I hope everyone enjoyed last night's premiere of the holiday special on HGTV! Production actually happened months ago during a not-so-wintry week in September. Here's just a sliver of the panoramic water views from Kathie Lee's gorgeous, Spanish-style estate in Greenwich. Immediately, upon seeing the house and where it was located, I knew I wanted to do something that invoked the water but in a subtle, sophisticated way.
My other source of inspiration came from this.
It's a swatch of tartan plaid that figures prominently in the main room I chose to decorate. The colors—navy blue, gold, burgundy and hunter green—are a classic Greenwich palette that lends itself perfectly to holiday. But first, every great party needs a memorable entrance, so I decided to decorate a side foyer in Kathie's Lee house as well. I loved the clean, classic lines of the staircase, together with the nautical feel of the beadboard.
On the table, I did a feather tree decorated with icicles and plaid ornaments we made from old shirts I found at the Goodwill. Like the Halloween special, HGTV came to me to create a holiday look that was beautiful without spending a lot of money. The candy buffet I created as a sweet start (and finish!) for Kathie Lee's guests at the party, thanks to our friends at Hammond's.
Here's a before shot of the stairs...
...a beautifully blank backdrop for the modern boxwood garland, embellished with clusters of plaid ornaments and lustrous navy satin ribbon. Overall, I wanted to do something light and fresh in the foyer with an elegant nautical feel that truly related to Kathie's Lee's house and what's to come.
What's to come, however, would definitely need some work, especially if this was going to be a beautiful but budget-friendly party fit for a celebrity. Here's a before shot of the "pub," as Kathie Lee and Frank affectionately call it. As you can see, the tartan plaid covers walls, ceiling and even the six dining chairs in the alcove. It's a symmetrical room, so to play it up, I thought I'd do not one, but two Christmas trees! As a magazine editor, I found that moving furniture around was often the easiest way to freshen up a space, especially for the holidays.
For the trees, I used two fraser firs from US Evergreen in the city, decorated with a mix of ball ornaments from Bronner's and vintage Shiny-Brite reproductions from Christopher Radko, all in the colors of the tartan plaid.
In the alcove, I loved the idea of Kathie Lee and Frank hosting another couple for an intimate dinner following pre-dinner drinks, so I definitely wanted to keep the table in place but move two of the chairs to the other side of the room.
To decorate the windows without obstructing the views, I did five 16" wreaths, also in boxwood, tied with white satin ribbon and hung from curtain rods. The pillows we switched out for a cozier collection from Pottery Barn, perfect all winter long.
The table I set with an eclectic mix of new and old pieces, some borrowed, some Kathie Lee's, and even some of our own! The gorgeous set of gold china, red glass goblets, and gold flatware are all Kathie Lee's, while the salt cellars and monogrammed silverplate flatware we brought from our own butler's pantry at home. To fill in, I borrowed beautiful octagon-shaped dinner plates, champagne flutes, and water glasses from Juliska. Finally, the antique brass candlesticks are Kathie Lee's with navy tapers from our good friends at Creative Candles.
Here's a before shot of the opposite side of the room with a skirted table I planned to remove to make room for the second tree. It's also the perfect time to send it away to the cleaners during the holidays!
Of course, two trees in a room this small is a touch unexpected, perhaps even indulgent, but what can I say? I love a pair, especially in a space so symmetrical! As you can see, I also dropped the leaves on the coffee table to make more room during the party. If you're entertaining for the holidays, I suggest moving furniture around or even out of the room completely, so guests have space to mingle comfortably.
Finally, here's a before shot of the opposite side of the room. As pretty as the painting is above the fireplace, I knew it would also be the perfect place for a beautiful boxwood wreath and garland.
On either side of the mantel, I placed two of the dining chairs with arms for extra seating during the cocktail party. The icicles I made from paper, while the wreath and garland are embellished with pine cones and gold ornament baubles. The stockings I fashioned from green felt with monogrammed letters for Kathie Lee, Frank, Cody, and Cassidy. Everything was super easy and inexpensive, but more on that in the days to come!
never saw the special until right now online. always admired kathie lee's taste in decorating. over the years magazines and specials have shown her homes and it's amazing how i recognize some of the pieces scattered about. you did a wonderful job and i especially love the creativeness of making ornaments with the shirts. my son-in-law passed away 5 yrs ago and my daughter kept his shirts and ties. we were trying to think of something original to do with them for my grandson who is now six. what a wonderful idea!!! thank you.......anne kelly
Posted by: anne kelly | January 15, 2010 at 02:09 PM
Hi! I missed the show, but I love what you did in Kathies' home. You brought out the richness of the room, by using those pillows. Wondering if the show will be shown again? Does anyone know? What a novel idea you had in using the shirts to cover the balls. Salvation Army is such a great source! Oh, and bringing in the white ribbon on the wreaths, brought a brightness to the setting. Regards, Serenities @ Etsy.
Posted by: Marcia Calcaterra | December 20, 2009 at 11:05 PM
The show finally aired today on HGTV Canada - I've been dying to see it and enjoyed every minute of your appearance! I love what you did with the spaces and your message that you don't have to spend a fortune to get an elegant look. Happy Holidays to you and Jaithan!
Posted by: Brigitte in Toronto | December 20, 2009 at 04:19 PM
Lovely Eddie...you made the home more family feeling for the holiday's. It was already very old world Scottish manor house, but you made it feel more cozy with a softer feel and less hunt club. I love the foyer with the plaid ornaments...very country chic. Great work :) have a very Merry Christmas both of you guys. Holiday wishes and lots of cheer.
Christie
ACK
Posted by: Christie Lefebvre | December 14, 2009 at 10:17 PM
http://www.propertycrunch.com/celebrity
check out these homes owned by hollywood stars
Posted by: property recrods | December 14, 2009 at 12:18 AM
Missed the show last week and had hoped to see it today, but it was removed from this Sunday's planned airing! Good news, though -- we searched and found it on the HGTV web site as a video (did you know that?!) so I was able to view it online. Tell your readers!
Great job, Eddie...and was that Jaithan for a second carrying in the tree? Those shirt ornaments are so clever -- and (suggestion of my daughter-in-law) a good idea for a take-away gift for guests.
Wishing you a loads of good holiday wishes and more wonderful creativity!
xoxo
Evy
Posted by: Evelyn Weiss | December 13, 2009 at 09:20 PM
Hi Eddie,
Sure enjoyed the show and seeing what great things you and other decorators did.
I will be sure and check back for more about it on your blog. Love it!!
Linda Q
Posted by: Linda Queen | December 13, 2009 at 05:40 PM
You were absolutely wonderful. I love the plaid.
XOXO
Posted by: Shandell's | December 09, 2009 at 01:54 PM
What a polished and cozy room!!
Posted by: Risa | December 09, 2009 at 10:28 AM
I recorded the show on my DVR and watched it last night....so fabulous! The fabric wrapped ornaments were my favorite thing!
Have a fabulous day!
Julie
Posted by: Fabulous Finds Studio/Boutique | December 09, 2009 at 08:52 AM
Gorgeous!! Fabulous! Marvelous!
I love that you swapped the pillows with new ones and put the table leaf down. That is why you are so awesome! It's also the little things that count!
Now I'm going to put a wreath over my fireplace (and take my picture down) - thanks for the idea Eddie!!
Posted by: Mona from Toronto | December 09, 2009 at 08:30 AM
the tartan is the same (or looks just like) my uniform growing up oh my gooness!!! it's never looked so good!!! you're AMAZING!!!! The room looks like it was MEANT for Christmas!!!
xoxoxox
Posted by: Lauren | December 09, 2009 at 06:26 AM
Love Love Love it - so Ralph Lauren - glad you got rid of those floral pillows - it looks so rich and classy. Makes me want to put on a cashmere robe and slippers and drink a glass of cognac.
Posted by: Ann | December 08, 2009 at 07:54 PM
Well done you!!
Really a marvelous job. Mrs. Gifford should have kept it up till Christmas! I hope she did!
Posted by: Pamela | December 08, 2009 at 04:11 PM
Enjoyed the show, Eddie! I think you did a great job in the space that you were given! I bet Kathie Lee did not expect such a transformation! You WOWED her!
Happy Holidays!
Posted by: Maureen aka Mao | December 08, 2009 at 12:14 PM
Gorgeous...You did an amazing job. Loved the two trees. Enjoyed the show very much.
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.
Posted by: Christine | December 08, 2009 at 09:24 AM
Enjoyed the show! You did an amazing job! Very unique and festive! The tablescape was my favorite...fabulous! :)
~Rhonda
Posted by: Rhonda | December 08, 2009 at 08:03 AM
Fabulous! Thank you for getting rid of the ruffles and chintz!
Posted by: Nancy Gibson | December 08, 2009 at 12:47 AM
You did an outstanding job Eddie. The shirting fabric ornaments really looked great and I'll have to try duplicating that idea. All of your ideas were very inspiring and the home looked so inviting.
Posted by: Georgie | December 08, 2009 at 12:04 AM
I saw the HGTV special, and just wanted to tell you that I loved the holiday look you gave Kathie Lee! :) It was both elegant enough for an adult dinner party, and playful enough for her children to feel right at home! And, I must say, it was also my fav look from the special as well! Loved it! Wonderful job :)!!
Blessings,
Stacey
Posted by: Stacey @ The Blessed Nest | December 07, 2009 at 11:49 PM
This was awesome! I love the plaid... so classic,! You have great ideas! Keep up the good work! I have decorated 6 houses for clients so far this season! whew! Still going strong! Hee hee!
Just did: The Cancer Society's Christmas Fantasy house too!
My room was a library, and first thing I did was go to goodwill! Almost everything I used from there!
They never knew what hit them! Hee hee, but they thought the room was the best one! Ha!
Vanessa :)
Http://RhinestoneContessa.com
Posted by: RhinestoneContessa.com | December 07, 2009 at 10:03 PM
I was blown away by the decorations in the foyer and the candy buffet. Everything you did was beautiful!!!!
Posted by: Susie | December 07, 2009 at 09:42 PM
This looks so great... I really like how you swapped the pillows out to the solid. I love how you show the before then the after in your photos. You make all the difference... nice work Eddie!
Posted by: Maria | December 07, 2009 at 09:29 PM
Eddie,I still can't believe what you did with Kathie Lee's home. How wonderful that you created something beautiful with something so simple. We all need to get back to the time when we crafted with our families. That's what the special memories are made of....I think you reminded everyone of that. I've rooted for you ever since Design Star...so glad HGTV was smart enough to "grab" you. I'll watch your blog to see when you might be making it down to Texas. Take care! --Debra
Posted by: Debra Graham | December 07, 2009 at 08:45 PM
You guys did it again, all the hard work paid off. Wonderful! Can't wait to see how you decorate the farm house for Christmas. Great show and your house (KLG) was the best AGAIN. See ya
Posted by: Kirby a farmer | December 07, 2009 at 08:25 PM
I loved this room when you were done! It turned out so well. I especially liked the plaid shirt balls, they looked great in the foyer. I would love some of those and they looked so easy. Can't wait to see more!
Great Job!~~Linda
Posted by: Linda @ A La Carte | December 07, 2009 at 08:00 PM
Absolutely Gorgeous!!!!
Loved the show, loved your designs. You really did bring a fresh updated take to her lovely home...very warm and welcoming. Yeah, you really do need you own show Eddie, enough with all the real estate shows on HGTV. Let's see some more great designing...
Posted by: Jeanne | December 07, 2009 at 07:57 PM
Fabulous congrats! I totally stumbled on the episode by accident, and although I loved all of the ideas showcased at all the houses, I'm a lover of candy buffets (still loving your Halloween candy buffet), and loved what you did the best. And giggles on all the comments on those flower pillows; I have to say I loved that those were switched out and the new pillows actually go much better.
Posted by: Dawn | December 07, 2009 at 07:56 PM
I thought you did an amazing job considering the decor. It was a beautiful room with pretty antiques however the rest of the room was quite dated. I thought it look very elegant when you were done.
It was a wonderful special and I admit to liking all of the rooms when they were done. Traditional decor is my favorite though.
I would have loved to see what you would have done if you could have removed all of that plaid. Perhaps that could be another show.
You were delightful and refreshing. I loved how you respected her wishes and yet turned out a fabulous makeover. The candy was a fun and festive touch and the tablescape was just grand!
Great job!
Posted by: Dream Mom | December 07, 2009 at 07:21 PM
I saw this show last night and thought the house you did was by far the best! Plus to know you did it on a budget was even better.
Wonderful job! You really should have your own show!
Hugs,
Joanne
Posted by: Joanne Kennedy | December 07, 2009 at 04:47 PM
Wow! I saw the show last night and was stunned by the beautiful transformation of the hallway and living room. I especially loved the plaid shirt ornaments... And I'm now inspired to look at ordinary objects as Christmas decorations!
Posted by: Jen @ homeinthecountry | December 07, 2009 at 04:41 PM
You and Kathie Lee were a perfect match. I love all that you did to make the space feel more festive, yet not overdone. Especially in a room that, while beautiful, was already pushing the limits for me, and I like a cozy room. Great job. I cannot wait to see your spring special, maybe?
Posted by: Angie Peck | December 07, 2009 at 04:07 PM
I tivod it and just watched it. You presented yourself so well. I wish you had your own show. Great job Eddie, I knew you would do us proud, lol
Kendra
Posted by: Kendra | December 07, 2009 at 03:34 PM
You are absolutely awesome. I need plaid !!! I'm on the prowl for old men's shirts. Thanks so much for all the great ideas. I'm grateful that you make this easy to do ourselves !!!
Posted by: Beth | December 07, 2009 at 03:09 PM
When are they going to give you your own show!
You are great!
But the 80's called and they want Kathy Lee's room back ha ha.
It looked much better once you infused it with some life. She should keep the pillows you added to the couch and ditch those granny chintz ones (I love chintz but not that one!).
You got the most difficult space to decorate, and you pulled it off brilliantly!
And Alberto is already cutting up his shirts and making me some ornaments!
xo xo
Posted by: Visual Vamp | December 07, 2009 at 02:47 PM
what a beautiful before and after, I love the source of inspiration, it came out super classic and chic!
Posted by: LindsB | December 07, 2009 at 02:43 PM
Great job! Loved the candy buffet and the color scheme was perfect.
Posted by: CityLivingGirl | December 07, 2009 at 02:39 PM
New fan of your work. Enjoyed watching the HGTV Celebrity Holiday Home show. LOVE your infectious personality and sense of humor. When I first saw the interior of KLG's home I thought, "Jesus, it's the 80's." But you were so lovely and complimentary of the home. I think your work is exceptional. xoxo
Posted by: Renee | December 07, 2009 at 02:21 PM
It's all so lovely Eddie, I very much enjoyed the special. Your table setting is stunning, as always, and those stairs are so amazing in the before and after.
Nice to meet you yesterday !
Ms. Kate
www.CentsationalGirl.com
Posted by: Kate at Centsational Girl | December 07, 2009 at 01:33 PM
You don't need to show this post - but my GOD those flowered pillow covers where just too depressing. The changes you made made my day. What a relief to see accessories in that room that show the refinement of taste and design that the room deserces. Congratulations. Ann
Posted by: Ann | December 07, 2009 at 01:22 PM
The special was lovely. What a gorgeous home! The trees are so full and excessive just the way a Christmas tree should look. A home run!
Posted by: ABCOroville | December 07, 2009 at 01:06 PM
It was beautiful. Loved the candy buffet.
Posted by: Erin Parker | December 07, 2009 at 12:56 PM
Eddie, you did a magnificent job, the wreaths were so elegant and the candy table was super welcoming. The other 2 celebrity homes were really good, too. How nice to see elegant homes without budgets being decorated instead of the usual "decorating on $100". Please do it every year. Did Kathy Lee let you search thru all her tableware, you had free reign to look?
Posted by: Liz in Seattle | December 07, 2009 at 12:04 PM
It was so great! I loved it... I really loved those balls from the shirts, something about the amount of those you had took it to such a perfect level... it looked fantastic... great!
Posted by: Rene | December 07, 2009 at 11:36 AM
Eddie -
The show was great - your's was the best! Thanks for the great ideas!
Happy Holidays!
-Sue
Posted by: Sue | December 07, 2009 at 11:33 AM
Loved the show last night. I am hoping you will tell us again how to make the ornaments from shirts and how to hang them on the garland.
Thanks again for all the great ideas.
Posted by: Kerri | December 07, 2009 at 10:42 AM
The show was so great! It was one of the best shows I've watched on HGTV!!! It was also so nice to meet you and Jaithan yesterday at Alameda! I had so much fun!
Posted by: Cindy~My Romantic Home | December 07, 2009 at 10:35 AM
How did I miss it! I'm going to look it up on the On Demand tonight!
Such a wonderful job. The foyer is gorgeous and I LOVE those stockings!
Posted by: carlee | December 07, 2009 at 10:30 AM
It was a great job Eddie. Do you mind doing a tutorial of the shirt-ornaments on your blog? There wasn't enough detail on the how-to during the episode. I love the way they turned out. Congrats on another fine tuned spot-light on your talents! Artie
Posted by: Artie | December 07, 2009 at 10:12 AM
Eddie-
It looked Ah-May-Zing. You are so inspiring. Loved the plaid ornaments you made and the feather tree was so cute and a great way to welcome guests. I love boxwood garland, there is nothing like it. Congrats!
Nice meeting you and Jaithan yesterday before your organized group outing. I hope you liked the flea market. The first Sunday of the month is my favorite because of that market - all the other Sunday's I usually roam the San Francisco Antique Mall right near my house in Bernal Heights.
Safe Travels to you both and stay warm!
-Katie (MalteseKat)
Posted by: Katie | December 07, 2009 at 10:09 AM
Eddie, what a transformation.KG is lucky to have you for a designer, I think you have made her Christmas much easier and more beautiful. You edited the room beautifully. All your touches are perfect. My favorite is the mantle,love the simplicity and elegance of the use of the green and white,perfection. Great Job!! I hope HGTV has more shows with you, You are such an inspiration. Hugs Kathysue
Posted by: kathysue | December 07, 2009 at 09:50 AM
Eddie- This was gorgeous! My mother is in town and we watched it together last night. The styrofoam balls covered with strips of shirting are fantastic!
It sure was a bummer missing you at Round Top, but it's good to see that you created something wonderful instead!
Posted by: Living With Lindsay | December 07, 2009 at 09:44 AM
The Hammonds cany bar is beautiful. I am fortunate to live in the Denver area and went shopping there recently to create one of my own! Brilliant!
Posted by: Dee | December 07, 2009 at 09:37 AM
Good Morning Eddie...
I taped the show I plan to watch sometime today....thanks for the preview !!! I never would have guessed Kathie having a plaid room !!!
I like that Kathie has strong opinions can't wait to watch....
I am sure she LOVED what you did :)
All the best,
Kathy :)
Posted by: Kathy :) | December 07, 2009 at 09:32 AM
I loved the special and loved your room! Nice work! :) I really hope you will be showing us how you did those great ornaments from men's shirts. Pretty please!! :)
Posted by: Suzanne | December 07, 2009 at 09:12 AM
As always BEAUTIFUL! Love, love, love the 2 trees!
Posted by: Laurie Jones | December 07, 2009 at 08:59 AM
Yall were too cute on the show. (Saw you too, Jaithan, there for a second!) What do you bet, the shirt ornaments will be replicated a zillion times this year? How creative! Thanks, Eddie, your designs were the best!
Posted by: Granny Smith Green | December 07, 2009 at 08:34 AM
What a terrific special. Each of the homes was lovely, but Kathie Lee's home is so warm and inviting. My favorite element was the handmade ornaments. What a terrific idea to use the mens' shirts.
Posted by: Karen Evans | December 07, 2009 at 08:05 AM
You did an amazing job on her home. I loved the mantle and the trees. You are too cute !
Posted by: Tammy@InStitches | December 07, 2009 at 08:00 AM
I enjoyed the show!
As usual, found you very entertaining :)
Posted by: sheista | December 07, 2009 at 07:52 AM
* G'morning, Eddie! Enjoyed the show last night! You did a super job all the way around, & looked SOOOOO relaxed n' cute on camera, too! (MUCH cuter than KLG!)~
I actually got my Jim to watch it WITH me & he & I agreed that the plaid was sooo cool! I had wanted to do something similar, on a less "grand" scale, for a wonderful little ski place we had in Park City (UT) & at the time, he just couldn't "see my vision"... NOWWWWW he understands it (& LIKES it!)~~~ Problem is, we sold the place when moving to AZ from UT(tooooo far of a drive for a "weekend place", wouldn't you say?!?!)...
Hope this Christmas is wonderful for you n' Jaithan & all the family & friends you love so much!
May I say, "Ya dun gooood, kiddo!"...
Warmly,
Linda in AZ
bellesmom1234@comcast.net
Posted by: Linda in AZ * | December 07, 2009 at 07:28 AM
Eddie, It all turned out so wonderful. I love the color scheme and the many fabulous elements that you added to make it such a beautiful space (without going overboard)for entertaining over the holidays.
Wishing you a wonderful week and continued success.
xo, Jennifer
Posted by: Jennifer @ Fiddle Dee Dee | December 07, 2009 at 06:58 AM
I really love what you did to the mantle. STUNNING! I so want a mantle every time I see you style one! The window treatments are also amazing! I'm always inspired when I pop over here :)
Posted by: Dagny @ Beautiful Living | December 07, 2009 at 06:30 AM
I saw you twice yesterday! First I saw you at the Alameda Antique Show, then I saw you on the show tonight on HGTV. You did a great job decorating the home. Wish I had signed up for your tour at Alameda......Delores
Posted by: Delores | December 07, 2009 at 05:00 AM
Hi, That room's colour scheme was very Christmassy to start with but I felt you lightened and brightened it. Moving the furniture was such a simple step but so effective. Two trees was a brilliant idea. I am inspired to hang a wreath instead of our picture over the mantel – it really changes the look. Happy Christmas everyone and happy home styling to all. Best wishes, Irene
Posted by: Irene | December 07, 2009 at 04:32 AM