Fireplaces, Gatherings + Gifting
Fireplaces are lovely places to dream in front of on winter nights, as mentioned in the lyrics of “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” by Richard B. Smith (music by Felix Bernard) in 1934. Just proves that classics endure.
Later on, we'll conspire
As we dream by the fire
To face unafraid
The plans that we've made
Walkin' in a winter wonderland
Nothing beats gathering by the hearth. We love a great fireplace here at Dane Austin Design. So we thought we’d share some of our favorites - a few in rooms that we designed and one that we fell in love with by Gideon Mendelson. One of our fireplaces was recently featured in Washingtonian magazine.
One of our favorite fireplaces, recently published.
Fireplace with stone surround makes for cozy dining in a South End brownstone.
A bedroom fireplace signals luxury.
Technology makes adding a fireplace to any room possible.
Even when not in use, a fireplace can set the stage in a room.
Can you imagine sitting at this gorgeous desk in this fabulous room with a fire going? Designed by Gideon Mendelson, New York.
WHEN YOUR PRESENCE IS PRESENT ENOUGH
I’ve been pondering how to enjoy the holiday season more than in years past. More and more I ascribe to the philosophy: my presence is present enough. Your presence is present enough.
As I don't really enjoy the frenzy of holiday/Christmas shopping, I avoid it. Instead, I find little momentos throughout the year that make me think of someone, and then I present it to that person as a nice surprise. When we gather during Thanksgiving, our family tradition is for each of us to draw one name and focus on choosing the perfect gift for that person. It takes the pressure off of feeling the need to select something for everyone. Beyond that, I find meaningful gifts for the people closest to me.
For me, the holiday spirit has nothing to do with the "stuff" and everything to do with the experiences we share and the memories we make. I appreciate the extra time we spend with family and friends, listening to cheerful music, hanging out by the toasty fire, selecting the perfect tree at the local farm, decorating the house with natural greenery, enjoying hearty foods, participating in baking parties, competing at cookie swaps, making the rounds to our favorite annual holiday parties, and simply hunkering down to appreciate the coziness of our home and family.
From our family to yours: cheers!
