Tobacoo leaves as wall decor

June 8, 2009

For anyone used to seeing fields of tobacco growing in Central Kentucky fields or hanging in a barn, here’s a new way to incorporate the state’s disappearing crop.

In June’s Elle Decor a Southampton homeowner used browned tobacco leaves as a wall covering . Miami-based designer, Hernan Arriaga, came up with the idea to give the room a Cuban feel.

How did he do it? Elle Decor explains: “As any cigar aficionado can attest, tobacco is known for its tendency to absorb humidity — which is good in a cigar and bad in a wall covering. But months of perseverance by a craftsman who experimented with various shellacs and finishes ultimately proved successful.”

Here’s a photo (above from Elle Decor) of the tobacco-covered study.

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Entry Filed under: Elle Decor, Uncategorized, tobacco. Tags: , .



4 Comments Add your own

  • 1.    Hernan arriaga  |  July 8th, 2009 at 10:16 am

    just wanted to thank u for the writing on the Tobacco leaves.It was alot of fun doing it. This is one of my favorite rooms ever
    Hernan arriaga

  • 2.    Harriett Hendren  |  July 9th, 2009 at 11:55 am

    I loved the room.
    It’s a wonder that no one here in Kentucky has thought of it. We have fields of tobacco growing here every year.

  • 3.    melissa rigsby  |  August 28th, 2009 at 10:53 am

    Exactly how did they do it. At what stage was the tobacco? and what shellac did they use How did they attach it to the wall?

  • 4.    Harriett Hendren  |  September 3rd, 2009 at 3:39 pm

    I’ve not sure what stage the tobacco was in, but it must have been pretty dry to work. Here’s the Web site for the decorator, Hernan Arriaga. http://www.hernanarriaga.com.

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Your server: Harriett Hendren

Harriett HendrenWhile I grew up in small-town Kentucky I’ve always been fascinated with the cosmopolitan world of high fashion. On the other hand, I love a bargain and the thrill of shopping for just the right piece. I have a degree in English from the University of Kentucky, and since 2002 I’ve written a column for the Lexington Herald-Leader about shopping, beauty and fashion. During that time I’ve interviewed everyone from designers to boutique owners about trends and style. And I’m still forever searching for the next big sale.

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