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Today is the grand opening of 4 of Diane von Furstenberg's 20 newly designed rooms for the Claridge Hotel in London.  She has stayed in hotels all over the world and is known for her stylish yet practical aesthetic.  My problem?  I can't seem to find any pictures online!  And, sadly, I'm not quite able to hop a flight to London to see the rooms for myself.  Here's hoping the NY Times posts them tomorrow in their style section.  If any of you have come across pictures, please send a link my way. 
 
 
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Spring is feeling very far off.  While looking for cheerful inspiration as I plan out my new apartment, I came across these photos from a friend's online album from her visit to Provence.  What I love about the Provence style is that it combines the ease of rustic finishes with beautiful bright color.  I appreciate Sweedish/Gustavian design, but the ethereal quality it goes for can come off a little cold.  The combination of rich pigmented colors and warm neutrals is much more inviting to me.  Pretty popular with Van Gogh, too, as the cafe pictured here served as the inspiration for The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum.
 
 
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Ever watch those design shows and see those boards with pictures of furniture and fabric samples?  Those are known as concept boards and they're supposed to be a snapshot of the finished space.  So imagine my delight as a designer when I checked into the Holiday Inn down in Baltimore to see a one for the room where I was staying.
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I was intrigued by the concept board.  This did not look like the typical hotel room with 80's pastel artwork and polyester coverlets.  This looked, dare I say, chic.  Details like an upholstered headboard, chaise lounge, and Eames inspired office chair gave me hope. 
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It was a little cramped, as most hotel rooms can be, like there was a bit too much furniture for the space.  And I can't say I loved the sheer/ribbon drapery treatment.  The room overall, did give the impression of new, contemporary and stylish.  I'm not sure how well some of the details will hold up in 5 years (turquoise is kind of a "now" color") but those can be easily changed out.  The furniture, headboard and background choices will transition with time.  Overall, a very welcome surprise.