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Travel

Vacation Destination: Costa Brava, Spain

It’s been in the mid-80’s in Los Angeles this week, the kids will be out of school soon, and heck, I need a vacation! Fabulous destinations always conjure up images of stylish settings and chic fashions that are the essence of what makes that location so special. With that in mind, On Madison is dreaming of faraway places and channeling design images that help us get away, at least in our imaginations!

Our first stop and suggestion: The beautiful seaside of Costa Brava, Spain. This inky blue Mediterranean inspires our Spanish vacation fantasies. Chic and a little edgy, we are so ready to hit the tapas bars and explore the coast (decked out in Balenciaga, of course).

Where to stay: The Praktik Rambla Hotel

What to wear: Roberto Cavalli sunglasses, Balenciaga thorn adorned heels, Balenciaga tote,

Get the look at home: Lorenzo Castillo giltwood mirror, BRABBU Mecca coffee table, Shell shaped armchairs

Renaissance Modern

I confess I am attracted to that seemingly disparate combination of baroque architecture juxtaposed against minimalist modern furnishings and artwork. Something about the almost religious grandeur of frescoed ceilings and walls paired with modernism is quite irresistible to me.

Case in point is the fabulous transformation of a 16th century church in Milan into a home base for the international architecture firm of Massimiliano Locatelli. The timelessness of the architecture mixes with equally timeless modern design to form a simpatico that defies the centuries of time in between.

I’m loving the way Locatelli has carved work spaces amid the vaulted coffers and pillers of the church.

Stark white walls and stone columns lend an almost monastic quality to a modern dining area where the staff convenes every day for lunch.

Made in the Shade

Well, its the end of March and it might as well be the middle of summer here in Los Angeles. It’s in the 90’s today in Pasadena and my thoughts are turning to tall, cool, summery drinks and sitting beneath the shade of an umbrella watching the world go by.

Umbrellas are undoubtedly useful, utilitarian objects, but you know how I feel about that. They can also be incredibly glamorous and conjure up all kinds of exotic fantasies about far away places and the outdoor lifestyle.

On Madison has assembled an assortment of umbrella styles that can take you on vacation without ever leaving home. Go ahead, relax, and cool off.

The ultimate Palm Springs 70’s vibe and umbrella, taken by iconic Slim Aarons