Hotel Design: Waldor Astoria Chicago

Stepping inside a well designed hotel is always thrilling because it might not be the aesthetic you choose to live by, but it's not often that you aren't impressed. That's the feeling I had when I entered the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago {here} this past weekend for a quick trip to the spa with dear friends. What a treat. It's a very sleek and streamlined look with upscale appeal.

 

Go there.

 

When you pull in the circular drive you begin to feel transported away from all your worries and obligations...

 

This magnificent light fixture greets you when you enter.

 

The spa relaxation room, which I could have stayed in all day. These chairs were so comfortable and perfect to lounge in {while eating an assortment of delicious nuts and flavored water}  

 

Don't you love a long, wide hallway in a spa locker room...more like lady's wing. You know you hit the spa jack pot when you see this.

 

I took a dip in this and what they don't show you is the incredible view you have.

 



Moving around accessories...

I'm constantly moving around accessories in my home, it's just what I do. I feel like it keeps things fresh and interesting....here is the latest set up on my kitchen table. I'm kind of loving it.

 

The hydrangeas are from my backyard and I love how they look pretty next to the HB cover.



If I could design an Inn....

...I would love it to look like this! A darling place to stay on the Island of Nantucket, 76 Main {here} more then welcomes you with loads of color and style. Designed by Rachel Reider, this darling spot is vibrant and has a young fresh feel to it. I adore the use of pattern and texture. Lots to love here. I'm a tiny bit obsessed actually....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Weekly Snapshots

A look at my where abouts and wonders of the last week. 

 

This gate at my parent's house in Arizona. I love the tuscon style out west - it's vastly different from the North East. We just got back and it was so relaxing to spend time there.

How fabulous is this fabric? Not what you would expect when you see the wood work on this chair. The shape to the back of it is even more fabulous then the fabric, how about that!

Custom ottoman and rug that were recently installed at a clients home...excited to show you more soon.

 

My little sweet potato :)

Monday Inspiration

Feast your eyes on the lounge of the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona. All elements of the architecture and design draw you in.

Talk about getting the travel itch!

  



Weekend Highlights

We are back from Florida and a break from routine was just what we needed. Palm Beach was our destination and what a lovely place with {luckily} gorgeous weather. Since it was our first time to that area, we had fun exploring and getting the lay of the land.

One of my favorite nights we went to a fabulous restaurant, Buccan. Great atmosphere, delicious food and of course, stylish interiors. And the highlight was my meal - a hot dog panini. Yes you heard me right.  {picture below will make your mouth water}

Bar/lounge area - comfortable, colorful and styled with beautiful accents.

Communal Table

Bar

Hot Dog Panini - topped with sauerkraut, gruyere cheese, mustard aioli and caramelized onions. Ridiculous.

We also stummbled across a Roberta Roller Rabbit store, which sort of made me pee my pants with excitement. I regularly browse the website, but hadn't anticipated a hands on shopping experience, so I was overwhelmed to say the least. Darling tunics, bright bedding and fun accessories...it was all too much to handle and made me want to redecorate my house, wardrobe and and embrace color more then ever.

I left empty handed, but almost purchased this whimsical dress...and still might have to since it was so light weight and comfy.

Monday Inspiration

Whenever I travel, I'm reminded of how restaurant design can be such a source of inspiration. Chicago has some phenomenal places to dine, here are a few to take note of.

 Perennial Virant



Hubbard Inn

Gemini Bistro

Chicago Bound

I'm off to a gem of a city this weekend, Chicago. I will be spending time with some of my favorite people I cherish most. I can't wait!

I plan to drag them around to a few shops, one in particular, Jayson Home and Garden. I've only been once and it was like an out of body experience...it really is a unique store with incredible variety and displays.

Let's preview a few products they have now.

Dash Stool

Sometimes you just know you are meant to have something, that's how I feel with this stool. Maybe it can be my souvenir for the weekend...

Greenwich Chair

Julien Chair

Brass Berkshire Horn Cups

I would love to put my make up brushes in these cups.

Tree of Life

Moby Lamp

Antique Daybed

Antique Bird Print

Vintage Ikat Throws