THE PICKLED HUTCH

The Pickled Hutch Reopens

2011-11-25T13:23:00.001-08:00

Join us at The Pickled Hutch

for our

Open House

This Sunday, 11/27, 11-5pm

at our new location:

1606 S. El Camino Real

San Mateo, Ca 94402

650-212-4200

The Pickled Hutch is Moving!

2011-10-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, so perhaps you have been wondering what happened to Lisa and Alfie? They used to be soooo much better at this blogging thing. I know, excuses, excuses. But we have some pretty good ones so bear with us.

We have been working on projects for the store in Pacifica and setting up our new home & garden space at Peninsula Gallery in San Mateo. We introduced Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and workshops in our store. We had Fogfest weekend the end of September which brought about a thousand people through the store. Then we have been working with a design client to prepare her home for her wedding the tuesday before Thanksgiving. And..... we hosted our very last party at The Pickled Hutch in Pacifica which was a smashing success! We all had such a blast! I have said time and time again that I truly have the best customers in the world. And am so grateful for your continued support because we could not do what we love without you.
Oh no, did I forget to mention we are moving the store on top of all that? The biggest news of all!

We are moving to a more spacious location in San Mateo! Here's a peek at The Pickled Hutch's new storefront. It even has the dutch door that I have always wanted. I'll keep you posted on the progress as we recreate The Pickled Hutch in it's new home. That's the part that is keeping me awake at night......

XOXO
Lisa and Alfie

Downward Dog

2011-10-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

Have a great day!

xoxo, Alfie

Trick or Treat

2011-09-30T17:16:00.000-07:00

We love this time of year at the store!

Handpainted Halloween signs

Handmade/Handpainted Scarecrows

Handpainted signs

Vintage Paper Mache Basket

Vintage black metal hat boxes

Cinnamon/Coffee grunged handmade soaps

Glittered skull and crossbone door hangers

Handmade coffee grunged ghosts and cats

Handmade witches booties

Handmade coffee stained mummies

And so much more....!

Happy Halloween from The Pickled Hutch!

Congratulations to Janis Turner, FB fan page gift certificate winner!

Hey everyone, it's me, Alfie!

2011-07-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I hadn't been by in awhile so I thought I would just drop by and say hello!

xoxo, Alfie

Famous Boxer Jim Jeffries at The Pickled Hutch

2011-07-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I come across that rare item that I love so much, I don't care if it ever leaves the store. This portrait is a perfect example. I purchased it a couple years ago. He stands quietly across from my desk each day poised toward the front door, the strong, handsome, silent type.

I had no idea when I got the painting that he was a famous boxer, I just knew I fell in love with this period portrait. The ironic part is that an ephemera dealer happened to walk in the day I brought the painting in and immediately identified him. Because in his previous life he worked in the boxing world. Go figure! His name was James Jackson Jeffries.

James Jackson Jeffries ("The Boilermaker") (April 15, 1875 – March 3, 1953) was a world heavyweight boxing champion. He was also a sparring partner of Gentleman Jim Corbett who taught here in San Francisco at the Olympic Club. Jeffries started boxing as an amateur at age 16 until he turned professional at age 20.
Jeffries stood 6 ft (183 cm) tall and weighed 225 pounds (102 kg) in his prime. Despite his bulk, Jeffries was a trained sprinter who could run 100 yards (91 m) in just over ten seconds, and could purportedly high jump over 6 feet (180 cm).

He was known for fighting in a crouch position learned from his trainer which can be seen in the portrait.

The painting dates to the early 1900's. The painting is of Jeffries in his prime. It is signed and the signature was extremely difficult to read but I finally figured it out. It's attributed to Earl Motter, an artist who lived down in the San Diego area at the same time that Jeffries did. Jeffries was 6 feet tall and the painting is 6'8" so it is a really impressive scale. James had a boxing barn that is now part of Knotts Berry Farm. Pretty cool find don't you agree?

What's new this week at The Pickled Hutch

2011-07-21T23:05:00.000-07:00

Summer Style at The Pickled Hutch

2011-06-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

New Arrivals in Turquoise at The Pickled Hutch

2011-05-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

Happiness is turquoise!

The Pickled Hutch tour

2011-04-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

Once again, Alfie and I have been crazy busy and so remiss about posting on our blog. We thought you might enjoy seeing what we have been up to at the store. So here is a little tour and some of the items that can currently be found at The Pickled Hutch. Enjoy!

Etsy

2011-02-23T21:53:00.001-08:00

The Pickled Hutch is back up and running on Etsy!

The above original handcrafted designs by TPH are vintage inspired and/or incorporate vintage components.

Isaac Mizrahi vs Alfie

2011-02-18T12:48:00.000-08:00

Dyed poodles are the accessory of choice in Isaac Mizrahi's Fall 2011 collection, which showed Thursday during New York Fashion Week.

Bring it Fifis ! I could own that catwalk anytime I want! Or should I say....

DOGWALK!

Love is in the air!

2011-02-14T12:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Valentine's Day and New Arrivals at The Pickled Hutch

2011-02-13T17:03:00.000-08:00

It seems I am destined to only manage one social media at a time. This poor blog has been so neglected as a result of facebook. So I have decided to host new arrivals at the store on my blog posts and it will be forwarded to the store's facebook fan page. Sorry for any redundancy folks.

We have been painting up a storm (what else is new right?) working on store projects and commissions. You'll see a few below. This has resulted in my working in the store for 40 days straight as of today. It feels great to get it all accomplished but jeesh, am I ready for a vacation!

We are going to be open on Monday on Valentine's Day from 11-5pm. If you don't have a special valentine, be your own. Treat yourself to a one of a kind bauble from Debby at Romancing the Bling. We have a fresh new inventory of her gorgeous creations as well as our usual lovely selection of jewelry. Debby will also be in the store to answer any of your questions regarding her work.

And the following is a before and after of a client piece that was commissioned for a facelift.

Hope to see some of you tomorrow. And for the rest of you, have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

California Boy

2011-01-28T09:06:00.000-08:00

XOXO,

ALFIE

Something old, something new!

2011-01-27T15:22:00.000-08:00

So after all the holiday decorations come down, what's next? Do we just wait out the post holiday and winter blues? Not if we can help it! Like you force a bulb to bloom, we are decorating in bright colors to bring an early spring cheerfulness to The Pickled Hutch. And the weather out here in California seems to be in agreement! Balmy breezes, in the high 60's, people walking around in shorts and short sleeves. Really? Really. And Alfie and I are sending our best to our friends dealing with the blizzards on the east coast. Hang in there!

We are full of color and light while the winter darkness turns to bright.

Christmas at The Pickled Hutch Pt2

2010-12-19T16:35:00.002-08:00

Please sir, can we have some more?

Said in tiny english barks!

Alfie and glamorous friend Bianca

Whadaya say we get out of here and go sniff out Santa Claus?

Christmas at The Pickled Hutch

2010-12-18T21:13:00.000-08:00

Happiest of holiday seasons to you all!

xoxo,

Holiday Open House at The Pickled Hutch

2010-11-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

AT THE PICKLED HUTCH

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH

4-8:30PM

Sometimes I wonder if I will ever be able to get back to this blog on a regular basis again. Between painting, design work, jewelry and art creations, etc....the list does go on, I am neglectful of my blog. And missing visiting with all my blog friends. It has been an interesting few months but as the holidays approach, I am coming up for air. This week jumpstarts our holiday season at The Pickled Hutch. Here are some items we have been working on and some new arrivals!

Lost Camera

2010-09-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

So yes, I am still at the helm here. Just catching a few zzzzzz's as that crazy woman always taking pictures has temporarily misplaced the camera. No wonder with all the different projects she has going on at once. Right? It's okay. A boy needs to get his beauty sleep doesn't he?

Signed, Alfie

Romancing The Bling on The Today Show

2010-09-07T11:02:00.000-07:00

I am so proud and excited for my friend Debby. Her vintage and vintage inspired jewelry line, Romancing The Bling, is going to be featured as part of a wedding accessories segment on The Today Show tomorrow. Debby sells her jewelry collection on Etsy and at The Pickled Hutch. And her highly successful wedding accessories line has been selling to brides all over the world since she started just a short 2 years ago.

Deb has been collecting jewelry and antiques for years and her jewelry line definitely reflects the romantic elegance of yesteryear. Her unique artisan pieces have that old world feel as well.

She has also been asked to participate in a trunk show at The Four Seasons in SF and will be featured in Jewelry Affair in their Spring/Summer 2011 magazine. Such great things are coming your way Deb and Alfie and I are happy to have seen your journey from the beginning.

Congratulations!

What we did on our summer vacation...

2010-09-01T08:36:00.001-07:00

Well, let me tell you about it!

First of all, it wasn't exactly what I'd call a vacation. No doggie retreats, no running the beaches or doggie spas or massages! It has been nothing but work, work,work.

I have had to supervise at the store while my owner has been working on projects around the clock. She has been soldering and glueing and glittering and beading and wiring and sanding and painting and decoupaging (whatever that means!) non stop for the store and for Fogfest at the end of this month. And that's when she wasn't working on a couple interior design projects (on what was supposed to be our days off mind you!) and on her new website which should roll out in a couple weeks. What does "take a meeting" mean? She gets really excited about it but frankly, I am just weary from it all. Did I mention she also reopened her Etsy shop? I need a vacation from our staycation!

I decided I had to take over the blog because I don't think she is coming up for air anytime soon. At least I think that is her behind that paint mask! Here's some photo's I snuck out when she wasn't looking. Hopefully she will be back here soon and I can get back to my glamorous job of modeling again!

Chalcedony Jewelry

Magnets

Aquamarine, Chalcedony,African Turquoise, Coral,Crystals

Handcrafted Gift Boxes

More Stones and Crystals

Bottle Art

Decoupage Paperweights

Naughty Lady Soldered Jewelry

Turquoise and Crystal

Ocean Inspired Bottle Art

And paint, paint, paint.

Sigh, I mean, Signed, Alfie

Almost there.

2010-07-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

Must get back to posting....

soon.

We Won!

2010-06-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

We won!

The Pickled Hutch has won Best Antique Store in the Bay Area on SF Gates Baylist 2010. We started in first place and maintained that throughout the 2 month long competition thanks to all our loyal customers and friends of the store who voted. And we were up against 41 other nominees, many of them large, well established antique stores in the Bay Area. WooHoo, I am so excited. Owning your own small business like this can be consuming, of mind, body and soul. And getting this kind of recognition from our customers makes it worth it all! We could not have achieved this without you. Thank you, thank you!

Birthday, Grand Reopening,Jewelry,Baylist Competition oh my!

2010-05-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a month this has been, full of bright spring color (if not weather!), texture and activity. Hope everyone is healthy and happy. Here is what Alfie and I have been up to the last couple of weeks.

Lovely Nicoise salad ala Todd for one of my birthday dinners. His presentation is always exquisite and his cooking tastes as good as it looks. The birthday has turned into a birthdaymonth with so many celebrations!

This is a gorgeous living succulent covered outdoor birdcage from my visit to Filoli. Isn't it amazing?

The summer house at Filoli, my favorite space of all. Take a peek inside. Full of light and those floors! I could move in and be completely happy. And of course, love the birdcage and marble pedestal.

And talking about color and texture, I had to share this bouquet my customer Beverly made for her sister's bridesmaid. Love this! The colors are so Martha inspired.

And then we threw a little grand reopening party tying it in with Sex and the City. Cosmos, big flowers pins, loads of jewelry and new vintage inventory. And look how the weather cooperated with the sun streaming in and washing over everyone. The lighting was perfect making us all glow. Or was that the cosmos???? We had an amazing turnout especially on a thursday night. The ladies had a blast shopping and getting inspired! Pix courtesy of my friend Lynn of Paris Hotel Boutique. Thanks to all who attended and congratulations to Shawn who won the $100 gift certificate. Special thanks to Mey for sharing her energy, ideas and inspirations. Girl, you run circles around me!

New line of jewelry cuffs at The Pickled Hutch by Debby of Romancing the Bling.

(My jewelry model Alfie looking like a deer caught in headlights.

"I can't believe she is doing this to me!")

We have been creating some spring inspired pieces with crystal, chalcedony and turquoise.

And a tiny peek into the design job I have been working on the last month. 40's lamps from The Pickled Hutch and the client's green glass accent pieces transition nature from outside the window into the interior space.

And last but not least, we have been in a 2 month long competition for Best Antique Store on SF Gate's Baylist. It wraps up this saturday, the 29th. At last viewing, we have maintained first place from day one and that is thanks to all of you who voted for us and left such lovely warm comments. I can't thank you enough for all your support and loyalty. I am always grateful and appreciative of all the goodwill shown toward me and my little store out by the ocean. I couldn't do it without you!

Inspiration time!

2010-05-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about tomorrow. It is going to be a day filled with inspiration. First, my friend Todd and I are going start with a tour of the SF Decorator Showcase. I have driven by this home so many times and am thrilled to see inside.

Address: 3450 Washington Street (between Walnut and Laurel Streets)

Architect: Albert Farr and his partner Joseph Francis Ward
Built in 1929 for Elsa Guggenhime at a cost of $32,231 (amazing isn't it?)

And then on to Filoli, the gorgeous mansion located 30 miles south of San Francisco. You might not know this estate by name but I bet you have seen it! See below for a list of movie and tv appearances.

Portico

Foyer

Ballroom

The pool that Crystal and Alexis fell into in their infamous catfight on Dynasty.

Film

Heaven Can Wait
Shadow of Doubt
Dying Young
Joy Luck Club
Lolita
The Game
George of the Jungle
What Dreams May Come
Stigmata
Wedding Planner
Rent

Television
Dynasty
Star Man
An Inconvenient Woman
Nash Bridges
Bob Vila’s Historic House of America
America’s Castles: The Garden Estates
In Wine Country (KNBC)
Rebecca’s Garden (HGTV)
Henry’s Garden (KRON)
The Dirt on Gardening (DIY Network)
Gardening by the Yard (HGTV)
Smart Gardening (PBS)
P. Allen Smith

Have a great tuesday everyone!

Love this!

2010-05-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

Favorite new chair.

Regale Arm Chair by Beeline Home by Bunny Williams

And for a great indepth interview with this brilliant woman go here.

How silly. I had no idea about the Kelley bag.

2010-04-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

Grace was truly the embodiment of class and style just like Audrey Hepburn, my favorite. How silly not to have tried to discover the origin of the term. I just always loved the classic shape as it transitions beautifully from vintage to contemporary style.

POMP AND POLISH

One icon begets another: Kelly’s frequent use of Hermès’s haut à courroies bag—most notably to shield her first pregnancy from the paparazzi—led the leather purse to be dubbed the “Kelly” bag, a tag that remains today. And her sunglasses are still en vogue; in the summertime, downtown Manhattan is brimming with those frames.

From Dalmas/Sipa Pres

Go here for the slide show on Grace:

The Eternal Style of Grace Kelly Features: vanityfair.com

And don't forget!

http://www.decoratorshowcase.org/showcase/home.htm

SF Decorator Showcase starts today! I have always loved this house and wanted to see inside. So thoughtful that they always schedule the showcase opening to coordinate with the beginning of my birthday week, don't you think? Are you going?

Do we really have to get up?

2010-04-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Just a little quickie.

2010-04-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a quick and easy decorating fix. A friend's daughter just got the keys to her new studio apartment today and came to The Pickled Hutch with list in hand. Everything must be small scale and have storage capability. This little unassuming cabinet was probably a home job answer to "honey, can you make me a small cabinet to store my canned goods in the garage?" And perfect for a studio apartment with one 24" wide closet. It needed a little design fix to incorporate with her more modern taste but not completely lose its original charm. Great little hinges right?

Friend's daughter is not much of a DIYer so painting or decoupage was out of the question. So I sent her off with a list of supplies for this quick and simple little makeover.

Frames were filled, measured, spaced and then glued for stability.

I couldn't get an after photo of the cabinet standing as it took a while for the glue to dry. Can't wait to see it in her new home. Final picture to follow.

SATC Momentum

2010-04-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

These photos in Vogue of SJP are absolutely stunning. She packs a huge amount of style and grace in that tiny frame of hers. May 27th. I can hardly wait. Is anyone else getting excited?

Pssst!We are planning a little something to coordinate with the premiere at The Pickled Hutch. More details to come!

And just because he hasn't been getting much space on the blog lately..........my own little fashion accessory!

Have a good Earth day!

Country Living in a double wide.

2010-04-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

My jaw dropped open when I saw these images from Theresa Smith's 28x72 foot double wide trailer in Country Living. I realize I am a little late seeing this piece but this woman is a genius with how she transformed the most basic of spaces into one of the most uniquely beautiful homes I have ever seen. Being an antique dealer gives her access to great resources but what she does with with them in this environment truly proves her statement that "it isn't the structure you live in, it's what you do with it that makes it a home." Amazing and inspiring. I want everything I see here!

Just thinking...

2010-04-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful” William Morris

I was thinking of this quote as I read my friend Lynn's post (Paris Hotel Boutique) yesterday about "juggling" it all (FB,FB Fan Page,TW,Blog,Business,life......). We are all trying to keep up with so much that we can lose sight of the quality of our endeavours. Are the watered down results worth the snippets of focus and energy we piecemeal out? Most likely not and those results are certainly not something we are generally happy or content with upon reflection. It's the old quantity versus quality issue again.

I love this quote for how it applies to our 'house' inside and out.

Self defeating messages sheltered in our thoughts, critical remarks about what we don't accomplish or finish as well as we had hoped or things we can't believe we forgot. The quote really gets to the heart of the matter when examining what's working and what's ineffective in our lives. And like we edit our physical houses annually during spring cleaning, we need to edit our internal house from time to time. I bet Martha would have it scheduled on her calendar which is not altogether a bad idea.

How often do we make lists of things we need to do around the home? Now how often do we make lists of things we need to do for our internal house? Gee, that appliance isn't working anymore, that rug looks worn out. I should get rid of it or replace it. Hmmm, that relationship, (Yes, you twitter!) isn't working out, I feel worn out. Which do we act most quickly upon?

I have this rule about shoes and clothes, probably because of those small closets I have! If I bring any new shoes home, something has to leave so the balance remains the same in the closet. It makes me survey what I have, eliminate the pair(s!) that are no longer working/beautiful and appreciate the shoes that are left as the most valuable in my wardrobe. I recommend this practice to my clients all the time. The ones who complain about too much stuff. Am I practicing what I preach when it comes to my internal house? I don' think I can say yes right now. We edit our homes when they become cluttered or congested and isn't it just as important to edit our lives just as often to keep our balance? Just thinking......

“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful” William Morris

Good words to live by.

A little saturday whimsy.

2010-04-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

You must check out this out if you love anything whimsical and french like I do. It is Susan Hochbaum's website showcasing her little film, Paris Pastry which I just found on my friend Josephine's blog, Red Thread. She is so right about the music, the font and the insightful photo's that just makes this site a sweet visual amuse bouche.

(Sshhh, apparently a book is in the works. Wouldn't this make a beautiful coffee table book?)

Thanks All.

2010-04-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

Another lovely image from Swedish Interior Design

Just a quick thanks to all who have voted for The Pickled Hutch. We are currently in first place. If you haven't voted yet, the button is on the right. And you can access The Pickled Hutch's Facebook fan page as well from the button on the right. Alfie and I appreciate your support. Okay, enough of that!

The design job I took on is going really well. My client is a doll and we are each other's guinea pigs right now. Boy is she a trusting soul!

Off to enjoy some of this beautiful sunshine out in Pacifica. The sun streams in through the front windows at the store and casts a beautiful glow on the front room, especially around 2pm. It just warms these winterized bones. Hope it's shining where you are as well. Except New York. In the low 90's, eek!

As only Martha could.

2010-04-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

Oh Martha , you never disappoint! Thanks for sharing.

Happy Easter Everybody!

The perfect bathroom.

2010-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have been perusing all my design magazines and books for inspiration for this new project. And revisited Ken Pursley's work in House Beautiful. His design is timeless and this bathroom.... is perfection.

Alfie would love sliding across those marble floors!

P.S. Okay, I'm going to go out on a limb here for shameless self promotion but I really need your vote! The Pickled Hutch has been nominated under the antiques category for SF Gate's Baylist 2010. Among like 35 other stores! This would be great exposure for my little store and I would really appreciate your taking a moment. The button is just on the top right!

And this one?

2010-04-01T09:16:00.001-07:00

Hus & Hem

I admit I am a little late discovering this site but you should go check it out. This home is currently featured and I noticed it on a couple other blogs but it is worth repeating. Love that little bright patch of color (carpet) peeking out. And the mix of vintage or vintage inspired chairs. Just a lovely, cheerful room, rain or shine. Or annual spring cold that is making me sound like Brenda Vacarro this morning! Ugh. And that's no April Fools!

How much do we love this room?

2010-03-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

From House and Home

Just love the palette and of course, I love what the article says about decorating this London home with refurbished vintage.

Thank You.

2010-03-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

To Carmen of The Decorating Diva for featuring The Pickled Hutch in her Spotlight on Design. This collaboration was a thought provoking and lovely experience. If you have not been on Carmen's blog, you have been missing out on some great design information.

To my old Noe Valley customers for making the trek out to Pacifica today. It was great seeing so many of you today and reconnecting. Your comments and responses to the new store are so encouraging.

To Mey, my new design client. Thank you for your trust, openness and great energy. It is going to be such fun working on this project with you!

All in all, a very satisfying day, right Alfie?

Tickled Pink!

2010-03-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

And not just from these pretty examples. Monday promises to be an eventful and 'special' day for many reasons. The store is open special hours from 12-5 (normally closed on mondays), going to an informal design consult with a special client (my first!) and being the subject of a spotlight on design interview on a amazing design blog (who me?). Details to follow. Wish me luck!

What is it all about?

2010-03-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

Turquoise.

What is it about this color that causes such obsession? At least in this writers psyche. I wonder if they have done studies about the changes in the brain when the eye is exposed to this color? It is the happiest, most satisfying color of choice for me right now. I have lots of that french blue/gray in my home and store but this is the color that just makes everything pop! Gives everything a modern twist.

We haven't been able to keep our turquoise items in inventory. Jewelry, painted furniture, architectural pieces. Everyone seems to naturally gravitate towards turquoise lately. Do you? And if not turquoise, what is your happy color?

Crystal & Jade vintage inspired 3 strand necklace

Pair Mid Century Italian Murano Glass and Alabaster Cherub Lamps

Ocean inspired necklace with crystals & sterling plated sand dollar charm

Red Jade & Crystal Necklace with sterling cross

Architectual piece from French Church built in 1600's

Carved turquoise and crystal necklace

A little sunshine on a rainy day.

2010-03-12T10:27:00.001-08:00

Just a fresh and pretty vignette to cheer us up on this cold day. It's raining outside but this color combo keeps it sunny inside. This vintage swan weighs a ton and would be great inside or out. Have a great day all!

Yum

2010-03-05T08:28:00.000-08:00

Lovely image of the day found at Swedish Interior Designs. Just perfection.

Can I just say LOVE?

2010-02-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

I love this. I want this. I need this.

Found on Crave:

One Jamie Joseph

Sea Blue Chalcedony Ring

jo-rr6rh

This ocean blue stone has been carefully hand-cut to reveal its subtle, irregular facets. The 20mm diameter stone is wrapped in a 14K gold bezel and set upon a sterling silver rough hewn band. Sea blue chalcedony is thought to be the color of wisdom, good for communication and brings joy to the wearer.

Tiny sigh.

Catch up!

2010-02-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

Oy, what I don't have to put up with!

Hi all! Hope your weekend is off to a great start in spite of the chilly weather. Alfie and I are going to be doing some catch up reading this weekend. We are so behind on what all our blogging friends have been doing. Hope we haven't missed too much. And if you on in town, drop by at The Pickled Hutch to say hello. We would love to see you~

Just a little redo.

2010-02-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

Just a little peek into some redo's happening at home. Now if you don't already know, I have a passion for beautiful lighting. I am always on the lookout for chandeliers and lamps to rescue for the store. But this one insisted on staying home.

I got the chandelier stripped down from a friend as she was leaving town. My wonderful friend Keith cleaned up the silver patina and wiring and I laboriously assembled those strands of crystals. At first I thought I would leave it with just the clear crystals. However, I am obsessed with this turquoise blue. I felt the little strands were delicate enough to add without it being too distracting. And they would disguise the fact that two thirds of the crystal spears were missing!

Can a guy get a haircut?

2010-02-17T10:03:00.000-08:00

Oh Joanie, I am way overdue. Can you squeeze me in this week?

Texture and Pattern

2010-02-12T09:29:00.001-08:00

There is a huge variety of beautiful textures and patterns dotted around The Pickled Hutch right now. Lots of eye candy, just perfect for Valentines or to just say I love you. Some by nature, some by hand. The coral pieces are new additions and really generous in size (8-12inches). I look around me and just smile on these gray days we have been having. Hope you are all well!

Beautiful things.

2010-02-01T12:28:00.000-08:00

Beach glass and seashells. Colors of the ocean. Always an inspiration.

Handcrafted jewelry at The Pickled Hutch.

Mother Nature's welcome.

2010-01-22T09:09:00.000-08:00

I'm sure the whole nation has heard by now of the crumbling cliff in Pacifica and the apartment building they are trying to save from falling into the ocean. It's been on all the major morning newshows. I see the cranes as I drive to work each day and the huge waves crashing out there in the ocean are truly awe inspiring and terrifying. My store is a block inland from the pier and the boardwalk for which I feel grateful. I have to say, with mother nature raging here and in southern california, I wonder if it's far enough.

This was the little hailstorm of welcome wednesday on my doorstep at the store. This all came down in about 45 seconds. It still hadn't melted 3 hours later.

We're here.

2010-01-21T09:21:00.001-08:00

As my landlord keeps saying, "it's just a warehouse Lisa". And it will always be a work in progress. But it feels like home and that's not just because I'm here practically 24/7!

And just to give a sense of scale, this beauty is 32 inches across!

More pix to follow soon! Thanks for your patience....

The Pickled Hutch Reopens!

2009-12-07T18:00:00.000-08:00

Alfie in his new sweater by the fabulous Twyla!

Well it's that time of year again and where has this year gone so fast? We have the tree up and some of the Christmas trimmings but still working on getting that holiday spirit going. It has been a difficult and stressful last few months as I am sure it has been for many of us. I think my absence here has reflected my general lack of inspiration and enthusiasm which is unusual for me. I've missed blogging and my friends here. And in spite of it all, I am grateful.

I still have choices and options and so that being said, I have decided to leave Willa Home and reopen The Pickled Hutch in Pacifica. I have been struggling with this decision for a few months and feel it is the best move for me at this time. I am so grateful for the opportunity that I was offered by my good friend but I have really missed my store.

I have learned a lot this year and am looking forward to applying that to The Pickled Hutch. I will be reinventing the look, feel and direction of my store to reflect what I have learned.

Friends have said how great it is that I am not afraid of change. I think I am more afraid of not making the change when I need to, being stuck in a rut and becoming a very dissatisfied, unhappy person. I am generally a very upbeat, positive person and have felt that part of me missing the last few months. Now I can feel it coming back as I plan out what I want to do with my store in this next phase. The creative juices are flowing again and I am optimistic once more about the future.

Timing couldn't be worse as I will be reopening the first week of January. You can imagine what my holiday season is going to be like as I prepare the store and create a new inventory over Christmas. But, friends have been coming out of the wall with their offers of assistance and help so I am blessed once again with their support. It takes a village. How lucky am I!

I'm excited to share the new space with you once it's complete which should be within the next two weeks. It will be back to business, literally at The Pickled Hutch and here on the blog.

In the meantime, happiest of holidays to all. Alfie and I are very grateful for all our friends here and wish you all the best!

Hi yall!

2009-09-23T22:14:00.000-07:00

As requested!

2009-09-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

These are some my favorite items in my Etsy store right now. Vintage French school stamps. . Can't you just imagine the different art projects you could do with these? Or just frame them as artwork!

Remember, mention that you saw my Etsy store on my blog and receive a 15% discount on the cost of any item you purchase there. Just make your purchase, mention seeing my blog and I'll reimburse you back through your Paypal.

What we did on our summer vacation...

2009-09-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

Well it wasn't really what I would call a vacation. I think I just needed a bit of a break from blogging to get energized and reinspired. I do have to say though, Alfie and I have missed you all and can't wait to catch up on your summer.

Though it was mostly work, work, work, we did manage to

1)paint my new vintage 7' cabinet. One more project down.

2)squeeze in hosting a surprise birthday party for a friend at my place

3)get away for a wonderful 4 days at the Auberge property in Del Mar and

4)finally start my Etsy store! Yea!!!!

Here is the cabinet being transformed to something a little more subtle in color. It still needs those vintage glass handles. I just know they are out there in the garage. Somewhere...

Yes, I painted the interior in the same color as the wall as I wanted the cabinet to recede a bit given it's large scale (7'tall x 4'wide).

The trip to San Diego was a quick one, only 4 days, but the most wonderfully relaxing time I have had in a very long time.

My good friend Todd generously shared his friend's offer of their condo at the Auberge property in Del Mar so we had private accommodations with a garden patio. Once we parked the car, we didn't use it again until it was time to leave. Read, hung out by the lap pool, walked the beach, barbequed, wined, dined and just had the best time. It was heaven. No time for a lot of pictures, too busy relaxing!

Alfie had a good visit with grandma who came to babysit. He didn't even miss me according to grandma! Ha!

On the way out we stopped for brunch at Hotel Coronado. I have a great piece of their hotel silver from the 20's. What a truly amazing piece of architecture it is. And of course I love the story of the ghost.

And then there is my new store on Etsy.

I have been procrastinating on setting this up for so long but finally sat still long enough to get it done. Thanks for the holding my hand through it all Deb and Leigh! You two are the best. And the most patient people I know! Now I just have to organize where I am going to store all the inventory. Check it out and let me know what you think.

One of my teacups has already been featured on Beyond the Pale! Make sure to check out her beautiful blog.

P.S. Mention that you saw my Etsy store on my blog and receive a 15% discount on the cost of any item you purchase there. Just make your purchase, mention seeing my blog and I'll reimburse you back through your Paypal.

Ok friends, it's good to be back. Off to see what you all have been up to!

Grin and bear it

2009-08-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone for your patience. We will be back here after August 12th. In the meantime, Alfie sends our greetings! And thanks for your emails and comments. They keep me linked in this busy, crazy time!

Staycation

2009-07-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just one of the 100 new words to be added to the Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary.

To read more, go here. I had never heard of vlog, flash mob or sock puppet. Have you?

And I leave you with this beautiful image from the Bahamas. Taking a little blog break/staycation to catch up on things.

Skona Hem

HOBAC, are you out there?

2009-07-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

Several of us are wondering what happened to House of Beauty and Culture? Where did they go? We need our daily dose of design and wit inspiration! I tried google which sent me to an artist on Flickr who didn't know what I was asking about. Bummer. Anyone?????

P.S.
Just finally read on Pigtown Design that Walter felt his blog had run it's course. I TOTALLY DISAGREE as I know many do but want to thank you for all your past inspiration and great musical pairings. You once did a very kind post on my little store and I'll always remember you for it. Thanks again!

July 4th

2009-07-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so what is everyone doing July Fourth weekend? I'm excited it is on a saturday because that means I get 3 whole days off! Woo Hoo! Barbeque, museum, movies and possibly Alameda antique faire. Should be fun! What are your plans?

I feel pretty!

2009-06-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

And I smell better too! Thanks for working your magic Joanie, as always.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Eye Candy.

2009-06-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

Some beautiful images for your weekend from the Danish company Nostalgi Fyn. Have a good one! Off to take Alfie to the groomers! Yeah!!!

I really, really want these chairs.

2009-06-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

House Beautiful

When did she grow up?

2009-06-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this is the little girl who started starring in the Harry Potter series at age 10. She is all grown up and quite the stylish lovely young woman of 19 years now. Did you see these images of Emma Watson from her Teen Vogue photo shoot? Stunning!

Eggactly!

2009-06-19T09:01:00.001-07:00

It's Friday! Have a great weekend everyone!

Skona Hem

2009-06-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

Inspiring images from Skona Hem.

How gorgeous is this hallway in it's simplicity. Of course great bones and lighting helps!

And look what a light, airy feeling this room has even with the darker woods.

I have an antique gothic window that needs repair. I think a mirror treatment is called for after seeing this. And it just might have to stay at home!

I am definitely leaning toward removing my carpets for awhile to expose the bare wood floors. The quiet elegance of this corner is stunning.

I love everything about this kitchen.

Just perfection!

Wouldn't this be an amazing way to start your day?

Speaking of, have a great one!

New Project, Woo Hoo!

2009-06-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

So, do you remember all my dining room projects from last year? The pieces are quite different in style but I love how the paint palette pulls them together.

So here is the new dining room project! It measures over 7' tall and 4' wide. In a previous lifetime, this color would have been perfect and I wouldn't have to do a thing to it. But my current obsession with this color palette begs for a fresh coat of paint. The exterior is going to be the same color as the sideboard and the interior will get the same wash of blue gray. I am going to mirror the back of the open space for some reflection.

And of course new glass pulls.

Of course we know how thrilled Alfie is about another big paint project!

Wish me luck!

More.

2009-06-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

More beautiful images from danish bloggers. The lighting, the palette, the composition. Just gorgeous, serene style that is easy to live with on a daily basis. Nothing too precious and where imperfection is perfection!

Karin Lindstrom

And Guldkant Palivet

Alfie's

2009-06-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

18th century Swedish Sofa

So my good friend Leigh of Found, Now Home is moving to London. And when I go to visit Leigh, I also hope to visit Alfies Antique Market. Of course we know why the Alfie part is a draw. But I love the fact that it is an antique store on Church St, the same street my antique store was on in San Francisco. It looks 10 times as big and just full of treasures. "For individual pieces, you can't beat Alfies." Kelly Hoppen, The Observer Magazine, 2nd September 2007. Take a peak at some of their selection.

19th Century French painted cupboard

Iron and leather chair

French Deco Hall Stand

Pair of Barovier 1940's Italian Lamps

Pair of Deco chairs

Steel lockers, yum!

1960's Italian Console

1950's Parisi Trolley

For the birds.

2009-06-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

I was all alone at work when I heard this mysterious clatter coming from the back of the store. I knew all customers had been accounted for and noone else was there. What could that noise be? I have a huge fear of mice (so that was the first thought of course) but this sound was too loud. Second thought was BIG MICE! No. Slight tremor perhaps had unsettled some merchandise and it was getting ready to fall? No, I hadn't felt anything and didn't see anything that had shifted. The noise was getting louder and more erratic. Alfie looked at me with his big brown eyes as if he was afraid I was going to ask him to protect me. What was making that racket?

Just a huge crow, that looked like it was on steroids, playing hockey on our skylight. He must have played from corner to corner (sliding off and then starting over) for 20 minutes. The sound was from the way he was picking up and dropping his "puck" on the glass! He finally flew away with it when another crow came by to ask if he could join. I guess it was a solo game!

Awwwwwww, c'mon.....

2009-06-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

Why do I have to be at work today?

I want to play!

Vito are you listening buddy?

One can dream can't they?

2009-06-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Continuing in the same vein as my last post, I wanted to share some of the Danish blogs I haunt that showcase that gorgeous Scandinavian/ French Nordic style I love. Can't read a thing on them. Doesn't matter because the pictures still inspire me to talk out loud to myself. I.E. ooh, aah, love it!, OMG, I want, sigh..........

Lilla Flisans hus

Anitas Ljuva Rum

Hvitur Lakkris

Lilla Blanka

Sanctuary

and from Sanctuary's post on Tine K

Have a great weekend and sweet dreams!

Back in the saddle...

2009-06-03T08:29:00.001-07:00

Okay, so maybe I have just been needing a little inspiration lately. And did I ever find it in my copy of the magasinet Jeanne d'Arc Living. I read about it on My Petite Maison. This is my first copy of this magazine from Denmark and it is now part of my permanent coffee table toppers. It is bursting with gorgeous photos of what they refer to as French Nordic Style. I love it!

Back in April, Leigh of Found, Now Home, tagged me to show one photo that best exemplifies my style. I can't say I have achieved it yet in my own home but over this last year, have definitely come closer. I started with a much lighter color palette of cream and gray blue and more painted pieces versus mahogany. I still need to work on layering the accessories that really bring this style to life and there is great inspiration in these photos.

After getting my copy of Jeanne D'Arc Living, there was no way I could just show you one. Enjoy!

Can the pup and I just move in please?

Always remember

2009-05-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

Per Wiki:
Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (May 25 in 2009). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the civil war), it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action.

This monday is a good day just to reflect on what those losses mean, to country and families. Every time one of my friends has visited the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, they usually went bearing a name in hand to look up. Claude D. Wilson, Lt Cmdr. He was a 31 one year old pilot in the Navy at the time he was killed. A son, a brother, a husband and a father of four.

This is a powerful monument and having a direct connection to it (their friends dad), made it so much more so profound. Rubbing and touching his etched name makes them intimate with the painful loss of a individual. The whole memorial makes one intimate with the painful loss of 58,260 men and women. I confess I have yet to make it there yet but feel the impact nonetheless. I have several rubbings of his name from friends visits.

Each name is preceded (on the West Wall) or followed (on the East Wall) by a symbol designating status.
The diamond symbol denotes that the servicemember's death was confirmed.
Those whose names are designated by the cross symbol were in missing or prisoner status at the end of the war and remain missing and unaccounted for. In the event a serviceman's remains are returned or he is otherwise accounted for, the diamond symbol is superimposed over the cross. Approximately 1200 of these are listed as missing (MIA's, POW's, and others).

My dad's status was changed from MIA to KIA in 1989 with the return of his remains and a diamond placed over his cross in 2001. This is a living monument as it continues to grow with 4 more names added in 2008.

Viewing it, you can see why it would be such an overwhelmingly emotional experience. It is important to have these haunting monuments to remind us never to forget. Yes, its a good day to reflect.

Just thinking...

2009-05-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Blogging has been such an interesting process for me as I am sure it has been for all you other bloggers out there. I have been blogging since October 2007 (I can't believe it's been that long!) and have over 250 posts(didn't know I had that much to share!). It has been fascinating seeing what direction it takes and what adventures it has led me on. I have met some really interesting, sincere, authentically nice people out there who I wouldn't have had the honor of meeting otherwise. I have gone through the "Oh no, I can't think of anything to post! I haven't posted anything in 2 days! What if noone reads this! I forgot to take pictures to go with this post! Was that too personal? Was that too impersonal? I haven't responded to a comment yet! Why don't visitors leave comments? and all the other various silly issues that arise from blogging.

Having closed the store brought another set of challenges as it was a major inspiration for my blog. Now what do I do? I have started another blog with my partner Elena. We have been so busy finding a cohesive style with our new partnership, we haven't been able to really attend to it. Soon, soon. In the meantime, I need to find a new voice for this one. Where do I want to go with it?

I haven't been posting as frequently as I used to as I have had less time with the new store. Or am I just less inspired right now? It might be as simple as taking a break or even simpler, giving myself a break. The whole blogging process as I understood it when I started, was to be an online journal of sorts, that is shared with like minded people. I have seen blogs develop into full blown business websites (smart and much more user friendly) and huge advertising forums (a bit distracting when they consume the blog but again, smart). I have seen blogging circles that have become popularity contests (I just don't have the time to visit and comment on 50 blogs a day to get those comments back. I know there are bloggers who juggle this so much better than I do!) When I look at my blog roll I see an eclectic mix of interests (I am not a purist) in my blogging connections. Those blogs are from all walks of life, not just design or home, or small business.

So where is all this leading? Good question. It doesn't feel like a rant as I write this, just my brain mulling and meandering. I certainly hope it doesn't sound like one. I just thought I had better write this all down as a way to organize my thoughts. When I realized how infrequent my posts have been lately, I thought I should step back and reevaluate, reassess why I am doing this. That doesn't mean I will give it up. Just figure out who is behind the wheel and what direction the car is going. Enough of this for now.......

That being said and to change the subject completely, I want to share what direction my artistic tastes have been leading me. I have become just a little obsessed with portraits lately for home and work. I know these aren't for everyone (Elena finds them a bit creepy,lol) but I find them fascinating! I am only keeping two of these, one,#2, a gift from Leigh's visit to Switzerland and the other, #4 because it looks like me as a little girl (or so I have been told). #1 and #6 are from the estate of Miss Romania 1929, who was an artist. She painted the first and posed for the second. Beautiful don't you think?

Have a great weekend everyone!

Grey Gardens

2009-05-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

There has been a running theme repeating itself in my life over the last couple weeks. Are you familiar with Grey Gardens? I have owned this fascinating 1975 documentary for several years. Last week I watched Drew Barrymore in her movie of Grey Gardens for HBO. Anyone see it? As an antique dealer, I kept getting distracted by the architecture and vintage furniture.

Then I was surfing and came across a slide show of the property in this NY Times Article. So what does my friend Shawn do for my birthday? Take a peak below at the birthday card he made for me!

This is the outside.

Now take a peek inside. Closer. Closer. I missed it the first time.

I am definitely keeping this one!

Rain, Rain Go Away,

2009-05-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

Lisa got the perfect cut today.

Lisa wants to go out and play.

It shouldn't rain on Lisa's birthday!

Nothing like fresh cut and color to make a girl feel ten years younger. Thanks Todd, best friend and master stylist.

Giveaway News!

2009-05-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

Little Leigh of Found, Now Home is having her monthly giveaway. Smart girl is combining her Etsy shop with her giveaway. Go over to check out the details!!!!!!!

DON'T LET MY BOY DOWN!

2009-04-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

HEADLINE READS:

SHOCKING RESULTS LAST NIGHT ON AMERICAN IDOL! ADAM LAMBERT IN BOTTOM THREE!

I generally don't watch AI very early in the season because, well, sometimes it seems like a train wreck as they nastily weed through the contestants. But this year, this contestant has really caught my attention. He is ready to produce an album. He has dramatic showmanship, an amazing set of pipes on him and puts 125% into each performance.

He has been the show darling for the last several weeks and has consistently received well deserved praise from the judges. He reminds me of the styling of the artists and music I was listening to in the 80's when I was a huge new waver. Maybe I like him so much because he takes me back to my youth. Oops! Did I give something away here? It's okay mom, everyone still thinks you are 49!

But then horror of horrors, this week Adam was in the bottom three. How could that happen and is that a good thing? Did we all get complacent thinking he was a sure thing so we don't have to vote? Did he get a little too comfortable? I wish he had chosen the middle ground when asked which group he belonged to last night, the top or bottom 3. It came off a bit cocky and made quite a statement when he ended up in the bottom 3. Careful Adam, you haven't won yet! And I promise I will vote next week.

See tuesdays performance of Feeling Good.