October 20, 2009

Darryl Carter + The New Traditional @ Pagoda Red


A couple of weeks ago I that mentioned I had the opportunity to meet my favorite designer, Darryl Carter, at his book signing for The New Traditional. The event was held at Pagoda Red in Chicago and proved to be a fantastic night!

The evening was captured by Chicago photographer, Calynn Berry. Not only is she talented (the pictures speak for themselves), but she's super sweet and lots of fun, too!
The Pagoda Red showroom is absolutely stunning. If you're ever in the Chicago area it's a must see. Specializing in 19th century Chinese furniture and decorative arts, this is where designers and collectors turn to as the trusted source for unusual finds from China. (That's me, above left!)
Betsy Nathan (above left) opened the doors to the showroom in 1997 after years spent living in Beijing. When I asked her if she had a favorite piece in the space, she said she couldn't pick just one. Since she hand picks each one on her trips to China, everything you see in her showroom is there because it spoke to her in a special way. 
The book signing brought a great crowd of Chicagoans in the industry to the event, all of whom couldn't say enough good about Darryl's work and The New Traditional. I personally have my signed copy on my nightstand and devour it each night before bed. 
Not only is it filled with gorgeous images, in his book Darryl walks us through his thought process for his design decisions and emphasizes the importance of comfort and practically first, He pushes us to think outside the box and ask ourselves questions like, "If you're not one to throw dinner parties, why not convert your hardly used formal dining room into a reception, second living room, or library that will get much more use?"

I'm so thrilled I had the opportunity to attend this lovely evening of honoring an industry leader, getting to know the Pagoda Red family, and meeting new friends!

*all images courtesy of Calynn Berry

15 comments:

Kimberly Merritt said...

Looks like you had a fabulous night! I also love Darryl Carter and I'm going to check out his book this weekend for sure. Pagoda Red doesn't look too bad either! Thanks for sharing this.

Molly said...

girl, that necklace you're wearing is fabulous! please share more...where's it from?

In Honor Of Design said...

oo definately cheching out his book. thanks for posting on the event. I miss the city!

Mimi said...

Looks like it was a fantastic evening! Daryl Carter is just amazing...always perfects a room like no one else with his signature neutral palette. That showroom isn't too shabby either....Thanks for stopping by. So glad you did or I wouldn't have known about your very chic blog.

Crystal @ Plush Palate said...

@Molly Jean! Thanks! It's from J.Crew (last winter). They have the best jewelry!

alexkeller said...

I love this place. I used to live down the street and wish I would have spent more time there. Truly a one of a kind!

Sarah Klassen said...

That looks like so much fun! What a great event -- it must have been awesome to see Daryl Carter. To meet someone, whose work is so great and admirable, is so amazing, and I'm certain, something you will never forget! :)

P.S I was thinking the same as Molly Jean -- great necklace Crystal!

Monika said...

Seems like a great event and you look stunning!

debra@dustjacket said...

Oh that looks like it was such fun, lucky you! Lookin' gorgeous btw.

Loved all the photo's, must get his book.
xxx

Blair Friedeman said...

Oh you lucky lucky gal! Looks like such a fun night. Wish I will still in Chicago and could have gone with you!

Apt. #34 said...

Darling congrats! What a fun event and you look fabulous, of course. I love Chicago - blogger meet up there?! (maybe once winter passes!)

_ffyona said...

Wow wow wow, sounded like a great night you had Crystal! You looked amazing! Love the necklace!

###### said...

looks like a wonderful book. thanks for sharing.

Janell @ House of Fifty said...

I love Daryl Carter's work, this looks like it was a wonderful time! Just found your blog (from your comment) looks great!
Janell

Unknown said...

looks amazing!! beautiful blog!

xoxoxo

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