Mexican Architecture - Villa el Cerrito

San Miguel de Allende is a town located on a high desert plateau in the mineral-rich central Mexican state of Guanajuato. It was here that Spanish colonization conceivably began in the 16th century and where I looked to find traditional Mexican architecture.

Located north of Mexico City, San Miguel's charm and preserved history draws travelers and a wide range of artists, including photographers, decorators and designers.It is here that I found Villa el Cerrito, an authentic adobe villa built by prominent local architect, Roberto Burillo. Its lush garden paradise was conceived by master New England landscape designer, Douglas MacLise, and created by local premier landscape architect, Timothy Wachter.The quality and authenticity of the design and construction is truly inspirational. I especially love these large-scale hacienda doors recessed into this entrance. The dark wood balanced against the warm tone of the stucco leads the eye up to the dark, heavy timbers above. The stone pavers reflect the cool hues found again in the stone columns and niches. Contrast of materials and colors are in harmony. Through this magnificent villa, I found interior decorator, Rachel Horn. There is continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces, comfort and elegance. The palette is uses the earth's natural material and colors. Inside, light and shadow bounce off each other through skylights, windows and openings. Light gently grazes the texture of the stucco walls. Throughout the villa and its surrounding landscape, the eye is lead through one space into another, with jewels at the end of each vista.

Mexican Architecure - Tulum

Research is often required when developing design, especially when the style draws from history. One project has invoked my exploration of Mexican design. What I've found is a country rich in cultural history and inspired by a wide spectrum of architectural styles. Mexico's origins have influenced its vast array of architecture.

To begin, I looked to the Yucatan Peninsula and a recent visit to pre-Columbian ruins at Tulum. This Mayan city is situated along a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. And though it may have been built as early as 300 BC, the majority of its buildings date between 1200 to 1500 AD. As a result of the Spanish Conquest, the Maya abandoned the site late in the 16th century.

One enters the city through a low, narrow tunnel carved into the massive stone wall. On the other side, I was first struck by the vastness of the fortress and the beauty of its locale. Surrounded by walls on three sides, the fourth was protected by the sea. Templo del Dios del Viento (Temple of the Wind God) was built on a natural rise...

next to this cove:

The rubble remains of the city walls and buildings exhibit its stone construction.

The architecture is similar to that found at Chichen Itza, but on a much smaller scale. A stepped base, serving as the temple's foundation, leads to El Castillo (The Castle), the site's most imposing building. The steps leading to Templo del Dios Descendente (Temple of the Descending God) has a similar temple substructure.
The well-preserved Templo de las Pinturas (Temple of the Frescos) is comprised of two levels and contains colored murals on its inner walls. The lower level displays a colonnade leading to an inner temple room. And, the outer temple is decorated with a series of stucco figures in bas-relief and carved masks.

Here is the detail of one corner figure:Finally, La Casa de las Columnas (The House of the Columns) has preserved its series of stacked stone columns and the remains of a thatched roof.This detail show the stone and beam construction of the door with its bas-relief figure above:

Obama Inauguration Events - Day 2

As if meeting the Obamas wasn't enough, it was just the beginning of an amazing week...

The next morning, we were escorted through the massive crowd, 2 million deep, to the Mall with a direct view of the Capitol. It was difficult to get a real sense of how many people were there until I saw us all on the teleprompter. Even then, it was so surreal. It was incredible... and freezing!

I have honestly never been so cold. It had been 70 degrees in Sacramento before I left. So, although I was layered and bundled up, I could not fully appreciate how cold it would actually be. The whipping wind was biting my face. My lips were numb. My nose kept running. But although my frozen toes ached through my wool socks, I couldn't help but feel elated.

The crowd was warm and friendly. There was an air of excitement and peace. People kept reaffirming, "We're all family today." A local woman told us what a welcome change it was to feel the flow of positive energy rather than the opposition of so many recent demonstrations.

To be there, among all the national and world leaders... and among the people... to feel the energy reverberating between us... it was truly awe-inspiring. I could feel the magnitude of his presence... the magnitude of what was about to happen. This was history.

As he took his oath of office, I felt so moved by the magnitude of these words. Upon his speech, a feeling of hope resonated through the crowd... His metaphorically outreached hands and heart spoke to the world... offering cooperation, not domination. He offered a "new way forward based on mutual interests and mutual respect... we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."

I could only be swept up by the sea of patriotism that surrounded us. It was so alive and swelling. The dream was finally being realized. And I felt proud... to be a part of this moment... and this country. Proud. Finally.

Afterward, the mass exodus was nothing I'd ever experienced. We started to walk to the metro station, foolishly thinking that we could actually get to one.

Sandwiched in tightly at times, we slowly worked our way through through the ebb and flow of the sea, ultimately, walking to our hotel in Georgetown. Incredibly though, even as we were in this gridlock of people, there was a sense of calm. Even with such an extent of confusion, so many people crowded into such relatively tight quarters, no arrests were made this whole day. In fact, I never saw anyone outraged nor felt any sense of mayhem. There was only positive energy flowing throughout the city that day. Everyone reached out to help each other. That night, we went to the ball of all balls... The Neighborhood Ball. This was the 1st ball that Mr. President and Mrs. Obama attended. At this televised ball, Beyonce sang "At Last" during their 1st dance of the evening.

The additional incredible lineup of performances included Mariah Carey, Mary J Blige, Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, Maroon 5, Faith Hill, Will-I-Am, Sting, Stevie Wonder and Shakira. Among the hosts were Denzel, Leo DiCaprio, Queen Latifah. It was a glamorous evening to wrap up our day's array of experiences. I feel incredibly privileged to have been a part of it all. And incredibly grateful to everyone who made it possible. This experience made me feel even more empowered... and ready to do my part.

Obama Inauguration Events - Day 1

I had the incredible privilege of traveling for the 1st time to Washington DC for this year's historic inaugural events. This was a trip of a lifetime. I knew that it would be an experience that I could take with me for the rest of my life. But I had no idea the extent of my experiences ahead. Obama had dedicated Martin Luther King Day as a Day of Service. In honor of this day, I attended a volunteer event at Coolidge High School. There, I had the very distinguished honor of meeting Barack and Michelle in person. They came around to meet each of us personally and to thank us for our service. I will tell you this of each of them... They challenge each of us to be a part in creating the change, not just waiting for the change to happen… not just complaining about what’s wrong, but making things right. They were both so genuine. Barack (Mr. President) has such a calming presence and ideally seeks cooperation over opposition. Michelle’s gaze bore through me, connecting to my soul while we spoke. She inspires me to be completely committed in each of my roles… as mother, wife, professional and community leader. The energy they both emanate is infectious and exhilarating. For the first time in my lifetime, I feel impassioned about my country and its leadership. I feel like, Wow, this is what being an American is all about! I'm empowered to make a real difference. This is really what I’m all about... setting the bar high... living each day of life fully… and doing little things to make a big difference. More to come on the inauguration...

France Series - The Left Bank

Our journey in Paris on this beautiful October day continued after visiting its most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower (see prior entry). We set off with map in hand. We walked through the narrow streets toward Boulevard Saint Germain. Apon arriving, we found bustling intersections filled with energy and activity. There, towering before us, contrasting against this modern-day commotion, was the 6th century church of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Seated around the plaza, we found art students from the École des Beaux-Arts, sketching their day's lesson. It was inspiring just to experience.

Across from the church plaza is the famed café Les Deux Magots, known to have attracted such inspired patrons as Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus and Pablo Picasso. The scene was so typical of French cafés. Small tables positioned tightly around the exterior of the entrance, beneath the awning, all facing the street. It is a favorite past-time to people watch while enjoying mouth-watering delights. French onion soup, quiche, baguette, tarte tatin, and of course, le café. Coffee in France is typically served strong and black in petite demi-tasse cups with cubed sugar. Once you've acquired its taste, however, there's no comparison to its aroma or body...

Pulling ourselves away from the temptation of gluttony, we continued down Rue Boneparte, passing the École des Beaux-Arts. This famous school has trained some of the world's most renowned artists and architects. American architect Julia Morgan, best known for her work on the Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, was the first female to gratuate from their architecture program.At last, we reached the stone-walled bank of the beautiful Seine river. Its numerous batobus tours were running up and down the waterway. On the opposite bank, the Louvre stood majestic and vast. Originally the royal palace, it is now the world's most visited art museum. And housing 35,000 objects, is one of the largest. (More on the Louvre in a future blog.)

The leaves were beginning to turn autumn shades. The air was crisp and clean, warming as the day progressed. We followed the river bank path, passing the Institut de France...

photo by Benh LIEU SONG from Pont des Arts

From there we could see Pont Neuf, Paris' oldest standing bridge. From this arch bridge, the eastern side of the Île de la Cité connects to the city's two banks. The Île de la Cité is one of two naturally formed island in the city, along with the Île Saint-Louis. It is the heart of the city from which all roads are calculated and its medieval birthplace. Historically, a small Gallic tribe, the Parisii, are thought to have lived on this island from the 3rd century BC-the Roman era during the Iron Age. It remained an important military and political center throughout the Middle Ages.The 16th century details and stone carvings of the bridge can be seen from below.

These projecting curved elements topping each abutment are bench seats, accessed from the walkway above. Lovers can cozy up, embraced by its curve and the knowledge that the city surrounds them. It's no wonder that this city is known for its romance.

Next stop... Notre Dame de Paris...

France Series - Eiffel Tower and Beyond

I've always believed that travel is good for the mind and soul. It exposes us to culture, language, food and surroundings beyond the familiar setting of our everyday. On one such trip to France with my husband, I photographed as much of the allure of this culture as my eye could capture. Among the beauty are numerous iconic monuments as well as some not-so-familiar, yet beautiful structures.

Our first stop in Paris...the Eiffel Tower. Not yet adjusted to Parisian time, we woke up very early on our first day to the city. We decided to brave the metro during rush-hour and head across town to see the tower that we'd only ever seen in photos and movies.

Le Tour Eiffel at Sunrise

One of the most famed towers in the world was, at the time it was constructed, very controversial. Built in 1889 as the entrance arch to the World's Fair, it was received with much criticism. Many saw it as an eye-sore against the traditional French style of architecture seen throughout the city.

Here you can see how the lace-like texture of the structure is created by the intricate ironwork and archways.

The views from above were spectacular. You can see most of the other famous monuments throughout the city from the top observation deck. The Arc de Triomphe is off in the distance...

On the mid-level deck, the tower casts a shadow on the embracing wings of the Palais de Chaillot. Beyond is La Défense, the business district of Paris.

We headed off on, what turned out to be a full-day journey on foot. We strolled through the streets taking in the distinctly French apartment buildings. This one displayed example of the interesting parking job common in Paris.

And one can't mention Paris without talking about Art Nouveau. This style of art and architecture peaked at the turn of the 20th century between 1890-1905. Classic examples are widely displayed among Parisian metro signs.

Contemporary Mediterranean-Style Design

Living here in sunny, warm El Dorado Hills, I'm surrounded by golden hills and oak meadows, nestled in the foothills between the Sierra-Nevada and the Sacramento Valley. The local vinyards lend inspiration to the Tuscan-inspired architecture. The nearby San Francisco bay area and Napa/Sonoma Valley also provide influence to the vernacular architecture of the region. I feel fortuate to live in a lovely home among such natural beauty.

El Dorado Hills, California

Photo by Ali Giaudrone

However, there is a huge difference between developed stock homes and thought-invoked architecture created for a specific site. As a design enthusiast, I continually search for architecture that lifts my spirits and motivates me.

I was flipping through the latest issue of Architectural Digest for October 2008 and found, among several awe-inspiring homes, the quintessential masterpiece. This resort like setting exemplifies my true personal style. With his clients Gary Friedman, president and CEO of Restoration Hardware and his wife, designer Kendal Agins Friedman, architect Howard Backen of Backen Gillam Architects created this amazing blend of old world influence and pure, sleek moderism. Their vision was to capture views in all directions. The core axis of the residence faces the Golden Gate Bridge with wings that wrap the adjacent views of downtown San Francisco, the bay, Sausalito and Mount Tamalpais.

This 1st floor plan shows the angled wings with the infinity pool that faces the bay.

The open arm embrace of the motor court is a perfect balance of symmetry.

Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

"They began with the idea of a great room that would spill out onto what is essentially an at-home resort--a stepped pool terrace with oversize furniture in niches, a fireplace, a hot tub and an infinity pool that seems to drop into the bay. This 'not really a room' room is Backen's specialty, resulting in mahogany pocket doors and companion screens that completely disappear and eliminate the barrier between indoors and out." --Patricia Leigh Brown, AD

Seating areas angled around the infinity pool with varied views of the bay beyond.

Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer Steel trelliswork supported by square columns covers the upper terraces.Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer The core of the home's dining room opens fully onto the terrace. The infinity pool appears to drop into the bay with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge beyond. Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

Opposite the dining area, the symmetrical living area displays antiques and artifacts. Juxtaposed against the clean lines of the architecture, the pieces give the room warm and a rich texture.Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

The kitchen is surrounded by windows to take full advantage of the sunrise and sunset views. Use of abunant island storage replaces conventional wall cabinets.Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

In the master suite, the doors disappear onto the terrace with an uninterrupted view of the bay leading to the Golden Gate Bridge.

Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

The master bath brings sunlight in through the skylight and French doors. The wall sconces illuminate the space while the neutral palette of the built-in cabinets, stone floor and counters topped with surface mounted basins evoke a simple, yet luxurious spa-like feeling.

Photo by Erhard Pfeiffer

This amazing residence epitomizes California living, where the indoors is blended contiguously with the outdoors. The contemporary lines combined with Tuscan-inspired details creates a masterfully crafted home carved into the hillside.

Now that's inspiring!