Sunday 3 February 2013

Chandeliers and Champagne

To take Afternoon Tea at The Ritz Hotel in London is a treat. To stay at The Ritz is a luxury. To live at The Ritz for some ten years or so is the making of a legend. Yet this was, and is, the life of Richard Adams and, joy of joys, he is now to be found mostly in Budapest where our worlds collide.

Richard Adams, interior decorator, aesthete, bon viveur, and stylish peacock is a man of extensive and varied sensibilities. Audaciously bold, sharp eyed, quick witted, dramatically gestured and disarmingly attractive, he is prodigiously creative, generous, excellent company, a most loyal friend, and an all round 'good egg'. We love him.

Richard Adams caught in one of many looking glasses in his beautifully styled apartment
  
In Richard's artistic and beautifully manicured hands, clients can be certain that he will bring a civilising, cultured and knowledgeable influence to bear on any decoration scheme. He is master of his Art. And, above all, the end result will be charming, comfortable, elegant and, perhaps most significantly, fun. He is reluctant to describe his decorating style but a close inspection of his Budapest apartment reveals an interior where Neo-Classical with Baroque overtones meet 1960s London Carnaby Street via the Italian Renaissance. It is nothing if not eclectic, never for a moment pretentious and always, at every turn, visually exciting.


seen behind his desk, Richard Adams in the drawing room of his Budapest apartment

a wonderful arrangement of curtains in the drawing room; the chairs, a set of four, are French

A crystal chandelier of impressive proportion dominates the central axes of the drawing room and entrance hall corridor, pulling the visitor in from the moment he or she steps through the door. A white leather sofa, replete with leopard print cushions, is backed by a magnificent mural of St. Peter's in Rome. Silk curtains in shimmering sea-green festoon the high windows and, importantly, cascade onto the floor. Elegant looking glasses play with light and space, objets trouvées delight the guest explorer, plush upholstery is off set by bare stone and skilfully constructed cabinets hide from view those everyday essentials which are deemed to offend the eye. The marble lined bathroom is pure Hollywood.

a chandelier of impressive proportion dominates the central axes of hall and drawing room
    
Richard Adams and Lance Hattatt in conversation seated before the drawing room mural

throughout the apartment looking glasses reflect light and space adding a sense of infinity

a deep, sunken bath  is positioned centre stage in the luxurious, marble lined bathroom

Richard's apartment is testament to the work of a consummate professional. With his sure touch and exacting eye for detail, it is no surprise that his order books read like pages from Debrett's and an International 'Who's Who'. And as for what Richard reads, why 'Vogue', of course!

the lamp is dimmed over the drinks' table, the cat is comfortable, and we are away to dinner




225 comments:

  1. Lovely indulgences as always and such a magnificent chandelier.

    I will not sully this with any mention of what is absent from the sunken bath image.....
    Best wishes
    Jenny

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    1. The chandelier is indeed wonderful. At Christmas, Richard transformed it into a glimmering icy fountain with the addition of crystal droplets attached with invisible thread. It was featured in 'Christmas Interiors' by Mária Csecsódi and looked remarkable!

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  2. What an amazing place, I very much love his desk and those curtains are so grand. It's elegant, yet very inviting to anyone wanting to view treasures or sit. I like that. Am glad you got to go and venture in and thank you for bringing us there too, I very much enjoyed it. Have a wonderful new week :) xx

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    1. Richard is a very good friend and we always enjoy visiting his apartment which, as you say, is both glamorous and yet comfortable. The perfect place to enjoy a glass of chilled champagne before going out to dinner.

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  3. What a stunning apartment! It's elegant but not stuffy, not an easy balance to achieve. I adore that mural over the sofa and love how it and the mirrors play with the perception of space.

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    1. Yes, the easy balance of elegance and warmth are not achieved by many interior decorators and therein, we believe lies Richard's talent.

      The mural is beautifully executed and works very well. It has certainly inspired us to think about what we might have on our walls other than just paint!!

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  4. What a stunning mansion flat, you two run quite the salon, please send out my membership application poste haste.

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    1. The apartment architecturally is very typical of so many to be found in Budapest. But there all similarity ends!!

      We know that you would love it, as do we!!

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  5. Breathtaking.... what a wonderful post!! I can't imagine what a wonderful time you must have had!!
    ~Cheryl

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    1. Every occasion with Richard is a party and the most tremendous fun. We need days to recover afterwards!!!

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  6. Stunning!
    A treat for me to visualize living in a setting so completely different than my own.
    One of Formality . . . Opulence . . . Style . . .
    Ahhhh . . . a sunken bath, surrounded with marble . . . fragrance . . .

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    1. Lynne, the bathroom is pure heaven. Our pictures cannot begin to do it justice. Pure Hollywood glamour.....one cannot help feeling like a film star upon entering!

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  7. Dear Jane and Lance,
    What a lovely compliment to someone who is not only your friend but a very nice man as well.
    Having had the all to brief pleasure in meeting with him last year I agree with your description in toto.

    P.S.
    I do like that desk!

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    1. How well we remember the evening that you came here for dinner, Kirk, all at the last minute but all the more exciting because of it!

      The desk is so elegant and, even when covered with paperwork, looks beautiful.

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  8. Wow what a beautiful apartment, it is stunning. I have to admit though, (even if I could afford it), I am not sure I would be happy living in a place with such elegance. Too much house work keeping it all spotless :-) Keep well Diane

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    1. Richard has a daily who 'comes and does' and so the looking glasses are always glistening. That does add such a wonderful sparkle to the apartment, brightening even the dullest of days!

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  9. Dear Jane and Lance,
    so inspirational (e.g. the drawing room mural), so stylish - and yet living, not a museum: very, very elaborate - a "House in Good Taste". I only got to Afternoon Tea in the Ritz - but the year is still young :-)
    So good for you that Mr. Adams is often in Budapest now - the conversation on the sofa looks really absorbed.

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    1. We do agree, Britta, that Richard has the most impeccable taste and has the ability to make rooms look stylish without ever feeling cold or pretentious.Would that we had such talent!

      It is such a joy for us that Richard spends more of his time in Budapest these days. But, he does lead us into naughty ways!!

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  10. Such elegance and ever so beautifully furnished and decorated .
    Those silk green drapes are to die for Jane and Lance..
    Your friend Richard Adams truly has excellent taste and one can see from your photos that he enjoys what he does too.
    The photo of you on your sidebar is lovely Jane.
    You are both certainly enjoying life to the fullest..
    lovely post.
    Best wishes.
    val

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    1. We should certainly wish to steal the curtains, Val, and the French chairs........and the desk.........and the mural...........and the leather sofas............and the chandeliers.......and the bathroom...entirely!!!

      Thank you for your kind words about the photograph. We are indeed making the most of life at present!

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  11. Good thing that sofa is in front of the mural - Danger of walking into the wall otherwise.

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    1. The mural does have an incredibly realistic feel to it. One does feel transported to Rome!!!

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  12. How beautiful and how nice you are to share this scrumptious place with us. He is indeed a master at interior design.

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    1. We are so pleased that you enjoyed this post. Richard is, we agree, master of his Art.

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  13. What a fabulous place! Amazing mural - so bold to incorporate that. And yet, clearly shown by the cat being so 'at home' - a place to really live in and enjoy; it doesn't seem stuffy / oppressive in spite of the opulence. Thank you for showing us!

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    1. Richard has two Persian cats who are allowed to roam at will and to sit on the furniture. As you say, this is very much a place where one can feel completely relaxed and at home as well as glamorous and elegant.

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  14. Dear Jane and Lance,

    Beautiful! It seems from another era as does your description of the man himself. This post was an absolute treat.

    Amelia

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    1. We do assure you, Amelia, that Richard is very much a man of our times and very 'au fait' with current developments. But we are so pleased that you have enjoyed reading this post.

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  15. He sounds greatly entertaining and fun to be around. I love his apartment, especially that amazing mural and the beautiful window dressings. Very elegant indeed. And he likes cats! What more could I ask for?

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    1. Richard is, as you say, hugely entertaining and we continue to have so many fun times with him and his wide circle of interesting and amusing friends. He most certainly does like cats - and has two!!

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  16. A beautiful apartment, and some wonderful images and descriptions J & L. After your introduction regarding the Ritz, I thought maybe I should see if I could find the photos my daughter took there, when I took her and a cousin to tea there. Jess, my daughter vanished for a while, returning to the tea table having taken several photos of the ladies toilets....she loved them and took pictures from every angle.J.

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    1. You are right, Janice, the apartment is one of which dreams are made - so chic, so stylish.

      What fun that you have pictures taken in The Ritz. Now surely this has all the makings of a fun and rather different post?!!

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  17. tres chic...... i would like to live at the Ritz......at least for a bit!!

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  18. An apartment in Budapest - what dreams are made of. I always enjoy the glimpses of your elegant apartment and found that your friend's didn't disappoint. The curtains are what stand out for me, thought the mirrors and sunken bath are stunning too.
    As much as I loved having a look at such elegance, what I enjoyed most about this post is the evidence of friendship and your appreciation, so beautifully worded, of your friend's gifts.

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    1. We do so agree with you that Richard has such artistry when it comes to the arrangement of curtains. His drawing room ones are of the finest silk and positively shimmer in the light of the lamps.

      He is indeed the most wonderful of friends and we do so enjoy the many times which we spend in his company.

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  19. Dearest Jane and Lane

    I am speechless. This apartment is like a dream. It reminds me of places I have been yet it is original and the proportions are so right in every way. The scale of the chandelier, the mural and then the strategically placed mirrors. I love the photo of Richard through the looking glass. What a genius he is and to think he is also a great guy as he is a friend of yours makes him even more special.

    Helen xx

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    1. The apartment truly is wonderful, Helen and is arranged and furnished with such flair and always with an eye to the smallest detail.

      We are certain that you would love Richard who is the most special of friends. Now all you have to do is get yourselves to Budapest and we shall all have dinner together.

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  20. Hello Jane and Lance, What I like about Adam's style is that, without being tricky or overwhelming, every room seems to have something dramatic or unexpected in it.
    --Road to Parnassus

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    1. It is, Jim, the unerring eye for what will work, and what will not, that makes all of Richard's interiors so particularly effective and, as you say, dramatic.

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  21. The apartment looks beautiful. If i were to go somewhere like that, i think i'd feel i was in another world, very different to mine. Great post!

    Red

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    1. To be in Richard's apartment is to be in another world but one which is always rooted in reality. You would, we know, simply love the drama of it all.

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  22. I occasionally take afternoon tea at Morrison's cafe! I like the leopard print cushions and the fur throw, not a huge fan of muriels, incredible bathroom. I must say, I like your drawing room better. Is it the same Richard Adams who wrote Watership Down?

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    1. The leopard print cushions and the fur throw are simply divine and we should certainly love to steal them. We never thought that we should care for a mural, but we do now and spend our idle moments [of which there are a few]dreaming about what we should have and where.

      Our Richard, born in Virginia, educated in New York and fashioned in London did not, we can assure you, dearest Mitzi, write Watership Down. And, please, we implore you,try to find an alternative to Morrison's café....and not,under any circumstances, venture near Asda's caff!!!!!

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  23. Dear Jane and Lance,
    The apartment is tastefully decorated with beautiful pieces that give a sense of elegance and carefully selected. The photo of you together is beautiful and shows the friendship that connects you!
    Have a nice week !
    Olympia

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    1. Yes, Olympia, you are right. There are so many lovely things, all of which have been chosen with care and all of which have a story to tell.It is, however, the way in which they are put together which is sheer brilliance!

      Thank you for your kind comment. We wish you a happy week too!!

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  24. Hello Jane and Lance, I've came to have a look to your blog. May I stay please?? I think is amazing!!

    Marina from Jerez.

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    1. Thank you so much for your kind words, Marina. We are delighted to welcome you as our latest Follower and hope that you will continue to enjoy what we write!

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  25. What a treat to meet someone with the unwavering attention to detail and unfailing good taste to you Jane and Lance as friends! The color and style of the rooms makes me imagine one might see the ghost of Audrey Hepburn strolling through wear pearls and pajamas and carrying a martini glass.

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    1. Dear Helen, thank you so very much for this generous comment. Richard has known and does know a glittering circle of people into which we feel delighted to be included as friends. Certainly AH could have been in mind when he designed this apartment and now we, fortunate as we are, can be seen wandering from room to room with our champagne flutes. Fully dressed, of course!

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  26. I do particularly like the wall paper behind Lance and mr. Adams
    and the expression "bon viveur" of course : )


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    1. We are so pleased that you like the mural too, Demie, for we think that it is brilliant! It adds tremendous presence to the room without overwhelming it. And, you are so right, where should we all be without the bon viveurs in life?

      Hoping you are well and wishing you a happy week!

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  27. A wonderful insight into "How the other Half" live. I am loving the mural, gives such a wonderful perspective to the space. Champagne and chandeliers, how magnificent!
    Di
    X

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    1. Dianne, we just know that you would love Richard. He does have fabulous taste and enormous flair but this is all tempered by a great sense of humour and a fierce loyalty to his friends which endears him to all who meet him.

      We could not agree more about the mural. And the champagne and chandeliers are, indeed, magnificent.

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  28. When can I meet him?! I think I prefer coming to Budapest first!!! Richards apartment looks very stylish. Although my taste is much more modern, I do like more classical interiors like his. Richard chose a beautiful soft colour scheme for the drawing room. It must be beautiful in the daylight. What a delight and source of inspiration it must be to have friends like Richard.....and all those stories he has to tell. Will you pass them on to me in May?

    Love, Madelief x

    Promise I will bake you a cake or pie :-)

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    1. The minute that you and he are in town together, you must meet, dearest Madelief. It will be love at first sight. You both have such style and simple elegance, but very individual ways of expressing it. Vive la différence!!!

      We shall talk non stop in May......how pleased you will be to see the back of us!! And now cakes and pies, we really need no further encouragement since seeing you, your charming husband and, we are certain, your wonderful family will be such a joy!!!

      Have a happy week. Love to you all, J and L xx

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  29. I have only one word for those (silk?) curtains ... arresting ... I keep scrolling back up for another look.

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    1. There are positively acres of silk in those curtains, Annie, and the colour defies description, changing constantly in different lights.

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  30. Hello Jane and Lance:
    If the time should come when you eventually DO manage to steal the list of Beautiful Things outlined earlier, and should you subsequently find any of them don't fit in your own apartment, I would be only too happy to take a few of them off your hands. In particular, I can think of just the place for those curtains!

    I also have my eye on the picture on the wall behind the cat!

    I have always liked chandeliers to look at, but in the absence of my own "woman who does", I don't feel I would have the patience or ability to keep them clean and sparkling. That one is a real beauty, though!

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    1. If the stolen goods do not fit, we shall throw out other things until they do!!!!

      There are lots of wonderful pictures hanging on the walls and yes, the one on the wall behind the drinks' table is particularly striking.

      Chandeliers do require a lot of maintenance to be absolutely at their sparkling best. When transforming it into a crystal droplet hung Christmas decoration Richard spent days working on it. He has the patience of Job!!!

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  31. It is all somewhat astonishing. Very beautiful, though I fear my little one would trash it in minutes!

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    1. Lack of any experience means that neither our apartment nor Richard's is, probably, suitable for small children. Do not touch would have to be a permanent refrain!

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  32. Hi Jane and Lance,

    This is a wonderfully written and photographed article and very evocative. Chandeliers and champagne at the Ritz... now that's the lifestyle I adore. I've read recently that afternoon teas at the Ritz are all the rage; I was born and raised in Galveston, Texas, and there, afternoon tea was never such an occasion. It's nice to see it celebrated.

    Fanny xx

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    1. And, believe us when we say that champagne at Richard's apartment can eclipse Afternoon Tea at The Ritz any day!

      Although we have never been to the USA, we can well imagine that in Texas tea is taken rather differently!!

      Thank you so much for becoming a Follower, no doubt introduced to us by our darling Mitzi!!!

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  33. I do like that everyday essential items are hidden and mural is certainly impressive. The apartment suits chandeliers but many don't and they can look absurd and pretentious.

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    1. As with so many apartments in Budapest, Richard's apartment benefits from very high ceilings which lend themselves to such dramatic treatment.

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  34. Your post comes at an apt moment...the house in San Jose is almost ready to be 'clothed', as it were, and the plethora of ideas presented gives scope to adapt!

    I rather covet those curtains, but fear I am far down the line of eager takers..

    Mirrors I have, brought from France and still in their cases, but fall down badly in the chandelier stakes as currently three insect catchers have built nests in the one which lights...or lit...the balcony.
    No movement until the families leave...

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    1. How really exciting, Helen, that you have at last reached the stage with your new house when you can start to think about soft furnishings and how things are to be arranged. There are though so many sources of inspiration that it can all become very confusing.

      We love the idea of nests having been built in your exterior chandelier. Now that really is 'shabby chic' [and to be encouraged!!].

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  35. I'm a complete sucker for the puddled curtains!

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    1. They are, believe us, absolutely fabulous. But then so is the whole apartment.

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  36. What a beautifully stylish and elegant apartment Jane and Lance. Thanks so much for showing it to us. Those curtains take my breath away - they are perfection.

    I love the reflection of chandeliers and general gorgeousness highlighted in all the mirrors.....sigh!

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    1. The use of a myriad of looking glasses, Yvette, to reflect light and space is one of the great joys of this apartment. And the placing of each is so very cleverly considered for maximum effect.

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  37. Dear Jane and Lance,
    How positively decadent and beautifully put together, as it should be, if conceived and carried out by Richard Adams........ and, even more wonderful to live amongst it all !!
    We have taken tea at The Ritz and will be taking tea at Claridges soon, thanks to a lovely Christmas present, but, to live at The Ritz for ten years is just slightly out of our league !!!! haha.
    ......... that mural is wonderful. A very talented designer is your Richard ! XXXX

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    1. It is, as you so rightly say, Jackie, beautifully put together and is, as you surmise, a reflection of a mind which is so very acutely honed to the work in hand and where everything is executed to the highest professional standard.

      Tea to come at Claridges. Now how divine is that and what a wonderfully imaginative Christmas present to be the recipient of. Deep, deep sighs here!!!

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  38. What a treat to get these glimpses into this remarkable home! I am blown away by the mural.

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    1. The extraordinary thing about the mural is that it makes such a statement in the drawing room yet never, from any angle, does it either dominate or overpower. We just love it.

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  39. OMG, all I have to do this afternoon is attempt to watch the Super Bowl with friends and hope Beyonce doesn't show too much skin. I think I like your life much better than mine. xx's

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    1. It has to be said, Marsha, we do rather enjoy our lives. But then, each to his, or her, own!!

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  40. I wish that I could mix different decorating styles so effortlessly. And what a gorgeous chandelier.

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    1. Richard does have a very keen, professional eye for all aspects of interior decoration and, as a consequence, does achieve outstanding results.

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  41. It seems that when a designer is confident enough for eclecticism, that the rooms come to life. That's certainly true here--so many wonderful individual pieces, that also harmonize beautifully. One would never get tired of those rooms--they would always be interesting.

    The mural is extraordinary, the seafoam curtains beautiful, and the bath serene.

    I am a bit envious--I have a longtime fantasy of living in a hotel!

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    1. You are so right in your observations here, Jen. It is a matter of confidence, combined with an inherent skill and a professionalism, which ensure the kinds of results which Richard achieves.

      We too share your fantasy of living in an hotel - something which, in our minds, we have reserved for our extreme old age.

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  42. I can't believe you made it happen. You wished it and now it is. I mean I *can* believe it. I'm just ... stunned, I guess. I don't know. Seeing the inspiration courtesy of Lord Berners side by side with fruition. The proverb has it, 'hope deferred makes the heart sick.'

    What of hope realized!?

    What quiet glory dances here.

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    1. "What quiet glory dances here". Nothing, dear, dear FGD, can more beautifully sum up the sheer brilliance of Richard's apartment and the friendship which he so willingly extends to all who come into contact with him. But then we should not be surprised, for you are a writer and words are your tools.

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  43. My dearest Jane and Lance, The words can't describe the impeccable taste of Mr. Richard Adams. Thank you so much for perfectly capturing his idiosyncratic world with your delightful words. I've always loved sumptuous interiors. This interior reminds me of beautiful old châteaux with long elegant corridors and archways in French films, especially, the exquisite "Last Year at Marienbad", (1961)directed by Alain Resnais.

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    1. Oh, ASD, 'Last Year at Marienbad', how you take us back so many, many years. Yes, as you say, Richard's apartment, his decorating style, his wonderful personality are all redolent of all our yesterdays and of all our tomorrows combined together in a wonderful present.

      Now you really must travel to Budapest for we know you will love him as much as we do.

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  44. Hello Jane and Lance,
    What a lovely post, so sumptious and elegant! Rather like a palace...i thought it was interesting that you mentioned Richard living at the Ritz...i just finished a book about Chanel, and Coco lived at the Ritz in Paris for years too! It seems that your friend Richard and she have good taste in common:) Lovely post.
    all the best.
    Sally

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    1. So many wonderfully interesting people have spent so much time in glorious hotels - and Richard is not the least among them. We were always somewhat in awe of Emerald Cunard who spent the war years ensconced in the Dorchester!

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  45. Here we are back at "lustra" again! (And your friend's is spectacular!)
    Well, the real sparkle and joy is in this marvelous friendship....
    Richard Adams is wonderfully talented....what a beautiful and glamorous home, yet he knows just where to leave something out...or keep it simple....stunning.
    That mural is amazing!

    I so admire your gift for writing...you always leave me wanting more!! :)
    Much love,
    - Irina

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    1. Irina, how wonderful that you have singled out the 'real sparkle and joy' being in the many, many friendships which form such a major part of Richard's life. Yes, his apartment is simply magnificent but it is the warmth of his personality which comes through in all that he does.

      And thank you. You are such a loyal 'Follower' and we appreciate it immensely.

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    2. Thank you, beautiful and gracious Jane and Lance.
      Your warmth, kindness, and wit inspire me to be a better person...I really mean that.
      As a dear friend once said to me, the online connections and friendships may be "virtual", but most truly come from the soul...kindred spirits from all over the globe bonding over shared interests and the desire to make this world just a little bit smaller, cozier, kinder....
      Bless you both...
      And thank you so much for leaving me a message regarding your reply!
      Alas, I believe it disappeared into the blogger netherworld! :)
      Wishing you a glorious week,
      - Irina

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    3. We are constantly amazed at the way in which the virtual world does enable very real friendships to form which are, in our view, of equal value to those which exist in the world at large. And no more is this so than of the genuine warmth and amity which radiates from you through all of your comments, your joyous posts and what is, unmistakably, a joy in life which is, believe us, infectious. Our lives are enriched by you, and for this we thank you.

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  46. Yes that chandelier is wonderful as is the rest of the apartment. Thank you for sharing these lovely photos they're stunning. Lovely post.
    Patricia x

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    1. We are so delighted, Patricia, that you have enjoyed this post. In truth, though, our photographs do not in any way do the apartment justice.

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  47. Dear Jane and Lance - the architectural mural depicting St. Peter's in Rome is glorious in both depth and detail - for all the world both yourself and Richard Adams look as if you could be enjoying a tête-à-tête in St. Peter's itself.

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    1. Oh, Rosemary, we are so pleased that you like the mural of St. Peter's for it is in every way, as you say, glorious. We doubt that we should have got the champagne into the actual basilica!!

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  48. Deliciously eclectic and it looks like the apartment has achieved that elusive sense of glamour with wit entailed? An absolutely fascinating glimpse from your personal perspective, which makes me feel as if I am actually stepping through those interesting rooms.

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    1. There is, as you so rightly point out, Virginia, elements of humour in Richard's apartment which are very much in line with his personality. With your own particular interest in interiors, we are sure that you would find these rooms endlessly fascinating.

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  49. As sublime as your dear friend's abode is--and it most certainly is--I do believe what struck me most is that such a tastemaker has been awarded "good egg" status by you both. For kindness is the ultimate purveyor of taste is it not?

    And now, firmly tucked in with blankets up to my chin, I wish you both goodnight from Arles,
    Gros Bisous,
    H

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    1. In our experience, as we are certain is the case with you, dearest Heather, a little kindness is always returned in plenty.

      And now on this grey morning in Budapest we are sending our very best wishes for the coming week.

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  50. What a beautifully decorated apartment with the pièce de résistance no doubt being those chandeliers! Fifi x

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    1. It is indeed all very magnificent, Fifi, but also very personal and, of course, very much a home.

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  51. What a splendiferous pad! Beautiful in every fine detail, and there is nothing so wonderful as mirrors for bringing a place to life, and those are proper, fully-fledged, sock-it-to-'em mirrors!
    The mural is truly spectacular - so much so, that I expect you are constantly listening for an echo as you converse in the drawing room.
    The chandelier is gorgeous. I think I would have been sorely tempted to leave the icicles up all year round!
    Thank you for a glimpse into another of Budapests glorious apartments.

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    1. It is possibly the attention to detail throughout the whole apartment, Lorely, which makes it so very special and gives it that certain edge.

      The chandelier, as dressed for Christmas, was indeed amazing both in concept and in execution and positively glittered in a way impossible to describe.

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    2. It sounds completely wonderful! As you say, attention to detail.

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    3. It is that which, in our view, always marks something out as special.

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  52. I had dinner with an Iranian princess last night, but I still haven't forked out the 20 quid that the Ritz charges for a G and T. We really must get around to it.

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    1. Iranian princesses at large in Bath, Tom. Now what great fun is that. The bar of The Ritz is possibly a little overpriced to become one's local, but then....!

      Delete
  53. Beautiful apartment - thanks for sharing this. I'm sure it has just the right amount of ambiance and atmosphere. The mural is amazing!

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    1. The mural itself is such a 'tour de force' and really works in the room. An idea most certainly to be borne in mind.

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  54. Hi Jane and Lance, thank you for your kind comments regarding our flood event in Queensland. We are all fine, our house is high and dry. Your friends house is both elegant and glamourous. Those curtains are very dramatic and beautiful. He sounds like a good friend which is far more valuable than what he lives in.

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    1. We are so pleased to know that all is well with you in Queensland, Carol. So very many people have lost so much and it will take so long before everything is once more returned to what it was.

      Richard is the most wonderful of friends who enriches lives at every turn.

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  55. Dear Jane and Lance - Nonetheless you can now say that you've had champagne with the interior of St. Peter's as a backdrop. I would so love to swap out my bathroom for Richard Adams'!

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    1. Indeed, Mark, we had not quite thought of that rather splendid thought.

      As for the bathroom, we certainly dare not compare it with our own which, Spartan as it is, we try to argue is in Country House style!!

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  56. I am not sure what to say but absolutely BEAUTIFUL !
    All the photos are wonderful but my favorite is the last one. le sigh.

    cheers, parsnip

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    1. We are so delighted that you like it all, Gayle. The final image does, we feel, convey the warmth and atmosphere which runs throughout the apartment.

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  57. Hello Jane & Lance,
    You're friend Richard has quite a flambuoyant style in just about all that he surrounds himself with, and must be a wheeze to be around. Just as with planning the landscaping of other peoples gardens, I would find interior design difficult when it came to making compromises that the client insists on, and it becomes a style that I hate. In my case it would be timber decking and a heather bed. Lastly, I love the way you descibe the style of his apartment!

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    1. Richard does indeed have enormous style which, we know, is so valued by all of his clients. But it is not simply that, but also a mind which is endlessly creative and a manner of working which is never other than truly professional.

      As for timber decking and heathers, enough said except to add in the vast majority of conifers. Ghastly!

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  58. Golly, what opulence. What breathtaking theatre. What humour, (I hope). What style.
    Open-mouthed in total admiration as well as suppressing irreverent giggles, that’s me.

    Your description is the best thing about R.A. and his splendid apartment.

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    1. It may of course appear very grand, which obviously it is, but the whole apartment whilst arranged with the greatest attention to detail is very much a comfortable and welcoming home in which guests are made to feel, and do, very much at ease. And yes, there are many instances of humour.

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  59. You had me at the drapes! Unfortunately my husband likes to have a say in our decorating, and that look is too fussy for him.
    I can only imagine how very interesting Richard would be as a dinner party guest...

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    1. The curtains are absolutely lovely and 'full' in a manner which one seldom sees. Far too many people, in our view, are inclined to skimp on the amount of material required to furnish a window effectively.

      Richard is the most perfect of dinner party guests and always much in demand.

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  60. Hello Lance and Jane, and thank you and your talented host for sharing these splendid photos of an elegant home.

    It's fun to see the witty inclusion of stylistic touches that honor the "bones" of the apartment very well. I imagine that having mirrors, invisible cabinets and that amazing mural wall are only a few of the touches that allow this space to sing. There seems to be a fine mix of excitement and serenity.

    Curious person that I am, I wonder what the apartment looked like before Richard Adams began to work his magic.

    Best wishes. xo

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    1. We are so pleased, Frances, that you have enjoyed this post featuring Richard's apartment. It is, as you so rightly imagine, a wonderful blend of many different ideas and styles which, with his indomitable touch, come together in a cohesive whole which does, to borrow from you, positively 'sing'.

      When he purchased it it was, sadly, a complete wreck. Not only did he have to renew ceilings, replace windows and doors, alter the position of some walls, change over the kitchen and bathroom, rewire and install modern heating but also completely renovate the floors throughout and redecorate everywhere. It was the kind of undertaking which many of us would shy away from.

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    2. Thank you all for your reply to my question. Your answer about what Mr Adams first saw, and what he did to make possible and stylishly apparent in what we saw in your photos, well, I think that I would like to send along an additional round of applause to this talented man.

      I know that I would have been one to shy away. It actually took me over twenty years to have the courage to attempt having my little NYC apartment painted. The results rewarded me for my overdue bravery!

      xo

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    3. We shall certainly pass on your good wishes to Richard when we see him this coming weekend.

      Perhaps you are a little like us in that we hate having workmen in and so, very often, it is easier to leave things as they are! That said, we did in the United Kingdom once have some really superb women decorators.

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  61. What a fun apartment... and his curtains are cousins to those in my bedroom... I love that color and the mural as well. Sounds like you had a great visit with a lovely talented man. Good for him to reclaim a wreck –– it gives one a great feeling of satisfaction to do it.

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    1. Yes, Deana, Richard's apartment is enormous fun as well as being incredibly elegant. We do have wonderful times whenever we are together but he is naughty and leads us into naughty ways too!!

      We honestly believe that Richard could stand in any wrecked room and come up with a brilliant solution for it. He has the most amazing talent for visualising and utilising space to the best advantage.

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  62. Dear Lance and Jane - Why am I still smiling after reading your post? By the time I got to the end of it I was expecting a punch line for some reason! Your description of this pretty amazing abode (and its occupant) read like you had swallowed a very high end Estate (Property?) Agent's bible and you were 'selling' the apartment so well. Do accept my apologies for not teasing you with an offer at this time. Beautiful though it is, I have a notion that it might be ever so slightly outwith my price range.....!

    Who on earth lives in the Ritz for 10 years unless they are part owners of it?!

    I'm not sure if you caught the BBC2 series of 3 programmes called "Inside Claridges", which you may be able to see online http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01p7nd3. It was compelling viewing and somehow being the little person watching wealthy people being indulged didn't make me feel in any way small. It was extremely interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes to justify the huge expense of dining/staying there.

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    1. A friend and where he lives, Isobel, nothing more. Although we do have to admit that it is a very special apartment and Richard is a one-off. There is nobody like him that we know and he has a prodigious talent for interior decoration. There is simply nothing he does not know about curtains!!!!!

      We too found it extraordinary that someone should live at The Ritz for 10 years but that is exactly what he did. With London prices as they are, this might make financial sense....whatever, there would always be the most delicious teas on tap!

      We do not have a television but shall try to seek out the programme you mention here. It sounds most intriguing and would definitely be something which we should enjoy watching. How the other half lives, indeed but we, and we are sure you, are content!!!

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  63. Wow. I love the infinity mirrors, the bath and the cat on the gorgeous chair.

    ....wonder what he'd make of our IKEA apartment with original orange flowered wall tiles from 1970?

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    1. Now, Kath, if we are to be brutally honest, then Richard probably does not 'do' IKEA!!

      However, we do think that your wall tiles, dating from the 1970s, are now considered to be highly retro and therefore very fashionable. Hang on to them for everything comes around!

      Delete
  64. Pretty famous hotel, very neat!

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  65. Richard's apartment looks amazing and those silk curtains are fantastic. It must have been incredible to have lived in the Ritz for so many years. You seem to meet such interesting people.
    Sarah x

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    1. We do have difficulty, Sarah, in imagining a life in The Ritz for a decade but, we dare say, we could get used to it!

      We are very fortunate to count amongst our friends a number of highly talented and imaginative people, including dear Richard, in whose company we enjoy enormous fun!

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  66. As always a wonderful, elegant and informative post. What stuck me the most is the colour of the curtains. The thing is, there are curtain in my bedroom that have the same colour, although they are much more modest. Lately, I've been crazy about this colour.

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    1. We could not agree with you more, Olga, about the curtain colour. Difficult to describe exactly but so very effective particularly as a foil, as in Richard's apartment, to so many other things.

      Delete
  67. Incredible mural, and of course nothing speaks more eloquently to the excellence of a place than a comfortable cat!

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    1. A cat, or so we feel, Susan, always makes for a comfortable home. We had two, both dead now, and miss them dreadfully.

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  68. What a beautifully styled apartment,
    well as if we expect anything less from Mr Adams.
    That chandelier is so lovely and those curtains so luxurious and fabulous.
    You are lucky you have very talented and interesting friends,
    makes your post a very interesting read.

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    1. The apartment is, we agree, Ann, absolutely wonderful down to the smallest detail and everything so exceptionally well executed.

      We are, as you say, very fortunate to have many creative and talented friends.

      Delete
  69. The sea-green silk curtains, the mural and the marble bath are my favourite features in these pictures, while I am not so sure about the leopard-print cushions (but that's just me and my general dislike for animal prints).
    If you had not mentioned the cat, I would never have spotted her (or him) on the last picture!

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    1. We quite understand about the leopard print cushions, Meike, which are, as with many things, something one either likes or does not. For ourselves, we simply love them and should like to track down something similar for our own apartment.

      The cat, one of two Persians, merges rather well into the background!

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  70. Dear Jane and Lance,
    like everyone else, I'm impressed. A high stylishness has been achieved without complication. The mural is amazing; I can't begin to think how it's been done. What better sign of a perfectly executed design than a snoozing Persian!

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    1. We do agree, Faisal, that the mural is totally amazing. And what an idea to conceive it in the first place and then to be certain that it would 'work' so well.

      A contented cat is surely the sign of a happy home!!

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  71. Dear Jane and Lance,

    Thank you so very much for your support.. It has been really long in deed, hardly dropped by here, I am sorry..
    This is an interesting post.
    Richard is such a cultured and sophisticated man, he has his own unique taste and sense. I have been eyeing at the Baroque style desk in the second photo, love that, hattatt ;)
    I will see you both around, take care <3

    With loves,
    Om Shanti...
    Gerald

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    Replies
    1. You are always really welcome, Gerald, and we are so pleased to be in touch - it never matters how much or how often.

      Richard does have such good ideas and an excellent eye for arranging things and his taste is, as yours, unique. We do agree about the desk - to be highly coveted!!

      Delete
  72. Everything is beautiful. Now, if only I could get my husband to put away all his 'everyday essentials' which offend my eye!

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    1. Why is it, Marina, that one's own life is filled with things which one would rather be without but which, somehow or other, become essential?

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  73. All very beautiful. Saw the cat, thought, how homely.

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    1. The cats, of which there are two, both Persian, are absolutely adorable.

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  74. Jane and Lance, you two seem to know a lot of people possessing fine and elegant taste. Although there is not a curtain to be seen in our home, I'm smitten by those luxurious silk curtains which puddle the floor. xx

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    1. We are fortunate to have many friends all of whom are very different but all of whom are interesting and whose lives are endlessly fascinating.

      You may not have curtains yourself but we have followed with great interest, and not a little envy, all that you have been doing with your own most intriguing house.

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  75. Love how the looking glass is framed with molding to fit within the room; the mural is amazing to see, and every home needs a cat to make it a bit more comfortable looking and encourage relaxation.

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    1. It is Richard's unerring eye for detail, as in the treatment of the looking glasses, which makes his apartment so very distinctive, Linda.

      And we most certainly agree with you about the need for every home to have a cat [or possibly a dog].

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  76. Richard sounds like a very accomplished man, and I do love the effect of the drapes and the color associations...And he is also a most charming gentleman :). Quite hard to resist :).

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    1. Accomplished in so many ways, Petronela, and always great company. Yes, the curtains are fabulous - we are trying to work out how we may steal them!!

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  77. Goodness i feel out of my deepth today with that stunning home. A completely different life style he leads to me and one i find hard to grasp. But beautiful and very grand it certainly is and he sounds like a wonderful person and a good friend. A lovely combination thats is sure. dee x

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    1. But, Dee, isn't it wonderful that we are all so very different? What a dull place the world would be if we all liked the same things and lived in the same way.

      And you are right, Richard is an exceptionally kind and generous person. And that is all that matters in life.

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  78. What a fabulous friend you have. All that silk....sigh
    His home is charming, elegant and visually exciting
    and I love that he has a cat.

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    1. We are so pleased, Suz, that you too find the apartment 'visually exciting'. And we too love the curtains!

      Two cats, actually, but only one deigned to be photographed!

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  79. Well, the truth is that I fell in love with Richard on your first blog introduction. What a delight to have a visual tour of his exquisitely furnished and appointed apartment. As one who loves English/French antiques, I have a decidedly "eclectic" bent which often runs out of control. There is a large painting sitting in my upstairs office which was a bit too eclectic for our home.

    The full personality of Richard is evident in your reflections of him. What a talented, energetic, interesting (and interested) friend. He gets extra points for having two cats - hah!

    Bises,
    Genie

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    1. This is so very sweet and kind of you, Genie. We are of course delighted that you have enjoyed the 'virtual' tour of Richard's apartment and are so pleased that the post does, if only in a small part, reflect something of his very warm, outgoing personality. We too agree about extra points for the cats!!

      The painting which you have in your office sounds most intriguing. Could it be incorporated into 'Paris and Beyond' at some point?!!

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    2. Your question caused me to laugh out loud as few have seen my folly of a purchase. I will share a photo of it with you one day.

      I look forward to more tales of the Jane, Lance, Richard adventures.

      Bises,
      Genie

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    3. Now we shall keep you to that, Genie. Or maybe when your long awaited, and eagerly anticipated, visit to Budapest does take place then you will come armed with several photographs of the painting. And what adventures the five of us will have then!!

      Delete
  80. Oh your apartment is so FANTASTIC, Jane!

    AND I thank you for your visit today. Anita

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    1. Alas, Anita, the apartment does not belong to us. Would that that were so.

      Delete
  81. Dear Jane and Lance,

    I read, I immerse myself in the splendour and the charm before my eyes. Richard Adams, Jane and Lance Hattatt and a comfortable cat. And a glowing chandelier that is symbolic of my hopeful wishes.

    Peace to you all and thank you for your kindness and support. I'm profoundly grateful.

    With respect and kind wishes,

    Gary

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    1. You are so very kind, Gary. We do so enjoy our time spent in Richard's apartment which has, as you say, both splendour and charm and yet is a very real and comfortable home.

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  82. Your friend's home is brilliantly designed, with favorite elements for me being the marble bath, the chandelier and the mural, which looks like one could walk into the scene.

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    1. The bathroom really is out of this world, the very height of luxury spelt out with an apparent understated simplicity which belies its opulence.

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  83. You gave the style a wonderful description: Neo-Classical with Baroque overtones, plus a bit of 1960s London Carnaby Street via the Italian Renaissance :) The Italianate drawing room mural, in particular, certainly catches the eye.

    Were the photos taken at night?

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    1. The apartment is, as you observe here, Hels, an imaginative and very carefully chosen mixture of styles which gives it its own particularly unique style.

      Yes, the photographs were taken in the evening towards the end of January.

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  84. It is lovely, hard for me to imagine living in a place like that - where would I drop my dirty pants and wet towel?

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    1. Hence the need for cabinets to hide those everyday essentials!!

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  85. Thanks for visiting my blog. I just saw yours and I liked it, I'll stay a while watching.

    Best regards,

    Peter

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    1. We are delighted to have discovered you as we are to welcome you here, Peter. Thank you for becoming a Follower and we very much hope that you will also enjoy future posts.

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  86. Very classy interior design! Living at the Ritz makes me think of Eloise at the Plaza. You have such interesting friends.

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    1. There are, we can imagine, many similarities between the six year old Eloise living in the penthouse at the Plaza Hotel in New York and Richard in The Ritz!!They are both irrepressible......and fun!!

      We count ourselves very fortunate indeed to have so many interesting friends who are great company.

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  87. Hello Jane and Lance,

    What a stunning home, so very elegant but welcoming. The mural is really special, something I would never tire of. The Ritz hotel is special for drinks, but to live there... such style! Please, do tell me, does it smell like heaven also? I adore visiting friends homes and associating them with wonderful and exotic perfumes (It's always in the detail!)...
    Best wishes to you both,
    Ivan

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    1. Richard's apartment is, as you so rightly assume, Ivan, absolutely stunning and he does, in the manner of a true professional, have an eye for the smallest of details and is, understandably, intolerant of imperfections.

      And yes, to answer your question, there is always a very faint air about it all of something discreet and alluring. But that too is Richard!!

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  88. Oh just so, so beautiful. I love that throwaway line ' the drawing room mural'....Axxx

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    1. The whole apartment is, as you say, Annie, very beautiful indeed. There is not a single thing about it which we dislike.

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  89. This is wonderful! I very much appreciate the thought of a marriage between the Baroque and London Carnaby Street. This 'style' is absolutely my cup of tea and, dare I say, what a classy act Mr. Richards is! I imagine he will have few regrets at the end of this long, rich life. Oh, and think of the teas he must have downed at the Ritz!

    Stephanie (Who has been away for far too long.)

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    1. We are of course delighted to know, Stephanie, that Richard's apartment is so very much your kind of thing. It does indeed, in our view, emanate style and is also a reflection of a very distinctive personality.

      You have been very much missed. Welcome back!

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  90. Elegance is the only word that comes to mind after reading this post, and even that seems like a pathetic understatement. What a heady combination of sophistication and mood the decors create - stunning and warm at once. The unusual shade of the curtains drew me the most, particularly the way they cascade onto the floor.

    Thank you for sharing this slice of heaven!

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    1. Dear Suman, we are so pleased that you found Richard's apartment as stunning as we do. As you say, it is a 'heady' combination of so many seemingly disparate elements, all of which he combines so skilfully into a warm and welcoming whole.

      The colour of the curtains defies the limits of our description.They are just like the waves of the sea crashing onto the shore!

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  91. Wow. I nearly missed this fabulously elegant apartment!
    I am most relieved that the exquisite sea green, silk curtains cascade onto the floor, although I'm sure Richard would never neglect that kind of detail!

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    1. Oh yes, Penny, so important to have curtains pooling onto the floor. And yet, one sees 'ballet length'[as we refer to them!] curtains, far too short for the windows, very often. Windows should be fully dressed not half naked in our view and, clearly, Richard agrees!!

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  92. What a dream , I would love to just walk through an elegant apartment like that , once in my life would do

    Then I could whine about my common life and wish for such a place,
    As a little girl I always dreamed of growing up to be a wealthy person( still dreaming ) LOL

    Thanks for the lovely tour

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    1. The apartment is indeed most elegant and we are so very pleased that you like it too. Its success is to a very large extent the result of a very creative and imaginative mind.

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  93. Im'm thinking of Lance "in conversation" with Richard and wondered if I could order a copy.

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    1. We love this pithy and very witty comment, Paul. We are determined that, come what may, you both will find yourself 'in conversation' with Richard for we are determined to get you all together. Such fun will be had!

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  94. Dear Jane and Lance, I do wish I had found your beautiful blog a little sooner; your images are wonderful. I too am loving the mural and the elegant curtains (and everything else!) in Richard's apartment. How delightful to have your friend nearby in Budapest. I have happily added your blog to my blog roll.
    Patricia

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    1. This is most kind and generous of you, Patricia.

      We are so delighted that you also admire and like Richard's apartment and yes, we are so fortunate to have him living close by and to be able to share together in so very many things.

      Thank you so much for becoming a Follower. We shall now look forward to visiting you!!

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  95. Hello Jane and Lance- Oh what a beautiful apartment! It looks to be the sort of magical place where you feel the need to be wearing ' a skirt with a swish' as you glide beneath the chandelier with glass of champagne in hand... Jane xx

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  96. What a man! Even his clothes look to be colour co-ordinated to go with the interior of the apartment.

    ReplyDelete

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