Mary McDonald: The Allure of Style

Like so many I have been counting the days until the release of Mary McDonald’s first book The Allure of Style. Now the wait is over! Mary’s exquisitely photographed book includes her own refurbishment of Buster Keaton’s legendary villa, as well as an extraordinary range of client projects.

Mary’s flair for combining old-fashioned elegance with bold patterns, chinoiserie and contemporary style is second to none. Vibrant color and whimsical designs, married with an impeccable sense of style is evident on every page. This book is a must for any design library.

A very special thank you to Mary for including me in the acknowledgments. Unnecessary, but very much appreciated. Mary you are the best.







Photo 1: Simon Upton
Photos 2, 3, 4: Miguel Flores-Vianna
Photo 5: Victoria Pearson

Red, White & Blue Christmas

I love a trio of red, white and blue. For me, it has such timeless appeal, and can easily take on a traditional and whimsical look, especially during the holidays. Mary McDonald always works magic with these colors.

A graphic red and white painting by Alexander Liberman marries with blue and white porcelain in a dining room designed by Alex Papachristidis. The Brunschwig & Fils tapestry 'tablecloth' unifies the rich colors of the room.

One of my all time favorite rooms is that of Tulsa jewelry designer Angie Bovaird. The red and blue Cloisonné vases overflowing with greenery and miniature potted cypress trees look so festive against the red and white walls.

An antique Chinese panel in red and gold sparkles in the dinning room. Hand carved wooden topiaries take on the shape of Christmas trees.

Mary McDonald

Just in case you haven't heard, Mary McDonald has a beautiful new website. See for yourself. Enjoy!

Dinner at Nathan Turner

Last evening was one of the most fun and memorable dinners in recent memory. Nathan Turner and Mary McDonald hosted me, my family, Suzanne Donegan, Michelle Nussbaumer and Michael Billings at Nathan's beautiful shop in West Hollywood. The food, company and surrounds were sheer perfection. Thank you both for all the laughs and the wonderful hospitality.

Mary McDonald, Suzanne Donegan and Nathan Turner

Michelle Nussbaumer, me and Mary McDonald

Delicious salmon and lentils with roasted vegetables prepared by Nathan

Beautiful flowers arranged by Mary

Isn't this chair and shade of blue gorgeous!?!

The lovely Suzanne Donegan

Mary McDonald, Michael Billings and Michelle Nussbaumer

My son and Daisey

Nathan, Ronda and my husband Chris

Suzanne Donegan, Michael Billings and Michelle Nussbaumer

Much to everyone's amusement or dismay, Mary and I ended the night with our own version of Karaoke singing Phil Colin's Separate Lives. When we couldn't remember the words we had to go online. Next time we'll just have to go to a Karaoke club so we can have both the words and music.

Los Angeles

I know that I have been MIA these days, I'll catch up very soon! We've arrived in LA and we are having dinner with Nathan Turner and Mary McDonald tonight. I will be certain to post photos tomorrow.

All the best,
Ronda