Dovecote

One of my favorite stops while in Conn. is the fabulous store Dovecote.

It's located in Westport, a chic town on the New York Sound. The store itself is located at the end of Main Street in a 120 year old building that was once the Westport Opera House. Today Dovecote is nestled in between Tiffany's and a high end linen's shop. Nothing like diamonds, antique French chandeliers and sumptuous linens to cap off a day of shopping.

Back to the store, my first impression was Mecox Gardens meets Kelly Wearstler.
The shops founder, Sarah Kaplan loves mixing different styles- French Country, Modern, Hollywood Regency, Preppy, and more. And its no wonder the store is so tasteful, Sarah was a buyer at Neiman Marcus & Barney's New York before diving into the boutique world.

Sarah says she is "obsessed with mirrors, chairs and chandeliers" and these truly are the shining stars of the shop. I have never seen so many gorgeous antique French crystal chandeliers hanging in one space... and all sizes too, some even in pairs.






One of my favorites from this last trip was a pair of vintage French leather club chairs, all crackly and cozy similar to these below.




She also has some fabulous taupe linen chairs for those more Axel-minded than KWID.




Several of these antique armoire beauties are in the store.




Besides this very unique antique secretary, the chandelier with the turquoise drops is stunning. I bought a similar vase as a Christmas present while there.



As you may have noticed by now, this store is an animal print lovers dream. Many of the upholstered items are in various prints, though for a more subtle gesture Dovecote also has some gorgeous and plush throw pillows.






Since I was there on Christmas Eve day, my focus was more on the smaller gift items. It was very hard to choose between the wonderful design and art books, the pretty glass vases, the rock crystal votives, and the candy-colored pashminas. Not to mention the small leather goods from Baekgaard or the Mrs. John L. Strong stationary.

Baekgaard Checkbook Cover


As if this designers utopia was not enough, Dovecote has even more gems. Literally. A whole section of the shop is designated to gorgeous jewelry that to my delighted surprise ranged from $ to $$$.

So are you ready to purchase that plane ticket and head to 56 Post Road East yet???

Here are some of Dovecote's design basics:

Ms. Kaplan has obviously put her good tips to work in her own home...

Country Home March 2004

Three of my favorite Dovecote elements around a cozy fire: vintage leather club chair, French Bergere chair, large leopard print throw pillows...

Connecticut Cottages and Gardens November 2005

A similar fireplace in the house, though a totally different look. The gilt mirror is a great juxtaposition to the Mies van der Rohe daybed (a vintage I assume).

Connecticut Cottages and Gardens November 2005

The Dining Room is very elegant... could it be the crystal chandelier or the hint of pink silk curtains or the elegant settee?!?

Country Home March 2004

I love when people bring their decorating into the Kitchen, as Sarah has here with another chandelier, small artworks on the walls, and open shelves and cabinets to display cookbooks and china. Notice how the white & silver modern barstools blend perfectly into the mix of the room.

Connecticut Cottages and Gardens March 2005

Country Home March 2004

The Kaplan's Master Bedroom. So practical to have a darker colored bedspread to accommodate dogs. Something I myself should especially take to heart; its a never-ending battle with paw prints on my white bedspread & duvet!!!

I love the addition of the printed throw pillows (Bennison I believe, which is carried through Dovecote) and the striped silk curtains.

Country Home March 2004

Just as in the Kitchen, the Bathroom is given special treatment with a salvaged claw-foot tub and framed Fred Stein photographs. The orchid brings the perfect splash of refreshment and color to the room.

Country Home March 2004

*All images from www.dovecote-westport.com.*