Fauxology: Studying the Visual Magic of Faux Finishing and Interior Design (brought to you by Garay Artisans)

Well, it has been a busy past few weeks.  In fact, I’ve been meaning to post these pics of Orlando’s Street of Dreams 2008 since our family and friends attended it not this past weekend but last weekend.  It was a fantastic afternoon — we toured each home at a nice pace and then we all headed over to Kata for fantastic sushi and Thai food. 

Street of Dreams is an annual tour of grande homes that draws about 45,000 people.  This year, three homes were showcased: Chateau D’Usse, Triana and Chica Margarita.  I will be posting pics of each home in its own little entry so that each gets a chance to shine on the Fauxology blog.  First up: Chateau d’Usse.  Chateau d’Usse is estimated to be worth about 9.25 million dollars (furnished).  I’m not sure if it was inspired by France’s Chateau d’Usse but this one was built by Hillcrest Homes and designed by CEC Interiors.  Chateau d’Usse was a favorite among many of our group.

Stepping into the home…breathtaking, no?

Love some of the cabinetry touches — different finishes, unusual shapes for doors…

A room with Venetian Plaster stripes

A girl’s room (love the corner ceiling accents) and a boy’s room (love how the clouds are taken from the walls unto the ceiling…

Two of my favorite areas: The Powder Bath with its unusual textured finish and the Guest Room with the painted cornice boards on the window.

Last but not least…the Pool!  It has a lazy river, a secret grotto, a fire pit, waterfalls, etc., etc….but my favorite area?  That hammock on the right — that’s where I’ll be with a fancy pina colada and the latest & greatest book on hand to read…or to shield my eyes from the sun while I’m napping, take your pick. 

This year the design of all the homes seemed to lean towards the more lighthearted and whimsical side of elegance.  This home was no exception, with fun touches to be found throughout – definitely a home to relax and have fun in but still be magnificent enough to show off to Jones’ next door.  If you’d like to see the homes in person, you need to hurry!  The last tour day is June 22nd…

Additional pics supplied by Street of Dreams.