aaahhhh... Barn Renovation

This barn renovation in Washington by Shed Architecture is pretty amazing. The architects did an amazing job of taking this existing structure and creating a livable home with great space planning. The open layout and reclaimed wood interior walls pay tribute to the original structure, which I love! I will say, however, that the interior design is the weakest link in these spaces.

Though I feel much of the space is "underdesigned" I also feel that it is "comfy and country", and feels very lived-in. Of course, my favorite room in the house is the bathroom downstairs. So, I saved those photos for last!

This downstairs bathroom takes the cake in this entire home. There is great use of materials (from the concrete floors, to the iron details, to the floating double sinks, the rough reclaimed walls and industrial lights). I could brush my teeth here everyday for the rest of my life, no prob!

Love y'all! Enjoy the rest of your week!

DGF

Stylist Gitte Kjaer

My inspiration today comes from the Danish stylist Gitte Kjaer. Her modern and vintage touches inside of industrial spaces are breathtaking.

Enjoy!

For these photos and more beautiful work from Gitte Kjaer, click here.

Love y'all!

DGF

Tolix Chairs

Hey ya'll! I've been seeing the infamous tolix chair all over the place! And I'm not just talking about french bistros here in NY. Are you a fan, or nah?

Since the 30's this chair has been a staple in cafe's in France. And of course, with the industrial interior BOOM, they're now sitting at dining tables across America. The problem with industrial seating is the lack of warmth and comfort, but when used right, these chairs can add instant ambiance to any dining, office, or outdoor space!

The original Tolix manufacturer in France offers them in a number of colors. They are cast steel, so they are definitely a "solid" purchase if you plan on keeping them for a while.

I've also noticed that now DWR and Pottery Barn have them, although the styles are slightly different and the colors not as variable.

I'm a big fan of this vintage looking "mint green" that they offer at Design Within Reach.

Of course, call me old school, but I still love the true vintage Tolix chairs SO MUCH MORE. Like anything vintage, they tell more of a story and create a feeling that no new look-alike can ever interpret.

Of course, the true antique Tolix chairs are hard to find and can cost a pretty penny. But, if you're into the vintage Tolix look (like I am), pick up some newbies, roll up your sleeves and DIY them (a.k.a. beat the tar out of them)! And, send me the video if you do!

Have a great hump-day!

love y'all,

DGF

images via: antiquaire, dwr, apartment therapy, design manifest, pinterest, and tolix.

Where in the world is... Dan Faires?

I know... I know... I've been MIA for a WHILE, but hear me out b/c I have multiple valid excuses:

1.) Fashion week was grueling, but I had a blast working events and building sets for Rachel Zoe, L'Wren Scott, and even an art show for Richard Hambleton put on by Vladimir Restoin-Roitfield.

2.) The previous week I was in L.A. shooting an HGTV Christmas Special that you'll be hearing more about soon.

3.) The week before that I was helping finish up this new bar on the Lower East Side called Interstate Food & Liquor. It's now complete with a reclaimed Capsule Furniture wood bar-top and some "Danmade" banquets and tables. My favorite project, though, was making the IF&L sign that hangs out front!

So, here is the deal... those of you who know me, know I'm not a big fan of self-promotion. Unfortunately, it's the nature of the beast in this business we call design. I have a thousand irons in a thousand different fires, which can be a bit stressful at times (never enough time to dedicate to mom - or anyone for that matter- on the phone... I love you mom), but I'M DOING WHAT I LOVE! Many people have blessed me with multiple opportunities to use my God-given talents, and for that, I am grateful. I am not responsible for the sole success of anything written above, I'm just 1 of MANY who are a part of exciting things going on in a very bustling city. So, I figured I would share and hopefully get myself out of the dog-house for my lack of attention to all of y'all!

Enough excuses! Here are some pics of the bar for your enjoyment!!! Let me know what you think. I look forward to getting back in the groove; finding and sharing inspirational pics/stories with all of y'all soon!