Thursday, June 11, 2009

Tablescape Thursday: Cote de Texas Style

To say that I am a fan of Joni Webb and her blog, Cote de Texas, is most likely an understatement. I can't remember when or how I came to know her inspirational design blog, or the sweet voice behind the blog itself - but I will tell you that my ideas on interior design have been forever changed for the better because of Joni and her unique vision, and superb aesthetic for everything French. Plus, she is as delightful as they come.

So, for this week's Tablescape Thursday hosted by the always extraordinary Susan at Between Naps on the Porch, I decided to work on a Cote de Texas inspired tablescape - worthy of a brunch with Joni herself. Please, Enjoy!


It's hard to believe that these chairs started out as lowly bentwood candycane chairs in a really brassy wood tone. With some ingenuity, paint, and fabric, I tried to transform these chairs visually - establishing lines which mimic the most charming of all French accent chairs - the slipper chair.


As most of you know - or will soon find, Joni is a fan of slipcovers, and white slipcovers at that. You'd also be hard pressed to find anything that wasn't overstuffed with down at her house - or the homes of her many, very impressed clients. Her sweet dogs even lounge about on fluffy down doggy beds. So as I sat at the sewing machine working tirelessly on these slips, I kept in mind those important details Joni never leaves unfinished. For someone with very little stock of French goods, and even less sewing talent - I think the 2-hours per chair I spent making these slips really "Frenched" them up.


When it came to the table, no ordinary table would do. With her newest radio blog endeavor, the Skirted Roundtable with Megan at Beach Bungalow 8, and Linda at ::Surroundings::, a skirted round table just had to help finish off the look. After sewing a hem in more than 6 yards of burlap, and pulling elastic through - I think I managed to attain the look of the Pam Pierce table skirt used in the Skirted Roundtable header. Double pleated and oh so textural - it's a Joni favorite, and one I hope I've gotten right.
Of course, a tablescape isn't a tablescape without the tabletop. Enter these gorgeous crystal chargers with a Fleur De lis detail. These scream French, don't you think?

And they're the perfect compliment to the woman who wears diamond Fleur De lis earrings everyday! Layered with simple white ironstone - a favorite of Joni's, and softened by a napkin made from a seafoam check, like the signature Chelsea Editions Joni must buy by the bolt, it makes for a delightful brunch setting. I used my bamboo handled flatware, again - such a favorite of mine when paired with the burlap, and brought out the crystal stemware to help tie in the beautiful chargers.
No Joni/Cote de Texas room or tabletop would be complete without her signature use of Blue and White Chinese Porcelain. A favorite of Joni's, you see it perched throughout her home, on floors, mantles, shelves, and desks. Bowls filled with white roses made for the perfect picture in her Houston House and Home feature, and a large antique Blue and White fish bowl filled with family pictures made its way into Joni's Better Homes and Garden's feature. So it was only fair that I pull together some of my blue and white pieces to help accessorize this space and the table in true Joni fashion.



Gorgeous peonies, (thanks to my friend Margaret and her beautiful gardens) make for the perfect splash of color, and believe it or not - I think Joni has a thing for Pink.

So there you have it - my Cote de Texas inspired Tablescape Thursday. I hope that even with my C+ sewing, it's worthy of an A. Now leave your thoughts here, and head on over to Susan's for more fantastic tablescapes!

64 comments:

  1. Artie...this is wonderful...Joni is going to just love this! Those super fluffy down cushions make those chairs looks so extra comfy! Your crystal chargers and stemware are beautiful...and I just love your outdoor setting! Now I want to go visit Joni's blog and see all the wonderful things you've mentioned! :-) Susan

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  2. Wow! what a great effort you put into this tablescape. The hours of sewing really paid off - it looks fabulous!!! I think Joni would be flattered to see how you have honored her with this beautifully Cote de Texas inspired table.

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  3. Artie! I enjoy visiting here and seeing your creativity and how you put a tablescape together. I'm always impressed. My daughter and I are going to try to do a Bohemian effect in our patio for her girlfriends bridal shower. I'm working off your inspiration :0)

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  4. Hello Artie,

    Thank you for visiting. I love the garden setting for this tablescape! Thanks for sharing.

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  5. Oh my but it is so lovely that I feel like walking right into the photos. Thanks for visiting my blog today and commenting on the box lunch baby shower.
    Joyce

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  6. Artie, this is so elegant, so Frenchy, so Joniish! Great job!...Christine

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  7. What can I say? Artie, you have to be the sweetest man on this blessed earth! This is just more than anyone could even have imagined. You got every single detail (I'm going to kill you over the earrings! haha) - the blue and white, the pink peonies - yes! - the white slips, the down!!! the skirted table with the Pam Pierce detailing. I am just overwhelmed by you and your sweetness. What a doll you are!!!!
    OMG - Scott is one lucky man.

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  8. Hi Artie, gosh I have sure missed buzzing about...I have missed so many of my blogging design friends! Work has kept me entirely too busy, but a Muse just has to get out and play sometime!

    I really use burlap a lot, in such a myriad of ways...funny, the first initial reaction by clients is "oooo, burlap?" lol...

    Then, something magic happens, like your tablescape...and voila...converts! LOL

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  9. Your tablescape is just beautiful! I'm so glad you came by my blog because it brought me over here! I bet that burlap was messy! But it really looks gorgeous on this table. And I'm so impressed with your slipcovers...i myself do not like to sew whenever possible! I love your blue and white ginger jars with this! Thank you for sharing! God Bless! Lauralu :)

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  10. Artie -- I was waiting for this post -- you tempted us with a hint of your plans.

    CDT is a favorite of mine as well and believe me, you have nailed it!
    It is perfect! It looks like it could have come from the CDT!

    I am overwhelmed by the slipcovers and the skirted table -- and your choices for the tabletops -- perfect!

    What impresses me, too, is the large plant blooming in the black planter in the background -- it is stunning! Is it a begonia?

    I'm still in awe -- and am going back to take in every single detail!

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  11. Love the skirted round table burlap cloth. I've seen a lot of burlap in the blogsphere, but this is really unique!

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  12. Très beau, très français! Joni devrait être impressionné. Je sais que je suis.


    Very beautiful, very French! Joni should be impressed. I know I am.
    You did a spetacular job Artie! The luxury of the 'down' cushions was definitely the crowning touch.
    Hugs -Brenda-

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  13. Just WONDERFUL. I am visiting via Beach House Dream. I came to see the other person who has never had a picnic! This is just fabulous, and I think if you ate out here, it would be fairly close to a picnic, without the ants! Lovely handiwork. I'll be back for more please. Julie

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  14. Hi Artie,
    Thanks for the flattering words on my blog, though you can't really go wrong when you use nature as a design element. I'm so honored, knowing that it came from a design guru like you. :)

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  15. Gorgeous! I'm sure she'll love it!

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  16. Beautiful Alfresco vignette! Love the overstuffed chairs! I have a ton of blue/white urns and wot not. You've inspired me to use them for my next (2nd) TT!

    Everything is lovely.

    Thank you for sharing.

    Tina

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  17. Artie, Your tablescape is wonderful and you should be very proud of all your work. I am think you have the touch, so run with it.

    Happy TT.


    Barbara

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  18. Wow, what a great table you've set! And you are definitely not a C+ in sewing. I love the burlap tablecloth you made. Will you make me one? LOL! The flowers are all so lush and gorgeous too. I'm sure Joni will love this!

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  19. Fabulous!

    The table setting is lovely, but that fuschia and creeping jenny (?) in the pot is amazing!

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  20. Well, You have done it! Oooh I really like this one! Espescially the chairs so French... the touch of pink and the table cloth is so chic / casual. Moi .... amore!
    Au revoir!
    Leslie

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  21. Artie, you are the master! You will be enjoying that beautiful table for the whole summer! Love the blue and white touches. Also, catching my eye is that huge begonia!!

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  22. Beautiful! It doesn't get much prettier than that skirted table.
    ~Michelle

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  23. You nailed it Artie! Absolute perfection!

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  24. It looks beautiful & is so Joni!!! Great job!!! (Awesome sewing too!!)
    best,
    lauren

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  25. Your burlap tablecloth is a great design element in the garden. I am impressed with your sewing ability--using the elastic is innovative too. I love the seats of the puffy chairs. You gave us so many links today--thanks for that. The peonies are beautiful but that huge pot in the background is gorgeous! Looks like you have a green thumb as well as nimble sewing fingers! Thanks for sharing today.

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  26. Oh this is just toooo wonderful!!!
    Another amazing tablescape by Artie!!! I know you were inspired by Joni...but it still has your masterful touch all over it!!!

    I would love to have this set-up in my yard...so gorgeous!!!

    I have just recently become a fan of blue and white...I asked Joni for resources...do you have any favorites for your blue and white? I love all the pieces you used with this tablescape!!!

    I am so thrilled you stopped by earlier and that you liked the flags...you gotta love that gorgeous Lone Star beauty!!!

    I hope you have a fantastic day!!!
    XOXO
    Cathy

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  27. Artie, this is wonderful!!! I'm a huge Joni fan, and all your little "joni" touches brought a smile to my face. LOVE those beautiful chargers, and all your blue and white, especially when set against that wonderful burlap skirted table. Oh, and did I mention that I covet your bamboo flatware? ;)

    A+, definitely!

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  28. Simply stunning. I am constantly amazed at how elegant burlap can be. Such a pretty garden setting and I love the accessories and all the crystal. Just so lovely. Hugs, Marty

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  29. Hi Artie,
    I really enjoy visiting your blog and seeing all the time and effort you put into making everything so special. The chairs look so comfy, I just want to sink down into that big cushion and gaze about all the wonderfulness of your outdoor entertaining area.

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  30. Love the burlap and the silverware. Gorgeous table!

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  31. Oh, Dear Artieness! How lovely! I know will be so pleased on all you've done! This tablesetting in the garden looks like Joni! What a great job you did on slipcovering the chairs. I'm going to try this! Now in the picture, this fabric doesn't even look like burlap, but it's so elegant. Needless to say the blue and white just pop! The gorgeous folwers! Oh, I adore those crystal chargers. Where in the world did you find them? The white china and the stemware - I have the pattern too!
    Oh, how wonderful!
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia ;)

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  32. Goodness gracious, Artie...this is just STUNNING. Your chairs...oh, my..they look fabulous...Frenchie Fabulous, by the way. The burlap skirted table is just perfect..you did an amazing job on the skirt..I am NOT a sewer and wouldn't know where to begin on this. You have inspired my next tablescape...now I am all excited to do it for next time.
    Just beautiful, my young man!!
    xo bj

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  33. Goodness gracious, Artie...this is just STUNNING. Your chairs...oh, my..they look fabulous...Frenchie Fabulous, by the way. The burlap skirted table is just perfect..you did an amazing job on the skirt..I am NOT a sewer and wouldn't know where to begin on this. You have inspired my next tablescape...now I am all excited to do it for next time.
    Just beautiful, my young man!!
    xo bj

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  34. Mary @Boogieboard CottageJune 11, 2009 at 12:10 PM

    I really like this garden tablescape, very elegant, yet comfortable! Great job! :O)

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  35. So pretty, Artie! Good work!

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  36. Oh Artie, What a spectacular tribute! I hope it didn't go for naught and Scott prepared a wonderful meal as eloquent as the setting....Robyn

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  37. Joni is a true gem!! Beautiful table and work, Artie!!!

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  38. Your effort paid off! A beautiful tablescape. Again! Love the garden setting, too. So perfect. ~~Rhonda

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  39. Thanks for visiting me, and leaving such sweet message! It made my day!

    your outdoor setting is so charming!
    The crystal and flowers are very lovely too!

    Thanks for sharing!
    Sherri:)

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  40. Artie, It's simply gorgeous! I'm quite impressed by your creativity and sewing skills! Now I have to go visit Joni! ☺♥☺ Diane

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  41. Hi Artie,
    Lovely tablescape and I think Joni is a doll too! I am impressed with your sewing abilities, BRAVO! These chair covers turned out beautifully. Cathy

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  42. Hey Artie!

    You've captured Joni's style perfectly! I love the burlap tablecloth, white slipcovers,the peonies,the crystal chargers with the oh so french detailing. This is a wonderful tribute to Ms. Joni. I love how you add the blue and white vases on the green. Very artistic! That's something only a creative eye would know to do. Great job. Thanks for the inspiration.

    Julio

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  43. Ah, totally gorgeous, Artie. You can "french me up" any ol' time you like.

    Take that any way you like.

    Justine :o )

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  44. Hi Artie,
    You get an A + + + + + + + + +
    on everything. You are so inspiring the way you totally commit yourself to your projects. Your tablescape is just perfection and I so enjoyed reading your post. I always enjoy visiting (in fact I guess you can say I look forward to it.) Have a great day.
    ~Maryrose~

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  45. PS Artie, love your profile picture.

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  46. Hi There,
    I found your blog from Susan (between naps)and I'm glad I clicked your blog. I enjoyed everything I saw here and will be back.
    Your tablescape entry is very clever!

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  47. Artie,
    Your tablescape this week is magazine worthy. I love everything about it and I'm sure she will be flattered by what you have put together in her honor. She's amazing, isn't she? Love your work!! Can't wait to see more!

    Blessings,
    Linda

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  48. I'm sure Joni is so honored! She's from my neck of the woods. Well, I'm in East Texas anyway. You did a great job. I love her courtyard, and you captured her well!
    Brenda

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  49. Artie,
    I am very impressed with your sewing! You did a fabulous job creating a "Joni". Well done!

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  50. Im bringing over white sangria, roasted veggie orzo salad & cherry clafoutis for dessert. I'll be there around noon so we can drink & be silly all afternoon. Please seat me across from that exquisite pot of fuchsia & company. That lush plush planter needs a post of its own.

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  51. Hey Artie... Thanks for coming by... And yes that is a lot of banana info... So busy with my daughter’s wedding I had nothing so thought that would be something interesting... But keep coming back to visit... Soon we will be leaving for our BIG adventure in Tassie and I'll have a lot of interesting things to post.

    LOVE your tablescape... So romantic and look at those cushions... makes you just want to sit on them and stay for a very long, long while... Just beautiful...

    (((HUGS)))
    Donna

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  52. Beautiful job, Artie. You are such a talent. Love the blue and white, and the peonies are my favorite.
    Don't you just love burlap. When I was trying to think of a name for my blog I wanted to use burlap in the title, but "Velvet and Burlap" didn't quite sound right! Ha!

    Have a wonderful weekend, Artie.

    xo
    Brooke

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  53. Breathtaking! The gorgeous crystal chargers with a Fleur De lis detail. definably screams French! I could easily picture myself in this setting sipping on a little apéritif.

    Sweet wishes,
    Sara

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  54. Very nice, I love the overstuffed cushions. They are very inviting. Great job!

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  55. I'm back from the no internet void and have u-verse with the fastest internet they could give me - I am overjoyed that I can now open your page and INSTANTLY all your gorgeous pictures are loaded! It was worth the trouble.

    Artie, this is unbelievably gorgeous and such a sweet and thoughtful tribute to Joni. You have the most amazing mind and your talent is beyond the pale. The fact that you not only staged it, you MADE most of it - and did the gardening - you are a superstar and are going to go very, very far.
    LOVE this.
    xo Isa

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  56. First of all thank you for stopping by. I always enjoy meeting new blogger friends. I really enjoyed reading and viewing your pictures. I'll be back for sure! Your tablescape for two is awesome. I love your creative use of the burlap fabric for the table and the way it looks against the white slipcovers. Your garden setting is perfect. Thanks for sharing! Huggy Hugs!

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  57. I'm a joni fan, too. What a very nice -- and spot-on -- tribute to a talented and vibrant lady! cheers, -s

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  58. I'm a joni fan, too. What a very nice -- and spot-on -- tribute to a talented and vibrant lady! cheers, -s

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  59. Artie, there will be NO living with her now!
    Seriously, your tribute was perfect. how FRONCH does that skirted table look. That will make Decorno's head explode.

    Love that your picked up all her faves. You are extremely generous and talented. I love that scalloped fence too! (and those chargers would go with all my Grandmother's American Brilliant Cut Glass. Great work!

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  60. Having recently done a few tablescapes ourselves for a photo shoot here in Cali I am absolutely inspired by your creation using burlap Artie! Thank you so much for a wonderful picture of inspiration, off to find some burlap!
    julia

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  61. It's all gorgeous! I'm really eyeing that huge urn with the beautiful plant behind the table though!

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