Archives: October 2012

the right light: all fixtures are not created equal

When I heard of a Brooklyn design studio making contemporary light pendants inspired by the energy forces of the cosmos and tension/compression structures (like that of the Brooklyn Bridge), I was intrigued. The concept seemed a little “airy-fairy”, but interesting … Continue reading →

Hurricane Sandy

In preparation for the Frankenstorm forecasted to hit the East Coast sometime Monday, The Modern Sybarite will not be posting until Wednesday 31 October. Keep safe! image credit: Flickr / NASA Goddard Photo and Video

a movie still of 1880s Parisian street life – the work of French artist Jean Béraud

While we often think of the work of the Impressionists in the second half to the 19th century, there were more realistic painters and many of these had a huge following. One such artist was Jean Béraud (1849-1935) whose work … Continue reading →

design shopping challenge: 4 sophisticated room dividers from around the world

One important aspect of interior design is the ability to delineate spaces or create the impression of space where there is none.   And one of the oldest tricks of the trade is the use of screens. Today, I feature 4 … Continue reading →

versatility and sophistication in the interiors of über designer Alberto Pinto (rip)

Argentine-Moroccan interior architect Alberto Pinto is one of those rare jewels in the design world that can literally design any style of interior regardless of its extravagance or minimalism.  Who would have thought ALL the images in this feature are … Continue reading →

the practical art behind alessi’s table lamps

From juicers to teapots, one can hardly say that Alessi’s products are boring or run-of-the-mill.  However mundane, Alessi has made it an integral part of their business to “design” and manufacture products that are aesthetical pleasing as well as very … Continue reading →

art deco style for the tabletop: Georg Jensen’s bling

Wearing my art advisor cap, I often encourage my clients to buy decorative arts that have a use.  As an example, this pair of beautiful  art nouveau / art deco  open silver salts by Scandinavian designer Georg Jensen can readily be … Continue reading →