new england finery autumn 2011
DESCRIPTION
The power of color + design, Old York Decorator Show House, do-it-yourself decorating, New England design authors and moreTRANSCRIPT
fineryNew England
MAGAZ INE
Autumn 2011
In this issue ...All of a sudden it is autumn and time seems to bespeeding up. Gone are the slow-paced days ofsummer, yet we in New England are determined toenjoy what is left of our warm and sunny days.
In this fourth issue of New England Finery, there area couple of special photo shoots that capturedsome unique properties during summer vacation.One belongs to the family of a local homeownerwho did-it-herself with magazine-worthy results.The other, is a collection of spaces from an annualsummer treat, the Old York Decorator Show House.
A visit to the MET in New York, a trip to the BostonDesign Center, an author’s lunch with a group ofNew England bloggers ... these are just a few ofthe ways we spent our summer. Look for the fullstories inside this issue. But there is a slight twist.
Our features will be presented in a novel new way... in chapters. When you open a digital magazinedo you feel compelled to absorb the entire issue inone sitting? We want you to take your time and fitit into your schedule at a leisurely pace. No needto rush. Flip the pages, enjoy the brilliant photos(special thanks goes to Michael J. Lee) and clickthrough to get more in-depth information on thestories and businesses that interest you. The issuewill unfold over the course of a few days. Read alittle each day or if you prefer, save it all till theend. We hope you enjoy it either way!
Up first: discover my editor’s picks that highlight therole of color and design in improving lives. Plus geta sneak peek of the summer design show in York,Maine. Stay tuned or subscribe for more to come!
Yvonne Blackereditor/creative directorof New England Finery
www.yvonneblacker.comwww.designvignettes.blogspot.com
ELIZ
ABE
TH W
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PH
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Yvonne
The Write ExpressionC U S T O M D E S I G N E D I N V I T A T I O N S
A T N E W E N G L A N D F I N E L I V I N G
10 6 S O U T H M A I N S T R E E T
M I D D L E T O N , M A S S A C H U S E T T S
P H O N E 9 7 8 . 7 7 7 . 8 5 3 5
W W W. T H E W R I T E - E X P R E S S I O N . C O M
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2In this Issue:Editor’s Letter
5Contributors
8 –12Editor’s Picks:The power ofcolor + design
14 – 33Design Point:The 22nd Annual Old YorkDecorator Show House
34 – 40Design Notes at the BDC:Phoebe Lovejoy togetherwith Gerald Pomeroy
42– 44New England Bookshelf:from iconic to ironic
45Blogger-praise forHolly Becker’s Decorate
46– 65OMG Decorating:You can do it!
68 – 73McQueen at the METby Pamela N. Simoneau
76 –77Girl’s Night Out:Swap Soiree withhosts Susan Kanoffand Monique Johnson
78 – 81Open House:Professional staging tipsby Sandra Biondo
83– 84The Dog Listener:Kathy Corneau of Balanced and Behaved
86 – 87New Engand Fine Living:What’s New for Fall
On our cover ...
Old York Decorator Show House“Woodbridge Library” designed byF.D. Hodge Interiors, Boston, MAphotographed by Michael J. Lee
MAGAZ INE
Autumn 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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36
69
24
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New England
Michael J. LeePhotography
cover photo; 6, 7,10,11,13 – 40, 46 – 64
As a former interior designer – having participated in showhouses at Kips Bay, Takashimaya and Osterville over the years– I’ve grown to respect and admire designers willing toreveal their true selves when creating a show house space.Without a client to filter their ideas, show houses can be puredesign at its best. Behind the lens, photographing the YorkShow House for New England Finery Magazine, I spent quitesome time trying to understand each designer’s intent. Withtypically only one shot required, the decision behind aparticular angle takes on added precedence. Shootingthe York show at Emerson House, which used to be an oldtavern, was very exciting but challenging at the same timewith its low ceilings. Upon learning the beautifully detailedspace of Frank Hodge would be the cover for this issue, wellI was ecstatic. I have long been an admirer of Frank’s work.
The idea to pair a designer with years of experience with anewer designer arose from my observations over the yearsof how giving the New England community of designers canbe. Gerald Pomeroy and Phoebe Lovejoy had never metbefore. Having the opportunity to introduce them andwatching the two interact, laughing and enjoying eachother while I photographed them, was a true testament tothe wonderful ethic of our New England designers, whoseknowledge and diversity is what makes photographing inNew England such a treat for me.
Warm Regards,
Michael J. Lee
CON T R I B U TOR PAG E
Sandra Biondopages 78–81
Greg Premru Photographypage 42
Pamela N. Simoneaupages 68–73
Susan Kanoffpages 76–77
Photography by Corinna Spinalepages 83– 85, 88
More than just a pretty face.
It’s difficult to explain exactly how applying colors to your skincan affect your mood and energy level, but they do. By usingcolored essential oils, colored clays and state-of-the-art LEDtechnology, the personal care professionals at BodiScienceHolistic Day Spa in Beverly treat much more than the epidermis.After one of their chroma therapeutic facials, rest assured youwill leave with both a dewey face and an inner glow.
Bodiscience Holistic Day SpaCummings Center, Beverly, Massachusettswww.bodiscience.com
T H E P O W E R O F C O L O R !
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Editor’ s Picks
Our treatments are based
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spirit. They are not luxuries.
They are practices that are
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Sit back and relax.
The goal of BainUltra’s Insperience Bathroom collection is tohelp you create a private sanctuary in your home — a spacedevoted to your overall wellness, a room where time andoutside pressure do not exist. It’s about a human being creatinga space, not a space created by a human being. If you wantto experience daily restorative relaxation in the privacy of yourhome, then the Vedana Personal Care unit is for you.
The Vedana Personal Care Unit Perfect for a shower or relaxation space.
Available at Designer Bath in Beverly, Massachusettswww.designerbath.com
REDstimulating and exciting
ORANGEsoothing and pain relieving
YELLOWdigestive and creative
GREENcalming and stabilizing
BLUErelaxing and soothing
VIOLETimmunizing and calm
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Imagine a sensory experience thatharmoniously blends 5 therapies. Thesounds take you away.You breathe intiny droplets of essential oils, savoringthe aromas while warmth, light, andcolor make your experience evenmore transformative.
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D E S I G N H E A L S . . .
Room to Dream Foundation gives back.
At first glance, this well-organized bedroom appears to be that of any youngboy who loves to play with big trucks and brightly colored blocks. But this freshand cheerful space is actually designed to assist a family with the day-to-daycare of their young child who has extensive medical needs.
Through the combined efforts – and donated time – of designers, architects,builders, and qualified design students, the rooms of children who are copingwith long-term illnesses are transformed into imaginative areas that allow themto receive the care they need in a cozy environment that encourages themto thrive. Room makeovers are donated to families in need and recipients arechosen from a list submitted by approved hospitals in the Greater-Boston area.
Fund raising events are held throughout the year to support the on-goingefforts of this charitable foundation. The Room to Dream Foundation has madeit their mission to ensure that children coping with health challenges have thehighest quality of life and can recover – and grow – in a space dedicated topromoting strength, imagination and self-worth.
> Read more about “Jonathan’s Project” here.
> Click here to support Room to Dream.
Michael J. Lee Photography
Editor’ s Picks
Artcoustic, now at D SCALE
There has long been a desire to camouflage speakersbut the solutions were often times more about thedisguise than the sound quality. Artcoustic, a Danishspeaker company, has created great sounding speakersthat are in the form of a truly tasteful picture frame.Within this frame you can put just about anything –custom fabrics, photos, or any number of iconic imagesfrom the exclusive Getty images collection. The solutionsare amazing, and you will feel like you are looking at apiece of fine art. They have been successfully used inboth residential and commercial applications.
D SCALE520 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MAwww.dscalemodern.com
D E S I G N S O LV E S P R O B L E M S . . .
photo credit: John Legelis
Editor’ s Picks
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617.331.2663 www.anadonohueinteriors.com
Ana Donohue Interiorsinterior design. space planning.
MICHAEL J. LEE PHOTOGRAPHY
Focal Point Fine art andstyled spacesfrom the 2011York DecoratorShow House
Sea WorthyLiving room focal pointsMarcye Philbrook, Marcye Philbrook Design Studio, Kittery, Mainemarcyephilbrook.comOil painting: Wendy Turner
Favorite moments:
• smooth finishes and fluid seaweed-like shapes• punctuated with random bits of organic textures• beach-inspired with soft sky blues, seafoam greens,
frothy whites and golden tans
Design take away: go bold with oversized art and accessories
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Black and TanStudy in the Tavern fireplaceMichaele Boehm & Kacey Graham, Bedford [email protected]
Favorite moments:
• black and tan with rich gold finishes like a tall glass of ale• menswear-inspired tufted ottoman with scallop nailhead trim• gathered birch branches in tall black wicker baskets• super white ceiling with high-gloss white beams
Design take away: fill your fireplace with a cauldron sizebasket topped with verdant green moss for visual drama
Relaxed French FlairNext page: Kitchen mantelMeredith Bohn Interior Design, Hollis, NHmlbinteriordesign.com
Original acrylic and watercolor painting“Tea Cup and Saucer” by Olivia Grace
Favorite moments:
• black and white provincial toile wall covering by Thibault• smart black stripes add another layer of architectural detail• chairs by the fireplace invite cozy conversation
Design take away: add relaxed charm with casual vignettes
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Sweet AsymmetryThe dining room fireplaceDiane Hughes, Diane Hughes Interiors, Rye, [email protected]
Embossed architecture speaks for itself in this serenedining area enveloped top to bottom in a soft-buttercreamwhite. Curvy, dark wood furnishings provide visual contrastwhile mimicking the fluid lines of the architectural relief.
Favorite moments:
• repetition of cubed vases with delicate orchid blooms• willowy candlesticks paired with vapor thin tapers• diminutive sized peephole-like landscape print
Design take away: repeat a series of small items tocreate one big moment
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“Fetch my slippers and I promise to scratch behind your ears.”
< Large dog portrait: Dutch Touch Art
Best FriendsBoy’s BedroomJane Derby, J. Covington Interior Design, N. Hampton, NHjcovington.com
A collected space with English influences and Hermesorange accents, this young boy’s retreat makes four-leggedfriends – and those who love them – feel right at home.
Favorite moments:
• pheasant feathers arranged in large silver trophy• leopard print slipper chairs with black trimmed skirt• no-fuss window treatments and floor coverings• flannel bedding paired with needlepoint pillows
Design take away: surround yourself with what you love
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Summer GuestsGuest bedroom fireplace Georgie McGowan, Georgie’s Home & Garden,York, MEgeorgieshomeandgarden.com
Favorite moments:
• sandpipers, stones, and beach grass filled fireplace• sunny, yellow striated walls trimmed in crisp white• small sitting char recovered with Robert Allen fabric• dune-colored painted wooden floors
Design take away: repurpose a non-working fireplaceas a mini stage for story telling
Luxurious ReposeWoodbridge library fireplaceFrank Hodge, F.D. Hodge Interiors, Boston, MAfdhodgeinteriors.com
Fireplace wall and bookshelves by Shore-Built Woodworkingshore-built.com
Sleek and smooth white cabinetry stand juxtaposed withcharming antiques in this graciously appointed reading room.
Favorite moments:
• fragile ostrich eggs collected in an antique fire basket• brilliant blue accessories, gold accents and rich textiles• chocolate brown Venetian plaster walls
Design take away: combine modern with vintage for ahigh-functioning, fresh looking space with lots of character
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choose artwork with the same proportions as thearchitecture below, accessorize with similar colors
Above: Living room fireplace Anne Cowenhoven, Accent & Design, Inc.accentdesignmaine.comartwork: George Marshall Store Gallery,York, ME
Opposite page: Master bedroom focal pointBarbara Vaughn and Marianne Mooers, American Traditions, Inc.americantraditionsinc.com
Final tip ...
Designers Phoebe Lovejoy and Gerald Pomeroyat Studio 534 in the Boston Design Center
Studio 534 furnishings from Link Outdoor:Sand Dollar Sofa, Armless Lounge Chair,Coffee Table, and Round Side Table
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Design notes at theBoston Design CenterTwo talented Boston-area designers,Phoebe Lovejoy and Gerald Pomeroy,share their thoughts on how to “make itwork” in the business of interior design.
Photography by Michael J. Lee • Interview by Yvonne Blacker
What made you decide to be an interior designer?
Phoebe: I have always had a strong emotional reaction to beautifullydone spaces, objects, and textures. I cannot help but want to sharethese with others. I truly believe that a sophisticated, well-plannedand beautiful interior can affect people. It is not always easy to putyour finger on what it is about a space that may take your breathaway, but you know it because you want to stick around and enjoyit a little longer. Rooms like this have a point of view; I love creatingspaces for clients that represent their own point of view.
Gerald: From a very early age I had a need to express myselfcreatively. I was always fascinated with the relationship betweenspaces and objects, and of course balance, proportion and scale.
How would you define your personal design aesthetic?
Phoebe: Classic, clean, balanced design rooted in traditionblended with today’s current trends.
Gerald: That’s a tough one, for I feel that I’m always reassessing,reviewing and inspired by what I see on pretty much a daily basis,and as such, my design aesthetic is always, I hope, evolving.However, if I had to classify myself, I would have to say transitionalwith classic leanings.
MIC
HA
EL J
.LEE
“Incorporating pieces with age andhistory inevitably raises the bar on anygiven design theme.”
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s with age andses the bar on any.” – GERALD POMEROY
geraldpomeroydesigngroup.com
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Tell us about a favorite project that you are currently working on ...
Phoebe: I am currently designing a home for a childhood friend. We spentevery summer together sailing, playing tennis and running around barefoot ina small seaside village near Gloucester, MA. I wanted to create a point of viewfor her that was based on colors and textures I remember from both our homes.The colors are coral, turquoise and the blues of the ocean. The textures are seagrass, grass cloth and linen mixed with big floral prints. We used these elementsin modern, livable ways.
Gerald: These past two years we’ve had a wonderful adventure designing avery contemporary space in Florida for Boston clients who purchased a secondhome there. The location was so inspiring – 25 ft. glass frontage overlooking theIntercoastal and the open ocean with a 1,000 sq. ft. balcony to boot. We did acombination of vintage and modern pieces that felt so right for the area. Myclients are so happy, and yet the space is so different from the classicallyinspired project we designed for these clients three years ago in Boston. All inall, very satisfying.
www.lovejoydesigns.net
What types of modern technological advancements/ gadgets/social media platforms do you rely on to run your business? Whattraditional ways of doing business/ presenting to clients are stillan important part of your daily routine?
Phoebe: I recently purchased an iPad. I use this device to showcasepresentations to clients. I download all my presentations onto iBooks now.The color and picture quality represent objects and schemes really well,which makes it a great selling tool when we are looking at items. We canzoom in on a chair leg detail for example to get a better look. I could neverget as good a quality representation on a print-out from my 6-year-old inkjet.
I am currently updating my website which is a huge platform for reachingout. It is a place where people can see a portfolio of work done as well asget to know me. Interior design is a relationship-based profession. Creatinga family’s home is a very personal experience. I use the website as a waypeople can get to know Lovejoy Designs aesthetic and beliefs. I also havea blog called “Design Lab” that I update twice monthly. I use the blog tocreate original projects that people can try at home. I write it in hopes thatpeople will get inspired about design and understand why it is importantto our daily lives.
My most vital traditional form of running the business is relying on local talent.I couldn’t design without them. From painters to the furniture makers to theBoston Design Center’s numerous showrooms, they each help in the creationof the beautiful and the functional, which makes my rooms complete. I amindebted to them, and forever thankful to have these resources that help uscreate our visions.
Gerald: We rely on the internet; to be able to have at your finger tips unlimitedresources and options has become a way of life as a tool on each of myprojects. The face to face interaction with a client is always – and will alwaysbe – the most important traditional element. To hear what they say – andsometimes what they don’t say – is always the first step to my forming thedesign concept.
What are your thoughts on incorporating antiques or vintageobjects into your designs?
Phoebe: I am a huge fan. I like rooms that evoke a feeling of being collectedover time. Rooms that have layers of texture and color are the best. Andoften times the quality of older objects is very well crafted and thoughtful. Ilove places like Brimfield Antique Fair or old antique markets. What may looklike a large pile of junk is usually where you can find some real jewels.
Gerald: This has always been a signature element of almost every projectsince I started my business in 1995. Incorporating pieces with age and historyinevitably raises the bar on any given design theme. More recently I havebeen incorporating more modern or contemporary pieces with vintage orantique ones. The result is elegant, sophisticated and speaks volumes aboutmy design approach at this time of my career.
What advice would you give toyoung designers looking to startout in the design business?
Phoebe: Project management is a must!When I was in design school at New YorkSchool of Interior Design, Bunny Williamscame to speak to our class. I rememberher saying, she spent only 20% of her timecreating and designing! The rest of thetime was spent in project management.If you think interior design is all aboutmatching colors and picking out beautifulfurniture, you may be surprised. It is that,but also very strong in the business side ofthings. We owe it to our clients to createbeautiful spaces that are done on timeand on budget. Management of theprocess is fundamental in interior design.
Gerald: I can’t state enough how invalu-able it is to work for an established designerwhen starting your career. The day to dayactivities are something that can only belearned by experiencing it.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Phoebe: I am very excited to be partici-pating on the Interior Design Committeefor Young Collectors Night at the New York58th Annual Winter Antiques Show. Theantique show will run from January 20 -29,2012 at the Park Avenue Armory on theUpper East Side in New York City.
Jacky Garretson, a textile and productdesigner, and I are working on a lineof textiles for fashion and the home.Stay tuned to the Lovejoy Designs blog“The Design Lab” for further details onBoston Thread!
Gerald: I consider myself so fortunate tobe able to express myself creatively ona daily basis in this manner, in the field ofinterior design. Every project is different –every client is different – and as a result,it keeps me on my toes and evolving.The excitement is constant. m
Studio 534 is a multi-line showroomoffering a selection of traditional andcontemporary product never beforeseen in the Boston Design Center.
PHOTO CREDITS THIS PAGE: YVONNE BLACKER
New England BookshelfAutumn is a great time to curl up indoors witha new design book. Here’s our “get cozy”list, written by some New England authors ...
GREG PREMRU PHOTOGRAPHY
Hartwell Tavern, Minute Man National Historic Park, Lincoln, Massachusetts
New England Icons is a collection of essays that bring life to the sightsthat make New England unlike any other place on earth. Alongsidethe 23 short essays are beautiful, full-color photographs by notedarchitectural photographer Greg Premru. New England Icons engagesreaders with fascinating stories guaranteed to blow the dust off suchfamiliar New England features as stone walls, lobster boats, sugarhouses,roof walks, saltbox houses, skating ponds, armories, and many others.
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If you appreciatehomes with a past ...
New England IconsShaker Villages, Saltboxes, StoneWalls and Steeples
Written by Bruce IrvingPhotography by Greg PremruWith a Foreword by Norm AbramPublished by The Countryman Press
If you love hunting forvintage treasures ...
Killer Stuff and Tons of MoneySeeking History and Hidden Gems in Flea-Market America
Written by Maureen StantonPublished by The Penguin Press
Through one dealer’s journey from thepopulist mayhem of flea markets tothe rarefied realm of auctions, Stantonunveils the rich, often outrageous sub-culture of antiques and collectibles.
> Author Maureen Stanton will be signingcopies of her book at the BostonAntiques & Design Show & Sale onOctober 15 -16th. Click here for details.
If you don’twant to makedecoratingmistakes ...
101 Things I HateAbout Your HouseA Premier Designer TakesYou on a Room-by-RoomTour to Transform Your Homefrom Faux Pas to Fabulous
Written by James Swanwith Carol BeggyIllustrations by Stanley A. MeyerPublisher: Health Communications, Inc.
> Want to hear about the bookdirectly from the author? Clickhere to listen to his online interviewwith The Skirted Roundtable.
If you want to learndo-it-yourself style ...
Decorate1,000 professional design ideasfor every room in your home
Written by Holly Beckerwith Joanna CopestickPhotographs by Debi Treloar
Decorate is a different kind ofdecorating book. Rather thanconcentrating on one trademarklook or particular design aesthetic,it focuses on ideas – more than1,000 of them – for new ways totransform your home.
I had taken her blog class when I firststarted DomestiKated Life, so she wasa big influence in my early days ofblogging. And my admiration for Hollyhas only grown after reading thisbook – it is packed with gorgeousinteriors and great design advice.
– DomestiKated Life
When I took Holly’s “Blogging Your Way” class, Ilearned a great deal about blogging, and alsoabout how generous people can be.
– Journey Chic
As Holly took time to write a beautiful book(in just 8 months), she kept her blog goingdaily, she moved to another country, andhas taught classes. Admittedly, she pointsout, she often works 100+ hours per week,but she has kept all the balls in the air andI found inspiration in that. – Studio G
Holly is super-talented, very creative and incrediblynice! Her blog is a huge inspiration for loads and loadsof people. The “Decorate” book is beautiful, chock-fullof ideas and absolutely inspiring. So a must-have foranyone interested in any kind of design. Even thoughthe book is about interiors, the color palettes andtextures and photography can inspire anyone!
– Gorgeous and Fun Things
N E W E N G L A N D D E S I G N B L O G G E R S A R E TA L K I N G A B O U T . . .
Meeting Holly Becker, author of Decorate
Decorate is an inspiring decorating bookon its own, made even more inspiring tome personally because decor8 was thevery first blog I started reading daily, morethan six years ago!
That is what I find so meaningful aboutthis book – the way in which as decor8readers we can truly feel that we playeda small part in bringing this book to life, ifonly by following along on Holly’s journeyeach step of the way. – Lolalina
PHOTO CREDIT: YVONNE BLACKER
> Read Holly’s blogdecor8blog.com
> Click here for photosfrom our blogger’sluncheon with Holly
She was so personal andfunny during her presenta-tion and talked about howevery room should havethat one piece which is“wrong"”or doesn’t quite fitin. I could not agree more,it’s usually the one pieceguests are drawn to inthe space! – CreateGirl
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Yes, you canDO-IT-YOURSELF
After a friend told me she had just been to an amazinghouse that was so perfectly decorated that it belonged ina design magazine, a light bulb went off. Another friendconfirmed it, “Yes, you have to see this home! They have awrapping paper room, a movie theatre, an indoor skatingpractice room, a home gym, a sauna room ...” the list wenton and on. No one thought it was over the top, they simplyappreciated the fact that this home had it all. When I heard“bedroom-size second floor laundry room with table devotedto folding clothes” I knew I had to see it for myself.
A couple weeks later I arranged a visit. The homeowner,Suzanne Iovanna, was more than happy to give me a tour– she and her husband, Michael, had the home built basedon plans they chose for themselves and their two children,Alexandra and Michael. From the very beginning, theythoughtfully determined how to use each space. It took afew years to get it finished top to bottom – there are fourfloors – but it was just that, completely “finished.” In fact, itlooked like a stylist for a magazine had just been there toplace those zhushy items that make a room look fab onfilm. “Did you use a decorator?” I inquired. “No, I choseeverything myself.” I was impressed. And I knew I had tocome back with a professional photographer.
Written by Yvonne Blacker • Photographed by Michael J. Lee
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I looked through magazines, first, to get ideas afound the ones I was going to use, then had them custom-mCorners. I love colors and patterns, so it w
get ideas about window treatments,then had them custom-made at Calicoso it was easy for me to pick out materials.
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The kids loown space to be with their fr
love the play room because it gives them theirwn space to be with their friends and hang out.
Michael J. Lee Photography
The guest rJapanese motif in honor of mmother
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guest room was designed in apanese motif in honor of my latether-in-law who loved to travel.
The thought has crossed my mind aboutbecoming a designer. I have helpedmany of my friends finish their homes.
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Get magazine-readychecklist: stylist tipsto try in your home
M plenty of accent pillows
M clear acrylic or lucite pieces
M ceramic garden stools
M animal prints (in moderation)
M fresh flowers and organic objects
M texture, symmetry, pops of color
M stage the room for use
People are amazed whenthey see the wrapping room,and always say they want toput one in their own home.
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The pool house is great forentertaining in the summer.
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I think all people have the
ability to decorate, but some
get overwhelmed. They need
to take one room at a time.
Favorite sources:Children’s portraits in pool house:Mirasolo Photography, Wakefield, MA
Window treatments and fabric:Calico Corners, Beverly, MA
Flower arrangements:Gregory’s, Wakefield, MA
Furnishings and accessories:Redbird Trading Companyand Wishbasket, Newburyport, MA
Magazines: Traditional Home, Veranda
– S U Z A N N E I O V A N N A
MET retrospective presented the essence of opposites.
A L E X A N D E R M C Q U E E N : S AVAG E B E AU T Y
Everyone is buzzing about
Alexander McQueen; thanks to
the extraordinary show “Savage
Beauty” that was on display at
the Metropolitan Museum of Art
in New York this past summer.
A record-breaking 660,000 people
visited the late artist’s retrospective,
sponsored by the MET’s Costume
Institute, making it the museum’s most
visited fashion exhibition to date.
I popped into Zabar’s on Manhattan’s Upper West Side
to grab some delectable
dinner-to-go for my train ride
home to Boston. While checking
out, a woman noticed my MET
shopping bag and asked
“How was the museum?”
“Fabulous,” I replied, as I rifled
through my purse.“Let me guess ...”
she sighed,“Alexander McQueen.”
Text by Pamela N. Simoneau
Photography provided by theMetropolitan Museum of Art
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What is it that drew people to the McQueen spectacle?
Conceivably it was his unconventional and provocative assertion thatopposites not only attract, they coexist.“There is beauty in the grotesque,”McQueen believed. His unique collections delivered eye-catching, oftenpolitically-loaded, ensembles.
Born Lee Alexander McQueen, most friends described him as a shy,sensitive, self-conscious man.“I never aspired to mass production,” statedMcQueen at one time, regarding his unusual fashions.Yet today, massesof people continue to admire his craftsmanship and creativity.
After leaving his London area school at age 16, McQueen took anapprenticeship with Saville Row tailors where he became known for his
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precision tailoring. Later in his career, he served as chief designer forGivenchy from 1996 to 2001. There he mastered the softer art of draping.This combination of skills served him well in his collections that linkedfashion with politics, religion, emotions and even death.
As a designer, McQueen was an artist whose canvas was the female form.During his short career, people accused McQueen of disliking women. Onthe contrary. McQueen wanted women to look and feel powerful.
For McQueen, the very pairing of opposites underscored inherent power.This power is visible in the rawness of the natural world laid bare againstthe polish of man-made materials. To demonstrate, the artist used elementalmaterials like horse hair, human hair, feathers or wood alongside satin,beads, glass or paint. Behold the blood red gown with a bodice of medicalslides descending into a bell-shaped skirt of ostrich feathers.
Power is no more evident than in the battle between life and death.McQueen created an extraordinary gown of natural and silk flowers. The modelstood shrouded – shoulder to toe – in mauve roses and hydrangea, accentedby pale peonies and greens. But it was not the sheer beauty of nature’s bestwork that intrigued the artist. It was the idea that this gown of living bloomswould eventually wither and die.
Similarly, the age-old juxtaposition of good vs. evil reduces to a power struggle.McQueen dedicated an entire line of clothing to the “Highland Rape,” a politicalstatement about the mistreatment of his Scottish ancestors by the British. This wasthe first of his collections to feature torn lace which would become one of hissignature effects.
McQueen’s runway shows featured performance art, with a message. At theconclusion of one such show, the audience witnessed the collapse of the wallsof a giant box to reveal a heavy set, nude female lounging on a chaise, withbutterflies dotting her skin or hovering around her. She sat frozen in a hauntinglight, exposing what many would consider an uncommon sentiment for fashiondesigners: that beauty comes from within.
One of the most mesmerizing images from the Costume Institute’s collection wasthe presentation of a hologram, which was used to conclude McQueen’s 1996show. In it, McQueen’s friend Kate Moss evolved from a tiny white amoeba ina sea of blackness into a life size, otherworldly yet divinely feminine creaturewrapped in a flowing gown of gauzy white. At the time, McQueen consideredmany major designers hypocritical as they were dropping the model due to acocaine scandal plastered throughout the tabloids.
Much of McQueen’s work is described as romantic, yet qualified by anotherword such as haunting, melancholic or dark. McQueen committed suicide in
February of 2010, shortly after his mother passedaway. While always tragic, suicide seems to hauntartists of provocative and influential art. Van Goghcomes to mind. It may be painfully isolating to seethe world as no one else does.
Following the staggering success of the CostumeInstitute’s widely publicized show at the MET, theMcQueen camp is considering bringing the artist’sposthumous show to London. If you missed thecollection in New York this past summer, look fornews of its resurrection: London 2013. n
McQueen Savage Beauty (2011)Metropolitan Museum, New York
> www.met.org
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342 Great RoadRoute 2AActon, MA 01720978.263.0100301 Newbury Street Route 1NDanvers, MA 01923866.784.7178
www.FirstRugs.com
The Swap Soirée
Imagine, droves of fashion-frenzied women all comingtogether to exchange clothesand accessories! That was thescene at last year’s Swap Soirée,which has become the talk ofthe Merrimack Valley. Swap Soiréefounders Wardrobe Stylist SusanKanoff and Event PlannerMonique Johnson were thrilledat the event’s success andplan to hold another swap thisNovember 3, 2011 at Chester’s atBelltower Square, 60 Island Street,Lawrence, MA.
Eco-friendly, charitable and fun,the Swap is the perfect event forthe times. Kanoff and Johnsonstarted The Swap Soirée to bringwomen together for a night ofswapping, socializing andfundraising.“As a wardrobe stylist,I encourage my clients to get ridof the pieces that they’re nolonger wearing, so I thought thata large-scale swap would be aneconomical and fun way tomove out the old clothes andbring in new! After all, onewoman’s discard is anotherwoman’s treasure!” says Kanoff.“Creating unique events is aspecialty of mine, so my goal isto make The Swap Soirée the ‘it’clothing event where women arehaving fun, finding great piecesto enhance their wardrobe whilebuilding support for otherwomen,” says Johnson.
Organizers Kanoff and Johnsonknew that they wanted to tiethe event in with a local charitythat focuses on empoweringwomen, thus the YWCA ofGreater Lawrence seemed like anatural fit. Last year’s Swap raisedover $1,000 for the organizationand this year’s goal is to increasethat number. Susan McNeff,YWCA Director of Development
G I R L’ S N I G H T O U T F O R A C A U S E
“Loved it!! I was shocked at all the designer namesthat were there as well as new pieces with the tagshanging! I absolutely can’t wait to do it again!”
– Kathy Spencer, Boxford, MA
“I got some of my favorite tops at the Swap Soirée,the selection was fantastic!”
– Heather Rogers, North Andover, MA
Photography by Linda
Event organizers Monique Johnson and Susan Kanoff at last year’s swap.
is delighted that the YWCA will againbenefit from the event.“It’s reallygratifying to hear the enthusiasm andexcitement shared by Susan andMonique to help women served by theYW through their Swap Soirée. Once theylearned about how many services areoffered by the YW to help communitywomen – in particular for batteredwomen and their children – they seemeven more committed to the successof their event. Kanoff and Johnson wereboth honored by the YWCA last May andreceived the agency’s prestigious Tributeto Women Award for their efforts.
This year’s Swap Soirée is expected todraw well over 200 women from theMerrimack Valley and beyond. Last year,women came from as far away as Maineand western Massachusetts for the event.If you’d like to attend The Swap Soirée,tickets can be purchased online athttp://swapsoiree.eventbrite.com for$30.00. Swap details are also listedon the site. m
> Click here to orderyour tickets to thisyear’s Swap Soirée
Unswapped clothingwill be donated to Second Chancesin Somerville, MA
For more information pleasecontact Susan Kanoff (978) 807-0577or Monique Johnson (978) 771-1061
The mission of the YWCA of Lawrence:www.ywcalawrence.org
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“Today’s buyers are demandinggiven the state of the real estatemarket. One needs to use everyresource available.”
– Sandra Biondo, professional home stager
before
Setting theStage for ResaleWhy is it important to “stage” a propertybefore you sell it? This question gives rise tomany answers but the number one reason isthat your home will sell much faster if you do.Statistics have shown this to be true over andover. What is “staging a property for sale?”Simply put it is enhancing the physical lookof the home. Taking the best from the existingspace and making each room appealing toa larger audience.
Currently my focus is on helping homeownersunderstand the importance of staging theirhomes prior to putting the home on the market.I believe it is vital to stage before the realtorlists the home and before the pictures of thehome are shown on the Internet. Today’s buyersare demanding given the state of the realestate market. One needs to use everyresource available.
The following is a list of some important thingsthat need to be done if a homeowner wantsto reap the maximum profit from the sale ofthe home.
Most important is to “depersonalize” thehome. This is perhaps the most difficult partfor homeowners. Stagers ask owners to takemany of their personal items out of the home.This is often painful for the owner. Ownersneed to understand that although their itemsare reflective of the lives they live it is oftendistracting for a potential buyer to see how“their” lifestyle would fit into the home. Somaking the home more generic will oftendraw a more varied group of buyers.
Text and photos:Sandra M. Biondo
Staging tips ...
1. It is often necessary to paint the rooms ofthe home with a soft neutral color. This willexpand the space and make the roomsmore appealing.
2. Minimize clutter. This is also very important.A good floor plan is essential and attractive.
3. A good cleaning either by the owners orby a professional cleaning service is wellworth the effort.
4. Often the stager will be able to use someof the owners furnishings if they are in goodcondition. However many stagers havetheir own inventory and will bring in newerfurnishings for a fresher look.
5. Accessories such as artwork, floral arrange-ments, area rugs, linens, decorative pillows,etc. are used to create a finished look.
6. Pricing out a staging job covers a widespectrum depending on what the needsare of the homeowner and their budget.
7. Find a stager who has experience and isprofessional. Ask to see their portfolio andask for references.
8. Keep in mind that the initial investmentan owner makes in having their propertystaged properly will almost always be theone factor that truly “closes the deal.”
Sandra M. BiondoAccredited Staging ProfessionalSandra Biondo [email protected]
In the interior design industry for over 22 years,Sandra has worked on many projects includingresidential homes and commercial properties. Shehas completed work on five show houses for theOld York Historical Society in York, Maine along withchairing “Reflecting on Danvers History ThroughInterior Design” for the Danvers Historical Societyat Tapley Hall in Danvers, Massachusetts in 2010.
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Celebrating
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The Dog ListenerDogs have always been a passion of mine.I have always been the one others call uponto watch their dog when they are out of town,and I natually find myself taking walks withfriends and family dogs for the fun of it.I adopted a dog from the pound some yearsago and he was deaf and had quite a strongnature about him. I learned to sign and tocommunicate with him without using words.
– KATHY CORNEAU, BALANCED AND BEHAVED DOG TRAINING
Photography: Corinna SpinaleText: Yvonne Blacker
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Kathy Corneau, owner of Balanced and Behaved Dog Training locatedon the North Shore in Massachusetts, is one of a handful of qualifiedDog Listeners in the United States. Using positive reinforcement techniquesbased on significant instruction from both Jan Fennell, the original DogListener of the UK, and Abe Mashall a K-9 Marine/Master Trainer, Kathy haslearned how to train owners to correct a dog’s behavior by understandingthe pack mentality and a dog’s need for leadership. By transferring “Alphastatus” from dog to owner, a pet can actually relax knowing that theirowner will take care of their needs.
“Do you ever feel like your dog is the one in control? Does your dogcharge through doorways, pull on walks, protect his toys or food, sleepin your bed, potty in the house and/or bark, bite, or growl excessively?Balanced and Behaved focuses on how to change a household frombeing dog-dominant to human-dominant.” By creating trusting relationshipsthat fulfill a dog’s physical, emotional and psychological needs, Kathy isable to establish a stress-free environment that eliminates inappropriatebehavior and socialization problems and brings out the best in any breed.“This is not a quick fix method it is a way of life.”
1-2-1 consultation sessions include a discussion of the owner’s observationsand concerns paired with an introduction to Amichien® Bonding, orlooking through a dog’s eyes instead of your own. Kathy guarantees thatwith an increased understanding of why dogs behave the way they do,owners can establish new patterns of communication that rely onrespect and recognition, thus creating a happy – and well-behaved –dog in a home that provides its pet with comfort, safety and joy.
www.balancedandbehaved.com
“A well trained and properly social-ized dog can be a great fortune insomeone’s life or family. When a dogis trained and socialized correctly itcan positively change the wholeatmosphere of a family or home.”
– Abe Mashal, K-9 Marine/Master Trainer
“By seeing that almost all problemsarise from a misunderstanding, oncewe appreciate that the dog is look-ing for a leader who cares for them,is kind to them and will step up tothe role of leader when they experi-ence concern or fear, we are ableto bring magic to this relationship.”
– Jan Fennell, The Dog Listener of the UK
IN-STUDIO/ ON LOCATIONSPECIALIZING IN PORTRAITS OF ANIMALS AND CHILDREN SINCE 1995
OTHER SERVICES: COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY RESTORATION GRAPHIC DESIGN AND MORE!
451R BROADWAY (INTERSECTION OF RT.1 NORTH AND RT. 129), LYNNFIELD MA
Photography By Corinna
by appointment 781.477.9903
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The Fine Living Muse
New England Fine Living10 6 S o u t h M a i n S t r e e t , M i d d l e t o n , M a s s a c h u s e t t s 9 78 - 5 3 9 - 8 2 70 w w w. n e w e n g l a n d f i n e l i v i n g . c o m
Custom Parties • Event Styling Linda Smith, our resident design muse, can help you withall of the details associated with planning the perfectparty or special event. Whether you need party themeand venue ideas or decorative touches for the eventitself, Linda can pull it all together from invitation tomenu to flower arrangements to parting favors. Pleasecall to schedule a custom party planning consultation.
Wooden Horse $25
Pair of Brass Sconces $32
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Needlepoint Dog Pillow $20 ea.
Hepplewhite Wheat Back Chair$180 each (set of 4)
Tall Black Candle Stick $29
PenelopesPetBoutique.com978-745-0566
99 Washington Street Salem, Ma 01970
© 2011 PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORINNA
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