Wednesday, May 29, 2013

A Room with Some View


Look at this photo and tell me that you wouldn't kill for that view of the Arc de Triomphe.  I know that I would.  It's a good thing that the bureau plat and chair were placed with their backs to the window, because had it been otherwise, I doubt any work would have been accomplished.

I love to find photos of interiors that boast amazing views.  Whether it's a Paris monument, a bucolic vista, or even a simple but majestic tree, a good view almost manages to make a room's interior play second fiddle.  In these situations, attractive interiors are simply the icing on the cake...or perhaps it's the view that is the cherry on top.  Well, whatever.  A killer view and a lovely room from which to view it truly are beautiful sights to behold.



The view at designer Veere Grenney's home is of the River Thames and what I believe to be the Peace Pagoda at Battersea Park. (U.K. readers, is that correct?)




This Paris rooftop garden had a great view of the Eiffel Tower, which could be enjoyed while sitting in butterfly chairs.  The grass, by the way, was plastic.




Madame Ralli's Paris rooftop garden boasted this view of the Hôtel des Invalides. The Vicomte de Noailles advised Ralli on her urban oasis, which also featured plastic grass. I can only conclude that plastic grass must have been the dernier cri at the time.



Evidently, quite a few chic people lived with stunning views of the Hôtel des Invalides, including the late Walter Lees, who was so inspired by the scenery outside of his window that he had napkins embroidered with the landmark's motif.




Author Gordon Merrick posing in front of his view of the Hôtel des Invalides.




The riverside pavilion at Syon boasts a view of the Thames, too. This photo from the 1960s shows interiors that were the work of R A P Pinckney.




A majestic tree stands beyond the window at Villa Agnelli in Turin, Italy.



An arched doorway frames this view of a fountain at château de Fléchères.

9 comments:

  1. Drool-worthy views, and unlike Manhattan views, which get blocked by new buildings constantly, these are basically forever. In the case of the Invalides, it certainly helps that there are huge parade grounds and a sweeping lawn around the church, never to be built upon.

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  2. Michelle Viggiano11:14 AM

    I always enjoy your perspective and the range of your inclusion. So happy to see the pockets of hidden or forgotten splendor you present so well.

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  3. Yes, rooms with views. And those furnishings aren't too shabby, either. Gorgeous.
    Mary

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  4. Sometimes it's all about the view - it elevates the interior!

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  5. the views + photos are supreme. Grand post. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

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  6. Well I must say -- this is the closest I have ever come to swooning in my entire life. Glorious, simply glorious. Thank you for your unerring eye for beauty and for sharing it with all of us.

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  7. What MJH said. She beat me to it.

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  8. Victoria10:00 AM

    Sure is the Peace Pagoda.

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  9. I must say I also enjoy a Loo with a view!!
    Best,
    Liz

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