November 28, 2012
•
Musings

“word to the wise” wednesday: thom filicia

To me, Americana has always been based on the way people in this country actually live.  There’s something rugged about it, something simple and clean, humble and restrained.  I love when things are humble.  I love when things are restrained.  I love when things are inspired by something fanciful, but they’re dialed back.  The idea of a reinvigorated, more relevant Americana excites me. … Things should make sense for where they are.

— Thom Filicia (House Beautiful, November 2012)

I adore Thom’s thoughts on American design.  Remember when I piped in on this same topic for HGTV.com?  The idea of fancy-but-dialed-back really captures what I try to do for many of my clients.  After all, children and overly formal spaces don’t usually co-exist — but children and chic spaces most certainly can … quite happily!

What epitomizes American design to you?

8 Comments

  • Tawna Allred
    Nov. 28, 2012
    Exactly as Thom says, yet I also think patina needs to be there, and some hot, crusty, homemade bread direct from the oven. It's never complete until there's fresh bread!
  • Ryan Di Salvo
    Nov. 28, 2012
    I loved that rope handrail the minute I saw it. And I couldn't agree more about the importance of texture. I'll have to get back to you on the American design question, that's a pretty big question to tackle in a few short sentences. A big question but a very significant one. Great post! -Ryan TheLifeandStyleGuild.com
  • Fashion-isha
    Nov. 29, 2012
    That rope handrail is totally original...love it! Have a great day! xo Sharon
  • Andrea May Hunter/Gatherer (@amayhuntgather)
    Nov. 29, 2012
    Traci, I first saw that rope handrail in the original Hollywood at Home in a small stairwell with cherry red carpeting. I agree that it needs that plain/fancy juxtaposition to be effective. By the way, how's that contest going? ;)
  • Donna @ A Designer’s Perspective
    Nov. 29, 2012
    Love the stairway and how Thom describes American beauty and design. I agree with him!!
  • Jennifer
    Dec. 01, 2012
    Great post Traci! I loved hearing Thom speak at High Point, definitely one of the highlights! Jennifer
  • Annie
    Dec. 04, 2012
    Love his designs so down to earth and classic
  • Katie
    Dec. 04, 2012
    I love the wall covering he selected!

Leave a Comment:

Your Name
Email (Not Published)
Comment