Visiting the Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, Italy, over the summer was a defining moment for me. My travel companion and I set out in search of excellence in architecture and decided to visit a number of Palladian structures. I have a love of Classicism, so naturally I’ve long admired the work of Andrea Palladio. Seeing this lone surviving Renaissance theater, with its impressive cavea, or auditorium, with its rectangular proscenium stage and steep rows of curved stadium-style seating, left me awe struck. Palladio’s impact on Western architecture and art is tremendous. And though he was working in the 16th century, his ideas and forms transcend time and are just as inspiring and appropriate now.

It is in this context that I have been giving a lot of thought to quality and the origin of the objects we surround ourselves with. I have collected antiques for years and have always had a deep appreciation for pieces with an interesting genesis or back-story. This month, I have included an essay about this passion and my intentions with the Collections here. You will also find tips for mixing fresh floral elements with faux pieces to create beautiful and long-lasting arrangements.

And of course Pumpkin season is in full swing, so I want to share with you one of my favorite fall recipes and show you how I’ve given jack-o’-lanterns a new look. The Halloween story is a full chapter excerpt from my new book A Passion for Parties. I hope you enjoy it and feel inspired.

Finally, as many of you know, I am a great dog lover and always have a menagerie of enchanting creatures that brighten my life and fill the halls of Weatherstone with the joyous sounds of life. It gives me a heavy heart to report that I lost Ruffie, my dear friend and favorite dog, this past month. My life and Weatherstone won’t be the same without him.

If you have a special pet, please take a moment now to give him or her an extra scratch behind the ears or toss of the ball in honor of Ruffie and all of the wonderful companions who have changed our lives for the better.

Best wishes for a beautiful autumn season.

TOP: Designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni and built in the late 18th century, the Vittorio Emanuele Galleria is today still Milan’s largest and most popular meeting spot. Teeming with life and creativity, it is so inspiring to walk through the many shops, cafes, bookstores and artisan stalls of the arcade.
MIDDLE: The beacon of San Giorgio island off of Venice, Palladio’s San Giorgio Maggiore has a brilliant white façade that faces across the basin of San Marco to the great piazza.
BOTTOM: Villa Rotunda is a classic example of Andrea Palladio’s architecture. The central dome, one of his most famous and imitated motifs, was itself inspired by the Pantheon of ancient Rome.