VIOLET REVISITED

I wish I had a picture of my bedroom as a child.  It was a Mario Buatta-esque full canopy bed in purple chintz with matching chaise, framed by purple painted walls.  Denise even had a matching dress made for my favorite doll which sat on my perfectly purple, mini french desk chair.  It was a bedroom fit for a little princess and I was obsessed with it.  As an adult I never thought of incorporating this color into our work until recently.  Inspired by a few new clients we started envisioning a way to create sophisticated, feminine flair that wasn't pink.  Now we have two beautiful, chic rooms in this palette that we cannot wait to share.  Paired with gray or a lime green, it is an absolutely beautiful color.   Here are a few ways to incorporate this color in a minimal, subtle way..

Paint your walls!

This bathroom in one of Aerin Lauder's homes is absolutely beautiful.  The lavender walls are almost white - the paint is muted down to the perfect shade.    Paired with dull brass fixtures and a classic venetian mirror, this bath is simply elegant.  Paint is easy and inexpensive to change, especially in a smaller space.  This is the perfect, non comital way to add a pop of color in your home. 

On your windows!

How fun is the above dining room?   The lavender panels are an amazing accent paired with traditional gracie wallpaper.  Using a color like purple on your windows adds a punch of unexpected color.

Accessorize!

Lacquered boxes or porcelain is an easy way to add an on trend color to any room in your home.  Spice up your bedside or living room end tables with a pop of purple.  

As an accent fabric!

We love an ikat... especially a colorful one.  If you don't see yourself fully upholstering a chair in a colorful fabric, throw pillows are an easy way to add color.  The above living room by Ashely Whitaker is a great example of such.

xo

Missy

A FRESH, SPRING BEDROOM

With the Spring time weather finally here we wanted to let our readers know how we refresh our bedroom's for the season.  A bedroom should be a place that always makes you feel peaceful, comfortable and happy.  In those terms I would say that Spring is the season that most reflects the feeling of a bedroom.  With beautiful flowers in blooms, sunny long days and gorgeous weather it is the perfect time to make your bedroom feel inviting and warm again after a cold winter.  A few easy ways we perk up our bedroom's for Spring are:

1.  Clean, simple, but colorful bedding 

Your bedding should be everything.  It should be a reflection of your personality whether it be bold, calm, fun.  Whatever the case may be, at the start of Spring you should change it out for something new, something light and something pretty.  I am a huge fan of scalloped anything and bedding is the perfect way to showcase this detail.  The above set is expensive, but if you don't have a tremendous budget and just change out your pillow shams it still makes a huge difference.  Opt for a new set of standard and Euro shams.  For spring always choose white with a border in your favorite color.  Matouk, Frette & Leontine are obvious favorites, but you can browse Etsy for more affordable options.  Monogram them if you feel daring (we always do).  Paired with a less expensive pottery barn, organic white duvet cover (here) it is the perfect update for your bed.

2.  A light weight down duvet & throw

Speaking of duvets - your heavy, winter one should be a goner by now.  We purchase very expensive, quality comforters for clients and master bedrooms, but if your keeping it within a certain budget we love the ikea selection.  They have the perfect, super light weight comforter that we love for a guest room.  Also, for lounging you need the perfect light weight throw for the edge of your bed or draped over a chaise.  Leesa has a gorgeous one (pictured above).  The fabric is so soft and the neutral color goes with everything.  It also has one of my favorite details - stripes!  It is absolutely perfect for Spring.  Also, check out their amazingly comfortable lightweight mattresses.

3.  New bedside table accessories

Your winter months of colds are hopefully finally over so your monogrammed tissue holder and drawer full of cough drops should be put away for next year.  Opt for fun bamboo brass or silver frames and a new small vase filled with tulips.   Who doesn't want to wake up to fresh flowers?  Start your day with something that makes you happy.  Flowers always do it for me.  The above are both Aerin (of course).

4.  Monogrammed PJs

Lastly, I start every spring with a new pair of PJs.  Eberjay has the most comfortable pair and they are totally worth the money.   The color selection this year is perfect for Springtime and I always get them monogrammed at a local shop (because I clearly have a problem haha).

Four simple, easy ways to make your bedroom feel refreshed!
I hope you are enjoying this amazing, sunny day.

xoxo

missy

FRIDAY'S FAVORITES | KLISMOS CRAZY

The classic, Greek klismos chair has a very distinctive shape.  With its tapered legs and curved back there is no mistaking it.  Every couple of years it will make a revival and we are currently re-coveting this style.  We love them used as dining chairs around a traditional English table or in a larger scale, as an accent chair in a living room.   It adds a unique vibe.

Here are a few of our favorites.  We are using the top right chair in a blue linen for a kitchen.   They are so fun when upholstered in a colorful fabric or a mini print.  All to the trade only sources so contact us if you like any of the above.  

Have a great weekend!

xxx

M

CLIENT INSPIRATION | GUEST BATH DETAILS

For a meeting next week we have been trying to find inspiration for a more formal guest bath.  The vibe is a classic, traditional, yet chic look.  Our usual wallpaper look has been replaced with decorative, painted, maybe lacquered molding.  We are thinking about picture molding, maybe french inspired for the main guest bath on the first floor.  The formality and beauty of it will meld perfectly with the ornate limestone entry.  To pull this off you really need to work with a master carpenter.  Molding this detailed will look cheap and cheesy unless done perfectly.  The color is TBD, but I love the look of the above blues and grey.  Dove white is classic and warm, but paired with a Sherle Wagner sink (similar to the second photo above, but more ornate) we are thinking that a bold color pop is needed.  

For the second guest bath on the first floor we are also going with molding rather than wallpaper, but a more modern version.  The floor to ceiling square wainscoting above is perfect.  I really love the look of this second bathroom.  Each square has a little more detail and the added framework around the window and mirror is gorgeous.  Paired with the antique silver accents it is a timeless, but modern look.

Follow us on instagram at missy_minicucci & therinfretgroup for updated pictures of each projects.  The above will be hash tagged #kingspointproject and we will post photo's of each bathroom and their progress in the next few weeks.

xx

m&d

FRIDAY'S FAVORITES | LUCK OF THE IRISH

Happy St. Patrick's Day!  This holiday has always made me happy because it was a reminder of Spring being right around the corner.  Flowers blooming, longer days, sunshine and more time outside!  It's been a rough winter with a newborn so this year I am counting down the days until I can take long walks with her.   Above are some beautiful, inspirational St. Patty's Day inspired photo's which made me smile.   Below, are our Friday's Favorites featuring some fun green items.  Happy Friday!! It's 5:00 somewhere,  go have a drink :) 

xo

m

1.  Schumacher Panel
2. Parker Thatch Stationary
3.  Oomph Lantern
4.  Stubbs & Wooton Camo Slippers
5. MH Linens Monogrammed Napkins

FRIDAY'S FAVORITES | LEOPARD PRINT FABRICS

If you follow us you know we have a love, almost an obsession with animal print.  We incorporate leopard, tiger, antelope or any other animal print in every project, in almost every rooms!  In our eyes it is basically a neutral.  This Friday's Favorites is all about leopard print.  Above are fun, colorful leopard fabrics.  We chose to showcase blue because it is the most versatile of the color options, but they also come in pinks, greens, yellows, grey, basically any color your heart desires.  All fabric sources are to the trade only so if there are any that you love contact us!

Have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo

m

1. Schumacher

2. Clarence House

3. Brunschwig & Fils

4.  Thibaut

5. Brunschwig & Fils

6. Cowtan & Tout

SYMMETRICALLY CHALLENGED

Often times when we think of the word symmetry we automatically assume "the same".   People can mistake "sameness" for boring.  However, when speaking in terms of design if a room is not symmetrical it can seems off balance.  When Denise & I walk into a space our eye automatically fixates on anything that is throwing off our perspective.  We are drawn to it, obsessing over it and we immediately have to fix it.  Whether invited to or not - haha!  I thought this was a unique obsession, something inherited from my similarity symmetrically obsessed mother.  However, we realized that we were in good company a few years ago when attending an event with the esteemed Mario Buatta.  While accepting an award he chastised the group for not handing him two statues.  He said he couldn't possibly move forward with his speech only holding one award is his hands because it wasn't symmetrical!  It would drive him crazy!  This is when I realized our obsession wasn't nutty, it was innate!  Here are a few tips to help the symmetrically challenged.

Exterior Perfection

Curb appeal is everything.  What people see when they pull up to your house is what will carry through their visit.  Who wouldn't want to have the above front door?  The evenly spaced, manicured boxwoods, the amazing double pulls on a door with beautiful, intricate millwork?  Even the stripes are evenly spaced.   By simply placing two planters with manicured boxwoods on either side of your front door you will immediately add charm and character to your home. 

In Your Backyard

 I am in awe of this boxwood wonderland.  The lattice work perfectly frames both the garden and the home and there are even an even number of dormers!  Yes, I have OCD.  It is perfection.  

An Even Entry 

An entry should be something that makes you happy as soon as you walk into your home.  This picture is a perfect example of how symmetry can be anything but boring.  It can be colorful and pattern filled, but still pleasing to the eye.  This wallpaper is a chaotic, but calming feature when paired with perfectly balanced accessories.  

Perfect Proportion 

This living room by Mark Sikes shows that balance in a room does not have to mean using the same pieces of furniture, obviously.  In the above he pairs a french upholstered chair with a Billy Baldwin Esq slipper chair.   The proportions of both chairs are similar so they work perfectly together.  He also balances wall space on either side of the fireplace.  A door on the left is paired with a chinoiserie bookcase on the right.  The difference in height is made even by adding ginger jars and artwork.

If symmetry isn't your thing we are obviously obsessed and happy to help...  

Whether you ask us to or not {wink wink}

xoxo

m&d

FRIDAY'S FAVORITES | A RETURN TO MAXIMALISM

There have been a slew of articles recently discussing the resurgence of Maximalism.  Designers like Alex Papachristidis, Mary McDonald and Miles Redd are perfect examples of this.  They are bringing back the Mario Buatta "more is more" mentality with regards to color, prints and accessorizing!!  Alex Papachristidis is known for his use of silk, deep purple color palette and his layering.  Mary McDonald for her painted floors, her use of brass and her love of anything chinoiserie & french (our style sister).  Miles Redd and his vibrant color choices - no one does it like him!

Denise & I are thrilled because clearly we never bought into the minimalist movement.  We agree that there needs to be a certain amount of restraint in design, but the restoration hardware, greige vibe of the last few years always had us yawning!!  Where is the originality?  Where is the personality? Where is the WALLPAPER?! haha... But seriously, in our eyes, it lacked imagination.  The antique movement is back and we are thrilled that the style cycle is returning to old school luxury!

We have discussed our Kings Point project in the past and this is where our love of maximalism will shine.  Decorative moldings, lacquered walls, color!!  In our Friday Favorites this week we take a look at recent lux finds for this project.  Enjoy their beauty and have a great weekend!

xo 

M & D

1.  Mary McDonald
2.  Alex Papachristidis
3. Miles Redd

FRIDAY'S FAVORITES | ONE KINGS LANE

I have a habit of late night shopping now that I'm sporadically up feeding Georgia.  Lately, a frequent favorite has been One Kings Lane.  As a designer I have access to the best sources at terrific prices, but sometimes I want immediate satisfaction.   One Kings Lane is the perfect spot for that.  They will often times have great linens, already made pillows and terrific artwork.  Above are some recent finds.

1.  Linens | Matouk with a classic knot like pattern.  

2.  Etagere | A detailed piece with beautiful fretwork.  

3.  Pillows | A classic pattern in a pop of color.

4. Lamps | Statement pagoda's for a dining room to add some fun on a more traditional buffet.  

5.  Artwork | A beautiful view of the Louvre through the beautifully lined trees.

Sidenote... I just purchased this piece for our dining room

6.  Mirror | A small starburst who's dimensions are perfect for over your master bed.

HUMOR IN DESIGN

It's a gloomy, 18 degrees out, we have a million deadlines and my little munchkin is sick.  To say I am stressed out is an understatement.  However, there was a glimpse of something today that definitely brought a smile to my face.  We are re-vamping our website and while looking through old client photo's this afternoon I found the first photo... the pineapple photo.  Denise and I create each job with the motto "don't take yourself too seriously".  Every home is personal and we always try to add humor where you least expect it.  In a New Canaan, CT job these adorable, preppy chic pineapple lamps perfectly perched on their lucite pedestal did the trick.   Whether it be through accessories, unexpected fabric choices, artwork or just a certain color on the wall... humor is a simple way to add personality to any room.  Below it are some other design moments that definitely make me happy.  I hope they do the same for you. 

1.  Our room in a New Canaan, CT job

2.  Sarah Bartholemew | Miles Redd

3.  Mark Sikes

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE GALA

We are so proud to participate in the amazing organization, The Ronald McDonald House on Long Island.  Last year we participated in an event where designers were chosen to created a fun vignette that was actioned off for the charity.  This year they chose another set of designers to design table scapes for the same purpose- each to be auctioned off to raise money for the terrific cause.   Above is our inspiration for our table.  We wanted it to be fresh and fun, with pretty pieces that people would want to purchase.  We love the combination of blue and green together it is classic and beautiful.  A big thank you to Cowtan & Tout for the beautiful napkins, Elite Tent & Party Rental for the lucite chairs & Scarsella Floral's for the gorgeous arrangements.

If you don't know about the Ronald McDonald House here is a little background.  The house provides  a "home away from home" for all family members of children that are sick and going through treatment.   They are able to stay at the house, free of charge, for as long as they need.  The rooms were all decorated by designers over the years to create a happy, stress free environment for these families who are going through so much.  Every year we are humbled by the people we meet at this organization who have dedicated their lives to making other peoples lives a little easier.

GALLERY SPOTLIGHT | GREGG IRBY

We've been sourcing a lot of modern art for our younger, NYC clients as well as our more transitional clients on LI and in CT.  Although there are a slew of galleries in Manhattan, my eye keeps going back to the artists on Gregg Irby Gallery in Atlanta.  He features favorites like Michelle Aramas, but always keeps it new and fresh with up and comings.  I love the above for their whimsy and color.  The first reminds me of a cool, italian market.  The second of a rainy day in sag harbor and the third's color just spoke to me.  So fresh and happy!  Check out their website for amazing art work.

1. Emyo

2. Ritva Porter

3. Kathy Court

HAMPTON'S SUMMER SHOWHOUSE

Memorial Day is always our favorite time of year...  Its the start of the season that we love.  Sun, Southampton, the ocean, family & outdoor living.  We are so excited to announce that Frontage has chosen The Rinfret Group to represent them in this years Southampton Designer Showhouse.  They want us to create our "Preppy Chic" look with all of their product.  We are so excited to get started.   Above it a starting point of inspiration.  We hope y'all come visit our space!!

xo

A MODERN MIX

Happy New Year! 

We are so excited to start work on a slew of projects in the new year, all of which are completely unique with each clients aesthetic being totally different.  

The first project we are working on is a modern, loft style apartment in Gramercy Park for a young couple.  We love clean lines mixed with tradition for this apartment with a few pops of color and/or print.  Above is some of our inspiration so far.

1.  Robert Brown ID

2. Carrier & Company

3. Allen Kirsch & Associates

4. Amy Berry Design

PARISH HADLEY | TREE OF LIFE

What an amazing event last night for the new Parish Hadley book hosted at the gorgeous, new Stark showroom on Long Island.    Dee & I had the best time chatting with our friends and seeing some of our favorite designers.  I have known some of the designers honored in this book for years and had no idea they started their careers working for the legend, Parish Hadley.  There were a few designers from the book on hand to chat and sign their pages, which are all lovely.  The party was catered by my amazing sister, Amanda with Elegant Affairs.  The food was beyond delicious and the company was just as amazing.

If you are unfamiliar with Parish Hadley, he is considered the Kennedy of the interior design world.  An icon of our time, much like Mario Buatta.   Monday I will post some of my favorite moments from this book which features greats like James Andrew, Brian McCarthy, Michael Whaley, Thom Filicia... many great designers have inspiring rooms showcased in this beautiful book.

FASHION WEEK VS. INTERIORS

Like most interior designers I am obsessed with fashion.  One mimics the other and like my interior aesthetic my fashion sense tends to be classic, but feminine with a sometimes architectural,  often times fun element.  I stalked NY & London's fashion week's runways hourly over the last two weeks.  The detail was exquisite and inspirational.  Above are my favorite looks paired with unbelievable interiors, both of which are incredible and so perfectly proportioned.

1.  Carolina Herrera | David Kaihoi

2. Michael Kors | Designer Unknown (Aerin Lauder's Apnt)

3. Ralph Lauren | Mark D. Sikes

4. Oscar de la Renta | Miles Redd