Talking Shop: The Grand Tour
In the age of algorithms, nothing quite matches the serendipity of a new find. This adventurous spirit abounds at The Grand Tour in Palm Beach’s Royal Poinciana Plaza. The boutique is the passion project of interior designer Caroline Rafferty (above) and her mother, Julie Fisher Cummings. “We’ve always been drawn to objects that have a story to tell,” says Rafferty, “and I wanted to create an arena for them.”
Taking its name from the 17th- to-19th-century rite of passage where well-heeled Europeans traveled the continent and Britain learning about and searching for art and artifacts, the store offers a mix of modern-day artisanal furnishings and accessories, and iconic vintage pieces. Here, Rafferty shares some favorite gems.
EQUILIBRI VASES
Designed by Dimorestudio for the celebrated Italian ceramic brand Bitossi Ceramiche, these vases are a true favorite of mine for their mix of materials and saturated color palettes. They are made of cast clay and hand-applied brass, and finished with chic glazes in rich, moody hues.
ELECTRA EGGLESTON FINE TEXTILES
I’m a huge fan of Electra Eggleston’s fabrics for two reasons: I love their bold use of color and pattern. And the story behind them tugs at my heartstrings, as family is so important to us. They are a collaboration between the father- daughter duo Andra Eggleston (an actress and designer) and photographer William Eggleston (whose acclaimed work was instrumental in helping color images gain acceptance as an art form).
OFF THE MOON SIDE TABLE N°5
I love to entertain, and this piece by French brand Maison Dada serves as the perfect little drink table. It has a sculptural lean to it and its charming design was inspired by the way our perspective of the moon changes based on its relationship to the sun.
