Home Design with Kevin Sharkey

Yesterday I showed you the estate's gardens. Today, we are going inside to take a look at Mrs. Robinson's 1911 mansion and its incredible interiors. While many historians would label the interiors 'traditional design,' the work is not dated nor does it feel dowdy. Just the opposite. There are details, such as plasterwork and flooring, that feel modern and of-the-moment.

The main residence was built by Virginia's father, noted architect Nathaniel Dryden, in a modified Beaux-Arts style. It is filled with collections from the couples’ trips around the world. The pool pavilion, built in 1924 by William Richards, has 18^th century Italian influences that really 'wowed' me and gave me pause. I was so inspired by the colors and design choices (from fabric to lighting) that I couldn’t help but jot down ideas in my notebook every few seconds.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. And, if you are ever in Beverly Hills, make an appointment to see the estate. See if you can get Timothy Lindsay to give you the tour. He is just marvelous.

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1 I feel transported in this loggia and adore the pink checkered terrazzo floor.

2 I love how this Indian-inspired light fixture mixes with the ceiling fixture and painting.

3 Such an unusual and appealing lampshade.

4 The plaster work on the ceiling is as beautiful as one of MS Weddings' cake.

5 This sideboard in the dining area combines my two loves: silver and mirrors.

6 This view of the sun porch is such a little girls' fantasy.

7 I was so surprised when these mirror-covered doors opened to reveal...

8 The murphy bed of liquor cabinets.

9 A detail of Mrs. Robinson's vanity. That's me in the reflection.

10 This bedroom nook captures the Hollywood design era of Mrs. Robinson but does not look dated.

11 Receipts for purchases of couture from the house of Paul Poiret.

12 The kitchen doors have Swiss dot curtains. There are no words to describe how much I love these.

13 Love this monogram style.