Swoon! Interiors by Peter Dunham

This is the image that started it all for me. I have been obsessing over it for a while now. I love that this dining nook in the Hollywood Hills actually looks like it belongs in a restaurant. I absolutely love the tufted banquette seating and the fact that there are two bistro tables and two hanging lanterns. It just looks so special! It certainly would make any meal feel like an event. It is definitely going in my "dream home file". It seems like the perfect dining room for entertaining. Beautiful, intimate, and inviting...just like so many other spaces designed by Peter Dunham.

Dunham in his garden, as seen in Domino Magazine

Dunham is best known for the beautiful textiles and furniture he designs. As a matter of fact, the chairs used in my dream dining room above are the "How to Marry A Millionaire Rush" chairs designed by Dunham. They can be seen in many of his projects. Dunham's aesthetic is described as "European flair transplanted into the heart of hollywood; Peter is a rising star in the design world and brings his unique history and palette to each project". This is perfectly fitting given his use of eclectic and ethnic textiles and patterns in his work and his impressive background. To a linguist with a serious case of wanderlust like myself, Dunham's past reads like a dream. "Peter Dunham was raised in France, spent his summers in Spain, and was educated in England. After studying modern languages at Oxford University and International Business at the American University in Paris, he moved to New York where he resided for the next 15 years."

Eventually, Peter moved to Los Angeles where he has worked on numerous high-profile residential and commercial projects since founding his interior design company in 1998. He has received countless accolades for his work from some of the top design publications and is making his mark by creating gorgeous textiles along with beautiful and inviting interiors that feel livable.

The Rich Residence in the Hollywood Hills (home to the dining room of my dreams):

This is such a gorgeous room! I love the ironwork of the canopy bed, the crisp white linens, and beautiful lamps.

Incredible Tile Work in the Master Bathroom

Master Bathroom

A Cozy Outdoor Sitting Area and Fireplace



The Skaist-Levy Residence in Beverly Hills:

Dunham's Spin on Old Hollywood Glamour

Dunham used many antique pieces in this home. The upholstery on these chairs is the perfect shade of grey.

A Very Glamorous Dining Room

How fabulous is the mirrored dining table?

Brentwood House:

This is a beautifully done, traditional room. The bed clearly plays on the Spanish feel of the house itself, as can be evidenced in the gorgeous door. I love the serene color palette selected by Dunham. The drapes used on the canopy bed lend a very airy, dreamy quality to the room as a whole.

Antique furniture and ethnic touches reflect the style of the home, as well as Dunham's background.

The Dunham-Hedges Home in Cadaques, Spain:

I love that the furnishings and accessories used by Dunham reflect the gorgeous architecture and style of this Spanish villa. He stayed true to what the house was meant to be.

A Collection of Dunham's Beautiful Textiles

Hancock Park House:

Relaxed, Stylish California Living

Notice the textiles by Dunham.

Dunham's Home in Los Angeles:

Dunham lives in a 1920's Spanish compound. This room reflects the style of the home, as well as Dunham's design aesthetic. I love that Dunham's experience travelling in different countries and immersing himself in various foreign cultures has helped define his work.

Sponsor Spotlight: Plantation

Plantation is a unique lifestyle design store with two locations in Los Angeles, and a third store in San Francisco, as well as a comprehensive website that can be accessed from any destination. In addition to that, they ship their accessories all over the world and their furniture can be shipped anywhere in the United States. Plantation’s unique concept combines trendy, posh accessories with custom furniture that is made to the specifications of each client. Everything is made in Los Angeles and is fully customizable. When ordering furniture, clients can change the dimensions by up to four inches in any direction with no extra charge and they are able to choose from a vast array of finishes and fabrics (or bring in their own fabric, if they prefer), ensuring that their piece will be completely different from the next.



Plantation just celebrated its 10th Anniversary in December, proving the undeniable strength of their concept. In regards to his design philosophy, owner Mark Cole says "my design ideas are [very] visual and palpable. Seeing something, feeling it, and being motivated by it takes me in a new direction. Anytime I see something that catches my eye, whether it's in a European hotel lobby, or a friend's home, it ignites my imagination." The result is a collection that is at once cutting-edge, chic, and luxurious.




Because of the company’s ever-changing selection of stylish accessories and love of everything that is “au currant”, they are an interior design staple for celebrity clients such as Madonna, Diane Lane, Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, and Lindsay Lohan. They have also been featured in countless publications (House Beautiful, Domino, Elle Décor, Western Interiors, etc) and on numerous television shows (Top Design, HGTV, and Style Network’s Dress My Nest hosted by Thom Filicia). Plantation is the ideal store for anyone looking to create a posh, stylish, and well-designed space.

The following are some of my favorite pieces from Plantation's Custom Furniture Line. There are so many wonderful details: luxurious fabrics, tufting, nailhead trim, etc. I love that there is a vintage vibe to some of these pieces, yet they manage to feel completely current.

The Capri Chair

The Tuscadero Chair

The Remy Chair

I can totally picture this at the Sterling Cooper offices in Mad Men!

The Crown Chair

The Matador Bench

The Nikita Bench

The Van Dyke Sofa

The Roma Sofa was used by Ondine in the finale of Top Design's second season.

The Remy Sofa: I love the shape and color!

The Chelsea Coffee Table: I die over this table! So perfect and so functional. It can be used together, as shown, or the tables can be seperated. It is hands-down, my absolute favorite.

The Powell Coffee Table provides a touch of classic glamour.

The Delano Bed with Footboard

The Paris Bed

Now, on to a handful of accessories from Plantation's vast selection:

The Gallery Prism Mirror would be beautiful in any room.

I have posted about this amazing Octopus Triptych before. It makes such a statement and is actually available in a few different colors.

The Octopus is currently enjoying his moment in the sun! These hand-sculpted glass creatures are very popular and also come in several colors.

The Everest Pillows in Royal Blue

This is such a great piece! The Atomic 28 floor lamp is also available as a table lamp and chandelier.

Shagreen and Purple Plume Box

What I have shown you in this post is only a small selection of the fabulous collection of furniture and accessories available through Plantation. Be sure to visit their website for more amazing finds!

Calling All Trivia Lovers! Mr & Mrs Smith Trivia Contest

Most people who know me, know that I absolutely love trivia games! Trivia brings out my competitive side like nothing else! So, I was very excited to establish a relationship with travel experts, Mr & Mrs Smith and to have them suggest that we create a contest featuring two of my favorite things: travel and trivia!

Each contest will take place over the course of four weeks. The objective is to guess the name and location of the property I am describing. I will post a new clue at the beginning of each week during the four week period. At the end of the four weeks and after the four weekly clues, a winner will be selected at random from all of the correct entries and will receive a $100 gift card from Mr & Mrs Smith good towards a hotel stay at the location of your choice!

If you think you know the answer, send an e-mail to LDVcontest@gmail.com. Write "Mr & Mrs Smith" in the subject line and make sure to include your first and last name, the country you live in, the name and location of the property you think I am describing, along with a link to the landing page on the Mr & Mrs Smith website. Also, let me know if you would like to receive more information from Mr & Mrs Smith, including insider travel tips and details on exclusive member benefits. To be fair, only one entry will be allowed per person per contest and please be sure to use a valid e-mail address because the gift card will be sent to the address you provide!

Sample e-mail:

My Name: Jane Doe
Country I Live In: USA
My Guess: The Bowery Hotel in New York, New York
Landing Page: http://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/united-states/new-york/the-bowery/
Yes, please tell me more about Mr & Mrs Smith

The hotel that I will be featuring in the first contest is absolutely fabulous and I am sure that you will love it. So, on to the first clue!

Clue #1: Begin your journey by relishing in the fact that your destination is only a mid-haul flight away from New York City and that once you arrive, you will be treated to a chauffeured transfer to the hotel and will be able to enjoy all of the hotel’s luxurious amenities.

This opulent hotel is housed in an authentic nineteenth century ranch house built during colonial times. Its pink façade blends perfectly with the setting sun in the late afternoons, creating a romantic ambiance. Be sure to take in the stunning views from the rooftop terrace.



Visit Mr & Mrs Smith to discover the answer!

An Exciting Giveaway from Jess LC

I am thrilled to be involved in a huge giveaway from Jess LC. As you know from my previous post, they create some beautiful jewelry. However, one of my favorite lines created by Jess LC is Soc Chic. Soc Chic is a collection of "chic necklaces benefiting social causes". This is a huge giveaway because participants will have seven chances to win! Seven blogs are participating in this event.

I have the honor of presenting the Silver Lining Necklace which supports Team in Training, a cause which was started in 1988. "Runners, walkers, cyclists, and triathletes participate in the world's major marathons, triathalons, and century rides on behalf of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for medical research." This cause is especially dear to my heart, because I have a twenty-eight year old friend who recently began her battle with Leukemia. Also, with the current state of things in our country and in the world, really, I think everyone is looking for the silver lining.

All of the necklaces represent worthy causes. In order to be entered into the drawing here at La Dolce Vita, simply leave a comment between today and Thursday at midnight telling me which cause is the most dear to you and why.

Be sure to visit all of the participating blogs. You can enter their giveaways as well! While you're at it, make sure to visit Jess' fabulous blog, Make Under My Life, too. The winners will be announced on the individual blogs and collectively on Make Under My Life on Friday.

The City Sage is giving away the Pink Lemonade Necklace.

Coco + Kelley is giving away the Match Made in Heaven Necklace.

Heart of Light is giving away the Falling Star Necklace.

Design Lovely is giving away the Lucky in Bed Necklace.

Delight by Design is giving away the Good Intention Necklace.

Blah Blah Blahg is giving away a Commenter's Choice.

This Week's Quote

James Swan for Ballard Designs

Ballard Designs recently joined forces with Beverly Hills interior designer, James Swan. Their collaboration is a brilliant idea! They decided to work with a well-known designer in order to style their product line in a slightly different way. The concept is similar to what they did when they had Domino Magazine style the fabulous dining room that has appeared in their recent catalogs.

It is certainly inspiring to see the way that a talented designer would use the furnishings a Ballard Designs client might decide to purchase. I love Ballard for their fantastic and attainable array of furniture and accessories and am very excited about some of their newest products. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with James about the inspiration behind his work with Ballard.

LDV: What can we expect to see in your collaboration with Ballard Designs?

JS: The first incarnation of our relationship will be in the March/ April catalog. I was asked to take new and old products combined with my aesthetic to show clients what looks can be achieved. The overall look is traditionally based with a modern twist… fresh patterns, fresh perspective, fresh look

LDV: Do you have a favorite Ballard piece?

JS: The Eastern Writing desk in the living room (as shown in the first picture) has a beautiful scale. It works beautifully in bedrooms, small studies, and in multiple other applications.

LDV: Where did you draw your inspiration for the Ballard project?

JS: The bulk of inspiration came from the home in Atlanta that we were working in. I try to listen closely to space I am working in to see how it wants to be designed.





LDV: How would you describe your style?

JS: It is definitely rooted in the classics. I am a classicist by birth, tempered with an ongoing understanding of what modern day life requires. A room is not complete until something antique is in place, something with a sense of history.

LDV: Which room is your favorite to design?

JS: My all time favorite room to work in is the dining room. I am a big proponent of sitting at the table and lingering over a great meal and conversation with family and friends. By nature a dining room has huge functional and stylistic challenges. When you get it right, and people are encouraged to sit, linger, and enjoy conversation, I get a huge sense of satisfaction.



LDV: Who are your style icons?

JS: Alberto Pinto, Albert Hadley, and Juan Pablo Molyneux

This room was designed by one of Swan's favorite designers, Alberto Pinto

LDV: What is your idea of living La Dolce Vita?

JS: It would be centered around a manageable space, friends and family, and an environment that I am passionate about. I love winter snow skiing. My happiest moments have been at my home in the snow.

And the Winner is...

Congratulations to Sheri of Ma Vie En Rose! She is the winner of the first Decorum Design Forum Giveaway and will receive this beautiful crystal lamp by Thomas O'Brien for Circa Lighting. Stay tuned for our next giveaway which will be announced in the next few days!