Home Design with Kevin Sharkey

I've been going to a lot of birthdays lately and it makes me think about the company I keep. I am a Sagittarius and the vast majority of my friends are, also. We're supposed to be optimistic, honest, and intellectual -- and we definitely have a love of travel.

Martha, on the other hand, is a Leo. Which makes perfect sense: the Leo is creative, enthusiastic, and broad-minded. I think that's why we compliment each other so well: Martha is a big-picture genius and I'm analytical and detail-oriented.

Once I dug a little deeper, I found out that there's even more to the compatibility between Sagittariuses and Leos. They're known to instantly build a rapport and both like to live life to the fullest. The Leo is the lion or the leader, where the Saggitarius is the archer, who takes more time to figure out the best approach. They both are fire signs, which makes for boundless energy.

What traits of your horoscope do you identify with?

(Image: vintage constellation map from The Curators Prints).

From the second I picked up John Robshaw Prints, I knew I was in for a treat. The cover of the book is wrapped in a beautiful, bright printed fabric which perfectly represents what’s featured inside. John is known for his global influence, drawing especially from India and Thailand. He and co-author Elizabeth Garnsey thoroughly describe the production process of creating each textile, and illustrate each page with lush behind-the-scenes photography.

Images Courtesy of John Robshaw

I loved reading about John’s travels through Europe and Asia -- the stories made me want to pack a bag and run to the airport immediately. He has such an amazing eye for color and print, and this collection reminded me why I fell in love with his products years ago. Bonus: if you order from the John Robshaw’s website, your copy will be signed by the man himself!

When the new year rolls around, I like to clean up my shelves and drawers: out with old knick-knacks and clutter, and in with the new. One of the first things to go are charred, half-melted candles; it's so nice to start fresh with pretty packaging and clean scents.

My go-to candles are Vie Luxe. Owner Marjorie Gublemann has been profiled in plenty of magazines for her fabulous lifestyle -- including Elle Decor and Harper's Bazaar, which noted her one of New York's "Most Celebrated Hostesses," a fact that both Martha and I can attest to. Her company is a global fragrance empire sold in over 1500 of the world's most high end shops. Each candle is named and scented after dreamy vacation destinations such as Palm Beach, Sardinia, St. Barth's, and Buenos Aires. They're effortlessly chic and appeal to everyone. I highly recommend you get plenty of them; they are the perfect gift for any occasion -- or just to turn an ordinary day into an occasion.

(Photo via Saks Fifth Avenue)