Archive for February, 2011

Zebras living in Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater

To see zebras playing in the wild along with countless species of animals is mind blowing wild. The markings or withers on the necks are what allow the zebras to recognize one another, band together, as protection to confuse other animals. It is hard to imagine why anyone would want to kill them for their hides before their natural life ends. For expressing a sort of style or statement on a floor? It is perhaps part of the reason why I have never been a fan of the zebra print itself used in interiors. Here these zebras roam freely when I saw them on safari in Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. This is where I found myself able to appreciate their unique beauty and it is truly where I think they belong, among the living.

Good in Bed

Bedrooms by Brynne speaks to Refinery29.com.

5 Quick Tricks For A Sexier Bedroom

By: Shani Silver


This Valentine’s Day, don’t forget the most important room in the house: your bedroom. If the sexy factor in your boudoir is lacking, let Chicago bedroom stylist Brynne Rinderknechtenlighten you with her top tips for some steamy bedroom romance. Whether you follow one or all, your bedroom will be ready for action. And, if you’re prepared to start from scratch, contact Bedrooms by Brynne for a full bedroom makeover.

1. Clean slate. Brynne starts fresh with a new pair of sheets. Pick the fabric that feels best to you. Bamboo, linen, or Egyptian cotton are the holy trinity of bedding. Select a color that compliments your skin-tone and always buy a top sheet one size larger than the size of your bed. The extra fabric will virtually eliminate fighting over covers, and you’ll have much more to snuggle up in. Try Elegant Linens Cap Martin Fine Bedding, prices vary.

2. Pandora’s box. Keep an imaginative, covered container bedside. Your bedroom buddy will never know what you’ve got stashed inside, be it toys, massage oils, condoms, whatever makes the mood a little steamier. Check out Juliska Harriet Black Glass Covered Urn, $475 from Elements Chicago

3. Be reflective. A strategically placed mirror can open your room up to endless opportunities. Brynne loves antique degraded mercury glass that reveals less precision in the body, and it really ups the mystery of what’s to come. Brynne’s thinking along the lines of the Massive Wrought Iron Dressing Mirror, available at 1stdibs.

4. Hot on the scent. A new, bedroom-only perfume will elevate your partners senses and hint at something new to experience. Our expert suggests hints of saffron, tuberose, and jasmine to spice things up. Try Fredéric Malle’s Carnal Flower, available for $200 at Barneys.

5. Get the message. If you’re the shy type, Brynne suggests being brave with a sexy message left for your lover in the perfect place. Have a note or even one word embroidered on a special pillow for Valentine’s Day and beyond. For help creating your message, go straight to Jolie Maison, 643 Central Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035; 847-433-4555

Props for The Dilemma

Earlier this fall I was brought in by Universal Studios through my agency, Artists by Timothy Priano, as the prop stylist for a photo shoot with Vince Vaughn. It was for the movie poster for The Dilemma. The photo was shot by the talented Andrew Eccles and produced by the charming Aya Larkin. None of the props were used in the end game as Vince Vaughn can relay all that is needed with simply one shot of himself. He was intense, all business and a handsome house of a man. I am very much looking forward to seeing the film.

Dressing Lualdi Porte

A while back I was asked by Snaidero to dress their first floor East entrance window located at the Merchandise Mart. It is a corner display of striking custom millwork by Lualdi Porte. If you ask the showroom for a tour they can take you in for a closer look to view the wine cellar display on the other side. The curves are inviting and seductive. Snaidero is an excellent portal for finely designed Italian kitchens, closets, bathrooms and custom millwork.

The accessories I chose to highlight the Lualdi millwork were selected in a neutral palette with highlights of metallics, like the Waylande Gregory vase from Elements and glass,such as the vintage wine bottles from Argentina. The key to dressing shelving is editing your pieces and attempting to make each piece meaningful. Adding a little whimsey and humor is fun as well such as the leather horse from Architectural Artifacts that is positioned enjoying the wine in the wine cellar. The coco and ivory toned Turkish rug runner from Yoruk Rug Gallery grounds the space and the natural wood pile ready for the fireplace makes it complete for a cozy feel.

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