
I finally made it to Brimfield! On the last day of this past end of summer Brimfield session, my friend and I drove out early and made a day of it. It did occur to me that perhaps going on the last day was not the best way to get a good impression of all that can be at Brimfield. In fact, as a first timer, it was quite ideal. A few of the fields had already shut down, so that helped in making it more manageable. “Is that your best price” really seemed to mean, “come on, it’s the last day, you don’t really want to pack that up and haul it back, right?”
We started off meandering down the isles next to our bargain central parking spot (another perk to visiting on the last day!) It was a feast for the eyes, especially because we came with no agenda or wish list. We started snapping pictures of all the items we were going to think about, and come back to buy if necessary. Apparently that could never happen on the first few days of the market. I’ve been told, if you think you want it, get it, because it won’t be there later. Since I wasn’t in need of anything, my plan was to see everything first and then backtrack for the buys of the day.
I also checked out the hotel lounge bathroom for design surprises. It was super silver and fairly unisex, with a wing of stalls for gentlemen and a wing of stalls for ladies, both met in the middle where there were round hand washing stations which reminded me of my high school bathroom, only shinier. I can imagine a few awkward situations happening there.
I am thrilled to announce this year’s ASID NE Design Competition award winners.
Residential Kitchen, Honorable Mention: Christina Patton, CP Interiors
Residential Kitchen, First Place: Christina Oliver, Oliver Interiors
Residential Space, First Place: Molly McGinness Interior Design
Residential Whole House, Honorable Mention: Dana Keegan Interior Design
Residential Whole House, First Place: Kristen Rivoli Interior Design
Best In Show: Molly McGinness Interior Design
The awards cocktail reception was hosted by K. Powers and Company which has a beautiful showroom in Needham, MA. The presentation included photos of the winning submissions which is always great fun to see.
On our exploration of Martha’s Vineyard artisans, we were introduced to Jo Maxwell of Vintage Elements. She makes fabulous, one of a kind pillows from chenille, bark cloth and feed sacks from the 1930s – 50s. The part I loved was that they are filled with a heavy organic cotton, to make just the kind of pillow I want to sink into. Her studio was chock full of vintage fabrics of all colors and materials. I wanted to dive in and explore the stashes of cottons and chenilles. I held back. I hope to return.
Spectacular Homes of Chicago