Seductive Interiors
A London boutique owner, purveyor of  rude lampshades,  and celebrity interior decorator, Madame Sera brings her boudoir chic to a larger audience. Stating unequivocally that the  essence of my work is simple—it's a heady mix of romanticism, passion and playfulness,  she uses an eclectic and baroque mix of faux leopard skin satin pillows, Victorian piano shawls, pompoms, pampas grasses, feathers and palms, antiques, and bohemian furnishings. With a taste for the exotic and soft lighting, she appoints rooms with signature Fortuny chandeliers, Rajasthan pierced screens, vintage textiles from the Congo, a Balinese parasol, and Indian muslin. Lampshade linings have a peachy nude color, panels of ribbons of white raffia disguise a plasma TV screen, and an organza and lace dress fabric is used for window drapes. Generous with dispensing information, Madame Sera is equally lavish in her praise of others, notably Rachel Ashwell of Shabby Chic fame. Her style is very specific, with a bordello vibe, and she has a large following. She is clearly devoted to her mission of decorative seduction. (Oct.)