While searching my files for inspiring photos for holiday décor, I came across a Christmas issue of Traditional Home, or maybe Victoria Magazine (not sure which) titled “White Christmas”, designed by Tricia Foley.  I remember thinking (when I saved the feature) that the white in the room (walls above the wainscoting, flowers, candles and food) contrasting with the rich, dark wood  (paneling below the wainscoting, wood pieces of furniture) managed to provide all of the cozy, warm notes I thrive on, as well as the classic, simple, understated look white can provide.

The white walls above the paneling set a dramatic contrast.

Don't you just love the simplicity of candlelight, white linens and paper whites?

This isn't the original room I have from the magazine but it serves the purpose.

I decided to do some further research on Tricia Foley and was happy to see she has 3 blog sites as well as some inspiring projects that you can view on her website HERE.  I’ll be able to catch some additional inspiration from her with just the click of a mouse!

A fireplace in a dining room space is so cozy.

Tricia Foley’s bio on her site explains that…

“…Tricia Foley Design specializes in all aspects of home design. She’s known for her simple, classic style, her work includes retail consulting, branding, product development and packaging, creating advertising and catalog collateral, residential interior design, magazine editorial and book publishing”.

She has an amazing list of clients including Ralph Lauren Home, Waterworks, Pottery Barn, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s Home Stores, to name just a few.  She has several design/lifestyle books that have been published and I recently ordered one of her older titles, “White Christmas:  Decorating and Entertaining for the Holiday Season” published in 1997.

Her website explains she is currently restoring an 18th century farmhouse on Long Island and shares her time between there and New York City.

images via Tricia Foley – website

I ordered her book “White Christmas” on Amazon and received a gently used copy for $8!  {I love being able to find a bargain in design books, or any book title for that matter.}  Trisha Foley rooms are always fresh yet warm and welcoming.  I was impressed that the rooms featured in this particular book are so classic and that you would not know by looking at any of them the book was published in 1997!

I really must look into a canopy bed!

Nature is intricate to her designs and I believe that is what gives it such an inviting allure.

The pendant light, white cupboards and butcher block counter tops are simply beautiful.

Have you ever stumbled upon a house, room or ‘look’ that you admire only to discover that it’s a designer that you’ve read about before…you begin to recognize their style.  Am I a designer groupie?  Maybe!