October 1, 2014

“word to the wise” wednesday: barbara barry

I design the room as a whole, with the end result in mind.  For me, this is the discipline of good, simple design.  … Have the end result in mind, stick to the plan, and don’t overdo it.  Simplicity is really the height of elegance, and style is all about confidence.  I don’t shop for “fabulous” things with a lot of personality.  A lot of decorators want “bang” in a room.  I want quiet.  I’m not one who cares at all about provenance or what’s fashionable.  I’m anti-fashionable.  … Anyway, if there’s too much fabulosity in a room, it’s in competition for the life that takes place there.

Barbara Barry (House Beautiful, December/January 2013)

I think this living room is fabulous … although the design is very quiet.  Most of the “interest,” if you will, is created by the artwork, the large indoor tree and the luxe fabrics.  The incredible light, views and architecture don’t hurt, either.

How do you define “fabulous?”

1 Comment

  • Diane
    Oct. 01, 2014
    This room is fabulous. I would also add to the exquisite fabrics, simplicity in form and beautiful artwork, well-curated accessories and something that tells a story about the owners i.e books in the library, family photos, items picked up on travels, heirloom china etc. Thanks for sharing.

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