Earlier this year, I stumbled across part of a manuscript written by my grandmother on how to live a beautiful life by making the most of your home. She was a talented decorator whose talents were sought out across the world. She even decorated the offices and homes of the president of Condé Nast (to share a very timely reference!)
While, to the best of my knowledge, the book was never published, the lessons she shares in her manuscript are timeless. I’m so excited to share some of these with you.
My grandmother
The Dining Room, Part 1
A family birthday party at my grandparents’ house
When I think of the patina of beautiful wood, the gleam of silver, the sparkle of glassware, fresh flowers, the glow of candles and the aroma of wonderful food, I think of the dining room.
To me, the dining room is one of the most romantic rooms in the house. It is here that fond memories of family dinners, holidays, birthday parties and gatherings with friends come to mind and warm me with shared good times. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than preparing for one of these occasions. Weeks ahead I plan my guest list and menus and try to remember some particular food or allergy to certain foods my guests might have.
After I plan my menu, I plan my table theme. If it is a holiday or certain time of the year, I decorate the dining room accordingly. If it is no special occasion my imagination can go wild.
I seldom use a “centerpiece” as I used to years ago, agonizing over the proper container, colors of the flowers, etc. I now use porcelain figures combined with a series of bud vases scattered across the table.
I recently purchased a porcelain monkey band which were made by Meissen and Chelsea and arrange that around a mirrored plateau with flowered glass vases disbursed in between. Of course, I set this off with my wonderful Sheffield candelabra that I bought for a client years ago that I just couldn’t part with.
I use many pairs of candlesticks throughout my dining room and only use ivory colored candles. In fact, I buy them by the case and as a Christmas gift my children always receive several boxes to keep for their supplies.
When using candles be sure they are not lower than your eye level. There is nothing worse than looking across the table into flickering candle light. A good rule is to rest your elbow on the table with your hand straight up. The candle should be above that point.
In all my homes, I have never used a ceiling fixture. I prefer sconces. Many years ago at an auction I bid on four crystal sconces from a distance. When I had them in hand not only did I find them in perfect condition but also found them to be more beautiful than I imagined. They are some of my treasured possessions and when they glimmer slowly at night I remember the excitement of that purchase.
What an exceptional legacy - this brought tears to my eyes. I would have 1000% bought your grandmother’s book
Loved reading about your grandmother. I am moved, especially by how you honor her legacy.