Florence de Dampierre

Vélib'

2012-02-08T05:30:00.000-08:00

Photo
Aymar de Dampierre

Mes Favoris

With Spring approaching, I think of Paris. The city is not only beautiful to view by foot but also by utilizing the Vélib' bike sharing system started in 2007. This program, run by the Mairie de Paris has 20,000 bicycles in circulation with over 1,202 stations in every neighborhood.

Traversing Paris by vélo (bicycle) is great exercise as the city is not as flat as you may think and the rolling hills make this a great afternoon work out. The bikes are comfortable with sturdy baskets for shopping, ideal to place your bread and croissants when you stop by your local Boulangerie.

You can pay be credit card, €1.70 per day or €8 per week, which allows you unlimited 30 minute ride sessions. You can park the bikes anywhere. Take a ride over to Colette on Rue St. Honoré to see the latest arrivals in design and fashion.

A breathtaking backdrop unfolds as you ride along the edge of the Jardin des Tuileries with a gentle breeze fluttering the leaves as you pass. It is really true that, 'la ville est plus belle ā vélo."

New York City will introduce a Bike Share program similar to that used in Paris this year. The bikes will be unveiled at the 'Bike Share Open House' at the Grand Central Library, 135 East 46th St, on May 5th, 2012. The event will take place between 2:00 and 4:00 pm on that day.

I cannot wait to ride along the waterfronts of New York and around the galleries of Soho!

For information on the NYC Bike Share Program:
http://a841-tfpweb.nyc.gov/bikeshare/

In Paris Call
Allo Vélib' 01 30 7979 30

A Parisian Treasure 'Ladurée'

2012-01-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Mes Favoris

An afternoon delight is to stop fortea at Ladurée, 16 rue Royale, the original tearoom of the name and aParisian treasure. This Salon de Thé began as a bakery and was founded in1862 by its namesake, Louis Ernest Ladurée.

The rue Royale tearoomwas enlarged by Pierre Desfontaines, the second cousin of the founder, inthe middle of the 20th century. He was the creator of theworld renowned Ladurée macaroons and is honored with the creation of a new macaroon flavor every year.

As you peer through the windows, you see the pastel towers of macaroons and the reflection of the Paris street in the glass. The pastel colors are a rich palette incorporated in the décor and there is a fabulous fresco ceiling to complete the ambiance. A perfect luxury to indulge in is the 'English style' finger sandwichselection assortment of 4 delicate sandwiches with various fillings: Ham,Scottish smoked salmon, Beaufort cheese, and Piquilos sweet peppers.

After the tea and sandwiches, I long for the macaroons that appeal to all the senses; beautiful color, subtle fragrance and intense flavor. I can satisfy my desire for sweets with a small amount of these delicious offerings. The Ladurée macaroon is created by marrying two macaroons with a heavenly filling of ganache or fruit preserves in the middle. My absolute favorite is the caramelmacaroon with salted butter, but I also love the pistachio, apple, cassis violet, pétale de rose and liquorice flavors.

There are wonderful sweets and chocolates including the Souris Chérie (chocolate mice) that make a delicious yet whimsical gift in a Ladurée signature box. Their candle collection in the Ladurée pastel packaging is always in my bag for my flight home.

Photos in Paris
Aymar de Dampierre

Ladurée

16 rue Royale

Paris VIII

01-42-60-21-79

David Holder, a dynamic new chairman who took over the reins of Ladurée in 1993, has had the vision to bring the tradition of refined delicacies to other shores. A fortuitous gain forNew Yorkers who now have the very own Ladurée on Madison Avenue.

Inside the Madison Avenue shop, Mr. Holder has kept the promise to offer "the world a place where a scent of absolute delicate sweets reigns."

We look forward to the opening of the tearoom which will join the existing shop. For now, I am on my way to Madison Avenue to purchase some of the caramel macaroons to share with my American friends!

Ladurée NYC
864 Madison Avenue
646-558-3157
(Photos courtesy of Ladurée)

Au Nom de la Rose

2012-01-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

Mes Favoris

I recently stopped in Paris after a whirlwind visit toVietnam to see my new furniture line with John Richard. Whenever I return toFrance, I love to visit my favorite restaurants, shops, parks and bakeries. These are the places that I like to share withall my friends.

Upon entering the door at ‘Au Nom de la Rose’, 46 rue du Bac7e, Paris, the senses are awakened; natural fragrances and a visual palette ofrichly colored roses abound in the shop. The roses assembled in the bouquets come from allover Europe and there are also voluminous blooms cultivated in Ecuador. At ‘Nom de la Rose', the displays on the café tablesare themselves works of art with hundreds of rose petals strewn around vases,flowers and gifts. Their specialty scented candles and soaps are wonderfulofferings for family and friends.

In addition to the ‘Compositions de Roses’, the boutiquefreeze dries their magnificent roses and artfully places them in boxes. These unique decorative items can last up tothree years! Mes favoris are the redsand vibrant pink blooms. These arrangements are perfect for a living room,bedroom or entryway and also make an ideal hostess gift.

www.aunomdelarose.fr Tel- 01-42-22-22-12

Photos
Aymar de Dampierre

The Joy of Shortcuts

2012-01-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve

2011-12-28T12:41:00.000-08:00

Chez Nous

Our New Year’s Parties at home revolve around creating a relaxed atmosphere, whimsical table and offering a buffet of easy menu choices where guests mingle, tell jokes and reflect on the year to come.

A single color theme is dramatic for the evening. Ask your guests to dress in pink, purple or black and white which will add to the festive style of the party. Younger family members can create stars and add glitter in your color theme. These stars can be strewn around the buffet table and over strategically placed mirrors on your table to reflect the light and color throughout the room.

Fondue is a wonderful food choice for a New Year’s Party at home as guests are involved in the process, encouraging light-hearted conversation and fun. Why not try a three course Fondue menu with Cheese Fondue as a starter, Beef Bourguignon cooked in oil with 5 different sauces and a Chocolate fondue dessert with papaya, banana, pineapple and strawberry dipping choices.

Here is an easy to prepare Cheese Fondue recipe from Pariscapes

Cheese Fondue
(La Fondue à Trois Fromages)

Rub the Caquelon (or any other Fondue Cookware) with a clove of garlic to set a hint of flavor.

Add cheeses such as le Beaufort, le Comté, and l'Emmenthal in equal thirds.

Mix over heat and add a little bit of dry white wine (or lemon for those who prefer not to use alcohol).

Finally, add a pinch of nutmeg and a little bit of ground black pepper.

Serve with small pieces of well-baked bread

For a fun ice breaker, instead of hearing New Year’s Resolutions, ask each guest to write down their favorite joke or story from 20ll. Take time during dessert and champagne to go around the room to hear them.

Holiday Lunch with Girlfriends

2011-12-21T12:08:00.001-08:00

It is a welcome respite from the rush of the holidays to prepare a relaxing lunch for your best girlfriends. This is the time for easy yet elegant entertaining with food that is the chic equivalent of comfort food. This delicious combination for lunch includes: ham and cheese quiche, chicken salad, carrot salad and green salad with a traditional French vinaigrette.

I wanted to share my recipe for 'Chic Quiche' with all my blog subscribers:

Chic Quiche

Serves 6

1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter

One 9-inch store-bought pie crust

3 eggs

1 cup milk (or heavy cream)

1 cup whipped cream cheese

1/2 pound Swiss cheese, grated

2 slices ham (smoked Black Forest is preferable),

cut into small pieces

1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, coarsely chopped

Coarse sea salt, a pinch

Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch

Butter a 9-inch ceramic pie dish. Place the pie crust inside. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix eggs, milk and cream cheese. Add Swiss cheese and ham. Sprinkle the thyme, salt and pepper on top.

Bake in a pre-heated 350° F. oven until the crust is brown, about 45 minutes. Remove dish from the oven. Serve warm.

Hudson Home!

2011-11-24T11:04:00.001-08:00

Dear followers,

I'm so sorry I haven't been able to blog because I was in Vietnam!! (Photos are soon to come!) I wanted to go and check on some prototypes of my upcoming furniture line! I can't believe it's coming out in the spring, I'm so excited for it to come out! But this upcoming Saturday, November 26, 2011 I'm going to be having a double book signing with Matthew Patrick Smyth at 365 Warren Street, Hudson, NY between 4:30 - 6:30 PM!

For more information go to:
http://www.hudson-home.com/two_designers_who_inspire_us_dou.htm

-xx Florence

Rizzoli Trend Setter Book Signing!

2011-10-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

Join Rizzoli for a superstar book signing event on Sunday, October 23rd in High Point Market, North Caroline at 4!
for more information:
highpointmarket.org

The Oliver Wolcott Library

2011-09-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

At The Oliver Wolcott Library in Litchfield, CT on Tuesday, September 27th 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. I will doing a presentation on Walls
For more info go to:
http://www.owlibrary.org/programs.php?sl=3
To register go to:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1891638943

Lecture, book signing, and dinner

2011-09-19T15:25:00.001-07:00

Time
Wednesday, September 21 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location
NATIONAL ARTS CLUB
15 Gramercy Park South, New York, NY 10003
More Info
Walls: Fresco - Wood Paneling - Stenciling - Wallpaper -- Florence De Dampierre (9780847835942)
Please message me if you would like to attend!

Gunn Memorial Library and Museum!

2011-09-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

This upcoming weekend I'm going to be doing a lecture in Washington, CT and I'm so excited to get back to promoting my book! As you can see I've decided to do a furniture line and this past month I've been finalizing designs! I'm so excited to see the way the line come out!

Below is the information for my lecture!

Gunn Writers
Saturday, September 17th @ 1:00pm
Walls: The Best of Decorative Treatments
by Florence de Dampierre

Join us as acclaimed French interior designer and decorative arts historian Florence de Dampierre shares her latest book, an inspiring collection of the best decorative wall treatments. de Dampierre has chosen the finest examples that have proven to be the most relevant for today's home interior design. She'll also talk about some of the practical advice included at the end of each chapter -such as mixing pigments, application tips, maintenance, and restoration. Beautifully photographed, the book offers innumerable wall treatment ideas that can be seamlessly integrated with furnishings of modern interiors to create an original ambience. Copies will be available for sale & signing.
Ms. de Dampierre is a noted interior designer, furniture historian, and author. Her previous books include 'Florence de Dampierre French Chic: The Art of Decorating Houses' and 'Chairs: A History'. She has been a contributing designer to House & Garden Magazine's French Designer Show House and has a roster of personal design clients. She was a contributing editor to the much missed House & Garden magazine and currently writes lifestyle stories for newspapers and magazines. She has lectured extensively around the country and been a curator for numerous museum exhibitions. For more information, visit www.florencededampierre.com.
Fun @ the Gunn
Jr Library Programs

Visit our website:
www.gunnlibrary.org

Our programs are free & open to the public.
Registration is recommended.

"John-Richard announces Florence de Dampierre collection to debut for April 2012 High Point Market"

2011-08-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

This week it was announced into the public that I would be designing a furniture for John Richard and to find more information about this topic you can scroll down:

John-Richard announces Florence de Dampierre collection to debut for April 2012 High Point Market
Home Accents Today Staff -- Home Accents Today, 8/2/2011 4:26:23 PM
GREENWOOD, Miss. — John-Richard, a home furnishings manufacturer based here, will showcase a comprehensive home collection designed by Florence de Dampierre at the April 2012 High Point Furniture Market, the company announced.

Florence de Dampierre, an interior designer and antiques expert, opened the first American antiques shop devoted solely to eighteenth- and nineteenth-century painted furniture, in 1985. Florence de Dampierre Antiques became a multimillion dollar enterprise with an international clientele.

De Dampierre's interior design work has been featured in Elle Decor and House Beautiful, and she lectures frequently on design topics and has curated museum exhibitions. She is the author of "The Best of Painted Furniture," "The Decorators," "Chairs: A History," "French Chic: The Art of Decorating Houses" and "Walls: Frescos, Wood Paneling, Stenciling, Wallpaper." To learn more about de Dampierre, visit www.florencededampierre.com.

She will create an entire collection of home furnishings specifically for John-Richard that will include case goods, upholstery, wall art/mirrors, accessories and lighting.

"We are excited to be working with Florence in what is a new direction for John-Richard," said Alan Galbraith, president of John-Richard. "We have shied away from other licenses because they typically only want to incorporate one or two of our product lines and utilize a fraction of our overall capabilities. In this case, Florence gets to use her prodigious talent to create an entire lifestyle manufactured by one company, sold by one sales force and merchandized together in one showroom."
-
http://www.homeaccentstoday.com/article/541609-John_Richard_announces_Florence_de_Dampierre_collection_to_debut_for_April_2012_High_Point_Market.php

All the Best Blog

2011-08-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

The amazing "All the Best Blog recently just featured some photos from the lunch I had with the blogger herself: Ronda Carmen and a recipe I used for one of my salads that day! Below is the link to her website:
http://www.allthebestblog.co.uk/2011/07/salad-on-sunday-and-a-tomato-tart-too.html

"The right impression"

2011-07-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

This past week I've been so busy taking care of my children that I forgot to blog, but I managed to find some articles discussing walls! Below is an article from: http://www2.tbo.com/shopping/homeseeker/2011/jun/26/the-right-impression-ar-239211/

The Right Impression
Stencils date to ancient Greece and Rome and have endured because they are attractive, relatively easy to produce and inexpensive. Plus, they aren't just for walls anymore.

Modern stencil work can be found in such unexpected places as furniture, lamp shades and vases — even floors, doors and windows.

Stencils are a great way to add interest and color to a room, said Manhattan designer Florence de Dampierre, author of "Walls: The Best of Decorative Treatments" (Rizzoli, 2011).

"They last, and you don't need to be an incredible artist to do them," de Dampierre said. "You can buy them at any craft store or create them yourself by tracing a picture you like."

The rest of the article is available at this link:
http://www2.tbo.com/shopping/homeseeker/2011/jun/26/the-right-impression-ar-239211/

New Britain Museum of American Art

2011-06-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

EDUCATION
WALLS: From Frescoes to Wallpaper, History, Inspiration & Design
A spread from de Dampierre’s new book, Walls, available in the Museum Shop.
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 2011 5:30 P.M. RECEPTION 6 P.M. LECTURE FOLLOWED BY BOOK SIGNING $15 MEMBERS; $20 NON-MEMBERS PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED CONTACT HEATHER WHITEHOUSE AT WHITEHOUSEH@NBMAA.ORG
CATHARINE M. ROGERS DISTINGUISHED LECTURE FEATURING ACCLAIMED FRENCH INTERIOR DESIGNER AND DECORATIVE ARTS HISTORIAN FLORENCE DE DAMPIERRE
Connoisseur, renaissance woman, esteemed interior designer, author, entertainer and cook, Florence de Dampierre will join us June 23 to speak on the topic of her just published volume: Walls: The Best of Decorative Treatments: Mural • Wood • Panel • Stencil • Wallpaper.
Throughout history, there has been a desire to express the esprit of a period by decorating the walls of our homes. From Italianate murals in Renaissance villas and the whimsical painted panels of the Musée Carnavalet, to English Arts and Crafts wallpaper and Frederic Church’s stenciled homestead Olana, noted connoisseur de Dampierre shows how decorating walls can transform an interior space to dramatic effect that harmoniously creates a rich, sophisticated look.
Florence de Dampierre is the author of several books, including Chairs: A History, The Best of Painted Furniture, and French Chic. Her interior design work has been featured in Elle Décor and House Beautiful. She lectures frequently on design topics. Raised in Paris, she currently resides in Manhattan and Litchfield, CT. For more information, please visit florencededampierre.com.
De Dampierre’s book, Walls, will be available in the Museum Shop in April. Check nbmaa.org for the latest information.

Rural Intelligence

2011-06-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

Below is the article from Rural Intelligence:

If they were less witty and exuberant, it might be tempting to describe the books written by Florence de Dampierre (her 5th, Walls: The Best of Decorative Treatments, has just been published by Rizzoli) as reference works. Thorough and intelligent, rich in history and anecdote, they are rarities—“coffee table books” that are as valuable for their text as for their stunning photographs. Which may explain why, in a world where such books are wont to come and go in a season or two, de Dampierre’s are perennial bestsellers. Her first, The Best of Painted Furniture, published in 1987 and still in print, is a must-have for anyone who aspires to be well-versed about interior design.
Born and raised in Paris, Florence de Dampierre attended a now-defunct, famously rigorous all-girls lycee on the Rue des Invalides. “We were taught by nuns,” she says “Nearly all of us did the baccalauréat,” the secondary school curriculum that screens students bound for university. De Dampierre went on to study medicine, before abandoning academia to decamp first for London then New York. Nothing about her flamboyant life thereafter would suggest such an earnest start. In the mid-80s, Florence de Dampierre Antiques in New York, specialized in 18th- and 19th-century painted furniture and was famous for the conviviality of its proprietor and for its Pompeian red walls. When I interviewed de Dampierre around that time for New York Magazine at her stylish upper east side apartment, she epitomized young French chic—pretty, vivacious and au courant in her size 2 Chanel. Shortly thereafter, Eleanor Lambert named her to The Best Dressed List.

So how did this French glamazon end up in Litchfield? De Dampierre, normally chatty, disposes of the topic with a quick, “My husband [investor Sean Mathis] had some property near here,” as if no further explanation were required for such an obviously propitious move. The mother of three, her two youngest grew up in this seat of apple-pie Americana. Son, Cameron, 21, now at the University of Pennsylvania, played soccer at Taft, then did a post-grad at Hotchkiss (not coincidentally, his mother strongly implies, the very year they won the soccer championship). Her daughter, Valentina, 13, attends the public school. De Dampierre, a self-taught interior designer, has clients in Connecticut, New York, and around the world. Somewhere in all of this, between her business, attending distant soccer matches armed with snacks, and whipping up a mousse au chocolat for a Saturday-night dinner party, she manages to write worthwhile books.

“I write at night, in English,” she says. “I like doing books that have meat.” In Walls, her concern is not with the ordinary walls most of us live with—“a solid-colored backdrop blending in with furnishings and paintings,” rather with decorated walls—murals, wood paneling, stenciling, and wallpaper—that make a substantial contribution to ambiance. The book starts with antiquity and gradually brings us into the present, with countless amusing stops along the way. Drawing on a 1437 treatise on egg tempera, she paraphrases the Italian author’s earnest advice: “Country eggs are redder and better suited to making the color blue. Towns eggs are whiter….He suggested painting young faces with town eggs, while country eggs were preferable for painting old men.” She tells how the poet and artistic visionary Dante Gabriel Rossetti (1828 – 1882) fell short when it came to practical concerns: His pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood failed to properly prepare the walls of the Oxford Union Society’s Debating Hall before painting them with murals depicting Arthurian legends: “Sadly,...the brilliantly colored works dissolved almost immediately.”

The principal photography in Walls is credited to top interiors specialists Pieter Estersohn and Tim Street-Porter, both of whom have extensive archives. De Dampierre drew up lists of the rooms she needed. “I kind of know the subject,” she says. For images that could be gotten no other way, such as this close-up of the remarkable stenciling at Olana, she and Street-Porter hit the road. “Tim took many of the pictures expressly for this book.”

A dressing room with Etruscan-inspired painted walls, above left, designed by Robert Adam (1728 – 1792) shares a spread with a contemporary Parisian study, above right, with walls adorned with a charming adaptation of Adam’s design. This contemporary room, alone, would be enough to satisfy the most skeptical reader that we do, indeed, need a thorough knowledge of these old-fashioned, often antique, labor-intensive, decorative effects. “They’re very good on sheetrock walls in new construction,” De Dampierre points out. “They give age and instant nobility to a room. You don’t need much art—just wallpaper or stenciling and curtains, and a room is immediately cozy.”

Mrs. Blandings!

2011-06-05T16:00:00.001-07:00

Below is an article from Mrs. Blandings discussing my newest book:

Mrs. Blandings

Wall Flower

Somewhat suddenly, a vision is starting to appear. A plan. Just for the backgrounds, really, though it has my blood jumping a little.

I have called to see about the weird spot on the ceiling and discovered Folly Green is great for the dining room, and aptly named as well, I fear. An omen for the stenciling perhaps.

The strie glaze that I thought would be a piece of cake has turned into a piece of, well, unpleasantness and I am now experimenting with glazes and brushes which was not part of the plan.

I looked for wallpaper yesterday for the first time in years. It came back quickly, the fast flip to see if anything would catch my eye. I rediscovered a few friends and we reminisced over rooms they have adorned.

I know some people say "Rugs first!" but my visions tend to come fully formed and it is the paint that I can usually afford fastest, so my houses start with walls. Today I will be out hunting and gathering information to help with the living room wall project; I am so anxious to begin.

All the images today are from Walls, the Best of Decorative Treatments by Florence de Dampierre, Rizzoli International. The cover may lead you to believe this is purely a traditional tome, but there is inspiration for every taste. Murals, panels, paper and paint, there are fine examples of them all. Photography, Pieter Estersohn.

Trade Secrets

2011-05-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 14th , 2011 at the Trade Secrets Sale Event, there will be a special book signing event! Please stop by the Author's Table near the Johnnycake Books display area to meet the author's, purchase a book and have them sign your copy.

Below is the some information about the event:
http://www.tradesecretsct.com/

-xxFlorence

Let's Spring into May!

2011-05-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

These past two months I've been going from lecture to another and signing books non-stop! But, finally I can tell you what's out in the world today! My new book has been featured in several magazines lately and here are the links:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/c24474f8-661b-11e0-9d40-00144feab49a.html#axzz1JfvVuPyW
http://www.rep-am.com/articles/2011/04/20/lifestyle/552885.txt
http://www.neighbornewspapers.com/stories/French-author-historian-to-speakbrat-Decorators-Show-House-Gardens,171117
http://www.elledecor.com/image/tid/6340?page=12

My new book is definitely one of my best and is available at:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_30?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=walls+by+florence+de+dampierre&sprefix=walls+by+florence+de+dampierre

Enjoy your Mother's Day and this beautiful weather!
-xxFlorence

My New Book is Finally Out!

2011-04-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

"Walls" is finally out! I am so excited for the world to now be able to read and enjoy the great contents of it. The new book focuses on decorative wall treatments from around the world. Several blogs have been talking about the up coming of this fine work. I am also honored to have my new book introduced on the homepage of Material Girls Chicago Design Blog. In the article they display some of the images right from my book. I have recieved many comments that tell me how much this book has already inspired many people. Also thank you PlumSiena and Design and Tell Blogs for your wonderful thoughts and comments on my new book.

There are also some articles and images here from Lonny Magazine:
March/April 2011 Issue | Lonnymag.com

March/April 2011 Issue | Lonnymag.com

March/April 2011 Issue | Lonnymag.com

March/April 2011 Issue | Lonnymag.com

March/April 2011 Issue | Lonnymag.com

Here are some links to the other articles.
http://materialgirlsblog.com/chicago/2011/03/16/if-these-walls-could-talk/
http://blog.vandm.com/2011/03/second-skin-decorative-wall-treatments.html#more
http://www.styleofdesign.com/2011/03/if-these-walls-could-talk…/
http://cesmebreeze.wordpress.com/
http://laurau.com/blog/?p=866
http://plumsiena.blogspot.com/2011/03/walls-must.html

There is also an article written about me and my new book in the Litchfield County Times paper, the Litchfield Magazine and the Best of Season. It explains my thoughts of how each period of design and ideas seems to learn something from the previous and use it to create something different and many other opinions. Also in the Architectural Digest they describe my book as "a breathtaking look at some of the most unique and exquisite wall treatments to date." What a nice thing to say!

Here is a link to these articles.
http://www.countytimes.com/articles/2011/03/17/life/doc4d821f40a28be759159198.txt?viewmode=fullstory
http://bestofseason.net/exuberant-wallflowers/
http://www.architecturaldigest.com/resources/features/2011/04/surface_sourcebook_slideshow#slide=1

New York School of Design!

2011-03-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

Not only is Walls about to come out , but I also have several lectures coming up and one happens to be at the New York School of Design! I love the New York School of Design and I am so excited that I am going to be giving a lecture there! The information is posted below:

Please contact Potterton Books to register for the lecture
tel. 212-644-2292
fax. 646-840-2949
or online at www.pottertonbooksusa.com
or go to http://www.pottertonbooksusa.com/ny/type.php?t=16

The lecture is Tuesday, March 22nd at 6:00 p.m.
Gallery entrance at 161 East 69th Street, but you first must register!

Also thank you to Beth at Potterton Books, she is the best!

Countdown To Walls!

2011-03-12T07:57:00.000-08:00

Im starting the countdown for the Walls release! Walls is going to come out in one week and you can still pre-order it on Amazon!
I am so excited for this book to come out and I hope everyone will like it as much as I do!
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_27?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=walls+florence+de+dampierre&sprefix=walls+florence+de+dampierre

Comments On Walls

2011-03-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

My newest book Walls is about to come out and it has been getting some great reviews from:

http://www.architecturaldigest.com/resources/features/2011/04/surface_sourcebook_slideshow#slide=1
http://katie-d-i-d.blogspot.com/2011/03/considering-wallsa-give-away.html
http://www.lonnymag.com/issues/16-march-april-2011-issue/pages/1?fs=1#p42

Thank you so much for all these great reviews and to Katie at: http://katie-d-i-d.blogspot.com/2011/03/considering-wallsa-give-away.html for giving away a free Walls book to a lucky winner!

Whats Hot for Spring

2011-02-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

These past two weeks have been incredibly busy. Last week I stayed in the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas while I presented a lecture at the Las Vegas Design Center. My stay was memorable. This week most of my attention focused on book signings and decorating jobs of the moment. Because of this I haven't had the time to blog and keep everyone updated. While I have some time, however, here's what's in for the Spring! Orange accents are in for Spring! With bold colors making a huge comeback and adding a nice pop to your average room these are the perfect thing to have! Here are some perfect examples of orange accents:

My Local Magazine

2011-02-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

The other day I was featured in my local town's magazine and it is a great article! Here is the link: http://www.townvibe.com/Litchfield/March-April-2011/What-039s-On-Your-Walls/

Walls!

2011-01-28T10:23:00.000-08:00

Its almost here and you can still order it for pre-order at Amazon!
Here is a link to the website:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_30?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=walls+by+florence+de+dampierre&sprefix=walls+by+florence+de+dampierre

The New York Social Diary

2011-01-21T12:47:00.000-08:00

The other day I was interviewed for the New York Social Diary and I would appreciate it if people looked at the article. Here is the link:
http://www.newyorksocialdiary.com/node/1904989

xx Florence

Facebook

2011-01-17T18:26:00.001-08:00

I have never really thought much about getting a Facebook or making a page, until I saw The Social Network. I then realized how amazing it is and so I decided to make a Facebook, my daughter then made me a page. I would really appreciate it if people looked at my page and my Facebook. My name on Facebook is: Florence de Dampierre and the name of my page is: Florence De Dampierre.

xx Florence

Comments on 'French Chic'

2010-12-30T12:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was looking at my email and I found a very nice comment from Courtney ~ French Country Cottage and she said...
"Hi there- Just got 'French chic' the other day and am enjoying it immensely! What a beautiful home and style you have- truly a dream! Happy Holidays to you and yours!"
I appreciate the comments! Keep on posting.
-
xx Florence

Florence de Dampierre: New Year!

2010-12-30T10:25:00.000-08:00

Florence de Dampierre: New Year!

My new book is available for pre-order at:

http://www.amazon.com/Walls-Mural-Panel-Stencil-Wallpaper/dp/0847835944/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1293732593&sr=8-1

New Year!

2010-12-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

I'm apologize for not updating my blog in these past months, I've been overwhelmed with my new book that is available for pre-order now. Two thousand and ten was an amazing year for me and I hope everyone's was just as wonderful. Have a happy New Year!
-
xx Florence

2009-09-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

another Book signing.

2009-09-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

PLEASE JOIN US!

FLORENCE DE DAMPIERRE

Will Sign Copies of Her Book
French Chic - The Art of Decorating Houses

at J. Seitz & Co.
9 East Shore Road, New Preston, CT
(860)868-0119

Saturday, September 5, 2009
2PM to 4PM

RSVP: amanda.seitz@gmail.com

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2009-04-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

Living with art, Nabil Nahas an extraordinary painter in front of one of his chef d'oeuvre

2009-04-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

2009-04-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

More Suggestions in decorating with Art, look at the painting of Thomas McKnight.

2009-04-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

It is important to have in your house paintings that means something to you and that you like.
Thomas Mc Knight, the author of those paintings, is a good friend and a great artist. Throughout the 1980s McKnight's art became increasingly popular, and by the end of the decade he was at the top of his field: six books (including two in Japanese) had been devoted to his work, and hundreds of silkscreen editions had been sold. His art was perhaps even more well-known in Japan, where he was commissioned to paint a series of views of Kobe for the city's 1993 fair.
In 1994 he was commissioned by the White House to paint the first of three images for President Clinton's official Christmas card. In the mid- nineties McKnight deepened his visions, and in the process began to paint larger and more built-up canvases.
Today, McKnight's work is represented in the permanent collection of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art and in the Smithsonian Institution. It is also on display at the Clinton Library in Little Rock, AR and in countless businesses and homes. He lives not far from me in a beautiful neo- colonial house. He has converted the top floor to a loft-like studio where he spends most of his time reading, dreaming, and creating pictures of real and imagined Arcadias.
His painting are colorful, inspiring and beautiful. Go look at them !

2009-04-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Perfect example of whimsical art

2009-03-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

My friend Garry Komarin is a prolific painter, creating colorful, upbeat, canvas. They enhance any decor.
Live with art. It is a good thing.....!

2009-03-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Art and decoration a tricky question

2009-03-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

I am just back from Palm Beach, Florida, where I gave a lecture at the Four Arts. It was a lot of fun.
One question seems to come back.
Can we mix contemporary art and antiques or classic furniture?
My answer is: Yes, of course, as long as it is heart felt and authentic.

French Chic is in the mix. Go ahead mix, mix, and mix again.

I have a lot of friends who are artists or painters. You should try to follow some that you like.
My suggestion for today is a friend of mine, Garry Komarin. He has painted a series called:
French Wigs, they are whimsical and charming.
Whimsy is so important in life and in decoration...... They can go with everything.

Frenquently ask question? Taste can it be acquired?

2009-02-24T14:14:00.000-08:00

One of the question which seems to come again and again after my lecture is: Taste ? Help how can we get it?
There is hope for everybody.
Taste is something you can built. The more you know, the more you can create references for yourself and develop your own style.
So relax, learn and taste will come.....

my favorite blogs so far...and so chic....

2009-02-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

Style court
Peak of Chic
Ava design
Design secrets
Mrs Blanding
Style Beat
apartement Therapy
Bibliostyle
Element of Style
Topsy curvy style
Habitually Chic
Blogtrepeneur
At first Bite
rural intelligence
GlamNest
Remodelista

The cover of my book "French Chic"

2009-02-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

French chic demystified February 12 in Litchfield

2009-02-05T17:31:00.000-08:00

Events at the OWL
French Chic: The Art of Decorating Houses
Book Discussion, Reception & Signing with Florence de Dampierre

2009-02-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

2009-02-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

Chic Advice for bedrooms from my new book French Chic

If you are buying an antique bed, remember that king-size did not exist before the twentieth century.

If clean lines and practicality matter to you, a steel and metal frame is the way to go.

Comfortable duvets are pretty and easy to use. Their covers can be washed and ironed in a flash.

Mattress pads in down or wool will make your bed extra-delicious. Do not skimp on the quality of your mattress.

I like pale colors on bedroom walls. I am partial to old-fashioned “toile.” It is peaceful and subtle. An upholstered headboard is a must in my view, comfortable, simple, and not overly expensive. Remember high and low. Simplicity is good in my view, more conducive to light dreams.

You have been dreaming of a romance in an all white bedroom with comfy pillows, the softest cotton or linen. Satin and dark colors do not do it for me. Surprisingly enough, flannel sheets in the winter are delightfully comfy, especially after being washed again and again. Try it! Design and cleanliness go hand-in-hand for a luxurious and restful bedroom. Sweet dreams. Do not let the bed-bugs bite.

2009-02-03T13:43:00.000-08:00

Bonjour !

Welcome to my new blog.
I am happy to share my secrets about French Chic....

Every week or whenever I can I hope to be able to post ideas, tips and recipes.

2009-02-03T13:42:00.000-08:00