Mad for Malachite-Inspired Home Decorfeatured

Malachite – pronounced mal-a-kite – is a semi-precious gemstone that has become a design world darling as of late. Believed to be a protector of wee ones and said to prevent accidents and mishaps when worn, this gorgeous green mineral is popping up in everything from furnishings and fabrics to this Cole & Son wallpaper (pictured above in a photo courtesy of Ken Fulk for Pottery Barn). I probably could’ve used a bit of malachite’s magical protective powers this past weekend when my one-year-old took a header down two steps and landed in the ER…twice. But I digress.

For a recent project, I was tasked with creating a serene yet inspiring guestroom that elicited a restful state of mind without being a full-on bore. I decided to swath the room in soothing neutrals – creams and ivories, crisp whites and caramels – but then punctuated the beige haze with rich emeralds, jades and malachite-greens. The effect was cool yet lush, calm yet creative. It feels urbane but not untouchable and I hope this little jewel of a guestroom becomes a place that friends and family members want to return to again and again. Only when invited, of course.

If you’re interested in creating your own Emerald City of sorts, here are a few of my most-wanted malachite trimmings:

1. Swedish Slipper Chairs, Jacki Mallick Designs, $1,625/pair
2. Faux Malachite Lacquered Mirror, vintage, $950
3. 2 Malachite Boxes, Couture, $199
4. Malachite Ice Bucket, vintage, $65
5. Bamboo Malachite Side Table, Chelsea Home, (trade only)
6. Malachite Bar Cart, Chelsea Home, (trade only)
7. Emerald Harbin Accent Table, World Market, $50
8. Malachite Table Lamp, Maitland Smith, $799
9. Faux Malachite Garden Stool, Upton Home, $148
10. Malachite Throw Pillow, Whitlock & Co, $42
11. Malachite Parsons Benches, vintage, $855