Dunes and Duchess

Dunes and Duchess

 Dunes and Duchess

One of my very favorite stylists (and people), Stacy Kunstel, along with her partner--photographer Michael Partenio,  introduces a new venture.  Along with continuing very busy careers, they are launching a lovely new line of home accessories.  I didn't make it to the New York Gift Show this week, but sure wish I had, just to stop in and let Stacy know how much I love their beautiful candelabras.

Dunes and Duchess

Dunes and Duchess

Stacy was instrumental in getting my Hollis home published in the premiere issue of NH Home Magazine.  (If you click on the link, those that know the home will see that it is still used in the banner)  It was a great shoot and one that brought me many new clients.  Happily the relationship continues, NH Home will be here to shoot my Portsmouth home in a couple of weeks.   Stacy will also be with me to style my home for an upcoming issue of Country Living.  I'm lucky and I know it..  Stacy has an unerring eye for all things lovely.  She is an extraordinary talent and extraordinarily beautiful. 


It is with deep pleasure that I have been following their new blog, Dunes and Duchess which starts with a love story--love of a new partner (Michael), love of a new house, and love of life and beauty in general.  It is a hopeful story and I am a fan.  I will be following just to keep track of Michael's lovely images and to see what this talented couple continues to bring to the world of tasteful design.  Great job you two--and best of luck!

color, glorious color

Some of you know that I just returned from a trip to Guatemala where I was cooking at a writer's workshop on beautiful lake Atitlan.  I arrived back in New Hampshire early Monday morning.  The day was gray and I was struck by the absence of all of the color that had surrounded me for the past couple of weeks.  This post will be mostly photos-- a feast of color for all of us that are slogging through the drab days of late winter.

view from the porch

entrance from dock

end of the day

my bedroom up in the peak

views from my bed

housekeeping day--I was so touched that the housekeeper had placed my glasses carefully beneath my books--pretty sweet

view from the shower

from my room

market day

Danny painting from the deck of his room

beautiful flowers

kitchen scenes and Danny's postcard paintings

local boys at play

attendees arriving in the pouring rain

Lisa and Joyce

It is nice to be home, but I have to say that spring can not come quickly enough!

out with the old...

...and in with the new--even if it's scarey.

So it's official--well almost, and practically a certainty unless things really fall apart, which of course they could, and often do--

I have a sales agreement on the  Nashua studio.  Those of you that have visited know what a remarkable space it is.  I have been lucky to have owned it for the last six years drawing from the great creative spirit of the place. We have held workshop after workshop, and so many wonderful people have shared time with me there.  But keeping a studio that is over 70 miles from my new home is logistically difficult and certainly not very green.  So....

 I am moving--and this is almost official as well--and this space is mere steps from my home.  I will be renting the space on the left side.  There are large windows, creative space, and a kitchen--those of you who have taken our workshops know how important food--in particular, chocolate--is to the energy of the class.  The space is only 1/3 the size of my current studio, but there is plenty of room to teach American Clay and all of the other workshops we offer.  The new studio is in Portsmouth NH, which just bustles with creative energy.  I am looking forward to getting through this next phase and working to become a part of this vibrant community.

And so when....?

 Well, right after I return from yet another dream trip--I am so unbelievably fortunate to be heading to Lake Atitlan, Guatemala to act as an assistant cook at a writer's workshop.  I will be assisting my dear friend and very talented artist, Daniel Thibeault.

The above painting is one of Dan's.  More of his work can be  viewed here.  His beautiful home can also be viewed in the latest addition of Country Living.


I will return in early March just in time to close on the studio and start working on the new space.  Spring will be near and I will look forward to inviting you all to view the new space once I settle in.

Happy New Year.  Wishing all a healthy and happy 2010.

PS--Below are two links to charities involved in relief work in Haiti.  My heart goes out to all that are suffering through this unimaginable crisis.  Blessings to those who are able to help.
Mercy Corps
IRC

getting home design.....

I was honored to be featured recently under the "what's hot" section of this great new design resource getting home design.  The founders, John Altobello and Phillip Clendaniel are constantly updating the site bringing forth  fabulous product and design ideas.  I'm thrilled to have another wonderful resource to peruse and enjoy.  Check them out!