Exotic Delight: The “Palm House” & The Interior Embellishment With “Palms”

Distinction On Display: The Glory Of The Palm & The Beauty Of The “Palm House”

Elegance paired with stunning architecture: the “Palm House”. Iconic Remnants of the grand Victorian era, “Palm Houses” are formal glass and iron greenhouses, of stately stature, towering over the enclosed lush, green and exotic world of palms. Grand symbols of an era of elegance, for certain. Established to specialize in the growing of palms and other tropical and subtropical plants, the “Palm House” provides a visual warmth to our senses in acknowledging their requirement for constant heat to duplicate the natural environment for these lush green treasures. Tropical ambience paired with Victorian structures. Originally built as status symbols in Victorian Britain, these ornate glass and iron structures grace the landscapes they are situated upon. In time, the appearance of these houses of palms would go beyond Britain’s boundaries. Constructed by iron makers, the architectural importance of these houses of “Palms” deserve our appreciation. Large scale structures with an interior iron framework, cast iron truss work paired with glass roofs are a vision to behold. These temperate houses with mezzanine walkways and spiral staircases are stunning and remarkable architecture in glass and iron. Certainly brought forth by great glass pioneers and iron artisans of the era.

Perhaps initial private conservatories of greenhouses were the predecessors of housing exotic, non-native flora before the construction of the grand fabrication of “Palm Houses” that were created for the public’s viewing. Either way, the curvaceous exteriors paired with a steamy interior is a delight in architecture and in the appreciation of tropical foliage that fills our world…

Archived Images: The “Palm House”

“Inspired by Chatsworth, and by the eager searching of the times, Decimus Burton and Richard Turner designed the much larger Palm House in London’s Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, where they were the supervising architects. Palm House is 363 feet long by 100 feet wide and rises to a height of 66 feet. Besides educating visitors in the natural world, one of the functions of the English greenhouses at the time was to display the exotic range of plants and flowers that flourished in the British Empire”
- G.E. Kidder Smith/Looking at Architecture

Architectural Distinction: The Palm House

An Architectural Jewel Paired With Divine Green Palms

Botanical Structures Of Elegance: The “Palm House”

Botanical Distinction Of Enormous Diversity: The Palm

And of the inclusion of the palm within the interior? A natural addition of style, for certain. The appreciation of the palm plant within the interior brings thoughts of warm breezes and fresh air. The palm itself, classified as Arecaceae, is from the botanical family of perrennial lianas, shrubs and trees called Palmae or Palmaceae. With leaves that have a “tubular sheath at the base that usually splits open on one side at maturity”. The common representation is said to be that of a solitary shoot ending in a crown of leaves. Beauty in a crown of leaves, for certain. The trunk itself is said to develop an axillary bud at a leaf node near the base from which a new shoot emerges. Continual emergence of divine growth. Abundant throughout the tropics, palms are distinguished by their “large, compound, evergreen leaves arranged at the top of an unbranched stem”. The historical use and appeal of the exotic palms throughout history validates the importance of this grand plant. Palms have been honored as symbols of victory, peace and even fertility. Perhaps the visual association today of the palm as a symbol of relaxation sets our spirits a flutter when surrounded by the mass of tropical bliss. Peaceful tranquility in green, for certain.

Interior Decoration With “Palms”

Embellishment Of Exotic Cultivation: The “Palm” In The Interior

“Palms” In Bold Wall Papered Statements Of Botanical Style

The Allure & Delight Of The “Palm”

Consider the palms of lush green within the interior world. Inclusions of the palm plant itself or merely an emblem of the palm are perhaps lasting representations of calm and tranquil settings. Lush green beauty of exotic delight. Eternal “Summer” embellishment within the interior, for certain…

Kristin

Sun Protection With Personal Style: The Stylish Shield Of “Sunglasses”

Limiting The Sun’s Rays With Personal Style: Sunglasses

The allure of sun glasses. Protection and self-defense with personal style. Assessing our collections of “Shades” used throughout the year, one cannot help but feel the urge to seek a striking new pair of sunglasses. Perhaps there is no time that Summer’s approach to seek an additional, distinctive, stylish statement to shield ourselves behind. A signature style that expresses our personal style? Indeed…

The protection sunglasses offer against excessive exposure to the sun’s intense rays is also said to improve visual comfort and clarity while protecting the eye from glare. Sunglasses (or sun glasses) are defined as “a form of protective eyewear designed primarily to prevent bright sunlight and high-energy visible light from damaging or discomforting the eyes”. Of interest, in the early 20th century “Sun Glasses” were also known as “Sun Cheaters” (“Cheaters” was an American slang term for glasses). Who knew? These “Spectacles” that limit the amount of absorbed light, providing protection from UV radiation and sun glare, provide the perfect opportunity to accessorize with a stylish embellishment that represent our persona, our whims and our moods. Personal statements that showcase beyond our facial features. The art of accessorizing with statement shades, for certain.

Of course, these objects of protection have a history all their own. In Prehistoric times, the Inuit wore flattened walrus ivory “glasses”, looking through narrow slits to block the intense rays from the sun. Who knew? It is also said that the Roman emperor, Nero, liked to watch gladiator fights while adorning his eyes with emeralds. Imagine! In 12th century China, sunglasses were made from flat panes of smoky quartz as a layer of protection from the sun’s glare. In fact, ancient documents describe the use of these “crystal” sunglasses that were worn by judges in ancient Chinese courts to conceal their eyes while questioning witnesses. Very interesting. Again, who knew? It was in the mid-18th century that the experimentation with tinted lenses in spectacles was undertaken by James Ayscough. Uninterested, however, in sun protection, Ayscough only sought the correction of vision. Either way, tinted shades met the world behind colored hues. Of additional interest, it was not until 1936 that polarized sunglasses (which reduced glare off surfaces such as water) became available after Edwin H. Land’s experimentation with his patented Polaroid filter. It is no wonder that these polarized lenses were popular among fisherman due to the ability to see into the water beyond the glare on the surface. During the early 1900′s, the use and popularity of sunglasses became widespread. In 1929, American Sam Foster introduced inexpensive mass-produced sunglasses. Foster’s first market was on the beaches of Atlantic City, New Jersey. From the interior of the Woolworth located on the boardwalk, Foster embarked on selling sunglasses under the name “Foster Grant”. A successful venture in sun protection was born that would be followed and emulated by countless others. And of the modern standardization of the lenses inserted in frames of style? In 1971 Australia introduced the world’s first national standards for sunglasses. History in sun protection that has come a long way, for certain…

Vintage Objects Of Personal Embellishment & Protection: Sunglasses

Fashion’s Spectacles: The Distinction Of Sunglasses

Sunglasses: An Art Of Personal Style

Mystique Paired With Exposure: Sunglasses

“Sunglasses”: Distinction Of Style With Personality

“Behind The Shades”: Style With Distinction

Whether classic, streamlined or bold in design, the choices of styles of sunglasses are often daunting. But when one finds a pair that suits and meets our fashionable tastes? Thrilling perfection. Oh, the power of the right pair of shades! Like a bold lipstick, or a statement necklace, a pair of shades is a defining focal point of our personal style. Chosen wisely they may be within our collected cachet for years to come. Outliving the initial investment, for certain.

And of the mystique and the implications of nonverbal communication? Part of first impressions? Certainly. Much of life is non-verbal. Who we are is first presented outwardly. Style presents itself. Sunglasses are certainly a personal preference of style. As they say, “The eyes have it”. Indeed, the “mystique” hidden behind a stylish pair of unique shades is irreplaceable. Finding a perfect pair of shades? An ongoing pursuit that can last a lifetime. Stylish shades of enduring and expressive protection, indeed.

Kristin

Beauty Of The Bloom With Intoxicating Scent: The “Lilac”

The Glory Of The Lilac

The fragrant bliss of heavenly intoxication. The Lilac. The infusion of the lilac’s wafting scent is entrancing. In the Springtime the scent that lingers within the great outdoors is seasonal bliss, for certain. Oh, to appreciate the bounty of the bloom that arrives in Spring. A scent that can permeate our inner world with clusters of delicate blooms gathered within the interior. Delightful. Widely cultivated for the fragrance and beauty of their clusters of flowers, lilac flowers are found with a range of colors that include pale lilac, rich lilac and deep lilac. And yes, even the profusion of white blooms are divine. But, oh, the allure of the purple lilac…

The lilac is a shrub of the genus Syringa. A deciduous shrub with foliage of broad, light green to oval glaucous leaves that provide a lush, the green screen remains appealing even after the profusion of lilac blooms fade. Often pruned or trained, with dedication, into a graceful, small tree, the options are varied as to its broad enhancement in ones landscape. Natives of Europe and Asia, the Syringa vulgaris, known as the “common lilac”, and S. Persica, the Persian lilac, were introduced from Ottoman gardens into European gardens at the end of the 16th century. Botanists soon acquired these rare and glorious shrubs for their gardens. In fact, in 1597, the well regarded herbalist, John Gerard, noted that he had lilacs “in very great plenty”. It was not until the 18th century that the American colonies were introduced to the beauty of the lilac. An enduring love affair has certainly continued. Of additional interest, the first recorded use of “lilac” as a color name in English was in 1775 and the first recorded use of “French Lilac” in English was in 1814. The violet hue of French Lilac is said to have been formulated for use in interior design when a medium dark violet color was desired. Who knew?

Considered an “old-fashioned” bloom, the “common lilac” is said to flower profusely in alternate years. The attractive, sweet smelling flowers that appear in late Spring and early Summer feature delicate clusters known as “Panicles”. Paired with intoxicating fragrance, the lilac holds an added benefit beyond its stunning blooms- the attraction of hummingbirds and butterflies…nature’s glory, indeed.

Profusion Of Intoxicating Blooms: Lilacs

Lilac Infusion: Fragrance & Beauty

Consider the glorious lilac. With branches that are bowed under the weight of the seemingly dripping profusions of endless clusters of fragrant flowers, its graceful bliss is certainly to be appreciated.

No matter if the hue is pale or deep violet, the intoxicating scent of this highly fragrant bloom is a blissful gift of nature, indeed…

Kristin

An Acknowledgment Of Mother’s Day…

“No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you-life”
- Anonymous

A Lightweight Classic Of Warm Weather Appeal: The “Chambray Shirt”

Comfort & Style: The Versatile Chambray Shirt

The Chambray Shirt is certainly a classic. A lightweight essential that is continually reinvented within fashion’s archives. A fabric of a soft hue of pale blue, the ultimate chambray becomes better with wear, softening over time. Often, the appeal of what seems subtle effects reminiscent of the effect of “salty sea water” beckons us from the confines of our closets. Lightweight style, indeed. The softening of the color pairs beautifully with a fabric that can be cooling in the heat. And of the chambray “shirt”? The lightweight, comfortable and durable shirt offers not only a relaxed look but the versatility to pair with an elegant or casual attire. Beyond everyday apparel, it is a staple of classic style. Alas, timeless…

With French origins, Chambray fabric is a fine, soft spun, lightweight but dense fabric of woven cotton fabric with white threads across blue colored warps. It is the warp and weft of the woven chambray fabric, that crosses equally, that gives it a fabric structure known as “Chambray”. The fabric is thought to have originated in the Northern City of Cambrai, France between 1595-1600′s. Credited to Jean-Baptiste Chambray, the fabric that has not faded in its appeal. Etymologists believe that the word, first used in the 1500′s, was a synonym for the French word “Batiste”, which is a type of fabric. The fabric was eventually termed “Chambric” which would further evolve in the 1800′s as “Chambray”. Of interest, during the 18th century, Chambray fabric was made from flax linen. Diverse, indeed. Additionally, in the 18th century, French fabric was banned in the United Kingdom. Who knew? Indian Chambray, known as “Nainsook” thus became a popular alternative, arriving to the appeal of the British. It is said that the British referred to these Indian chambrays “Scotch Chambrays” in order that they would not be banned like the French fabrics. Determination of fashion’s desire, for certain! After the 19th century it was made from cotton that was commonly made into shirts, collars, cuffs, handkerchiefs, scarves, sun bonnets, baby clothing, bed linens and table cloths. Again, who knew?

With a history of being a “workhorse”, the chambray shirt was once also referred to as the “blue collar working shirt” or the old term “blue-collar working shirt”, perhaps the importance of chambray can be linked to its use by the US Navy. Adopted by the US Navy in 1901 through WWII, the chambray shirt became part of a uniform of dark denim pants paired with lighter, long sleeve or short sleeve chambray shirts worn unbuttoned at the neck with a white t-shirt or a blue sweater. Quite a history of a shirt. It is perhaps no wonder the salty air seems to denote the sky blue appeal of Chambray. Although the choices of the fabric itself can vary from a heavier weight variety that has the feel of denim to the lightweight appeal of the linen-like or oxford style linen, it can be said that there is an ideal “chambray” for us all…

Vintage Archives Of The “Working Shirt”: Chambray

Vintage Chambray: “President” Chambray

Relaxed Elegance In Chambray Fabric

Lightweight & Relaxed “Chambray”

Durability & Style With Detail Stitching: The “Chambray” Shirt

And of the masculine edge of Chambray? Hollywood perhaps granted the iconic nature of a chambray shirt. The rapid rise of a fabric that layered such golden stars of the screen, such as Steve McQueen, certainly promoted its tough, durable and relaxed nature. A timeless classic that became an icon in its own right. Again, the power of a shirt….

Masculine Appeal Of Iconic Nature: Masculine Edge In “Chambray”

The Classic Chambray Shirt

Consider the lightweight layering of chambray. An instant classic to draw upon time and time again. The traditional bright white stitch lines or triple stitch detailing that provides extra strength will verify the craftsmanship of the chambray shirt. Details in fabrication and style. The fact that it is a layering piece or can stand on its own certainly proves it is seasonless. But, oh, the perfect layer for a Spring day or after a day at the beach! Everyday apparel? For certain. But a timeless classic. Warm weather appeal that will remain a fashionable constant. Effortless and relaxed. Perfection, indeed…

Kristin

Interior Color Inspirations: The Perennial Sunshine Of “Yellow”

The Vibrant Saturation Of Yellow

Mellow and vibrant yellow. Perennial Sunshine. Yellow is certainly a color that adds zest and fresh appeal. The sunny warmth and uplifting impact of yellow works beautifully in a wide range of interior settings. And of the diverse shades of this pleasing hue? Perhaps there is a burst of yellow for all of us…

In the spectrum of visible light, and within the traditional color wheel, yellow falls between the color spectrum of green and orange. The word “Yellow” derives from the Old English words “Geolu” (yellow) and “Geolwe” (yellowish), taken from the Proto-Germanic word “Gelwaz”. The Indo-European base “Ghel” (bright and gleaming, to cry out) and the word “Yell” are said to be the same. Who knew? Yellow, in the form of the ochre pigment made from clay, was one of the first colors used in Prehistoric cave art. In fact, in Ancient Egypt, yellow was associated with gold, considered to be imperishable, eternal and indestructible. It is no wonder the Egyptians would then believe that the bones of the Gods were of gold! Again, who knew? The Egyptians extensively used the color yellow in tomb paintings. The Ancient Romans also used yellow in their paintings to represent gold and skin tones. It was during the 18th and 19th century that the discovery and manufacture of synthetic pigments and dyes would bring forth a renewed and further appreciation and use of the color yellow.

And of the array of yellow’s hues that we may embellish our interior spaces? Personal preferences, yet again, in tone and depth of a color that provides endless sunshine into our spaces…

Yellow: Uplifting Impact With Golden Appeal

Interior Enhancement In “Cheerful” Yellow

The Sublime “Mellow Yellow”

Consider the uplifting and joyous color of yellow. Whether you choose a buttery richness of mellow hue or a bold vibrancy that emulates the sun’s brilliant rays, the color yellow will certainly bring you countless moments of pleasure in its surrounds. Like the vibrancy of a yellow lemon or the pale color of yellow-gold, the spectrum of yellow is sure to delight…

Kristin

“Some painters transform the sun with a yellow spot; others transform a yellow spot into the sun”- Pablo Picasso

“Now we are having a beautiful warm, windless weather that is very beneficial to me. The sun, a light that for lack of better word I can only call yellow, bright sulphur yellow, pale lemon gold. How beautiful yellow is!” -Vincent Van Gogh

Vibrant Celebrations In Bright & Brilliant Color: The Mexican Holiday “Cinco De Mayo”

Cinco De Mayo (“Fifth Of May”): Vibrant Celebrations Of Mexican Heritage & Culture

Vivid colors of vibrant celebrations. “Cinco De Mayo”. Beyond the visual associations of the vivid colors of Mexican fiestas paired with lime green margaritas or bold Sangria infused with fruit, the holiday itself is a ‘fiesta’ celebrated beyond Mexico’s borders.

The Mexican holiday, “Cinco De Mayo” (Spanish for “Fifth Of May”) in the United States and regionally in Mexico as the State of Puebla, called El Dia de la Batalla de Puebla (The Day of the Battle of Puebla on May 5th of 1862) is a celebration commemorating the anniversary of Mexican triumph over French forces. The holiday itself is said to have originated with Mexican-American communities in the American West, Southwest and Northwest in the 1860′s. The celebration grew in popularity and would eventually evolve into a celebration of Mexican heritage and national pride that expanded across the United States. This highly colorful, commemorative day holds celebrations that highlight Mexican culture, cuisine, music and regional dancing paired with festive embellishments and decorations. A colorful explosion, for certain.

While the sounds of the Mariachi bands donning traditional colorful sombreros swirl in our minds and the visions of colorful pinatas and other authentic touches of bold, brilliant and bright colors that set a festive mood, the celebration of a lively culture thrives on the “Fifth of May”. Celebrations of life with intense color, indeed….

Now…for that refreshing Sangria! Cheers!

Kristin

Landscaped Walls Of Division: The Distinction Of The “Hedge”

Cultivation Of Distinction: Hedges

The green “living wall”. The beauty and glory of the vibrant green hedge. A natural divide that, in terms of landscaping, is defined as a row of closely planted shrubs or low-growing trees that form a fence or boundary. A visual barrier of green…

The formation of a hedge, trained into a suitable hedge shape, is dependent upon the gardener’s commitment to the constant pruning and shaping. And we must not forget patience in growth. Although some plantings require several years to mature, the beauty is worth the investment of time. On that note, evergreens are said to grow at a more rapid rate. The choice of shrubs for hedge plantings vary. Whether deciduous, broadleaf-evergreen or adorned with evergreen needles, the options are certainly dependent upon one’s desire to create a hedge of either a formal or informal style. (Oh, I simply must admit to my love of the evergreen formal hedge!). The most common shrubs for hedges are Privet, with its dark green oval leaves, the Yew, the needled evergreen shrub, and the Boxwood, the small green leafed plant of distinction. (Ahhh, the boxwood. I have previously focusses on this elegant and versatile shrub in a past post: “The Stately Boxwood”). Whatever shrub is chosen to grace your exterior world, it will certainly become a focal point of beauty and elegance in nature.

Perhaps we can consider those that devote their time and maintain a commitment to the diligent pruning and shaping over time of these hedges of green as artists. Artists of nature. Attentive to details, the artisan of the world of the gardener and the landscaper has a history of its own, for certain.

The Hedge: Shaped Perfection Of Nature

Natural Walls & Openings Of Shaped Greens: The Hedge

And of the “doorways” and arches that can be created through the shaped masses and expanse of green? Entrancing. Wonderous to behold and perhaps present a mystique of a real life fairytale. Nature is, after all, magical.

Consider the distinctive addition of the hedge. A natural form of privacy that provides enjoyment with its division. Permanent privacy divisions of lush green foliage that also provide an element of exterior garden landscaping. A stunning backdrop in any setting, indeed…

Kristin

The Divided Door: The Versatile “Dutch Door”

Unique Architecture Of Form & Function: The “Dutch Door”

Split style. The appeal of the “Dutch Door” is enduring. Divided in the center, “Dutch Doors” are known for their unusual construction of being separated into two halves that can be opened and closed independently of each other. Versatility, indeed. Referred to as a “Dutch Door” in American English, “Stable Door” in British English or “Half Door” in Hiberno English (Irish English), the “Dutch Door” was also referred to as a “Double-Hung Door” in early New England.

Common in the Netherlands during the 17th century as an entry door, the “Dutch Door” would soon find itself as a standard fixture in exterior doorways within the kitchen during that time. Period appropriate to homes built before the 1880′s, the “Dutch Door” certainly harkens back to a different era. Early American Dutch colonies that settled in New York and New Jersey brought with them this versatile and practical door. During a time period where barbed wire and the screen door had not been invented to keep animals from wandering into the interiors the flexibility and appeal of the door was furthered by the fact that it also kept children or domestic animals inside. Who knew its simple beginnings of function and purpose? The added benefit of allowing light and air to filter into a home through the open top became a key element that carried onward in architectural design history. What had become almost a necessity by design greatly influenced Colonial home design. The iconic design of the “Dutch Door” has continued to appear in homes throughout the world. An enduring appeal, for certain…

Hinges & Division Of Versatility: The “Dutch Door”

“Woman At A Dutch Door”, Samuel van Hoogstraten, 1645

Two Part Style: The “Dutch Door”

Those that have inherited or have added this architectural feature surely enjoy the benefits of the form and function of this divided door. A pivotal feature for enjoyment in the Spring and Summer months with warm and fresh breezes flowing inward and a delight as the cooler Autumnal winds blow. Seasonless appreciation, perhaps, when a rush of fresh air is required during any time of the year. Attractive distinction within the interior and a unique element for the exterior view that allows fresh air to circulate with architectural style. The divided “Dutch” Door”. Versatile and appealing, indeed…

Kristin

The Demure And Bold Elegance Of “Pink” Lipstick

“Pink Lipstick”

With the official arrival of Spring, perhaps there is no better time to peruse through one’s collection of lipsticks and lip color. An array of choices that more than likely provides a range of palettes in color choices to match one’s Seasonal whim and fancy. And what of the shade of pink? Certainly, the choices are endless if the need for a new shade of inspiration in a hue of pink is required. Oh, we all do so love a new tube of lipstick at the beginning of a new Season! And for certain, there is a perfect shade of pink for all. No matter the age, every woman can don a hue of pink lipstick magnificence….

“Pink Lipstick”

Fashion’s Archives: Pink Lipstick

Variations Of “Pink”: The Allure Of Pink Lipstick

Timeless Color: The “Pink” Lip

The “Pink” Palette: Classic Lip Color

Whether a sweet, demure soft pink or a bold and vibrant statement in fuchsia pink, “pink” lipstick is sure to add instant gratification. An indulge in pleasure. Spring, indeed. Whether a rich satin, creme finish or a matte application that slides on the lips luxuriously or a saturated stain or high gloss shine, the variations of texture with long-lasting pigmented color will deliver a beautiful focal point to one’s face. One’s perfected “pout”…

Fashion Forward: “Pink” Lip Style

A Bold Pout. (Model, Lara Stone)

And of the gorgeous and bold addition of shocking color with a daring and vibrant fuchsia ? Alas, a fearless color that assimilates itself to the bold strength of the red lip (my perennial favorite, indeed). Like red lipstick, the brave magenta hue certainly can create a signature look. I, for one, adore a deep, bold lip. Daring color. Indeed, there is no timidity when embellishing one’s lip with a swipe of bright, vivid and perhaps shocking pink. A luscious lip. Although the vivid hues may not be for everyone, I applaud the woman that don’s these rich hues of vibrant and lavish intensity. Full lips with intense color, for certain…

Vivid Color: The Bold Fuchsia Lip Color

Whether flaunting a rosy ‘pout’ of subtle and demure elegance or striking drama, the “pink” lip will always be in fashion. A constant perhaps by Seasonal fascination. The embellishment of the lip with color. Sublime. Consider pink. Like the red lip, perhaps it is an addition of attitude. Either way, it is instant delight. Once applied, instant color that embellishes the lips adds warmth to the face and perhaps provides a brighter outlook. Who knew the power lipstick holds? Power, indeed. Without fear, as always. And of my devotion to the hot pink hue of intensified color? Without fear, indeed.

Kristin