Today we caught a behind the scenes glimpse of the final preparations for this years Los Angeles Antiques Show.  It was interesting to witness the hanging of paintings, the un-crating of chandeliers and the careful spotlighting of these world class dealers' well curated treasures.  What was surprising was the sense of calm just a day before the big reveal.  A few glitches, including the now famous Icelandic volcanic ash, disturbed some of the best laid plans, but the show must go on.  Hammers and ladders abound, here is the Balustrade & Bitters' exclusive sneak peak. 

Tonight we will attend the star studded preview gala to benefit PS Arts.  Stay tuned for more coverage.

This event is a must for anyone interested in the design and arts fields, click here for more information.

*all photographs by Coleen Rider

This stunning room is brought to you by Bernard Steinitz Antiques of Paris.  The sheer opulent beauty of this space cannot be overstated.  

Voila of Los Angeles - Art for the Modern Eye

Downtown is featuring furniture designers from Mexico City - Robert and Milo Block and Arturo Pani.  Glossy floors set of the rich woods and gilt detailing of these gorgeous designer pieces.

Above, at Carlton Hobbs, one of  a pair of rare console tables from the Plazzo Colonna, c. 1700's.  Italian painting in Grisailles  depicting Hercules.

A close-up of the Lumachella console top.  Carlton Hobbs explained this is comprised of marine fossils from the ocean bed.

Daniel Stein Antiques - 18th and 19th c. English and Continental, classic and refined

We were charmed by the glistening copper molds at Eve Stone Antiques

Dragonette brought the Hollywood glamour of William Haines

Laurent Rebuffel of Habite sets up a loft like space and mixes industrial, antique and modern

Great Canes of London is showing just that!

Reform Gallery's super chic all white space

We fell for Inner Gardens' magical cast iron garden markers

Foster Gwin successfully mixes modern art with Italian antiques

Rare belt hooks worn by Chinese officials from Robyn Buntin of Honolulu

"RUN!"

"If you can't run, make sure you start your Christmas shopping in June."

David Serrano, Downtown

*photograph by Coleen Rider

The first in our series of Quick Holiday Tips, Robert Willson tells us what to do when the wax starts to fly!

"To remove candle wax from your winter scarf, place it in the freezer.  Once frozen it peels right off."

Robert Willson, Downtown

*photograph by Coleen Rider