back to reality

We returned from California, and I was hit with a deluge of reality. A heatwave (98), selling a property, scorched and overgrown landscaping, helping clients, no more angelic grandparents to pass off the kids to, and a house that was used as a brand video set right before we left. Dusty and full of extra furniture.

It was time to get things in order and get back in the routine. The sprinkler has been out this whole week to return some green to the brown ground.

I don't want to complain too much, though - it's great to come home and see your house with fresh eyes. We immediately made some calls about painting certain areas and things that need to be on the wall.

I love Facebook Marketplace, especially for small art and decor; there's just nothing quite like it, and I wanted to talk about some pieces I just bought.

We needed a little more silver to brighten up the space - all our metals are an aged brass, and we need a little more shine. And black. Every time we've used black, I've loved it.

The first piece I found is this Dutch still life - not sure of the year, but it came from France. The black frame is beat up, but I like the personality. It's fine for now. Based on a little signature research, Raymond Verstraeten painted this; he died in 1947. You can see his brush bristles stuck in the paint. It's like looking through his eyes at breakfast. Paintings are pure magic to me. They are portals.

This silver shell dish is incredible. I have been looking for something along these lines for a while. This is going to go on the wall once it's polished up, right next to an abstract piece my grandmother did. A little classic/modern juxtaposition is usually something I like.

This cabinet is an Art Deco cabinet, appears to be pretty old, and has been refinished at some point. It's a little beat up, but it's going to be the kids' art cabinet as opposed to the current wire rack shelf.

What I like about these pieces is that they create a little micro theme - lacquered black borders with gold and silver accents. Although things are fairly eclectic in our home, the communication between these three will help it feel more cohesive.

Also, I've been pleased to see things are really moving along at our Arrington Woods project. We're very close to finishing our gorgeous stone gate and will have an opening party soon.

And Lot 1, which will be the peacock home for the community and only one visible from the street, is finally cleared, and construction is beginning. This is going to be really special. It's the exact kind of place I would build for myself if I had a wide lot.

A primarily single-story U-shaped courtyard style home built around a pool and gorgeous landscaping. We were initially planning a wood exterior, but are now considering stone for the whole thing. The plan takes inspiration from architect Howard Backen. I love his muscular wine country symmetry, and this is a nod to him.

I imagine this house will make a lot of appearances in this newsletter & social media over the next year.

Anyways, the break is over, the work routine resumes, and I am reminded that homes are always a work in progress.