About Janette Ewen
Veteran stylist and trend reporter, Janette Ewen’s love of the finer things has always shaped her life. Now she’s spilling industry secrets to help you make life at home sweet. From chic décor to decadent dinner parties—living with style isn’t as expensive as you think.
Three…two…ONE! In exactly one month Kelly Wearstler’s new book arrives on bookshelves. I pre-ordered mine months ago at chapters.indigo.ca and am waiting (like a kid at Christmas) for mister postman to arrive with my new decorating bible. YES, I am beyond excited but the design work of Kelly Wearstler is that exciting. She single handedly (well, she probably used both) brought glamour, pattern, fun and colour back into the world of décor. To say she is a style inspiration is an understatement.
Her latest book, simply titled Hue ($38, www.chapters.indigo.ca), includes recent, unpublished projects (including her own home in Beverly Hills), celebrity residential decorating and some of her latest hotel designs. Hue showcases the use of colour in Wearstler’s work and explores the possibilities of colour in interior design and decorating.
I have been a fan of Wearstler’s forever. I’ve DIYed just about all of her looks and I turn to her previous books constantly for inspiration. I actually visited NYC in the spring just to see the restaurant she designed for Bergdorf’s. Of all of Kelly’s projects the two I love the most are incidentally located in two of my favourite cities.
The Tides South Beach in Miami is an eclectic blend of exotic, art deco, 70’s glam with a touch of sunshine. I love the use of soft, nature-inspired hues and the creative application of wood. The entire space evokes a state of relaxation.
Over on the west coast, the Viceroy Santa Monica, one of Wearstler’s earlier projects, still remains a favourite for me. Coming out of the era of beige, the hotel marked the “return of decorating” and the reintroduction of Hollywood glamour-inspired interiors. What I like most about the Viceroy is the bold use of a dominant colour juxtaposed with black and white. This space also features strong graphics and Romanesque patterns. Wearstler makes capturing this style look easy - try this look at home by creating your own “plate wall” as seen in the Viceroy’s patio.
For a sneak peek of Hue, visit style.com.
(Photography courtesy of Kor Hotel Management)