My French Table

Welcome to my favorite spot in our home.  Before "My French Table" came "French Table."  Randy and I traveled last summer to the South of France, staying first at an airbnb in St. Paul-de-Vence. I'd picked that spot because the artist who owned it put in all the right warmth and beauty to touch my soul.  It was relatively expensive but we were staying there for just three days before venturing on.  My justification, if one was necessary, is that I knew that her kitchen table would inspire a painting. 

"French Table," oil, 20" x 16" - private collection - what inspired my new kitchen nook

Not only did her kitchen table inspire a painting ("French Table") - it inspired my redoing this favorite nook in our own house.  And, that, in turn became another painting - this one - "My French Table." 

This gorgeous hydrangea plant was purchased at Costco on our last big shopping trip weeks ago before shutting ourselves in at home. I'm so glad it made its way into my cart. 

The table top was made from an antique door from Rust and Feathers in Lucketts VA.  (We prodded and poked every corner of the store, grounds and barn before finding this one.) Randy and I went back and forth (argued, maybe?) about the size and shape of that tabletop. The door presented endless possibilities.  I wanted it large enough to accommodate six while still feeling cozy in this snug space. After a lot of tries, I think we nailed it.

The four chairs hinted at here, curtain and chandelier came from Ballard Design.  I'd say that my "importing" that St. Paul-de-Vence inspirational kitchen seating area really started after picking that sea foam green and gold chandelier.

Eventually my house might look like a Decorators Showhouse with each room inspired (snatched?) from favorite places we've stayed.  Parts of our kitchen would mimic our home away-from home (an airbnb whose owner trained as a set designer) in Lucca. My desk inspired by one at a winery in La Morra Italy. You get the idea.

My French Table, framed to 29.5" x 29.5"