I spent the last week in Paris and it was a glorious celebration of spring. I adored the Jardin du Luxembourg in particular - the sculpted trees and the muted gravel paths served as a counterpoint to the exuberant pink and coral blossoms and the surprising exclamation points of palm trees. So this week we are going to talk about landscaping, spring parades and outdoor style.
For new subscribers, in this weekly newsletter I share my top picks for the week - trends or particularly noteworthy design. Each week I share an interior, a real estate listing and a style item that I think are special. I hope you'll let me know what you think!
1] Handpicked: INTERIOR (OR RATHER, EXTERIOR)
I first saw Matthew Cunningham’s work in Little Compton and was blown away by how fresh and organic it was, but also unobtrusive and serene. I love that there is always a play between light and dark, hardscape and soft plantings. I particularly love the use of lavender, which gives a nod to French fields and a whisper of color in the starker New England palette of greys and greens.
This house is a collaboration with architect Gail Goff, and the stonework and pool surround are just breathtaking.
And then I later saw this stonework installation. It seems like such a simple idea - but I have not seen a pattern like this before. It is modern and linear, but yet timeless and whimsical at the same time.
I adore the varying depths of the granite here - so interesting and unexpected. If you didn’t think landscaping was inspiring, I promise you will. Give him a follow and just salivate over all those pools.
2) Handpicked: REAL ESTATE
There is no more special street in spring than Monument Street in Concord, MA. But in Concord they DO IT UP - full Revolutionary War reenactments (cannons and more cannons at the North Bridge!), a parade with Minutemen from surrounding towns, a marching band with plenty of fife and drum. One of the most special memories I have of living on Monument Street in Concord was watching the parade march by our home - such a celebration of history, community and the legacy of freedom. So, when you have the opportunity to live on Monument Street, you snatch it up.
This adorable cottage is steps to the town center and set on a rise. It needs a new kitchen and at least one additional bath. But the gingerbread details on the porch, the Nantucket-style details (beadboard and built-in beds) and the yard with a picket fence make it simply charming.
3) Handpicked: STYLE
Before my trip to Paris I gave some serious consideration to footwear as I knew I would be walking a million steps. So of course that meant - what shoes will I wear that qualify as “Parisian chic”? I have loved Coclico since I first spotted Joanna Gaines with a pair of their wedges in her first season of Fixer Upper.
For Paris I chose the Gentian flat from the Transitional Collection that I had had my eyes on for a while. Comfortable, and goes with trousers or a dress:
For spring I also love the Epic Pump (I wear heels a lot with tailored pants):
And as we look to those warmer evenings, with the heady smell of even more gorgeous flowers, the Dipper Wedge would be just perfect.
Next week I'll share more about my Paris trip and what inspired me!
That's all from our team this week - can't wait until next week!