Happy 2013

http://aubergeinn.ca

Wow! I can't believe that 2012 is over and 2013 is just beginning. It's been a great year at (BAD) Blog About Design and I'd like to thank all my fantastic readers for making it happen. We've launched a few new series this year like... Missing From Your Closet, Too Hot To Handle, Space's I'm Loving, Today's Must Have, Person of Influence, Hotel Design, Designer Crave, and recently our newest edition, Weekly Start Off! I'm thrilled that you each take a few moments out of your day to read (BAD). I have another exciting year filled with new series, and a continuing of the series you have come to love, inspiring spaces, architecture, art, fashion, and more giveaways! I'd love to hear what some of your ideas are for (BAD) in 2013? Is there a giveaway you'd like to see featured? A new series that you'd like to have started? You can leave your comments below or email me as always. My next post will come out on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Happy 2013!

--Brendan

Missing From Your Closet

(1) J.Crew Crystal Embellished Tweed Dress, (2) Bounkit Turquoise Double Button Earrings, (3) Peter Pilotto Ten Top, (4) Arfango High Heeled Sandals, (5) Carven A-Line Skirt, (6) Neon Beaded Skirt, (7) Alexander Wang Dumbo Clutch, (8) Peter Pilotto Print Scarf, (9) Oscar de la Renta Embellished Canvas and Leather Mules, (10) Jenna Lyons Closet

Room Spotlight: Entry Vestibule

http://www.architecturaldigest.com

Imagine opening your front door and being greeted by this phenomenally designed Kelly Wearstler entry vestibule. From the intricate design on the floors to the brass staircase and vintage pieces, this space is on a different level. Many of Wearstler's spaces are done with paneled walls, it makes the space feel warm and inviting and brings in that classic edge. The stair railing to the left is very unique. It looks like cloth gently draped. My favorite piece in the space is the center table. Wearstler uses parts of the human body sporadically in her spaces. The hand table is just so cool. When designing an entry vestibule always be sure to bring in some pieces that creates a 'wow' factor. You want your guests in awe from the moment they walk in. You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Weekly Start Off: No 4

http://pinterest.com

Happy Wednesday, December 26, 2012 readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas! It's been a hectic past few weeks and I am officially done. From present shopping to getting the house together for the holiday's, my life has been anything but, a sparkly fairytale! I'm really digging the above look photographed in Soho, NYC. The black leather jacket, shoes, subtle pink shirt and pants really compliment each other. And just to give that kick I always love neon pink studded bag! What do you think of the look? How was everyone's Christmas? Please, do share!

1. Speaking of sharing...My Christmas was a blast. I hosted on Christmas eve and Christmas day. One of my favorite traditions is the grab bag game. Each person brings a gift and puts it under the tree. Then they pick a number from a hat, the numbers range from zero to how ever many people are playing. Once everyone has a number, then I begin calling numbers starting with one. When your number is called you can either pick a gift from under the tree or steal a gift that is already out. It's so much fun stealing those gifts, I love seeing the reactions of friends and family who's gifts are stolen...so funny :) I got these cool bottle stoppers.  

2. One of the best part about Christmas is the gifts, and because my birthday is on Christmas eve I get to open even more, hehehe! I have been going a little nuts over books this year, and so I was pleasantly surprised to find a whole lot under the tree and as birthday presents. One of the my favorite books is The Art Book: New Edition. The book features an amazing collection of contemporary and traditional art works. From Picasso to De Vinci, as well as up and coming artists. It's such a must have!

3. What are your New Year's plans? Isn't so exciting, 2013 is around the corner! Well, I am sure that a night on the town or an evening with your closes friends and family will be taking place. You need to look your best! This dress will definitely turn heads on New Year's. I love sequins, and New Year's is the perfect excuse to wear them. Pair the dress with these metallic insert pumps for a statement. I love these shoes, and you're sure to get my uses out of them, as they will work with pretty much everything!

--Brendan

Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday's

Tommy Hilfiger

I decided to adopt the Tommy Hilfiger family "card" and make it my own. Aren't they all so stylish? Anyway--I'd like to take a few moments to wish all my readers a fantastic Christmas and Happy Holiday's. It's been a hectic last few weeks and I'm so happy that it's all winding down and I can finally spend some quality time with my wonderful family. On Christmas Eve, I'll be celebrating my birthday (don't worry how old I am!) It's going to be great to have my family over at my house celebrating both the holiday and my birthday. On Christmas day, I'm going to have even more family over. It's always so excited putting the finishing touches on all the preparations! I'll be back to blogging on the 26th! So between now and then, be sure to check out all the posts that you've missed. Where will you be spending your holiday?

--Brendan

Design Video: The Window Metropolis

http://www.strook.eu

Standing atop a tall scaffold, Belgium artist Strook, recently completed a window drawing titled "Metropolis" by simply using a white marker inside the Concertgebouw in Bruges, Belgium. What Strook did requires concentration, patience, and proper planning. (ABOVE) I just cannot imagine standing atop that scaffold and being able to focus on creating a work of art. I'd be way to freaked out, look at the drop! (BELOW) Be sure to watch the video in its entirety. In the video, you will see Strook hard at work completing his window drawing, you will also see the final product. It's a very intricate, cool piece. After you watch the video leave a comment letting me know what you think! 

Today's Must Have: Dec 19, 2012

Camilla Skovgaard Aqua Leather Sandal Wedges

How gorgeous are these Camilla Skovgaard Leather Wedges? And here's the best part--they're 70% off! Add a little color to your winter closet with these aqua colored wedges. The color is so BAD! They're casual, fun, and would look awesome if worn with a pair of skinny jeans and white T-shirt. The shoe can be easily taken on and off by simply unzipping at the heel. If you aren't familiar with Camilla Skovgaard, be sure to check out her website. Skovgaard is well known for her elaborate heels, that are often shaped into an unusual form. What do you think of these wedges?

Missing From Your Closet

(1) Catherine Malandrino Embroidered Tulle Dress, (2) Asha Else Studs, (3) De Hart Elena Jacket, (4) Gianvito Rossi Suede And PVC Pumps, (5) Etro Pleated Print Skirt, (6) Frill Jacket, (7) Diane von Furstenberg Lips Mini Metallic Clutch, (8) Peter Pilotto Damask Print Scarf, (9) Red Valentino Glitter Finish Lace Ups, (10) Jessica Alba Closet

Weekly Start Off: No 3

http://pinterest.com

Happy Monday, December 17, 2012 readers! I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! I am pleased to announce that I officially got my Christmas Tree! I spent all Sunday dressing it up and am very happy to finally be able to enter into the spirt of the season! On another note--how rockin' is the above look? The photograph was taken after the Haider Ackermann show. I love the that jacket! She looks so cool, and those motorcycles in the background tie together this great photo. This week give your looks a little edge. While everyone's got on their traditional holiday attire, you'll sport a little holiday rocker :)! 

1. What is holiday rocker you may ask? Well...I've found a few great pieces to give you some inspiration. First off--the jacket. I love this Haider Ackermann leather biker jacket. It's definitely taking holiday rocker to another level, but you can tone it down with a softer piece underneath. Next off, I choose these Jeffrey Campbell leather embellished pumps. The heel features a slight curve and for thirty-percent off it's a great piece. These pumps will give your look a little holiday rocker. Pair them with a great holiday solid colored knee length dress and you've got a little class, and a little sass (I know that sounds corny)! 

2. If you're in New York City over the holiday's, then I suggest checking out the Barneys window display. Disney took over their window displays and it's a fun, festive way to spend some time. Who wouldn't want to see Minnie Mouse strutting her stuff down the runway?  

3. On to some last minute gifts. Nordstrom has a great list of gifts, all under $100 for you, your loved one, etc. The best part is they offer free shipping and returns, and if you order your gift between now and Dec 21, they guarantee it'll be here in time for Christmas! If you're a fan of Pantone colors as much as I am, then this Pantone iPhone case is a great holiday gift for you! It comes in several different Pantone colors and really gives your iPhone a pop of color. Something iPhone's REALLY need! 

--Brendan

The Cassette Series

http://www.benoitjammes.com/

How awesome is Benoit Jammes's Cassette Series? When I first stumbled across it, I just knew I had to share it with you all! What a clever way of reusing your old cassettes. (ABOVE) A work of art inside a work of art? I can definitely see the nod to Mondrian in this piece. I love the velvet rope protecting the piece, how cute! (BELOW 1) A little bling for your cassette? This cassette has all the right style. Decked out in gold, with a perfect crown necklace. Is that a velvet backdrop I see? (BELOW 2) Some cassettes just love to day dream! What makes this cassette so interesting is that Jammes expanded it. Instead of just painting the cassette and adding a few shapes around, James turned the cassette into an actual cloud. (BELOW 3) Uh? Some cassettes like to have a little too much fun? I nearly died of laughter when I saw this piece. Very creative! What do you think of Benoit Jammes's pieces? 

http://www.benoitjammes.com/
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Historic French Country Estate

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

Located in Perigord, France on over 150 acres of land, this estate is stunning. Each building set on the large property has so much character and architectural significance. The French Cottage design is very fitting. (ABOVE) This aerial view of the home and the property shows the wonderful landscaping and position of the structures. I love the look of the hedge garden to the left. (BELOW 1) The front facade of the house has so much details. I love the look of the old slate roof and stone. The ivy growing on the side of the wall softens the structure. (BELOW 2) The estate features a large swimming pool. How gorgeous is the pool deck tiling? You can tell that the structure around the pool was built at a different time, as it has a different colored roof and darker front stone. (BELOW 3) This little alcove located on the grounds features old stone walls and ceilings. The beautiful wall carve outs and arched doorways add so much character. What a great space architecturally. What do you think about the estate?

http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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Room Spotlight: Simple, Retro, Industrial

http://www.robertstilin.com/

Designer Robert Stilin is known for his clean design approach and subtle retro touches. I am a fan of this space, designed by Stilin in NYC. It's uncluttered, but does not feel like a minimalist box. The bold graphic art pieces add much flavor to the neutral walls. The retro arm chair to the left, gives the space a conversation piece, and the industrial coffee table and stool add an urban kick. All three of these pieces come from different time periods and are different design styles, but work simultaneously in this space. The area rug brings texture and warmth into the space. Try placing your hand over the rug. Without it, the spaces feels far less inviting. What do you think of the space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Missing From Your Closet

(1) Roksanda Ilincic Crepe Wool Dress, (2) Erickson Beamon Bette Davis Triple Crystal Earrings, (3) MM6 By Maison Martin Margiela Print T-Shirt, (4) Christian Louboutin Embellished Snake Sandals, (5) Burberry Prorsum Suede Pencil Skirt, (6) Retro Dress, (7) Loeffler Randall The Colorblock Lock Clutch, (8) Athena Procopiou L'Alhambra Scarf, (9) Valentino Embellished Suede Loafers, (10) Leigh Lezark Closet

Weekly Start Off: No 2

http://blog.bergdorfgoodman.com

Happy Monday, December 10, 2012 readers! How are everyone's holiday 2012 preparations going? As Christmas is only 2 weeks away, I'm starting to panic that I still don't have a Christmas tree! Usually I try getting my tree the second week of December. This year, I'm hosting family for Christmas and I've been so busy with all the other preparations I haven't had time. When do you usually get your Christmas tree? 

1. This year, Bergdorf Goodman has really made a glamorous window statement. The inspiration for their holiday windows was the classic Art-Deco style of the 1930s and the glamour of Hollywood. The windows highlight the beauty of old world American style. Each window is packed with impeccable details found both in the built set and wonderful clothing pieces. How intricate and gorgeous are the dresses above? 

2. Speaking of fashion, I found this great holiday dress. A holiday dress should be both classic and simple. I love this dress as it's perfect for any type of holiday get together. And if you find it to be too formal a sweater can be worn over it. Love it or hate it?

3. I found these cute Juicy Couture faux fur headphones. I think they are the perfect gift for the holiday's! They come in multiple colors and can be plugged into your iPod, iPad, and whatever "i" you or the person getting them have! Plus, they'll keep you warm when you are out and about. What do you think?

--Brendan

Too Hot To Handle: Earrings

(1) Marni Brass And Blue Gem Ink Earrings, (2) Tom Binns Veil Of Shadows Earrings, (3) Tom Binns Crystal Madame Dumont Earrings, (4) Dannijo Gold And Swarovski Handmade Karlie Earrings, (5) Pamela Love Bronze And Turquoise Spike Drop Earring

Design Video: Fall In Central Park

"Fall" was shot by Jamie Scott in New York City's, Central Park. During the fall Central Park is an absolutely stunning place to visit. The tall buildings set the perfect backdrop for the beautiful, colorful, sea of trees. According to Scott, Scott "choose 15 locations in the park and revisited them 2 days a week for six months, recording all camera positions and lens information to create consistency in the images. All shots were taken just after sunrise." I think Scott did a wonderful job shooting and editing the video. There is a wonderful flow and beauty to his work. What do you think of Jamie Scott's work? 

The Square Box, Pyramid Structures

© Alejo Bague

Designed by the OAB in 2010, these wonderful, interesting structures, located in Spain are something I've never seen before. The architecture is bold, simple, and very sculptural. The community is economically and environmentally friendly. (ABOVE) A pathway connects the structures. The community features a school, central dining area, and bedroom house. The trees soften the structures. The trees are modern, like the structures. Very thin and simple! (BELOW 1) The facade of the structure is uncluttered of architectural details. Simple cutouts for the windows and a solid muted color. (BELOW 2) When I look at these structures, Egypt and the great pyramids come to mind. Even though these structures are far less grand and much less detailed, they still follow a similar design with their pitched roof. (BELOW 3) The structures are perched up on wood platforms. This prevents flooding and from standing on a cold floor. What do you think of this community designed by OAB? 

© Alejo Bague
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© Alejo Bague
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© Alejo Bague
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