Over the past month or so, I’ve developed a few new obsessions.  Having always been captivated by the world of fashion, I’ve recently taken on a new style.  The source of my inspiration has been derived from historical time periods, fashion, as well as my favorite TV show at the moment, Downton Abbey!

 

I haven’t started showing up to work in three piece suits or attending dinners in “white tie”, but, I’m enamored with the impeccable style and elegance of the well dressed men in this show.  The interiors of Highclere Castle, located in Newbury, West Berkshire UK, where Downton Abbey is filmed, has preserved the interiors of the home in their original states.  Each room shows perfect attention to detail, and is dripping with the finest gold and crystal objects.

 

The main drawing room remains perfectly intact since its last redecorating in 1895.  The walls are upholstered in antique French green silk damask.

 

Second on the  “current obsessions” list is The Luxe Series.  My good friend Jana introduced me to the series, and now Im hooked!  These novels, set at the turn of the century, are jam packed with page turning drama, as well as lavishly dressed “dandies” and debutantes of New York’s finest families.  Along with all that, you guessed it, descriptions of grand ball rooms and  interiors that scream wealth and high society status.  If you’re looking for a good old fashioned  scandal, pick up a copy!

 

 

So, after watching Downton Abbey and reading The Luxe Series, I found myself becoming bewitched with the male characters of these stories, and their luxurious surroundings.  Seeing as how the time period of these epic dramas occur during the turn of the century, I started asking myself how I could bring the same excitement and flare these stories and characters portray, to the present modern day.  The result has been a new found approach to a way of personal style and dress, as well as interior design.

When it comes to design, I love relating and drawing on fashion as a source of inspiration.  I’ve always believed that the only thing better than a well dressed man, is a well designed interior!

 

I’m in love with this home library.  It’s clean modern look with brightly colored books is fun and inviting.  The touches of “old world” style with the gilded clock and pair of globes adds just the right amount of a traditional element.

 

The stark contrast of black and white will forever be a classic.  It’s the perfect backdrop to add a touch of color to, no matter what your mood calls for.

 

 

Check out this great home office space.  The chrome edging on the desk and shelving units really make this built-in unique.  I’m really liking the use of yellow here too, and those fabulous marble obelisks with the gold bases!

The contrast that the spring chartreuse rug, bamboo chairs, and roman shade create against the dark finish of the book case is stunning here.  I love how the brightly colored books and solitary pink flower give this space a fun feel.  Books and flowers are two of my favorite accessories!

Who doesn’t love luscious chocolate brown?  This gorgeous cocoa colored headboard with square tufts and sconces adds  great texture.  The soothing corn flower blue adds a crisp contrast against the deep chocolate tones.

The color pallet in this living area is definitely exciting.  The orange mixed with the neutral tones feels so happy, and fun, while maintaining a sense of sophistication.   According to color psychology, orange is optimistic and uplifting, and rejuvenates our spirit.  I think it’s perfect for a family room!

I love any room that feels “royal”.  Rich velvets in royal hues of purple with accents of gold and red scream majestic drama!  Prince William could come walking around that corner at any minute (or at least we wish!)