Fall has Fallen

Autumn has arrived in New York City, bringing crisp air, colorful leaves, and a little Halloween magic to the streets. After a long, warm summer, the city is embracing the changing of trees and temperatures with a few transformations of its own. As Halloween approaches, neighborhood stoops and brownstone facades become seasonal works of art, thanks to residents who adorn their front steps with festive displays of pumpkins, playful skeletons, mischievous ghosts, and all things fall. On a recent stroll through the Upper West Side, we came across a delightful mix of autumnal arrangements and Halloween decorations that made the neighborhood feel like a scene from a seasonal postcard.

Among golden leaves scattered across the sidewalks, these decorated doorways and neighborly displays remind us that some of the city's greatest charms are found not in its famous landmarks, but in the creativity of the people who call it home. In New York, fall isn't just a change in the weather, it's a season to be celebrated…one stoop at a time.

Fall Foliage

Hoping to enjoy the natural beauty of the season, we wandered through Central Park and caught the New York  foliage at its peak. The vibrant tapestry of yellows, reds, and greens reminded us how important it is to appreciate each season’s character while it lasts. As we moved along the park’s iconic pathways, we found ourselves pausing often to hear the gentle rustle of leaves and watch the late-afternoon sun filter through the branches. Our walk carried us past the historic fields and trees scattered throughout the park, set against the striking contrast of the city’s modern skyline. Even in a place as energetic as New York, moments like these create a sense of calm that feels like a gift. This quiet glimpse of the season encouraged us to slow down, look closely, and savor the peaceful shift from fall into winter.

Happy Halloween!

The spooky season has arrived, and as we prepare for a night of tricks and treats we’re excited to share some of the impressive Halloween decorations we’ve spotted this October. Our festive adventures took us from New York City to Miami, East Hampton, and Washington D.C., where we discovered everything from haunted stoops and glowing ghosts to intricately carved pumpkins that truly capture the Halloween spirit.

Across every neighborhood, with porches adorned with pumpkins, cobwebs, spectacular skeletal animatronics, and plenty of spooky surprises. It’s been a delight to see how communities have embraced the holiday with such enthusiasm and imagination.

Wishing everyone a safe and spectacular Halloween night filled with candy, costumes, and a few fun scares. We will see you in November when we return to our regularly scheduled program of public art!

Daunt Books Marylebone

With cold weather fast approaching (not to mention the COVID-19 social distancing protocols still in place), it will soon be perfect weather to curl up at home with a good book and cup of tea (or something stronger). But where to purchase something new to read? Daunt Books (in particular, the Marylebone location) is one of our favorite places in London for book shopping. Originally a travel books specialist, this Edwardian store features an incredible three-level back room with oak balconies, viridian-green walls, and a conservatory ceiling, and is a perfect place to find pretty much everything including guide books, maps, history, politics, travelogue, and fiction organized by country. Happy reading!

Kenwood House

Outside London on the edge of Hampstead Heath surrounded by beautiful gardens sits Kenwood House. Originally constructed in the 17th century, the house served as a residence for the Mansfield family through the 18th and early 20th centuries and is now open and free to the public to visit and enjoy. Kenwood House has stunning interiors and a world-class art collection, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Reynolds, Gainsborough, and Turner. Most importantly, the house served as a backdrop for a pivotal scene in Notting Hill. It’s also a good place to relax and enjoy the last few days of warm weather.