OPPOSITES ATTRACT
Within nature's context - green is the ultimate
neutral. A platform. A stage upon which all
colors are showcased. However it is equally
pleasing on it's own. Amongst my favorite
spaces was interior designer Billy Baldwin's
living room at Amster Yard circa 1948. His
lacquered magnolia leaf green walls created
an oasis that was both striking and soothing.
Equally important - everything that was set
within said space looked amazing. Which is
the role that dark green also plays during the
holiday season. Especially when positioned
against it's color wheel opposite, red.
Color experts know that mixing extremes can
deliver maximum impact. However in our all
too neutral world - even the best of interior
decorators can play it too safe. While living
in a grey or taupe cocoon may soothe one's
soul - it can be a bit dull. Which is why an
occasional pop of color can literally change
your world. Mid-century interior designer
George Stacey deftly mixed primary hues in
the most elegant ways. Consider the ivory
hued space shown at right. Red and green
carpets provided a vibrant foundation. The
added touches of gilt and a saffron bergere
put it over the top. And voila très magnifique!
When it comes to decorative bravado - few mixed
things up better than Dorothy Draper. Her tour de
force being the Greenbrier Hotel. Tasked with the
formidable task of reinventing a history property
in West Virginia. Said lady transformed tradition
with a panache that has since stood the test of time.
Over scaled architectural details were installed and
painted them chalk white. The walls, floors, and
furniture was swathed in a range of primary hues.
The result (top & left photos) being anything but
a Christmas card greeting. All of which proves
that opposites not only attract but work fabulously
when pitted against each other. While also adding
more than a bit kinetic energy to almost any space.
Fortunately there is one season when we all can
play safely against the odds. One can't help but
feel merry when surrounded by a vibrant mix of
holly berry reds and deep ever greens. At C+V
we set our table with an easy yet engaging mix
of the tried and true with a twist. Rather than
fuss we left the table bare. Crisp burgundy linen
contrasts with the green of the Quimper tureen. Mixed ruby red and forest green glassware add
a festive touch yet are dishwasher safe. All of
which anybody can do at home. All you have
to do is search your cabinets for holiday goodies
or stop at C+V HOME. It's ready and set to GO!
Are you all set?
IT'S ONLY TWELVE DAYS TIL CHRISTMAS!
Go over the edge
CROTCHED LINEN NAPKINS
$4.99 each
Set a berry special table
FITZ & FLOYD WINTERBERRY
$10 - $24 per plate
Protect your borders
GREEN EDGED NAPKINS
$6.99 each
Color your world
MULTI-HUED VINTAGE GLASSWARE
From $9 a stem
Wreath the benefits
EMBROIDERED CUTWORK COCKTAIL NAPKINS
$24.00 for twelve
Scallop ahead
BAVARIAN BONE CHINA SALAD PLATES
$3 each
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