A Flemish Cabinet, 17th Century, loaded with drawers! From the 1600’s, this certainly has more unique features and details than we see in more contemporary antiques! The tortoise shell accents appear to almost be red, what I call a cinnabar red. I really see this cabinet (at about 30” high) mounted on a large block to raise the approachable height and give a more meaningful and intimate grasp of the work.

Here, a Captivating Cabinet - How would you use this? Where would you place it?

Of the many ways I see this piece, certainly, an obvious and great choice is at the end of an entrance hall - perhaps in a large niche with soft charcoal grey grasscloth wall covering. Another captivating place might be as a focal point in a public room, the living room perhaps with a dramatic red silk damask wall covering behind.

Here is some inspiration to help get ready for and welcome the unique light of the early spring - clear and warm. We have been under a proverbial cloud for so long now, but I for one, do see some light coming at the end of the tunnel, with the news of the vaccine, springtime around the corner, our world beginning to open again, and our economy starting to bounce back.

Often, with my interior design clients, the subject of “Art” has a weird way of translating as an un-spoken default of “a painting you hang on the wall”. When this happens, I know that I need to begin the process of showing and teaching about the wonderful, and deep reach that various forms of art, different media can come into play.

With the foundational components in place, this room is ready for the decoration, and appointment of the lighting fixtures, window treatments and furnishings to thoughtfully add to create a space that is truly human and a room that is wonderful to live in. Double hung oversized windows, Broken Pediment Niche and Dentil Mouldings all create classic Georgian feeling in this interior.

Given that red will be everywhere, you might take a minute to decorate with other colours this Valentine’s Day - think yellows for example! Table settings, Linens, Gift wrapping - heck, maybe a yellow Diamond Ring for your loved one??

For such a special occasion, More is More. Make an effort to put layers onto the dining table, placemats over tablecloth, a dining plate over a service plate, all the silverware and stemware placed with flowers, candles and decorative objects while you are at it. It’s called table-scape for a reason!

Brad Weesner, principle and founder of Forshew Interior Design is firmly held in the belief that Beauty creates Beauty. A smile begets a smile, and gesture is returned and beautiful things bring more beauty to your life. In turn, beauty is the cornerstone of our happiness, in all forms of beauty - love, care, service, art, animals, charity, children, loved ones, beautiful design, and the list goes on. Curate Beauty in your Life.