Category Archives: INSPIRATION

INSPIRATION

MANTEL APPEAL

absolutely noteworthy

Styling a mantelpiece can pose decorating challenges. Often the focal point of a room, the simplest approach it to start with the largest element, a mirror or fabulous piece of art. Add unexpected accessories that are visually appealing with a touch of mystery. Be fearless!

 

mantel tables

table frames

MANTEL APPEAL

Build visual connections with colour and form, unless you choose to play with scale and introduce a
surprisingly small piece of art.
Pictured Right:
Photo of Designer Daryl Carter’s mantel

mantel livingroom

 

In this example we chose complimentary textures, tones and materials. Horn and wood combine with black and white art, crystal and quartz to compose a mantelpiece that leads the eye upward to Michael Snow’s “Walking Woman” Lithograph from 1965.

table objects

INSPIRATION

FRANCOIS CATROUX DECORATOR

absolutely noteworthy

francois cartroux design

francois cartoux coupleFRANCOIS CATROUX

When searching for design inspiration, the restrained eclecticism of French decorator Francois Catroux, always excites the eye and stimulates the senses. Born in Paris, Catroux founded his design firm in the 1960s and has since been in the vanguard of French design, alongside his wife YSL muse Betty Catroux.

 

“I love a mélange. But I hate copies and will not do faux Louis XVI!” – Francois Catroux

Catroux seamlessly mixes decades and styles with his use of antique furniture, curated art objects and contemporary lighting producing ultra chic, layered interiors. Combining the finest examples of pieces from various periods creates an interesting, unexpected environment that is both timeless and very much of the moment.

 

PHOTO BY FRANÇOIS HALARD

 

francois cartoux living room