The days are getting longer, the weather warmer and I'm in the mood for spring!
How couldn't I be when such a splashy floral takes center stage in our newest window for fabric house Carleton V? Growing Wild, it's called, a colorful hand-screen print from 1975 so wildly popular in its day, it was just reissued for the spring! Carleton Varney designed it himself with a nod, of course, to the vibrant, lager-than-life prints for which his mentor Dorothy Draper was known. Here it is in the lobby bar of the Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas that Draper designed and Varney later refurbished.
As much as I love the print for upholstery, I knew I wanted to put my own, more modern spin on it for the window by covering all the walls with it, refurbishing a few flea market finds, then adding a great mix of new and vintage objects and accessories. But first, as warm and boozy cozy as Miss DeDe was in her winter chalet, this is the brutal, here-then-gone world of window dressing, and so what goes up...
...must come down.
If a hard-edged DeDe in her grand mansion in the country had been the inspiration for our winter window, this one would be for a different woman altogether, a younger but no less ambitious publicist for an Italian fashion house in New York. She's Hampton, named for that storied stretch of Long Island where her parents met so many summers ago. Now here's a woman who's not afraid of bold patterns and vibrant hues, dressing her house in Palm Beach as she would herself—with color and confidence at every step. So with a spirited young Hampton in mind and the window yet another blank canvas...
...up went the fabric and trim for the walls...
...along with a boldly striped linen in hot pink, pinch-pleated for a peek into her world.
For the furniture, I found two inexpensive pieces at thrift shops, along with a mirror in our own attic, that my team and I simply freshened up with paint (Valspar's Berry Red through Lowe's). First, there was this 1980s parsons table with peeling faux marble contact paper...
...next, a carved wood shield mirror that once hung over our fireplace in the city...
...and finally the 1960s faux bamboo chair I spray painted yellow, then fashioned a seat cushion in the same exuberant print as the walls.
This pair of antique French oil lamps with turquoise porcelain bases we borrowed from our good friend, antiques dealer David Duncan. I loved the unexpected pop of color they'd bring to the space! So with a cart full of props and shimmery baubles from our friend Cara Hotchkiss of Oliphant Design, we headed to the window to finish the installation.
As you can see, all the major pieces for Hampton's fairytale dressing room were in place, along with a remnant of plush carpeting from ABC Carpet & Home in a vivid, lipstick red.
While our trusted assistant Lindsey placed crystals on a vintage brass chandelier I'd scored just days earlier at a Goodwill, and Jaithan hung a pair Chinoiserie needlepoint prints he'd found at an antique mall upstate, I styled the look for Hampton's impending afternoon event, a polo match in West Palm.
Half-past three and she's just returned from lunch at the club. She takes off her hat, tosses her bag.
This dress will be perfect, she thinks, smoothing her hand over the soft fabric of its neck. It was her mother's.
Dressed now, Hampton's just about dash before she glances at her phone.
A wave of hope washes over her...he remembered.
Quickly, Hampton reaches for her favorite bracelet, dabs on the Chanel and goes.
As happy as she is on her own, with a life awash in color, she couldn't help but think there's more...
Whatever lies ahead, she thinks—tonight, tomorrow and always—be fearless.
Love! You guys are doing amazing work again.
Sorry I haven't dropped by in a while - tonight I am trying to catch up on all my fave blogs.
xo,
cristin
Posted by: cristin @ simplified bee | April 11, 2011 at 11:46 PM
What fabulous colors eddie - a stunning window as always!!
Posted by: Lisa McGee | April 08, 2011 at 04:18 AM
I literally gasped when I saw this- I could not possibly love this more- sheer and utter PERFECTION!!!! I would give my left arm for a room covered in the fabric with the gorgeous hits of pink- le sigh...divine!
Posted by: christine {bijouandboheme} | April 03, 2011 at 09:36 AM
delicious! enjoyed the story as much as the window. and those lamps!!! THOSE LAMPS!! brilliant! well done!!
xo,
Tessa
Posted by: Tessa | March 26, 2011 at 08:31 PM
Eddie,
I love love the whole vignette! Love all the color combos and thos lamps are to die for!
www.villa-bisono.com
Posted by: Maurenice | March 25, 2011 at 04:16 PM
I'm late to this one. It's just adorable and a breathe of fresh air. Your talent really lies in creating vignettes and spaces like this -an effortless but fun charm.
Posted by: ArchitectDesign | March 25, 2011 at 11:06 AM
I had no idea back then, when I saw your first Carleton V window in your blog, that I would become a loyal follower of your seasonal windows. Beautiful!
Posted by: Paula | March 25, 2011 at 09:26 AM
I was just at the D&D and saw that fabulous window and though "That looks SO Eddie" and I look down and it was! Great job Eddie LOVE IT.
xoxo
Alicia
Posted by: Alicia | March 25, 2011 at 07:17 AM
Oh Eddie, I came over to your blog to look through your post of table settings and I gasped at this window! I can't say that it's my favorite because I adore EVERYTHING you guys do (Jaithan you too, boo!). I love the way you tell a story with the "person" who's space it would belong too! I must see you guys when you're in Atlanta again.
Happy Thursday!
Posted by: Lakeitha Duncan | March 24, 2011 at 04:41 PM
Oh Jesus this is (I've paused to find the words....) just so modern and perfect and springy - how could it be anything else with that amazing wallpaper. You're going to love my daughter's room, Eddie. It's nearly finished and it's very... Eddie!
Loving your work as always - these window display step by steps are truly "fascinating".
xLouise
Posted by: Louise (Table Tonic) | March 23, 2011 at 07:21 AM
I know Junior Leaguers here in the south that would trade their first born or at least their mama's triple strand of pearls for that fabric!
www.ajbarnesonline.blogspot.com
Posted by: Randy | March 22, 2011 at 08:30 PM
Wonderful
I love that wall paper ..
Posted by: Jürgen | March 22, 2011 at 06:40 PM
I LOVE IT ALL!!!!!!! Especially the lamps....
Posted by: Ryland Woodard | March 22, 2011 at 09:47 AM
I love it! It is so much fun to ride along as you dress a window. I love hearing your creative process. Genius!
Posted by: rachael | March 21, 2011 at 11:23 PM
I could live in this window. Thank you for another inspiring post! I love it!
Posted by: Hooper Patterson | March 21, 2011 at 11:20 PM
Outstanding! As always a jobe very well done.
xx
Posted by: Renae | March 21, 2011 at 09:43 PM
That window is fabulous!!!! Oh, gotta run. Warner is calling...... :)
Posted by: Dianne | March 21, 2011 at 09:13 PM
I absolutely
LOVE how you
weave a story
into these window
displays!!! Your
team is amazing
AND literary, too!
Imagine this one
is stopping folks
in their tracks.
Love it.
xx Suzanne
Posted by: Privet and Holly | March 21, 2011 at 08:49 PM
LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!
Posted by: abby jenkins | March 21, 2011 at 06:06 PM
what fun! this is gorgeous and so thoughtful of every little detail. awesome job! have a super week! xo susan
Posted by: susan | March 21, 2011 at 02:57 PM
After painting my nails in a vivid hue, relaxing in a pantsuit with a cocktail or two. I shall dream only of Palm Beach and wait for Warren to call.
Maybe he will return my bracelet?
As ever...... I am enthralled.
Posted by: Mrs.Lee | March 21, 2011 at 02:27 PM
As usual, beautiful and inspirational. I think you should do a flip book of all the different characters you have created along the way. Not exactly for children but for their design loving parents......
Posted by: CourtneyOutLoud | March 21, 2011 at 12:12 PM
Ok hands down my favorite window that team Eddie Ross has done!
It's amazing and makes me feel so happy and full of energy!
What a beautiful floral! I'm already designing a room around it in my head.
Bravo!
Posted by: Camila | March 21, 2011 at 10:50 AM
Eddie,
I did a blog entry about Dorothy Draper and Carleton Varney last week. Here's the link: http://the2seasons.com/2011/03/17/dorothy-does-drapes/
Mr. Varney spoke at a luncheon I attended, and I had a connection to one of the castles they decorated in Ireland.
Posted by: Janette @ The2Seasons | March 21, 2011 at 08:35 AM
I love the story behind the scene. So clever. And I love that fabric - bring on the colour!
Posted by: Perfecting Pru | March 21, 2011 at 04:56 AM
Such a happy space! Love the color! You know I love your window posts (is there one of your posts I don't love? NO!) haha Have a wonderful week, Eddie.
Posted by: sandy@oohlafroufrou | March 21, 2011 at 12:36 AM
Love it...that fabric is divine and so what I'm lovin' right now. And that crystal chandelier you found at the Goodwill...incredible find!!! I must say I have never seen one at any of my local Goodwills, but I scored a campaign bedside table the other day...yay! I think I have said this before, but I really like how you incorporate so many vintage finds into your window dressings...makes them so alive with a connection to the past. Great job!
Posted by: Danielle {freshquince} | March 20, 2011 at 11:23 PM
How bold and fun! Gotta love all of the pink!
Hope you have had a great weekend!
xx
Posted by: Jesse {GoodGirlGoneGlad} | March 20, 2011 at 11:08 PM
I know that mirror well. I have the image of that fireplace and gray chairs that have the Greek key design on their backs saved in my files. It's a great vignette.
Great job on the window. It's like a party.
Posted by: Steve@UrbanCottage | March 20, 2011 at 09:53 PM
Looks great E+J! It's so happy!
Posted by: amanda | March 20, 2011 at 12:47 PM
I always get so excited to see the new Carleton V window...fabulous as always!!
Posted by: designchic | March 19, 2011 at 10:23 PM
I can't believe that fabric is from the 70's...it's so great - and of course, you did a fantastic job (once again!) showcasing it in all it's floral glory...another brilliant, fun and gorgeous space!
I'd love to be a fly on the wall when you think up your stories!
xo J~
Posted by: Jessica | March 19, 2011 at 09:37 PM
Our blog featured Carleton Varney and Dorothy Draper on the same day on Thursday as well. I have a connection to Dromoland Castle which was decorated by D.D. LOVE the blue lamps.
Posted by: Janette @ The2Seasons | March 19, 2011 at 07:39 PM
I absolutely love, love, love this window. The colors are so bright and cheerful! You and Jaithan are so incredibly talented. I so enjoy your blog and of course your talent. Keep up the good work,
Ann
Posted by: Ann Chamberlain | March 18, 2011 at 11:30 PM
Hot Springs is so awesome! We went all the time when I was a teen.
The window is so glamorous and I love that you wrote on the mirror with lipstick :)
Have a fabulous weekend!
Julie
Posted by: Fabulous Finds Studio | March 18, 2011 at 07:09 PM
LOVE it all!
Posted by: French Basketeer | March 18, 2011 at 04:35 PM
Eddie, as much as I love the windows, I always look forward to the stories! Kudos on giving us both eye candy and a soap opera! I can't wait to see the next diva who gets a window...how about a rags to riches tale?
Posted by: Amber | March 18, 2011 at 03:41 PM
Love the tones of the floral, would really compliment my office -- I currently have a feature wall that is crying out for an update. Lovely inspiration.
-- Coryanne
Posted by: Coryanne Ettiene | March 18, 2011 at 03:12 PM
You're a genius. From the first sentence, I just had to keep reading. I felt as if I was actually seeing Hampton in action. I just love it and I can't believe you scored that light at the Goodwill. Send it my way when you're through! ;)
Posted by: Ginger | March 18, 2011 at 02:53 PM
As always, truly brilliant and inspirational.
Posted by: Sarah | March 18, 2011 at 02:13 PM
Amazing. I think the next time I have a bad day, I'm going to open a bottle of pink champagne and pretend I'm in this room until I cheer up!
Posted by: Natalie | March 18, 2011 at 02:13 PM
I lurk on your blog. I lurk here often. I LOVE that you use COLOR!!! And now - I want the window! LOL
;-D robelyn
(no longer lurking...)
Posted by: robelyn | March 18, 2011 at 11:52 AM
Happy sigh. You are amazing. And the stories to go along with these windows are just divine. LOVE!
Posted by: traci zeller designs | March 18, 2011 at 10:13 AM
Did we say color is back? I think so. Wow, you knocked it out of the park this time, Eddie.
Posted by: J. O'Hara | March 18, 2011 at 10:00 AM
Aren't you the romantics???? Wonderfully done!
I saw 'Secretariat' last night!
Penny (Diane Lane) could have been Hampton's beloved mother!
The movie is fabulous and so well styled. Perfect period 1969!
If you haven't,why don't you see it!?
xoxo Victoria
Posted by: victoria | March 18, 2011 at 09:17 AM
oh how I loves me my Carlton, let me count the ways ...
the Grand on Mackinaw is my favorite!
and now this colorful, messy, feminine peek into the window of CV
soon to become my favorite .
love love love every detail and the thought behind the "messy" concept.
Posted by: savvycityfarmer | March 18, 2011 at 09:06 AM
My FAVORITE! Loves me some BRIGHT colors. I'm in a house full of boys, so this is fun fun fun!
Mary
From Virginia
Posted by: Mary | March 18, 2011 at 08:49 AM
Wow, that floral print for the wall is just full on, but so likeable. I am a an of great wallpapers, and when it lifts up the feeling of a room, which they always do!
Posted by: Tom @ Worldwide Tapestries | March 18, 2011 at 05:55 AM
I bet even her ring-tone is colorful! Pop goes that window at Carleton V!
I think even Warhol would approve.:)
pve
Posted by: pve | March 18, 2011 at 03:14 AM
Love it!! Great job Eddie! Such a lovely combination of patterns and colors, and I specially like the story you tell along with the space. You make those characters seem so real. =) My favorite window design so far!
Posted by: Ana (Confessions of a designer) | March 18, 2011 at 12:15 AM
Oh so stunning I love the window,and Hampton's life sounds wonderfuly exciting as well!!
Come and enter to win my Spring “Green “ Gift”.
Xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Posted by: Karena | March 17, 2011 at 11:15 PM
It was worth the wait... Love it!!
Posted by: ann | March 17, 2011 at 10:46 PM
I've been to the D & D three times since you did this installation and each time it stops me in my tracks! I adore every inch of the design and I love the "call Warner" on the mirror.
Posted by: Hamptontoes | March 17, 2011 at 10:23 PM
How fabulous!! I want to move in!!!
Posted by: Sandra Jonas | March 17, 2011 at 10:22 PM
Love it! You all create a great story and display.
Posted by: Alan karlin | March 17, 2011 at 09:32 PM
Eddie I love it when you take us on these journeys! The window is wonderful - as always, and the attention to detail fantastic!
Hope you are well and that you and Jaithan are enjoying some beautiful Spring weather.
Hugs from Sydney
xx Charlotta
Posted by: Charlotta | March 17, 2011 at 09:31 PM
I loved your window. I've spent happy days in the Grand Hotel on Macinaw Island, Michigan, where all of the rooms were decorated by Mr. Varney. Each room is a treat for the eyes. Twice I even got to stay in the Carlton Varney Suite. Please convey to him how much I have enjoyed his work since I will probably never have the pleasure of meeting him.
Posted by: Sallie | March 17, 2011 at 09:12 PM
Just so bright and cheery... I especially love that mirror and chair! Well done!
Posted by: patti @ pandora's Box | March 17, 2011 at 08:35 PM
How much fun was that!!?? I can't decide if I love the story or Varney's floral more!! It really feels like Spring!
Posted by: Sally@DivineDistractions | March 17, 2011 at 08:33 PM
How fun is that!? I wanna be her and live in that room, please?
Posted by: Diane | March 17, 2011 at 08:22 PM
This is a double WOW! Looking at this window makes my happy!
Posted by: Patricia Flournoy | March 17, 2011 at 08:16 PM
this is an outstanding double WOW! Looking at it makes my happy...
Posted by: Patricia | March 17, 2011 at 08:13 PM
I absolutely love love love the window!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You and Jaithan are so incredibly talented.
Sheer genius.
Posted by: Ann Chamberlain | March 17, 2011 at 08:10 PM
Love this one!! Might be my favorite so far....hard to say....I am crazy for them all for different reasons! Please agree to sell me the chinoiserie prints when you are done with this window! Jaithan hit pay dirt there!
Beautiful job!!!
Posted by: Vickie H. | March 17, 2011 at 08:03 PM
I want to get dressed here!!! Great job! Those lamps are the perfect punctuation for the space.
Posted by: Donna Atkinson | March 17, 2011 at 07:51 PM
Okay. Stop it with the talents!! Great storytelling. I felt like I was at the start of a novel, only better because I was actually there in her space, seeing her things. You constantly amaze. Thanks and just a gorgeous job you guys! Bravo!
Posted by: Carol@SofasandSage | March 17, 2011 at 07:49 PM
This is fabulous! Love the lamps, the parsons table....all of it. That fabric is used perfectly! You've shown it off in it's best light. Great job all of you!
Posted by: Carla@DesignintheWoods | March 17, 2011 at 07:41 PM
I love it!!
Posted by: Laura Casey Interiors | March 17, 2011 at 07:39 PM
Awww, you guys! Full of surprises and creativity. Love the layers of different patterns. And those lamps with the black shades. Very nice.
Hugs to you both,
Mon
Posted by: Splendid Willow | March 17, 2011 at 07:28 PM
OMG! That mirror is to die for!! Love the shape!!
Posted by: The Hidden List | March 17, 2011 at 07:26 PM
brava!
the story line beautifully segues to the depth of interest in your latest window. glorious fabric coming to life.......adore everything!
xo
debra
Posted by: debra phillips | March 17, 2011 at 06:26 PM
How delightful! I love the story and the window. Fabulous!
Posted by: Shelley | March 17, 2011 at 06:24 PM
Wow!!!Love all the color AND her story! That wallcover/fabric is the end! Love it.
Posted by: suzanne spina | March 17, 2011 at 05:39 PM
love it! i can just tell she IS quite fabulous...i love the boldness, very very inspiring! Thank you Eddie!
Posted by: Rebecca | March 17, 2011 at 04:37 PM
Cute window, and that picture with the white banquette looks just like the lobby of the Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs, AR! I'm going there this weekend.
SG
Posted by: SouthernGirl | March 17, 2011 at 03:30 PM
As always your spaces are so fun and bright and cheery. I cant imagine anyone looking through this window and not have a great day. Colors do so much for our mood.
Those blue lamps are by far amazing. They remind me of the green lamps you tweeted about at Scott's a week ago. Here as well, something as small (and sometimes inexpensive) as a lamp can dramatically change one's space.
Personally, I have been longing for decent black lampshades locally. I think it may be time I simply broke down and ordered from offline.
Cheers my friends
Mr. Goodwill Hunting
Posted by: Mr. Goodwill Hunting | March 17, 2011 at 02:48 PM
I adore this post. The electric blue of the lamps is sheer genius in this space of pink and green. How do you continue to top your self, Eddie! M.
Posted by: Mandi Smith T | March 17, 2011 at 02:23 PM
Eddie -- it is just fabulous!! I love how you "know" your inspiring characters so well and create the perfect setting for them. The painted thrift pieces are the best.
Are you celebrating St. Patrick's Day? Stop by the market to see my green crudite with Green Goddess dip -- it is the perfect way to start the feast.
It must have been hard taking down the previous creation, but thank you for the springy vision! ebh
Posted by: splendid Market | March 17, 2011 at 02:00 PM
You are SO talented! I love it!
Posted by: Erica | March 17, 2011 at 01:34 PM
once again, you all did a smash-up terrific job! i just adore the story behind it all. perfection.
Posted by: sarah g | March 17, 2011 at 01:25 PM
This window is the BEST! The black and blue are great anchors... for me at least. Oh and that touch of lime,ahhh.
Posted by: cathy | March 17, 2011 at 01:18 PM
Eddie this is even more gorgeous than the winter window. I love those antique lamps especially with the black shades. Fabulous!
Posted by: Melanie J | March 17, 2011 at 01:06 PM
Amazing!!! I love the pop of blue with the lamps. You make every window come alive with the story to go with it. Excellent as always. ~~Sherry~~
Posted by: Sherry | March 17, 2011 at 12:49 PM
shut it down! WOW. The black shades make those lamps. Wow I am just so impressed, seriously. The chanel bag on the chair is an amazing touch. I'm so blown away, looks amazing. Bravo bravo.
Posted by: sarah | March 17, 2011 at 12:48 PM
Not surprisingly, YOU'VE DONE IT AGAIN! Fabulous dreamy little room. I again, love how you've packed a glimpse into one womans life into your stunning window!
Posted by: robyn | March 17, 2011 at 12:45 PM
Now this is what I call a Spring Fling window. So many fun pops of color and with the dash of black it is perfection!! How fun, Kathysue
Posted by: Kathysue | March 17, 2011 at 12:45 PM
Feel like I just read the first chapter of the book Growing Wild, and can't wait to read chapter two for the continuing adventures of Hampton and Warner from this dreamy dressing room! Looks stellar!
xo Cathy
Posted by: Stitchfork | March 17, 2011 at 12:44 PM
AMAZING. This is my favorite so far. FANTASTIC and FABULOUS!!!
Posted by: Muffy Martini | March 17, 2011 at 12:43 PM
Amazing. To do Palm Beach colors in a sophisticated way- that requires a talent like yours.
Posted by: Chedva | March 17, 2011 at 12:41 PM
I adore the window but I think I love the accompanying story even more. I'd read a novel about Hampton!
Posted by: Sara Jane | March 17, 2011 at 12:39 PM
SIGH..I love it all!!!! XO
Posted by: Nicole | March 17, 2011 at 12:39 PM
Once again FABULOUS! You do such an amazing job with these windows and I love the story lines you think up. I can’t believe that young lady painted the mirror frame without taking the mirror out, steady hand! I WANT THOSE LAMPS! You hit every button for a woman!
Posted by: Acquired Objects | March 17, 2011 at 11:59 AM
I don't know what I love more the window or the story! Clever, clever boys! Makes me love spring even more!!!!
Posted by: lizziefitz | March 17, 2011 at 11:15 AM
SHUT. UP. This is too fun! Love the window. It's every girl's dream!
Posted by: Kelley | March 17, 2011 at 11:13 AM