I Designed a Room Around My Favorite Outfit
I fell in love with many different outfits in this month’s InStyle magazine (May 2016 issue)… but strangely enough I fell in love with an outfit that, at a glance, is so not me! I’m not sure I have a set style but I normally don’t button and sweater up. I am a Connecticut girl so the demure lady reveals herself on occasion. Mostly it’s the colors, softness and pattern with a touch of gold that I’m vibing on. Mix it with some neutrals, leathers, suedes and bam! You’ve got instant style.
Photo courtesy of InSTYLE Magazine March 2016
This article was about Instant Style: Summer Whites… so everything stems from the crisp white shirt. I use a bright, white linen sofa as my anchor and build around it. The room had to be pretty and current, just like the outfit. Take a look and SHOP AWAY!
1.Camel Arm Chair // 2. Linen Apartment Sofa // 3. Leather Sling Table // 4. Malachite Accent Table //
5. Fritz Floor Lamp // 6. Agate Bookends // 7. Oregano Console // 8. Diego Throw Pillow //
9. Olive Throw Pillow // 10. Standing Planter // 11.Perf Side Table //12. Camel Lounge Chair //
13. Marble Table // 14. White Side Table // 15. Macaroon Rug // 16. Antler Print // 17. Blue Moon Print //
18. Mid-Century Lounger // 19. Poppy Pillow Cover// 20. Arrow Pillow Cover
Outfit:
Tips To Create A Fab Outdoor Living Space
An outdoor living room is a must in South Florida. But with summer approaching we all need a little nature lovin’ space. It must be cozy for quiet family time and for entertaining, it must be a great place to eat or read, and it must function at night and during the day — in short, it’s a needy environment! That’s ok, I love needy… it’s a design puzzle I love to solve. There are many different ways to achieve this, here are some of my tips:
- Outlet Furnishings: The Restoration Hardware outlet in South Florida is a wonderful place to purchase great product at a discounted price. You are limited to what is on the showroom floor, but usually there is more than enough to choose from. For this outdoor, poolside sitting area I found neutral cushions and deep seating in a more traditional style. It was perfect for the small space available.
2. Pool Face Lift: This pool was dated and drab. I gave it an easy face lift with inexpensive, porcelain rectangular tile. Then carried that tile along the pool parameter just above the waterline. It didn’t cost much and it instantly updated the look. This project requires a professional pool tile installer but in a few days you can have a pool that looks new. No need to go with the traditional tile recommended by a pool supply company. Glass, porcelain or stone will all work, just wet a piece first to be sure you like the color when wet. The client had beautiful, expensive teak furniture that had grayed in the sun. I power-washed it and oiled it down to bring it back to it’s natural color. Then bought a few inexpensive pillows at Home Depot…voila!
3. Lounge Seating: This client had old, broken furniture that she bought years ago at a discount store. Investing in great outdoor furniture is smart. This is the type of product that takes a beating with weather and heat. This set I found at Carl’s Patio and I matched the color palette to some planters the client already had (see in the background). I also used a bamboo tree to camouflage an unsightly drain pipe. Then put up some outdoor drapery on the slider from the master bedroom to soften it up.
4. Sun Coverage: Most importantly, splurge on a great outdoor umbrella. This is a cantilevered commercial grade product and I had it mounted in concrete in the ground. It’s sturdy! This is a product that will last for at least five years without a hitch. Also the commercial grade fabric will stand up to the hot Florida sun without fading. So here is a great place to invest some coin.
5. Hanging Bed: Yep, I said it. A hanging bed is not for everyone but it should be! This lanai had a perfect narrow spot for a unique feature. This is a fully waterproof mattress and cover with great draining capabilities. Anti-bacterial and mildew resistant in every way. You need a master carpenter to hang this properly. I got this one at The Porch Swing Company.
6. No Real Wood! I always recommend to my clients to steer clear of real wood in an outdoor space. It rots, molds, bugs love it and it won’t last long. These are tables I had on my patio and they became infested with termites. Even with full coverage from the elements, it’s best to go with the new wood and rattan looking products made of resins, ceramics, and man made materials. Or just stick with metal finishes. Even though teak is beautiful and a hearty wood, it needs a lot of upkeep like regular power washing, sanding and oiling. Don’t we all want more time for cocktail hour and less time sanding furniture? Enjoy your summer!
My Current Obsessions From West Elm
Most of my clients for my interior design business like me to use high-end brands like Donghia and Holly Hunt when choosing pieces for their homes, but I love a good bargain and my own home has pieces from Z Gallerie, West Elm and even IKEA! Shhh! Don’t tell…
As a matter of fact, I have a West Elm night stand in my master bedroom. It’s one of my favorite dressers because it is clean, white and still warm. The wood tile veneer is very cool. And it’s so important to have storage whenever possible. The three drawers are roomy.
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
West Elm has some great stuff going on right now that is really affordable. It’s also a fabulous mix of iconic mid-century profiles with rustic pieces, tailored upholstery as well as a little bling. Honestly, it’s super on-trend. For that reason I am currently obsessed! It’s like a hot date, you don’t know where it’s going or how long it will last but for now “I’m in love”!
Here are a few of my picks:
1.Mid-Century Bench // 2. Mylo Chair // 3. Loom Chair // 4. Peggy Sofa //
5. Mattelasse Duvet // 6. Hexagon Cluster // 7. Sylvie Print // 8. Lacquer Dresser //
9. Modern Bed // 10. Outdoor Dining Chair // 11.Mosaic Bistro //12. Table Lamp //
13. Pallette Bedding // 14. Organic Sham //16. Lacquer Nightstand // 17. Jute Rug //
18. Jeweled Dresser // 19. Malone Console // 20. Maise Table // 21. Billie Sofa //
22. Ombre Pendant // 23. Deco Sconce // 24. Leather Dining Chair // 25. Carraway Table
Luxury Linens 101
I love my sleep and I think investing in the best sheets and bedding you can afford is a must. High quality sheets, a duvet cover and fluffly pillows are little luxuries that you can give to yourself for the best night’s sleep possible.
Sheets:
The quality and feel of a sheet depends on the number of threads woven per inch. The higher the thread count, the softer and more durable the sheet: Look for a thread count of at least 200, and you will see a big difference if you go up to 300-350. The fiber that the sheet is made of is also important. It can be silk, cotton, linen (the best and most expensive) or a blend. Linen sheets are great for warmer clients (hello, Palm Beach!) and high quality linen sheets can last for ten years or more! Cotton sheets are great for all seasons and become softer the more you wash them.
Linen Bedding by Moods
Pillows:
The right pillow is everything! It is key that your pillow supports your head and neck comfortably. Some people love soft pillows and some firm or somewhere in between. Using a pillow protector over your pillow (in addition to a pillowcase) will help protect your pillows from wear and tear.
The filling of a pillow is also important. Cotton pillows are naturally hypoallergenic but can become compacted over time. Down pillows are considered the best because of their longevity. Some pillows are down blends, but pure down is true luxury! Feather pillows are stiffer than down and can offer firmer support. Finally, Polyester feels similar to down and maintains its resilience over time. Like cotton, polyester filling is a good choice for people with allergies.
Duvets:
This is the fun part for an interior designer. The right duvet and and throw pillows can transform the space. I always like to think about functionality too, though. A beautiful duvet that is not soft enough would not work for my bed!
Master Bedroom by Krista Watterworth
Hotel Beds:
Ever slept on amazing bedding in a hotel? Many hotels now sell everything on the bed, from the pillow to the sheets to the duvet and even the mattress! I love the idea of this…it makes shopping so easy, and gives you a chance to try out different types of linens before you purchase. Some hotels even have a pillow “menu” and let guest choose firm or soft, feathers, etc…genius!
My picks:
5 Interior Design Trends And What I Think Of Them
Ah, trends. They come and go each year, and its hard to know which ones will stick around and are worth investing in.
Here are some of the trends for 2016-17 and what I think of them:
- Using Outdoor Fabric Indoors: This one I love and have used in many of my designs! Outdoor fabrics are so durable and stain resistant, they are great for young families who are concerned about using light colors. Outdoor fabrics now look like indoor fabrics… there are linens, cottons, even velvet! I used a Perennials outdoor linen on these slipcovers below. Upholstered dining room chairs take a beating. It’s a great place to switch to waterproof fabrics.
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
2. Not-So-White Kitchens: White kitchens are definitely in, but I think a kitchen that is too white can look sterile. I encourage my clients to add a pop of color and a mix of textures to add layers and interest in my designs. If a white or very light kitchen is on your must-haves list, add color with furnishings and add dimension with wood or natural accents. This eliminates the coldness and brightness of a pure white canvas.
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
3. Modern Mixed With Traditional: This is a trend? Well this pretty much defines much of my work, so it is definitely one I love. I have lived in Connecticut, New York City and Palm Beach and I love mixing edgy with traditional touches. In this bedroom I mixed a modern headboard with traditional antique chairs. The hotel bedding is more traditional and the light fixture is a contemporary take on a crystal chandelier. The fireplace on the other side of the room is definitely a modern contrast to the rest of the room.
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
4. Locally Sourced Accessories: With the popularity of sites like Etsy (which I LOVE) “handmade” objects are more and more on trend. To a creative person, it’s inspiring. It’s also a way for me to give my clients homes a more “personal” touch with one-of-a-kind elements. Mixing antique items with high end newly purchased elements, found things, and some of the client’s personal pieces is how I accessorized this home.
5. Re-purposing Timbers & Finishes: A re-purposed farm table will never go out of style. But I am a Connecticut girl, University of Connecticut has the biggest and most sought after Agriculture program on the east coast. I hope that the re-purposing trend never ends. We need to savor what’s around us.
Design by Krista Watterworth Alterman
Check out my post on the uber popular trend of gold accents in fashion and home design.
Happy trending!
5 Kitchens 5 Styles
It’s a cliche but it’s a true statement: the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s s design challenge for me every single time because this is the room that needs to function efficiently and the bar is set super high on style. Pinterest and Houzz showcase the best of the best and my clients now want kitchens that look like their favorite pins! Not an easy task because of many different factors like price, space and time frame. That being said, let’s tour some of my favorites!
- Contemporary: The original kitchen was literally one-third the size of my final design. (See “Before” image below). We whipped this kitchen into the twentieth century! It was a fun project and I got to work with some amazing custom cabinetry makers Max Irvine at Cabinets By Design.
Kitchen by Krista Watterworth
BEFORE
2. Classic: This is a contemporary take on a classic shaker style kitchen. I used materials that feel old-school like hand-painted cabinetry and marble counters. But added some modern lighting, range hood, and hardware.
Kitchen by Krista Watterworth
3. Modern: This international couple wanted a European look – very sleek, simple and clean. I used concrete-look counters, frosted glass garage upper cabinets, and ceramic backsplash. The exposed bulb pendants are my favorite!
Kitchen by Krista Watterworth
4. Country: This young family wanted a country-coastal look. Their home is on the water but they love farmhouse style. I put in a divider with an open X-pattern. The cup pulls and painted tongue and groove on the island finishes the look. It’s white, bright and open.
Kitchen by Krista Watterworth
5. Transitional: This kitchen was quite outdated and the layout was confining. We removed some of the cabinetry and painted the rest. We also brought the island down to counter height and one level. The contemporary coffer, fan, island pendants and hardware was an appealing contrast.
Kitchen by Krista Watterworth
How to Add Gold Accents to Your Home
Gold is in, let’s face it. There’s no pretending it’s not anymore. It’s back, and it’s here to stay (for the moment) both in fashion and home design. I mix metals throughout a home because I think that makes a space feel alive and less designed. I even mix metals in my jewelry (mostly because I’m in a rush to get out the door in the morning!) I even changed my logo adding gold and silver elements. Bling, bling!
Touches of gold throughout are a fun accent to any style space. In this master bedroom I pair gold bowls with silver mirror frames. So you don’t have to get rid of your silver, chrome or antique bronze accessories – just add a touch of gold among them.
This tablescape shows a mix of nickel, chrome and gold. All objects belonged to the homeowner, I like to showcase their personal items in a new, fresh way. You can see the legs on the table are black iron, so it’s really about balance.
Some of my favorite gold accents are simple, easy pieces. You can add a few to your wardrobe as well to feel a little more glam.
1.Pleated Skirt // 2. Sequined Purse // 3. Python iPhone Case // 4. Linda Sandal //
5. Sneakers // 6. Wall Sconce7. End Table // 8. 1948 Teacup //
9. Pedastal Table // 10. Malachite Tissue Cover // 11.Futura Frame //12. Graphic Art //
13. Table Lamp // 14. Console Table //16. Mirror Tray // 17. Chandelier //
Purple Rain
I never meant to cause you any sorrow.
I never meant to cause you any pain.
I only wanted to see you laughing…
I only wanted to see you laughing
In the purple rain.
-Prince
Cowtan & Tout vinyls wallpaper, snappy in black // Ann Sacks concrete field tile Pacchia in kohl and milk //
Knoll Textiles upholstery fabric Woodland in alder // Knoll Textiles upholstery fabric Summit KT collection in bloom
LA Hardware 4″ square pull polished nickel SRP-823 // Restoration Hardware Wood finish black acacia //
Romo fabric, Picus zinnia, Fougere collection // Romo fabric, Biella boysenberry Marlow collection //
Manuel canovas, Velvet Foch in glycine // Duralee fabrics Cobra cabana in wisteria //
Duralee fabrics, pattern 32747 in amethyst // Plane porcelain panels, Marquina vena //
Cowtan & Tout naturals, wallpaper Sharkskin in silver
Room by Room Guide on Using Floral Decor In Your Home
Flowers can brighten up a room and change an entire space. A recent study at Rutgers University even said that flowers are known to improve a person’s mood and evoke happiness!
I personally love fresh flowers in a space, but there are also some great faux options available now. My super secret designer rule of thumb is to mix fakes with the real deal. That way you can have a stash of some favorites and make your arrangements bigger and more fabulous.
- Bedroom: keep it simple! A bedside floral should be small and delicate. Coordinate florals with another accessory close by. Here I added a book that played off the pink roses. Those are silk believe it or not, and I added water to the vase to make it feel more authentic. I even threw a few real green leaves in the water to trick the eye further, and sprinkled a bit of rose oil on the flowers themselves.
2. Family Room: A TV has such a huge blank effect on any space. Most designers avoid photos that include a large TV because – let’s be real (no pun intended here) – it’s not a beautiful feature. I designed this floating TV wall unit and had the cabinetry maker construct it out of walnut – a warm, natural finish. The soft edges of a simple citrus leaf branch or two will counterbalance the hardness of any technological necessity. These branches are silk, but I removed some of the leaves to make it look “real” and natural.
3. Front Entry: The exterior entry to this home was small but I wanted to make an impact. Without a water source close by, a simple rectangular pot with a fake boxwood topiary ball were just what was needed. The contrast of the dark planter with the light house pops. And the curb appeal was completed with modern house numbers and coordinating stainless light fixtures.
4. Back Patio: I live in Florida and we have beautiful plantings that surround our homes in these tropical environments. For that reason, the tables get neglected. I put some faux bamboo plants (outside!! gasp!!) to hide an unsightly drain pipe. And the flowers on the coffee table are cuttings from my client’s beautiful plantings.
5. Kitchen: While I love flowers in every room, in the kitchen I like to be a bit more creative. These are silk artichokes in a handmade bowl as a centerpiece. You can’t tell the difference between the actual vegetables on the background counter and fakes on the table!
Get the vibe:
Liebster Awards
I am so excited to be nominated for a Liebster Award. For those that don’t know, the Liebster awards are big in the blogging community, and awards are given to new and emerging bloggers each year. Thanks to Not Your Average Coffee Bean for nominating me. I am told that I have to list 11 facts about myself and answer 11 questions from the person that nominated me. Here goes!
11 Facts About Me:
I love Manhattan.
I love roller coasters.
I detest the color red.
I love classic, urban and retro equally.
I snack nightly on sweet & savory treats.
Sometimes I miss my babies so much while I’m at work it hurts my heart.
My husband makes me mad and happy at the exact same time.
I am a self confessed foodie.
I will only buy wine if it costs more than $25 because I somehow think it tastes better.
I wish I had a Victoria’s Secret body.
I love South Florida.
Okay and now for the questions:
- If you were on a deserted island and could only eat one food indefinitely, BUT you could have as much as you wanted of it…what would it be? French Fries
- If you had to choose either no cell phone or no social media for the rest of your life, which would you choose? No cell!
- If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be? Children suffering from anything.
- What did you want to be when you grew up? A lawyer.
- What is your main goal for your blog? Motivate, inspire and create.
- Are you fluent in any languages? Mommy-speak
- What is the thing you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? The balancing act of mom, business owner and wife.
- Okay, you’re in a burning building and you can only bring one thing out with you. What would it be? Photo album of my kids growing up.
- If you could have a conversation with anyone in the world, who would it be? Buddha.
- What is your favorite book and/or author? The Velveteen Rabbit:)
- And lastly…since you’re on Not Your Average Coffee Bean–ahem–Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts? This is the definitive question. Starbucks or die.
I nominate:
My questions for you are:
- What is your favorite childhood memory?
- How did you meet your significant other?
- What is you favorite space in your home?
- If you could only keep 3 possessions, what would they be?
- What is your most embarassing moment?
- Favorite piece of clothing?
- What was the last lie that you told?
- What question do you hate to answer?
- Favorite swear word?
- What is the strangest name you have ever heard of?
- What cheers you up?
5 Bedrooms 5 Styles
When designing a bedroom I always keep one thing in mind no matter the style: cozy! I love bedrooms that engulf me like a warm blanket. There should be a regular ahhh! uttered upon entry – or a gasp of delight – I’ll take either. Below are a few bedrooms I’ve designed and they are distinctly different, albeit all cozy.
Style 1: Upscale Chic.
Nothing says more upscale than a Cassini Chandelier ($10,000 later, thank you very much). Not to mention a custom headboard in Italian linen, Matouk bedding, an array of very high end throw pillows (many are one of a kind), Alabaster marble side lamps… need I go on? It was a fun room to design and I savored every minute of it! Even though it’s upscale, it’s still warm and welcoming. I don’t sacrifice style for comfort or visa versa.
Style 2: Natural Simplicity.
Ummm…. This is my master bedroom. Yes those are the lyrics to our wedding song (“Valentine’s Day” by Bruce Springsteen) on the wall. And there is endless amounts of linen and cotton wherever I can use it. Wood, glass, neutrals – all part of the simple details. A good mix of linear masculine lines and more organic, fluid shapes. It’s important to make the man and woman happy at once… the key to a good marriage.
Style 3: Modern Eclectic.
A room with fun textured wallpaper, modern walnut furniture, local artwork and a handwoven rug — simple yet interesting. My worldly clients loved this master bedroom because it was warm yet unique. The ceilings were high so I had a challenge in making it cozy. A medium hued outer palette mixed with bright, white accents were just what they needed. Of course, live greens always make a room instantly more natural. All that’s needed is jammies and a glass of Veuve.
Style 4: Contemporary Cabin
This is a guest room in the same home as Modern Eclectic (above). It was important to make it an interesting getaway for out of town visitors. A lovely woven textured wallpaper with lots of textured accents (fur, ceramic animal taxidermy, rustic wood furniture) and voila – an upscale cabin with a touch of wow-factor. I tend to keep a minimal eye toward my work but the textures in the blanket, pillows, lamps and drapery is enough to give it an edge that will spark conversation and leave people feeling at home.
Style 5: Colorful Country
Ahh! fuchsia, white crisp linen and a touch of Jonathan Adler – I have bedroom envy! I put a little earthiness in everything I do (hint: buddha) and this client had a coveted piece of artwork that they had to feature. Ceramic gourd lamps in a spa blue with pops of happiness everywhere. A heart pillow on the master bed is all a girl needs to infuse some love in their everyday world. Hearts are a secret passion.
1.Matisse Print // 2. Lamp Duo // 3. Buddha // 4. White Dresser //
5. Pink Hydrangea //6. Heart Pillow // 7. Tufted Bed // 8. Duvet Cover
Top 25 Interior Design Firms in South Florida Luxury Guide
Well, I’m honored to be chosen as one of the Top 25 Design Firms in the South Florida Luxury Guide! Not only was I chosen but my work was featured at the front of the feature. Happy Friday everyone! What a great birthday gift:)
Big Color Love: Citron
Nowadays, in color trends, the brighter the better. I remember in the 80s (when I was just a wee little lad…not!) neon colors were all the rage. I’m glad that we’re trending toward bright and beautiful! It’s fun and happy — just what life should be.
My son’s favorite colors are yellow and green. I did a fun horizontal “racing” stripe – it’s a bit of a modern slant on the nautical style. As you can see, my daughter LOVES to play and run through his room.
Photo Courtesy of Krista Watterworth LLC and Jessica Glynn, photographer
My client’s adorable furry pet is happy hanging with the citron roll pillow. It is just a tiny pop in an otherwise very coastal and spa-like living space.
Photo courtesy of Krista Watterworth LLC, Lesley Unruh Photography
Even a touch of citron among a sea of blues and crisp whites can make enough of a statement. I love that these stools have a citron welt and the pop of the Le Creuset cookware picks up on that tiny citron moment. It gives more life to the space.
Photo courtesy of Krista Watterworth LLC, Lesley Unruh Photography
Jonathan Adler is known as a color master – he has a love, a deep passion for bright and fabulous. At the Eau Resort on Palm Beach I snapped this citron moment in the outdoor bar. This is a cool citron tile on the bar base and I fell in love instantly.
If you are feeling inspired to dress or decorate with citron, here are some of my picks! Bring the BRIGHT back into your life!
1.Sofa // 2. Eau de Toilette // 3. Aviator Glasses // 4. Tribal Beads // 5. Slim Pant //
6. Howe Chair // 7. Floor Lamp // 8. Block Heeled Sandal // 9. Handmade Rug // 10. H2X Watch // 11. Sunny Tote //
12. Hummingbird Pillow // 13. Gola Sneaks // 14. Mosaic Tile //15. Trina Turk Pillow // 16. Embroidered Pant //
5 Chic Tables for Seder Dinner
In my home we celebrate Passover. Even though I was not raised in the Jewish faith, my husband was. I love so many things about Judaism – mostly the traditions and the sense of community that we have through our Temple. As a result, we’ve chosen to raise our children Jewish, and the Seder dinner (celebrated on the first night of Passover) is a big event. This year I’m hosting at my house… no stress! I usually take it all on myself but this year I’m going to divide and conquer. Step one: I’ll create a modern gourmet menu with a gluten/dairy free twist (my son is allergic and I eat pretty clean). Step two: enlist our Trinidadian nanny (and a true Auntie) for her culinary prowess on the larger dishes. Step Three: the Haggadah (service) will be led by my brother-in-law. Step Four: dress the table with uber class and style. Step Five: Have fun! To me and my husband it’s most important that the kids experience the beauty of the tradition, yummy eats, and lots of family fun.
Passover is a holiday that celebrates freedom. So yes, there are certain essential elements for setting a Seder table, but the design itself is purely a style choice – you are “free” to do as you wish.
Photo Courtesy of One Kings Lane
Style 1: Colorfully Ethnic. A blend of exotic and traditional symbols, hand painted plates in beautiful patterns, a mix of brass and silver finishes, earthy yet upscale and bright.
Style 2: Bright Sophistication. Turquoise linen, gold etched plates, embossed which china, and chic silverware. There is a book called the Haggadah that is usually read from during the meal. I love how this setting gives each guest their own copy with a beautiful cover.
Style 3: Country Love! Classic inspired Meissen blue floral patterned china, hand blown glass chargers, and mason jar candles. I love the rustic look of this table and the fresh way they use the traditional blue and white color palette. I also love the greenery that seems it was just picked from the backyard and artfully hung.
Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart
Style 4: Elegant Simplicity. I love that on each play there are some important Passover elements. And this can be created with your own simple glassware and china.
Style 5: Modern & Clean. Finally, I like the elegant simplicity of this table. Your seder table should reflect your personal style. Think outside of the box from the traditional and have fun with it!
It’s nice to have a Seder plate that describes what each item is so if you have guests that have not been to a Seder before, its a great way to label some of the traditional dishes that are served. My neighbors who are from the Netherlands and China are coming to our Seder and I want to make it a wonderful evening for them.
Keep a look out for Instagram picks of my Seder table this year:)
10 Best Coffee Table Books
Coffee table books are the perfect decorative accent for your living room coffee table. Books can say so much about your style and can be great conversation pieces. Here are a few of my go-to favorites…some of them are in my own home! I tend to love books about fashion, art, photography and rock stars. Some of the images on these pages is not for the faint at heart. But the power of photos is something everyone can understand and enjoy!
Design by Krista Watterworth-Alterman of Krista Watterworth Design StudioPalm Beach Chic
1. Palm Beach Chic
My good friend and one the most talented photographers I know, Jessica Glynn, just published a book of her work. She is know for capturing Palm Beach interiors reflecting the worldly travels, interests, and whimsies of its inhabitants. This tiny island hires world-class designers to create homes are unique, imaginative and sometimes eccentric. That is The Island we call Palm Beach!
2. Saul Bass
Saul Bass was an amazing graphic designer and he also won an Academy Award for his design of motion picture title sequences, film posters, and corporate logos. This book is filled with tons of iconic and colorful eye candy.
3. Chanel: The Vocabulary of Style
Coco Chanel was a style icon and she created a look that is still relevant today. She inspires me to look better, at all costs! Even if I don’t have time to brush my teeth in the morning, I still looked pulled together.
4. Dior Couture
Christian Dior set the stage for what a Parisian couture house should be. Dior is known for its exquisite line of Oscar worthy dresses. Patrick Demarchelier is a French fashion photographer whose photographed Dior for this book. He collaborated with Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar for twelve years and is the modern day photographer synonymous with high fashion.
5. Knoll: A Modernist Universe
Modern design begins with Knoll. Husband and wife team, Hans and Florence Knoll formed the company in 1938. They brought European modern design to the U.S., and nurtured the best homegrown talents in mid-century design in America. It is one of the most prestigious high-end furniture companies worldwide.
6. Tom Ford
Tom Ford took over Gucci and made it into one of the sexiest international fashion brands. Sales at Gucci increased tenfold under his tutelage. He built a dying accessory line into the luxury brand it is today.
7. Rock Seen
For 40 years, Bob Gruen’s was the go-to photographer of rock and roll icons. His first photos of Ike and Tina Turner became famous. He’s know for the early capturing of the CBGB/Max’s Kansas City scene to his current work photographing Green Day on tour. This book shows off Gruen’s favorite photos from his career with personal captions.
8. Avendon: Murals & Portraits
Richard Avedon’s portraits had a huge political and cultural impact during the 1960s when he was fresh to the scene, and still do today. He influenced photography for the decades that followed. Avedon captured the notorious characters of Andy Warhol’s Factory as well as haunting portraits of Vietnam War victims. He explored and revealed the history and spirit of these tumultuous years.
9. Annie Leibovitz: Women
The women in this book include the anonymous, chief justices, strippers, aerospace engineers, athletes, scientists, and the First Lady. It is an anthology of women which culminates in a great portrait of women of all races and religions, at the end of the century. Leibovitz, who in her years working for Rolling Stone, Vogue, and Vanity Fair magazines photographed hundreds of celebrities. (Amazon) She’s one of my favorites!
10. Vanity Fair 100 Years: From the Jazz Age to Our Age
If you want to see a century of art, power, crisis and culture then Vanity Fair 100 Years is just the book. Vanity Fair published it’s first magazine in 1913, and captured the Jazz Age, the Depression, the Reagan years, and now today’s Information Age. The modern era has unfolded on the pages of this magazine. Cool images throughout!
1.Palm Beach Chic // 2. Saul Bass // 3. Chanel // 4. Dior Couture // 5. Tom Ford //
6. Knoll // 7. Rock Seen // 8. Avendon // 9. Annie Leibovitz // 10. Vanity Fair //