Personal Archaeology: John Dickinson

ar·che·ol·o·gy (är'kē-ŏl'ə-jē)n.The systematic study of past human life and culture by the recovery and examination of remaining material evidence, such as graves, buildings, tools, and pottery.

.......and "vintage" magazine articles....

....

 We have been sorting through old papers with my Mom. .....just doing our part as a family to stave off becoming another victim of the Hoarders TV show. It is tough to stay ahead of the curve sometimes when one loves to collect.

Mom came across a keeper in the piles of paper that seem to reproduce like bunnies, especially when the mail arrives everyday with another pile of catalogs and pre-approved credit card offers. An article she had torn out of the June 1967 issue of House and Garden (oh how i miss thee!) features "a young San Franciscan designer of furniture and interiors and an accomplished draftsman" who " lives with his three cats in an old firehouse".....that would be the iconic John Dickinson.

 Many of you are quite familiar with John Dickinson and his famous furniture designs, some of which you can see on Diane Dorrans Saeks' The Style Saloniste blog about Dickinson HERE.  It is a wonderful article about Diane Dorrans Saeks friendship with Mr. Dickinson, well worth a visit! (BTW, if you have not visited The Style Saloniste, there is no other blog I have read that has more beautifully informative articles on the iconic persons in the world of design! A "must read!")

Some of you might have become familiar after seeing the three legged table designed by John Dickinson being purchased at the San Francisco Fall Antique Show by Million Dollar Decorator, Jeffrey Alan Marks. 

 Looking back at this article, it is plain to see that John Dickinson was ahead of his time, truly an original thinker. His ideas have become classics....white slipcovers, a collection ironstone platters as wall decor, antique mixed with modern, important pieces mixed with the everyday....and always his own designs adding character. It is hard to think that these ideas are original to us now because they have been used so much since then, but if you think the average person would never have thought to break up a matching set of furniture in the 60's (aside from the emerging designers of the era) his ideas were progressive.

I am still waiting for a book about John Dickinson to come out. Diane Dorrans Saeks would be the perfect author.

In the mean time, I will be collecting more articles I see about him and putting them in a safe place. Hoarding them you might say. 

You never know what future archaeologists might dig up when we are all long gone. John Dickinson would be a a person well worth discovering all over again.

Have a great weekend!

From One Happy Place to Another: San Francisco Magazine's Top 5 Design Blogs

I just returned from a five day Disneyland Adventure celebrating my eldest's graduation, with my youngest in tow. It was definitely the Happiest of places for the last few days....Then I returned home to find out THIS very happy news!

Diane Dorrans Saeks, author of some of our favorite design books (Michael Smith Elements of Style, Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, Paris Style and Hollywood Style to name but a few), and contributing interior design editor for San Francisco Magazine included katiedid in her TOP 5 local Design Blogs! Diane has been a kind and generous supporter of katiedid, and for blogs in general. I am very honored to be included in this brilliant group. I am so happy to know talented designers and bloggers, Scot and Grant and am looking forward to meeting Kendra and Kit as soon as possible!

Please do visit all of the Top 5...and do not miss Diane Dorrans Saeks fabulous blog, The Style Saloniste. It is a MUST READ! Diane chronicles her adventures in travel, design, and style from all over the globe. She profiles top designers and style mavens, artists and architects all with enthusiastic aplomb.

Great thanks to you Diane! Congratulations to all of the "listers" and huge appreciation to all of the katiedid readers.

My day is made.

The Art of the Table: Preview Party For DIFFA

"CHAHUT" Table by Ken Fulk

The Fall party season in San Francisco is in full swing, and what better way to start it all off than with the "Art of the Table" Preview party benefiting DIFFA's DINING BY DESIGN. Gumps hosted the party last week featuring the table topping talents of these four top San Francisco designers: Ken Fulk, Claudia Juestel, Martha Angus and Orlando Diaz-Azcuy. The party was a kick-off event to the upcoming DIFFA events this November in San Francisco. To find out more about DIFFA DINING BY DESIGN click on over HERE.

Partnering in the event at Gumps were notable tableware masters: Hermes, Puiforcat, Cristal Saint-Louis, Raynaud, Ecruis, Alberto Pinto, Varga and Jean Louis Coquet. All contributed to the fantasy table decor put together by the designers.

When we arrived, the party was in full swing. We got a glass of wine and immediately found the tables. I have to say, I was a little star struck by the designer line-up. I am a long time admirer of each one of them.

I started at Ken Fulk's table, which was dazzling. Topped with the front half of a black stallion ringed with dozens of sunset hued roses, this table was off and running at first glance. Ken was so imaginative with this table, I hardly know where to begin!

The dark wood table was topped with a piece of glass which was back-painted with Hermes orange paint. Now, that is an idea that anyone could use to update a table and make it one-of-a-kind. Ken contacted Hermes to see if they might lend saddles to use as the dining "chairs". And they said "Yes"! Ken painted the saddle stands (also by Hermes) a fuchsia pink, topped them with the Hermes saddles, and draped those with Hermes scarves and belt buckles.

The table is set with Fil D'Argent China and Attalage Silver, both by Hermes. The Black Martini glass is by David Redmond, Martini Shaker by Lappas, Toroise DOF by Stueben, and charger by Laque De Chine Noir and Platinum by Haviland.

Ken added the crop (Hermes) as a "party favor", or perhaps just to whip a little more excitement into this equestrian fantasy. This run for the roses is a clear winner.

Hermes Saddle and Stand

Next up was "The Observer Effect" by Claudia Juestel. Claudia, founder and principal of Adeeni Design Group, brought her own design sensibilities to the table by designing a custom Dining Table with Brazilian Rosewood Veneer. She also created the custom dining chairs upholstered in a shagreen textured fabric.

"The Observer Effect" Table by Claudia Juestel

Claudia used China by Raynaud, silver by Ercuis and crystal by Saint Louis and Varga. The silver "bowls" at each place setting are made out of coins and titled "Beggar" Bowls, by Dave Meeker. The centerpiece of the table was not the expected flowers, but what appeared to be a miniature laser light show made from the "Shpera" Light Fixture by Matteo Thun coupled with "Quiet Tectonic" Single Channel Video Projection available through Baxter and Cook Art Advisors. Try THAT at your next party!

Perhaps my favorite thing about this setting was the brilliant bar cart design by Paul Benson. His talent never ceases to amaze. Paul works out of Sonoma and creates the most beautifully crafted metal and lacquered pieces of furniture art. You may remember his console from the Met Home Modern by Design Showhouse HERE.

"Tantalus" Bar Cabinet by Paul Benson

Martha, Martha, Martha! I love your designs! Full of artful fun, high and low, Martha Angus' table is as beautiful as it is accessible. Martha Angus designs are playful as well as sophisticated, which is just how I like it! Martha started things off with a Duodecogonal (say that ten times fast!) Mirrored Dining Table with etching from Sarlo. The beautiful orange and pink upholstered Gustavian and Louis XVI chairs are from Therien.

"NtRain" Table by Martha Angus

And here is where things get fun. The area rug is actually two IKEA rugs put together and the light fixture by Aargon Neon was made from plastic bags. Beauty and creativity is not dependent on price.

Martha topped the table with China by Alberto Pinto, Silver by Puiforcat and Crystal by Saint Louis. Lovely!

The table by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy was an imaginary High Tea with all of the First Ladies in attendance. Mr. Diaz-Azcuy began his thought process with the selection of the Pensees pattern by Bernardaud. The Pansy motif set the tone for the whole table. Mr. Diaz-Azcuy had pansies printed onto the table top (table and chairs were designed by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy for McGuire Furniture) as well as onto the tea cookies.

"High Tea with Bernardaud" table by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy

It was fun to see which of the First Ladies had their place cards at the table. Michelle and the last six all seemed to be in attendance. (Can you name them all?) Pretty and feminine at first glance, there as it was quite another story that was running through Mr. Diaz-Azcuy's head as he told us all what he imagined the ladies talked about at this party! Very entertaining!

After seeing the tables, there was a discussion with the designers about their designs and how they personally like to entertain. Marta Benson of Gumps introduced Diane Dorrans Saeks who led the discussion with the panel.

Ken Fulk and Marta Benson

Diane led a lively discussion, and I learned some very interesting tidbits! There were strong opinions as to whether paper napkins were acceptable or not. (What do you think?!)Orlando likes to play old movies without the sound at his dinner parties to keep the conversation flowing. Claudia loves to play Latin music, while Martha likes techno, but not while at the table. Ken was not able to enjoy his parties until he learned that people had much more fun when he did not worry too much about things being "perfect". Most importantly, everyone agreed that a good mix of friends is key, and that simple is sometimes best.

Diane Dorrans Saeks, Claudia Juestel, Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, Martha Angus

Claudia Juestel, Ken Fulk and Martha Angus

(Love the Houndstooth suit Ken!)

At the end of the party, guests were invited to purchase their tickets for the DIFFA DINING BY DESIGN Events November 18th and 19th. A lucky (SOOO lucky!!!) few purchasers won gift bags from Hermes!

Thank you again to Gumps who knows how to throw a perfect party!

And please hop on over to the DIFFA DINING BY DESIGN site to see how you can attend or help.

"C" and Me...OK...not just me!

I received a very kind email from my friend Diane Dorrans Saeks ( renowned author and blogger of The Style Saloniste) a couple of months ago asking if I would like to contribute a few words about where I like to go to "get away from it all" for a travel piece she was writing for C Magazine. I was thrilled to be asked of course! But, sometimes things do not necessarily come to fruition, so I tried to keep my hopes in check. But then I received an email from the magazine itself asking where could they send a copy! At that point, I realized it was going to happen!

A couple of days ago, I received some very kind emails from some blogger friends who had seen the piece. The excitement level went up another couple of notches. I just received my copy ( and yes, I had been waiting for the clunk of a magazine to fall from my mail slot so I could rush over and see if it had come!) and I have been unable to stop smiling for ....well, I'm still smiling! I was so honored to be included with the likes of Suzanne Rheinstein, Anne Fougeron, DelRae Roth, Christina Rottman and Martin Muller.

Here is the round-up of where these "Escape Artists" get away:

This particular issue is a "must have" for many reasons . Ken Fulk is featured in an article by Deborah Schoeneman, that covers his career and design style. Did you know he designed the home of the co founder of One King's Lane, Greg Pincus? He is also a self-described "hugger". I love a good hug! Great article with many project pictures by Mr. Fulk.

Mr. Fulk himself, and his SOMA Loft below:

There is also a feature by Christine Lennon about the five year old design firm, Commune, and two of four partners: Pamela Shamshiri and her brother Ramin and how they worked together to design the home of Ramin and his wife Donna Langley.

The house captures their love of Moorish architecture and shows off a decidedly California vibe. Here are the brother and sister in the home's courtyard.

Photo by Lisa Romerein

Such a great issue! I am going to settle in and savor my C magazine and have a cup of tea for the evening.

Thank you so very much C Magazine and Diane Dorrans Saeks for making my day!!!!

A Week in Napa Valley Starts with Ma(i)sonry

Ma(i)sonry

I was in Napa a couple of weeks ago and really...I had meant to blog about it sooner. But life has a way of turning things on their heads...me included. I had a wonderful day with two good friends, and aside from the sweltering heat ( I think it was 120 degrees....OK I'm exaggerating, but not by alot) we had so much fun. So, this week I am blogging about all of the things we did and places we went. (I know the title is a little confusing. I was there for the day, but YOU will be seeing our day all week!).

We came to Napa Valley for a wine tasting and book signing event taking place at Ma(i)sonry in Yountville. One of only three stone buildings constructed in Yountville, the building that is now Ma(i)sonry was built in 1904 as the primary residence of Charles Rovegno, an Italian immigrant lured to the fertile farmlands of the valley.

The newest owner, Michael Polenske, has taken this historic building and through careful preservation and meticulous renovation, has turned it into a showplace for fine art, carefully selected vintage furniture and beautifully crafted custom furniture, as well as a a boutique wine tasting venue. Ma(i)sonry has become a collective for a partnership of wine makers such as Blackbird Vineyards, Brown Estate, Joel Gott Wines, Lail Vineyards, Pedras Wine Company, Renteria Wines and Tor Kenward Family Wines.

Here is proprietor and curator, Michael Polenske with girlfriend, Kimberly Miller (editor of Daily Candy, San Francisco by the way!) Handsome couple, no?

Also an art and furniture collective, Ma(i)sonry is currently exhibiting works by Chiara Mondavi ( yes, THAT Mondavi) and Wade Hoefer. Furniture collective partners include such greats as Ron Mann, Alexandra von Furstenburg, Citizen:Citizen, and Hudson Furniture.

Front Room

Michael assembled a team of talent to renovate the building and the grounds with the help of Project manager, Paul Leary (also COO of Blackbird Vineyards....many hats!). Architects Douglas Thornley, Gould Evans/Baum Thornley, Designer Erin Martin , and Landscape Architect, Dave Roche of Roche + Roche worked to create the perfect marriage of historic preservation and modern design. Please check out the Ma(i)sonry website to learn all about the process. In the photo above you can see how the old stone walls were a rustic counterpoint to the new industrial modern staircase.

The spaces are filled with antiques and art, like the landscapes of Wade Hoefer shown above and below.

A piece by Chiara Mondavi hangs above a Bombe console.

Clever "art"!

Another piece by Chiara Mondavi sits above a console by Alexandra von Furstenburg.

The decomposed granite patio is full of furniture designed by legendary Ron Mann.

Doesn't it look lovely and cool here? I am sure it is wonderful on most days, but on this particular day it was hot, hot, hot!!!! I was very thankful that there was an abundance of a very refreshing citrus punch, and slices of cool watermelon, as well as delicious wines from the collective wineries. The table is all ready for the book signing for the Orlando Diaz-Azcuy book by Diane Dorrans Saeks, (which is available here)

Somehow Diane and Orlando managed to look serenely cool, collected and quite wonderful! Be sure to checkout Diane's blog, the Style Saloniste! She has a wealth of knowledge about design and architecture.

Many thanks to Michael and Kimberly for hosting such a fun event ! Ma(i)sonry is a "must see" for anyone planning a trip to the Napa Valley.

All photos by katiedid except those of the patio provided by Diane Dorrans Saeks

Blog Love: The Style Saloniste

In case you haven't already seen this very chic new blog, I wanted to introduce you to The Style Saloniste. Produced by the very gracious and talented author of many of our favorite design books, Diane Dorrans Saeks, this blog will be sure to add more style to your day.

The name "Style Saloniste" brings to mind those Paris Salons where the cultured and creative would gather and exchange provocative ideas and inspiration. I am sure you will add to the exchange!

The blog is full of information about Diane's recent jaunt to Venice, including preperation advice and where to find the perfect Bellini once you arrive.

Be sure to hop on over and give her a warm welcome to blogdom!

Book Signing Event at Gump’s: Orlando Diaz-Azcuy

Counterclockwise from bottom right: Diane Dorrans Saeks(author of Orlando Diaz-Azcuy from Rizzoli Books), Orlando Diaz-Azcuy (iconic Architect and Designer), Marta Benson (CEO of Gumps), and me.

I was so lucky to be invited to the book debut party at Orlando Diaz-Azcuy by Diane Dorrans Saeks in San Francisco last Thursday! The book is wonderful, and I am a long time admirer of Mr. Diaz-Azcuy, so was so happy to be able to have my copy signed by both this brilliant architect/designer and the book’s author.

Beautiful Lilacs at the signing table

We drove from Sacramento that afternoon to downtown San Francisco, and hurriedly walked over to Gumps from the parking garage, and who should I spy immediately upon walking in? Designer, Scot Meacham Wood from Tartanscot blog! We had made a plan to meet, but had never met before. I could spot this very handsome blogger right away. He is as charming in person as he is on his blog.

The party was in full swing when we arrived, but we were very happy to wait in line while looking at all of the spectacular creations of Andrew Fisher of Fisher Weisman . The coffee table in the photo below is just one example:

Another piece with bronze legs and exotic wood veneer:

I am sure I spotted Grant Gibson, designer and blogger in line ahead of us, but alas, missed meeting him. (We have since touched base and will try to meet up after his trip to Venice!) After getting our books signed we had to tour Gumps to see what beautiful new treasures had been added since our last visit. We found this gorgeous table setting upstairs:

I loved the black lacquer chairs! The smoky glass wine and water glasses were perfect with the pewter linen table cloth and place settings.

Another table with striking candelabras:

And the new furniture vignettes definitely give one design ideas to dream about:

After our upstairs looksee, it was back downstairs for more sightseeing. While I was looking at the newest from John Derian:

I ran into my old friend David Duncan Livingston, amazingly talented photographer and one of the main photo contributors to the Orlando Diaz-Azcuy book. Please do check out his website. You will no doubt recognize many of his photos from some of your favorite magazines. Oh! And he also has a blog here. (Great music too!)

David snapped this shot of me and my friend Lise who came with me. He also took the picture of Diane Dorrans Saeks, Marta Benson, CEO of Gumps, Orlando Diaz-Azcuy and me up at the top of the post. (It seems I have a thing or two to learn from David.)

The event was so much fun and it was an honor to meet one of my design heroes: Mr. Diaz-Azcuy. Thank you so very much to the gracious Diane Dorrans Saeks and Marta Benson for the most kind invitation. It was a wonderfully memorable evening!