THINGS I USE AROUND THE CASA!

November 6, 2017 159 Comments

WELCOME TO MY KITCHEN.

I am about to step down into the KITCHEN from THE BAR area.

If YOU count THE BAR area I have 5 CHANDELIERS in my KITCHEN.

PLUS, TWO in my PANTRY!

THAT MAKES SEVEN!!!!!!

GUESS you can say I COLLECT THEM!!!!

CAT ON CAT……..YOU ALL KNOW THEODORABLE RIGHT!

This is just one of many positions!

How can he sleep with that leg in the AIR!

EGGS IN DINNER ROLL BASKET!

IT LOOKS PERFECT IN THE REFRIGERATOR!

PILLS IN SILVER NUT VESSEL.

So, much MORE fun than popping from the ugly plastic bottles!

DON’T YOU THINK?

Light SWITCH Plates nearly caused a DIVORCE in MY HOUSE!

I wanted the FAT ones…….HE wanted these that WE all GREW UP WITH………..

SO, he put FAT ONES in the BATHROOMS and HIS GARAGE and I got the thin ones through out the rest of the CASA!

I LOST but remedied the situation with FRAMES around the UGLY NECESSITIES!

SIGNAGE ALWAYS A VALUABLE DECOR ITEM FOR ME!

A PIG on VIEW!

TO EAT OR NOT THAT DEAD DAHLIA sitting on the fountains edge!

THE BIG DECISION was NO!

I KNOW I KNOW THAT UGLY PLASTIC POT!!!!!!

SHAME ON ME!

I will plant DAHLIA and toss POT!

SO, easy to find in THRIFT SHOPS old silver-plated casserole HOLDERS!

Why NOT put the DOG DISH inside it!

LOVE THE LITTLE BIRD FEET ON THIS ONE!

A LAMPSHADE used as a HEAD on an old CHUBBY WOMAN MANNEQUIN.

This was the FIRST ITEM I purchased for my SHOP almost 20 years ago!!!!!

FRENCH BISHOPS COAT ADORNS THE SAID MANNEQUIN!

MASTER BATH……….This MANNEQUIN resides there!

SILVER DINNER DOME USED TO HOLD DOOR OPENED.

When one has a TEA CUP pig one needs to have all Bathroom doors CLOSED!

Otherwise, this could happen……….

THE ITALIAN filmed this FOOTAGE as I was away for a few days!

NEEDLESS, to say I WAS HORRIFIED!

HOW LONG WAS HE IN THERE………I THINK ALONG TIME!

Like ALL DAY……..HE DID A POOP!

CONSIDERING THE MESS THERE WAS VERY LITTLE DAMAGE!!!!!

Watch for the FRENCH CRYSTAL STANDING CHANDELIER in the BATH TUB and what you canNOT see is a cement BUST from BELGIUM went down.

Not a chip or a scratch!

FRAME AROUND ALL LIGHT SWITCHES!

Just ADDS a bit of WHIMSEY!

( KATHLEEN here is THAT NECKLACE I spoke of…………)

PAPER TOWELS always NEED to be HANDY!

SO, I did this!

I keep inside a CHAMPAGNE BUCKET for easy GRAB and TEAR!

My OFFICE which was the old kitchen of this 1940’s house.

YOUR closet is probably BIGGER!

I found this lamp for $75.00 years ago and recently had THAT ITALIAN install an old frame on the ceiling!

A REASON TO LOOK UP AND SMILE AND CHECK FOR COBWEBS!

MY kitchen was an ADDITION by THE ITALIAN.

I am still waiting on the center island which I found old BALUSTRADES to be the support structure for a THREE TIERED TABLE.

My entire KITCHEN was designed around THAT ISLAND which I saw in a MAGAZINE……….over 25 years AGO!Do you think there is HOPE?I should pull that picture out and put it in his CHRISTMAS STOCKING!!!!!!!

The BALUSTRADES came from the OWNERS home of THE MARK HOPKINS HOTEL in SAN FRANCISCO!!!

A PIG IN THE DOORWAY………..always a good IDEA!

Perfect DOORSTOP!

I have had a few spellings of BANKSY on Instagram lately…….the first was BUNKSEY, which I LOVED.

The second was BANKSI which I adored as well!

The ITALIAN calls him MISTER B!!!!!!!!!

This is ONE of MY FAVORITE pieces I found at a FLEA MARKET!

The FARM FEEDER!

It was $3.00 and I know the kid who gave me the price was going to be in TROUBLE with MOM as she had stepped away from the BOOTH!

I gave him MY $3.00 and ran to the car NO MORE SHOPPING FOR ME as I did not want THE MOTHER TO FIND ME!

WE use CLOTH NAPKINS.

WE use them for about a week…….

Each of the FAMILY members has a napkin ring.

The napkins once done with get tossed into the feed trough where you see the RESERVED sign!

WOODEN SPOONS NEED TO BE HANDY!

They are the most used kitchen tool by ME!

A CHANDELIER AND A MIRROR OUTSIDE under the porch!

I get MORE ENJOYMENT out of these OUTSIDE THAN I would INSIDE!

French PASTRY TABLE was MY MOTHER’s she scored years ago………..I think she paid $100.00!!!

How about an OLD DRESS RACK in the KITCHEN for hanging pots and pans……

It works B E A U T I F U L L Y!

I can even hang the ironing on it!

YES, I LOVE TO IRON after THE ITALIAN bought me a new iron!

WHAT A DIFFERENCE IT MADE!

I still take his DRESS SHIRTS to the DRY CLEANERS!

The old outside TABLE stands in the middle of my kitchen and ACTS as MY ISLAND!

It holds an OLD TERRA-COTTA POT that holds a silver TRAY that holds other vessels for smaller foods and tools.

The RED CHAIR just STOPPED in the KITCHEN as I had no other spot to put it!

I LOVE IT.

THE ITALIAN NOT SO MUCH.

WHO DO YOU THINK WILL WIN THAT BATTLE!!!??

HANG IN THERE BABY!

How many of YOU remember THAT from the 1970’s?

THE HOLIDAYS ARE FAST APPROACHING!

LET’S ALL HANG TOGETHER!!!

I SO ENJOY YOUR COMMENTS!

THANK YOU for READING ME!

159 Comments

Leave your reply.

LA CONTESSA
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 3:02 PM

VIA EMAIL:
Loved this especially Mr. Piggy. He is Uuuugggge!!!! WHAT do you feed him(her?)

RRR
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:05 PM
  
  NOT MUCH!
  1/3 of a cup of PIGGY PELLETS just for TEA CUP PIGS and a piece of fruit…………Piggy pellets twice a day and fruit once a day.He then eats with us at THE TABLE. He sits between us and he and WINSTON have a designated SILVER FORK that they get bits and bobs from our plate………PASTA TO veggies to salad and fruit!
  They do not BEG but GIVE GREAT EYE CONTACT!!!!!!!!
  XX
Our French Oasis
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 2:41 PM

I absolutely love the repurposing of so many things here, especially the silver plate casserole holders as dog bowl holders, I must look for some and do this, such a brilliant idea. I need at least two now! Oh and the bell as a doorstop, the only problem with that in my house would be someone would knock it with their foot, one of our many children!!! and that would set the dogs off barking, oh the noise, on second thoughts, perhaps I won’t do this one! We too all have our own sterling silver napkin rings, each has the initials of the owner inscribed on it, my husband and I both have ours from childhood days and our children have all been given them as christening presents. We always use cloth napkins, that’s why we have automatic washing machines!! I agree more tours please, great post xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:11 PM
  
  GREAT COMMENT!
  YES,I too have mine from CHILDHOOD DAYS but do not use that one!MAYBE I SHOULD BRING THAT OUT!I have all my cups……3 in total I think and of course my SONS had their own.Actually they received RATTLES from a GRAND STORE here that were two RINGS together with names and dates etc…….I use those for the BOYS!
  OH, is THAT WHY we have WASHING MACHINES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!FANTASTIC!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:15 PM
  
  Tell me why there is a BUTTER SHORTAGE???People do not BELIEVE ME!
  XX
Leslie Harris
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 2:39 PM

That video is priceless! Your husband sounds so fun, loved hearing his narration, he was so calm and matter of fact! BTW I love Banksy pictures and stories, they totally crack me up. And your unique touches around your home are utterly charming. You’re such a creative soul!! Love all your chandeliers! Does your husband re- wire and hang them? What a talented guy!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:15 PM
  
  He was calm as HE had ALREADY SEEN THE MESS and let PIGGY OUT!!!!!!This video was for me to show me what MY PIG DID!!!!!!!!!
  YES, MY husband has done a few and YES he is the HANGER MAN!
  MY ITALIAN is just like YOU MADAME LESLIE!!!!!!YOU two would have a ball in his GARAGE with the FAT SWITCHES!!!!!!!Enjoying the TOOLS and the carpentry chat!
  XX
foodiefan
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 2:35 PM

Your casa is an inspiration for so many of your readers, Elizabeth! We all enjoy a visit to your place and each time there is so much to visually take in……such a feast for the eyes. I watched in horror at the mess darling Banksy made…..poor thing must have been so stressed…….but then how stressed the poor Italian must have been discovering the mess and I’m guessing then having to clean it all up!! Probably double stressed trying to work out where all the bits and pieces went before you got home!!
By the way there is definitely a shortage of butter and now eggs in Europe and it is affecting us over here with all the food that we bring in from Belgium and Holland.
Enjoy the autumnal weather – our Spring has been rather disappointing and quite cold! xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:14 PM
  
  HE left the BITS and pieces in the TUB and around………got the chair back and the TOWEL holder and the big POT that is our GARBAGE CAN……turned over and back under the sink!I was left with THE DETAIL!
  WHY THE SHORTAGE???NO COWS??CAN someone fill me in?
  XX
Lillian Plummer
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 2:10 PM

I love all the comments from your readers, and wish there was a “like” button. So enjoyed the tour of your marvellous home and adore all your collections. Like I said before your home is like a stage setting full of dramatic theatrical delights. Your creativity shines. You know I adore Banksy but would have had a few choice words seeing everything in disarray. Poor baby would have been so frightened with the noise of a chandelier dropping into the bath. You need to write a book about his little adventures. It would be a best seller.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:11 PM
  
  YOU and OTHERS Keep saying THAT!I wish I could DRAW!!!!!
  His noises are PRICELESS……there are about 18 grunts all have different meanings!
  A BOOK ON BANKSY……….anyone out there who could draw him running or rather HOPPING to the chicken coop.Sunbathing as a doorstop?Eating at the dinner table from a fork……….PLEASE SPEAK UP!I would be HAPPY to write it if someone can DRAW HIM……….
  Or maybe we just use MY photos?ANYONE in the PUBLISHING BUSINESS?
  I need someone to HOLD MY HAND!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU LILLIAN you are a delight!
  XX
Lindsay
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 1:21 PM

I love the frames around the switch boards—taking note!! You are so creative!
Poor Banksy! That was a funny video the Italian took! ??????
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:06 PM
  
  VERY FUNNY!!!!!!!!!!
  MY HEART was in MY MOUTH the first time I saw it!MY first question was DID HE GET HURT!!!!!!????
  NO, was the answer which made me VERY HAPPY!
  XX
Shireen
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 12:18 PM

Fabulous tour Elizabeth! I need to step up my game! I am also not fond of switch plates-they make me crazy! I need to go in search of little frames. Thank you for all the wonderful ideas!!! I love Theadore’s poses! Poor Bansky, so glad he survived his accidental lock-up! xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:04 PM
  
  HYSTERICAL………ACCIDENTAL LOCK- UP!!!!!!!
  YOU GO and SEARCH…….than send me a photo!
  I will have to APPROVE IT!
  XX
  - Shireen
    · Reply
    
    November 7, 2017 at 5:52 PM
    
    Absolutely!!!
Loree
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 12:12 PM

Your home is full of whimsy. I love all the lovely touches you have added to it. It’s very YOU. And I can’t believe how much havoc Banksy managed to create in your bathroom. He must have been enjoying himself in there. I can’t believe it’s almost Christmas but I love this time of year and I can’t wait to take out all the lights and decorations.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:50 PM
  
  OH LOREE……………….start decorating!!!!
  I’m NOT there yet!BUT I will GET THERE!
  XX
Karen Persson
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 11:49 AM

Always so much fun to check out your blog. Your photos are so beautiful and you’re such a great writer. Oh… but the mess that Banksy made while you were gone.. Wow…. huge!

Love,

Karenxox
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:48 PM
  
  HE MISSED ME!
  MAMA KNOWS BEST………….hard to leave others in charge!IT WASNOT HIS FAULT.Outside my bathroom doors are ACORNS GALORE………he searches daily and keeps me from spraining my ankle on them!GOOD PIG!He has a PURPOSE and was headed to WORK!!!!!!!
  XX
Lisa Kirakossian
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 11:35 AM

I’m jumping in here…First time commenter so here goes. What a marvelous post, as I always find yours to be. For some reason I chose this particular post to respond to so something must have really peaked my interest…I’m fairly certain it was the silver vessels as I too use them all around my house for holding anything and everything. However, I have never thought to use one for the dogs dish (I have dedicated some of my everyday dishes-Portmeirion-for that) but from here on out it’s a silver dish for my dog. Thank you for that. Perfect reason to hit up my favorite antique shop (does one really need a reason?) Switching gears, I too am at odds with the common white plastic switch-plates…there has to be a better option out there and I think you made the best out of a difficult situation with hanging frames around them. Bravo. Keep on sharing, you are a delight to follow and I always enjoy you musings. Best Regards and Hugs, Lisa K (soon to be “LiLi”…first grand baby due in February)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:46 PM
  
  CONGRATULAZIONE!!!
  
  I had URNS for the dogs at one time and well one broke and so I put the other outside.They were small and low to the ground!LOVED THOSE!!!!!
  Yes, they make switch plates other than the NORM but they are WORSE than the WHITE in my opinion!LOOK SO CHEAP!Good luck on your search!!!!!!IT WILL BE A FUN OUTING!!!!!!!!
  XX
Antonia
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 10:52 AM

I just love EVERYTHING! Love frames everywhere, be it on the ceiling or around the switches. Loooove mirrors, especially grouped together. Adooooore chandeliers-not in the bath tub but s’est la vie when we coexist with our beloved pets. Ours destroyed the entire kitchen as a puppy but we didn’t love him any less…Miss him so much…Looove the throne in the middle of the kitchen. Very symbolic for me, given that the kitchen is the heart of the house. The balustrade thing that you have in mind is just marvelous! The ice bucket idea is soon to be copied by me! Mr. B is adorable! Insomma mi piace tutto! Complimenti to OUR CONTESSA!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:36 PM
  
  GRAZIE!!!!
  Those CHAMPAGNE buckets are GOOD for WHITE FLOWERS TOO!!!!!!ANY FLOWERS but white is a WINNER!!!!!!!!I use them for the PAPER TOWELS the wooden spoons to make another level with a silver tray on TOP that house’s a plant!They line the TOP shelf in my PANTRY which is STUNNING when the TWO chandeliers are a BLAZE!
  I am THRILLED you want to COPY ME!!!!!!
  Again easy to find thrifting……..as NO ONE wants the GOOD STUFF ANYMORE!
  XX
Nancy Brantley
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 10:30 AM

First time commenting but love receiving email in my box…..just had to comment! I thought I was the only one that loves an eclectic look with whimsy! I also can’t sell things because I buy what I love and just place anywhere….I have been told I have a problem with a cluttered house but that is what makes me happy!!!! I get asked a lot how do you dust…my answer….I don’t!!!! LOL you should see the look on their face??!! I do have my house cleaned but think its funny that would be the question instead of stating WOW what nice things!!!!!
ps……are we related??????!!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:31 PM
  
  I give the same ANSWER!!!!!!!!!!!
  SO, I know THAT LOOK!!!!!!!!!
  I can TELL immediately if they GET IT or think they are in a MESS!!!!!!!!
  The BEST compliment I had on the HOUSE was from someone I do not recall but I think it was a MAN.He said,”YOU would NEVER EXPECT this from the OUTSIDE!!!!!!!!!”AT first I was a bit a taken back……………… but the MORE I thought about it the MORE I SMILED!
  ANOTHER comment I heard was I asked a neighbor for her cleaning Lady’s name and number.THE NEIGHBOR wouldNOT give it to me!!!!!!!She had a million and ONE excuses!What is FUNNY was that was probably 20 years ago and it was not NEAR as FULL as it is NOW!!!
  MY GUESS IS WE ARE RELATED……………THANK YOU for jumping in HERE!DO IT MORE OFTEN!Where do you live?
  XX
Katie Clooney
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 10:23 AM

OMG…Elizabeth… I think that this is my favorite post of yours EVER! I wanna come out to Cal. and hit every estate sale and flea market with you within 100 miles! No offense, but I prefer not to share a bathroom with Banksie. I am not the neatest person in the world and I am afraid I would be a bad influence on him… I LOVE the Italian’s video – BRAVISSIMO!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:23 PM
  
  IT’s a DATE!
  YOU can have your own bathroom with TWO SINKS, TWO SHOWER HEADS and a POTTY THAT WILL FLUSH ANYTHING!!!!!YOU may have a CAT that wants to share a bed………just WARNING YOU!
  XX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 10:18 AM

So sweet of you to open your house up to the blog! Every angle is just like you- dramatic, generous, beautiful, whimsical, and stylish! <3
As it happens, I am just now in the market for kitchen remodeling ideas. The "French" connection does appeal to me. Lots of analysis paralysis in this house.
So glad precious Banksy was not traumatized by the confinement. Giampy's voice is so sweet and soothing-I'm sure he was not pleased with the sight!
We're going to St. Louis to see #1 daughter in early December. #2 is flying in from Houston for a combined Thanksgiving/Christmas family week-end. You may already know that #1 got a job at the ZOO! Miss them both, so can't wait!
<3 to all!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:21 PM
  
  NO!!!
  I did not know she changed JOBS!!!!!!!
  I must check in with HER………..for a moment there I thought we had ring news a coming!!!!!!!
  My heart skipped a beat!
  ENJOY……..what FUN FOR ALL.
  XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:22 PM
  
  MANY THANKS FOR ALL THE COMPLIMENTS AS WELL………….you made me GRIN!
  XX
- Ms. Mary
  · Reply
  
  November 10, 2017 at 7:00 PM
  
  Her IG has a few animals featured. She can go wander the zoo at lunch- what a fun job.
Lisa White
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 10:08 AM

Charming with a touch of whimsy in a corner or on a sign! The red chair, 7 kitchen chandeliers, Banksey doorstop…as well as a silver domed serving piece, French marble pastry tables on the patio with ANOTHER chandelier, framed light switches… WHAT A STORY BOOK home. I love it and think it a perfect place to have a cup of tea served on antique china while overlooking the abundant garden outside. Perhaps, by the time I weave my way to your paradise, the balustrade 3 tier kitchen island will be in place… I do love this unique old clothing trolley as a pot rack….hmmm. You look so elegant as you welcome us into your home…and that is how I picture you in my mind..always! Thank you for another incredible post! I can barely wait to see Christmas this year !
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 3:19 PM
  
  THIS YEAR I HAVE A PIG!!!!!!!!
  Think we may have to go SMALL in the TREE DEPARTMENT and UP on a TABLE!!!!!
  I do have PLANS to make HIM MY CHRISTMAS CARD HOWEVER!!!!!!!!!
  WE will see if I can pull that one off!
  I WILL ALWAYS WELCOME YOU!!!!!!!
  XO
Sheila from the luncheon
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 9:45 AM

Great ideas especially the frame surround on light switch. I was fortunate to visit your home–it’s as charming, unique and fabulous as you are.
Regards,
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 9:51 AM
  
  BIG BACI A TE!!!!!!!!
  XX
Never mind Donna
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:56 AM

Is the necklace you mention from MONIES? It looks just like one I have that I got at Sak’s in the ’80s. I LOVE mine.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 9:49 AM
  
  YES!!!!!!!!
  WE saw one at an ANTIQUE FAIRE the other day just like MINE for $600.00!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  I did not pay THREE DIGITS for it and it was a recent BUY!!!
  XX
Bungalow Hostess
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:54 AM

Oh my your kitchen is so incredible and the crystal lighting and vintage accents make it. Love how creativitly you have accessorize it and if Ari Seth Cohen was into home decor yours would have to be featured in it!
Poor Banksy getting stuck in your bathroom…he probably wandered in and inadvertently closed the door. However he did manage to wreak havoc but he must have been desperate to find a way out.
Wooden spoons are my well used kitchen tools too…and I have quite a few and frequently buy more…small enough that I can collect them in our small bungalow kitchen!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 9:51 AM
  
  GOOD TO KNOW As I know a MAN who is making some AWESOME ONES!!!!!!!!!XX
Parnassus
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:49 AM

Hello Contessa, The integration of your lifestyle and your possessions is nothing less than amazing. I am going to have to go back over all the photos, looking for details that I missed the first time. I have the ability to accumulate stuff, but not to display it with so much panache!
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 9:47 AM
  
  THANK YOU JIM………………I was GIVEN this GIFT at BIRTH.Nothing I learned!It just comes from within!
  XX
classic • casual • home
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:35 AM

I love how you repurpose things, Elizabeth!!! Such an elegant way to live every day! I have been buying my daughter real Limoges dessert plates and flea markets (since they are more at anthro for regular old-fashioned looking China. Love your pastry table, too.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 9:46 AM
  
  I bet I can ADD to THAT STASH!!!!!!!!!!!
  I just gave away a lot of DISHES from my SHOP!!!!!!YESTERDAY!
  THANK YOU…….I was recycling BEFORE it was POPULAR!
  XX
Cathy
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:19 AM

Great post. Your home is so inspiring. So creative and artistic. P.S. OMG the pet pig was locked in the bathroom. I hope he didn’t do damage to himself considering he wiped out the loo, let alone how it shocked the husband. But he handled it well!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 8:38 AM
  
  NO, BANKSY was just FINE!!!!!!!!!!!
  If he had hurt himself I doubt I would EVER TRAVEL AGAIN!!!!!!!!!
  YES, the piggy turns around and doors SLAM SHUT!!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Laura Cumming
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 8:09 AM

Your home is a treasure! Thoughtfully collected with love & appreciation.
The kitty & Bansky make it complete!
Thanks for sharing this interesting tour.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 8:40 AM
  
  Not to be forgotten SIR WINSTON………………the CARDIGAN CORGI!
  I am lucky they ALL get along and sleep close together……….
  Thanks for your comment.
  XX
Sandy Jones
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:58 AM

Have been using nut dishes for my pills for years. It does make it so much easier to take them and the nut bowl keeps them from rolling around! Love the house and the pig!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:40 AM
  
  BRAVA!
  Yes, my NUT DISH is HERE by the computer only 3 MORE to GO!!!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU…………it has been a PROJECT in THE MAKING for 24 years now!
  XX
Val
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:41 AM

A house well loved and FULL of LOVE is what I see:). As for Bansky and the bathroom incident-
OH MY!!!!!!! Your Mister is CLEARLY a SAINT;)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:39 AM
  
  BINGO!
  ON ALL ACCOUNTS!!!!!!!!!!!
  THANK YOU!
  XX
Loreen
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:32 AM

Thank you for this fabulous home tour! Your home is like a theater,a stage, a production! I love it! I particularly like the video with the Italian! I think I would have to call him ,”Mr. Wonderful”
Xo Xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:38 AM
  
  THAT LOREEN is THE PERFECT NAME FOR THE ITALIAN!!!!!!!!
  YOU nailed him with just a VOICE!!!!!!
  XO
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:23 AM

Now that is amazing! I still think it’s funny that Banksy is a “teacup” pig. That is one big cup ‘o tea! I’m surprised that he only did that in the bathroom, not anywere else in the house. I wonder why? Any ideas?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:31 AM
  
  Because he was locked in the BATHROOM from about 6am to 7 pm!!!!!!!!!!
  HE WAS SCARED.
  He was bumping into things which than made a few things FALL…………
  
  WE had your ROAST last night with the apples and garlic!!DELICIOUS!THANK YOU!
  
  XX
Libby
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:15 AM

Oh my goodness!!!! Banksy in the bathroom: that is a truly and totally unique film and please thank THE ITALIAN for making it!!! So many goodies here, I need to go back and look it all over very slowly!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:28 AM
  
  I was AMAZED he thought of it!
  I was PLEASED with how CALM HE WAS………..he had a bit to clean up after a LONG DAY AT WORK!He LOVES the PIG as MUCH AS I DO…………..they DO have a BOND especially over CRAB APPLES!The ITALIAN picks about 7 before coming into the house every night from work and BANKSY hears him arriving and waits PATIENTLY at the garage door!He even SITS to RECEIVE the apples!I have that on TAPE must SHARE soon on IG!!!
  XX
Mithra Ballesteros
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 6:04 AM

What a master of reinvention you are! You see beyond the naked eye. You possess a sensory awareness that eludes most people. And you make me think of Rebecca Solnit. I’ve been reading her essays. Here is what she says:

“Maybe a house is a machine to slow down time, a barrier against history, a hope that nothing will happen, though something always does. But the materials themselves are sometimes hedges against time, the objects that change and decay so much more slowly than we do, the empire bed in which were conceived children who died a century ago, the old silverware from weddings several wars before that you can buy at the better garage sales, the ones held by people who seldom moved so that objects could drift down on them like muffling snow over the decades until death or dissolution obliged them to dig out.”
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:24 AM
  
  WHAT IS THE NAME OF HER BOOK?!!!
  I SHALL GOOGLE……….
  
  THE OLD STUFF has such a PERSONALITY and HISTORY.Plus, it is just darn BEAUTIFUL!
  XX
- Lisa White
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 4:45 PM
  
  I want the name of this book, too!!!!!
- Lisa White
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 5:04 PM
  
  I researched her essays. This sounds like this passage was taken from one of her earlier books. The one about California… I would love to know which one of her books contained this passage.
- Lisa White
  · Reply
  
  November 8, 2017 at 2:56 PM
  
  The Encyclopedia of Trouble and Spaciousness is the title of the book that came up when I typed in this quote
kim
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 5:55 AM

Elizabeth I am crazy for your home and kitchen! The title, ‘More is more,’ applies to your home. It’s gorgeous and I love every little bit. You know I hope I can photograph it for the blog. There is still much to see. Do you still love the open frig? I am thinking of getting one. I can use my old silver in there! ( My grandmother has given me a ton.) What a great ideas- the dog bowls and the light switches.
I am planning my kitchen redo now and am trying to incorporate some antique elements mixed with modern. What I love is your hanging dress rack, that wonderful rack for platters, the use of old silver and real furniture into the mix. It’s all uniquely fabulous! The pig video was cute. I love your husband’s narration- so funny.

You live like a modern day contessa and I love it! xoxo Kim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:21 AM
  
  OF COURSE YOU CAN COME PHOTOGRAPH MY KITCHEN!
  I WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU!
  CAN WE PUT A DATE ON THE CALENDAR?
  I will make LUNCH!
  BANKSY will join us for THAT!
  He eats from a fork………do you know that?!!!
  YEP, he does……..XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:21 AM
  
  YES, ADORE MY REFRIGERATOR with glass doors.
Linda clark
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 5:54 AM

Love the tour . It was delightful . The picture frames around the light switches -brilliant. Many of us will copy your idea.
So enjoy reading your post, seeing creative and clever ways of using, for me my silver trays, bowls etc., that I have had for years…
Bankys is a good boy !!!
Thank you for sharing so enjoy this!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:18 AM
  
  BANKSY, is a VERY GOOD BOY!I want you to know I had a jug of DISTILLED WATER under the STONE SINK……..he was able to open and drink!!!!
  The video was done for ME as I was away!!!!!!!
  ALL I could say was ,”DIDN”T you CLOSE the BATHROOM DOOR!!!?”
  The ITALIANS response was ,”I THOUGHT I DID!”
  THIS will NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN!
  As I will have second thought about LEAVING!
  XX
Meason
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 5:18 AM

Elizabeth you are the very best part of all your tours
Xoxo
Big cheers
Meason
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:14 AM
  
  WE MUST MEET!
  XX
Meason
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 5:15 AM

You are the very best part of all your tours ???????
Meason
- Meason
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 5:17 AM
  
  Ps those question marks were heart and happy emojis, but they converted to question marks!!! Can you delete? Ill re write without emojis…
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:13 AM
  
  YES, I can DELETE and Correct.
  When one answers with a phone the EMOJI’s and EXCLAMATION marks DO NOT WORK!
  I have NO IDEA WHY.
  Just know that I KNOW WHAT YOU MEANT!!!!!!!
  XX
SB Chica
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 4:45 AM

I’m new to your blog, via Tamera Beardsley referral. I just LOVE your creativeness and whimsy. Just in this first time reading you I got some great ideas for our home…..using wonderful vessels for everyday items, the frame for light switches, the dress hanger for pots and pans…..and I love how you call your husband “The Italian” – LOL !!! I’m happy to have signed up for your news; I will start today reading your archives to find out more of La Contessa !
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:36 AM
  
  CIAO BELLA!
  Does the SB stand for SANTA BARBARA by chance?I will click on it and SEE where it takes me!
  THANK YOU for popping over from TAMERA’s BLOG!
  I try to HAVE A GOOD TIME and make you SMILE from time to time if not LAUGH OUT LOUD!
  Otherwise,what is the POINT?!
  Thrilled YOU STARTED FOLLOWING ME……………it’s ALL ABOUT ME so BEWARE!
  Well, and the animals TOO!
  THE ITALIAN grew up in ITALY and married me in ITALY and we lived in ITALY so YES he is MY ITALIAN!!!
  XX
VALER
· Reply

November 7, 2017 at 4:23 AM

You are over the top…….enjoy your world and decorating!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:37 AM
  
  YA THINK?!!!
  I have HEARD THAT BEFORE……..but donot see it!TRUTH!
  THANKS for commenting love to hear from MY READERS!
  XX
ellie's friend from Canada
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 11:56 PM

I greatly enjoyed this blog. I am glad Banksey is not inherently destructive. The poor soul ––it must have been really frightening for him to have been locked in accidentally (even if he was the author of his own misfortune). THE Italian sounds so nice –– I love his tour of chaos..and I loved your tour of the house.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:41 AM
  
  THE ITALIAN IS VERY NICE……………….he is a SPECIAL MAN!
  I’m LUCKY cause my MOTHER pointed THAT OUT TO ME!
  I need to TELL THAT STORY!!!!!!
  NO, The PIGGY is not DESTRUCTIVE AT ALL……….he understands the WORD NO perfectly!AS A Child you train them what is acceptable and what isNOT!
  Same with HIM………..
  He lives a GOOD LIFE and for certain was SCARED TO DEATH…………..XX
Taste of France
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 11:43 PM

I love maximalist but I do not love cleaning, so I have to indulge vicariously through you. You are a good teacher: I am too literal and practical and would look at something like a bishop’s cloak and think, “wow, those bishops knew how to live the good life,” and not, “I’d like to wear that. How much do I have to hem it up?” I look at silver dishes and think, good idea–they don’t break if dropped and they don’t tarnish if used regularly–but I have enough dishes. You look at silver dishes and see other uses for them.
There are so many old treasures around here, cast off by people who prefer plastic and polyester. You are a shining–glittering–example of how to keep using them.
Give us more tours!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:47 AM
  
  I do not WEAR the BISHOPS COAT…….it’s a piece of ART for me!
  Yes, I am a HUNTER/GATHER of the OLD but GRAND STUFF!
  A lot of my SHOP buys just STOPPED HERE and NEVER made it to the STORE.If I LIKE something it STAYS……….SO having a SHOP for me was difficult as I ONLY BOUGHT what spoke to ME!
  CLEANING………well that isNOT my FAVORITE thing to do either but I AM LUCKY I have a couple of women who ADORE MY HOUSE and actually have WONDERFUL CREATIVE SENSE!They also LOVE the ANIMALS……….SO I LUCKED OUT ONCE AGAIN!
  Now I saw you have a NEW BLOG POST I must GO see what is happening in FRANCE!OH, can you tell me WHY France has a BUTTER SHORTAGE?I read that somewhere and mentioned the other night at dinner and they ALL thought I was NUTS!
  XX
Kathy L
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 10:27 PM

Your house has so much charm and character! And you have a flair for decorating with an antique twist; I loved all your repurposing of silver objects. Thank you for the house tour!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:53 AM
  
  YOU ARE WELCOME!
  I grew up with TWO AUNTS who had BEAUTIFUL HOMES…………..
  Let’s just say MY EYE started EARLY in LIFE and I ran with it when I got to MOVE to ITALY!
  My MOTHER and I spent weekends on the HUNT at ANTIQUE STORES. My FIRST COLLECTIONS were OLD KEYS and BOTTLES……….I have since GRADUATED to CHAMPAGNE BUCKETS and CHANDELIERS!!!!!!!!!XX
Apart From My Art
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 10:26 PM

Your house is so you. So many creative touches. Love it. I adored Giampys narration of his film. Just adorable. He’s a star also. What a mess. Loved it.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:54 AM
  
  HE IS A STAR!
  ALL MY BOYS ARE STARS……………..XX
debra@5th and state
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 10:14 PM

Contessa, you are wildly talented!! framed switch plates, dome door stop, dress rack pot holder, oh and a frame on the ceiling!!!!

LOVED THIS TOUR AND THE FILM WAS PRICELESS!!! the Italian was so funny

xoxoxo
debra
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:56 AM
  
  SO, HAPPY YOU ENJOYED!
  Now, I want TO KNOW did the announcement of THE BLOG arrive in your EMAIL this MORNING????
  Did we have SUCCESS?
  XO
Valerie Lee
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 8:47 PM

Another brilliant post ! Adore you ! Adore your home ! Can’t believe what a mess Banksey Made?? of your bathroom !
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:57 AM
  
  BIG MESS……now you see why I can NOT come VISIT you for A WEEK!!!!!!!!!
  My Four-legged CREATURES NEED ME as I know there EVERY NEED!
  The ITALIAN isNOT HOME enough to have a HANDLE on THAT!
  XX
Jennifer Connolly
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 7:34 PM

Your kitchen is amazing!! All those chandeliers are so fab!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:58 AM
  
  YOU KNOW AS YOU HAVE BEEN HERE!
  Hope your FURRY GUY is A OKAY!
  XX
Jan Sher Tuckerman
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 6:02 PM

Elizabeth. When you were born they broke the mold. I love you more. Xo. J
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 6:59 AM
  
  IT was VERY HOT when I was BORN!
  DO you THINK that had something to do with IT!
  I want to hear ALL ABOUT JAPAN!!!!!!!
  XX
Sunday Hendrickson
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 5:56 PM

You crack me up!
xxooo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:00 AM
  
  GOOD!
  THAT is MY INTENTION!
  XX
Deborah Peterson Milne
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 5:36 PM

What a terrific tour of your eclectic, beautiful home. I love your whimsey, your keen eye and your love of home. What a wonderful life you two have created!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:06 AM
  
  THANK YOU………we have made a HOME.It really is MORE of an ENGLISH country HOME than anything else………Stacks of books surround me still TO READ,Stemmed glassware is used for ORANGE JUICE and WATER, bread is kept in an old TEA TIN!I DO NEED TO CUT MORE FLOWERS and put them in the HOUSE!That is one place I have FALLEN BEHIND!
  YOUR HOUSE looks like it has been TRANSFORMED…………PS.I WILL BE IN SAN DIEGO IN DECEMBER AT CHATEAU BEL AGE as ARI will be doing a BOOK SIGNING for ADVANCED STYLE!I hope you can make that SATURDAY, DEC. 16 th……..from 1 to 4pm!!!
  BRING THE SCOTSMAN and lets have aTOAST to LIFE!I will introduce YOU two to VALERIE and her main squeeze the ARGENTINEAN!
  XX
Graciela
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 5:27 PM

Bravo, thank you for such a lovely tour! You are one creative woman!

Amazingly, beautiful inside and out! Hope you are doing well.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:08 AM
  
  THANK YOU!
  Hope you are enjoying RETIREMENT!!!
  XX
Brenda Welch
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 5:16 PM

Oooooh MY…..I looove every magical idea you posted!!! I adore the frame around the light switch…….AND the Dress Rack for your pots & pans are BRILLIANT plus the Antique Silver Bowl to hold your DOG DISH!!!!
You are AMAZING & you feed my Soul like no other!!!! Thank You LA CONTESSA
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:10 AM
  
  I have something for your NEW FURRY BABY!!!!!!!!!!!
  DO I have your address?I think SO!
  THANK YOU……….coming from YOU is a REAL HONOR for ME!!!
  YOU MADE MY DAY!!!
  XX
Susan B.
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 5:07 PM

Your decor is so utterly charming…I love it! The frames around the light switches are inspired! I think we should have hired you to be our kitchen designer. Le Monsieur and I always squabble over home decor. He’s more of a traditionalist, I’m more…eclectic. We’re getting ready to renovate our kitchen and one of the bathrooms. I think both rooms need a chandelier! And oh my, your pig is cute but does a pretty good job “disrupting” his environment.
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 6, 2017 at 5:18 PM
  
  Only because the door was left OPEN and when he turns he closes the door and Got Locked IN!!!He was terrified and to think he was in there for Hours!!It’s a MIRACLE there was Not more Damage.
  Xx
Nancy
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 4:58 PM

I am thrilled to have re-connected! So nice to see your home …and hear Giampiero’s voice (as I remember him!)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  November 7, 2017 at 7:11 AM
  
  I will BE CALLING!!!!!!!!!!XX
  PS. HE IS STILL THE SAME 30 YEARS LATER……………….
Cara
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 4:36 PM

WOW! What a fun house. Very cool! Definitely not minimalist– mine isn’t either. Too much that I love.

Thanks!!
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 6, 2017 at 5:21 PM
  
  My Pleasure.
  No Not a Minimalist!!!
  That would Kill ME.
  Xx
Rosemarie
· Reply

November 6, 2017 at 4:27 PM

CONTESSA – loved the tour. Thank you so MUCH for the idea re the frames around the light switches. Crazy electrician made a mess rewiring our old house so plaster fell off around the socket. I couldn’t find larger plates. Didn’t want to do re-plastering. Used small strips of cardboard. Now I know how to HIDE his mess CREATIVELY.

You should send in this idea into house magazines etc.
- La Contessa
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  November 6, 2017 at 5:22 PM
  
  Send me a photo of your Before & After!!