Nantucket by Design

September 27, 2023 Sara Hillery

I was thrilled to travel to Nantucket over the summer for the 2023 Nantucket by Design, a fundraising event organized by the Nantucket Historical Association.

This marked my first time visiting this charming island, and, although it’s only 14 miles long and less than four miles wide, Nantucket really packs a punch in terms of history, design, and nature inspiration.

Nantucket is famous for its weathered grey and fresh white exteriors, cobblestone Main Street, and an abundance of nautical inspiration.

Traditional grey-shingled homes and buildings often hide whimsical and quirky interiors. Almost half of Nantucket is permanently protected open space, which means that visitors like us can easily enjoy the island’s natural resources.

The conference included wonderful programs, panels, and speakers. Getting to chat with old friends and make new ones is always a highlight at design events, especially when those chats take place on the water…

In my free time, I explored the island with my husband and got a glimpse of why Nantucket is such a popular vacation destination.

We visited the two of the island’s three iconic lighthouses including Sankaty Head Light and Brant Point.

And of course, we made time to indulge in my favorite habit of poking around antique stores!

We also took advantage of the gorgeous weather by spending as much time outside as we could. We ventured out on beach and bluff walks to admire the impressive homes and the equally impressive surrounding views.

Of course, we also partook in enjoying fresh seafood from lobster rolls to oysters to fish tacos. A few of our favorite places included Cru Oyster Bar, Topper’s at the Wauwinet, Galley Beach, and the Chanticleer.

After a wonderful week spent exploring and learning, I cannot wait to journey back to Nantucket for another visit.

Here are a few more of my favorite Behind-The-Scenes snapshots of my time on island:

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Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian Adventure

July 9, 2023 Sara Hillery

Venture far enough South, and it seems that everyone that you meet has stories tinged with loss and resilience about the hurricanes that have shaped the local land and livelihood. The citizens and business owners of Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian - two small cities located on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi - certainly do.

Every summer, my family and I spend time along this special stretch of the Gulf Coast. And during each visit, we are always inspired by the area’s indomitable spirit and determination to honor the past while celebrating the present.

In 2005, the eye of Hurricane Katrina tore through Bay St. Louis with a fury unmatched, leaving behind devastation beyond measure. The catastrophic storm shook the very foundations of the historic homes and buildings that had once stood as silent sentinels along the coastline.

Amid the wreckage, these coastal communities banded together to embark on a long journey of rebuilding and revitalization - in a place where the spirit of resilience flows as steady as the Mississippi.

Bay St. Louis:

As architects and builders descended upon the region, Bay St. Louis focused on its future while working to preserve its rich heritage and strong architectural influences from its early European, African, and Creole inhabitants.

Today, Bay St. Louis stands as a quaint and charming coastal town where time takes on a slower pace - making it the perfect place to stop before or after a full day of boating adventures on the bay.

The Bay:

Water from swampland, streams, and the Mississippi Sound converge in the Bay so depending on where you venture, its salinity and depths vary.

The Bay’s calm waters offer a haven for seekers of adventure and tranquility alike. Whether you find solace in paddle boarding or waterskiing, appreciate the peace and patience of casting a fishing line, or enjoy embarking on day trips to its small nearby islands, the Bay can be your oyster.

Pass Christian:

Located a few miles over the Bay St. Louis Bridge, stands Pass Christian- a city that earned an impressive architectural reputation during the 19th and early 20th centuries for its beautifully crafted vacation and permanent homes.

Take one trip down the live oak lined Scenic Drive Historic District in Pass Christian and you’ll see why the beachfront area is nicknamed the “Newport of the South.” The expansive lawns and wide porches (some of which are two-story) capture the laid-back elegance of this coastal town.

Local Recommendations:

Oysters: The Oyster Bar at 200 North Beach is a must-try in Bay St. Louis.
Ice Cream: For the best dessert in Bay St. Louis, head to The Creole Creamery for a treat - Their Cookie Monster flavor is my favorite!
Coffee: One of my family’s favorite places to stop in Pass Christian includes Cat Island Coffeehouse - a coffee shop sharing a space with independent bookstore, Pass Christian Books.

I am already looking forward to our next visit to Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian - two cities with enduring Southern charm that have weathered long seasons of loss, rebuilding, and renewal.

Show Off Your Collection

May 31, 2023 Sara Hillery

Baseball cards, My Little Ponies, dinosaur figurines, dolls, and so much more: some of us are born collectors, and we begin accumulating from an early age. As adults, our interests change and diversify, and the resulting collections become a perfect way to personalize our homes. Instead of stuffing your collectibles in a closet or crowding them on a tabletop or mantel, showcase the items that give you pleasure and that make your home unique.

A collection of wax seals might seemed destined for a desk drawer, but we framed sets of them for a cool, historically-influenced yet non-traditional display that beckons guests to come closer for a better look. The wax seals match well with the surrounding rich, warm wood paneling and are offset by gold frames.

In the same home, lighters gathered from around the world (and through time) make a playful, artistic statement when spaced throughout a wall.

Be fearless with what and how you want to frame items in your collection. Vintage swimsuits are too cute to stow away in an old chest. The bold colors and throwback designs make for a nostalgic trip into the past while simultaneously and subtly helping form future dreams of beach time.

Photo Credit.Velvet & Linen

We adore the way that a collection of rainbow glasses and goblets becomes the star of this space. Set against a clean, white backdrop, the carefully curated, gradual color changes create an almost magical effect.

Photo Credit.A Beautiful Mess

Repurposing elements of your collection, as this collector did with her milk glass, is a sneaky way to keep them useful and occupying prime counter real estate. Contrasting with metallic bangles and other multicolored jewelry items, the white of the glass even makes the space appear tidier.

Photo Credit.Craft O Maniac

In addition to showcasing goods you have spent a lifetime gathering, displaying your collection is also a great way to keep travel memories alive. Plates selected from antique piles at the Marché aux Puces in Paris or haggled over in a Moroccan medina will find a happy home on walls or in hutches, where they can regularly be admired in their handcrafted, perfectly imperfect glory.

Photo Credit.Centsational Style

If you have a family heirloom that’s too fragile to frame or in poor shape, consider using the services of Oprah-approved Shana Novak, aka the Heirloomist. A still life photographer, Novak captures beloved and prized possessions (like this wine cork collection) through a distinctive lens and turns them into gorgeous, modern prints.

Check Them Out

Got a handbag, hat, shoe, or jewelry obsession? Give your cherished objects some time in the sun, especially when they aren’t often taken out and about in daily life.

Photo Gredit. This is Glamorous

Collections help your home reflect your passions and your pastimes, so save the closet space and storage bins for mismatched socks and your kids’ Shopkins, and give your favorite things a chance to shine…and perhaps inspire another collector.

Mother's Day Gift Guide

May 5, 2023 Sara Hillery

When I was thinking of ideas for a Mother’s Day gift guide, I kept coming back to one word: joy!

Motherhood is complicated and ever-evolving, yet being a mother to my three children is ultimately one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. Mothers are experts at juggling a million things while making the world feel safe and loving, so I wanted to focus on bringing the mothers in our lives as much joy as possible.

Pickleball Paddle:

Have you been bitten by the pickleball bug yet? These paddles are reason enough alone to start playing. Named after beloved towns and in a variety of stripes, gingham, patterns, and appealing colors, the paddles are lightweight, eye-catching, and as sweet as the brand’s name: Tangerine. P.S. They also have a Mother’s Day bundle on sale!

Puzzle:

Doing puzzles is a prime example of a simple joy. Anyone who has ever fit that last piece in to complete a puzzle knows how satisfying it feels. This particular puzzle will inspire Mom to seek the most basic pleasures with illustrations of fresh berries, flowers, crayons, and music. Moms with older kids will cherish the opportunity to do a puzzle together, but if you are gifting this to a mom with young ones, throw in an IOU for some babysitting time so that she can puzzle in peace.

Bouquets: With How-To Tutorials by Laura Dowling, $35.00

Design Book:

Flowers, a perennial Mother’s Day favorite, last for only a moment, but Bouquets: With How To Tutorials will give Mom the inspiration and skills to create floral showpieces for any desired occasion. This beautiful book by Laura Dowling, former White House Chief of Floral Design, breaks down bouquets into simple, manageable steps and is organized by emotions and feelings. Dowling also has a book devoted to wreaths for every season!

Shiatsu Massager:

Okay, so it’s not the most design-friendly Mother’s Day present, but this portable kneading massager will be a guaranteed winner especially since moms are always carrying a heavy load (literally and figuratively). The massager works on the neck, back, shoulders, and even on legs. Did we mention it has healing features too?

Meaningful Donation:

For the mom who has everything she wants and needs, consider making a Mother’s Day donation in her honor. In Richmond, I recommend our local Habitat for Humanity and Little Hands Virginia, which provides essentials to economically disadvantaged children in the first years of their lives. Earlier in the month, I partnered up with Little Hands Virginia for Richmond’s inaugural Spring Tablescapes Showcase - Stay tuned for more on this wonderful event in the next blog post!

A Mardi Gras Table in Richmond

February 17, 2023 Sara Hillery

While we may be miles away from New Orleans, the spirit of Mardi Gras is alive and well in Richmond, Virginia!

As a New Orleanian and proud member of the Krewe of Hermes, my husband couldn't let this year’s Mardi Gras festivities pass us by without celebrating in our own way. We wanted to bring the magic of Mardi Gras to our home and host a dinner party for our friends in Richmond to introduce them to some of our family’s most beloved traditions. So tonight, I am celebrating Mardi Gras in style with a dinner party filled with delicious food, great company, and cheer.

To start, I set the table with dainty floral plates, green wine goblets, and lavender napkins to reflect the traditional Mardi Gras color scheme. I love the freshness of the Wedgwood Avon Lavender salad plates and layered these on top of Wedgwood Traditions dinner plates.

Previously purchased gold chargers and blue placemats from my personal collection anchor the table setting. The glassware includes green wine goblets handmade in Poland coupled with vintage and collected antique glasses. Polished Chantilly silverware adds high shine to the muted tablescape while gold metal masks introduce intrigue to the scene.

For greenery, I placed fern leaves and a preserved boxwood ball on top of a lavender runner. I handpicked flowers including Lenten roses, Hellebore flowers, baby’s breath, daisies, and purple Aster and added these blooms to various antique silver bud vases collected over time. Finally, I sprinkled in a few figs throughout the table to add interest and depth.

Meanwhile, sparkling beads, doubloons, and parade throws adorn the floating shelf in the Dining Room’s alcove, paying homage to the iconic traditions of Carnival.

Tonight’s Cajun-inspired dinner menu is fit for a king and includes chargrilled oysters, filet, green beans, rice, and a bowl of my husband’s famous gumbo- a dish as flavorful as it is comforting. And of course, we are indulging in Randazzo’s classic king cake paired with Bluebell vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Here is to a night to remember as we celebrate Mardi Gras with good friends and good food, even from afar. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

How to Show Love through Your Home

February 13, 2023 Sara Hillery

Valentine’s Day is here- but I don’t think that you need a designated day to show love for the people that you care for the most in your life. I believe that you can make your home a place where residents and guests alike will feel the love any day throughout the year with just a few simple adjustments. In the words of bell hooks, “Love is an action, never simply a feeling.”

Design your space for every age and stage:

Interior design is deeply personal. While your spaces should work for you, it’s also important to make accommodations for the wants and needs of others around you.

Perhaps you have aging parents and want to make their guest room as comfortable and safe as possible. Adding extra pillows and blankets for comfort, moving furniture pieces around for easier navigation, and even putting a nightlight in the bathroom can help them feel more welcome.

For younger guests, a basket of toys or puzzles will be an instant win (and can easily be stashed away when your little visitors leave). It’s an unwritten rule that the toys at someone else’s house are always more fun to play with! And with the kids occupied, Mom or Dad may even get the chance to sit down and relax.

Adorn your space with flowers:

Flowers on Valentine’s Day? Not exactly groundbreaking (though I’ll never turn them down!).

But buying, giving, and displaying flowers “just because” will give everyone who sees them a boost. A bouquet on a bedside table, an arrangement on your partner’s home office desk, or even a bud vase with a single bloom in the bathroom can add a little life to a space.

For a longer-lasting option, choose a succulent or another unfussy plant like an orchid.

Celebrate on a regular basis:

Too often, we feel like we have to save certain elements of our home and life (using our best china, uncorking that specially purchased bottle of wine, etc) for the biggest special occasions. But life is too short not to be celebrated and enjoyed!

So dine by candlelight, draw a bubble bath with those overpriced suds, invite friends over “just because” and have their favorite snacks and treats on hand.

In today’s busy world, a little time and effort will make someone immediately feel loved.

Create spaces to honor your past, present, and future:

Feeling noticed and seen is an integral part of feeling loved. Have photos of your favorites out and on display.

If your best friend from college comes to visit, set out (or move to a more prominent position) a favorite framed photo of the two of you. She’ll feel a part of your life even when if there are usually thousands of miles between the two of you.

For your family, create a bulletin board or calendar space where you can celebrate today’s phase of life. Some fun ideas include:

Showing off your child’s latest creations
Picking a date for a family afternoon of hot chocolate and board games (or whatever activity you’d all be excited about) and marking it on your calendar
Putting up a dry erase board where people can doodle or leave each other love notes

This special family space will serve as a daily reminder of your connections.

In with the Old and In with the New

January 24, 2023 Sara Hillery

Although the saying goes, “Out with the old, in with the new”, I think there should be an asterisk when it comes to interior design. Instead, “In with the old AND in with the new” reflects my penchant for creating spaces that combine the history and quality of old pieces with fresh style, new materials, and modern sensibilities.

I have had a soft spot for antiques since I was young because my mom has always been an avid antiquer. On family road trips, we made time to stop and look for the one thing that we couldn’t live without and the story that went along with it.

And maybe because of this, I have always loved history and learning about how each design era, phase, or fad is a reaction to something going on politically in the world. And to this day, the history buff in me is delighted to come across furniture or art that captures a particular place and moment in time.

But at the same time, I love how new textures, colors, and forms make a space feel fresh and current. I believe that you can have your cake and eat it too when it comes to combining trends yet making designs feel classic! Today, I want to share a few examples of how to do this in your own home.

One of my favorite tricks for mixing old and new is to include a small detail with big impact. Adding a funky goat leg on a stool or table leg is an easy and whimsical way to add playfulness to a space without it seeming totally out of place.

Confession: I had antique chairs in my kitchen for a while but I kept needing to repair them. At the time, I had young children and was looking for a more kid-friendly solution during a season of life when I valued ease, comfort, and durability. I bought several ghost chairs, which are super easy to wipe down and pair well with my table despite being stylistically different. Acrylics and antiques look fantastic together!

I don’t have to worry about spills or messes- and the chairs help this space feel more open and airier.

New fabric can equal new life! Another quick yet transformative fix for antiques and older pieces is re-upholstering. You’d be amazed at how different a room can feel when you swap out the tired fabric on even one chair or sofa. Updating this settee with a dark pink and white damask gives it a modern flavor. If you’ve got some basic DIY skills, you can try tackling reupholstering a simple shape yourself, or you can leave it to the professionals.

A fresh coat of paint is all that it takes to bring an 18th-century furniture style into the present day. With the Chippendale chair’s classic shape, you can go bold and bright with your color choices. In this room, the chairs look fresh and fun and complement the bright white decor and vivid blue details.

Finding playful yet refined and timeless ways to mix and match antiques with newer pieces and elements is our brand’s bread and butter. As 2023 begins, I am more inspired than ever to help clients create spaces that reflect their varied style preferences and to show that some design rules are made to be broken (or at least bent) to fit today’s lifestyles.

Pantone Color of the Year: Viva Magenta

January 20, 2023 Sara Hillery

Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year, Viva Magenta, bursts with vibrant energy. This strong color in the red family may be too extra as an “all over” color- However, used sparingly, it brings a surprising liveliness and fun-loving sensibility to the spaces it graces.

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Slide 1: Kip Dawkins Photography, Slide 2-5: Gordon Gregory Photography

Scroll through for a few of my favorite Viva Magenta (and Viva Magenta adjacent) items to add a bit of this color’s brightness into your life!

Try out this year’s color without the commitment: on your nails. Such a vibrant nail color will give you an instant lift whenever you look at it, even if it’s during your fourth zoom meeting of the day.

Magenta Silk Dupion Gathered Lamp Shade, The Ginger Jar Lamp Co., $131

This silk dupion lampshade will add a fun touch of whimsy to any room! Pair it with a sleek modern base in black or white for a dramatic contrast or experiment with pattern for a playful accent.

Dip-Dyed Alpaca Throw, Casa Branca, $465

This dip-dyed alpaca throw will instantly zhuzh up a plain sofa- and feels super luxurious to cuddle up with!

'Sissinghurst with Blue Bowl' by Dana Gibson, Scout Design Studio, $660

I love local RVA artist Dana Gibson’s still life paintings, and this print with its bright background will instantly infuse personality to even the most ho-hum room or hallway.

Seaweed, Blackwell Botanicals, Contact store for pricing details

This gorgeous seaweed, with its ruffle-like appearance, is a very cool, unexpectedly chic addition for nature lovers.

Visit Ibiza without leaving the coziness of your own home with this coffee table book that is made to be displayed and admired.

Ikat Silk-Velvet Cushion, Matches Fashion, $120

Ikat is always in style!

Dessert Plate Set of 2, La DoubleJ, $125

I love the contrast of this 3D geometric pattern on a round plate!

A simple pitcher in a striking hue.

A touch of the tropics for your next dinner party!

Flower Quilted Placemat - Pink, Furbish Studio, $11

I cannot get enough of this cheery batik print!

Icon Pink 24-Pc Setting by Sabre, Gracious Style, $486

Love this classic flatware set in an unexpected color!

I love these tumblers – There is something so fun about their shape!

Color Block Tissue Box, Jaye's Studio, $64

This tissue box cover in such a bright color is way too happy!

Love these napkin rings in an orchid motif as a fun way to dress up your table!

A stylish diffuser to add a sophisticated fragrance to your home.

These are the sweetest candle holders!

White & Pink Beaded Floral Motif Handbag, The Well Appointed House, $151

A classic pattern meets peak glam. How fun are these beaded details?

Hexagon Beeswax Candles Pack - Raspberry, Matilda Goad & Co., $55

These cheerful tapers provide a little more style than your typical candle.

Scallop Edge Napkin in Pink & Azalea, Matouk, $135

Perfect year-round from Valentine’s Day to Christmas!

Bohemian Floral Lavender & Rose Napkins, Pomegranate, $56

Add block print details to your table for a chic and casual look!

Southern Living Holiday House: Behind-The-Scenes

December 21, 2022 Sara Hillery

For Southern Living, I decked the halls and trimmed the tree in blue ribbon for a fresh and icy take on traditional Christmas décor for the magazine’s Holiday House feature. And since the article hit newsstands, my family and I have dodged the question, “Does your house always look like that?” with wry smiles.

This photoshoot captured a special moment in time, and I called upon an entire team of helpers- from friends and family to professionals- to get each room camera ready. The process of preparing to shoot an entire home for a national magazine is multi-layered- and always more fun than work! In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite Behind-The-Scenes moments and some insight into our methods.

While the essentials of great design were there, the saying, “The cobbler’s children have no shoes” resonated with me during the initial preparation for this feature. For the past 10+ years, I have been focused on Client projects and building a team- priorities that tended to take precedence over my own home’s interior design. But the honor of being photographed by Southern Living prompted me to re-evaluate my space and take an honest look at what some of my favorite rooms would look like through a shiny lens.

For the magazine, I agreed to design a blue Christmas-themed spread. And in the weeks leading up to the photoshoot, I felt in my element- flexing a creative muscle that I usually save for Client work. But during this season, I was also my home’s loudest critic. Constant ideas on how to refine my space raced through my mind: Should I recover my two sofas from brown to blue? Well, if I do that, I’ll have to buy a new lampshade. And if I buy a new lampshade, I should probably just replace this lamp.

While tedious, these last-minute changes only enhanced each room and continued to add hints of blue throughout the project. After I selected additional blue art pieces and called in professional art hangers to install these, I felt quietly confident that the major design elements of my home were ready to present to the world.

Next, it was time to shift gears and focus on decorating for Christmas and refining the details. Enter KK Harris, who helped me style the shoot and work on a plan of attack for conquering the “To-Dos.” While my family always decorates for the holiday season with garlands and multiple Christmas trees, having a stylist proved to be incredibly helpful- especially when pressed for time.

I am always dreaming up holiday tablescapes and wanted to make sure that this one stood out! So at the eleventh hour, I sought out vintage napkins and had them custom monogrammed by my friend, Simply Blessed. My mom came over early to help polish silver until it gleamed and glistened. And before we knew it, the photographer, Alison Gootee, knocked on the front door. It was showtime.

As they say, the devil is in the details- and I am very appreciative of all of the work that went into styling for the camera. The stylist arrived with additional complementary greenery for each vignette- and as much as I love gardening, it was wonderful to have KK’s take on the floral arrangements.

Moreover, she prepared endless festive food and drinks for the camera including peppermint bark and hot cocoa. It was difficult not to enjoy these treats before they were photographed! And during this busy season, one of the best perks was that KK and my mom even wrapped presents for underneath the trees (way ahead of when I typically get these set out!) while my daughter cherished entertaining KK’s son.

As the rooms were styled, we examined each shot with Alison to determine what might be out of place or need to move. And no matter how much we thought we had each shot ready; we always saw something to improve on in the camera. It was so wonderful to observe Alison’s process- and with each passing shot, take a deep breath, and savor the moment.

As chaotic as this season proved to be, I was able to rejoice in it alongside such a dedicated team who helped me attend to every detail when every detail mattered. Almost one year later, the Southern Living Holiday House feature captured a labor of love on glossy pages- preserving extraordinary memories that will last a lifetime for my family and team. Thank you to everyone who helped to realize this opportunity. Enjoy some of my favorite outtakes below!

Gift Guide

December 14, 2022 Sara Hillery

The latest Sara Hillery Interior Design Gift Guide is here! Scroll through to find the perfect gift for the most fun-loving friend or family member on your list!

Suzanne Kasler: Edited Style, Barnes & Noble, $57.50

The queen of edited elegance released a new book!

Palm Beach Playing Cards, LouLou Baker, $32

These cheerful playing cards provide a little more style than your typical red or blue set.

How fun are these metal earrings? Everyone on my team has a pair!

Chinoiserie is always in style!

The Perfectly Imperfect Home by Deborah Needleman, Barnes & Noble, $32.50

Such a happy book on how to decorate and live well.

Custom Backgammon Board, Nine Fair, Price and availability varies

A custom backgammon board brings back a classic game in updated colors.

Combed Marble Daily Planner, Papier, $32

This simple and bright planner will keep you organized in style in 2023.

I love the curves and color on this lantern sconce!

Virginia Mammal Pillow, Sara Hillery Home, $300 each

So excited about these winning pillows in last year’s “Made in VA Awards.”

Party Tumbler (Set of 6), Zafferano America, $159

I love this tumbler – There is something so fun about polka dots on a table!

Too Much Needlepoint Pillow, Furbish, $104

This needlepoint pillow in such a bright color is way too much fun!

Michael Aram Pink Dogwood Napkin Rings, Moda Home, $100

Love these napkin rings in a dogwood motif as a nod to my home state of Virginia!

Mally’s Little Handbook, Mally Skok Design, $22

My friend published this book last summer and it still is a favorite!

Goat Leg Leather Upholstered Stool, Sara Hillery Home, $1,500

Anyone who knows me knows that I love anything that looks like it can walk.

K&K Interiors Preserved Boxwood Single Ball Topiary in Pot, Amazon, $89

A simple topiary can elevate any space.

Citrus Clementine Folded by Gina Langford, Dogwood Hill, $48.75

These are the best notecards! I included a custom set in my Lenox Hill tablescape.

20 Piece Bamboo Flatware Set for 4, Sara Hillery Home, $36

A touch of the tropics for your next dinner party!

Set of 4 Batik Placemats in Coral, Amanda Lindroth, $45

I cannot get enough of this cheery batik print!

12-Piece Melamine Bamboo Dinnerware Set for 4

Add bamboo details to your holiday table and celebrate the season in style

Peak fashion meets peak comfort. And how fun are these pom-poms?

Scalloped Napkin, Sara Hillery Home, $30

Perfect year-round from Mardi-Gras to Christmas!

Thanksgiving Tablescape

November 8, 2022 Sara Hillery

Happy Thanksgiving from my table to yours!

This season, I have been inspired by the simplicity of the original Thanksgiving- and have sought to design a humble, earthy tablescape as a reminder of the holiday’s central message of gathering, sharing, and giving thanks.

A Touch of the Tropics:

Despite the forecast, I have been embracing inspiration from the tropics!

This bamboo tablecloth serves as a playful foundation while its brown hue allows this base layer to remain somewhat muted and very versatile.

Touches of bamboo seem to evoke a casual elegance – and I simply cannot get enough of this natural element! Since designing a table for the 2022 Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Gala, I have been incorporating bamboo silverware into my recent place settings. This bamboo flatware set now available on Sara Hillery Home acts as an additional cheerful nod to an island paradise.

These natural elements work in tandem to add texture as well as echo the familiar warm palette associated with autumn.

Chargers and China:

How fun are these green scalloped rice paper placemats? They are another earthy yet elegant base for today’s place setting.

In addition to the down-to-earth placemats, blue gold-rimmed China and white bamboo plates are layered on top of one another for a polished yet relaxed look.

Garden Centerpieces:

When tablescaping, be sure to include greenery! Even modest garden herbs in terracotta pots can liven up a table. Moreover, garden herb centerpieces can add an aromatic scent to an already delicious meal!

Upcycled Napkins:

This season, I have been inspired by the resourcefulness and practicality of the original Thanksgiving and sought to reuse elements- including these napkins- from my personal collection.

Another way easy way to add interest to a tablescape includes alternating napkin patterns. Deviating away from formal and traditional monogram linens, I mixed pink batik napkins with a blue block print pattern which resulted in a vibrant, eclectic blend. I even chose to forgo a napkin ring!

These simple napkin choices can create a casual and welcoming atmosphere.

Gratitude Notes for Guests:

Finally, handwritten notes of gratitude for each guest act as name cards.

I am hopeful that these messages of appreciation remind each guest how extraordinary they are and that they have a meaningful souvenir to take home.

Thank you for following along!

3 Ways to Infuse the Warm, Cozy Color of Orange Into Your Life for Fall

September 27, 2022 Sara Hillery

Fall is (almost) officially here, and lately we’ve been seeing an influx of a somewhat polarizing seasonal color: burnt orange. Some people agree with Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: “Whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed.” Others love the color that instantly reminds them of favorite fall activities like pumpkin picking, trick-or-treating, or pumpkin-spice-latte-drinking.

Our take? Orange may not be a match for pink, but in deep, rich shades it can be surprisingly versatile and chic. Warm and welcoming hues feel invigorating and youthful--just steer clear of bright, electric oranges, which trend toward the artificial. To show you how we would integrate orange, we’re showcasing three examples that range from a pretty considerable commitment to the color to just dipping a toe in (literally). Embrace orange at whatever level you choose, but don’t be afraid to try a new-to-you hue!

This study highlights how orange can be tastefully incorporated throughout a room without being garish or dominating. We used richer shades of orange to create a space that feels vibrant yet calm and professional. The deep orange armchairs are sumptuous and illustrate how certain oranges can act almost as a neutral, playing well with blues, grey blues, and beiges. The rug, trimmed and patterned with orange detailing, helps tie the room together. Orange doesn’t scream here; it beckons, creating an inviting and surprisingly classy ambiance.

You don’t have to feel that it’s necessary to commit to a piece of furniture or a larger room element: try out some orange accent pieces to see if you warm up to this versatile color. Pillows or throw blankets are a great place to start as they are a minimal investment and can be easily swapped out. Or bring the color into a space naturally: cut branches with leaves that have turned a rich orange and arrange in a vase to give life to a room. Orange flowers such as begonias, lantanas, tithonia (or Mexican sunflowers), carnations, or coreopsis are also colorful options.

Still not convinced? Take the color out for a spin! Orange infuses sweater, shoes, earrings, and a clutch with an unexpected pop of color and energy so swap in something orange for your typical go-to colors and observe how it makes you feel. It may give you just the lift you need for a marathon pumpkin carving session!

Back to School and Work From Home Desk Set Ups

August 30, 2022 Sara Hillery

Whether summer is a whirlwind of activities, vacations, and camps or a time when we simply savor evenings on the porch and more laid-back schedules, we like to use the back-to-school time for a full family work-life recalibration. For our kids, it’s been months since they sat at a desk or did homework, and we’ve also found ourselves working from places outside of the office more frequently as well (especially when the local pool has wifi).

Everyone could use a fresh start getting back to the grind, and having an appealing homework/work-from-home arrangement makes us feel motivated and organized. We combed through some past SHID designs to give you ideas for making the back to homework/work transition as seamless as possible for you and your family!

One of our favorite family work and homework set-ups! With wraparound desk space and a tucked away bookshelf, this office is cheerful, minimal, and ideal for co-working, even if your “co-worker” is concentrating on mastering the alphabet.

Let’s get real: sitting at a desk for hours can be a drag, so why not inject a hefty dose of color and fun? Bright pink adds energy and allure, while a multitude of cabinets and drawers make it easy to keep the desk clean and organized.

This sweet bedside desk is simple, warm, and welcoming. Getting kids used to having a quiet space of their own to draw, dream, or read is an important way to help them build good study and learning habits for years to come!

It’s not a traditional desk, but this cozy yet spacious banquette can serve as the perfect place for a homework session. The light-filled space works just as well for younger kids who might need a little more oversight while parents make dinner as it does for older kids who host a group project session over snacks.

Calm and compact, this desk set-up doesn’t require much space, but it’s inspiring in its simplicity and usefulness and ideal for kids (or adults) who need to remove as many distractions as possible in order to focus.

Savor The End of Summer (with a designer's attention to detail)

July 27, 2022 Sara Hillery

Ahh, summer! We love engaging ALL of our senses this time of year. From admiring the vivid colors of hydrangeas in bloom to smelling sweet honeysuckle to reveling in the sensation of jumping in the pool after a sizzling hot day, summer is a sensory feast, and we never get our fill. Despite our attempts to slow time down, the season always seems to go way too fast, so before we slip into fall, we wanted to share a few of the ways in which we plan to savor the end of summer.

FRUIT PICKING

Selecting fragrant, warmed-by-the-sun fruit yourself is next level fun, especially when kids get involved, so an orchard outing is on our August calendar. After the picking comes the best part—dreaming up and then making pies, crisps, jams and syrups (as well as freezing some our hall for mid-winter when we’ll be craving fruit). We’re hoping to snag some peaches before making a fall trip for apples and pumpkins!

FLOWER PRESSING

I have fond memories of pressing flowers as a child and gifting them to my mother. Now as a designer, I love the idea of extending the life of favorite seasonal blooms including hydrangeas, daisies, and zinnias and framing them for a simple, yet timeless display. There are plenty of flower press kits for purchase, but if you have a little time and some basic materials, you can make your own.

TIE DYEING

Nothing says “summer camp” like good old tie-dye and with good reason: it’s a fun outdoor activity for all ages! Playing around with different patterns and folds will take your design to the next level, but you can also improvise with color and style. If you already have enough tie-dyed shirts to last a lifetime, consider giving linen or cotton placemats, napkins, towels, or tablecloths a visually striking—and playful—upgrade.

EASY OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING

Our favorite summer memories often involve low-key cookouts, barbeques, and hang outs that naturally come together after long days at the pool or post-Little League game. We fully embrace these spontaneous gatherings (especially when there’s a slip ‘n slide involved), and we recommend having the ingredients on hand for a few favorites that come together without much fuss. S’mores, a shrimp boil, watermelon (either by itself or as part of a feta salad), cheeses with an assortment of crackers, and fruits and veggies that are easy to grill are among our staple entertaining standbys. Insider scoop: grilled pineapple topped with ice cream is a homerun every time!

FARMER’S MARKET

Who doesn’t love a farmer’s market? Between the visual array of seasonal produce, the smell of flowers, the delicious try-before-you-buy tasters, and the sound of people chitchatting about their favorite vendors and afternoon plans, it’s a true sensory heaven as well as an important community space that honors and celebrates local growers and makers. I am always inspired when I visit our local farmer’s market, whether it be a result of seeing the rainbow of fruits and veggies or hearing how a vendor turned an interest in fermentation into a tasty side hustle. I can’t make summer last forever, but squeezing the enjoyment out of the season’s simple pleasures makes every moment sweeter.

Bordeaux to St. Emilion and back! An architectural tour of French wine country

June 15, 2022 Sara Hillery

Loved the flower display on this building in Bordeaux

Me and my France travel tour partner, my sister at Château Prieuré-Lichine

Detail of the firebacks at Château Prieuré-Lichine

My recent trip to France was inspired by a desire to see new things and to continue learning…and to have some great wine while soaking in amazing history and architecture. Craving countryside and quaint villages rather than big cities and crowds, I headed to the Bordeaux region and was joined by one of my favorite travel buddies: my sister.

Monument aux Girondins - Monument with a fountain & towering column erected to honor Girondin revolutionaries

The ancient Romans were the first to cultivate vineyards and produce wine in the area, and these centuries of tending to the land have paid off. We dove right in with a wine tour visiting Château Prieure Lichine, Château Lamothe Bergeron, Château Marquis de Terme, and Château Margaux. Among the highlights from that tour: tasting Merlot and Cabernet grapes (the Merlot were particularly delicious and snackable) and seeing how one château cleverly repurposed firebacks into wine vat doors.

Sara in front of Château Lamothe Bergeron

The Dordogne Valley is known for its epic views and cliffside villages, and our road trip adventure through several towns (including La Roque Gageac, Castelnaud, and Domme) did not disappoint. A canoeing excursion highlighted the limestone cliffs; the stones mined from them have had a starring role in buildings locally and throughout France for hundreds of years.

Limestone cave entrance at Château Franc Mayne

Later in our trip, we took a tour through limestone caves in St. Emilion. People even lived in underground limestone tunnels during the French Revolution!

A view of the aging process of the wine at Château Franc Mayne

St. Emilion, a region known for the humid, subtropical climate that contributes to the flavor of the wine, was our next stop. At Château Tertre Roteboeuf, one of the best winemakers in the region commandeers a unique operation. A nonconformist in an industry and a country both known for their adherence to specific rules, Francois Mitjaville eschews membership in the classification systems and trusts that the geography and topography of his land will continue to yield good wine under attentive stewardship. He let us sample wine right out of the barrel…and then invited us into his house. Of course, we couldn’t resist!

The Roman road that traces back to the 4th century when the Romans ruled in France

On the flip side, at Château Montlabert, two brothers (both with backgrounds in the wine distribution business) are taking the long-revered tradition of winemaking and giving it modern and more eco-friendly updates: they use air cross currents to moderate the temperature and have planted a wide variety of flora to promote biodiversity, examining the effect of these plants on their vines.

Cheers to wrapping up our amazing tour of the French wine country

In case you can’t zoom in my smile is ear to ear, this is my happy place

Memorable places we stayed or supped:

Marché des Capucins: mussels, cheeses, pâté, and oysters galore
La Tupina: traditional Bordeaux-style food, including foie gras and pâté
Chateau Hotel and Spa Grand Barrail: A beautiful space for us to lay our heads in St. Emilion after a day of drinking and biking

Everywhere we went on our journeys, we saw glimpses of the area’s storied past and also saw how the region embraced the future. For example, Château Franc Mayne’s wine is still made using wood oak casks, and a Roman road passes through the land. Nearby, I was especially charmed by the old post office, originally built in 1787, that was more recently turned into a residence.

It looks an elegant pool with floating concrete steps at the Château Montlabert wine house, but this reservoir is essential in case of a fire

On our way back to Bordeaux we stopped at Château de la Brède, where famous philosopher Montesquieu lived and wrote most of his works. It was built originally in 14th century, and our visit to this feudal castle was another exercise in stepping back in time.

For our final day, back in the city of Bordeaux, we went to an antique fair. Although we had packed our days with wine tastings and wanderings, as I perused the wares, I reflected on how the trip as a whole left me feeling inspired, revitalized…and ready for my next adventure!

Vineyards visited:

Château Prieure Lichine
Château Lamothe Bergeron
Château Marquis de Terme
Château Tertre Roteboeuf
Château de Pressac
Château Franc Mayne
Château Montlabert
Château de la Brède

Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Spring Gala

May 5, 2022 Sara Hillery

SHID was honored to create a tablescape for the Lenox Hill spring gala, held on April 28th. The work and legacy of Lenox Hill, a 128-year-old settlement house on the East Side of Manhattan that provides human services including an early childhood center, centers and care programs for the elderly, shelters and prevention programs for persons experiencing homelessness, and more, is beyond inspiring, and I was thrilled to support (and celebrate) them.

Using the gala’s theme “A Garden of Earthly Delights” as a springboard, I incorporated my favorite earthly delights from some of the places I have traveled and lived. With a focus on flowers and fruit trees, I set out to marry my traditional taste and penchant for punchy playfulness in “And the Zest Was History”, a sumptuous visual array full of whimsy and vibrant natural elements.

Many of the tablescape components are a nod to the East and Gulf coasts, highlighting the impact that Virginia, Louisiana, and Texas have made on me and my design sensibilities. The chair fabric from Palm Orleans, for example, features a lively print of oysters and citrus. Oysters are found in abundance along Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay, just south of New Orleans, and in Houston’s Galveston Bay, making them a highly personal and much beloved earthly delight!

I loved living among satsuma trees in Houston, but, since moving back to Virginia, have had to settle for a different breed of oranges. Their color, scent, taste, and the cheerfulness that they exude inspired me to choose these fruits as the table’s centerpiece as well. Pink peonies (which echo my garden in Virginia) as well as flowers found farther afield, like the orange pincushion protea flower, honor both a love of home and worldly travel adventures.

Naturally, we incorporated our signature SHID blue and white palette when choosing the table skirt, candles, napkin detailing, and even the ribbon for our favors (spoiler: they were delicious chocolate bars from local favorite Miss Maude’s). The table skirt has Virginia references hidden in plain sight: it features creatures that are prominent in the local landscape and the tableware selections include a tobacco leaf plate and dogwood napkin ring. As a nod to Jeffersonian and classical architecture, I even included a Chippendale planter on our table.

And, because every detail is worth attending to (and because I unabashedly love color and texture), I finished the table with pink champagne glasses, pink dogwood blossom napkin rings, clear glasses dotted with vibrant green, tobacco leaf salad plates, bamboo inspired flatware, and round rattan placemats.

Special thanks to our patrons: Zafferano America, Quadrille, Pomegranate Inc, Palm Orleans, Miss Maudes Bar of Chocolates, Hines and Company, and Capital Garden Products. Your beautiful products helped us create a lush and colorful table worthy of a place in a garden of earthly delights!

High Point Market Highlights 2022

April 13, 2022 Sara Hillery

We’re back from High Point Market and excited to share our highlights with you. It’s always a whirlwind few days discovering new trends and seeing favorite designers and tastemakers, and we come back feeling inspired and ready for the next design challenge.

At High Point, we saw designers mixing metals to a whole new level. Brass, black, chrome, and more: these metals were combined in spaces for glam looks that add polish and shine. Showing in groups of three or more, these mixed metals catch the eye and had us coming back for second or third looks. Keep your eye out for designs highlighting polished nickel—we sense a comeback.

Yellow was a big color at HPMKT, and it took sunny centerstage in several showrooms we saw. Blue and green were also popular shades with some displays bringing all three colors together through upholstery, fabrics, accessories, and accents. At SHID, we preach the value of incorporating even a pop of color so seeing rooms infused with both bright and subtle hues made us very happy!

The influence of British caning is still alive and well. The style at this year’s HPMKT was less “West Palm Beach” and more universal with chairs in various shades to choose from.

We spied some cool furniture pieces using burl wood. The gorgeous grain of these pieces come from knobby root growths that, when sliced, reveal an almost bubbly texture. The result: pieces with one-of-a-kind colors and patterns.

We also loved the texture on the cerused oak pieces we saw. Using a wire brush to scrape the wood yields a unique, gently distressed look.

Several showrooms featured black and white combos, including a lot of lighting with black finishes. Although this color combo isn’t our typical aesthetic, when used intentionally, it can add instant glamour to a space.

Bouclé Fabric was everywhere on sofas and accents chairs with vendors assuring us of its lasting appeal dating back to the midcentury modern time period from the 1940’s to 1950’s. You can find bouclé fabric on pieces that stand the test of time for it’s durability.

What do you think… is this for you?

Speaking of lighting, we also noticed how painted and patterned lampshades have become more common and more accessible than the previous hand-painted versions.

We love bringing the outdoors in and a few other trends we spied showed we are in good company. Grass cloth is still popular for furniture items, case goods, tables, inside drawers. And a hot new texture for indoor/outdoor is water hyacinth, woven from the plant’s leaves and stems

Easter Tablescape

April 6, 2022 Sara Hillery

Sharing favorite traditions and creating new ones with our families is one of the best parts of celebrating Easter, and we wanted our holiday table to highlight this spirit of combining the old with the new. Inspired by vintage British country style, we chose table stylings that pull together items from various generations to create a fresh, new feeling and mood for this festive holiday.

Holiday gatherings can feel frenetic so we kept our color palette neutral and calm, yet vibrant, to set the scene. A gingham cloth in our signature colors and a floral centerpiece composed of whites and light blues with a few pops of green act as the base for our decorations. Dark stained wood rattan placemats echo a prominent style from 1800s England, a period in British history when many European travelers voyaged to Asia and came back with an affection and appreciation for bamboo. King George IV’s Brighton Pavilion reflected this influence in decor and furniture, including chairs and tables featuring bamboo caning. Fittingly, we chose silverware with curved white handles that also evoke bamboo.

Juliska seersucker chargers provide a textured placeware base. Next, we selected British wedgewood plates to add a classic, crisp accent. These are topped with vintage floral plates that lend a classic British tea time feel. The devil is always in the design details, however, so we made sure to add some fun elements to the place setting. For example, I had our family monogram added to antique napkins for a personalized touch. Since dogwoods, my favorite tree, are typically blooming happily in Virginia this time of year, I chose delicate dogwood napkin rings for special seasonal flair. Finally, a little brown bunny adds quiet sophistication and a wink of whimsy for both kids and kids-at-heart.

Since we can’t resist beautiful glassware for any and every occasion, we included vintage glasses as well as a handcut Depression pitcher that was a fortuitous find at an estate sale. This holiday table was created to be simple yet elevated, with little touches that honor the joys of annual Easter traditions as well as the feelings of growth, renewal, and hope that spring brings.

Women In Design

March 16, 2022 Sara Hillery

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting five ground-breaking, pioneering women designers whose influences are still felt today. Although many female designers did not receive the claim they deserved during their lifetime, they pushed boundaries, experimented, and made incredible contributions to genres and movements within architecture, interior design, furniture design, and landscape design. Their innovative perspectives and willingness to play with color, form, materials, and societal expectations inspire us to live and design boldly.

Zaha Hadid

The term “visionary” gets tossed around these days, but Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid truly embodied what it means to redefine a genre. By bending the rules of construction to create free form organic structures made of materials such as concrete and glass, Hadid pushed rigid architectural conventions to their limit. In the process, the “Queen of the Curve” created breathtaking bridges, apartment buildings, museums, arts centers, and more around the globe.

Ray Eames

Her husband Charles Eames may be the more recognizable name, but Ray-Bernice “Ray” Eames’s contributions to art and design in the 20th century were considerable and are still being revealed. Eames experimented with multiple media including painting, graphic design, architecture, and textile design in addition to the iconic furniture design for which the Eames Office is famous.

Dorothy Draper

“Modern Baroque” maven Dorothy Parker was known for her ability to combine unexpected colors and patterns to create interiors that were lively, vibrant, and decidedly anti-minimalist. After creating what is considered to be the first official interior design business in the 1920s, Draper went on to transform hotels, restaurants, and homes. Draper also wrote a beloved design column and was a true influencer: over a million yards of her cabbage rose chintz fabric was sold in the 1930s and 40s!

Eileen Gray

Irish-born and educated in London and Paris, Eileen Gray was a trendsetter in furniture design and architecture throughout Europe. Gray pushed boundaries in both her lacquer work and her experimentation with furniture materials and shapes. Without any formal training, Gray went on to create multiple modern houses including E-1027 in France.

Gray’s designs often created a stir during her lifetime, and, like many women designers, have only recently been appreciated more fully. Fun fact: her Dragon armchair sold at auction for $28.3 million, making it the most expensive piece of 20th-century design ever sold!

Bunny Mellon

Although Bunny Mellon wasn’t a self-proclaimed designer, her style influence, her keen eye for art, and her skill in planning landscapes resonate even today. Known for the classic and traditional elegance of her gardens and her iconic art collection, Mellon redesigned the White House Rose Garden during the Kennedy administration and planned landscapes for Jackie Kennedy, the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society, the founder of Givenchy, and her own multiple homes with her husband, a wealthy businessman and horse breeder.

NOLA Insider Tips

February 15, 2022 Sara Hillery

New Orleans is known for many things including being a playground for partying, an epicurean destination, and a music lover’s haven. As my husband grew up there, we’ve made many trips to visit this unique and vibrant city, and we wanted to share some of our tried-and-true favorites in honor of Mardi Gras.

Of course, we had to begin with food! Beignets are beloved by tourists and NOLA natives alike. Who could resist this airy sugary fried dough? And, furthermore, who would want to? Grab an order (or several) along with a coffee and chicory café au lait at perennial favorite Café du Monde or head to Mother’s for heartier breakfast options. Either way, beat the crowds and get there early.

Po-boys are another New Orleans favorite. Shrimp or surf and turf po-boys from Parkway Po-boys are a must-have every time Julian returns to town. Check out this hearty sandwich’s humble history.

And we would be remiss if we didn’t include spicy, hearty gumbo. The Gumbo Shop in the French Quarter behind St. Louis Cathedral has traditional gumbo offerings including seafood okra, chicken andouille sausage, and gumbo z’herbes as well as other local favorites such as crawfish etouffee and jambalaya.

Other foodie favorites: GW Fins, Drago’s, Peche, and Galatoire’s.

NOLA without drinks? Inconceivable! Some of our favorite spots include sipping and slowly, spinning at the fabled Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone (the bar actually revolves!), grabbing a Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s and sitting in the patio for prime people watching, and bellying up for a purple Frozen VooDoo Daiquiri and some pirate lore at Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar.

Once you’ve tasted New Orleans classics, you may inspired to recreate them at home. Take a class at the New Orleans School of Cooking, and you’ll be mastering BBQ shrimp and grits and bananas foster in no time. If you aren’t headed to NOLA anytime soon, they even have zoom classes to whet your appetite.

Because there is more to do than eat and drink (although if you’re still hungry for more, we also recommend checking out the Southern Food and Beverage Museum), here are a few additional suggestions:

*Visit The National WWII museum for an in-depth history including oral histories, hands-on exhibits, and a 4-D movie experience.

*Take a cemetery tour. These somewhat unconventional walks take visitors through New Orleans history by sharing the stories of famous (and infamous) NOLA residents.

*New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, so we recommend checking out the performances at Preservation Hall or the Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta, or simply following your ears to the nearest jazz club.

*Walk around French Quarter. In addition to the tourist-y shops, there are antique stores, galleries, street performers, and a near constant flow of music.

*City Park boasts over 1,300 acres and has a mini golf course, botanical gardens, and the New Orleans Museum of Art as well as bike paths and trails. Perfect for walking off all that food (in preparation for the next meal)!