One of the many highlights of my book tour was visiting my sweet friend, Dottebob Andes, in her chic Philadelphia-area home. Prior to my visit, I was aware that Dottebob and I had a lot in common, especially our shared love of "the classics". (That would be classic décor, not classic literature- although perhaps we have similar taste in books, too.) Like me, Dottebob, who is a well-regarded decorator, has an appreciation for bright colors (especially blue and coral), prints, Chinoiserie, and the sense of coziness that fabrics bring to a room. But not until my book was published did I realize just how simpatico we are.
Shortly after she read my book, Dottebob sent me photos of her home, explaining that she lives with most of the classic furnishings about which I wrote. Sure enough, many- if not most- of my book's entries can be found in Dottebob's home. There are examples of Chinoiserie, portières, leopard print, needlepoint, trompe l'oeil, singerie, exotic prints, garden stools, trellis, slipper chairs, skirted tables, and, well, I could go on and on. Dottebob's home is like In with the Old come to life. If I didn't know better, I would think that we had been separated at birth.
When I visited Dottebob, I was struck by how closely her home and her personality are intertwined. Dottebob's home is a reflection of her warmth and generosity, her enthusiasm for socializing and spending time with friends and family, and her passion for decorating. She is surrounded by things she loves and treasures that have meaning to her. In my mind, all of these qualities represent the true meaning of decorating.
I'll leave you with the photos I took during my visit. Looking at them reminds me of what decorating is supposed to be about.
All photos are the copyright of Jennifer Boles/ The Peak of Chic
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