CAA asked us to design a room inspired by a mid-century cultural icon. After just minutes of deliberation, we selected the Duke and Duchess of Windsor - immensely popular, stylish and relevant to Florida during the 1940's and beyond.
The Duchess of Windsor was an American socialite, who married, as her third husband, Prince Edward, formerly King Edward VIII of the British Empire.
The Duke and Duchess of Windsor traveled to Florida to visit friends and enjoyed a good Polo match. What most people don’t know is that Wallis met first husband Navy pilot Earl Winfield Spencer while visiting her cousin in Pensacola.In December 1936, King Edward VIII renounced the throne to "marry the woman I love.” His wife soon became one of the century's most famous women.
The duchess became known as an elegant hostess and one of the world’s best-dressed women. Beginning in the 1940’s, the couple spent the next few decades traveling extensively to attend social events around the world.
Although they were sometimes criticized for their lavish lifestyle, their romance is regarded as one of history’s greatest love stories. "You have no idea how hard it is to live out a great romance,” Wallis said.
Some quick research uncovered an iconic photo (above) of the Duke and Duchess visiting Florida in 1941. The combination of the peacock blue and coral together is very fresh and current. They shaped the Palm Beach look with their bold choices of color, and their clean line of dress is still relevant today.
This photo became a jumping off point for our design. We can't reveal too much at this point, but here is an image of the Schumacher fabric we are using for the window treatments.
The CAA Designer Showhouse for the Arts is open May 29 - July 4, Wednesdays - Sundays, from noon to 5:00 pm.
For more information, visit the CAA's website.
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Very excited to be a part of putting it all together this weekend!
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