Can you believe it’s that time of year again? As the calendar opens on December, we find ourselves immersed in the season’s enchanting embrace. The air is crisp (a rarity here in Houston), the lights are twinkling, and we’re busy wrapping up projects while eagerly anticipating the many festivities that lie ahead.
The past year brought many exciting adventures and joyous reunions with friends, clients, and colleagues. From installs and new hires to travel, events, and awards, 2023 has been a busy one and we remain ever grateful that you choose to follow along!
Making Our List and Checking It Twice
With the holidays upon us, now is the ideal moment to highlight some delightful finds that caught our attention this year. As always, you’ll see items from a few of our local Houston faves but we’re also including gift ideas from the various locales we explored in 2023, including Nashville, Charleston, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City.
Speaking of Mexico City, keep scrolling for a glimpse into our unforgettable journey to this vibrant destination!
1. Liberty Building Jute Tote Bag // 2. Green Petite Lucite Box from Blue Tree // 3. Mexican: A Journey Through Design by Newell Turner // 4. Handmade Tulipiere by Ashley Pridmore for Reed Smythe // 5. Treat Your Loved Ones to a Houston Botanic Garden Annual Membership // 6. Cypress Candle from Rewined in Charleston // 7. Deliver inspiration straight to your loved one’s doorstep with a subscription to FLOWER Magazine // 8. Handcrafted Ceramic Tiles and more from Mundos de Azulejos in Puerto Vallarta
Magical Mexico City
In October we had the pleasure of visiting Mexico City for the 2023 Design Leadership Summit and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the vibrant streets to the historic venues, we were captivated at every turn. The grand kickoff took place at General Prim, a 19th-century neoclassical courtyard home that once belonged to the governor of Jalisco. It was a festive cocktail reception and dinner that set the stage for all of the experiences to come!
The summit schedule was filled with presentations from luminary speakers representing the best of Mexican art, design, architecture, fashion, food, and culture hosted in the Museo Nacional de Antropologia. When we weren’t at the museum, on behind-the-scenes tours or soaking up inspiration, we were enjoying the company of our friends at events and exclusive dine-around dinners.
A look at the impressive Museo Nacional de Antropologia via DLN |
The Museo Nacional de Antropologia was designed in 1964 by Pedro Ramirez Vazquez and is best recognized by this sculpture. El Paragus (“The Umbrella”) is a concrete-and-aluminum piece by Jose Chavez Morado. |
Sandy and The Thinker sculpture at Museo Soumaya |
Sarah enjoying Museo Soumaya‘s fascinating facade |
Meals prepared by Mexico City’s premier chefs were savored against the backdrop of exquisite locales and meaningful cultural institutions. Isn’t this the most beautiful tablescape from our dinner at Museo Casa de la Bola.
Continue scrolling for a few more snapshots from our time in Mexico City. Have you visited in the past? We would love to hear what you enjoyed most about the experience!
Have You Seen Us Lately?
We love sharing design tips, tricks, and inspiration and we’ve had wonderful opportunities to do that over the past month. Tap the images below for a look at what we’ve been up to!
Jingle All The Way
Before we go, we’re sharing a few spots where we love celebrating this joyous season in Houston! If you’re searching for festive events to attend with loved ones, mark these on your calendar:
Christmas Village at Bayou Bend Gardens
December 8 – 30
Radiant Nature at Houston Botanic Garden
November 17 – February 25
Arboretum and Nature Center
December 15
Stroll Under the Lights at Memorial Park Conservancy
Please note that our office will close at noon on December 22 and we will reopen on Tuesday, January 2.
Until then, we hope the season fills your heart with love and your home with joy and laughter. We look forward to seeing you in 2024!
“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”
– Hamilton Wright Mabie