A Cottage Redefined

I was recently going through a special edition of Southern Living: Small Space Ideas. It is a fantastic issue that I highly recommend purchasing for inspiration for those jewel box spaces. While big new homes tend to have a place for everything and fresh sense of self, I think small charming homes are a little more fun to decorate. With small spaces it is necessary to edit, but it is also necessary to have it look collected and punchy with pattern and texture.

One sweet cottage I kept revisiting in the issue is the New Orleans home of Karina Gentinetta. She created a chic revival inspired home that is adorned with charming shutters, a wooden picket fence, and architecturally intriguing details on the outside. The incredible fact about this house: it is new construction. They modeled this home after their 1850 creole cottage. The inside is full of vintage antiques, airy elegance, and a warm textured ambience. I love how it is a mix of old and new. Nothing is overly formal or contrived. It is livable luxury in the form of quaint. Happy Tuesday! XO

 

Photos by Laurey W. Glenn for Southern Living

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 4

Victorian corbets, painted shutters, and a perfectly placed picket fence that oozes charm.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 7

Look at how they antiqued the floorboards. Pretty pales of plants are scattered throughout the side porch entrance.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 2

More of the “new” of the house  comes out in the exposed shelving and stainless island. I love the juxtaposition of the brass chandelier and the rustic wood table with the clean subways tile lines of the kitchen.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 3

I am obsessed with this room that is plush with texture, and surrounded by books, antiques, and established art. It feels current, yet established.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 5

A lovely vignette on this secertary. It is very evident that every piece has a past.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living 8

Everything about this screams chic. The patterns of brown, the use of the sofa as a banquet, the white sconces, and the gallery wall.

Karina Gentinetta via Southern Living

Gorgeous interior french doors and white painted hardwood leads to a light-filled hallway with pops of marigold curtains.

Driveway Days

In many places, especially Florida, driveways are often the first thing you see. Let’s face it, they are not often pretty. Your average overhead garage door and cement driveway are most likely not as pretty as your front entrance. Just because it is not the norm, doesn’t mean it is not possible. I think any key to a pretty garage is…landscape! Chances are you probably don’t have a patch of grass close by, but I think nothing is prettier than ivy, bougainvillea, climbing roses or anything well hedged. A lovely lantern and a well molded garage door can also make quite the pop. Just make it pretty!

It is best to treat your garage door as another door to your home and to treat your driveway as another room of the house. Before your entry, your drive is your first impression. Make it count! Here is a sampling of gracious driveways and garage doors to start your morning drive.

 

Bill Litchfield gravel drive with boxwood via Hammersmith Atlanta

A well crafted array of potted boxwood line this gravel drive by Bill Litchfield. Gravel driveways, particularly those lined with potted boxwood, are a true sign of high-end.

Garage door by Howard Design Studio

A terrific trio of garage doors with a splattering of espalier by Howard Design Studios.

fantastic arched driveway via Homebunch

In you go, past the spheres of boxwood, ivy covered drive, and navy-gray shutters. A lovely display of symmetry and good taste. Via Homebunch

Grass driveway via Southern Living

Grass and stone patterns provide an excellent element of pattern, texture, and design to this already stunning Spanish-style jewel. Via Southern Living

Covered Breezeway via Atlanta Home Mag

A weathered gray driveway that turns into pavers at the side entrance. The creamy white brick and beige window panes provide a great background for the display of greenery around the home.

Hedged driveway with herringbone brick

Now this a well hedged driveway. I often wonder how long it takes to grow something like this. Turning something as mundane as a driveway into something magical! Via So Much More Than NL

Lovely driveway covered in branches

Climbing roses on a white brick garage. A soft and enchanting way to return home or leave for the day. Via Pinterest

Perfect black garage with trimmed ivy  via High Street Market

A well molded and perfectly shined black garage door. A single lantern atop the garage and a contrasting brick drive make for the epitome of chic driveways. Via High Street Market

Simple gravel driveway in this home by Windsor Smith

I said it once (or like 10,000 times) and I’ll say it again, gravel driveways are a symbol of classic elegance. Sounds weird, right?  But honestly, it couldn’t be more factual.  Forget your how they may ruin your Jimmy’s and focus on the understated richness and old world ambience they bring. Gwyneth Paltrow and Windsor Smith agree!

 

America, The Blue…tiful

I hope my last posts have inspired you to get some wanderlust and set some travel plans in motion. That said, there is no greater feeling than when the wheels are down on your homeland’s soil (wherever your homeland may be). For a majority of my readers, U.S.A. is neatly stamped on our return address. While it is important to explore, it is also crucial to realize just how precious it is to be born here, live here, and be a part of an exceptional nation.

Today, I want to share with you images of my beloved blue and white, with red mixed in. People often shy away from colors that look too holiday, but this combination has a sophistication and cultured flair that is often unexpected. So go and enjoy this special birthday celebration of our young country. May your days be filled with Life, Liberty, and The Pursuit of Happiness. Have a happy 4th!

XO TPB

Let Freedom Ring

Samantha Knapp via Lonny

Samantha Knapp’s bedside table with the perfect red, white, and blue prints. Via Lonny

Dining room by Kemble Interiors

A super chic red lacquered dining room with blue velvet chairs by Celerie Kemble. Via Elle Decor

A perfect mix of red, white, blue in this bedroom

A classically lined and streamlined designed red, white, and blue bedroom. So fresh! Via Pinterest

Blue white and red in teh home of Christopher Spitzmiller via AD

Featured recently on TPB, this bedroom is full of pattern, sheen, and glossy splashes of color. Christopher Spitzmiller is fantastic. Via AD

Charles Faudree designed bedroom in blue and white and red

Charles Faudree is the master of French country design. I have a true appreciation for his style.

Blue white and red sitting room by Alessandra Branca via AD

Alessandra Branca knows best with this light-filled, white clapboard mixed with subtle prints and bold solids. Via AD

Istanbul home via Veranda

This home of Serdar Gulgan Istanbul looks pretty patriotic to me. Obsessed with how effective the blue and white ginger jars look on top of the red coffee table. Perfection. Via Town & Country

Red white and blue room by Peter Pennoyer and Jeffrey Bilhuber via AD

Shades of blue and contrasting textures pop atop of the red oriental rug designed by Peter Pennoyer and Jeffrey Bilhuber. Via AD

red white and blue room in Sig Bergamin’s Manhattan apartment via Elle Decor

Red, white and blue living room in an array of patterns, textures, and rich design in Sig Bergamin’s Manhattan apartment. Via Elle Decor

Room by Alessandra Branca via AD

Another superb shot of the home designed by Alessandra Branca with her fantastic blue, white, and red design. How perfect is that chippendale red balcony?! Via AD

Get Your Hong Kong On

Only two hours by plane from Manila and yet so very different, Hong Kong is such a vibrant city with incredible energy and landscape. The people there were incredibly posh, you could barely walk a street corner without passing a perfectly polished woman holding a Birkin. Not even kidding, there is an Hermes epidemic (only the best kind to get). In this vast island, there was so much to do, so with the help of my Luxe City Guide app, my friend and I found our way to some of the chicest spots in all of Hong Kong.

I used the Luxe app which was able to allow me to add stores, restaurants, and leisure places (you must get a foot massage) to a list. Then Luxe can arrange the places in the direction and order that makes the most sense. We then were able to navigate around the city, following directions from one fabulous shop to the next. Below is an actual step by step list of the days that Luxe App created for thorough shopping, fine dining, and a bit of pampering. To keep things simple, I thought I would tell you what Luxe Loves and what The Potted Boxwood Loves about these inside spots around this royal city.

P.S. If you can’t make it to Hong Kong soon, read Kevin Kwan’s new book, China Rich Girlfriend.  It is a fun close second and a sensational summer read.

 

*All opinions are my own and please note this is not a sponsored post…I really do just love this app!

All Photos By Christina Dandar For The Potted Boxwood

click words for links

 

Stay: THE PENINSULA

Luxe Says: Ritzy old panoramic dolly boasting vintage decor accents, a fleet of Rolls Royces, helipad,chic indoor pool and harbour-view spa, plus refined Gallic Gaddi’s, Swiss cheese Chesa, slick Canto Spring Moon, view-tiful Felix bar and resto, and an ace afternoon cha.

The Potted Boxwood Says: A grand lobby full of fantastic people watching and gilded ceilings for days. A contrast from the lobby, the serene and private rooms shine in burled wood, marble, and provide a plush comfort of tranquility from the busy city. Go to Felix for great food, the views, and the loo.

The Penninsula Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Lobby of the Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong

The always active lobby.

The Peninsula Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong

Tea in a room at the Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong

Tea brought up to the room upon check-in.

Room Service at The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong

A well prepared room service.

Shop: LALA CURIO

Luxe Says: Parsons grad, Laura Cheung, channels trad Chinese motifs, plush texture and vibrant hues across her mod furry, upholstery, lighting, homeware, art range. NY loft meets trinket treasure trove.

The Potted Boxwood Says: You will want to move into this store that has the ideal mix of swank, class, and trend. Perfectly outfitted with beautiful fabrics, mink obi cushions, and a blue chinoiserie wall that you’ll be dreaming of for days. Plus, they are so nice they gave us an umbrella for the rain…which may have checked it’s way back to the states.

LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood  LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 2

LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood  4LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 3LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 5LALA Curio in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 6

 

Eat: MOTT 32

Luxe Says: Rough-luxe subterranean lair of show-stopping Chinoiserie-dappled design and meticulous mod Sino fare. Opt for a table on the main floor for maximum buzz.

The Potted Boxwood Says: A must go to place for a post-shopping lunch. Don’t expect to concentrate on your company, you will be too busy taking in the hanging calligraphy brushes, the blue and white porcelain on the walls, and the spectacularly hand-painted chinoiserie wallpaper. Oh, and if you don’t get the crispy pork buns, you haven’t lived.

Mott 32 for Dim Sum in Hong Kong via The Potted BoxwoodMott 32 in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Mott 32 restroom in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

It seems to me every bathroom I went to was photo worthy, this was no exception.

 

Shop: SHANGHAI TANG

Luxe Says: Oriental opulence, sensual silks, vibrant colors and stylish silhouettes abound at this bold bi-level manse.

The Potted Boxwood Says: You know you have gone overboard when you need to put things back. They have beautifully made silk pajamas, dresses that look so high-end it hurts, as well as perfume that smells so heavenly, cashmere that is made so delicately, and housewares that are full of such intense style. A colorful version of Barney’s that made my suitcase overweight and a fun vessel of presents.

Shanghai Tang in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Wallpaper in Shanghai Tang in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood.

The decor in the store was phenomenal.

custom dresses in Shanghai Tang in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood.

A custom dress room.

Home products at Shanghai Tang in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood.

Loved their blue and white, it even came in a phone cover.

Colorful home products at Shanghai Tang in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood.

 

Shop: SIN SIN

Luxe Says: Gorgeous, unique silver, jewellery, apparel art and accessories inspired by Sin Sin Man’s travels throughout the region, but it’s the fabrics that will have you ooh-ing.

The Potted Boxwood Says: Walk in from the rain and have a cup of tea with the stylish owner who will have you stripping down to your knickers to try on her lush silky shirts and pants. Off of a quiet street you walk into a contemporary clean downstairs and are quickly transported to a chicly collected upstairs full of  one-of-a-kind rings, scarfs, and make-up bags that will last you a lifetime.

Sin Sin in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Jewelry at Sin Sin in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

 

A unique collection of statement rings.

Eat: HO LEE FOOK

The name is exactly what you will say after eating here, with an added “that was good.” A newer restaurant that can have lines out the door, but a sweet friend persuaded for a table. While the entry is pretty spectacular, it is the delish and overly satisfying flavors that will leave you happy as can be.

Ho Le Fook restaurant in Hong Kong

Do: The Flower District

Leave your wallets at home. Start your day walking around the flower district smelling and observing bright colors and pops of pretty flowers peeking around every corner. I am envious I can’t frequent this more often, Dallas take note.

 

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 7

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 8

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 2

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 3

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 4

 

The Flower District in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 6

Shop: Jade and Pearl Markets

A one stop shop for gifting. Necklaces, calligraphy brushes, tassels, pearl studs, and jade for days. Just be careful putting on a piece of jade, it may never come off…be warned.

Jade district in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Dine/Drink: SEVVA

Luxe Says: Scene-sational aerie atop the Prince’s Building with a tremedous terrace, mind-bending wraparound vistas, blossoming decor and sinful desserts. Perfect for power-lunchers who want to impress.

The Potted Boxwood Says: While my friend and I were the only ones in the room without a Birkin and freshly blown-out hair (not remotely joking), we managed to take a comfy seat booth-side in a lavender dining room sparkling with chandeliers, champagne, and diamonds. The champagne and caviar pasta is not to be missed, neither is the display of desserts. Next major birthday, you can find me here.

Sevva Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 2

 

A perfect airy spot for afternoon tea. Sevva Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Cake at Sevva via The Potted Boxwood

Cakes at Sevva via The Potted Boxwood

Spa & Beauty: TEN FEET TALL

Luxe Says: For a marginally more luxe experience than your average HK reflexology dive, flop at this sweet retreat of lounge-worthy recliners and heavenly hoof rubs. Heads, paws, and bods get a serious pummelling too.

The Potted Boxwood Says: Walk in and don’t look back, Why Not? No literally, “Why Not.” It is the name of their heavenly, mind-altering massage where your head, neck, shoulders, and feet get massaged at the same time. Sip on some cucumber water and let your heart melt. Good thing I don’t live in HK, I would be here daily.

Ten Feet Tall Massage HK via The Potted Boxwood

Ten Feet Tall massage in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

Dine: CAFE GRAY DELUXE

Luxe Says: Dapper bronzed buck blessed with an “in” clique, twinkly views, raging bar and clever Kunz’s tidbits. Come for delightful high tea and lazy long lunches by day; dim-lit palate sensualism by night.

The Potted Boxwood Says: A perfect date night with lighting that could make Tevas look good. Drink some champs, have some oysters, and get the short ribs, and make it to the bathroom for some pretty great views.

The Upper House with Cafe Gray via The Potted Boxwood

Drink: THE CHINA CLUB

Luxe Says: Sir David Tang’s members-only 1930’s Shanghai joint features antique everything, from the furniture to the barmen, not to mention an unrivalled collection of Chinese art and literature. Take pre or posts in the Long Bar or on the twinkly roof terrace, then dine on the main floor or in one of the hushed private rooms. A good concierge will get you in, Jim.

The Potted Boxwood Says: A good concierge will indeed get you in, and the Peninsula did not disappoint. Walk through the doors and you’re not in your average country club. Give them your name and order champagne. While I could spend all day in the chinoiserie walls of the sophisticated little library, it is the terrace that will make you feel you own the city. Sweeping views and late night snooping made this a fun after dinner spot.

 

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 12

The lobby of The China Club. The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 3

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 11

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 14

The library. Colonial meets the orient.

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 9

Just look at that wallpaper and the spiral staircase.

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood6

These lamps were everywhere. They don’t make them like they used to…how timeless!

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 5

Expansive and lively views of Hong Kong.

The China Club in Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood 7

View of Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood

A city worth visiting. As my mom says, if you are going to do it, do it right. Luckily, Luxe made sure of that.

Streets of Hong Kong via The Potted Boxwood