When listing her style icons, boutique owner Christine Bell is quick to mention decorator Dorothy Draper. Bell says, “This was a woman who never settled for ordinary…those large scale theatrical white plaster sconces and wall appliqués are fearless!.” A similar passion for drama and graphic contrasts guides Bell’s choices for her Palm Beach shop, whether she is reinventing a vintage piece or selecting something new.
Above, Bell transformed a pair of mid-century Miami library chairs with Kelly Wearstler’s “Imperial Trellis” fabric. “These were dreary when I found them — musty and dusty in shiny brown brushed velvet — but I thought they were such unusual chairs.” See, everything in Palm Beach isn’t painted white. (Bell did have the wood lightly refinished.)
A Palm Beach address can be intimidating, but a surprising array of prices can be found at C. Bell. This set of four refurbished vintage chairs is priced at $1000. Again, Christine’s choice of scarlet upholstery mixed with crisp white painted frames is typical of her bold yet tailored style.
Above, Christine says this chair is an example of ignoring the “nasty fabric and finish” and focusing instead on elegant lines with mid-century origins. Here she chose a high-end raspberry linen. “The legs have been lacquered white for stunning contrast,” she adds.
Apart from furniture, C. Bell is also the place for coveted out-of-print books and unusual finds like this early 20th-century Chinese robe, above.
Above, the work of Christine’s other style icon, Albert Hadley, is shown on the left. A basically neutral scheme with one big hit of strong yellow. In her shop, Christine often infuses a black-and-white vignette with apple-green.
“Albert Hadley, Alberto Pinto and Dorothy Draper are the designers that I constantly seem to go back to for inspiration. Mr Hadley, a true gentleman, is always well-edited and elegant. And never dull..” She loves Hadley’s signature mix of zebra rugs, classical forms and lucite. For Christine, Alberto Pinto’s look is luscious and opulent.
Here’s Christine’s advice for the young single looking to invest in some key pieces that will stand the test of time:
“There is nothing more versatile than the ottoman/side table. These are great with a tray for cocktails or coffee, at the end of a bed, or for a dressing area..and always useful for extra seating. The X-stools are timeless and elegant. The white faux bamboo are classics. I can’t find enough of these.”
She also wanted to share her “Ultimate Side Table/Dresser” from the CBELL Collection. It’s available in a white lacquer finish or custom color with classic carved drawers and side detail. “This piece is savvy and chic forever. The perfect transitional style that enhances a modern or traditional space. Everyone must have a little dresser.”
