Other than Brooke Shields and Phoebe Cates, I was never aware of models by name. Not until I lived with three cheerleaders in college was I introduced to the concept of "super model." I came into decorating the same way. I read and I tore and I saved, but it took a while for me to begin to recognize designers. That mirror, above, did it for me with Phoebe Howard.
From a long ago Southern Accents feature, that mirror introduced me to the world of Mrs. Howard, Phoebe's shop, and the amazing work that she and her husband, Jim, both do.
It's a world of casual elegance, of relaxed refinement. Many people seem to be yearning for pretty rooms, uncomplicated beautiful spaces.
Phoebe's work combines a traditional foundation with an understanding that we have evolved; mid-century tables, fresh fabrics and contemporary art co-exist beautifully in her spaces.
And now we don't have to wait and hope for a magazine feature. Phoebe has published a new book, The Joy of Decorating; Southern Style with Mrs. Howard and she is offering Mrs. Blandings's readers a discount.
If you buy the book from her site HERE and enter the code MBJOD you will receive the book, normally $50 at 20% off (that's $40 for the math-challenged.)
Another bonus for ordering from the site is that you will receive a prize. Included with the book will be Mrs. Howard's Favorite Paint Colors, which is a handy little supplement organized by palette for wall, ceiling and trim.
All images courtesy of Mrs. Howard.Labels: design books, Designers
