George Stacey and the Creation of American Chic

George Stacey and the Creation of American Chic

by Maureen Footer

Forward by Mario Buatta

Published by Rizzoli New York  

Much more than an Interior Design book for the discerning collector, this author delves into the life and times of Mr. Stacey. A gentleman, reserved by nature who did not need to promote himself or his interior design business. Referrals  came one after another, often finding himself  designing multiple homes for many clients.

Diana Vreeland in the Entrance Hall of her Park Avenue residence designed by George Stacey.

Vreeland was not only a client, as editor, she arranged photo shoots for Vogue Magazine in many of the homes he designed. The fact that Stacey was so welcomed into her and other wealthy client's circle of friends spoke for his character and the loyalty of his clientele. Billy Baldwin dubbed him "The King of Decorators" and Statesman Averill Harriman gave Stacey the nickname "Minister of the interior".

The Master Bedroom for Frances Cheney at her Park Avenue Duplex

Stacey became the master at mixing fine antiques, coromandel screens, and gilt mirrors  with urn lamps, wicker chairs and basketry (he was an antique dealer for some years) Using saturated colors sublimely, symmetry and shimmer, it was indeed  "Cafe Society Chic".  Designers who have cited his influence include, Mario Buatta , Billy Baldwin, Michael Taylor, Stephen Sills, Tom Scheerer and Nick Olsen among them. 

Stacey became long time friends of his clients both Grace Kelly at her first  Fifth Avenue, NYC apartment and and with her and Prince Rainier at The Palais Princier in Monaco

How many designers can transform a former chicken coop into this luxurious yet relaxed abode. ( he was the first to mix it up in this manner) Crystal chandelier, luxurious fabrics and antiques live comfortably together with a laid brick floor!

The  talented Author and esteemed Interior Designer Maureen Footer

Maureen with Min Hogg (founder of The World of Interiors) at the recent British Launch party for her book  at Nicky Haslam's flat. Image via EEE

You will want to add this to your library and can purchase George Stacey and the Creation of American Chic at Amazon It is a fascinating story of an icon in American design.

Also be sure to visit visit Maureen Footer Design

Copy and images courtesy of Maureen Footer

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Karena

The Arts by Karena

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Scalamandre Haute Decor and a Fabulous Holiday Gift

I recently had the pleasure of attending a Holiday Open House at Designers Only here in Kansas City. Steven Stolman, the president of Scalamandre was the featured guest, signing his new book, Scalamandre Haute Decor.

In his book, which was a year in the making, Mr. Stolman takes us through the history of Scalamandre. There is a multitude of founder Franco Scalamandre's correspondence saved in the company archives. It includes letters from the era's top designers and heads of major department stores. 

A table at Kansas City's "Dining by Design" to benefit DIFFA, Katy Sullivan uses  Lenox Zebra China and shows a gallery of Scalamandre Fabric patterns.

This fascinating book includes hundreds of images featuring  Scalamandre's luxurious fabrics, wallcoverings, and trims that both Interior Designers and their clients crave for their interiors. 

The Hudson Valley estate  of Architect and Interior Design Alison Spear. Her  sofas are covered in "Falk Manor House" jacquard velvet.

Mario Buatta uses the Scalamandre iconic "Resist" print to perfection in this New Jersey living room.

Scalamandre designed numerous fabrics, wallcoverings, trims and even rugs for many rooms of importance in our Nation's White House, including the Kennedy Blue Room.

One of Scalamandre's most coveted Chinoiserie prints, "Shanghai".

Joye Adamson, the showroom manager of Designers Only, The source for Interior Designers.

Steven Stolman, President of Scalamandre divides his time between homes in Florida, New York, and Wisconsin.

Scalamandre "Zebra" Silk Scarf"

Scalamandre has generously offered one of their "Zebra" silk scarves as a giveaway to my readers. Their website offers a varieties of accessories, from pillows and totes to pet beds and ottomans. This gorgeous silk  scarf is valued at $200 and is a 36 inch square.

To enter please follow The Arts by Karena either via Google+ or or email subscription and for an extra entry, on Pinterest.

The winner will be chosen on Thursday December 23rd at midnight EST.

Thank you to my friends and followers who so generously support The Arts.

xoxo

Karena

The Arts by Karena