Giving of Thanks

When I used the phrase "the wonder and woe" of the renovation and decoration of our Tudor bungalow, I had little idea of the challenges and obstacles life would throw our way. This year we closed our business and I found a job I love at one of the oldest establishments in the US only to have it fall victim to the economy as well. Needless to say much of our renovations had to be put on hold. And through it all my rock, my shoulder to lean upon has been the immutable LondonHIM.

This weekend was a banner birthday for him and to celebrate I took advantage of his trip to Dallas to help a friend (that's my guy to a tee, generous and helpful to all) to band together an intrepid group of family and friends to tackle our living room ceiling project as a surprise for him. A bead board and beams event....to the rafters and beyond.

A bushel of thanks to all involved. Although there is more to be done, I couldn't have gotten where we are without you. Thank you for helping to honor LH on his special day!

And to the Honoree, Happy Birthday my love. You are more than just my rock, you are my dog walker, my barrista, my sous chef, my dishwasher, my DRIVER, my best friend, my sounding board, my antiquing buddy, my photographer, my mechanic, my handyman, my biggest fan, my advisor, my heart and above all my hero! Thank you for all this and more...for being my everything.

Tour: A Deco District Beauty

One fine day on a quick jaunt to over to visit the Shady Couple we spotted a sign for an open house at lovely stucco 2 story in right here in the Deco District. The home is charming and rich in architectural details which is why we love this area so much. Beautiful on the outside, it obvious when we stepped through the arched oak front doorway we had found something special that we just had to share with you. Luckily the parties involved graciously allowed us to arrange a time to come back by and photograph this stunning abode.

The home was built in 1928 and has a continental flavor Deco period homes are famous for. San Antonio is full of these little pockets of beautiful vintage houses.

Open sesame... treasures await.

The cast iron planter with majestic palm captures your attention as you enter the foyer. A small sitting area is to the right. Lets take a closer look.

Through the arched entry gorgeous loveseat , artwork and golden silk draperies adorn the nook.

And a charming little luxe chair in the corner.

And living room is to the left.

And oh what a living room it is. Where do I begin. Light fills the space from the generous bank of windows.

Artfully arranged alabaster grapes, an antique crown and beautiful lamp complete this striking vignette.

Those chests are calling to me. Lets take a closer look.

Simply sublime. The shell encrusted chests are just a hint of the homeowner's incredible collection of shells shown throughout the home and grounds. Speaking of the homeowner, by now you are probably wondering about the creator of this fabulous home. I understand from the realtor that he is in merchandising for a national department store. And the consensus of opinion of anyone touring the home while we were there..."He should be a designer!" And I say with a capitol "D".

From this angle we can see a little of where we have been and where we are going as well.

The dining room through another arch. Just past the wrought iron sconces .

The dining room is perfection in my book. I love how the homeowner has carried the same silk draperies through each and every room. Adding to the flow and harmony of the space.

The beauty of symmetry coupled with an antique portrait .

Your teaser picture. My favorite spot in the home. Love the octagon shaped tray ceiling. The antique hanging light fixtures are present throughout the home.

The den: French doors surround the room. And in the corner a bell jar sconce, one of two.

The kitchen with matching chandeliers, granite and antique shutters on the pantry.

Upstairs to the second floor.

Beautiful french headboard and gilded settee in bedroom one.

Bedroom two with this amazing tortoise daybed and bamboo benches.

Bedroom 3 of 4 with this spectacular wrought iron bed and fireplace (not pictured)

1 of 2 upstairs bathrooms. Charming original fittings with updated black and white tile.

Let's make our way outside. You won't be disappointed. Trust me.

Did I mention there is a second story rooftop terrace overlooking the garden.

And a serene spot for meditation and reflection.

Linen panels in the bays of the garage are such a chic trick. Make it look like an outbuilding rather than a parking spot. Perfect for a quick transformation into a party pavilion.

I want to thank the realtor and homeowner for allowing us to share this Deco District beauty with you. And many thanks to LondonHIM for taking each and every one of the pictures for this post (and many more). I think I see an SLR in your future.

Remember that this home is on the market.

4 bedrooms 3 baths and 2651 square feet. Brokered by

Kuper Sotheby's International realty (800) 584-5400

and Gina Candelario is the listing agent (210) 744-8265 .

Teaser

Just a quick peek at the amazing house I was able to view this week.

A simply stunning home right here

in the neighborhood. A photo tour of the property

will post tomorrow. Enjoy your Friday!

Tour: A 1920's Theater

Join me for a tour of the Texas Theater in Seguin, Texas. One of the few remaining 1920's theaters. Untouched by drastic renovations it remains much like it appeared 90 years ago.


Gargoyles still standing guard ferociously.

Stunning detail, they just don't make them like this anymore.

Amazing light fixtures - in working order.

Thank you for coming with me on this tour of a Texas treasure.