Last week Thomas Lavin, owner of my favorite showroom, rang the office to tell me about a talk that our friend Madeline Stuart was giving today. He knew that Steve and I are not only friends with Madeline, but we are also huge fans of her work and wouldn't want to miss this event. He was right! Although we've heard Madeline discuss her work before, we always learn something new, and this time was no exception.
Madeline discussed this home that she designed for Lisa Henson. What I didn't know is that she designed all of the upholstered pieces for this home, including the Beatrice slipper chair that is now part of her furniture line.
Of course she designed this wall mural as well.
This is one of my favorite Madeline Stuart interiors. Ok, I may be biased because Steve was the architect, but it is gorgeous. She designed all of the upholstered pieces for this home too.
Who wouldn't love to be a guest in this bedroom?
I was completely fascinated listening to her discuss the care she takes in designing all of her furniture pieces. It really shows when you see the detailing in person.
The Caroline Tray Table is one of my favorite Madeline Stuart pieces. Look at the fluted detailing on the tray and the beautiful finish on the wood and brass castors.
The Rosalind Wing Chair would be a focal point in any room.
Doesn't Madeline look fantastic surrounded by the Rosalind? You can visit her web site to view the rest of her furniture line .
I think the reason Madeline is such an engaging speaker is because she is so open and honest. During her talk she discussed the fact that she wished she would have gone to a design school.
During the question and answer portion of the discussion, one admirer said exactly what all of the rest of us were thinking: If Madeline Stuart would have gone to school, she just wouldn't be Madeline Stuart. Her designs have an authenticity that you can't learn in school. It's innate. Madeline was born with it. She would argue that she was given her gift from her interior design mother. That's just Madeline. Never willing to take credit for her amazing talent.
It was a wonderful day. What could be better than listening to one of your favorite designers and running into Windsor Smith (who Steve and I haven't seen since New Orleans). I asked her if I could move into her home. She said that it might be a bit crowded but I was welcome to come to dinner. Who wouldn't say yes to that invitation? More to follow....
Meg, Windsor, and Me.
xo
Brooke
