1 Observatory Circle

The official Vice Presidential residence was designated by Congress in 1974. It's official name is the Queen Anne House and the property is still owned by the Navy. The 9,000 sq ft structure was built in 1893 as the official resident for the Superintendent of the Naval Observatory. The compound sits on 13 acres and staff is supplied by the Navy. The Observatory still operates as a research facility where scientist make observations of the sun, moon and planets.

One Observatory Circle, the home Joe and Jill Biden will soon occupy is in the Embassy Row area of DC. The house is painted white brick with a hip roof.

I love the all American Lenox white china and "Tuscan Classics" crystal, used in the Vice Presidential Maison. White linen napkins are embroidered with the vice presidential seal.

The 2nd family has a tradition of borrowing art and various items from museums, the dining table is on loan from the State Department.

Monochromatic furniture and window treatments bring focus to artwork. This piece is by artist Helen Frankenthaler.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone !

We have much to be thankful for in America. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect. This season is also a time of gratitude and renewal for our country. We've just elected a new President and although there is much adversity in the economy, there is much to be hopeful for. I've decided to embrace the message of hope this year and strive to bring out the best in others and myself. I believe we will again prosper as a nation but it won't be without sacrifice. There will be uncharted paths that must be taken and at times it may hurt but we will get there. When we do, we'll know what it looks like, feels like, we'll cherish it... hold on to it. I look forward to that.

The Best is Yet to Come.

These Four Walls

Whenever I visit historic Richmond,VA I don't normally think of interior design other than southern traditional but now, I'm beginning to . While traveling with my husband on business and with lots of time on my hands I discovered the most wonderful shop you would love to find anywhere....it is, "These Four Walls". Located on E. Cary St. These Four Walls is the type of home furnishings store you would expect to see in a contemporary urban city. My perception of Richmond's design aesthetic is changing. This shop is more international than most. The owners are world travelers and I discovered beautiful cabinets and tables from India, Indonesia, Mexico and China. Many of the accessories are crafted by local artist. I found Indian pieces made of reclaimed wood and teak harvested responsibly from plantations. This store has a very earthy and organic feel. You don't have to decorate your entire space with imported or sustainable items but a few pieces in a room certainly add visual interest and an eco-consciousness to your decor..... Next time you're in Richmond, do stop by.

Rob Cline - Manager/Design Consultant

How Beautiful !

Love this painted distressed cabinet.

Can't you see this periwinkle settee in a foyer?

Red high gloss Mexican chairs are great with this colorful table.