Those White and Cream Cow Hide Rugs

<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr4HAZ0qrKI/AAAAAAAADRE/TySdLt0uzi8/s1600-h/suzanne-kasler3-350.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385749907894873250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr4HAZ0qrKI/AAAAAAAADRE/TySdLt0uzi8/s400/suzanne-kasler3-350.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 350px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;">Suzanne Kasler</span><br /><div align="center">I am really enamored with white/cream cow hide rugs. They seem to add another layer of richness and beauty to so many different style interiors. Here is a lovely room designed by the wonderful Suzanne Kasler.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385734742775493362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr35NrWc8vI/AAAAAAAADQ0/J8Ge1hvV1xc/s400/Cow+Southern+Accents.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 244px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Southern Accents</span><br />I especially love cow hide rugs over sisal or seagrass. In this room the rug seems to compliment all furnishings; notice the side table and Ghost chair.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385734731440426034" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr35NBH9jDI/AAAAAAAADQk/hoWqviqcOzM/s400/COw+Jan+showers+Material+girls.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 317px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Jan Showers</span><br /><div align="center">The combination of the natural floor covering and the sumptuousness of the cow hide really speaks to me. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385734736916902578" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr35NVhp8rI/AAAAAAAADQs/3gQJGIQBusI/s400/cow+sallywheat137_thumb1.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 301px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Cote de Texas</span></div><div align="center">I think they add a luxurious layer of texture and interest to room. Here is the wonderful bedroom of Sally Wheat, brought to us by Joni of <a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/">Cote de Texas</a>. You can read all about the rest of Sally's house <a href="http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2008/04/stalking-wheats.html">here</a>. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385734327547693394" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr341ggbiVI/AAAAAAAADQc/XtHqtWmmdJY/s400/cow-+Sally+wheat+cote+de+texas.png" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 265px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Cote de Texas</span><br />Sally renovated the many rooms including the living room. Here is the photo from the cover of Houston House and Home. You can read all about her more recent renovation <a href="http://www.cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2009/08/wheats-stalking-continues-part-ii.html">here</a>.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385734324135164738" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr341Ty0e0I/AAAAAAAADQU/IwWtVZXNIRU/s400/cow-jan+showers+material+girls.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Material Girls</span></div><div align="center">Here the fabulous Jan Showers layers the cow hide over white rug. It adds a layer of richness to this room. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385733172640166658" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr33ySJBMwI/AAAAAAAADP0/piSMVZVv6cE/s400/cow+vincent+wolf+veranda.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" /> <span style="font-size:78%;">Veranda</span></div><div align="center">Though not quite cream, I wanted to include Vincent Wolfe's gorgeous room. Here the cow hide is layered over a lighter rug and creates a luxurious effect. </div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385733166941901826" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr33x86clAI/AAAAAAAADPs/hjo2xWk8A0c/s400/cow+uktv.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 304px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" /> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">uktv</span></div><div align="center">=The cow hides seem to work in many different decors. Here it looks fabulous in this more masculine and modern room. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385733373146719170" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr3399FgY8I/AAAAAAAADQM/5iTfWkNGtwM/s400/cow-tbird.png" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">tbird<br /></span>Of course in more modern interiors, like this bedroom the cow hide softens the hard edges of the furniture and the space. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385749901466062530" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr4HAB36zsI/AAAAAAAADQ8/FlFnkGNG8LM/s400/Cow+Hide+Kim+Christie.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Kim Christie<br /></span>They also look beautiful laying on a hardwood floor - In this room I love the mix of the hard lines of the mirrors and coffee tables with the softness of linen sofa, throw and cow hide rug.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr339GnmUzI/AAAAAAAADP8/bXVF0dGqBNg/s1600-h/cow.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385733358525764402" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr339GnmUzI/AAAAAAAADP8/bXVF0dGqBNg/s400/cow.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 317px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">unknown</span><br />I find the cowhide rug a more interesting choice than the traditional needlepoint or aubusson rug. With the yellow chairs, it adds a layer of unexpected edginess to this room.<br />The darker floors also really make the rug stand out.<br /></div></div></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><br /></span></div><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385760194274019090" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sr4QXJkkRxI/AAAAAAAADRM/Dr5FV-ViW88/s400/Cow+-Decorpad.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span> <div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">decorpad</span></div><div align="center">Finally here is one my favorite rooms. I think the the cow hide rug looks so lovely in this very neutral interior. What do think? </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Click on <a href="http://hookedonhouses.net/2009/10/01/hooked-on-built-in-bookshelves/">Hooked on Houses </a>to see what everyone else is hooked on!</span></div></div>

Those White and Cream Cow Hide Rugs

Suzanne Kasler I am really enamored with white/cream cow hide rugs. They seem to add another layer of richness and beauty to so many differ...

Read more »

Classic Nautical Design by Suzanne Kasler

<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SfGmAKf651I/AAAAAAAACIY/nx-cbustlfY/s1600-h/images.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="TEXT-DECORATION: none"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,0);font-family:verdana;" class="Apple-style-span" ><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328077179763195426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SfEh9zOmfiI/AAAAAAAACIQ/zU7jeXqjgHc/s400/nautical+kaslert.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 381px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a> <div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Spring is on its way and I recently opened up my beach house for the summer. In my research on Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> I came across her work on the 2004 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">showhouse</span> for Southern Accents at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Watersound</span> Beach. But 2004 is so long ago you say - I want new and updated! Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> proves yet again, that classic style is timeless! </span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SfEh9zOmfiI/AAAAAAAACIQ/zU7jeXqjgHc/s1600-h/nautical+kaslert.jpg"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328222943219115890" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SfGmiWapZ3I/AAAAAAAACIg/jt0QHTvT1i0/s400/maritime+decor+southern+accents+suzanne+kasler.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 264px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a> <div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">So let's spend a moment to review her wonderful interpretation of the classic nautical theme for those of you who may have missed it.</span> </span></span><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span></div><span style="font-family:verdana;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327624903106639298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Se-Gn1YyNcI/AAAAAAAACH4/x47moiX7dn8/s400/Nautical+Room+Suzanne+Kasler+from+My+Home+ideas.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Notice Suzanne's use of horizontal hung wood paneling finished with marine like varnish. This detail along with the yacht like fittings and the bunks attached to the walls with boat cleats, really gives the feeling that you are in the cabin of a boat. Swing-arm lamps, installed high on the ceiling for reading in bed. I especially like the sailcloth curtains, hung with rivets and and tied with top stitched leather fittings. All these elements bring your eye up and down around the room.</span></div><div><div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327624899664272274" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Se-GnokD25I/AAAAAAAACHg/zJrPqyGp-uU/s400/Nautical+Room+Suzanne+Kasler+from+My+Home+ideas2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Antique badminton <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">racquets</span> mounted on the wall and a basket of vintage croquet items flank the cupboard, filled with assorted finds from the sea mixed with books and vases. The patchwork rug and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">seagrass</span> chairs all subtlety give you the feeling of the beach in a classic and sophisticated way.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328074682000426610" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SfEfsaVjRnI/AAAAAAAACIA/-dmWp2hxbWo/s400/Nautical+Room+Suzanne+Kasler.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 332px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Here is another room from the showhouse. Like the room above this room also uses the warm varnished wood, but on the ceiling. Notice the sea inspired lights and nautical ladder to sleeping loft above. White <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> couch is welted in navy blue.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327624898602958850" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Se-GnknBgAI/AAAAAAAACHo/Zm-EPKHngp8/s400/Nautical+Room+Suzanne+Kasler+3+Miss+Gracious+lviing.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 322px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">The propeller fans, lacquered red cabinets, and a porthole-like mirror, evoke the feeling of being on a ship; again in a very soothing, non kitschy way. And, again your eye moves up and down around the room as the details gently unfold themselves to you.</span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327624902943385986" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Se-Gn0x3KYI/AAAAAAAACHw/CjAhFUHqOx8/s400/Nautical+Room+Suzanne+Kasler+2+Miss+Gracious+lviing.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 324px; CURSOR: hand" /> </span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Suzanne brings in texture with the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">seagrass</span> ottoman, the rug, the woven shades and the baskets. She completes the look with a vintage pond yacht model and sailing prints. I also like the touch of the vintage style electric fan. I think the noise of that fan would really add to the experience of this classic room. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><br /></span><div></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Wanting a sophisticated and classic nautical style? Look no further!</span></div><div>To see more of this house visit <a href="http://www.suzannekasler.com/index.php/component/option,com_kaaportfolio/Itemid,13/projid,16/">Southern Accents Watersound Beach Showhouse</a>.</div></div></div></div></div></div>

Classic Nautical Design by Suzanne Kasler

Spring is on its way and I recently opened up my beach house for the summer. In my research on Suzanne Kasler I came across her work on th...

Read more »

Home and Garden hosts Suzanne Kasler

<div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><strong></strong><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056909427287442" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0ilvtpZI/AAAAAAAACGA/DQrwADyhnKI/s400/Suzanne_Kasler_room_.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></div><div align="center">What do you say about a store that is brimming with beautiful things?<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325237458837632066" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLQSae9EI/AAAAAAAACBA/N_FNJV5FqPg/s400/IMG_1333.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><p align="center">That has the best selection of Julie Neill Chandeliers, Aidan Gray accessories, and Hickory Chair upholstery and case goods? <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325242035659977458" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecPasZ9svI/AAAAAAAACCw/-Q10EUEFbDE/s400/IMG_1349.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />A store that is full of edgy accessories, new ideas in garden decor, and lovely Swedish and French reproductions.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238039067594658" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLyD8Fj6I/AAAAAAAACBw/2siQ3ihHihM/s400/IMG_1340.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />A shop that tops it off with a talented in house staff, an excellent relationship and appreciation of local interior designers and owners with great business sense and even better taste?<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325237457747271570" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLQOWhX5I/AAAAAAAACA4/l-ewexWbJ8E/s400/IMG_1332.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> You call it <em><strong>Home and Garden</strong></em> in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Covington</span>, LA. </p><p align="center">Just a short drive over the Pontchartrain bridge from New Orleans and you arrive at a mecca of fabulous home design all under one roof. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238044897049954" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLyZp7_WI/AAAAAAAACB4/-my8jFAvCbY/s400/IMG_1341.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline" /><strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong> is owned by: John, Kenny and Jennifer <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rabalais</span>. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238887839952658" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecMjd3L7xI/AAAAAAAACCI/HA9SpDQT2Pw/s400/IMG_1344.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />With their outstanding taste and excellent business acumen, they have a created a wonderful environment for designers and homeowners, alike, to create beautiful interiors.<strong><em><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325237468612038914" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLQ204kQI/AAAAAAAACBQ/pk9xejzLHlw/s400/IMG_1335.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />Home and Garden</em></strong> houses the largest display of Julie Neill lighting, outside of Julie's own shop, and the largest selection of Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler's</span> line for Hickory Chair in LA. Above notice the Julie Neill Juliette chandelier and the Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Choate</span> Dining Table.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325237464772512754" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLQoheC_I/AAAAAAAACBI/fMCTk3jmmto/s400/IMG_1334.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p align="center">With so many wonderful lines available here, and so much inventory to choose from, <strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong> creates some fabulous vignettes. Here is a wonderful dining room! Notice how the Julie Neill Ingrid Chandelier Pendants echo the lines of the dining chairs.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238037975534754" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLx_3uDKI/AAAAAAAACBo/DtNF7Xnl3QE/s400/IMG_1339.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p align="center">As promised in my previous post on New Orleans, meet Jeffrey <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">McNeely</span>, Director of Retail Development and the namesake of Julie Neill's new Jeffrey Chandelier above. Jeffrey works exclusively with designers to help them create the perfect look for their clients. Notice the Julie <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Neill</span> Madeleine chandelier to the left and the Artemis toward the middle bottom, and the Jeffrey on the right- Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> Prado Bookcase in the background.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325242051351965874" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecPbm3OcLI/AAAAAAAACDQ/bGOFPNRR1jU/s400/IMG_1352.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /><strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong> has literally hundreds of interesting accessories. Above is an impressive display of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">metalware</span> by Beatriz Ball.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238902006203810" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecMkSorxaI/AAAAAAAACCo/nRhXzcCfawA/s400/IMG_1348.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p align="center">Here is a summer beach <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">tablescape</span> complete with Aidan Gray candlesticks.</p><p align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238886961926322" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecMjal2ULI/AAAAAAAACCQ/1CqXTA4tIIw/s400/IMG_1345.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />Lovely <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> ottomans with incredible ribbon detailing and an Aidan Gray lamp.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238892781121442" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecMjwRQL6I/AAAAAAAACCY/vzivBjwPiWo/s400/IMG_1346.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p align="center">They also carry several <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> lines. I loved this sweet chair with embroidery. </p><p align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325238049924104002" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLysYev0I/AAAAAAAACCA/y61MG_7NVX0/s400/IMG_1342.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong> also has several vintage items and antiques - Here is an antique lantern, the patina on this piece was amazing. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325242039626352242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecPa7LnxnI/AAAAAAAACC4/iUhBfNHs4N4/s400/IMG_1353.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">Millie, Kenny, Suzanne, Gina</span></p><p align="center">So imagine my excitement when Kenny <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rabalais</span> invited Millie and I to come to <strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong> and meet famous designer, Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span>! For my readers who may not know, Suzanne has been named by "House Beautiful" magazine, one of the top 100 designers for 2005 and one of the top 125 designers for 2004; "House & Garden" named her one of 50 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tastemakers</span> in March of 2006; and Suzanne was the 2003 Southeastern Designer of the Year!</p><p align="left"><span style="font-size:78%;">.</span></p><p align="center">Since her launch of her line for Hickory Chair last year, Suzanne has been visiting premier retail locations and sharing her visions of design. <em><strong>Home and Garden</strong></em> hosted a luncheon in Suzanne's honor and invited local designers meet her and learn more about her design inspiration and philosophy.</p><p align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325649372045319282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeiB4ysLHHI/AAAAAAAACDY/Mh9VjXylRW4/s400/Suzanne_Kasler_room.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" />Probably the most interesting part of meeting Suzanne was learning about many of the pieces in her line and what inspired her to have them recreated by Hickory Chair. I learned that many of her pieces were recreated from antiques she had personally collected over many years, or had found for her elite clientele. She spent over a year and half working closely with the craftsmen at Hickory Chair to create what she believed were beautiful pieces that would fit in with both modern and traditional styles. Let's have a look:<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326101468545335442" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeodERZUwJI/AAAAAAAACG0/cROBx_1G72M/s400/Suzanne_Kasler_room_.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></p><p>The Frederica Bench is a beautifully proportioned, delicate, hand-carved reproduction of an antique French bench from Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler's</span> home. Though beautiful, the original, like most antiques, was bit too narrow and uncomfortable. She deepened the seat and softened the cushioning and now, its the perfect marriage of beauty and comfort. She couldn't find a wide enough stripe for the bench, so she used solid fabric cut to width to create the wonderful striped effect. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_16" class="blsp-spelling-error">Anasthasia</span> bench, Antoinette side table and Alexandra chair also pictured. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326102089625954754" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeodobGe6cI/AAAAAAAACG8/fxa5xuuwr3A/s400/1505_18RM.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Suzanne has known the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_17" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rabalais</span> family for many years and helped decorate John's home in Rosemary Beach, Florida. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_18" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> Nanette chair was actually inspired by a chair Suzanne found for John. She fell love the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_19" class="blsp-spelling-error">oversized</span> shape and scale and convinced him it was perfect for his home. Also pictured are the Auburn ottoman and Ainsley chairs.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0itdUrcI/AAAAAAAACF4/UEPGR2lV41Q/s1600-h/Suzanne_Kasler_room_.desk.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056911497637314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0itdUrcI/AAAAAAAACF4/UEPGR2lV41Q/s400/Suzanne_Kasler_room_.desk.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>The original Campaign Desk, actually sits in Suzanne's home office. It was a bit too narrow and also quite warped, as antiques tend to be over years of use. The Hickory Chair Campaign desk has a wider proportion for a laptop and of course no warping. The metal work on the original was painstakingly recreated. Suzanne commented that she was thinking of switching out her original desk with the new one, simply because it looked identical and lived much better! <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056144222771602" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Senz2DIvWZI/AAAAAAAACFA/dii0cXKaEuA/s400/Suzanne+Kasler+LR+NUST+DO.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 289px; CURSOR: hand" /> One of Suzanne's favorite pieces in the line is her <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_20" class="blsp-spelling-error">Anasthasia</span> bench, a Russian antique that she found in Paris. The original, above, sits in Suzanne's living room. She said she missed the bench, as Hickory Chair had several of her pieces for months and months, while they meticulously recreated them down to the most minute detail.<br /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325237473173165650" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecLRH0V1lI/AAAAAAAACBY/s_rL1jWqbIs/s400/IMG_1336.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />And here they are recreated at <em><strong>Home and Garden</strong></em>. I love Suzanne's signature stripe upholstery. Also shown is Suzanne's new Emory skirted sofa. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056542295918386" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0NOExhzI/AAAAAAAACFo/XdQU9rTKP8M/s400/Suzanne+LR+small+otttoman.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />Here are the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_21" class="blsp-spelling-error">Anasthasia</span> benches upholstered in plain linen.<br /><br /><br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325649376888981730" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeiB5Eu_iOI/AAAAAAAACDo/7ltbvWVebKQ/s400/5-spotlight-emorychair-1008-xlg-24074860.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 313px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />Comfort is very important to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_22" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span>. All her upholstered pieces were designed with comfort in mind. Here is the Emory chair.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325242047930024178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SecPbaHXwPI/AAAAAAAACDI/pB1Fy8WmXsc/s400/IMG_1337.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 449px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 326px; CURSOR: hand" />But when we think comfort we so often think unattractive; not so with this line. Suzanne is famous for her dressmaker like details. Here is the Emory chair at <strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong>. Notice the flange welting and pleated skirting.<br /><br />She is inspired, she says, by the French antiques and French modern pieces she collects. This inspiration is then personalized by the addition of signature details like grosgrain ribbon trim and dressmaker skirts (blending dressmaker details into upholstery is a favorite <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_23" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> technique). <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325649376121633346" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeiB5B4CukI/AAAAAAAACDg/APheC5UVDlg/s400/2-spotlight-nanettechair-1008-xlg-4912691.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 313px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />The result is refreshing, a little witty, and versatile enough to work in environments that range from informal to elegant; evident again in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_24" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> Nanette chair<br /><br />Other items recreated by Hickory Chair from Suzanne's home include:<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325650004133351970" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/SeiCdlZtEiI/AAAAAAAACEQ/Ar5Dvn-deL8/s400/8-spotlight-choatediningtable-1008-xlg-3286766.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 313px; CURSOR: hand" /><br /><br />The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" class="blsp-spelling-error">Choate</span> Dining Table which was inspired by Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_26" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler's</span> antique Regency table.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326115241306264098" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Seopl87akiI/AAAAAAAACHM/t0oev1UTEhQ/s400/pied.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The Piedmont table, a great wooden, farm table inspired by the original which sits in Suzanne's kitchen. Also pictured is the new <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carlisle</span> Credenza, which Suzanne explained is better because the doors are not warped like her original. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056138726525202" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Senz1uqVSRI/AAAAAAAACEg/zB7rC-ZeCqg/s400/Suzanne+Chastain+chair.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" />And the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_28" class="blsp-spelling-error">Chastain</span> Chair, which comes <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_29" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> or with bare legs, which was inspired by a wicker chair <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_30" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_31" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span> for her office.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0NGYgnuI/AAAAAAAACFg/VTGbbDAUlew/s1600-h/Suzanne+Kasler_Rug+Jaguar.jpg"></a>She also has a wonderful line of lighting made by Visual Comfort. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056534270485634" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0MwLXJII/AAAAAAAACFY/EDKRGosm8Xw/s400/Suzanne+Kasler_lamp_2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />This chandelier is a copy of the one that hangs over her kitchen table.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056905921039202" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0iYrwi2I/AAAAAAAACFw/ZqVPMhQaSZQ/s400/Suzanne+THorton+lamp.png" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 144px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 330px; CURSOR: hand" /><br /><br />Here is her brand new Thornton lamp, just released at market. I love this!! It is modern and classic at the same time.<br />Her lights are available at <a href="http://www.circalighting.com/designer_products.aspx?did=28&cid=8">Circa Lighting</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br />She also has the Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_32" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> rug line available from <a href="http://www.safavieh.com/collectionpage.php?item=Suzanne%20Kasler"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_33" class="blsp-spelling-error">Safavieh</span>.</a> A wonderful collection of 10 to 12 hand-knotted wool or combination wool/silk rugs.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056531797516498" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0Mm9woNI/AAAAAAAACFI/m4mNafgUx8g/s400/Suzanne+Kasler+LR.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" />For more information about Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_34" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span> see this wonderful post by <a href="http://freshpalette.blogspot.com/2007/09/another-inspirational-suzanne-kasler.html">Things That Inspire</a> and this interesting and very comprehensive post by <a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2008/05/cote-de-texas-8.html">Cote <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_35" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span> Texas</a>. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326056141251555602" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Senz14EWMRI/AAAAAAAACEo/0ntOp1oaDqk/s400/Suzanne+Book.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 210px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 254px; CURSOR: hand" /><br />Suzanne mentioned that as a designer she was so clear on what she wanted to create, but she did not know what to call her "signature style". Her publisher mentioned they were very inspired by her interiors and hence came the name for her new book: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Suzanne-Kasler-Inspired-Interiors/dp/0847832201/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1237824681&sr=1-4">"Inspired Interiors"</a> , which will be released in October 2009. I am sure it is going to be fabulous and chock full of wonderful information. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326057089470343762" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/Sen0tEdUqlI/AAAAAAAACGg/7EmVV3Bb2yU/s400/suzanne-kasler3-350.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 350px; CURSOR: hand" /><br /><div align="center">I had an unforgettable time in New Orleans, meeting Suzanne <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_36" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kasler</span>, and of course the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_37" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rabalais</span> family, and their exceedingly talented staff. If you get to New Orleans, do not miss visiting <strong><em>Home and Garden</em></strong>. You will be thrilled and astounded, as I was. Oh, if only I could have stayed longer... </div></div>

Home and Garden hosts Suzanne Kasler

What do you say about a store that is brimming with beautiful things? That has the best selection of Julie Neill Chandeliers, Aidan Gray acc...

Read more »