Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Timeless Design

I stumbled across some beautiful interiors today that I had to share.
This photo just screams Miles Redd to me. Love the dark, lacquered walls and those over-the-top console, mirror and sconces. Very dramatic.

That caramel leather tufted chaise is killing me. As are that lamp and that limestone horse head sculpture.
The pops of rust orange paired with the leopard ottoman are perfection, along with the subdued artwork.

Yummy lavender velvet sofa, Asian screen and stone capital coffee tables.

The upholstered walls, ceiling and bamboo chair are all good. Very bohemian chic.
Loving how those turquoise porcelain birds contrast with the saturated purple artwork.

Does anyone else spy the color of the year, honeysuckle pink? I'm liking the mix of hippie and traditional English country home.

More velvet sofa prettiness, a gallery wall and a hint of chevron on the chair (far left almost out of frame).

A little neoclassical goodness.

Another lovely Asian screen in addition to x-base cocktail tables and ikat-covered chairs.

So, where did I run across all these beautiful interiors? An estate sale.

Well, more specifically, a stack of Architectural Digests circa 1988 and 1984 that I purchased at an estate sale. Can you believe it? All these timeless interiors are from the mid to late 80's. I must say I was pretty amazed. Now, not every home featured would fit in the timeless category, but a surprising amount did. Just an example of how the cliche "good taste is always in style" rings true. Honestly, one of the major differences I found between these photos and modern day interior shots was the lighting. It was terrible. Hard to see a lot of things because they were so poorly lit.

I picked up five issues of AD for $.25 each and an old book for $1. In addition, I also ran across this while digging around in the basement of the house and just couldn't pass it up . . . 
The frame is plastic, but it was only $15. While it looks sort of peacock blue in the photo, it's actually a really bright royal blue so I will be painting it. I've been looking for a Chinoiserie-style mirror to go in my new dark powder room. If I go that route, I'll be painting it gold/brass. However, another option is putting it in my daughter's newly painted room. If that's the case, I'll probably paint it green or a turquoise blue. Any thoughts?
Here's my dog Coco checking herself out in the mirror. I had to pick it up quickly, or it would've been toast.

While at the estate sale, a very nice man suggested this would match my hair and look fabulous on me . . . 
Sorry for the photo quality. Another iPhone photo with glaring light coming in.
I tried it on, and while it actually looked pretty decent, my freakishly long arms made it look more like a 3/4-length sleeve. The nice man suggested long gloves. I'm still thinking it over. Not even sure what kind of fur it is, but it was very soft with silk lining that was monogrammed. It was $75. Not sure if that's a good deal or not. If it's still there in a day or two maybe I'll make an offer. What do you think? It would definitely keep me warm during the rest of this very cold winter. Of course, the groundhog's predicting an early spring. Sure hope that furry rodent is right.

Sources: Architectural Digest February 1984, May 1988, June 1988, August 1988

16 comments:

Raina Cox said...

Those old issue of AD are TREASURES. Absolute treasures!

Kim@Chattafabulous said...

I'm surprised as well, Kathy - who knew the 80's could still look good. I adore the velvet sofas - not sure how well that will work with 2 kids and 3 dogs - oh and a husband, too.

Ashley said...

Great, great images--and here I thought the '80s were a dark period in interior design. Somehow a velvet sofa always gets me excited...great finds, Kathy!

Brooke @ Blueprint Bliss said...

Love these images! And they do go right along with my brass post today!

Kim said...

I'll take the pretty pink house, please. :)

That mirror is fab! I want to see a pic of you staring lovingly into it wearing that fur coat and some long white gloves. I think it would be all kinds of fun in your DD's room.

Kim said...

ummm...and what's up with your word verification? It's turned x-rated. My word was...

pinesse

!!!

TN Mimi said...

Love the mirror - a great bargain. RUN back & buy the coat - & make accent pillows!

Karena said...

Wow Kathy you did great, just the magazines are treasures!!

LOve the mirror I would see how it turns out for the powder room!

The fur would be fun with jeans and a long sleeved seater. Love it!

Come and join my amazing Giveaway from Splenderosa!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

SHERRY HART said...

OK...I want to come thrifting with you...I was going to get up early this AM and go to some estate sales but it was pouring rain...just couldn't get motivated! Love the old AD's Great pictures!

Emma at The Marion House Book said...

Great finds! Have you checked out the new AD yet? I haven't picked up the latest issue but I hear it is great.

Teresa Hatfield ~ Splendid Sass said...

Great blog. Love the neoclassical image.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Terea
xoxo

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Unknown said...

I love all of your diggin finds!! :) Absolutely, wear gloves with that coat, it will be so chic!!

Full House said...

You are so right on with most of those interiors from the 80's standing the test of time. You are such a great treasure hunter:-)

Naomi@DesignManifest said...

love that mirror!
I could tell the pics were old just based on photography... but other than that all the spaces are quite timeless.

Erin said...

That's quite an archive -- so many of those rooms would be right at home today. Now we know where all the velvet and leopard love is coming from.

Mirror is fabulous in any color. Score!