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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

My Style Evolution, part II


I'm admittedly new to the architectural part of this business so I only recently discovered there was name for that classic style that I've grown up with, that easy California look that's both casual and elegant, indoor and outdoor. Cliff May and The Modern Ranch House epitomizes that perfect blend. From Hope Ranch to La Quinta, this is how I grew up...how I live now. Since I opened this shop I've heard his name tossed around here and there, but mainly hear about the strict mid-century heavyweights like Neutra, Lautner and Eichler.


I was wearing Sonia Rykiel and Azzedine Alaia at 18. I was ordering Thierry Mugler and Claude Montana before I could order my first glass of wine. When I figured out a way to get paid to shop (working in wardrobe for TV/film) I was in heaven.  
At a certain point, some time later, my closet and my home decor became mirror images. Nearly always pure white(any time of year) and add in interesting things I've picked up from different people and travels. A crisp-white blouse, white levis and huaraches. A long , low sofa and armchairs in white linen with seagrass underfoot. A dreamy, creamy outdoor daybed with a navajo blanket and a tons of geraniums and succulents in terra-cotta pots and like California, seasonless. This is Cliff May. Once I discovered him there was an instant connection, an understanding. Every page of this book was like a family album, so familiar and comfortable. Not at all the stark coolness of the mid-century design in all today's architecture mags. The Modern Ranch House, is for me, like coming home.