers will want or expect to be covered by the Seller before they sign the sales contract? The repairs are going to be called ‘upgrades’ or something similar with the idea being the value that will be gained once the upgrade is performed. There is still a lot to learn and as new information is released I feel it will alleviate a lot of worries and concern.

Being a Libra and therefore very diplomatic, I see both sides of the argument as to why this is and is not a good idea. First, there is the concern over “Who are they to tell me what I can and can’t do with MY property?” Then there is the concern of, “What? I’m required to do yet another thing before I can sell my house? Are you kidding me?” I get it.

However, all of this hoopla boils down to these main two things. First and foremost, 30% of our (and your) energy bill goes to heat and cool the attic unless you've done something to improve it, this is huge cause for concern in my opinion. Early on I learned from my Science/Gym Teacher that energy cannot be created nor destroyed. I’m not best buds with Mr. Bernacke, but I do know according to the law of supply and demand, the scarcer something is, the more expensive it becomes. All of the energy in Austin which is currently being wasted due to improper insulation and outdated systems creates a surplus of energy and since it cannot be recreated or mass-produced to bring the cost down, it is eventually going to cost everyone a lot more money unless we take steps now to fix this problem.

Depending on how you look it, yes – an energy audit is an additional expense (expected to cost somewhere in the range of $200-$400 depending on the size of the house) and an extra step (which typically takes about 1 hour per square foot) a seller needs to take before selling their home. Just as with a Seller's Disclosure Notice which is required of the seller to complete regarding the condition of their home, the energy audit report will simply be a disclosure summary for how efficient or inefficient a home is before the contract is executed - and the sale will not close unless the title company has a record of the audit. Contrary to popular belief, the home does not have to receive a 'Pass' or meet a minimum score in order to be sold. In addition, the 'upgrades' do not even have to be completed in order for the house to be sold; audit simply needs to be performed. At this time I do not know how long the upgrades need to be completed after having the audit performed.

Stay tuned, I’ll post more new information in the near future.

Hyde Park Haven

2009-03-24T22:41:00.038-05:00

I really, really love this time of year. Can someone please tell me what there is not to love about Spring? First of all, you don't need an oven glove to put your car key in the ignition - much less open your car door, you don't have that embarassing leg sweat when you are sitting on a plastic patio chair with your legs crossed at an outdoor cocktail party and best of all, Mother Nature gives free A.C!

Case in point, this charming and serene home in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Austin, Texas which was showcased in a Summer 2008 edition of Austin Monthly Home. I fell in love with this home the first time I saw it and feel it depicts Spring beautifully. I've been holding onto it dearly in my manilla folder fun bag ever since I layed eyes on it. All photos are by the uber-talented Ryann Ford - who, as Jill from The Real Housewives of New York would say, "I just died" when I saw her work, so be sure to take a look at her stunning portfolio.

Now this is what I call indoor/outdoor living!

Personally, I think I would have been too afraid to combine these bad-ass flourescent chairs with an orange table but with this beautiful flower arrangement, everything just works, especially with a neutral interior with light floors and a nude brick fireplace.

There's my cute little table and chairs saying hello to me from afar. Sometimes you feel like dining al fresco, sometimes you don't.

Okay. I have to get something of the way. I really dislike those barstools. I can appreciate what is attempted to be accomplished here, but they are way too match-y match-y, don't you think?? Why not just some simple and minimalist metal wire stools or if you really want to get zany with contrast...natural wood. Ahhh, I feel better now. Moving forward, I do love me some white kitchen - especially with subtle pops of bright bold color.

Every so often on Sunday afternoons I love to open all windows in the bedroom and curl up with my cats, a good book which I've attempted to get past the second chapter a million times before falling asleep and a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. I love to listen to the birds and relish the fact we are no longer living in Washington, D.C. but rather in our homestead in good ol' Austin, Texas. If this were real life in my world, on the other hand, I would be praying my neighbors weren't staring at me in my PJ pants and that would probably be a Mimosa by the bedside. I'm just sayin'...

Remember what I said above with regards to all-white kitchens with bright bold spalshes of color? I love the same thing about bathrooms.

Is this Heaven?

2009-03-22T22:13:00.032-05:00

It is not, my friends, but very close...it is Trendir, the most fresh and spectacular modern design and decorating website I have encountered in a really loooooong time.

Look! An indoor lap pool with pretty colors.

One dreamy living area, coming right up! I love everything about this space - the sprawling open-ness, the spiral staircase, ahhh...the red patio chair on the right has my name all over it.

Is it just me or does this bathroom look like it could belong to Lenny Kravitz? I'm so digging the paisley wallpaper, vanity mirror and laquered walls! It just looks so cozy and relaxing this could quite possibly be my lady cave.

What do we have here? Hmmmm? I have to admit I really dislike the shell-fish inspired sinks and the tacky mirror frames, but this is where we get to use our imagination and visualize something way cooler...such as two Francois Ghost Mirrors by Philippe Stark in black and equally hip sinks. What really got me in this photo, though, are those gorgeous white sink stands juxtaposed against the deep plum wall and floors. Are those crystals I see on the sink stands? Ka-ching!

Awwww, yeah. Not only are these tufted leather babies quite lovley, I'm sure my cats wouldn't jump on them in a heartbeat to make biscuits. Yeah, right!

First-Time Home Buyer Credit Information

2009-03-22T21:33:00.012-05:00

A lot of information has been circulated over the past few months regarding President Obama's stimulus package with regards to housing. Many people are aware there is a tax credit of up to $8,000 but what about all of the other nitty gritty details? What does this all mean? The article below, by Jonathan Boatwright of Realty Austin, is a great summary of everything you need to know if you are interested in purchasing your first home between now and December 1, 2009.

First-Time Home buyer Credit of Up to $8,000
Qualified first-time home buyers who purchase a home in 2009 before December 1, 2009 will receive a tax credit of up to 10% of the purchase price (up to $8,000). Home buyers can claim the credit on their income taxes and receive money back in excess of taxes. For example, if you are owed a refund of $1,000, you could now receive up to $9,000 back.

Program details:

The credit does not have to be repaid, provided the home is owned for more than three years.
To be considered a first-time home buyer, the purchaser (and spouse) must not have owned a home for three years prior to home purchase.
The home must be the purchaser’s primary residence; only single family homes qualify.
Full credit will be issued to individuals with an adjusted gross income of no more than $75,000 ($150,000 on a joint return). Individuals with incomes over $95,000 ($170,000 on a joint return) will not receive the credit.
The new credit may be combined with state/local revenue bond money to help finance the home purchase.

Tax Credit for Energy Efficient Home Improvements:
The tax credit is now 30% of the cost of the improvements (up to $1,500). Eligible improvements include insulation, central A/C units, heat pumps, water heaters and energy efficient exterior doors and windows.

FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Loan Limits:
The new law reinstates 2008’s loan limits for FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac through December 31, 2009. The limits were equal to the greater of 125% of the local area median home price, or $271,050 for FHA and $417,000 for Fannie and Freddie (overall maximum cap of $729,750). In some areas where the limits were higher, the higher limits will apply.

Tax Relief and Benefits for Families:
A payroll tax credit will provide up to $400 per worker ($800 per couple filing jointly). The credit phases out at $200,000 for couples filing jointly and $100,000 for single taxpayers.

A new (partially refundable) tax credit offers a maximum of $2,500 toward college tuition and related expenses for 2009 and 2010.
Unemployed Americans can now claim up to 33 weeks of benefits through December 2009. Benefits will be increased by $25 a week, while the first $2,400 received will be exempt from federal taxes.
Laid-off workers who buy into their former employer’s health insurance through the COBRA program will receive a 65% subsidy on premiums for up to nine months.

The Rise of the Sunken Living Room!

2009-03-18T19:32:00.033-05:00

Although I don't know how accurate of a statement 'The Rise of the Sunken Living Room' truly is of making their big comebacks, what I do know about sunken living rooms is that I love them, have always loved them and really, really hope to see more of them in the near future. Regrettably, the resurgence ain't happening in MY living room. Let's take a step back in time for a brief second, kids...

I'm not sure what is going on here, folks, but if that really is a small cloud of smoke billowing under that paper lantern, I'll just say momma didn't raise a math whiz but I do know 4+4= good times on that floor. And don't try to tell me it's insence, either. I respect the elements of nature going on in this photo but it's a little too claustrophobic for my liking.

Ahhhh, Hello 2009! Much better. Although I do love the clean lines and open-ness of what we have going on here, I'm not sure marble floors, sharp edges and margarita parties go hand in hand. Furthermore, let's not forget the pefectly symmetrical and perfectly slippery wet pool that's beckoning my friends and I in the back yard. Next!

Indeed. We're getting warmer, kids. Non-slip surface? Check. Softer edges? Check. Me like-y but it's still missing a little somethin' somethin'...

Wait, what do we have here? Oh, we're in one of Jade Jagger's sunken rooms in Ibiza, are we? Sorry, I meant...I-bi-tha. Oooh, me really like-y this one. And it's a circular sunken room to boot!!! Not only with cushy seating, but a tufted chaise lounge, Roman shades, slick white painted foors AND a fireplace?? Woa.

Well this is a formidable little living room, isn't it? But let's just say, hypothetically, that one came home to this living room from spending a fabulous weekend with Jade in her loveley home in I-bi-tha after having copious amounts of Ouzo...hypothetically. How could one comfortably lay down with an amazingly cushiony down pillow and a bottle of Topo Chico and bitters to watch a Million Dollar Listing marathon? My point exactly!

Now we're talking!

Hotel Saint Cecilia

2009-03-17T23:57:00.000-05:00

I can't think of a better way to celebrate my very first post than by sharing these amazing photographs by Jackie Caradonio she took of one of Austin's newest and in my opinion, most bad-ass hotels, Hotel Saint Cecilia, located on South Congress Avenue. Let's begin at the pool, shall we?