Spring in NY

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaQjHmdUGgS5bZZqgScCzo2gugLzYwOpwLEn_bBdYQabD13u2RLVjhSsgD2PHy_mhIuc3UPqNslQ-PsAUd7s3uL5fhU9dsDJqhP3XBJTKHWeAjV0481IjAFnZmzGrL7nLjoEX1oPN_jA/s1600/Central+Park+pond.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603843378347598402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaQjHmdUGgS5bZZqgScCzo2gugLzYwOpwLEn_bBdYQabD13u2RLVjhSsgD2PHy_mhIuc3UPqNslQ-PsAUd7s3uL5fhU9dsDJqhP3XBJTKHWeAjV0481IjAFnZmzGrL7nLjoEX1oPN_jA/s400/Central+Park+pond.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Oddly enough, one of my favorite things about New York is the presence of nature in the city.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisC36Rv9EmME8cLWtIqcGoA2JSSYvAHUrmJWv3gbRdJ5Tf3jEOLd1NqY7n2cr7KApcYpK9yA5RGx6p7b5zO-FhYNfcH_xtT0BwD-S-DZr_xlB1aAypw1IgmQa4iy3z6E9n7OqCQGOUbcs/s1600/Central+park.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603843373093848994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisC36Rv9EmME8cLWtIqcGoA2JSSYvAHUrmJWv3gbRdJ5Tf3jEOLd1NqY7n2cr7KApcYpK9yA5RGx6p7b5zO-FhYNfcH_xtT0BwD-S-DZr_xlB1aAypw1IgmQa4iy3z6E9n7OqCQGOUbcs/s400/Central+park.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 294px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Central Park is so much more majestic for its city setting and natural / city contrasts.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWFqbixwpPV8qzpbRm1hyphenhyphenvEpulygjvNew8lAPjK50UKBwrTq2PE_jtP5jbSmtNdYPJrONE-W3WOFjn4cmENoChAQYPWXta8OUBQtJSec6H-0EJ-cloXJn2e2aMXOxyD-PHV_88-vPHZo/s1600/central+park+pathway.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603843370625705330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWFqbixwpPV8qzpbRm1hyphenhyphenvEpulygjvNew8lAPjK50UKBwrTq2PE_jtP5jbSmtNdYPJrONE-W3WOFjn4cmENoChAQYPWXta8OUBQtJSec6H-0EJ-cloXJn2e2aMXOxyD-PHV_88-vPHZo/s400/central+park+pathway.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 302px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> While in New York last weekend, <a href="http://www.habituallychic.blogspot.com/">Habitually Chic </a>and I enjoyed the fine spring weather and spent the afternoon wandering around this paradise with ice cream cones. Maybe a little too long, I'm still suffering from my peeley sunburn!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jWBrQ6RTIHNL7D9ldCf8d-f6oEtjnAj9LwEOuUzDGvxUu8n0a5a3jjvpPN2eXDMYI34zIIFs8vBJwiNduqSTynYo-sX73yDl7xWR0615hLhrjB5K03NjA3FPG5HScpcw1Rtqm0N7LIs/s1600/park+avenue+tulips.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603843044845379362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jWBrQ6RTIHNL7D9ldCf8d-f6oEtjnAj9LwEOuUzDGvxUu8n0a5a3jjvpPN2eXDMYI34zIIFs8vBJwiNduqSTynYo-sX73yDl7xWR0615hLhrjB5K03NjA3FPG5HScpcw1Rtqm0N7LIs/s400/park+avenue+tulips.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Another piece of nature lies on the medians of Park Avenue. The pink metal rose sculptures by Will Ryman are surrounded by spring tulips for a short time every year.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHcYFNCoGw3hnEwZXhKVJOTjLFJ9iHhBisu33PdR-d4G-fs-pqlZlINyotbBsNqvYnUUpI_km8o1Oh_ufJzj5TKAVMrJyZKrisx3pxb8MefTX5J2k3a2Q_52zAlAsgx2HkcA_FgdEC5E/s1600/rose+sculpture.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603843042385458610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHcYFNCoGw3hnEwZXhKVJOTjLFJ9iHhBisu33PdR-d4G-fs-pqlZlINyotbBsNqvYnUUpI_km8o1Oh_ufJzj5TKAVMrJyZKrisx3pxb8MefTX5J2k3a2Q_52zAlAsgx2HkcA_FgdEC5E/s400/rose+sculpture.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 314px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> A city of contrasts: the man-made and the natural working in harmony. Enjoy your weekend!</div></div></div></div>

Spring in NY

Oddly enough, one of my favorite things about New York is the presence of nature in the city. Central Park is so much more majestic for it...

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Allegheny Cemetery

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklypxs8hp0Z1TGKUOH-1plvrRNy4HkcnCpnx1TUWMRL1iu7-SSveIVab2sNwOfBPUvaE-rXiRKm5Dhjv6waHRcXWGzwYl8mDM7u97g-PwPQhaPz9mngoF8bCZQ6MGkdjily7V3zWyVKs/s1600/castle.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599568495332618130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklypxs8hp0Z1TGKUOH-1plvrRNy4HkcnCpnx1TUWMRL1iu7-SSveIVab2sNwOfBPUvaE-rXiRKm5Dhjv6waHRcXWGzwYl8mDM7u97g-PwPQhaPz9mngoF8bCZQ6MGkdjily7V3zWyVKs/s400/castle.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 228px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> Yes, I know this post may be better suited to Halloween than a post-Easter followup, but what can I say, I love old cemeteries! Nestled into the heart of the city of Pittsburgh is the historic 300 acre <a href="http://www.alleghenycemetery.com/">Allegheny Cemetery</a>, originally started in 1845.<br /><br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599568481491344338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnApIpZfAwaEWCGFNV1FOjUj9fu18IPjLyuh_6niVgkeQsoW9vxTgUAAbYMUFd2LJToAHWJpfuSquhGP9fhAO_Q9FhMZivICz3STb5Grv_RXTN1HaV-1kKCZLo61IemS9rjDQSCdMYIZs/s400/neoclassical.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />At first glance, the cemetery appears to be more of a park than a resting place for loved ones. In fact, even on the gloomy, rainy day I was there (I call it Pittsburgh weather) the grounds were filled with joggers, dog walkers and people enjoying the warm spring weather.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599568476615145746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNaNIAEFUTOEyhL552lfzZt5xRNzLdenjaCGx5S8668UJ3C0CNifPVBoroP40c5T2yDoIy2wuI4-mEdrIAV4zVco7fUTP8rZaGpwQRJLWZ8wnxk88-S2OOTV10lRA79Qzf1HQsr-vC-Xc/s400/copper+door.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 272px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /> <br /><div>The park is a veritable architectural history lesson, featuring buildings and mausoleums in many different styles. The Butler street entrance, seen in the top photo, originally dates to 1870 with later additions, such as the odd Mansard roof.<br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmgjzeXyQTMY3DCYVwVDe5NB0CpUkEHRBRsspcxXINMdHG_4HYM__UyXx-asNUGzWTDwDP3XU4hRxptXsDhf7Rp07wmt-Tm7XrtOPjBIX81PTnRlKGdDsgJojAJQox0MpScZrj07zPfw/s1600/mausoleum.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599568473274081522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmgjzeXyQTMY3DCYVwVDe5NB0CpUkEHRBRsspcxXINMdHG_4HYM__UyXx-asNUGzWTDwDP3XU4hRxptXsDhf7Rp07wmt-Tm7XrtOPjBIX81PTnRlKGdDsgJojAJQox0MpScZrj07zPfw/s400/mausoleum.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>This Neoclassical mausoleum seen above really caught my eye - so lovely! The verdigiris bronze doors really are show-stoppers. Unfortunately, the rear stained glass had been damaged and bricked over. However, if you peer through the glass in the door you can still see remnants.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599568484719928834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qGbE5R-KXYeN00GejtqzMnw-1nRdaPi4mTo7sYkhGQOx_tVpIEFzvnNCfOanc3cnbMLAyDmFMPeJDJJytptuEJ5wSQTMvvuJIC6TLMdXEY-o77nrwMXF-irKMWJ-uprwgS_Ub_TZxVk/s400/Egyptian+revival.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />This Egyptian Revival mausoleum was interesting: I suspect the family buried there was very very stylish.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OIKw5QjM-hYOdDr61mLOMx6LLwQYMoN4IHrw73NQyVPpNA8RAM-MNwmWPTjw0_DbeleT-HxQ3lcumG1ECxXAyDYVRLh4nUD8KH0zWy6o3xSbkzanOfe8kvw-x1SIRuYarHFo4tPzyj0/s1600/greek+doric.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599567927225418226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OIKw5QjM-hYOdDr61mLOMx6LLwQYMoN4IHrw73NQyVPpNA8RAM-MNwmWPTjw0_DbeleT-HxQ3lcumG1ECxXAyDYVRLh4nUD8KH0zWy6o3xSbkzanOfe8kvw-x1SIRuYarHFo4tPzyj0/s400/greek+doric.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>The numerous little Greek temples with Doric columns reminded me of a folly in an English Garden. While taking tea in a mausoleum might not sound so great (or be your 'cup of tea', har har) - there is very little difference between a European garden folly and these mausoleums!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZfeiEnTRaY7ESwLJh97lz8p6d0Vh5Vb8EvAlC5F1_0x8-INzP7wXia3d-9RSmHeb8BZH6X1wWHH-OBr0evyeN2R65nTEv_kO8JU_q0TxNlEzcMFRyhFoh0Mo1ZVj-zzYBU8iGfdRGCU/s1600/small+doric.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599567916294510626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZfeiEnTRaY7ESwLJh97lz8p6d0Vh5Vb8EvAlC5F1_0x8-INzP7wXia3d-9RSmHeb8BZH6X1wWHH-OBr0evyeN2R65nTEv_kO8JU_q0TxNlEzcMFRyhFoh0Mo1ZVj-zzYBU8iGfdRGCU/s400/small+doric.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> A single person mausoleum: compare it to a studio in the city I suppose.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_lKreTfCeN44ZKgXKmAyzts0atJUfeIiPszPSQ0ybDV-CeXJx4-XRRrZkfcWanza1EKChGCWunF2DwS3MzaOf2NdUkoZ6j8OoseTgJIT5RjyChLVDfJ1koYB0mnkKwoKpTRAaxEZaIYw/s1600/ogee+scroll.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599567911490284178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_lKreTfCeN44ZKgXKmAyzts0atJUfeIiPszPSQ0ybDV-CeXJx4-XRRrZkfcWanza1EKChGCWunF2DwS3MzaOf2NdUkoZ6j8OoseTgJIT5RjyChLVDfJ1koYB0mnkKwoKpTRAaxEZaIYw/s400/ogee+scroll.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> The interesting thing about the cemetary is that the sections are mixed. You'll find a tombstone from 1845 next to a mausoleum from 1915 next to a fresh grave. I find it so interesting to see how the styles changed. I thought these tombstones with the ogee scroll were very pretty. Is it morbid to choose your future tombstone: cemetery window shopping?<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ywhoo8eL5oQ8n8eAvu44qpysyb7I7INgl6qSMXVJCXzt8j4e3_S29RJcED7qkimPUfLHVXM7zOEsBzVV0ZyKU5YWCxOINOoIdbYZyRKNsU3ujrnFl_wFeH72XTlqIxJfXdbIMkbeu4w/s1600/richardsonian.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599567913776112722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ywhoo8eL5oQ8n8eAvu44qpysyb7I7INgl6qSMXVJCXzt8j4e3_S29RJcED7qkimPUfLHVXM7zOEsBzVV0ZyKU5YWCxOINOoIdbYZyRKNsU3ujrnFl_wFeH72XTlqIxJfXdbIMkbeu4w/s400/richardsonian.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> A cemetery this large has numerous entrances of course. This entry gate and pavilion along Penn Avenue was built in 1885, designed by Henry A. Macombs who had won a design competition for the structure. During construction, the design was modified so that the 135 foot tall bell tower would match the famous courthouse downtown by <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2008/12/henry-hobson-richardson-in-pittsburgh.html">Henry Hobson Richardson</a>.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqB2cU8yBzbFXehyb0TpAgJdIb9hW1V-eSx9ukQ9F5U_3WN8G-qIdeM-cOAg6-rsCa7wvc4IXtdJCPztY9dE9o1RvltXGAuUL-VJ15HgOnon1RAegSdi1yUgQb9lcygZocHVjVNHW4Pg/s1600/tall+tower.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599567909263563042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqB2cU8yBzbFXehyb0TpAgJdIb9hW1V-eSx9ukQ9F5U_3WN8G-qIdeM-cOAg6-rsCa7wvc4IXtdJCPztY9dE9o1RvltXGAuUL-VJ15HgOnon1RAegSdi1yUgQb9lcygZocHVjVNHW4Pg/s400/tall+tower.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>Good design can be found in the most unexpected places!</div><br /><div><em>Sorry for the poor quality of the photos: they were snapped with my phone!</em></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Allegheny Cemetery

Yes, I know this post may be better suited to Halloween than a post-Easter followup, but what can I say, I love old cemeteries! Nestled int...

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Vizcaya: the courtyard

<div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593049893472268914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlBLeyFChZBXJn4oCvN7-byxKXWGttBX-Kkc9UkyBGmt32sYQqEZpNQmbwNbpYWA49Agd6tBHFCHK6eTb2VfKJFi0urh-wq_4mF7Y2HNd3Ja9eyF-hkQhNGWKZXdHiDWhTILbCX7gLb1U/s400/detail.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />The functional center of Vizcaya remains the courtyard. Once open to the elements, as discussed, it now has been enclosed with a glass roof to help protect the house's contents as well as to provide an all-season location for events.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593050096288321394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6UOECokam7dWpW_XR803fPuRuMKPoCj3QEQuDnScJGqniPVxXlKjZrq1TtvKiX1c2p4e4fTQEM_WN5s7SyBr5U2arJFXTBp0HnXJAkuy7Esi40I_KjmcPteCK0StwFKEMtn1KRsXdY8s/s400/north+arcade.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 289px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The courtyard is bordered on 2 sides by arcades filled with art and furniture, seen here, as well as 2 loggias previously discussed; the <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2011/03/vizcaya-entrance-loggia.html">Entrance Loggia</a> and the <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2011/03/vizcaya-living-room-and-east-loggia.html">East Loggia</a> facing the bay.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593050226694114370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb86dmbmGko1-2tDQyBgu6DdSg-DATEpR5gdafbqGcWUm0_VeVg7aGKivUDg2J_5w2sp2qQO3gEDqd3TieNvH5Hs-lsybmg9ib8-2DuCWUsDP-HxXzd7cUhVrHLkl10u74ibLlRM6a9dQ/s400/sconces.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />These spaces really functioned as hallways linking the primary rooms of the house as well as providing covered access to the upstairs.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593050094456860322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5WNdhVNViXBthK65NhnkAxBG6lisj6z0LGL5DTcb8LFZFNGNTQvO0JY-O6yiPv3SrrxcLJtgAuqFkxU5vmlQyGtZbG1ZHkbuYPsnBQFgdK4fiFF5ViIgJTMFreJEcIilfPC7moUcDBY/s400/looking+into+courtyard.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 310px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Here you can begin to see the glass canopy added in the 80s, with heavy concrete supports somewhat masked by the corner planting beds. Just imagine this space when it looked right up into the sky! Despite originally being left open, plans were drafted which had designs for a silk canopy to cover the courtyard. This was never installed due to cost, but accounts exist of parties where the space was actually tented. Therefore, a covered courtyard would not have been completely shocking to Deering or Chalfin.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593049888673935426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMl-nDhCicIR1gUzkyYZ6ZrysUmTzLFhWZcfodE-ug201PkEJ5vsWrhYF9MMES33icVvB_i-sNQuHkmfTR1jFeK4eaqS6vrm631GyENQU17hv_Vhxonz3627zfqM9H9K7oDerqwLi5coo/s400/courtyard+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 295px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The fountain below blocks the view from the front entry into the courtyard. This not only provides some privacy as the courtyard was the most used 'room' in the house, but saves the magnificent open space as a surprise.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593050075710475106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc24TP1wX-THaPbz8IVsqMPg-t18TIcJU5z4aMeB9jf-D_sZfu_yIvqnIBw1fFdOhlnZWlrKNibNqeehuoow2FLNrYAX0PjQX5C1BzsOR_VxGM6FyEU045TMVZZupsnF6xMRWAuL4TIjc/s400/fountain.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The view into the arcades is really beautiful, especially through the plantings. I love this Swedish clock.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593051289751600146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Dw0apWWJbg_flHeky1opQzXPArr9GGvWzA9dx0cX0nrtPq-ZoxP7cv9m8lvSaQ19T0V3w5y92XtPuv1RKJzCg-IfaZ8zuV33YW3B5Xfbv8G6Bfmv6u-rBrJ-E-ehLAdZe5BeoI4Cuaw/s400/orchids.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Despite being enclosed, the courtyard still feels enormous and light filled; the plantings ground you firmly in Florida.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593049879981305298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR99jk6FOackHKUlv4urU7JN1RdrlubU2C-Kg0K-YFr1eEcUgxCVt-C_i4LzqFDQK72SThyphenhyphenig1ZEpG55nDu0AftwQmN5dmxekDI77q0xXjb10Jpixsvk3Q0j6LQNBYwMMGc-Raubv8Kwo/s400/courtyard.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 299px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The gallery on the 2nd story provides access to the bedrooms as well as views down into the courtyard.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593049875450965970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tcwSWdzhfOOn3PXSuJ8ABYHIqlac_7YX9rQ-qDhRAc6R04Koa6d7RTzMmb55t2c_K1fxawc2e7KLPMmzXjO8oe7OMaibrr1uqwpAF__COlSNzZoHOsRhUQvabtdstSAIuwSuPfDtHmo/s400/corner+garden.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 297px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The wall along the East Loggia housed both a clock as well as a wind gauge; again more technology!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593049871453780994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcFQE5Q3jWzD2M0nZNvYLzUhvEe8jC7cpkhEwrmaYOUjSMHmyGuSNTGyySUf5nptwOPTBIefViqNz_HNnAJAyHmqx_6jJZrBnWuABSSkO8pnJ-e9E4THgs5wJmI6Z_jFryaLW3s-R0ka4/s400/clock.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 294px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Despite the grandness of the house, the stairs to the 2nd floor were not ostentatious but rather practical (yet still provided a gracious ascent, how many of us have stairs this wide at home?).<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUtmAUC4MXQbLz3JBo2Vqn0El2C6UaaSUzzbiHXuV4_9KqFH4R-WGS9-MYNRN6uG9b1JivPSmijpedmJRXQbyqQ-7r2nzdHeusm3Fgs1VT5NSBnrs1QulfRZc6lU8Gy63exN3wm0CGms/s1600/staircase.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593050228387080034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaUtmAUC4MXQbLz3JBo2Vqn0El2C6UaaSUzzbiHXuV4_9KqFH4R-WGS9-MYNRN6uG9b1JivPSmijpedmJRXQbyqQ-7r2nzdHeusm3Fgs1VT5NSBnrs1QulfRZc6lU8Gy63exN3wm0CGms/s400/staircase.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Join me next week as I continue the tour with the bedrooms as well as more highlights from <a href="http://www.highpointmarket.org/">High Point Market</a>!</div>

Vizcaya: the courtyard

The functional center of Vizcaya remains the courtyard. Once open to the elements, as discussed, it now has been enclosed with a glass roof ...

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Vizcaya: the Casino

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581186034913025842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXjZZcsHu6S_GEAjWFPox3H-R9trUWGXkptCgd1tKz75Gs0E96yGngIXbZJd2HsgrEMSBq5Z-hpYWFdVq6U9ykWiB2EfQITXx1jp20RiFJ78Ychr99JnuoSjcjupr0HQCEXyRQote9oBE/s400/the+casino.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Located on top of the 'Mound', the Casino provides a focal point to the view from the house as well as provide the typical garden folly; a place to enjoy the view of the gardens and the house.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70mF0Dhhh_hWrWVGsJLS0wDeOF2qjVmt8hIGO40qtOh9N-00NdXx-IBNOvM7240A2DzHtbMOVwKCUr9ajxMMVMovxK4kuwIgj_9-MVt_YpEhKIzc2eCgUfzIDgs5xuewK1aQlL33CRaw/s1600/Vizcaya+map.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581186040584016178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70mF0Dhhh_hWrWVGsJLS0wDeOF2qjVmt8hIGO40qtOh9N-00NdXx-IBNOvM7240A2DzHtbMOVwKCUr9ajxMMVMovxK4kuwIgj_9-MVt_YpEhKIzc2eCgUfzIDgs5xuewK1aQlL33CRaw/s400/Vizcaya+map.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 302px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>Located in a heavily wooded garden on the map(#12), the Casino (#13) overlooks what would have been the original water park behind the estate, which was sold in the 1940s to the Catholic Diocese who developed the site.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184400136935618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NIVcodZxitBhcg_QVSqoAkyvPzSoIsK4k8fT5pb36tx6P5-v1lG6qL3q4jFf4b9DcvQb0pO90Ix6QWqvbNEWsqruxaWEwSfCGGL2byCjidJO-fEfFhnOeSLKhSLq99GxtxmlMkYPQ04/s400/folly.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 296px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The structure is part of the retaining wall system of the mound and is 1 story facing the garden and main house and 2 stories on the rear. It should be noted that the trees were planted full growth so as to provide instant shade!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184168854842066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGEYzwZxwfZxeWCw1BhP62WLw-2hSUVj3CY-q0AanDuYF2c0f_7hgmpucH3R1QhMsXqOuLQB8S9CpD3x8XD_VKCtbUWa9VHsWJ3pRegbStg3iAPK9mWzq-GHN2ZnJAxCd2Yd7L86TWSo/s400/bust.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />I loved these garden benches in front of the 2 rooms of the Casino.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184163044080402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWKbLITpxYWlrUzC93UDCz7urc4OWfyGYJbLk_dXShVBbYlcI8bgZHrvth3DHevoD2dawqcr0sBuzOX0bta2h69BB5DhKgR1MMCJhjgadBGcwI6EOdyy-sBKva6Nco7CSComXwC6aFkk/s400/bench.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 302px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Salvaged marble composite capitals decorate the steps up to the loggia of the Casino.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184701917950642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrachLFOzTkWFjTgKKIe02i2yuTMl5SrHEEhtwza8lFHfyQDEtknRnLZ5dw8xi4wOp_J9-QO_OzHTtcOW0IFCLsyYLarntrWIlBwdr3J4_IAhcmJpc6UDwYBVgPXNfoKcN5MsgPwPdly0/s400/marble+capital.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 382px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The ceiling of the loggia is painted in the Italian Renaissance style. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184396433984130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BsqBHDlzIJYzW7XmV3Ms-xuRVg3-WZvXhUasldMuj59vtA0bZpHGsgvzWwTpA_RM5ZUn2bmJxUhwokUX4skNM11EAEUADP4H-V8rIQUbUK90ggcy1vztJKw-ozvzEW4fSiBohohWEC8/s400/covered+porch.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 278px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The center panel (painted by Paul Thevanez) was infilled into an older found painting from the studio of none other than Gianbattista Tiepolo.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184174100585634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh5I1jUdz0XOZKqe8ZOWHF8iL8V5ErrdjzjNaXZIZyNMcPFvzjtJjEbUbu2FNQBcI-Jtdq0AlrudynsFSv1d6SVeO4HE149J9UComfUkXSzbJMmGfmOplkK-Y8LQVHthKHca7ou5ct6M/s400/casino+ceiling.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />You can see where it has been pieced together and also (I believe) a recent and ongoing restoration.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185466835990194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF1HZ6T7CrNJo1Um-BBcE-xSIasoMAefvHTkOZKkxD35w2gr2z1kF8Qc63UoqR6VljKJCXxIAeUBqh_6t2QrqqQOBp1DZHEl0ZrbFnr2O4Gv3N66HsL50tukAPmxAQKmYIPZHNYXT5bg/s400/painted+ceiling.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The interiors of the 2 rooms flanking the loggia are decorated in 18th century italian style.<br /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185886837439458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QOM20G8mQnDgN4vf7cXRjrqZV9itTUk6Hd9wO9mq_83BKKeNTGjADsQijhJ9Op1lLOw3qVo4H-DYuG-TfZdfLcUfdFYgaDTrlm24TQ_Vxpj_N0tm0DTStYF-piM84kqYGZxNSjgKY3o/s400/seating+group.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Grand chandeliers for the smallest of rooms and don't forget the fireplaces!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184378531375890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjesGWs2YQX9MvqJA4NF9woJhFVwXOOCTC0O6VK2Kj18xYNd04CVZlmI6b3hERCW6EWGuaDj2EKlmNja9X3SA9kAea9vSmFxyXeuG8Wuz0sFJmE8SpBTPktzylsjK830NqhKlUC_GYmMjM/s400/chandelier.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Imagine taking tea here in the gardens; I would never leave!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184406408211554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHEwR2o5Lkb6gBjoAZMxYuY7grm94Gi-OV76aWwzbKXssYIF9ljHhmiqr_HQU4XbQQLw_7Nwnu0hdw9qAQ_lPUFlJnfdqF71vQOd959nwKZtRUeiXSxzI2Q8lYVZwjYpj0MFqWKC06x2M/s400/img693.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Notice the patterned marble floors.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184157689840002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7JPMqZ5lLvOYoeYWSWJ_QZ-h-kXCjGyNQppFQq8R__OgOggEGBgdXLQs0CXw7gDU33oq93jLfCcAlUKy-Kw-5EFv-UgYO860bOMcuWhMT4NtwRPnhLyDG2hPMolIhKSdogep0SNlgaQ/s400/armchair.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 357px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Each room is slightly different, but each is furnished with a seating area in front of a fireplace.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184709750735106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbIdx7SoFu1XWenShyphenhyphenOJpk6Ioj2P4bZlNHUhc4u9SI5QI4OkEYtjNhneHjxV5edn4yHiUujDnk-oxTl1e0dYi39snARk-48vsFRUPc-FQMBu5NGK9ktdkacfKstFnjy-IRmVhTFbl2YME/s400/over+mantel.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The painted finish on the interior is really gorgeous.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185470182240850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjABlFPiyt_CUyQeoFAQAT5iRw1T4Dx8aZaMo3SsV0Emx_AIezPwt7iaDFrK11luEkK_AllLZcuU-VDRAEGECXtTXqWxySyoXKrhipkKfVjd5mNUMgJ6gFHuzv9PY10DboFDYrjqQvpqpA/s400/painted+door.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />On the sides of the Casino are these statues decorating the front of where the chimneys are hidden.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185894278106146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLKz3iPb3SospqwHxnMl66Ay4T2hxfnVPZQJ9fWMyrceHG36BVNa4zIiTIwd14gDPHMbRYRgu87TU9VUFszbjt4QLcr4kkZKkualpwedCC60pBS96pN9W77rd9ZtrbpkfIA9r5ncg0JM/s400/statue.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The views down to the rear garden lawn are now lush and green, although back in Deering's time they faced acres of canals where guests could ride gondolas; sort of a private amusement park or ultra-chic lazy river!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184685025575346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHHCpju05S52yaDeaTPXfEulogaKOWvap4KIWwtSXh_FbHYcnb4Rq0FrPI77V7ajxdBR7kIi0ZZNFbYB94at_d9iXecd6sM3u1-zTp6NHnFU0_N6ae06GODjfM6ZVl8SuH1pry8C4k0Y/s400/lawn.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The canals were infilled for development and a screen of trees was planted, changing the view forever.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185483575433890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtAx1HhlSa3yhZs7igrtWbbnvh77oFlTbdYr5RqBNhDMsZ5zI81CxjfNfXWb7tH2HBrn15POWpHX_bUTbha9HjSXQcQ9pTfNVMItFqjcjjJLckr3Jhp-1O4vM5FZl9Iu91vQQd8eJOTB4/s400/retaining+wall.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The steps snake down the sides of the casino and down to what would have been a gondola launch.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185890253496162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7uIDY4lw7l8ohSNInYysStlKCCtGQDscqUBgBHBUAzGtQND8ql9CfNQ3REsLTs-wjZ7jSfo-QLsc0nypETYN4V6AGO6_JeanS0p6dogFhaIh5R1DYDbb7Po4XFI0QtZx5IMYpSFAghg/s400/staircase.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The underside of the casino had restrooms flanking a loggia, similar to upstairs, which are now mechanical rooms. I loved these little round windows looking into these rooms below.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185885754679698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8_Dk8pjkCarNT12yUiPDVmEr3AS9dKX9yF3_DjwKVzq1agaIksgAM43A1pUGQ_rnAnNOFUtqCqLvpGXHU8Vc7bcc1oZ8BspmTtH_8jt7O1z2T7q5BUJMB2BkcoMoEUsqqpUEJ80Rwmc/s400/round+window.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The little Casino doesn't look so small from behind!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185473613234434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlwkMn6kEsZ5r_Ldl2OCuOd4UB0yO1waEwOko0H3G75GHyYvk_224hLDsSm5_eXNGU7aMkf2MWclYDMTgMyUNNvYMsd9dmJrwLPkEQgzut1GSckRP38OVoLTDTppJ-9voxeM7a2yMrnA/s400/rear+facade.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The photoshoot seemed to be following me around the gardens.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184708340911378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitp3TJbSWi80P0hq327GMcZEPgyEZHrMFdqvRiCM4ZkTMX4crp8vhl4giEY9E1kp9peUzbIPjsu1hBpa5TskMUzZy8WqC8R6scUo5AaevPMvi1qkSP57-ZFE3wvssH8uRRggMoIj-OtQI/s400/model.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Notice the delicate ironwork.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184159738245714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE1QjlVsUKQDFH4EG5n6MGDIlxLytn8uYbTiIJi2Wq3sgBHgI0RW30hCO5458XO-u1ea7BPNCVM7fiEIn5TIZVNPNBVgbrTfecxELR9kayRpz5S3fD7FmXTOQ5En8PfbaNZoIzu6C3Beo/s400/balcony.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The rusticated coral limestone is really spectacular at this lower level.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185905344627026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2q4oT82rijOhpw5bob3rJHhoGUecksTzgFZCZNeOZC9jcNDFr7zIAsX8w3qU6mc6evbWjghkJPQ7-_1GjMUbWR6YhtWglLskNSiWw3EHvOmTuwGA-l_wa5Z_pskBvOJ2o6xffnpfc8M4/s400/symmetry.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The lower loggia has fountains in line with the openings and a barrel vaulted ceiling.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184406144628482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswvSjjujdYPc0R5z0xbOY95oNkMQJLc8_k0ChK7-oDvzk2TIWMQyNGdNgG0PNUiW7FpyQ2KCQ0-KBeR5G50d9KCwCNA4tHqzddR3mAsfbNJlK-5pIVPU9uTgl_VavBa1-_COSNaHTB40/s400/grotto.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The overdoors to the entry to the bathrooms have these great faces!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581184709170058050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQkfb-fxca0R6O8q0RdsB5YYqsUnHnvRO_qZI0ATozBb9OrG-YCC62MEy-XhxPyq-iDnQHhpJUUFxxn5-2TyDwD6GKm5W4Hpa0WnAvJ2b55UK7viyLZmER-afBzd-FmIWkVR8hDA0Fg4/s400/overdoor.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />It's not Italianaite without some statuary!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581185488626063346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXC_BAbaZJKFaWKU3C18Jmwr24qF7w3IG15CMiW01nET-zleSNWJofSaB0oySZH1cLxZNmjmlYDjQ5uCR0sG6y4DfMSa82GzBsle3Tffsh13Yq_61I7NdSa3h25n7KCVKIJGA9rH4JmXo/s400/roofline.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The launch for the long-gone gondolas still exists, albeit it a little overgrown. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581186032125474050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithxvXVDo1qgrJoOZ_8v7sTUie2kCTDDCue3y7AgRgc96NIJzHPby-_7tdU-IsaOYY3vKqhZbVkGCSzSwFH1hAWNU1iMoAHYRM6OeZgmVh_jML73upqrh0QQFZgntk7QUNmP_UWHlbmow/s400/terrace.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />A charming reminder of what once was.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtovqmKG7lVxmuvXjElrjcWx0-fIHYFw35uwYJVQdVsv9EVkgZGpb2WgIZU9Bm5sYdvO67cimv7nY0KzEdxviT6bZIrmOfqxgxIpHxvZLqVYvFQAVrMhMIbZvwcy0f5-pL8L6IvZ7fD8/s1600/venetian+pole.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581186039093630514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtovqmKG7lVxmuvXjElrjcWx0-fIHYFw35uwYJVQdVsv9EVkgZGpb2WgIZU9Bm5sYdvO67cimv7nY0KzEdxviT6bZIrmOfqxgxIpHxvZLqVYvFQAVrMhMIbZvwcy0f5-pL8L6IvZ7fD8/s400/venetian+pole.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 281px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> </div>

Vizcaya: the Casino

Located on top of the 'Mound', the Casino provides a focal point to the view from the house as well as provide the typical garden fo...

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