Tag: Design Projects

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.

Most Iconic Interior Designers: Elsie de Wolfe

“I’m going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life”

 

Elsie de Wolfe, also known as Lady Mendl, was born in 1865 in New York and led a glamorous life as a prominent figure in European café society. Often referred to as the “grand dame of modern decorating,” she is widely credited with pioneering the profession of interior design and is considered by many to be the first modern professional decorator.

Her career began in the theater under the guidance of theatrical agent Elisabeth Marbury. Though her acting received modest attention, it was her impeccable fashion sense that captured the public’s eye. Women admired her carefully curated outfits and began to emulate her style, establishing de Wolfe as a fashion icon of her era. In fact, she was named the “best-dressed woman in the world” in 1935.

But who exactly was Elsie de Wolfe, and what lasting impact did she leave on the world of interior design?

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.

Elsie de Wolfe: The Woman Who Invented Interior Design

Known and revered as America’s first decorator, Elsie de Wolfe changed the course of interior design forever. Her influence is still felt today — in every bright, airy and feminine space that rejects heavy drapes and dark furniture. Even decades after her passing, her legacy lives on through the casual elegance she championed.

Elsie once described herself as a “rebel in an ugly world”. At a time when late Victorian interiors were weighed down with clutter and gloom, she brought in simplicity, comfort and light. Mirrors, chinoiserie, soft color palettes and whimsical flourishes became her signature. She believed in “plenty of optimism and white paint, comfortable chairs with lights beside them, open fires on the hearth and flowers wherever they belong, mirrors and sunshine in all rooms”.

In 1913, she published The House in Good Taste, a guide to decorating that became an instant hit and remains a design classic today. De Wolfe was the one who proved that pale color schemes, painted woodwork and floral chintz could be not only stylish but timeless. She introduced the use of painted trellis as wallcovering, animal-print carpets and mirrored walls — elements still used by designers around the world.

Interior of Elsie De Wolfe' music pavilion looking out on to the pool , The Villa Trianon, painted by William Bruce Ellis Ranken
The Villa Trianon painted by William Bruce Ellis Ranken

Elsie De Wolfe’s Career

In 1887, de Wolfe formed a partnership with Elisabeth “Bessie” Marbury, a prominent literary agent. Together, they transformed their shared residence on Irving Place by replacing the dark, heavy furnishings typical of the Victorian era with lighter, more inviting decor. This successful endeavor inspired de Wolfe to pursue interior decoration professionally. In 1905, she secured her first major commission to design the interiors of the Colony Club, New York’s inaugural social club for women, with the support of architect Stanford White and her influential social circle.

The triumph of the Colony Club project catapulted de Wolfe into high demand among affluent clients, including notable figures such as industrialist Henry Clay Frick. By 1913, her burgeoning reputation enabled her to establish a substantial studio on Fifth Avenue. De Wolfe’s design philosophy emphasized simplicity and suitability, advocating for interiors that were both elegant and comfortable. She favored light fabrics, pale color schemes, and practical furnishings, often incorporating mirrors to enhance natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Her work not only revolutionized interior aesthetics but also laid the foundation for interior decoration as a recognized profession.

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Tea House, New York

Hollywood’s Favourite Designer

Fleeing Paris ahead of World War II, Elsie de Wolfe settled in Los Angeles, where her refined and airy aesthetic captivated the film industry’s elite. Her clientele included notable figures such as Countess Dorothy di Frasso, for whom she designed a Beverly Hills villa. De Wolfe’s influence extended beyond private residences; she also served as a set decoration adviser for films like The Razor’s Edge,further cementing her status as Hollywood’s goto designer during its golden age.

Notable clients: The Colony Club, Hope Hampton, Anne Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor, Condé Nast.

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Marlene Dietrich Home, Beverly Hills

Elsie de Wolfe’s Most Famous Designs

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Colony Club, New Work
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Villa Trianon, Versailles
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Adelaide Frick's Boudoir, New York City’s Upper East Side
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Marlene Dietrich Home, Beverly Hills

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And you? What do you think of Elsie de Wolfe’s design style? Do you like it?

Stay tuned to our Journal for exclusive insights, expert advice and timeless elegance.

 

You might also like: Rustic Canyon Residence: A Tribute to Richard Neutra Design

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Armchairs Upgrade- Living Room

Armchair: Upgrade Your Décor With This Eye-Catching Piece!

Armchairs: When it comes to furnishing a room, one of the essential pieces of furniture to have. While sofas typically take center stage in the living room, armchairs provide an extra seating option that can make up the difference between a living space that feels bare and one that looks inviting and welldesigned.

Armchairs come in so many different styles that they can fit into any homecor, while adding to the overall design style of the room.

A well-chosen armchair is capable of injecting boldness and elegance into any space, and it can be the living room, bedroom, balcony or even the bathroom.

The first thing to consider when choosing an armchair for any room is the design style. From classic to modern, there is an armchair to fit any design and theme.

A good tip for choosing the furniture correctly is to be aware of the space where it will be allocated. If it’s a very large space, for example, you can choose a big armchairs. In smaller spaces, like apartments, it’s ideal to choose only one piece with a striking personality to not to give the impression of too much information in the environment.

Armchair Upgrade- Living Room

Galatea Armchair by Malabar

Therefore, we have separated in this article some types of armchairs that fit in different rooms in the house to inspire you:

1. Bedroom Armchairs

Armchair Upgrade- Bedroom
Armchair Upgrade- Bedroom

Armchairs can provide the perfect piece of furniture to complete and cohesively tie together the look of a room. The color, size and fabric of the armchair will make an impact on the look and feel of a room, so selecting one that fits stylishly with the existing space is essential.

An armchair can become the central and most important piece of the room.

In the bedroom, if there is not much space, the corner chair can take on the function of lateral support of the bed for books and small objects. It’s even capable of adding visual comfort to the space.

Inspire Pieces:

loren armchair 1

Loren Armchair by Ottiu

romy armchair 1 2

Romy Armchair by Ottiu

2. Armchairs for a Closet

Armchair Upgrade- Closet
Armchair Upgrade- Closet

Adding a few carefully chosen armchairs to your closet renovation can make all the difference in the atmosphere and functionality of your space. Aesthetically, armchairs are both highly desirable and versatile.

By making a single armchair the central piece of your closet design, you can draw attention to its design elements while also pairing it with other armchairs and furnishings to create a more unified look. Even if you only have a corner of the closet to accessorize, armchairs can still play an integral role.

In the closet, the armchair will have a utility purpose because it serves as a support when dressing. But that does not mean that they need to be boring. So bet on comfortable and style models, and make sure it doesn’t just become a support for used clothes!

3. Living room Armchairs

Armchair Upgrade- Living Room
Armchair Upgrade- Living Room

Although it may seem like a small addition, armchairs can instantly transform a balcony into a cozy area. Not to mention, theyre incredibly versatile. Quality armchairs come in a range of colours, from neutral colours for a minimalist look, to bright shades to liven up the area.

Plus, armchairs dont just come in solid color, but you can select from a variety of patterns to fit the style of your home.

Whether youre looking for classic prints or bold geometrics, armchairs are an easy way to embody the look youre going for.

The living room asks for striking pieces so is the perfect place to abuse the scenic chairs. When choosing a lounge chair, you create an invitation that makes your visitors feel free to stay longer in that environment.

Inspire Pieces:

Armchair Upgrade- Peggy

Peggy Armchair by Ottiu

Armchair Upgrade- Moore

Moore Armchair by Wood Tailors Club

4. Bathroom Armchairs

Armchair Upgrade- Bathroom
Armchair- Upgrade Bathroom

Armchairs come in a dizzying array of shapes, sizes, styles, materials, and colours, so whatever your taste, theres sure to be an armchair to suit. Contemporary armchairs often feature neutral shades, sleek silhouettes.

In the bathroom, the armchairs will have a more figurative feature, focused on aesthetics, but they can also serve as support while you are getting ready to leave the house. Dare on colours and fabrics and think of materials that will not create mold with the presence of moisture.

5. Balcony Armchairs

Armchair Upgrade- Balcony
Armchair Upgrade- Balcony

The Balcony is a versatile and often underestimated space in the home. Not only is it the perfect spot to enjoy the warm summer breeze, but it can be used as an extra living space for family and friends. Of all the items you can put on the balcony, the most practical and stylish choice is armchairs.

On balconies, hammocks and wooden armchairs are ideal thanks to the strength and durability of the material. Since it doesn’t spoil even when exposed to the sun and rain. And as the balcony environment is conducive to relaxing, using stripped models make the difference.

Inspire Pieces:

Armchair Upgrade- Crockford

Crockford Armchair by Woodtailors Club

william rocking armchair 1 1

William Rocking Armchair by Wood Tailors Club

FINALLY, WHAT’S YOUR OPINION ABOUT ARMCHAIRS? ARE YOU SO IN LOVE AS WE ARE? IF YOU WANT TO KEEP BEING INSPIRED, STAY TUNED TO OUR BLOG SO YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE TRADE SHOW AND DÉCOR IDEAS.

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bar chairs

Bar Chairs: Tips For You To Make The Best Choice

The termbar chairs refers to chairs designed specifically for the bar counter. Traditionally, bar seating consisted of tall stools, but there are more options available on the market today. From comfortable chairs with armrests to swivel chairs that make it easy to enjoy conversation, you can find all sorts of bar chairs to suit your needs and style.

Choosing bar chairs is a more than fundamental step in the design of a charming project for your business. This is because the bar chair and all furniture make up the image of your establishment and thus can also serve to attract more customers.

Generally, most customers want to have experiences that motivate them to return to the establishment. When people enter an environment, they want to feel welcomed and with the certainty that they have chosen the best alternative.

This feeling, of course, is also linked to several other aspects, such as good service, competitive prices, and so on.

Bar Chairs contributes on the composing of a considerable portion of the visual communication that you do with the clientele. It is also these pieces that give the consumer comfort to feel good and stay in place. Bar chairs allow customers to move about easily, making them more comfortable and social.

Not to mention, bar chairs also add a stylish and contemporary touch to any restaurants decor.

Certainly, beauty must be taken into account, but you cannot forget the setting and the general organization of the place. Considering factors such as comfort and practicality.

The furniture carries an importance that combines style, functionality and strategy with the environment. Therefore, it’s essential to choose carefully, since it can be your biggest differential in relation to competitors.

For this reason, we have selected some bar chairs taking into account their characteristics to help you with the choice of furniture in your establishment and make all the difference in attracting customers.

1) Comfortable bar chairs

A very important factor for bar stool is comfort. We can say that this factor can be decisive as to the time that the consumer will stay in the establishment. In other words, the more comfortable the bar chair is, the greater the chances of the customer staying in your business for a long time and consequently the greater the consummation.

When shopping for bar chairs, look for chairs that provide adequate lumbar support and a comfortable seat. Leather bar stools with cushioning provide an extra layer of comfort, as well as a classic look.

Bar chairs should also be sturdy and ergonomically designed to provide good back support, a good footrest, and adjustable height to suit the needs of customers. Additionally, consider features such as swivelling or armrests for added comfort.

2) Style

The style of pub stool goes far beyond colors and coverings. It must be contained throughout the environment. So, make sure that the layout of the tables and chairs matches not only between each other, but also with the rest of the place: ornaments, facade, painting, design, etc.

Think, above all, about the composition of the project. For example, mixing some furniture materials is an interesting alternative that highlights the style of your bar. Remember that the composition must be in balance to not over do it.

3) Functional bar chairs

Thinking about functionality when we talk about swivel bar chairs, is the fact that they can offer different applications in terms of usability, changing usage, service dynamics, among other aspects. It’s even valid to have a little daring in this regard, to add more value to your business.

For example, bar chairs with additional supports and compartments designed for utensils can make serving easier. A chair or bench with support for bags can also enrich the experience of those who frequent the environment.

4) Practicability 

When we talk about practicality, the ideal is to have bar chairs with good mobility. Therefore, bet on bar stools made with lightweight materials to make mobility easier. If moving furniture is not practical, you and your team are likely to spend a lot of time on these basic routine tasks.

FINALLY, WHAT’S YOUR OPINION ABOUT  BAR CHAIR TIPS? ARE YOU SO IN LOVE AS WE ARE? IF YOU WANT TO KEEP BEING INSPIRED, STAY TUNED TO OUR BLOG SO YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE TRADE SHOW AND DÉCOR IDEAS.

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