Politics and blogging about interior design and architecture usually don’t mix.  However, we are going to make an exception today since the redesign of President Obama’s office was unveiled this week.  President Obama chose Michael Smith to decorate the most famous office in the world.  Mr. Smith’s talent as a designed can not be disputed, however the reaction to the new val office is decidedly flat.

The new office has kept many of the elements that President Obama’s predecessor had in his office.  The desk, curtains and two drop leaf tables were used by President Bush when he resided in the office.  The overall feel of the office is much less formal and approachable than previous presidents.  The color palette is very subtle and the furnishings are subdued. The office is clearly understated. Perhaps the style reflects the current economic climate?

We’re not going to state our opinion – but we’ve got to tell you we love the beautiful raised panel wainscoting!

Here is what the media had to say:

Margaret Russel editor of Architectural Digest:

“In our business, the client is always right, and from what I’ve heard, the client is happy.”

Arianna Huffington – Editor The Huffington Post:

It’s very cautious, neutral, inoffensive, neither one thing nor the other — the Audacity of Taupe

Sheila Bridges – Decorator:

Overall, I think the Oval Office redesign is consistent with the president’s message, and appropriate under the circumstances. I think it would have sent the entirely wrong message had the president and first lady (and their decorator, Michael Smith) chosen a redo that was ostentatious, showy or over the top, given the fact that most of the country is suffering from an economic recession that just won’t quit (in addition to a growing deficit, thanks in part to our involvement in two wars).

Linda Merrill - Decorator and Blogger

If we take a stroll through the history of the Oval, the Obama office is pretty much more of the same. I have to say that I think it’s pretty dull, in general. I like the idea of the quotes around the edge of the rug, but the center is blah.

Joni Webb - Designer and Blogger

Obama’s decor looks more upscale family room with its comfy chenille like upholstery on the sofas and leather on the armchairs.  Some say it looks more like a hotel lobby than a presidential office.

So what do you think?  Is this new design a hit or miss?  Comfortable and approachable or just dowdy?  Take our poll and let us know!  Visit poll on the right hand side of the blog.

Walking into the kitchen at the Yedowitz home your senses will be overwhelmed, but PLEASED from every angle. From the ceiling to the floor, nothing has been overlooked. I know we’ve show you images before of their home, but it has come to our attention that the buzz from their ultimately cool kitchen has spread again. The Danbury Newstimes is running another story about the daring duo that create Wainscot Solutions in 2005.

For more on the kitchen: watch this YouTube Video! It’s definitely in the details.

Special thanks toDanbury Newstimes for taking the time to come out and buzz about our business!

If you are a regular to this blog you are familiar with the work of photographer Michael Partenio.  Michael has photographed many of the homes that we feature on our website and blog.  He is one of the best in the business and his work has been featured in many regional and national magazines.

Michael’s latest venture is a unique accessory line named Dunes and Duchess.  The collection of lamps and candelabras was designed by Michael and his partner (in business and life) Stacy Kunstal.  Stacy work as a stylist is legendary and she is the Homes editor of New England Home magazine to boot.

Dunes and Duchess premiered at the New York Gift Show early this month and we expect to see these great lamps and candelabras in many local shops. Here is a peak at the new line.

Learn more about the evolution of Dunes and Duchess and the renovation of Michael and Stacy’s beach house on their new blog.

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