Miller Time Pt. 1

Architecture
February 5, 2014

There are those triumphs of architecture that regardless of their vintage still manage to seem fresh and modern. The Miller House, in Columbus, Indiana is one of them. Commissioned in 1952 by the late industrialist J. Irwin Miller, and designed by the famed Eero Saarinen with interiors by Alexander Girard, the house is a true modernist monument. The house is awash in bright colors, lustrous finishes, brass legs and tulip chairs – and that is without even discussing the architecture. Both the building and its interiors contain design gems that we can easily take cues from today. And did I mention that sunken seating area? Whoa.In 2011, the Miller House was opened to the public. This is just one of the many indications that the preservation community is making a concerted effort to preserve the recent past.

Photos via Dwell Magazine

Nordic in Nantes

Architecture
January 30, 2014

Eighteenth century chateau near Nantes, France as seen in the January 2014 issue of Elle Decoration UK. The interior decoration of this well preserved and beautifully maintained chateau is quite minimalist. I cannot emphasize enough how much I appreciate minimal decor in an historic structure when the architectural details of the building provide ample decoration. In previous posts where I have highlighted my fanaticism for allowing an historic building to “speak for itself,” the furnishings have always been extremely modern. This chateau, however, is decorated with beautiful nordic antiques and a typically scandinavian color palatte that allow the architectural details to come alive. The only very modern piece of the chateau is the kitchen, which follows that favorite of preservation philosophies of making 21st century updates to a property with very little impact. This kitchen looks as if it could simply be removed, and the room would be transported back to its 18th century state.

Photos via Elle Decoration UK January 2014 issue

Downton Cravings

Architecture
January 27, 2014

ECH 18-19 — Kentchurch Court, Herefordshire c. 14th century, w/ renovations throughout 17th, 18th, & 19th centuries

Monday mornings always have me waking up still thinking about the previous night’s episode of Downton Abbey. It is so easy to get lost in those characters, the time period, and in Highclere Castle. Throughout the week I find myself pining for Downton and its characters, and Sunday cannot come soon enough. However, I have found a solution for all the insatiable Downton fanatics, something to peruse and study throughout the week that helps keep the Downton cravings at bay.

The English Country House. Written by James Peill with a foreward by the creator of Downton Abbey, Julian Fellowes, this book has been wonderful to look at and to read, especially on Mondays when I realize I have to wait an entire week to go back to Downton. The book features photos and histories of ten country houses throughout Great Britain, all which are still privately owned. Available at Barnes & Noble here and Amazon.com here, this book provides a look into the world of the english country house like none I have ever seen.