Valerie Wills Interiors

New at ArtHaus

2012-01-12T17:01:00.001-08:00

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of attending my friend, James Bacchi's, opening night for Maxine Solomon in conjunction with Men's Room. If you remember a few posts back ArtHaus was responsible for Women's Room... well this time it's the guys' turn! Here's a sneak peek but you really should go and check it out.

THE SPACE OF IN BETWEEN ~ NEW PAINTINGS BY MAXINE SOLOMON

Of Place and Belonging

40"x40" oil on canvas

Structure of the Moment

20"x20"

Oil on canvas

Times Past, Times To Come

30"x30"

Oil on canvas

MEN"S ROOM:

Eric Joyner

Shift Change

32"x22"

Limited-edition print

Franc D'Ambrosio

Deconstructed Diva

60"x36"

Acrylic on canvas

Adam Kurtzman

Honey-Dew

24"

Glitter on bronze

Photo by: Stephanie Simos

Kenney Mencher

Driveway

36"x36"

Oil on canvas

Michael Venera

Ferris Wheel

30"x30"

Digital print

* * * *

James Bacchi ~ Gallerist

ArtHaus

411 Brannan Street

San Francisco, CA 94107

james@arthaus-sf.com

http://www.arthaus-sf.com

My three favourites from Elle Decor's 2011's blogger's choice

2011-12-30T15:30:00.001-08:00

I love all of the shelter magazines.... online and in print.... and especially Elle Decor. Loved their top picks for 2011. Here are my three favourites.

First up, Lynn Nesbit's library (September issue). The sconces and orange velvet chairs are a subtle mix of old and new... and those books are just waiting to be looked at!!

Second is this beautiful office of Claiborne Swanson Frank (November issue)... working from home would be a pleasure in this beautiful space... I like the Moroccan inspired rug and the art work - it's just fresh and airy:

Finally, my third pick is this amazing Parisian apartment by Jean-Louis Deniot (May issue). I love the panelling which makes the room so elegant and chic and I adore the light fixture:

Merry Christmas to one and all

2011-12-21T12:32:00.001-08:00

Some of my favourite Christmas images and beautiful trees. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Converted millhouse, Hampshire

2011-12-04T09:23:00.001-08:00

Reading this morning's Sunday Telegraph, and checking out the "property" section I was immediately drawn to this beautiful converted millhouse in Hampshire owned by Deborah and Ric Medhurst, the owners of the childrenswear label No Added Sugar.

The couple have filled their home with contemporary art, amassed over the past decade, with pieces from Banksy, Gary Hume and Tracey Emin.

It's not all contemporary though - I love the antique armchairs but most of all the place is covered with books!

www.telegraph.co.uk

Looking for holiday gift ideas in San Francisco?

2011-11-29T11:24:00.000-08:00

If you are ever walking down 26th Street, near to the fire station, you will find my two friends Dr. Joe and Chef Bam Bam. Together they are Grandpa's Workshop, making wonderful one of a kind wooden objects such as toys, bowls and sculptures.

You don't have to head over to Noe Valley to see them either - instead go to the California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park. They are having a Holiday Crafts Fair on December 7th from 9am until 4pm. Bring the kids, enjoy Earth, Ocean and Space all under one living room.

Ho, ho, ho!

Yellow, yellow

2011-11-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

Funny thing happened today - I had a lady visit my house to see some of my work. She had already chosen an interior designer - so I really was exposing myself .... I think she did like what she saw though!

As I was sitting at my computer, I suddenly thought (as probably only designers do) that I don't have any yellow in my house!!! I took a little look on my new obsession - www.pinterest.com to find out just what I'm missing.... take a look:

Maybe a need to add a little sunshine.... we'll see.

Oast houses, England

2011-11-14T21:58:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share my love of unusual buildings turned into residential properties. The oast house!!! Primarily based in the South of England, they are stunning structures.

An oast, oast house or hop kiln was a building designed for drying hops as part of the brewing process. Normally two or three storeys high, the hops were spread out to dry by hot air from the kiln. To me, they are similar to barn conversions and I have spent many a happy night or two at Rowena and Matt's place in Hitchin (thanks for the amazing dinners too Row!!).

What do you think? Like them too?

Beautiful accessories

2011-11-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking out for beautiful and unusual accessories for my clients. Accessories make a room.... like icing on a cake. It's fun when I am starting a new project, getting to know a client and searching through their personal objects and one part of my job that I adore is styling those items and maybe adding more.

This Moroccan tray would be perfect placed on a buffet for glasses or vintage crystal decanters:

Fun tray for a hallway table to drop your keys onto:

Love this design:
Feathered trinket box:
Peacock tray:
Cute bowl:
Pretty bowl - would look good filled with lemons and limes next to the Moroccan tray above:
Fornasetti inspired plate:
Wouldn't these look great on a cocktail table - also fill them with olives, nuts, etc:
Antlers = fun:
Great bud vases:
These are so nice for displaying delicate items:

All of these items are available at www.jaysonhome.com

One of my favorite go to stores.

ArtHaus presents GIRL GROUP

2011-10-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

Serena Bocchino, About Face, 24”x24”, Poured enamel on acrylic on manipulated photograph

ArtHaus Gallerists, James Bacchi and Annette Schutz, are pleased to present GIRL GROUP, a rotating exhibition of works in various media by ArtHaus Gallery and Guest Women Artists in the ArtHaus Project Gallery. This group show opens on October 6th with a reception for the artists from 6-8pm.

Featured during the run of GIRL GROUP are works by California and New York artists including; Jhina Alvarado, Serena Bocchino, and “extreme Supreme”, Susaye Greene.

From a series, titled Forgotten Memories, Bay Area artist Jhina Alvarado uses oils and encaustic to obscure untold stories based on long forgotten photographs. The eyes are blocked out so that the viewer can take part of each memory as if it were their own.

Jhina Alvarado, Ready For The Beach, 24”x24”, Oil and encaustic on panel

Acclaimed singer/song writer, Susaye Greene A.K.A. THE LAST SUPREME from the most popular Girl Group in Motown music history, is an interdisciplinary artist. Greene began painting while at the New York City High School of the Performing Arts. She credits her inspiration and fascination for portraiture to works ranging from the Dutch Masters, to modern comic book art and digital fantasy art. “Technology has gifted me with a digital pen, tablet and camera – and with the help of noted photographers and painters I’ve met and worked with throughout my extensive travels, I have found my zone in the digital art world. I see art, music, film, and photography as one. From this collective vision is how I create.”

Susaye Greene “Supreme/Extreme”, Supreme Joy, 23”x19”, Limited edition print

Carolyn Meyer, Midnight Mania, 36”x48”, Oil on canvas

Maxine Solomon, Structure of the Moment, 20”x20”, Oil on canvas

Deborah Brown, Zephyr and Zoe, 18”x24”, Oil on canvas

Chris Schiavo, Baptismal Dress, 7.5”x5.5”, Silver gelatin print

Carol Massa, Conversation II, 20”x16”, Oil on canvas

Astrid, Concert Sans Notes, 20”x20”, Solarized print

Camille Eskell, Good For The Goose, 46”x34”, Oil stick pastel on paper/mixed media

Suzanne Benton, Mutang II, 16.5”x12”x5”, Copper Coated steel

Joining these artists during the run of GIRL GROUP are; Joanne Landis, Carol Massa, Andrea Arroyo, Camille Eskell, Maxine Solomon, Carolyn Meyer, Astrid, Chris Schiavo, Suzanne Benton, Tracey Kessler and Jan Blythe

GIRL GROUP continues in the Project Gallery at ArtHaus through December 23, 2011. Also on exhibit in the Main Gallery, Woven Reflectioins – New Paintings by Gioi Tran.

Voted BEST ART GALLERY IN THE BAY AREA two years running.
ArtHaus
411 Brannan Street

San Francisco

Gallery Hours are: Tuesday-Friday, 11am – 6pm

Saturdays from Noon-5pm

www.ArtHaus-sf.com

For further information phone: (415) 977-0223

Rooms That Rock 4 Chemo

2011-09-27T08:53:00.001-07:00

At the beginning of Summer, I received an email asking if I would be interested in designing a consulting room for a cancer Doctor's office at the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco. I was a little unsure, you know? We often get requests asking for things... a little intrigued, I decided to call the lady who had sent the email... Nancy Ballard.

Nancy is a botanical artist who wanted to give back to her Doctor and had started contacting a group of designers to see if they would like to do a sort of Decorator Showcase space but in an hospital. Thus began Rooms That Rock 4 Chemo - a non-profit organization. Once I had spoken to Nancy it was like the skies had opened and I just couldn't wait to get back from vacation and get going!

I worked closely with my contractor, Paul, on what could and couldn't be done in a weekend. I wanted a Mediterranean style room - lots of warm and inviting colours, new cabinetry, Venetian plaster on the walls and window treatments. As we were meeting in my kitchen - we came across this photo in a cookery book and that became the basis of the design:

Creative Paints on Geary Street donated all of the paints.... here's the first rough plan:

Here are a couple of before shots of the room:

And this is how the room looks now. It's not a great photo as I was shooting into the light on my iPhone!!!

Detail of the venetian plaster:

Before we replaced the cabinets:

After - brand new cabinets with distressed detailing and new hardware:

Details:

And here's the amazing team - I could not have done it without them: Dima and Alex with me!

Madina and Felix - just after they had installed the window treatment:

Everyone worked the entire weekend.... Dima and Alex started on Friday evening and worked right the way through until Sunday afternoon! Madina made the blind all day Saturday and she brought Felix along on Sunday for installation. Eddy, the cabinet maker spent 2 weeks making the cabinets and Paul distressed them. There's a lot that goes into pulling a room together in a weekend and my team nailed it with attention to detail and sheer hard work! Thank you just doesn't seem enough.

The Venetian Room 
Dedicated to all cancer survivors and their families
The warm Mediterranean glow that you feel in this room goes along with the saying
“la Dolce Vita” translated “life is sweet”

Sincere thanks and gratitude to: 
Paul & Dima Asadov and Alex Nikolaev, Zeus Remodeling 
Madina Aryeh, Madina Aryeh Custom Sewing 
Edison Huang, Special Design Cabinets 
Michael Yang, Creative Paints 
Nancy Ballard, Executive Director

RoomsthatRock4Chemo

www.roomsthatrock4chemo.us

If I designed a loft.....

2011-09-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

..... it would so look like this. Funky furniture, large art pieces and gorgeous found objects.

This bright pink sofa would be the star of the room!

Got to have the industrial coffee table

With lovely accent tables like this - you always need a spot for your cocktail!

Add a rustic console!

A couple of large table lamps

Floor lamp

Decorative mirror

Fun accent piece

Another console - maybe near the dining table

Dining table that can do double duty and act as a desk

Fun dining room chairs

If you would like to know where I found these beautiful pieces or would like some help in design a space of your own - then send me an email. Thanks!

Groovy pillows

2011-09-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

It's so nice to find pillows or cushions that are unusual. I thought some of these would look great together on a sofa or chair. Which one's your favourite?

If you're interested in any of the pillows shoot me an email and I'll help you out.

Zoffany wallpaper and fabric

2011-08-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

I'm still in the UK and currently enjoying the Staffordshire countryside... how lovely is this?

There are so many quaint villages dotted around, each one has its own market day too. I love these markets, they are packed full of yummy fresh produce such as Cheshire cheeses, oatcakes and pies. There also seems to be a number of interior design stores and antique shops popping up around the Midlands. I went to Leek the other day and came across such a store that stocked lots of lovely Zoffany wallpapers and fabrics and in the window was this gorgeous London wallpaper:

This wallpaper is just calling out to be used - the colour and tone is just so subtle - it was love at first sight for me ;o)

Great finds from Blighty

2011-08-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

Really enjoying being in England and surrounded by all these great Union Jack goodies.

Fun cushions:

Loving these tea towels:

I noticed that there are lots of these weighted door stops around:

Pretty pink pillows:

I bought my girls this bedding last year and it's really fresh and pretty:

Cool bedding for a rocker:

All of these goods can be found at one of my favourite stores in the Midlands: Dunelm Mill is price sensitive, clean and well laid out and their fabrics are cheap and high quality.

http://www.dunelm-mill.com/

The Osborne Hotel, Llandudno, North Wales

2011-08-02T04:44:00.000-07:00

I'm really enjoying my trip to the UK, especially as my Dad has just been given the all clear from the cancer he was battling, so we're spending valuable family time in North Wales before he then embarks on a knee replacement operation!!!! We're staying at my parent's place in Penmaenmawr. The location is perfect as we're not far from Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhos-on-Sea, Angelsey (where Will and Kate live) and Conwy. I love all of these places and am noticing a lot more interior decor boutique stores opening up which I absolutely love (watch this space as I'm interviewing one of store owners soon).

My Mum knows how much I love stores, hotels and restaurants and she is always keeping an eye out for me. She took me to one such place a couple of days ago and I was blown away. The Osborne Hotel in Llandudno. Imagine this, an old stone double-fronted building built in Victorian times. The current owners have kept the old world feeling - just take a look:

Shabby Chic-style dining room

Communal dining table in marble - very nice!

Back parlour

Light fixture in the parlour

Gorgeous sunny lounge

Lovely dark painted walls

Sitting room view looking into the bar/restaurant

If you ever find yourself in Llandudno - take a look:

http://www.osbornehouse.com/

Wedgwood blue

2011-07-06T16:50:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I hail from Stoke-on-Trent, home (whilst I was growing up there) to Wedgwood and a whole host of pottery companies. Stoke was booming in the 1980s and kids leaving school at 16 could easily get a job in a Pot Bank (that's what they were called)..... some talented artists went on to be lithographers and gold leaf applicators... they were the highest paid jobs!!! Unfortunately nowadays most of the pottery industry has died, leaving ghost-like factory ruins and many, many job cuts!!!

While I was checking out House Beautiful on line, I came across these gorgeous rooms - all in blue and it made me think of Wedgwood and just what a gorgeous soothing colour it is:

www.housebeautiful.com

Ikat patterns

2011-06-27T16:02:00.000-07:00

I was never a fan of the ikat pattern but all of a sudden I've had a change of heart and you can see why - take a look at these modern beauties:

West Elm

DwellStudios

Urban Outfitters

Amazon (fabrics)

What do you think??

Colourful finds from the East Bay!

2011-06-23T15:25:00.001-07:00

I guess I won't be snapped up as the next Million Dollar Decorator just yet... especially as I do like a good bargin and I enjoy mxing expensive and less expensive items together, plus it's fun to do!!!

I hadn't been over to Emeryville in ages - so last Saturday I left my gang with Daddy and headed over the Bay Bridge to Ikea!

Just look at the colourful finds.....

Nice for a sunny office.
Fun for a kids room.

Imagine six of these paired with a rustic table... I really love the lines of this chair.

Sweet for a tween bedroom, paired with chocolate brown walls for more sophiscication!

Buy six or seven of these - dotted around the garden to add a little romance!

For fresh flowers picked from aforementioned garden!

Punch of colour for a hallway!

Casual breakfast nook table.

Arne Jacobsen's egg chair

2011-06-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

I find it hard to believe that Arne Jacobsen designed the egg chair way back in 1958 for the Radisson SAS Hotel in Copenhagen. I lived in Copenhagen for a year in the early 90s and fell in love with the City and it's talented designers! Even way back then, the City was hip and trendy with it's modern designer stores, cosy cafes and bars... London was just catching on... so it was fun to be part of it all. I had a company apartment on Gamel Danske and walked to work through the cobbled streets.... an absolute treat!So it's no surprise that I take with me the love for Danish design as I feel I lived it. Take a look at these designs and you can see how versatile and current it still is. It looks like it was just designed!

Above imagines:
http://www.housebeautiful.com/

Invitation - The Fine Art of Design

2011-05-31T13:46:00.000-07:00

Val Fiscalini at the 2011 Decorator Showcase

IFDA Northern California Chapter &
ArtHaus Gallerists; James Bacchi and Annette Schutz

Present

THE FINE ART OF DESIGN

ArtHaus
411 Brannan Street
San Francisco, CA 94107

Wednesday, June 29th, 5:30pm - 8:00pm
5:30pm - 6:15pm - Networking, Appetizers and Libations
6:15pm - Gallery Tour
6:30pm - 7:30pm - Program and Q&A

IFDA Members - no charge; Non Members $10

RSVP by June 24th to dnicolson@sbcglobal.net

Special thanks to Benjamin Moore www.benjaminmoore.com

Discover the value of partnering with award-winning art gallerists for your next design projects.

During the past 15 years, Gallerists and Icons o Design James Bacchi and Annette Shutz continue to bring the Bay Area's fine art and architectural and design communities closer together. Named "Best Gallery" on the SFBAY List, two years running, ArtHaus is one of San Francisco's foremost resources for contemporary, museum quality works, diverse in subject matter, media and style.

The Wiseman Group

National Bank of Canada

Lawanna Cathleen

KAG Staging

IFDA DBD

Doyle McCullar

Dining by Design

Ashley Jenkins

Applegate Tran
Phot by Chris Stark

Tricia Guild and her team

2011-05-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Imagine working for Tricia Guild? I think it would be an interesting job! Just look at the fabrics they produce. As a young design student in London, I spent most of my Saturdays walking along the King's Road, it was a short walk from my Fulham Road flat and the home to two of my absolute favourite stores: Designer's Guild and Osborne & Little.

The rooms used in their photoshoots are stunning - typical London homes with Georgian detailing and the use of colour. Amazing!

A few years ago, http://www.decorati.com/ approached me and asked me to write about my adventures in London and I wrote above the King's Road and surrounding areas. If you are interested here are the links to Valerie's London:

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2009/06/valerie%E2%80%99s-london-guide-to-posh-shopping-in-kensington-chelsea/

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2009/07/valeries-london-find-the-gems-at-the-camden-lock-market/

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2009/07/valeries-london-a-stroll-down-the-lane-at-portobello-road-market/

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2009/08/valeries-london-bermondsey-market/

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2009/09/valeries-london-mayfair/

http://access.decorati.com/blog/2010/01/valeries-london-fulham/

Mirror, mirror

2011-05-04T11:02:00.001-07:00

I always use lots of mirrors in my designs. Not only do they reflect the light, but they essentially add another window to your room. There are so many to choose from too. I particularly like Venetian mirros - I used this one a couple of years ago in a hallway and it looked amazing:

More glamerous Venetian mirrors:

Three mirrors together look wonderful and add a sculptural element:

This time the mirrors are placed down the wall - look how dramatic they look with the dark paint colour:

Round mirrors look so good above a console or a fireplace:

I placed this floor mirror in my client's living room. It made the light bounce around the room. I also placed a silver floor lamp to the left and in the evening, when the lights were dimmed, it looked very romantic:

Classic blue and white

2011-05-02T12:47:00.000-07:00

A classic blue and white room never goes out of style. As these images show, it doesn't have to be nautical either!

I think these ginger jars are stunning:

Love the navy blue walls here:

What a beautiful window seat - look at the view:

Timeless living room:

Romantic bedroom:

Bold stripes:

All images from www.housebeautiful.com

Cotswolds escape

2011-04-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I have been working super hard lately, with no breaks, so as I sat at my desk this morning I started day-dreaming about our first weekend away together to Upper Slaughter in the Cotswolds, way back in the late 90s!

The village of Upper Slaughter is located in the county of Gloucestershire, one mile away from Lower Slaughter and resides on a gentle grassy slope above the stream that connects the two villages. The building that dominates Upper Slaughter is the beautiful gabled Manor House which is one of the finest buildings in the area. The oldest part of the house dates from the 15th century but the front is Elizabethan. The Manor is now a hotel and that's where we stayed!

Our first glimpse of the Lords of the Manor hotel:

Upper Slaughter was identified by author Arthur Mee as one of the 32 "Thankful Villages", although more recent work suggests a total of 51. Meaning the small number of villages in England and Wales which lost no men in World War I. In Enchanted Land (1936), the introductory volume to "The King’s England" series of guides, he wrote "that a Thankful Village was one which had lost no men in the Great War because all those who left to serve came home again."

We had an amazing dinner at the Michelin star restaurant:

Followed by coffee and port in the lounge:

Grab a pair of complimentary wellies before going for a romantic walk to the stream - which we did in the moonlight after dinner:

And so to bed:

http://www.lordsofthemanor.com/

Happy Easter (and an English treat)

2011-04-22T15:53:00.001-07:00

I was thinking about celebrating Easter in the UK when I was little.... I always had a new frock and if Mum had the time, I'd get a brand spanking new knitted cardigan to match! Some shiny sandals and lily white socks! The mantlepiece would be covered in chocolate easter eggs from Aunts and Uncles, Gran and Grandad and parents! It was a fab time.

So I was looking at photos to post and came across these... which also reminds me of a very old English tradition.... soft boiled eggs and toast soldiers. That's what we called them! I'm sure it was a ploy by some parent trying to get their kid to eat "that's right, dip your toast solider into your egg honey"..... In the UK we have these for breakfast all the time and sometimes if you're a little sick you might get some for tea as they are nice and light.

So delicious! I cook my eggs for 4 minutes egg-actly (silly joke - sorry!) and while they are boiling you put the bread in the toaster, then butter the toast and cut into thin stripes (soldiers).

My kids still call them "dip dips".....

Enjoy with lots of English breakfast tea!

Happy Easter!

Renovated Reputations, Kenney Mencher

2011-04-13T10:47:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending Kenney's opening last Friday and in the words of the ArtHaus' gallerist, James Bacchi - we should be making the first Facebook connection movie. It was through James that I first saw Kenney's amazing works of art and, like most of us nowadays, I "friended" him on Facebook - I actually couldn't believe that he accepted!!! So... as I walked into the gallery, I spotted Kenney who immediately gave me a hug and said how nice it was to meet in person. HOW cool is that? Here we are after just meeting:

Renovated Reputations is the result of a flash fiction internet blogging project created by Kenney, based on his new series of paintings and assemblages, inspired by vintage and antique vernacular photography. Each painting is the solicitation for writers to submit short fiction of one thousand words or less. The blog has attracted more than 250 hits per day. http://kenney-mencher.blogspot.com/

Kenney awards the author of the winning entry with an original work used as the basis for the story. Each painting and story is a unique standalone entity – combining exhibition, a newspaper and a limited-edition catalogue. The exhibition will feature up to 40 paintings. As a painter, Kenney's objective continues to present figurative compositions divorced from their context, while forcing the viewer to create their own interpretation of the narrative. “As you look at Mencher’s art you are reminded of your own lost moments – the people you should have comforted, but didn’t; the lover you trusted who stopped returning your calls; the companion at work who quietly knifed you in committee and then cheerfully chatted you up at coffee break. Humble stuff, average people making average choices…” Art critic, William Wisner.

Originally from New York City, Kenney Mencher earned a BA and MA in Art History from City University of New York and University of California, Davis. He went on to obtain a MFA in painting from the University of Cincinnati, Ohio. Mencher’s work has been exhibited nationwide. He is the author of Liaisons: Readings In Art, Literature and Philosophy, and he has taught at several institutions including University of Chicago and Texas A&M University.

Renovated Reputations continues at ArtHaus through June 25, 2011. The gallery is located at 411 Brannan Street in San Francisco. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, 11am-6pm and Saturday, noon-5pm. For further information, phone (415)977-0223 or Visit ArtHaus at http://www.arthaus-sf.com/

Grey bedroom design

2011-04-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of designing a grey bedroom. I want it to feel monochromatic, so am using the same colours, furnishings and accessories in varying tones. Along one wall will be white built-in storage and I know already that I want to use a very dark grey wall colour as the cabinetry will have LED lighting casting a subtle shadow. I was inspired by these rooms and their dark sexy walls and similar to my scheme, they all have a pop of colour in there too:

Wedding anniversary!

2011-03-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

My husband and I got married 14 years ago today! I was finishing my interior design exams in London and hubby was working in San Francisco! So I did a fair bit of commuting that year! We arranged our wedding via emails and phone calls. I saw pictures of the Swedenborgian Church and fell in love with its architecture and interior space and was inspired that Bernard Maybeck designed and built it!!

Although I am not a huge lover of Arts and Crafts for residential interiors, I do appreciate the beautiful interior of the Swedenborgian Church and it's grounds. We had the fire blazing and the candles lit. It was very intimate and romantic.

Maybeck also built The Palace of Fine Arts for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. It was one of ten palaces at the heart of the exhibition, which also included the exhibit palaces of Education, Liberal Arts, Manufactures, Varied Industries, Agriculture, Food Products, Transportation, Mines and Metallurgy and the Palace of Machinery. Maybeck took his inspiration from Roman and Greek architecture in designing what was essentially a fictional ruin from another time.

After the ceremony we headed to the Ritz Hotel. Our guests (five in total) sat down for some pink champagne while we quickly checked into our room. The receptionist told me that there was a problem with the booking and they had to move us to another room but it had a prerequisite. Looking rather perplexed, she told me I had to be able to play the piano!!! Then she started laughing - they had put us in the Presidential Suite. We gathered our guests and moved the champagne reception to Suite 910! It was amazing and funny to see my friend, Annette, laying on the piano, my Mum sprinkling petals into our bed and my Dad just taking it all in. We later went downstairs for a beautiful dinner.

Outside of The Ritz Carlton Hotel, San Francisco

The Ritz Carlton Hotel's dining room

The Presidential Suite #910, The Ritz Carlton Hotel, San Francisco

Black is back!

2011-03-21T14:25:00.001-07:00

I dream of the day when I suggest to a client that we paint a room black and they agree to it! I've suggested it a couple of times now and no one has even entertained the idea!

Look at these beautifully painted rooms - aren't they gorgeous? See - there's no need to be scared at all!

All photos courtesy of http://www.lonnymag.com/

Bouquets to Art 2011, de Young, San Francisco

2011-03-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

I was so pleased when Laura asked if I'd like to go to the Bouquets to Art exhibition at the de Young Museum. The 27th Annual Bouquets to Art features 150 floral arrangements by prominent Bay Area designers and garden clubs that interpret and complement the museum’s permanent collection. It's the largest fundraiser held to benefit the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, and one of the country’s premier floral events. Organized and produced by the volunteer members of the Fine Arts Museums Auxiliary, Bouquets to Art raises funds to support acquisitions, special exhibitions and education programs.

These are some of my favourites, but first here I am (a little blurry) as Super Woman - notice my new Coach handbag on the floor (birthday present from hubby):

Public art in San Francisco

2011-03-11T13:34:00.001-08:00

I was just talking to my gorgeous friend, Annette, this morning and she mentioned how she had gone to dinner last night at Jamie Oliver's new restaurant in London which actually overlooks St. Paul's Cathedral. How gorgeous does that sound? Anyway, it got us both thinking that we often neglect the Cities that we live in and fail to take advantage of all that's around us.

San Francisco has a wealth of public art that's totally free for us to enjoy. No entrance fees.... Here are some of my favourites.

Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen’s "Cupid's Span" at Rincon Park

Ecstasy by Dan Das Mann and Karen Cusolito

Grace Cathedral has two labyrinths.
The outdoor labyrinth is made of terrazzo stone and is located
to the right of the cathedral doors. The indoor labyrinth is open
during cathedral hours. The labyrinth has only one path so there
are no tricks to it and no dead ends!

Doug Hollis' "Rain Column" at the Rincon Center

Masayuki Nagare's "Transcendence," at the
Bank of America Building also fondly known as the
"Banker's Heart." Picture courtesy of The Chronicle.

"Eclipse" at the Hyatt Regency.
Chronicle photo by Mark Costantini.

On 65th Street in Emeryville, Brian Goggin's
"Herd Instinct" includes steel sculptures of
Queen Anne furniture run amok.
Chronicle photo by Mark Costantini.

Crouching Spider by Louise Bourgeois.
Pier 14 San Francisco.

Finally, something to look forward to:
Tim Hawkinson's monumental sculpture to be installed
at the new Transbay Transit Center. The artist’s proposal is for
a 41-foot figurative sculpture made from the demolished remains
of the old Transbay Terminal and has been approved by the
Transbay Joint Powers Authority!

Please leave a comment and let me know some of your favourites and maybe we can find some hidden treasures for us all to share.

Bookcases

2011-03-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

Anyone who has been to my house with tell you that I'm a huge book lover. Of course, my office is full of design inspired book. However, my living space is filled with antique hard-backed books which I have collected over the years and lots of coffee table art books!

I'm currently working on a couple of projects where we're installing built-ins - so I thought I'd share some inspirational photos which I use, along with sketches and discussions to help my clients visualize just what goes on in my head!!!

www.elledecor.com

www.lonnymag.com

Fred from HR

2011-03-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

As you know. I love posting about ArtHaus. Gallery owners, James and Annette represent the most talented artists I've ever seen. I used to think art galleries were a little intimidating and that I couldn't possibly enter because I would not be able to afford anything. This is not the case with ArtHaus, there's always a warm welcome, an educated chat about the artist and a wonderful tour. I feel like a kid in a candy store.

NOW.... what you don't know, and you're really missing out on, is their HR Director, Fred. He's a real charmer and will actually greet you as you enter the gallery! Fred was adopted from the SPCA 7 years ago, and is an avid collector of contemporary art.

7x7 Magazine are having a contest and Fred is in the running....

Please cast your Vote for #13, FRED:

http://www.7x7.com/2011-7x7-dog-poll-top-50-finalists

Fred sitting in front Deborah Brown's Hannah Double Portrait - Shelter Dog Series
48"x48", oil on canvas

Fred with artist, Franc D'Ambrosio

Fred with ArtHaus' owner, James Bacchi
Painting in the background is Karyn Scarpulla's Venus of Urbino
24"x30" oil and acrylic on canvas

Fred attending a premiere

Upholstered headboards

2011-03-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

I really think a bedroom looks complete when it has an upholstered headboard. I especially like to use fun and bold colours, although you do have to be careful not to choose a fabric that's going to date any time soon - as it could be a costly mistake to make.

I love the bold green stripes in this bed:

Here a neautral colour is used but the height is wonderful:

I probably wouldn't use this colour but I like the cut out design - adds a little interest:

Beige and chunky:

Traditional headboards:

A little girlie and glam:

Beautiful fabric:

Nice duck egg blue:

A little too ornate maybe:

Elegant and chic one of my favourites - imagine crisp white sheets and a Hermes cashmere throw:I love the clean lines here and the fabric:
Please contact me if you would like to know where to purchase any of these beds or need help design the bedroom of your dreams!

Monochromatic design scheme

2011-02-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

Give me a colour to work with or a piece of fabric and away I go. It's very exciting to be working on a monochromatic design scheme pulling together lots of earth and sky tones and incorporating natural materials.

Love the motif on this cushion::

Intricate Moroccan chest of drawers:

A French Louis XVI sofa covered in linen:

Side table:

Cocktail table with marble top and metal legs:Tall side chair paired with an industrial table for dining:

I love how all of the colours work together. It's a very soft palette and easy on the eye. This is a work in progress but I will be adding a splash of colour with artwork, some subdued lamps dotted around the room and soft woollen rugs underfoot.

Joe, my carpenter

2011-02-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

This is Joe, my carpenter. We've known one another for over 10 years and I am amazed by him. I don't think my clients realize the amount of love, thought and dedication that goes into his work. I met him this morning to go over a couple of jobs he's working on for me. The first, shown in the picture, are some built-in book cases he's doing. He's spent the last week researching, doing detailed drawings, visiting stores and sizing up components and books that will fit on these shelves. He's very much like me when a project starts - he lives and breathes it and can't stop thinking about it.

Here he is, on the right, with another Joe (on the left) who is, in fact, a very successful private chef with his own line of rubs... check out his website at the bottom of this post.

Love you Joe.... thanks for all of your hard work.

He's the other Joe's website too..... and what a lovely, kind man! Check it out:http://www.chefbambam.com/

Sourcing around San Francisco

2011-02-11T13:56:00.000-08:00

What a busy few weeks..... AND a couple of new clients.... so I thought I would share a few goodies I found here in San Francisco. These pieces are not all for the same space.... so look at each one individually ;o)

Don't you just love this "peace" chair?

Gorgeous antique red chest with gold detailing:

Glass lamp:

Stripped chest of drawers:

Fun bedside table:

Accessories:

Updated Louis chair:

Beautiful modern chandelier:

Finally - some lovely oil on canvas pieces:

Suzanne Benton's exhibition at ArtHaus

2011-02-07T10:16:00.000-08:00

Installation – World Piece
Photo: Alan Bamberger

I went to see my lovely friend, James Baachi, last week and saw his latest exhibition by Suzanne Benton entitled World Piece.

Suzanne has shared her multi-faceted art for over 30 years in 29 countries. As a trans-culturalist and feminist pioneer based in the U.S., her venues stretch far beyond New York’s art world to villages in remote parts of Africa, India, and Nepal, and to philosophy and educational portals from Calcutta to Cambridge.

Inspired by her travels throughout the world, Suzanne continues her monoprint-making (one of a kind prints) with Chine colle (glued paper collage) which has evolved since 1983. She works with a 30”x50” Charles Brand press. The colle papers are hand made, pre-inked and hand painted. The collographic printing plates are inked individually for each print, and allow for the embossing of a complex texture onto the prints.

Images and colle papers are coated and placed on the plate. These papers then adhere to the sheet of etching paper as the plate and paper are run through the etching press. Suzanne's work has been featured in more than 150 solo exhibitions. Her work is represented in museums, galleries, universities and public and private collections worldwide. She’s an active print maker, mask maker and performance artist, as well as a guest lecturer. Author of The Art Of Welded Sculpture, Suzanne and her work have been the subject of more than 300 media features and reviews.

Mystic Warrior – Mahakala (Tibet)
Welded steel and mixed-media
Courtesy of ArtHaus

Mutang II (Korea)
Copper coated steel
Courtesy of ArtHaus

Also on exhibit, ArtHaus IN SQUARE, a group exhibition featuring multi-media works in a square format by Gallery and Gust Artists, including; Carolyn Meyer, Marc Lambrechts, Carol Massa, Franc D’Ambrosio, Chris Schiavo and Samuel Fleming Lewis.

ArtHaus is located at 411 Brannan Street in San Francisco. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, 11am-6pm, and Saturday, Noon – 5pm. For further information, please phone (415) –977-0223 or visit ArtHaus on the web at http://www.arthaus-sf.com/

Introducing a fabulous photographer

2011-01-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we ventured out of the City!!! Yup, we headed North to Marin, to visit Miguel and Heather and their gorgeous sons. It was so lovely driving over the Golden Gate Bridge at night too. Miguel is a serious foodie from Montgat (Spain) and he made the most delicious fideua with a very garlicky aioli. It was gorgeous!

I was in for another treat and had the pleasure of meeting Maegan (Heather's sister) who was visiting from San Diego. I found out that she was a photographer. I asked to see her work and was amazed!

Maegan was about 9 when she took her first photo; "I started by posing my dog Kelsey in front of anything pretty and making her sit there forever while I would take picture after picture. Then I started taking pictures of anything that caught my eye, driving my parents nuts with all the film they would have to develop. To this day I take pictures of anything that catches my attention for more than a few seconds, because I know that it's something worth remembering".

I asked Maegan what interests her in photography; "It's being able to catch a moment in time that you will never get back. To capture the beauty of something so you can share with others and show people the world, the way you see it".

Mothers do know best, as Maegan's Mom convinced her to submit her artwork to The San Diego's Union Tribune's local photography competition and she was selected. This is the photography that was featured:

If you are interested in purchasing any of the above
photographs then please contact me: vwills@sbcglobal.net

To see lots more of Maegan's work then check out her website: http://lavierefait.deviantart.com/

Thanks Maegan!

Colour inspiration

2011-01-12T13:40:00.001-08:00

I love living in San Francisco..... it's a very colourful place. I'm always on the lookout for inspiration, which can be found all over this beautiful City.

One of my favourite things to do is scouring markets - farmer's markets, flower markets and antique and vintage marekts. Here I have taken some of my photos from Alemany Farmer's Market and the San Francisco Flower Market and paired with design pieces.

Pinks:

Purples:

Reds:

Whites:

Yellows:

Oranges:

Greens:

Creams:

Blues:

If you are interested in any of the above pieces, then please send an email to me. Alernatively if you anterested in my design services please visit my website: http://www.valeriewillsinteriors.com/

Greek keys

2010-12-29T14:56:00.000-08:00

My love for keys started many years ago when my friend, Alicia and I, went to the Greek Island of Kos. I seem to remember our hotel was on a terribly noisy street - full of bars and discos.... we were working long hours in London and had decided to have a quiet, peaceful holiday - so much for that!

So, we pooled our money together and hired a car to "get out of dodge". Alicia was the designated driver, as she is such a well travelled lady and has driven all over the world (unlike moi)! While most of the party-going people from our hotel and surrounding neighbourhood were snoozing off their hangovers, we drove up hill and down dale and discovered all kinds of interesting villages and places. It was on one of these visits that we found a tiny antique shop where I bought my first keys. The dealer had a basket full of them but as my funds were limited I could only afford two! Here they are:

I've noticed that there are a lot of stores selling keys nowadays.

These white coated keys are cute:

I think this old hotel key holder would look fabulous as a piece of art:

I like the industrial look too:

Instant art or table decoration. I like to place old keys on top of books too!

It's also said that keys are lucky: Three keys worn together are said to unlock the doors of 1) wealth, 2) health, 3) love. The ancient Greeks used one key as a symbol for knowledge and life. A gold and silver key crossed is a papal emblem of authority and translates to mean the "keys to the kingdom of heaven."

I was also lucky this Christmas as one of my gifts from my Mum was a key necklace - don't you love the piece of jade (one of my daughter's names too!) and the little heart attached?

Wishing everyone a lucky New Year!

Beautiful lighting

2010-12-14T09:56:00.001-08:00

Last month I was fortunate to be featured in the San Francisco Chronicle in their Stylemaker Spotlight section (I've re-posted the link below), one of my tips or rather dislikes is strong overhead lighting. Bright lights make everything look harsh - our complexion, our furniture, rugs, etc. Ambient lighting is far more soothing. In my designs I like to use chandeliers with dimmers, table lamps everywhere, floor lamps and uplights to highlight plants. It's an easy fix and looks so much better.

Here are a few of my favourites:

http://articles.sfgate.com/2010-11-07/home-and-garden/24818529_1_sheets-clients-english-tradition

If you are interested in any of the above pieces, then please contact me.

Kitchen remodel update

2010-11-16T12:07:00.001-08:00

Well..... not a whole lot has happened with the kitchen! The delay is mostly due to City permits! So in the interim, I thought you'd like to see how the kitchen used to look:

And just look how it looks now:

I'm not a huge fan of demolition, but know it has to be done! Everything is dusty and messy.... so to make everything better it's always nice to look at what's to come. For instance, beautiful, clean white subway tiles:

We are also extending the kitchen so there's going to be room for a casual dining area. As the kitchen will be white cabinets with black countertops, I'm mixing it up with an industrial table - rough wood and wrought iron legs:

Then thinking of softening the table with a sofa - probably covered in a neutral fabric though:

Adding a few Louis inspired chairs:

And a fabulous industrial light fixture:

An evening with Franc D'Ambrosio at ArtHaus

2010-11-08T11:02:00.000-08:00

James Bacchi, ArtHaus, yours truly and Franc D'Ambrosio
Photo by Robert Sokol

I had the pleasure of meeting Franc D'Ambrosio at the end of October at the opening of his exhibition at ArtHaus, here in San Francisco. It was a rainy evening but the gallery was packed for the invitation-only event. Franc introduced himself to me and we immediately started chatting about his paintings. I've been told that I become animated when I talk about design, well that's just what happens when you talk to Franc about his work. He explained in detailed the layering process and water jetting on some of his pieces. It was fascinating.

Franc D’Ambrosio with his Prayer Group I,60”x36”,
acrylic on canvas, private collection
Photo by: Joshua Weishaar

Mid Century Afternoon, 60”x48”,
acrylic on canvas

Ovation, 22”x28”,
acrylic on canvas

A little background on Franc..... The world was introduced to D’Ambrosio when Francis Ford Coppola cast him as Anthony Corleone, the opera singing son of Al Pacino in Coppola’s seven time Academy Award nominated film “Godfather III.” Franc starred in the film and also sang the Academy Award winning theme song, “Brucia la Terra”, both in the film and on the original film soundtrack.

And so began this varied artistic career. Years later, D’Ambrosio became known as “The Iron Man of The Mask”, and was awarded the distinction as the “World’s Longest Running Phantom”. His current one-man show, “I’ll Be Seeing YOUZ – A Bronx Boys Musical Perspective on World War II”, opened at The Raaz Room in San Francisco and is now touring.

On the subject of Franc D’Ambrosio – THE PAINTER, the self-taught artist recalls…“I began painting exactly the same way I began singing.One day I didn’t do it, and the next day I did. The act of painting rose from a very spiritual time for me, and I cherish this gift. I paint just as I strive to live; fearlessly. As I approach the blank canvas, I have a pallet in mind and the end result. Throughout the painting process, I abandon resistance and embrace expression and the relationship between myself and the canvas. As each work develops, I experience an intimacy which I define as the growing, revealing and discovering of one’s self in the presence of another. My relationship with the canvas mirrors my feeling and passion for prayer and God.”

ArtHaus introduced D’Ambrosio’s paintings in SUMMER TIME, a recent group exhibition of works by Gallery and Guest Artists. According to Gallerists James Bacchi and Annette Schutz, the response to THE PAINTERS’ work has been overwhelming. “D’Ambrosio paints much in the same way that he sings; directly from his soul, allowing his audience and the viewer a shared and extremely intimate experience with his work.”

“The Diva aka Lisa Vroman”, by Franc D’Ambrosio went to auction on September 24th at the 14th Annual ArtforAIDS benefiting the UCSF Aids Health project, and his work will be featured in a solo exhibition at Summit One Gallery, North Carolina in 2011.

Franc about to sing to us.... it was amazing!
Photo by Robert Sokol

Franc D’Ambrosio – THE PAINTER – continues at ArtHaus through December 23, 2010. ArtHaus is located at 411 Brannan Street, between 3rd and Ritch Street, San Francisco.
Gallery hours: Tuesday – Friday, 11am-6pm and Saturday, noon-5pm.
http://www.arthaus-sf.com/

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news%2Fentertainment&id=7755363

A visit to SF Design Center

2010-10-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

I've just started working with the nicest couple ever, which makes my job a breeze. We are currently working on their living room and dining room, which is being painted and wallpapered as I type! Their two daughters, Samantha and Victoria, are also enjoying the whole design process and when they saw my presentation they said that they can't wait for me to start on their bedroom. How cute is that? So with that in mind, I thought I would take my two new clients to the Design Center to get their input. I also brought along my kids too!

Outside the Design Center

Back row, L to R: Samantha, Jade and Daniel
Front row, L to R: Emily and Victoria

First of all we headed to Osborne & Little, as it's one of my all time favourites and reminds me of my days in London when I would head to their store on the Kings Road most weekends.

As you can see, the kids got straight to it and knew exactly which fabrics they liked.... they even wrote the codes on their sheets in order to get samples.

Daniel decided his room needs a make-over and picked this fabulous wallpaper. Sorry hun, but the client comes first!

Victoria has very expensive taste.... love her style!

Samantha sitting pretty.

Checking out the Benjamin Moore showroom samples.

We had a pit stop and sampled Perry's mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Our final visit was to Restoration Hardware's new showroom, the former Ed Hardy building is stunning.... they loved the fountains:

The sleigh seat was a huge hit with the ladies.

Victoria and Emily wanted this bed and looked so tiny next to it.

Jade sitting on Samantha's knee.... sophisticated ladies, they loved this chair.

In the grand entrance at Restoration Hardware

Heading home with lots of samples!

Staging properties for resale

2010-10-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

As part of my design services, I also help property owners stage their homes for resale. I'm not the kind of stager who has a warehouse full of furniture, I actually use existing pieces and purchase smaller items to enhance the space. It turns out to be a lot cheaper than a full blown staging job and the owner walks away with some nice items such as lamps, bedding, etc., which I can always incorporate into their new home.

One of the first things I did for this home was to paint a large chest of drawers red. Here are the before and after shots. The paint colour is called "red velvet". Isn't it lovely? I wanted to make this piece of furniture work in the room as the walls were a dark brown and the curtains had a slight red stripe. I bought new lamps and bedding too.

Before

After

After

After

Take a look at the McGuire website and if you live in San Francisco and are interested then contact Ilonka Edwards:

http://www.29cumberland.com/

Wallpaper

2010-10-08T09:45:00.001-07:00

It's great to work with clients who are willing to step out of their comfort zone and it's even better seeing their faces when that idea comes to fruition. For some reason a lot of people are scared of wallpaper! I try to convince clients to go for maybe just one accent wall with wallpaper.... it really can transform a room.

As you know, I love all things British, especially Farrow & Ball. They have an amazing array of paints and wallpapers. They have been making paint in Dorset, one batch at a time, since 1946 and remains one of only a few companies making a full range of traditional and modern paint finishes of the highest quality. Who could resist painting a wall with such colours called "string", "putty" and "pavilion gray". Their wallpapers are quite unique as they are produced using environmentally friendly water based paints and traditional manufacturing methods. Their patterned wallpapers are block printed and their stripes and stries are trough printed. All wallpapers are made to order.

Here's a few examples:

Their "vermicelli" series is one of my all time favourites:

We're about to install the green version in a client's dining room this month:

My first kitchen project starts today!

2010-09-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

I've spent the last 6 months looking at kitchen cabinets, appliances, wall tiles, floor tiles, under floor heating, counter tops, etc. Not to mention collecting permits!

Although we are a long way off... demolition starts today! We also need to pour a new concrete foundation and rebuild the back section of the laundry room -- but the exciting part is that we are adding a deck on top which will have french windows leading off an upper floor bedroom!!

It's been fun..... here's a few inspirational pictures and the general direction we're going towards.

Photos courtesy of http://www.housebeautiful.com/

Big Daddy's Antiques opens in San Francisco!

2010-09-24T14:22:00.001-07:00

The moment I set my eyes on the goodies being sold by Big Daddy's Antiques, at the Alameda Antiques Market, it was love at first sight. They have a fantstic eye for mixing old and new - e.g., burlap covered chairs with industrial tables, oversized clocks and antlers, old buckets and ladders. But guess what? You don't have to wait until the first Sunday of the month to see this LA based firm!! They have just opened a warehouse here in San Francisco! I am beyond excited... here's a small glimpse of some of my favourite pieces:

Big Daddy's North
1550 17th Street
San Francisco, CA 94107

Don't forget to contact me if you'd like a tour of my favourite stores here in the City!

Night and day at Jema al Fnaa

2010-09-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

With my guide book in hand, I was told to head for the heart of Marrakech and find Jema al Fnaa which is the main square and it's HUGE! By day it's a dried fruit and spices market, empty spaces are filled with locals trying to tell stories (give them more money and they will continue their story), snake charmers and the odd monkey doing tricks.

We took a photo of this guy and his monkey and before we knew it, he was hounding us for money!!

If you look closely, there's a tiny chipmunk rounding up the snakes! The snake charmers kept trying to wrap snakes around our necks!!!

As the sun was setting, the daily stall holders headed home.....

... and the night market started to take shape:

In what seemed like seconds - the food stalls were up and running. There was so much smoke from the BBQs and noise from the stall holders shouting that their stall was the best:

We settled at a table and felt like Anthony Bourdain..... here are the small plates we ordered AND we didn't get sick... although the next day we went to lunch at a fancy restaurant and that evening I got terribly sick - which lasted for well over 3 weeks!!!!

Moroccan doors

2010-09-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

More on our little jaunt to Marrakech. We were mesmerized by the City's tiny passageways which seemed to shrink as we got closer to Jema al Fnaa (the main square, where we actually ate one evening - just like Anthony Bourdain!).

It was fun walking through the souks, especially as we were trying to haggle with store owners, get away from aggressive sellers, not get run over by speeding mopeds or the odd donkey or have the girls' heads rubbed by the locals!!!! It was crazy.... but through all of this noise and hustle and bustle you occasionally find a door and start to wonder what lies beyond!

Ksar Anika, Marrakech, Morocco

2010-09-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

While we were in Marrakech, we stayed at the Ksar Anika, a gorgeous riad which was tucked away in a little side street, surrounded by cotton manufacturers. When our driver dropped us at a large black door, we had no idea what lay beyond. It was far better than we imagined - Venetian plastered walls in varying colours, huge Moroccan lanterns and intricately carved tables next to comfortable chairs. There was a beautiful courtyard where a small pool shocked the eye with its blue tiles. We also ate breakfast here, which consisted of fresh fruit, yogurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, baked breads drizzled with honey and a steaming hot pot of strong black coffee.

For further information go to http://www.ksaranika.com/

Marrakech, Morocco

2010-09-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

Nothing prepared us for the sights, sounds and smells of Marrakech! I really like the word cacophony and that kind of sums up the City. It's loud, bustling, busy and packed full. The journey from the airport to our hotel had our jaws dropping. The drivers were so bad, weaving in and out, motorbikes and mopeds (no one wearing helmets either!) overtaking and under cutting cars, horses and donkeys sharing the roads too.

As we entered the City or Palace walls we seemed to be entering a dusty pinkish/orange labyrinth. As we got closer to the centre the passageways got smaller and smaller. We were glad to finally reach our hotel, a very trendy riad, not far from the main square and souks (I will post photos of our hotel in a couple of days). In the meantime, enjoy a few photos:

All photographs are the property of Valerie Wills
Please ask for permission if you wish to use them.

Birthday wishes

2010-08-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

It's my husband and my son's birthday today - isn't that amazing? After giving my husband the "best birthday present ever" 11 years ago, it's kind of hard to top!

This is where my friend, James Bacchi, came to the rescue. I had the pleasure of meeting James last year at the Icons of Design, Millenium Towers where his gallery, ArtHaus, provided stunning pieces for the entryway. We hit it off straight away and I feel so proud that we now have the start of a mini collection of our own.

When I was a young girl working in Mayfair, I was so intimidated by the art galleries of Bond Street and Jermyn Street, I'd peer through their windows instead. This is not the case with ArtHaus. The space is so warm and inviting. I had called James and said I wanted to purchase a small piece, I arrived the next day at the gallery and James, knowing my taste already, had pulled a number of paintings for me to view. I was made to feel like royalty and my budget wasn't laughed at!!

Just take a look at the piece I chose:

El Nino by Carolyn Meyer, 1995

Here are a few of the beautiful pieces currently on show. I have my eye on this fabulous painting by Kenney Mencher - I'm sure if the majority of us look through our parents or grandparents photo albums then we would find something similar:

Adam Kurtzman's sexy Kewpie:

Another of my favourite artists: Marc Lambrechts:

More stunning paintings by Carolyn Meyer:

Pamela Dernham's "Pink Ladies":

Currently on exhibition at ArtHaus: The Backyard by Chris Schiavo:

James and I

Fred, from the HR Dept., dealing with two young customers!

For further information please contact:
James Bacchi

ArtHaus
411 Brannan Street

San Francisco, CA 94107

Tel. 415-977-0223

Living Green, San Francisco

2010-07-20T12:55:00.001-07:00

One of my favourite places to find unusual antique, vintage and new pieces, and not just outdoor goodies either, is Living Green in San Francisco, right behind the Design Center on 15th Street. Just take a look at a few of the stunning items I came across last week:

http://www.livinggreen.com/

Stoke-on-Trent, England

2010-07-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

We're a nice bunch really!!!

As many of you know, I grew up in Stoke-on-Trent - slap bang in the middle of England. Also called "The Potteries", which since the 17th century has been known for its industrial-scale pottery manufacturing, with such world renowned names as Royal Doulton, Dudson, Spode, Wedgwood and Minton. The once abundant supplies of coal and the construction of the Trent and Mersey canal enabled the import of china clay from Cornwall together with other materials and facilitated the production of creamware and bone china.

Spode teacup

Trent & Mersey canal

Great to see that Middleport Pottery Banks are being restored finally!

Stoke-on-Trent has six main towns: Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Longton and Fenton, all have the feel of smoky industrial-ness although local councils are now cleaning up the disused pot-banks and coal mines and replacing them with with retail parks!! Interestingly, through the works of Arnold Bennett (also from Stoke) 'Six Towns' was sometimes known as the 'Five Towns'. In his novels Bennett wrote about local events in the 19th century and consistently changed all proper names - e.g., Hanley became Hanbridge, Burslem became Bursley. It is thought that Bennett chose to write about five towns, rather than six because he refused to acknowledge Fenton as a proper town. The six towns weren't federated until 1910 but Fenton was still relatively new by that time, it was also the smallest in terms of population and area. As well as this Bennett changed the name of the towns' newspaper from the Sentinel to the Signal, an identity that was subsequently adopted by the city's commercial radio station.

Approach to Stoke railway station, 1975
(I remember this so well as you always went
by train to Durham to see my Grand-parents)

Longport kiln

Burslem factory gates

If you are ever passing through Stoke - try one of our local delicacies: the much loved Potteries Oatcakes (traditionally filled with bacon and cheese and grilled). Oatcakes can be bought any day of the week now but when I was little we had to wait until Saturday morning to buy them from local corner stores. The recipe has never been revealed either!

Oatcakes

When I go back to visit it always makes me smile when I see friends and they call me "duck" or "shug". Duck is used as a greeting to either men or women and is believed to be derived from the Saxon word ‘ducas’ used to indicate respect. Shug or sugar is usually used when closing a sentence as in "Ta Shug" (thank you sugar).

A Victorian folly on the outskirts of town (Mow Cop)

Farmer's land

The Backyard Exhibition, San Francisco

2010-06-23T14:31:00.000-07:00

ArtHaus Gallerists, and my lovely friends, James Bacchi and Annette Schutz, are pleased to present an exhibition of select photographs from the acclaimed series, The Backyard, by New York Artist Chris Schiavo. This installation, in association with award winning garden and landscape designer Deanna Glory, opens on Thursday evening, July 1, 2010 at ArtHaus, with a reception from 6-8pm.

For the past 25 years, The Backyard has, and continues, to capture the attention of the art world. This series of colour photographs was created over a span of 12 years, in various locations in Queens, New York. The Backyard takes a humorous look at the compact worlds and eccentricities created by the human presence within these tiny plots of nature.

Schiavo handles photography with the sensibility of a painter. These photographed environments are manipulated and enhanced on site with painted light and shadows, bright colours, exaggerated flora and fauna, carefully positioned props and live presences. These mysterious tableaus of fractured narratives transform common backyards into personalized and emotionally charged hyper-realities built of childhood memories and adult longings. At once eerie and familiar, these photographs offer a timeless glimpse of an American scene.

The Backyard premiered at Yale University in an exhibition curated by Michael Spano, and later traveled to On the Wall Gallery in New York. Schiavo is represented in San Francisco by ArtHaus. Select works from The Backyard are in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of art In New York City.

Chris Schiavo is a multi-media artist born and based in New York City. She works in photography, film, installation art, drawing and sound pieces, often incorporating several media simultaneously to create experimental films, theater and performance art. Schiavo is a recipient of awards including; New York Foundation of the Arts, New York State Council of the Arts and BCAT.

To complete The Backyard, Deanna Glory creates an installation which draws from her passion for art and design. She is the recipient of two Gold Medals at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show, while her firm was voted #1 in San Francisco by the Chronicle’s SF GATE BEST OF THE BAY. The designer and her work have appeared in the New York Times, Sunset Magazine and Fine Gardening Magazine.

The Backyard is on exhibit at ArtHaus through September 25, 2010

ArtHaus is located at 411 Brannan Street, San Francisco

Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11am – 6pm and on Saturdays from Noon-5pm

http://www.arthaus-sf.com/

For further information phone: (415) 977-0223

Beautiful cottages

2010-06-10T09:14:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite magazines is Canada's "House and Home" and their online gallery is also really inspirational. I particularly like these cottages - they're not twee or full of rose prints either:

Industrial chic

2010-06-02T11:22:00.001-07:00

Mixing old and new, vintage and modern, antique and minimalist always appeals to me.

Take this scheme for instance, the bright, sunny settee paired with a rustic wooden table with iron legs just says loft-style living.

Add a couple of parson's chair covered in linen:

An antique rug, faded to perfection:

Even a reproduction cinema flood light:

The sparkle of an art deco inspired floor mirror:

Even a hint of the Orient:

Items from Restoration Hardware, Laura Ashley & Horchow.

ArtHaus (San Francisco) widens the bridge between art and design

2010-05-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

Last year ArtHaus introduced “the FINE ART OF DESIGNers”, an exhibition featuring visual art from some of the Bay Area’s most accomplished interior designers. The roster included; Gioi Tran /Applegate Tran Interiors, Katherine Bloodworth/ Wheeler Design Group, Kevin Hackett/Siol Studios, Candace Barnes/Candace Barnes Home and Steve Henry/BAMO. To complete the exhibition, Lawanna Endonino/Lawanna Cathleen Design created a lavish nod to film noir with her Collector’s Salon in the Project Gallery at ArtHaus. Here she incorporated furnishings and accessories from the San Francisco Design Center with select works from the ArtHaus Collection. The show was a benefit for Philanthropy By Design.

This month, in further support of Art and Design, Kendall Wilkinson Design & Home collaborates with ArtHaus to present “RED, WHITE and BLUE-TIFUL”. Here a selection of lush, bold colors compliment the works of Carolyn Meyer, Ricardo Carbajal Moss, Gioi Tran and Jeffery Ketcham. The show opened in celebration of the Sacramento Street ArtWalk, and continues through June 25th.

“Designer/Artist, Tracey Kessler was a major inspiration for “the FINE ART OF DESIGNers” at ArtHaus”, says Gallerist James Bacchi. “Her process is extremely interesting; venturing from interiors to lighting design, then on to two dimensional abstraction as a launching pad for textile design.”

JakHOME is currently hosting SCREENPRINTS 2010 by Tracey Kessler. The pairing is outstanding.

Val Fiscalini, Val Fiscalini Designs, is featuring oil on plaster on wood paintings by ArtHaus Gallery Artist Marc Lambrechts in her YOUNG INGENUE SUITE at the Marin Designer Showcase.

San Francisco Decorator Showcase

2010-05-05T11:24:00.001-07:00

My gorgeous friend, Ilonka has graciously invited me to a private viewing of the SF Decorator Showcase in mid-May - but I was chomping at the bit and couldn't resist a quick peek yesterday! I really didn't take it all in, so am very pleased to be having a second viewing. Thanks Ilonka! Here are my favourites so far.

Will Wick's dreamy bedroom - the thought that went into making this space is just - WOW.... from the art work, the handwritten letters in a bundle tied with string, the portraits, the bedding, the bed!!! The Moroccan hanging lamp and the chair suspended from the ceiling.... I LOVE it:

De Meza + Architects + Interiors did a spectacular job in this bathroom - loved the tiles which read "Don't forget to wash behind your ears":

Philpotts & Associates did a breathtaking cozy retreat - the colours and use of materials was knock-out:

There was also a side balcony which was so private and had stunning views (loved the orange chairs too):

Val Fiscalini's ebony and ivory bathroom was stunning:

Last, but certainly not least, Benjamin Dhong's "Aerie" was sexy and smoky.... lots tactile fabrics and so calming:

The Showcase is located at 3450 Washington Street, San Francisco
from May 1st until May 31st

Banksy

2010-05-01T14:14:00.000-07:00

I was really pleased to hear that the British graffiti artist, Banksy has left his mark in San Francisco, specifically Chinatown and the Mission. He's been a mysterious superstar in London for many years, some of his work is owned by the likes of Brad & Angelina and Christine Aguilera. These stars are willing to pay hundreds of thousands to own his work!

The Mail on Sunday did an investigation to try and out him - they claim he is 34 year old Robin Gunningham from Bristol, England but the artist's agent, Steve Lazarides, denied the reports.

He's a hugely influential character with strong political views which he shows in both his drawings and his quotes - he's a couple of my favourites:

"Some people become cops because they want to make the world a
better place. Some people become vandals because they want to
make the world a better looking place."

"A lot of mothers will do anything for their children,
except let them be themselves."

Finally, Thierry Guetta, a French filmmaker living in Los Angeles tracked Banksy down and has made a short film on him. I cannot wait to see it and get a little more insight into this artists' mind. It's called "Exit Through the Gift Shop".

Chinatown:

Valencia Street:

Some of Banksy's art:

Banksy's graffeti - London:

New York:

Black and white with a rustic twist

2010-04-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

I've posted before about loving black and white interiors. Looking through Canadian House & Home's website, I was struck by the classic use of black and white but if you notice, most of these spaces have a rustic element too - by using natural woods.

Bouquets to Art at the de Young, San Francisco

2010-04-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

My friend Laura kindly invited me to join her at the de Young's "Bouquets to Art" event which opened yesterday. Members only got in earlier too which was a blessing as the queues were very long! Thanks Laura!

The florists pick a painting or photograph and then make their interpretation of it with flowers. Stunning!

SF Gate's Bay List - Cast Your Votes

2010-04-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

There's a lot of buzz going around San Francisco at the moment..... it's SF Gate's Bay list. My gorgeous friend James Bacchi and his gallery ArtHaus are in the top 3 and SO deserve to be No. 1. James is so passionate about the artists he represents and his gallery is always full to the brim of amazing art.

Carolyn Meyer's Tuscan scenes

Inside ArtHaus

ArtHaus' mascot - Fred

Please vote for ArtHaus:

http://baylist.sfgate.com/arthaus/biz/548113

Please vote for Valerie Wills Interiors too:
http://baylist.sfgate.com/valerie-wills-interiors/biz/546903

Looking for a bargain

2010-04-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

Remember a few blogs ago.... I did the flowers for Ilonka and Scott's wedding in Tahoe? Well, I'm also working with them on their home. The bedroom is done (photos to follow), I'm currently looking for a mirror for the living room and inexpensive art for the office/guest room.

As you know, Jade (my 8 year old daughter) is a great photographer, and I will be using three of her San Francisco sepia prints in the office/guest room, which has been painted a dark espresso brown and is delicious! So the sepia will work beatuifully but I also wanted to add a splash of colour on the dark walls..... take a look at these - I like the red in these vintage Coke ads:

Quite a nice oil painting:

Beautiful Indonnesian carved piece:

Cute European scenes and only $6 each!!!!

I think I'm going to go back and get this Chinese painter - isn't he great for $12??

Then of course I got carried away and found lots of other treasures - like these old library index card holders:

Beautiful detail on the handles:

Another vintage cabinet - would look great in a little nook:

This chair has such a great feel about it:

Really wanted to purchase these doors with stained glass detail and great lock:

Gorgeous library table to hold beautiful design or art books (do not like the rug!):

Cute rustic bench:

Kitsch really isn't my style:

Another beautiful side table:

Finally - wouldn't this make a great conversation piece? I would totally love to own this:

Books, books, books

2010-04-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

I've been obsessed with design books for a long time now! When I first moved to London and got my own place, cash was tight... so I joined a design book club and that's when it all began!

It doesn't just stop at design books though.... my parents have a holiday home in Wales in the North West of England and I absolutely love shopping there... the little Welsh villages are packed with antique and vintage stores and lots and lots of book shops. I always come back with some beautiful old books:

I inherited my Grandmother's hymn and prayer books which are so sweet (just like she was!):

In my kitchen, I have two bookshelves packed with cookbooks:

I really like Hugh Johnston's wine books:

Then there's all my travel books:

Lastly, lots of classics picked up in Cambridge, England:

Invitation to an amazing exhibition

2010-03-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

If you are in San Francisco tomorrow

(April 1st - no foolin),
then come along to

ArtHaus (411 Brannan Street)

and see this fabulous exhibition
from 6pm to 8pm.

ON THE SURFACE
Selected works in various media by:
Marc Lambrechts, Andrea Arroyo, Gioi Tran, Serena Bocchino,
Adam Kurtzman, Carolyn Meyer and Maxine Solomon

PHOTOPLAY
Solarized to Digitized
Works by: Astrid, Michal Venera,
Chris Schiavo and Jess Johnston

SUMMER IN ITALY
New paintings by Carolyn Meyer
On exhibit at:
555 California Street (Concourse Gallery) San Francisco
Through May 8, 2010

Hope to see you there!