that White House
Yesterday was Presidents Day and let's be honest, there is nothing more presidential (and appropriate for an interior design blog) than the White House. With 35 bathrooms, 132 rooms, and 6 different levels there's no wonder why it was known as the "President's Palace" for so long. Since John Adams, every president has called the White House home, and since it's initial construction in 1792, their have been numerous renovations to keep up with it's ever changing residents.(1)
I find the whole thing incredibly fascinating. That this home- that's filled with such an immense history- is basically just part of the job description when you're elected president. It's like signing a four year lease for a home with no landlord and you actually get to renovate; because whose's going to say no to you? The people of America? It's just so interesting.
Now if I was first lady, or even president, I would definitely give some of those rooms a serious face lift. Don't get me wrong, no matter how modern and "hip" our president gets, I don't think the interior design style will every be anything less than purely traditional. However I think Jackie O hit the nail on the head when she decided to devote much of her time to create a "residence of elegance and charm" as well as "a museum of American history..." (2). Keeping with tradition but yet elevating the decor is exactly what the White House is all about.
Decades and numerous renovations later, the property still stands and is nothing less than the palace of America.
I found the transformation of the Blue Room the most fascinating by far. As you can see in the sketches and pictures above, this immense space has transformed completely since it's original installation. I'm sad though that the intricate navy and gold wall paper was taken down. It made such a statement and was a chic aspect of the space.
During my quest to find the best pictures of the White House, I also found these incredible pictures of the complete reconstruction during the Truman administration. During that time the White House was in such bad shape (as that point the building was nearly 150 years old) that something needed to be done. Congress and the powers at be considered demolishing the structure all together, but luckily Truman found it such an important part of American history that the exterior was kept in place. Check out all of the incredibly pictures HERE
forty-four
Good Morning & happy Monday/President's day my loves!
Is there really anything better than a Monday off? Got to love President's Day for that. But for those of you who didn't get and extra day in their weekend, here's a little inspiration boost to start off your Monday. Enjoy!
all of the above images are from various sources. get all the links & more @ssarahfinkss
neon lights
Let's be serious, black lights should be reserved for bouncers and bowling alleys. And aside from embarrassing Ross Geller's incredibly whitened teeth on an episode of Friends, no one should have a black light in their home. But there is a new lighting trend that I can certainly get on-board with: neon signs.
These quotes, phrases, or random brightly colored words are taking lighting to a decorative new level. Now, don't get me wrong, I know that neon lights are nothing new. They have been used in art work, restaurants, and (of course) bars around the world. But only recently have I seen the trend of incorporating these luminous pieces into the actual home appear. And in the right space, a brightly colored phrase or word can make all the difference. It makes a statement (literally).
Pairing a blank wall with your favorite phrase, customized to the color that works with the space, will give you an edgy detail that makes the space incredibly unique. Not to mention, these signs are basically just a cooler form of holiday lights, and who doesn't love holiday lights? So if you're looking for that out-of-the-frame idea to adorn your walls, look no further than the neon light trend.
(source)
*What would I make for my wall you ask? The word "Clearly" written in bright pink letters.