Villa Necchi, A Must See/Do in Milan
Ciao from a rainy morning in Rome.
I know I said I was going to write on this here blog more often but work this year has been very hectic. Perhaps things will slow down during Spring '22! I'm not complaining as these are good problems to have, especially during these strange pandemic times.
I went to Milan last week, just overnight, for the Salone. The energy in Milan was incredible. I felt safe going to showrooms and events as there were Covid protocols in place. Milan and the surrounding area were hit hard last year and no one wants to return to a lockdown.
I'm writing this while still on a Design Week high. I went to Milan in July for work and I was finally able to visit this palazzo. It has been on my list for ages and seeing the movie IO SONO AMORE/I AM LOVE only added fuel to my desire. The full name is Villa Necchi Campiglio but most know it as Villa Necchi.
Villa Necchi was designed and built by architect Piero Portaluppi from 1932 -1935 for the owner of the Necchi company, Angelo Campiglio, his wife Gigina and his sister-in-law, Nedda. There were some modifications and additions added by Architect Tomaso Buzzi after WWII. His style was a bit more traditional and you can see the difference as you walk through the villa. The villa was occupied by the fascists during the war and the family called Architect Buzzi once they were able to finally return to their home.
It took my breath away and pictures do not do it justice. It's amazing to see how modern these rooms from the early 20th century look and feel! It takes serious talent to design spaces that are classic yet contemporary. Portaluppi and his clients were truly ahead of their time. The Necchis entertained often and the house's public areas layout reflect this. This house was THE place to be back in the day.
The family had no children and instead donated their home to the non-profit FAI, the Italian National Trust.
The home has a large private garden with a swimming pool and tennis courts. Remember this is in the center of a large city! The villa is also filled with art, mostly 18th century, including artists Canaletto, Marieschi, and Tiepolo.
Look at the ceiling in the library! That design is a Portaluppi signature and you see it employed discreetly through out the villa.
I won't say anything to spoil the film for those who haven't seen it yet but one of the most important scenes in the movie takes place in this location.
The bathrooms were to die for. Again, I couldn't believe there were built in the 1930s. The veranda was another favorite room. The furniture was original and I could see those pieces being sold today. Even the utility rooms were design heaven. The Necchi family had custom Richard Ginori dinner service. I love the design of the "C" logo.
Style/fashion lovers will get a kick out of the sisters' built-in closets. The custom pieces from Gucci, Ferragamo, and Hermès are gorgeous. Quality and design like that never goes out of style.
The guides were very helpful, bilingual and there were two or three on each floor. I cannot recommend visiting this gem enough. My pictures and videos from this fantastic tour are in my Instagram highlights.
Buon weekend!
All villa photos: Giorgio Majno, © FAI — Fondo Ambiente Italiano
Life in Rome - Aperitivi at the Beach
Ciao Bloggisti,How's the summer treating you so far?As I wrote in my previous post, I'm trying to improve my attitude and to be more social. My friend Courtney and I had plans to meet for aperitivi on Saturday. Instead of dealing with crowds in the Historic Center on a hot Saturday evening, I suggested we go to the beach. We went to Singita in Fregene. It was fantastic!Sometimes we forget that Rome is so close to the sea. By going for aperitivi instead of lunch or dinner, we would miss beach traffic in both directions.It was just what the doctor ordered. Nice breeze, great drinks, and a beautiful sunset. We started out with non-alcoholic drinks and then switched to a mojito. 
Photos: Me and my iPhone.
Weekend Inspiration - Frame Denim - NYFW f/w 2015
I was feeling the '70s vibe during New York Fashion Week. I'm curious to what London, Paris, and Milan will bring to the runway.While there were some truly horrific get-ups in the '70s, it's one of my favorite fashion decades. Some of the silhouettes were so chic, sexy, and timeless.A few years ago I went to the Helmut Newton exhibit. One thing that stood out at me was how the dated the clothes from the '80s were but the clothes from the '70s could be worn today.I'm too short for some of these pieces but this collection from newish label Frame Demin is fantastic.
Suddenly, I must listen to THE LAST DAYS OF DISCO soundtrack. Buon weekend!
Weekend Inspiration - Chocolate from SAID dal 1923
I was in the San Lorenzo neighborhood the other day and had to stop by SAID to pick up some chocolate.I'm more of a Swedish Fish, Jelly Bellys, and Gummy Bears type person but I do appreciate delicious chocolate, especially when it's so pretty.
Buon weekend and Happy Valentine's Day.
Weekend Inspiration - Garance Doré Studio at the NYC Ballet
I've always loved ballet but have never taken a class. I thought I was too short. The only dance class I've taken was modern dance in college.Lately, I've been thinking about signing up for classes. So what if I'm only 5.2"? I have several friends who are taking adult ballet classes and they rave about them.I play tennis and have played sports all my life. I need to mix things up a bit, especially as I get older. I've tried yoga and ripped a tendon in my wrist probably because I was incapable of focusing on the task at hand. It was a very painful injury. During yoga classes my mind was always racing, thinking about all the things I had to to do. I could never relax. I had the same issues when I tried Pilates.Perhaps ballet is the way to go. It combines athleticism with art, balance, agility, endurance, and mental focus. We'll see what happens.When I woke up this morning and saw Garance's latest post, I had to send it to my ballet-loving friends immediately. The Studio was invited to visit the New York City Ballet as they prepared for the opening night of their winter season.
These intimate photos are so beautiful and inspiring. To see more, click on to Garance's blog HERE.Buon weekend!
Weekend Inspiration - Freedom of Expression
The one-two punch of the SONY hack from a few weeks ago and the terrorist attack in Paris on Wednesday, is a clear reminder that the right to express oneself is very important in a modern society. This is a bigger issue than a comedy or a cartoon.Without freedom of expression, democracy cannot exist.Last night, on my way home, I walked through Piazza Farnese where the French Embassy is located in Rome. I have been in this building several times, mostly to vote. I saw many employees, neighbors, and French expatriates gathered in the square holding candles. The entire square was packed. It was somber but moving.
Buon weekend a tutti.
Hello 2015!
One of my friends asked me what my word is for 2015. Another asked about my resolutions. I've given both a great deal of thought.What I really need to do in 2015 is stop being a control freak. I'm driving myself (and my friends) crazy. While it's a good thing (especially in a detail orientated profession) to be very organized, I need to take it down a notch, okay, several.I'm not sure how I will achieve this goal but at least I have acknowledged this critical situation.So far 2015 is off to a great start. Yes, I do realize we're only two days in.Happy New Year!
Fireworks outside my window.
Pienza, Tuscany. La Bandita Townhouse.
Weekend Inspiration - All of the Lights - Campo de' Fiori
For me the day after Thanksgiving has nothing to do with shopping. It means I can start playing Christmas carols.This probably comes as a shock to people who don't know me well, as I appear to be a person who loves to shop. It's even part of my job.However, the whole Black Friday thing always left a bad taste in my mouth. While Short Hills Mall is one of my favorite places in America, I'd rather listen to Izzy Azalea on a continuous loop than go there on the day after Thanksgiving.We don't have such a thing in Italy and I don't see it happening anytime soon. The concept of standing/waiting in line is completely foreign, even in places (like the post office) where we're supposed to.One thing that is also popular here, are street lights. This week crews were putting them up all over town.In my neighborhood, Campo de Fiori, we have these:
I adore the simplicity of them.Now, I'm off to play some of my favorite holiday jams.Buon weekend!
Weekend Inspiration - Halloween
Halloween is a big deal in the States. Here in Italy, we are starting to see more and more decorations but it's a three day holiday weekend, All Saints Day and All Souls Day.I have carved my share of pumpkins and ate my share of Halloween candy. I don't care what anyone says, candy corn should not be classified as a candy!Perhaps I could ask one my friends who works at the American Embassy if the commissary sells Charleston Chews. All of a sudden I have a craving for one today. In the meantime, I will buy a few mini-pumpkins to decorate my table.Leave it to Ms. Martha Stewart to take it to the next level with her squash version.
Photo: Martha Stewart
Buon weekend a tutti!
Weekend Inspiration - Foliage - Hudson River Valley
Suddenly, Fall has arrived in Rome.On Sunday my friends were swimming at the beach. Monday was a Bermuda shorts day. Tuesday? The temperature dropped by 20 degrees (F).This morning the air was very clear and crisp. I think I need to bake an apple crumble.The leaves are started to drop along the Tiber River. The chestnut vendors are actually selling chestnuts now. They started weeks ago but nobody wanted to buy hot chestnuts when it was 85 degrees out.One thing I loved about growing up on the East Coast, was the change in seasons. Our town had a LOT of trees and many of them were in our backyard. It wasn't so fun to rake them but we did enjoy jumping into the piles.The last two weeks of October is best time to drive up to the Hudson River Valley to check out the leaves.The reds and oranges in this photo are gorgeous.
Photo: Eric/Flickr Commons
Buon weekend a tutti!
Weekend Inspiration - Spain via Sicily by Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabbana have been knocking it out of the park.I did read one review from a UK fashion critic who complained that D&G were tapping the Sicilian well too often. She was RELIEVED to see that their S/S 2015 was influenced by Spain.Hello, Spain ruled Sicily from 1516-1713. This is still a Sicilian inspired collection.There were a lot of bold red dresses and fitted black ones, but this black and white dress is one of my favorites. Of course, I could never wear it as I'm too short and my breasts are too big. But I love it.The trim is beautiful. I could see using something like it in home décor as well.
Photo: Dolce & Gabbana
Buon weekend a tutti!
Weekend Inspiration - Mosaics - Carolina Herrera
As always, one of my favorite shows from this week's NYFW Spring 2015 was Carolina Herrera's.She somehow makes classic clothes that are fresh, not dated or matronly.To see photos from her collection, check out Tom and Lorenzo.I've been looking at mosaics tiles for a client's potential bathroom renovation.I'm curious to know the influence for this dress. How is it constructed? Where would one wear a dress like this? On the red carpet? Or perhaps it would be prefect for a fashion-forward bride at her high-end outdoor wedding in a French or Italian villa.
Buon weekend a tutti!
Weekend Inspiration - Muriel Brandolini's Pool - Hamptons, NY
I wonder if we could re-set this week.Every time I turned on the news in the morning before my workout, there was some horrific, sad, or tragic breaking news.I had to look at something relaxing and beautiful. A picture of interior designer Muriel Brandolini's pool, featured in Architectural Digest was just what I needed.When I read the issue, this page jumped out at me. How stunning is this pool?
I don't swim (long story) but I could see myself enjoying the pool and the views.It's important to be informed about what is happening in the world. We must also remember to appreciate beauty in the world as well.Buon Ferragosto!
Weekend Inspiration - Starburst Textile - Peter Dunham
Continuing with the Peter Dunham theme, this weekend's inspiration is his Starburst print. This hand-printed fabric would be perfect in a beach house.
Photo: Peter Dunham Textiles
Speaking of beach houses, I wish I were going to one this weekend!Buon weekend a tutti.
Weekend Inspiration - Borromini - Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza
I see the top of this church every time I walk across the piazza near my house. Built from 1642-1660, it's a classic work of Baroque architecture. The architect was Francesco Borromini, aka arch enemy of Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
Photo: me with my iPhone
While I am down for Bernini, it's unfortunate that Borromini is not appreciated more. His contemporaries were perceived as being stronger visual artists. Borromini's strength was more technical but that doesn't mean we should overlook the beauty of his buildings.Borromini was extremely difficult to work with and often depressed. He committed suicide in 1667.This church is just one of his masterpieces and it inspires me.Buon weekend!
Weekend Inspiration - Yellow and Blue - CuisinArt, Anguilla BWI
The island of St. Martin is in the background
How pretty is this yellow and blue? I was having lunch at the CuisinArt hotel in Anguilla and had to snap this picture.Yellow can be a difficult color to work with but I hope to use it in my beach house project.Buon Weekend a tutti!
Weekend Inspiration - Roses - Rome, Italy
One of my favorite spots in Rome is finally opened.If you plan to be in Rome before June 15th, I highly recommend a visit. It's opened from 8:30 - 19:30. Entrance is free.Buon weekend!
Weekend Inspiration - Tulips - Park Avenue, New York City
I can tell Spring is really here despite the cold (actually freezing) mornings and the rain. My allergies are on a different level this year. I do not approve.It's Easter weekend. When I was very young this meant a new Easter outfit. We're talking the full enchilada - dress, shoes, gloves, and a HAT!!! This also meant going to an extra long Easter Sunday service but usually the coffee hour after (Methodists don't play) was outstanding.Like many of our other traditions, this one ended once we moved to the suburbs. I know one reason was because I was getting older and nobody really dressed up for Easter in our suburb after a certain age.Another reason for the change was cultural. Our church in Verona was the complete opposite of our church in New York City. Very few people in our town would wear an Aretha Franklin type hat to church.
In the mid 70's my parents' friends and relatives starting fleeing the economically devastated and crime ridden City. Everyone was so spread out. No longer could we walk, take a cab, or just hop on the subway to visit. Now there were long car rides to Westchester County, Long Island, Bergen County, etc.Occasionally, we did make it back into the City. One of my favorite signs of Spring were the tulips on Park Avenue. Years later, after college and career number one, I finally made it back to my hometown and would walk up Park as soon as the tulips were in bloom.Recently I've become much more nostalgic during the holidays. I think it's because I live so far away from my family. My siblings now have their own traditions with their families and I don't.The forecast calls for rain tomorrow. I will buy some tulips.Buon weekend e Buona Pasqua!
Weekend Inspiration - Happy - Pharrell Williams
Yesterday the UN, and people all over the world, celebrated International Day of Happiness.Given all the horrible things happening here on planet Earth, it would be very easy to shrug and think there's nothing to be happy about.Sometimes when I'm in a very good mood, I get a little freaked out. Why am I in a good mood? I should be cynical, depressed, and anxious. It's as if I have no right to be happy. I meet a lot of expats in Rome. Many are not happy and are suspicious of those who are. Being happy is not "keeping it real." We end up fueling each others' fire.One of my dear friends said I should avoid miserable people. Why get sucked into their constant negativity and pessimism? True, we all have bad days, weeks, even months, but as I get older I find I have less patience for people who complain ALL the time but never do anything to change/improve their situation.I tend to worry a lot, mostly about my future. How will I pay my bills? Will my business continue to grow? Will I ever be fluent in Italian? Why is Drake so popular? I lie awake at night and dwell on things I have no control over. This is not healthy and I'm working on it.When I'm happy it's not because anything has really changed. I still have the same bills, worries, and issues. However, sometimes I do remember that I am extremely fortunate in ways that cannot be measured in dollars or euros.It won't be easy but I'm going to try my best to do the opposite of what I normally do, which is to worry and complain.Another friend proclaimed that this was going to be a great year. Based on what? Nothing. She believes it and therefore is going to do everything in her power to make it so.I like the why she thinks.Buon weekend!(I adore this video. I have to restrain myself from dancing when I hear this song while jogging.)[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM&w=560&h=315]
Weekend Insipiration - Have A Seat - Viceroy Hotel - Anguilla, British West Indies
How funky are these chairs?
I am a big fan of Kelly Wearstler's commercial work, yet the Viceroy in Anguilla took me by surprise.A few years ago I met clients for a drink at the bar. At first, when I walked in, the décor seemed so "uncaribbean" to me.Then I walked around. It IS very Caribbean. Wearstler's use of natural materials, her color palette, and the subtle nod to more tradition Caribbean design makes the Viceroy one my favorite hotel spaces.This hotel is huge and could easily feel very corporate (thinking of a certain hotel on the Dutch side of St. Maarten that ruined one of the best beaches on the island).Instead it's unique and jaw dropping gorgeous.Not a bad place to meet for drinks, especially with a locals' discount.I have more meetings this weekend about my Caribbean project.Feeling very inspiredBuon weekend!