Maintaining fresh cut flowers is a little like training the puppy, if I want positive and sustaining results, I have to put in the effort to cultivate them. I absolutely adore having flowers (not plants, these thumbs are not green) in the home. The bloom need not be fancy or exotic – in fact I treasure a bunch of daisies probably more than any ... read more
cashing in on clutter
Two years ago, I found myself starring in my kitchen cupboard at a set of darling, but ineffectual Jonathan Adler bud vases that I purchased on super duper, ‘are my eyes deceiving me’ sale. Because these were so adorable and bound to be useful, I bought 2 sets – I foresaw a trail of them as a dining table centerpiece or a tight arrangement on the ... read more
clutter free cosmetics
This may come as a surprise to some and disbelief to others, but I detest shopping. I don’t dislike owning and amassing things (obvi), but I really loathe the act of the acquisition. At the top of this (non) shopping list is makeup. I will pull tear sheets from gazillions of beauty magazines, keep meticulous and dated notes on the latest & ... read more
cooking up an open pantry
A few days ago, I visited my friend who became a recent homeowner in the darling community of Irvington, New York. Although our visit (due to her 2yr old twins’ self imposed extended nap) prevented a full excursion, I was able to surmise the town was brimming with charm. This was evident in the architectural details and craftsmen custom built-ins ... read more
amazing adam wallacavage
My first formal introduction to the absurdly talented Adam Wallacavage was on an incredibly humid July afternoon 5 years ago. He was signing copies of his photography book, Monster Size Monsters at the Jonathan Levine Gallery where my dog had been scheduled to ‘take down’ an art installation that was comprised of Mylar balloons to be later posted ... read more
making a case for books
Everyone who has a home most likely has a place to store books – whether it is a cabinet, custom built-ins, wall shelves or in my father’s case when he was in college – the refrigerator. The structure that houses one’s library should be organized in a personalized manner as to reflect the style of the homeowner. If placed properly, books can be ... read more
do-it-yourself illumination
As much as I would LOVE to hang sparkly crystal chandeliers from every ceiling fixture available, sometimes a little restrain is required. Whether it’s financially or aesthetically motivated, an empty light socket need not be boring and unadorned. Until recently, I had a lovely Le Klint 172b pendant hanging in the foyer to welcome guests upon ... read more
like sugar, epoxy resin makes everything better
I like to share, contradictory to what my astrological sign states or anyone’s spoon that might find its way in my ice cream sundae, I really do enjoy exchanging information, ideas and experiences with anyone seeking my expertise. Although it may seem foolhardy to provide detailed instruction how to create the candy coating deliciousness that is ... read more
a clutter free closet = a clutter free life
Having a business called apartmentjeanie, it is safe to assume I am a manic organizer. In fact, I have been guilty of over systemizing, which is really of no help to anyone, but we all have our compulsions. I have been indulging in my aesthetic addiction since early childhood. When I was home sick from school, I would feverishly re-arrange and ... read more
party prep for the powder room
With Thanksgiving a week behind us and New Year's Eve 30 days away, we are in the preliminary phrase of the premier party season. While most of us will be guests in someone's home, some of us will do the entertaining. Creating a festive and comfortable party atmosphere should be the priority of the hostess and this extends beyond the food, ... read more