Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 3: Library & summer room

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaB2p5hGNerJXC8aSVI264tMWm7V1luJ9dPihfslIm08VZEFRdyd6o1Doq7dmBohY7Pmh0fyHDpYSSEIFbXKfzmyTg0RSuxlLt6c3kmFTu2UQ6SEwtCtK05OTUmgCsTgVNYB3WVWPHzXA/s1600/library+corner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaB2p5hGNerJXC8aSVI264tMWm7V1luJ9dPihfslIm08VZEFRdyd6o1Doq7dmBohY7Pmh0fyHDpYSSEIFbXKfzmyTg0RSuxlLt6c3kmFTu2UQ6SEwtCtK05OTUmgCsTgVNYB3WVWPHzXA/s400/library+corner.JPG" width="293" /></a></div>The last rooms of the Belgian ambassador's residence by the firm of Horace Trumbauer that I will share are the most informal and perhaps the favorites of everyone who visited.  The library features Regency-style paneling of mellowed natural oak inspired by a model from the Chateau de Bercy which was on view at the Met in New York.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7osjyqhKH3xCtOS9qmaZ8xsTWFRHlDhG-X_iYOpHjS793v9FGD1dRQAJMpZii8U03fe1O_XED5CFtq0npB5oWxhrePs98gdKn4NvsmgnYJw4_apeT0V7kJVaLBKiRPJc7gmiPmaKENd0/s1600/library+seating.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7osjyqhKH3xCtOS9qmaZ8xsTWFRHlDhG-X_iYOpHjS793v9FGD1dRQAJMpZii8U03fe1O_XED5CFtq0npB5oWxhrePs98gdKn4NvsmgnYJw4_apeT0V7kJVaLBKiRPJc7gmiPmaKENd0/s400/library+seating.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>During our visit as twilight fell, a roaring fire welcomed one into the cozy room. The shelves feature a number of interesting books on Belgium and also photography, a passion of the current ambassador. The wood frames surrounding the shelves open which led me to wonder if they once held metal screens, glass, or perhaps fabric panels.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWVv0ZBK4xP9DW1x8Hs1fTGZBny6oLknFptTxJpJhJm9Z5XxltTm2SKgrACrclEcgfHnwqmIA4QTf_H0ZnJnCuheXMhx2Wlp5RF6OXfEhCNu5jl20M-CHGlZqIQokMPGsvo2RicRN87U/s1600/paneled+library.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWVv0ZBK4xP9DW1x8Hs1fTGZBny6oLknFptTxJpJhJm9Z5XxltTm2SKgrACrclEcgfHnwqmIA4QTf_H0ZnJnCuheXMhx2Wlp5RF6OXfEhCNu5jl20M-CHGlZqIQokMPGsvo2RicRN87U/s400/paneled+library.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>All of this mellow wood is beautiful but leaves one wishing there was a bit of contrast, no? brown brown brown. The game table below featured a beautiful Jade chess set.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajYDg0l-FyVtIDpvLhJqo_nn1ElEZFDkl2seqXkwEIMJ8FUZ7Btmw_OKVF5b4sxXhb93Six9zNdkskaLL-wCH55sqSgssjLPfROhi2IH6YxWjHNPXov3FNA0Gg5yTTE_JE4GwlLF9KiQ/s1600/game+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajYDg0l-FyVtIDpvLhJqo_nn1ElEZFDkl2seqXkwEIMJ8FUZ7Btmw_OKVF5b4sxXhb93Six9zNdkskaLL-wCH55sqSgssjLPfROhi2IH6YxWjHNPXov3FNA0Gg5yTTE_JE4GwlLF9KiQ/s400/game+table.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> The fire did eventually burn down unfortunately but the marble mantel piece was no less beautiful.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjun2CHq2uTuy3TXX_4bpU7XMvGqwwueSN6OS96NKfC4ffRP4hP7bwAopLSiUUkkPeQ-Z7K_f6Qf5rYau7iY_EgeSmMsk4VY9MA7KUlFV2XGb55rZw1KJ55W3XSiajo0lZX4kA8z2sbc/s1600/library+fireplace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjun2CHq2uTuy3TXX_4bpU7XMvGqwwueSN6OS96NKfC4ffRP4hP7bwAopLSiUUkkPeQ-Z7K_f6Qf5rYau7iY_EgeSmMsk4VY9MA7KUlFV2XGb55rZw1KJ55W3XSiajo0lZX4kA8z2sbc/s400/library+fireplace.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Just off the library is the Summer room or loggia which features a stunning treillage treatment on the walls. This felt like one of the most used rooms we visited with comfortable sofas and a dining table. I loved the chandelier here which fit the garden theme.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfw7xe1i92zwGZXx_YcQWsvjaOi32gCfR2bzFinLlxALsk9UIXOwpgrPd3uTRrS7sMKFw1adJJ2Bm3TxWRQ2Cq2_dM4MjoZBEtcr0ug1rmaDsWerujo5Zmw-So-I3Cipsn5drTTZ-P49I/s1600/summer+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfw7xe1i92zwGZXx_YcQWsvjaOi32gCfR2bzFinLlxALsk9UIXOwpgrPd3uTRrS7sMKFw1adJJ2Bm3TxWRQ2Cq2_dM4MjoZBEtcr0ug1rmaDsWerujo5Zmw-So-I3Cipsn5drTTZ-P49I/s400/summer+room.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The medallions feature paintings of birds such as cockatoos, flamingos, spoonbills, and macaws; perfect for the current ambassador's love of avian life.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7UXke_EmjvtDopuApL2o0d5UldSnJWtYr5Atj9lqdn9WwA9wU2x3SOXAzj0q0ROFi25vV53Nrwff7Iu67VZAFqF-HZNMhP_Zq7f1pEVMvcUPtksO2bf2l4Z3i9HDWi5HzU8RHfnCNd2Q/s1600/dining+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7UXke_EmjvtDopuApL2o0d5UldSnJWtYr5Atj9lqdn9WwA9wU2x3SOXAzj0q0ROFi25vV53Nrwff7Iu67VZAFqF-HZNMhP_Zq7f1pEVMvcUPtksO2bf2l4Z3i9HDWi5HzU8RHfnCNd2Q/s400/dining+table.JPG" width="290" /></a></div> I can see this being my favorite space in the house, daytime or evening.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrDcEKt2XVWXz4ZKTi4aUmYQUYG5QVdqFy3ZVQ_E4NGep8SLHXY59xKZChmyQfuNMqZFcgyPULcveagN1OuHHVtYtzUqwxCW-aZHV4RPjR2ZzrXvFR0XvLQGqQjLKL5j2JUh8SrxTSCw/s1600/seating+area.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNrDcEKt2XVWXz4ZKTi4aUmYQUYG5QVdqFy3ZVQ_E4NGep8SLHXY59xKZChmyQfuNMqZFcgyPULcveagN1OuHHVtYtzUqwxCW-aZHV4RPjR2ZzrXvFR0XvLQGqQjLKL5j2JUh8SrxTSCw/s400/seating+area.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>A close up of the walls shows the incredible detail in the wood treillage, the faux painting, and the beautiful medallions.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XFTVKk_ReLkgQrbdpl-0WNVVc4BB4PddficZds3ZsBL9Fe2EWeU4Bj7om1fNEhQXlxzBe-z4aHVfWGEhU1d10tY6dhgv-S6tuRRJs6ldqqFQ6gYG7Bz-eGgwF42R_vaH_kB8Y4bdhdQ/s1600/treillage+detail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XFTVKk_ReLkgQrbdpl-0WNVVc4BB4PddficZds3ZsBL9Fe2EWeU4Bj7om1fNEhQXlxzBe-z4aHVfWGEhU1d10tY6dhgv-S6tuRRJs6ldqqFQ6gYG7Bz-eGgwF42R_vaH_kB8Y4bdhdQ/s400/treillage+detail.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>One last feature to share with you to round out the posts on the residence are the panels featured on every French door; I had never seen anything like this.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKb8_isS0rLwxJmYgqZJhl191WnyGZS0HIiwEJr-Dzuyveg3wsv_R5mYGfjyLjmFkbNzFwMydCa7aAZTA3bE_DKJ4xyYuDOhSOnGAp5URBjSpXvMz8c1OQfVXqXEpbk-Zz6xU9Ti3ZXbE/s1600/window+closed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKb8_isS0rLwxJmYgqZJhl191WnyGZS0HIiwEJr-Dzuyveg3wsv_R5mYGfjyLjmFkbNzFwMydCa7aAZTA3bE_DKJ4xyYuDOhSOnGAp5URBjSpXvMz8c1OQfVXqXEpbk-Zz6xU9Ti3ZXbE/s400/window+closed.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Much like a car window, perhaps harking back to the family fortune from Dodge, the 2nd pane up on the left hand side of all of the French doors would open while allowing the doors to remain closed and locked. During the recent renovation when the existing doors were converted to double pane windows in interest of energy savings, this feature was retained.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYr3YLpe8NrVajJamLdy8KZmGt4-q1WA1wO93ZpkQmdkiDT7xKO9f6U7GTKSTmk_Xw3kkeO1HrN36vjMvw_God_ULYbOFeXYNyJxmUm2RAQIDKNRzekpjnbnvXt8sGiZ-dqPBjpAG8zw/s1600/window+opened.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYr3YLpe8NrVajJamLdy8KZmGt4-q1WA1wO93ZpkQmdkiDT7xKO9f6U7GTKSTmk_Xw3kkeO1HrN36vjMvw_God_ULYbOFeXYNyJxmUm2RAQIDKNRzekpjnbnvXt8sGiZ-dqPBjpAG8zw/s400/window+opened.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>I hope you all enjoyed this 4 part tour of the Belgian ambassador's residence designed by the firm of Horace Trumbauer. Many thanks to the ambassador for sharing this lovely house with all of us and the <a href="http://www.classicist-washington.org/">ICAA</a> for hosting another wonderful event!

Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 3: Library & summer room

The last rooms of the Belgian ambassador's residence by the firm of Horace Trumbauer that I will share are the most informal and perhaps...

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Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 2: Salon & Dining Rooms

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixX2ve_dkGhZT_n0Eg2Opu4zARP-1IQsJpRfzwb396w8TyqKIBFjl8sogJtPY1tpXHS1s-9TySmOnw-5mdfTcFxOgx9tVA-9CP4nBOHqhnHUYyDKllsAYwbuiBY8pgquG77UVJNTqVm1I/s1600/mirrored+doors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixX2ve_dkGhZT_n0Eg2Opu4zARP-1IQsJpRfzwb396w8TyqKIBFjl8sogJtPY1tpXHS1s-9TySmOnw-5mdfTcFxOgx9tVA-9CP4nBOHqhnHUYyDKllsAYwbuiBY8pgquG77UVJNTqVm1I/s400/mirrored+doors.JPG" width="296" /></a></div>As promised in my last post today I'm going to share the Salon, Dining room, and Breakfast room of the Belgium ambassador's residence designed by the firm of architect Horace Trumbauer.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfdfYueXf72yO299f6S4Lv5ZZrQbjVatj6HFBx-onE-badrGhTj-y62nIBMLWb8zT9e0D9bfow237MZMT2qejIPgtH1_Y8AYu-eFWCwA5BF6aNXnPXVHBlgsW1qwuQJqjsM1AYmTPwDs/s1600/salon+with+portrait.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfdfYueXf72yO299f6S4Lv5ZZrQbjVatj6HFBx-onE-badrGhTj-y62nIBMLWb8zT9e0D9bfow237MZMT2qejIPgtH1_Y8AYu-eFWCwA5BF6aNXnPXVHBlgsW1qwuQJqjsM1AYmTPwDs/s400/salon+with+portrait.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The wood paneling, parquet flooring, and crystal chandeliers were all imported from France by the interior designers, Alavoine et Cie, to evoke the style of the French Regence (1715-1723). The portrait above is of the first Belgium ambassador to inhabit the house, Baron Silvercruys, who was responsible for its purchase.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVG3M9xrF4tmDW_SukJPq7eutT0SYhwvBHeQxw29ixvwbdLrMFOOsYKTYhwHYBtvqu8MjSeYSc8exF9MJUyXFbfzBE__-xqv1wO31RRQZTrsPAPLZ0ryqTvp4sAFhnHSbuMrs5nVlV78/s1600/salon+fireplace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVG3M9xrF4tmDW_SukJPq7eutT0SYhwvBHeQxw29ixvwbdLrMFOOsYKTYhwHYBtvqu8MjSeYSc8exF9MJUyXFbfzBE__-xqv1wO31RRQZTrsPAPLZ0ryqTvp4sAFhnHSbuMrs5nVlV78/s400/salon+fireplace.JPG" width="296" /></a></div>While a formal room we were assured the Ambassador and his family love to use this space and entertain here frequently, evidenced by the personal photographs on the piano.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiniWnC32_mHXM0wDvbiiQA5ms-J6gg_Aj8w0qyiipdMiXJbHF9IGvDoq8Vl4PBJZAkOsEXEocD2y1K5a4wo3it5EgvHOcRUEB-OjMdSLb7cqQtIy4H4LSlNc_ebExT6uKB2LOsJrpRg/s1600/salon+at+night.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiniWnC32_mHXM0wDvbiiQA5ms-J6gg_Aj8w0qyiipdMiXJbHF9IGvDoq8Vl4PBJZAkOsEXEocD2y1K5a4wo3it5EgvHOcRUEB-OjMdSLb7cqQtIy4H4LSlNc_ebExT6uKB2LOsJrpRg/s400/salon+at+night.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Despite the beautiful light the room receives in the evening I think I prefer it best a night when the chandeliers and lamps are lit, seen above. You can't beat that elegant ambiance.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-7LpCKQCjhN_v2qHJH-SQj1mQghRZ3frN_MEvmnQTMyHBkx1ur_FNdfD-hovsLnejI7Y2vJSoT_UAxDTP75qoGjR6JL2Zdxf_CgEUl1tpj8N0-sv8VMpluy7Q1Wb3NICmr7VAm0Nf24/s1600/overdoor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-7LpCKQCjhN_v2qHJH-SQj1mQghRZ3frN_MEvmnQTMyHBkx1ur_FNdfD-hovsLnejI7Y2vJSoT_UAxDTP75qoGjR6JL2Zdxf_CgEUl1tpj8N0-sv8VMpluy7Q1Wb3NICmr7VAm0Nf24/s400/overdoor.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The paneling is spectacular and in immaculate condition. It was only lightly retouched in the recent restoration.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJgwPF7c_2idt-oqzBrfxAAM-hLoV7f2bBRGujOnvNiHQPyuH9RQCv9Uz4EQzh0viCDJ5P0p_C5njHRlD99TVqF9qj-k5EYFOPQpXu8unzGmfU6qBfH5cH23zNu3qJZ0PwkScK6zKgJI/s1600/symmectrial+tablescape.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJgwPF7c_2idt-oqzBrfxAAM-hLoV7f2bBRGujOnvNiHQPyuH9RQCv9Uz4EQzh0viCDJ5P0p_C5njHRlD99TVqF9qj-k5EYFOPQpXu8unzGmfU6qBfH5cH23zNu3qJZ0PwkScK6zKgJI/s400/symmectrial+tablescape.JPG" width="286" /></a></div>The charming interiors look straight out of House Beautiful circa 1935. However- symmetry, as seen in the arrangement above, never goes out of style in my book!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFTs9OHXZ-sSrCXmkeUJ510JvdbPZO4Xw1pQboIlnh_NKYjFyomW3e5toUzFVwekrixQG-GNW8scWHouU29WvQyJvcT4dDOpPtgNaD6t5bAGcS75ZcLQc5TlS-wW4jPYrMZLWMHmFA7Y/s1600/salon+to+dining+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFTs9OHXZ-sSrCXmkeUJ510JvdbPZO4Xw1pQboIlnh_NKYjFyomW3e5toUzFVwekrixQG-GNW8scWHouU29WvQyJvcT4dDOpPtgNaD6t5bAGcS75ZcLQc5TlS-wW4jPYrMZLWMHmFA7Y/s400/salon+to+dining+room.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> The painted paneling allows the oak parquet floors to shine and warm the space.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QVc-rkeDbIvFbTLNY3yRYeX6ztzkRLTaXFd896y2VV_sNB4LYyr0gGCIGWxDpn-ns2qRroi4G6PC-luibpx10I15uY_2O3u4Cs5Wg-vUkpzGVFKFiIbOw5XVtM0HfvNl64VkJo5qx7s/s1600/view+from+living+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QVc-rkeDbIvFbTLNY3yRYeX6ztzkRLTaXFd896y2VV_sNB4LYyr0gGCIGWxDpn-ns2qRroi4G6PC-luibpx10I15uY_2O3u4Cs5Wg-vUkpzGVFKFiIbOw5XVtM0HfvNl64VkJo5qx7s/s400/view+from+living+room.JPG" width="290" /></a></div> From the salon one enters the Dining Room, which occupies a corner.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOya2TgWEgOSmNhcop6-YAjlgyvVzmNF5oowxdlpVK1RhdCgkHB_bJzOc1kMLIGLg3PQv3DgRzdGNbeNbSmrjgXmLkyFwoRnCPuGMdVYbbmcV2Uhgan7lj7HR7rST7FtEjUkupDDM1F8/s1600/dining+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOya2TgWEgOSmNhcop6-YAjlgyvVzmNF5oowxdlpVK1RhdCgkHB_bJzOc1kMLIGLg3PQv3DgRzdGNbeNbSmrjgXmLkyFwoRnCPuGMdVYbbmcV2Uhgan7lj7HR7rST7FtEjUkupDDM1F8/s400/dining+room.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Again I think the room is best seen at night!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiZTm6YvDrp-1kR3pY6qQe5rzAcSypb5lhInprJ7ExGrhKE-rWbLx8ikvXAqIvGD-LdkX1Npo5JeWSqlxmKOk70yYuyzZEDa5D1I1wCI_l19SCMQBbW7SKnT5ECch3hnRaMoktbAAUo0/s1600/dining+room+chairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiZTm6YvDrp-1kR3pY6qQe5rzAcSypb5lhInprJ7ExGrhKE-rWbLx8ikvXAqIvGD-LdkX1Npo5JeWSqlxmKOk70yYuyzZEDa5D1I1wCI_l19SCMQBbW7SKnT5ECch3hnRaMoktbAAUo0/s400/dining+room+chairs.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> The caned chairs were recently restored and date to the 1930s.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4193p0BXy0A6J6hEA8gNKYsHItIZqiz7xZnQCn5Q0qKJRbL8cS89a_eO_6AlvcQlqOxw0O65Nk5SFbDv4tFdjSPARlcTsRjjH6hdnHhSNXcwYBGxIegmJJDd36X9gBjfWSkq7UlrjSDE/s1600/kitchen+doors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4193p0BXy0A6J6hEA8gNKYsHItIZqiz7xZnQCn5Q0qKJRbL8cS89a_eO_6AlvcQlqOxw0O65Nk5SFbDv4tFdjSPARlcTsRjjH6hdnHhSNXcwYBGxIegmJJDd36X9gBjfWSkq7UlrjSDE/s400/kitchen+doors.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>One of the most intriguing details in the entire house are the mirrored screens in the dining room which shield the service areas, seen above flanking the chest.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlRUl-fSegTPN1S_BwJwsRcgbfEOPe0ZFU_kiQwhNWnadj06s3DNG6oSynxUsjNYqE4O_c4zJnWPdotjzXzTSpaVac3fjObabuRnBosOQ0HP8jAW8m73KpufGYUhYTu7dvhExIiU8Gws/s1600/kitchen+door+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlRUl-fSegTPN1S_BwJwsRcgbfEOPe0ZFU_kiQwhNWnadj06s3DNG6oSynxUsjNYqE4O_c4zJnWPdotjzXzTSpaVac3fjObabuRnBosOQ0HP8jAW8m73KpufGYUhYTu7dvhExIiU8Gws/s400/kitchen+door+detail.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>If you look closer the screens are actually mirrored french doors, mimicking the other doors in the room, with false hinges, and open as a screen on one side to shield the actual leather-padded butler pantry doors. When not in use, the screens fold flat into the wall and appear to be normal French doors like the others in the room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQd4H84T1yV6q_NJkvwiF71RCjt1d-QBO4V3pJLfI_PojKTlwwVkFvl8-tn4H_2teXJcP8h57UEygnv17h_28sy1gQcPjN06Dgd5UEo3k3WHjpvg3WzPGNK3pFw7XWeHQOjQSftT9iTc/s1600/pantry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQd4H84T1yV6q_NJkvwiF71RCjt1d-QBO4V3pJLfI_PojKTlwwVkFvl8-tn4H_2teXJcP8h57UEygnv17h_28sy1gQcPjN06Dgd5UEo3k3WHjpvg3WzPGNK3pFw7XWeHQOjQSftT9iTc/s400/pantry.JPG" width="297" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Above is a view of the butler's pantry with original cabinetry. Also original was the dumb waiter which carries food up from the kitchen below to this day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTT60P7LnQCDlGo3wx3d92JRAR9PIwrdVKgJdSCwKu8SMzeiGwh_RIBTFljxnphBDvChlDcbEOKWE7UNm1O36hmiqQsVqiHasCQ7WkvDOuZeiQ6SAf0z9KZf95ajrueetJWuisBHxknMA/s1600/chinese+lamp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTT60P7LnQCDlGo3wx3d92JRAR9PIwrdVKgJdSCwKu8SMzeiGwh_RIBTFljxnphBDvChlDcbEOKWE7UNm1O36hmiqQsVqiHasCQ7WkvDOuZeiQ6SAf0z9KZf95ajrueetJWuisBHxknMA/s400/chinese+lamp.JPG" width="281" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I loved this chinese lamp on a built-in marble console table flanking the fireplace- perfect for serving more casual meals. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9Ecwc2tMuc1lNRXxco_-Tx6lM2aWVYWk5l-Z5DHaN4qYFgMqb28rv1AbESKUyxnjZThRYjzc3ScRaRniQwJ1HDnWweEA-dmJAlYToAUgJ-AKXjTNTDtIUJp5R5UEDlNHBpR7ela8eq0/s1600/dining+room+crown.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9Ecwc2tMuc1lNRXxco_-Tx6lM2aWVYWk5l-Z5DHaN4qYFgMqb28rv1AbESKUyxnjZThRYjzc3ScRaRniQwJ1HDnWweEA-dmJAlYToAUgJ-AKXjTNTDtIUJp5R5UEDlNHBpR7ela8eq0/s400/dining+room+crown.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> The intricate crown molding features different flowers such as daffodils and old-fashioned roses.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNW8hDchQZU6r0mpMTMuwA4LM3r_IodeTR2T0foKklTEPtgta6YMxPIVOo_qQcwQ6bAYzL2qmClwEp4XQpLNXPrgMzCb2i5s_OOye7DU2Sj9omL3rphcEeMjPEAfmYqzd9Jx_R49r6uGw/s1600/dining+room+hunting+trophy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNW8hDchQZU6r0mpMTMuwA4LM3r_IodeTR2T0foKklTEPtgta6YMxPIVOo_qQcwQ6bAYzL2qmClwEp4XQpLNXPrgMzCb2i5s_OOye7DU2Sj9omL3rphcEeMjPEAfmYqzd9Jx_R49r6uGw/s640/dining+room+hunting+trophy.JPG" width="348" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The paneling trophies feature spoils of the hunt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwLRHeAL-dWTlUL5KA8DCVOy2Ns9zRi8uzEZLUvFvf7IkhTFI8ALDQa7OXCxRwy30ey9jk84e1qRZQ8m8GnhU9GAYaUgeTyNMkmnK3JDOrDKM-y6Ostn38HIQKt8s8TbtUKxFI3Mblvs/s1600/dining+room+door+hardware.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwLRHeAL-dWTlUL5KA8DCVOy2Ns9zRi8uzEZLUvFvf7IkhTFI8ALDQa7OXCxRwy30ey9jk84e1qRZQ8m8GnhU9GAYaUgeTyNMkmnK3JDOrDKM-y6Ostn38HIQKt8s8TbtUKxFI3Mblvs/s400/dining+room+door+hardware.JPG" width="278" /></a></div> I can't get enough of this bronze hardware!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5mmIj_gmR6YkVU9Ghyphenhyphen86PDmw0BRwOX7YupBZhWc_c3vf0cInUXhJ7vU7Tl4N5BApawS-J-HP3NKhLla6vwnoGJkCxMO3XxUMCyj2D9UnZYa97fKs4i3i0u7LfGtv9ceoKl2uOizYNi5I/s1600/meissen+bird.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5mmIj_gmR6YkVU9Ghyphenhyphen86PDmw0BRwOX7YupBZhWc_c3vf0cInUXhJ7vU7Tl4N5BApawS-J-HP3NKhLla6vwnoGJkCxMO3XxUMCyj2D9UnZYa97fKs4i3i0u7LfGtv9ceoKl2uOizYNi5I/s400/meissen+bird.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>The current ambassador is a fan of wildlife and his stunning collection of Meissen birds decorate the primary spaces.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNW-u3DccR3-bcOw2n4F23iEDpUhcutMo1xVCdKmR0LPSjwqeI4VIgKrj0mcY-ogaV1gXnmb6XhGQAZqx6Aec0ak39kinPAtDiDeFYpgKu5tfZrH1wKmRBvU8smGzklP38w6LF0ajMPo/s1600/Meissen+birds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNW-u3DccR3-bcOw2n4F23iEDpUhcutMo1xVCdKmR0LPSjwqeI4VIgKrj0mcY-ogaV1gXnmb6XhGQAZqx6Aec0ak39kinPAtDiDeFYpgKu5tfZrH1wKmRBvU8smGzklP38w6LF0ajMPo/s400/Meissen+birds.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The Ambassador leaves his post in December to return home and I'm sure the house will miss his Meissen collection!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinPCRbPc4UYxYz1oH5K79stnAJTqu8AFeD8B1GGj3k2bJ1yGJmTBublP71zo9UH6gZg-jpoDOe7ZVKgoGMhJi5y9K6EMZrN_uegb2KO3RI_-smOFG3NrLARfeVDkDViJ0ra7lqS1FQy10/s1600/view+towards+breakfast+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinPCRbPc4UYxYz1oH5K79stnAJTqu8AFeD8B1GGj3k2bJ1yGJmTBublP71zo9UH6gZg-jpoDOe7ZVKgoGMhJi5y9K6EMZrN_uegb2KO3RI_-smOFG3NrLARfeVDkDViJ0ra7lqS1FQy10/s400/view+towards+breakfast+room.JPG" width="295" /></a></div>On the other side of the dining room is the former music room, now an informal dining room used daily by the Ambassador and his family. I suppose one would refer to it as the breakfast room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRxDGKrVrWBl0LzOWgBgC3bgEVqXzTBZiepzXQVYwmsEb53ZpfXZIW48PrA7NTDRxSgIPs-PTs_Y6hFGi2hutRy6G2EMSL1DE8NGFPtLjRoIGXdui3HZrZrtGxqoE1Ekw448MXwCTZd8/s1600/view+into+breakfast+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRxDGKrVrWBl0LzOWgBgC3bgEVqXzTBZiepzXQVYwmsEb53ZpfXZIW48PrA7NTDRxSgIPs-PTs_Y6hFGi2hutRy6G2EMSL1DE8NGFPtLjRoIGXdui3HZrZrtGxqoE1Ekw448MXwCTZd8/s400/view+into+breakfast+room.JPG" width="280" /></a></div> The marbelized walls feature musical instruments while the shelves hold more of the Meissen collection.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLbta7foXsBSCT_6yl0nxdrwQtsP2tGDb5ZkI0tmYkizjqBqOk3w5ifivnchpvtosPU0LVD4ju5VBY80CR3zBor0ubjt-MEwEFy2CvTuNCjyQ689bcQkBIuZRGvfshoHrTwSl-QH43Rg/s1600/breakfast+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLbta7foXsBSCT_6yl0nxdrwQtsP2tGDb5ZkI0tmYkizjqBqOk3w5ifivnchpvtosPU0LVD4ju5VBY80CR3zBor0ubjt-MEwEFy2CvTuNCjyQ689bcQkBIuZRGvfshoHrTwSl-QH43Rg/s400/breakfast+room.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The table and candlesticks are recent purchases while the chairs are original and belong to the dining room set.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QVzsqJKmWYJl8CUoJq1igiyELmEvx8CCAXcUtoYaGRTZrsoaOzSlHPkYUAeviKYWHGHW-fSoiw9RkHhkKisPsjHX-yAfEYNrOR3Lw1NYQo0sPgkdMDhu9hGgg-XjMF1d6aTabFNnA2U/s1600/breakfast+room+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QVzsqJKmWYJl8CUoJq1igiyELmEvx8CCAXcUtoYaGRTZrsoaOzSlHPkYUAeviKYWHGHW-fSoiw9RkHhkKisPsjHX-yAfEYNrOR3Lw1NYQo0sPgkdMDhu9hGgg-XjMF1d6aTabFNnA2U/s400/breakfast+room+2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>The light fixtures in this space are simpler and more neo-classical in style. Notice again the use of mirrored french interior doors; in this case false to provide symmetry with the entry door from the dining room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZOpzcmOCDbGvz5ImMjPcMUg-A5ziaoTQwIr2WxqOFbOyhSg-DTs-lPY6T87IbFka_uxMP-wjDBfY9W9uLTiLyp_GIqsG7wqxgCaoI0fDS6I-W6UitmSbEJsQnGUK9oQucGc2yB_94qo/s1600/breakfast+room+hinge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZOpzcmOCDbGvz5ImMjPcMUg-A5ziaoTQwIr2WxqOFbOyhSg-DTs-lPY6T87IbFka_uxMP-wjDBfY9W9uLTiLyp_GIqsG7wqxgCaoI0fDS6I-W6UitmSbEJsQnGUK9oQucGc2yB_94qo/s400/breakfast+room+hinge.JPG" width="288" /></a></div>Even the hinges were beautiful! The faux marbeling on the walls is incredible and surely make this one of the most unique rooms of the house.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygLHUN7uS7a6JhvvCdCJz-nZVbEag_JnPkc0ZAMjY30DJvbw28w8yxaB5aLSC3y9sfucgiipsCcP0xuyY1GclkpbGBoBJO8A0X6H6EeCFK8RxW76_b01VSOHfMl5fxEw-M8yAR54M88s/s1600/breakfast+room+light+switches.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjygLHUN7uS7a6JhvvCdCJz-nZVbEag_JnPkc0ZAMjY30DJvbw28w8yxaB5aLSC3y9sfucgiipsCcP0xuyY1GclkpbGBoBJO8A0X6H6EeCFK8RxW76_b01VSOHfMl5fxEw-M8yAR54M88s/s400/breakfast+room+light+switches.JPG" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Join me for my next and final post where I'll feature the library and morning room aux treillage!

Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 2: Salon & Dining Rooms

As promised in my last post today I'm going to share the Salon, Dining room, and Breakfast room of the Belgium ambassador's residenc...

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Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 1

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHHSs-ZVUV9eDwz2wh9-FUXgrgel0dcKF51a38bf_9ASWhJE923fFqM1kC0B5d-IumYiet_r7gkvZpNyWtMRYxq5vi7uSx_aOV12VHa3BN8I2bwzHCAGcq2IlkKSS5qTwyzBnqFQgdE8/s1600/entry+hall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKHHSs-ZVUV9eDwz2wh9-FUXgrgel0dcKF51a38bf_9ASWhJE923fFqM1kC0B5d-IumYiet_r7gkvZpNyWtMRYxq5vi7uSx_aOV12VHa3BN8I2bwzHCAGcq2IlkKSS5qTwyzBnqFQgdE8/s400/entry+hall.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>As I mentioned in my <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-belgium-ambassadors-residence-by.html">previous post</a>, I recently toured the <a href="http://interior-design-pictures.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-belgium-ambassadors-residence-by.html">Belgium ambassador's residence</a> with the <a href="http://www.classicist-washington.org/">ICAA</a>. Designed by Horace Trumbauer's firm (or more specifically by his chief architect Julian Abele) for Anna Dodge Dillman, the house was meant as a wedding gift for her daughter Delphine to her second husband, Raymond T. Baker. Sadly they only lived in the house for four short years.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMkZdimMsRixkhgY2YjT6PPrnuabLv4575Q7ev4yJ-WXN2SjwIJ7JS6wkawg93hzpjbMffYgKU5_3Wdw4_V8cZX1bpI7ycMKyDaVKEwCbbWMwaCstopXo-a19s6cRrMI5_vWSUvn-6VY/s1600/entry+hall+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMkZdimMsRixkhgY2YjT6PPrnuabLv4575Q7ev4yJ-WXN2SjwIJ7JS6wkawg93hzpjbMffYgKU5_3Wdw4_V8cZX1bpI7ycMKyDaVKEwCbbWMwaCstopXo-a19s6cRrMI5_vWSUvn-6VY/s400/entry+hall+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>After Baker's death, Delphine rented the house to a roster of who's who before finally she herself passed away at only 43.  Her mother shortly thereafter sold it to the embassy of Belgium who have been in trust of the house since 1945.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazl8RPAjxojtb11I16HRIjtzsYOFIDzmENtpDi4NpNXN7MyUz8oa2xHe0FO9KStyb3l2a2HJm4g1X-lY48w9uXNnOSxfuNWUks8NTjJ_IMcj_w-CabaDz4DBYaujihoTVqRAs-fgTGxU/s1600/entry+hall+plaster+detail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazl8RPAjxojtb11I16HRIjtzsYOFIDzmENtpDi4NpNXN7MyUz8oa2xHe0FO9KStyb3l2a2HJm4g1X-lY48w9uXNnOSxfuNWUks8NTjJ_IMcj_w-CabaDz4DBYaujihoTVqRAs-fgTGxU/s400/entry+hall+plaster+detail.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>These gorgeous interiors you see were designed by the Paris interiors firm of Alavoine et Cie. The entry hall, seen above, may look like it has stone walls but they are in fact molded plaster. The floors however are marble.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMTDg9e3H8R4SWWkbgdxMKsdZYrNhhbhG67YbtYHE54kUVl1fcxa9Sa3Xggmz2XwYeWuw3IlcOuC3a5LVsZ_yL5XjkGWXblIRGfnVLJzzLeDoKL3Jk5q7HsYaQXek9cjqJMZRmoIxYWA/s1600/staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMTDg9e3H8R4SWWkbgdxMKsdZYrNhhbhG67YbtYHE54kUVl1fcxa9Sa3Xggmz2XwYeWuw3IlcOuC3a5LVsZ_yL5XjkGWXblIRGfnVLJzzLeDoKL3Jk5q7HsYaQXek9cjqJMZRmoIxYWA/s400/staircase.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>Immediately to the left of the foyer is the stairhall. This room sets the tone for the ground floor with panel moulding in pastel colors of the time and amazing detail work such as the iron railing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTGai0UrHl8aKr1d_Kh575qAF_PFgwvGBMyVgZgV6HhAm59nCVd6VbzlmFTIvIvFqTidSp58qP684F1iawypq9DkOCSApHHn0QVwvBlqLnC_O4_dbMaWMSXpGadiRRMhlFf_DF1HxkV0/s1600/staircase+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTGai0UrHl8aKr1d_Kh575qAF_PFgwvGBMyVgZgV6HhAm59nCVd6VbzlmFTIvIvFqTidSp58qP684F1iawypq9DkOCSApHHn0QVwvBlqLnC_O4_dbMaWMSXpGadiRRMhlFf_DF1HxkV0/s400/staircase+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> I love how the paneling is justified under the stair to different heights. The panels are an excellent organizational system as they hide any number of storage doors, vents, and other utilitarian devices.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q-5ez2LuqPoDsB-EKJi6QK-CFXZZUv2L7LLIEahhHQOIFOITSmuQHL_1PgfOZob1A46MQjYEszpKWDuU-x-EAFRLWgYsxxIcj6O3__VKLiLUI97LYJr8g1pJRl5857o6TJdPNRv49go/s1600/staircase+paneling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q-5ez2LuqPoDsB-EKJi6QK-CFXZZUv2L7LLIEahhHQOIFOITSmuQHL_1PgfOZob1A46MQjYEszpKWDuU-x-EAFRLWgYsxxIcj6O3__VKLiLUI97LYJr8g1pJRl5857o6TJdPNRv49go/s400/staircase+paneling.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> A lovely thing to see before going upstairs, no?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzh8x3bDATLxCm2oJe4Pk5XsNM1eh3_XU4aUmeaowfJe8Lyaju-itEQCtAtDYQpFm2HN7vrUfATHD1PP45-q6aYsdouQFw8x4OTV63IxVKce6DTlM25va_2B_hGEpY4zCHxgE9VN4_ow/s1600/stairhall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXzh8x3bDATLxCm2oJe4Pk5XsNM1eh3_XU4aUmeaowfJe8Lyaju-itEQCtAtDYQpFm2HN7vrUfATHD1PP45-q6aYsdouQFw8x4OTV63IxVKce6DTlM25va_2B_hGEpY4zCHxgE9VN4_ow/s400/stairhall.JPG" width="293" /></a></div>The parquet flooring, chandeliers, and carved paneling was imported from France by Alavoine et Cie. The first ambassador, Baron Silvercruys, hired the firm yet again to complete the space to their original design after many items and furnishings had been removed during the sale and multiple rentals.The Belgium ambassador frequently teases the French ambassador for having a more French house than him!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHqrg-wLE06YhxTUCjDA9LpK4Usz3iLe0uQP9g_X0ftkRTNchmVawOcsuNuBAb5xUCZoMDhBWLHdCQAKMJhVUchjz6-STaaXFP8RnamOff6gefQflUcAz2T5RiWPNkEMuzExz2HvvuGM/s1600/stairhall+overdoor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHqrg-wLE06YhxTUCjDA9LpK4Usz3iLe0uQP9g_X0ftkRTNchmVawOcsuNuBAb5xUCZoMDhBWLHdCQAKMJhVUchjz6-STaaXFP8RnamOff6gefQflUcAz2T5RiWPNkEMuzExz2HvvuGM/s400/stairhall+overdoor.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Again I have to point out the beautiful bronze hardware - architectural jewelry!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvO29iNrIg8Fcfffx29p5XRtN_xNBtRqfuEJI1EVAWybRx34RfHDWA4yczRaqyLphvrCaydbuNd0ZO3JFzEgf9RysKW3zytYclUJhyphenhyphenjB3e1j0lBQp-54vkKD-aCdhLtWJVXQHFKtPzaSA/s1600/stairhall+hardware.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvO29iNrIg8Fcfffx29p5XRtN_xNBtRqfuEJI1EVAWybRx34RfHDWA4yczRaqyLphvrCaydbuNd0ZO3JFzEgf9RysKW3zytYclUJhyphenhyphenjB3e1j0lBQp-54vkKD-aCdhLtWJVXQHFKtPzaSA/s400/stairhall+hardware.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>This tiny paneled vestibule separates the stairhall from the men's powder room. Yes there are two, one for men and one for women; a common design element in such formal houses at the time period.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI8n5dBAXGmtd71g5QsRd6VTR7lgVRcgK4vXdhByKRVVJjFyiV7Eg_Ji75OP_5t8S0RwB6e1pglkhsPCaagOmaqg54K7jwpSME-dygWTJRNrgNbVR_h6M5FbSs-mSVBiNomM9x7S3eKg/s1600/vestibule.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI8n5dBAXGmtd71g5QsRd6VTR7lgVRcgK4vXdhByKRVVJjFyiV7Eg_Ji75OP_5t8S0RwB6e1pglkhsPCaagOmaqg54K7jwpSME-dygWTJRNrgNbVR_h6M5FbSs-mSVBiNomM9x7S3eKg/s400/vestibule.JPG" width="295" /></a></div>This tiny vestibule may be my favorite space of the house, so precisely decorated like a small jewel box.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeAYvKa1p5Moa8BfY6sZsvTqhjp2TW7FVzoDApWSgYOLu_CjcEzgV9UraKbNf5zQkZz5dEeLtVM2WOAeGjYy0x9MgLW3v2mkpEx4OE-eEEVpzRGP3dAL10HgYloKD-BKAAOBswlLhf50/s1600/vestibule+ceiling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeAYvKa1p5Moa8BfY6sZsvTqhjp2TW7FVzoDApWSgYOLu_CjcEzgV9UraKbNf5zQkZz5dEeLtVM2WOAeGjYy0x9MgLW3v2mkpEx4OE-eEEVpzRGP3dAL10HgYloKD-BKAAOBswlLhf50/s400/vestibule+ceiling.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> On the opposite side of the entry foyer is the women's cloak room, seen below.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUtSyCLzLWexXu4zqrIdYjUmqNgcKNHWby2EywuPFhFUoDhPBSryhdoCekpdIffiaflA_wjDENsU8k1KTwjy7n7Jt3-KtJrzbWybGMQCduX9oJyGXhFBssOneVGXii5baFi_AK60LbFQ/s1600/ladies+cloak+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUtSyCLzLWexXu4zqrIdYjUmqNgcKNHWby2EywuPFhFUoDhPBSryhdoCekpdIffiaflA_wjDENsU8k1KTwjy7n7Jt3-KtJrzbWybGMQCduX9oJyGXhFBssOneVGXii5baFi_AK60LbFQ/s400/ladies+cloak+room.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>I immediately think of the iconic <a href="http://fashionista.com/uploads/2013/05/10charles-james-gowns-by-cecil-beaton1948.jpg">Cecil Beaton photograph</a> of models in Charles James gowns when I see this room as I imagine this was the setting for many similarly elegant scenes.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdqJx3gahG54zaZJdqxlbI2J9zGdD-YMhmk2WkTSJIv343POXpR_bcYgPqMHe6P0fgyvGwdH8Occ1ZvIzU2iAsyKUu2u0W7fb6NoULOvfNOTdumbYsX_-J1sVgykGNkDaMEokP88FNag/s1600/bathroom+door.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdqJx3gahG54zaZJdqxlbI2J9zGdD-YMhmk2WkTSJIv343POXpR_bcYgPqMHe6P0fgyvGwdH8Occ1ZvIzU2iAsyKUu2u0W7fb6NoULOvfNOTdumbYsX_-J1sVgykGNkDaMEokP88FNag/s400/bathroom+door.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>The slightly open door to the right leads to the powder room while the panel to the left is actually a jib door and hides a coat closet, full of coats and wellies (yes I looked!).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRGzSeMLvK9sVpVn-5vvcifIQCouJAYj-PmXe1yLnmWkKG0fSes7myzSk9RhMvtMhH1TKHfNIYPLfOuXWsvmEx0B-Mw3MaYOBTxklWV9jQekz8qnYQsurw4hbihqjD67OfxkPlp2TaGo/s1600/dressing+table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuRGzSeMLvK9sVpVn-5vvcifIQCouJAYj-PmXe1yLnmWkKG0fSes7myzSk9RhMvtMhH1TKHfNIYPLfOuXWsvmEx0B-Mw3MaYOBTxklWV9jQekz8qnYQsurw4hbihqjD67OfxkPlp2TaGo/s400/dressing+table.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>This built-in dressing table survives and is surely the most elegant piece of furniture in the entire house.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EPTSSDo5mG94fkyT14s-Lrq_RBDNeQ3STtC7ZX2rBrVyLJ3BSZ845N34kr0V27Ss3wfb4TpFkhkBolAM_-d4VHezhHHhzZlM4gT_5EprCzqc3nrqMPGEDTcNvoEMLCzgNyq8Wz8PJVQ/s1600/bathroom+sink.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EPTSSDo5mG94fkyT14s-Lrq_RBDNeQ3STtC7ZX2rBrVyLJ3BSZ845N34kr0V27Ss3wfb4TpFkhkBolAM_-d4VHezhHHhzZlM4gT_5EprCzqc3nrqMPGEDTcNvoEMLCzgNyq8Wz8PJVQ/s400/bathroom+sink.JPG" width="295" /></a></div>All of the bathrooms feature these custom designed marble sinks with glass legs - they epitomize 1931 bathrooms for me.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLdzlrevUiLLtixbmYaUD_FabuLkQ-Ipw37UrZU-xXgqq_Fmu8y8dzOHLmdKp79jORn6s07McqNQuM8kbQqS3DATM1cTBKoOE94XucInnAYeKmCuISZ3KrhVmCFS6s_legavRy_hd6MA/s1600/gustavian+furniture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLdzlrevUiLLtixbmYaUD_FabuLkQ-Ipw37UrZU-xXgqq_Fmu8y8dzOHLmdKp79jORn6s07McqNQuM8kbQqS3DATM1cTBKoOE94XucInnAYeKmCuISZ3KrhVmCFS6s_legavRy_hd6MA/s400/gustavian+furniture.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>I'll leave you with a last photograph of the ladies cloak room (notice the multi-colored umbrellas in the corner and my reflection in the mirror). Look for post 2  soon which will feature the Dining Room and Salon, said by many to be the most beautiful room in Washington!

Belgian ambassador's residence interiors 1

As I mentioned in my previous post , I recently toured the Belgium ambassador's residence with the ICAA . Designed by Horace Trumbauer...

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