Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Surprised

So, last night was the first reveal of the Oval Office that was redecorated by famed interior designer Michael S. Smith. I have always admired Michael Smith for his warm, layered yet understated rooms. He has created a name for himself by creating homes that feel lived in and warm but not decorated straight from the showroom. I couldn't wait to see what he did for the Obamas.

Here's the oval office before the redecoration.


And after...








I have to same I'm underwhelmed. I'm the first to admit that I love a neutral palette. I've never been one to turn away a creamy caramel or taupe as the basis for the large pieces of furniture. But, I'm so surprised that there isn't any pop of color or his signature layered fabrics. Did the Obama's worry that the oval office would look too ethnic and therefore pulled Michael back? This room is crying for some pillows at the very least to infuse some personality. Or even some more texture. The start of the room is there but it just doesn't look finished.
I want this room to show some optimism and some fun. Right now it looks like the Bush's are still in the white house. Not the Obamas with their love of fashion (okay Michelle's love of fashion - Barack not so much), culture and the arts. This room is just too uptight for this young family.
Michael, please tell me you aren't finished... I want to see some of your fabulous signature Indian prints and florals.

4 comments:

Denise said...

Perhaps this is exactly what Mr. Obama wanted. The client is the only person Michael Smith needs to please.

Trove Interiors said...

So true. The client is the only person that needs to like the end result. I was just surprised that it didn't reflect either Michael Smiths style or my "perception" of the Obamas style. It's still beautiful, just not what I expected.

jennie said...

I dont care for it either.. very blah blah blah...agree with your thoughts Trove.. I expected something more from the Obama family too.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for your covering of the oval office redo. I personally did not expect more from the Obama family I think the "perception" that they have great style is just that. It is so blah no elegance Michael Smith style is much better than this.

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