King of Hearths
Written by Kristen Carr; Edited by Philip Herrera; Photograph by Celia Pearson
Town & Country, December 1998, page 89

Because the mantelpiece embellishes the hearth - the visual focus of any room - it should be considered as important as a fine piece of furniture. Enter Darryl Savage of Annapolis, Maryland. His studio, DHS Designs, sells beautifully hand carved limestone mantelpieces dating back to the 16th century and salvaged intact from manor houses in the Loire Valley. DHS imports the mantels in numbered pieces that can be reconstructed easily by a good stonemason - ask Savage or your interior decorator for a recommendation. The average waiting time is two to three weeks; prices range from $10,000 to $75,000. DHS Designs, 410.827.8167.