Benjamin Moore reveals 2019 Color Of The Year...
/Metroplitan AF-690
This seductive, neutral color has been selected from the Affinity color collection as Benjamin Moore’s 2019 color of the year. AF-690 is described by the paint company as calm, composed and effortlessly sophisticated.
We saw last year’s choice of Caliente AF-290 -a vibrant red- permeate the design culture as hues of red saturated the scene from hand bags to fabrics. As a culture we seem to be looking for peace and equanimity. I think this year’s selection of a versatile gray with cool undertones is just the ticket to creating an escape from the chaos that life can bring. Metropolitan AF-690 is enhanced by natural light, works well with contemporary or traditional and looks as good with ruff hewn wood as it does with a glamorous sparkle. It creates a serene backdrop for our lives -an unexpected moment of bliss! Give it a try!
Ben Moore also released a supporting palette comprised of 15 harmonious colors including earthy Kona, soft pastels and rich greens and blues.
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I am so excited to play with this 2019 color forecast! Here are just a few applications that come to mind…..
Urban farmhouse interior * Denver condo with window walls * with Bohemian tile * with a Stacked stone fireplace * to compliment wood kitchen cabinetry * Laundry/mud room cabinetry and trim color * a Great relaxing and atmospheric master bath color! *
*Photographs provided by Benjamin Moore.
*AF stands for the Affinity collection. The color specialists at Benjamin Moore have made choosing your color palettes less stressful with the Affinity collection which is comprised of 144 colors, all designed to work together.
Love the natural wood and chocolate suede with Metropolitan AF-690!
Fall getaway
/About this time every year I feel that urge to escape the routine for a few days. I love to getaway with friends for some adventure, design inspiration and R&R. Napa Valley is a favorite destination in the fall. The rattle and hum of excitement over harvest bounty and anticipation of product potential combines with the natural beauty of the valley creating a magic to behold. The area abounds with farm to table culinary delights. Use Open Table to ensure your reservations.
Brunch
Boon Fly Café is a great stop for brunch. Their spicy bacon bloody mary’s and signature donuts are delish! The industrial, urban atmosphere, creative food and amazing staff make it a fun place to enjoy a relaxing morning away with friends.
The wineries of Napa Valley are as diverse in their design style as they are in their varietals. Many lists of “best wineries to visit” can be found online. Here are three purveyors that I love…mostly for their location and staff -their grapes are good too!
Mumm Napa is a favorite place -not just for the “bubbles” and bites- the grounds are breathtaking and a it’s great place for photos! There is often live music too!
Frog’s leap offers beautiful landscapes with several secluded seating areas and pastoral views. It is important to note this is a sustainable vineyard. They have non-irrigated vines and make use of composting in addition to other methods of preserving the precious resources of the valley. I recall the hummingbirds were abundant and showing off on my last visit.
Black Stallion is another favorite of mine. It’s location has equestrian heritage and the wines are yummy! I like to enjoy tastings on the terrace. The seating is super comfortable and totally set up for intimate conversations. Bring a sweater if you choose to sit inside, as it’s always well airconditioned.
Biking through the vineyards is a fun adventure and a good way to “earn” the liquid calories! There are several places to rent bikes around the valley.
A stop at the Oakville grocery is an experience in itself. More of a market than a grocery, Oakville is a destination for foodies. I love to pick up bites for a late afternoon picnic along the vineyards. It’s also a fun place to shop for specialty food items to give as hostess or Christmas gifts! They do have picnic tables on site so you can devour your yummy selections there.
Auberge du Soleil is an exquisite experience you will not soon forget. The views are simply spectacular. An imaginative Mediterranean inspired menu of locally sourced culinary creations is paired with wine selections sure to make your taste buds dance with delight! They also offer private dining.The service is excellent!!
I recommend making dinner reservations here. Watching the color cast change over the valley as the sun goes down is a real treat!
Auberge is not only a restaurant but a hotel and resort as well. From the décor and presentation to the view, I always manage to find design inspiration here! It’s a memorable place to enjoy the company of good friends and an amazing dining experience that is well worth the price. Life is too short so soak it up today! The Napa Chamber of Commerce is a very helpful resource to help you plan your getaway.
