Interior Design

3rings
Diesel Beyond Denim: Foscarini’s Fork Lamp

Jenny Rector

9 Feb 2010 | 10:25 am

First off, when did clothing manufacturers start teaming up with lighting manufacturers to make lamps? Diesel has built its reputation as a clothing brand - and more specifically as a maker of jeans. But last year during Salone, (the International Furniture Fair in Milan) the brand welcomed its new collections: furniture with Moroso, lighting with Foscarini and the second Home textile collection by Zucchi - all designed by Diesel’s Creative Team headed by Creative Director Wilbert Das. These excursions into new fields of design, which include Fork for Foscarini, are a part of Diesel’s…
Fernando Akasaka Asks: Are You a Cowboy Junkie?

Joseph Starr

9 Feb 2010 | 9:30 am

Are my eyes deceiving me of late or do we seem to be in the early stages of a newfound longing for the artifacts of the 80s? I only pose the question because in the past two weeks, my wife and I have not only seen a put-together, career-ish twenty-something sauntering the streets of Savannah in silvery-metallic leggings, but also the likes of cultural icons Victoria Beckham and Michelle Obama enhancing their contours with shoulder pads! Cowboy Junkie. Designed by Fernando Akasaka. While others may feel differently, those who attended high school during those aesthetically-deficient ten years…
Maison Ventury Paris Launches the Millesime Special Series Carat Line

Jenny Rector

8 Feb 2010 | 3:02 pm

Luxury in its most ostentatious form: exclusive, pricey and gold. Maison Ventury Paris’ Divine Collection Millesime Line “takes inspiration from the poise and glamour of Parisian chic”. Each chair is hand-tailored in France by skilled craftsman using state-of-the-art tools. Through the premium bespoke engraving service, each chair is numbered and personalized with the name of the owner or its own brand. Bling, glamour - whatever you call it, these flashy lounge chairs won’t go unnoticed. Carat Line. Designed by Maison Ventury Paris. Creator of exclusive luxury furniture and…
Be My Valentine: I Heart Panton’s Heart Cone Chair

Alicita Rodriguez

8 Feb 2010 | 12:37 pm

I’m assuming that this mid-century classic was assigned to me in honor of Valentine’s Day. While I don’t celebrate the holiday, I do celebrate this chair and its creator. Designed in 1959 by Denmark’s Verner Panton, Heart Cone Chair began as a variant of the slightly more demure Cone Chair of 1958. The metamorphosis went from the fantastical to the fanciful: Cone Chair looks like an ice cream delicacy and Heart Cone Chair like a box of chocolates. Whoever would have thought I’d grow so fond of sweets and hearts? Heart Cone Chair. Designed by Verner Panton. Panton once worked as an…
Framing the Flame: Vauni’s Cupola Fireplace

Alicita Rodriguez

8 Feb 2010 | 9:27 am

Swedish company Vauni is rethinking fire: “the fundamental nature of what fire brings about—warmth, harmony, joy—must never be overlooked.” The company admits the difficulty inherent in the design process: “Designing a fireplace that paraphrases the profound tradition of wood-burning represents a great challenge.” With Markus Grip at the helm, Vauni has succeeded in designing bio-fueled fireplaces that “harmonize with the value of fire.” Cupola Fireplace. Designed by Vauni. The Vauni fireplaces house fire as if the element were itself an art piece, framing the flame. In…

Design*Sponge
living in: bright star

grace

9 Feb 2010 | 10:00 am

I basically held my hand in front of my mouth for the entire length of Bright Star. Sheer and utter, insane beauty. Desperately romantic. Hopelessly sweet and sad. Even now, days later, I’m still a little dizzy thinking about it. Fellow d*s editor Amy A. did me a huge favor by sitting me down to watch it- a favor I am now thrilled to bestow upon you, lovely readers. rose jacquard ribbon $39/yd, linen fabric, trumeau mirror $449, antique correspondence, antique paste & pearl ring $225, candlestick, book boxes $49, embroidery scissors $20, directoire chest $1300, intermission heels…
past & present: billy baldwin shopping round-up!

amya

9 Feb 2010 | 9:00 am

Billy Baldwin certainly loved his brown and his lacquer. Billy once said that every country house needs a dog so I couldn’t resist including a greyhound in homage to the painting in his own home. Billy abhorred leggy furniture saying it made the room feel restless, but I was just not into the box pleat slipper chairs – I hope he’ll forgive me. [from left: rare books, vintage 1950s tulu carpet $1800, JF Herring Sr print $15 slipper chair $950, mirrored side table $89.99, greyhound, pouf $109-299, brass candlestick $50-65, oxford style heels $80.06] For our goodbye to…
past & present: billy baldwin (part 1)

amya

9 Feb 2010 | 8:00 am

illustration by julia rothman I don’t have much of a fashion memory, but when I was looking at Billy Baldwin interiors all week, I kept thinking about Gwyneth Paltrow’s Oscar dress in 1996. I’ve always loved that dress – it was all white, and she just looked clean, casual and effortless. (She also had Brad Pitt on her arm so that helped). (This is the only good picture I can find of that dress.) Baldwin’s style was crisp, elegant and a little slick, but it was above all simple and practical. (He always said that the best way to update a room was to simplify.)…
biz ladies: getting it made

Stephanie

9 Feb 2010 | 7:00 am

[i'm so thrilled to introduce stephanie todaro to our d*s team! stephanie was my right hand during the d*s book manuscript process so i promptly scooped her up to join our team as the editor of both the biz ladies and city guides columns. click here (and scroll down) to read more about her. welcome, steph!] design*sponge is happy to welcome megan auman to the biz ladies column today. megan is a jewelry and home accessories designer and also hosts a blog geared towards the crafting and design business. today, she graciously shares with us some expert advice on how to go about outsourcing the…
oklahoma city guide

grace

9 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

today’s city guide comes from caroline duke of greedy girl and kelly beall at design crush. kelly and caroline are walking us through their hometown of oklahoma city and sharing her insider picks for the best spots to shop, eat, and site-see (organized by neighborhood). i hope the next time you’re in town you’ll check out some of these great local spots! thanks to kelly and caroline for sharing their home city with us. CLICK HERE for the full city guide after the jump! This is a really exciting time to be living in Oklahoma City. (Wow, I never thought I’d type those…

Houzz
10 Ways to Add Chocolate to Your Life (10 photos)

It's almost Valentine's Day...and that means chocolate. Lots and lots of red heart-boxed chocolate.Chocolate is delicious in the box, and it's amazing in the home, too. It's a rich color, with depth and sophistication, and works in a lot of ways.As an aside, several of these rooms were designed...
How To Add Layers To Your Dwelling (12 photos)

Having moved nine times in nine years, my husband and I have become masters of settling in, fast. Not disregarding the wisdom that a dwelling should evolve, and that over time the many layers should reflect stages of experience, some of us don't have that kind of time. So far our longest sojourn in the...
Great Color Combination: Black + Blue (10 photos)

When people mention "black and blue" together we always think about bruises. Unless you happen to be one those people who finds bruises beautiful, you probably don't think too often about putting this color combination together. That's too bad; it's a great combination because the colors compliment each...
From the Print Files: Fabulous Florals (17 photos)

Whether it's elegant tulips, shabby roses, oversized murals, or pop art Marimekko poppies, floral prints always breathe life into a room. You can add them via artwork, upholstery, rugs, wallpaper, curtains, or even just temporarily on a tablecloth. Today there is more selection than ever in terms of...
The Farmhouse Table (14 photos)

There's no denying that the farmhouse table has sustained its romanticism over time. The raw aesthetic, bucolic sentiment, and sturdy functionality keep it en vogue in various settings and tastes. In more modern settings, it serves a subtly substantial grounding point for creating an updated and unique...

Decor8 Daily Updates
Interview With Deborah Needleman

decor8

9 Feb 2010 | 4:28 am

I just read such a lovely interview with former Domino magazine Editor-in-Chief Deborah Needleman over on Natalie Walton’s blog Daily Imprint. If you didn’t catch that, you must check it out. I have to quote Deborah for just a moment because I love how she defines what she thinks makes a truly stylish person. I think it shakes up the typical impression one has when they think of successful New York stylist, writer, designer… I once only imagined ruthless and pretentious types (ha ha Hollywood films and television series didn’t help!) but Domino did a great job of…
Real Simple Weddings 2010

decor8

9 Feb 2010 | 3:45 am

There is one thing I think that we can sometimes misplace during the course of a lifetime. Of course we can get it back again, but it’s good to try not to lose it in the first place. It’s our sense of curiosity. Not really for things we’re naturally interested in, but for those in which we are not. Children tend to explore a lot more than adults, when we age we start to fall into comfort zones and ruts and forget that once in them we can always crawl out and allow ourselves to become curious explorers once again. That is why I frequently reference things that are not always…
Superfolk

decor8

9 Feb 2010 | 12:45 am

Good morning! I’m certain that this will soon be on every single design blog out there, but I’m going to post it anyway because c’mon – look at this furniture – how can I resist? These beauties (stool, table, wallpaper and lampshade) are from Irish design studio Superfolk who just launched their new range of products at the Stockholm Furniture Fair currently in progress. I’m betting they’ll be a huge hit. “Superfolk is an independent design studio established by Gearoid Muldowney in 2008. The studio’s heart is in the craft of production, be…
Bloomingville

decor8

8 Feb 2010 | 8:15 am

I’ve talked about Danish home brand Bloomingville by TrendKompagniet before, but it’s been awhile and with Spring and gardening on my mind a lot lately I’ve been looking for some inspiring products that bring a breath of fresh air into the home. Bloomingville is a brand that you can find in Germany, and it is gaining in popularity like many other Danish and Swedish labels that are starting to find many loyal customers here. This is the time of the year that I enjoy because Winter melts into clear, warm days and slowly you begin to find clothes and home accessories that fill…
Good Morning, Monday!

decor8

8 Feb 2010 | 6:32 am

Well here we are again, meeting up virtually for some inspiration and decorating ideas. But before we get started, how was your weekend? Did you accomplish all you had hoped? I had a nice weekend but ended up not finishing all of my work because I started watching French films and once I start I cannot stop! I love French movies and have several favorite actors from Paris — one being Romain Duris, do you know him? He was in both “Paris” and “Molière”, both are films that I highly recommend for the atmosphere and acting, but also the ability they have to lift you…

Inhabitat
World’s Smallest Solar-Powered Sensor Could Run Forever

Ariel Schwartz

9 Feb 2010 | 9:35 am

It’s easy enough to find a solar-powered charger for iPods, cell phones, and other gadgets, but this ultra-tiny solar-powered sensor system is smaller than anything else on the market — 1,000 times smaller than standard systems, in fact. Developed at the University of Michigan, the 2.5 x 3.5 x 1 millimeter system is the smallest in the world, and it can harvest energy from its surroundings almost perpetually.Read the rest of World’s Smallest Solar-Powered Sensor Could Run Forever Permalink | Add to del.icio.us | digg Post tags: alternative energy, eco design, energy…
Zaha Hadid’s Petroleum Research Center (Ironically) Aims For LEED Platinum

Bridgette Meinhold

9 Feb 2010 | 8:16 am

It may seem ironic, but even petroleum research centers can be LEED certified if they meet the critieria. Case in point: the King Abudullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC for short), designed by Zaha Hadid, is aiming for LEED Platinum. To be built in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the state of the art campus will house research and development facilities on energy and environmental exploration and analysis. We take that to read studies on better ways of finding more petroleum (which is hardly a practice we consider to be green) but at least the building itself is striving to be…
ReRev Makes Energy Generating Gyms a Reality

Bridgette Meinhold

9 Feb 2010 | 6:17 am

Many of us have been to the gym and wondered why the exercise equipment isn’t hooked up to generate electricity and feed it back into the grid. At long last a company in Florida called ReRev has answered our calls, converting existing elliptical machines into sources of power. Now when you hit the gym, you can burn off those calories while creating some renewable energy for a carbon negative workout. Read the rest of ReRev Makes Energy Generating Gyms a Reality Permalink | Add to del.icio.us | digg Post tags: elliptical machines, exercise, human generated power, human power, renewable…
Children’s Hospital is a Sheltering Haven that Proves Design Heals

Evelyn Lee

8 Feb 2010 | 9:42 pm

Storytelling design is the first step towards a healthier future for patients at the Evangelisches Konigin Elizabeth Krankenhaus children’s psychiatric hospital in Berlin. Designed as a collaborative effort between the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the Dan Pearlman Creative Agency, the center creates a fantastic narrative that guides patients on a journey to “Elise Island”, a safe place to play and rest hosted by Princess Elise. Read the rest of Children’s Hospital is a Sheltering Haven that Proves Design Heals Permalink | Add to del.icio.us | digg Post tags: childrens…
The Gyre: A Floating Upside Down Eco Skyscraper

Bridgette Meinhold

8 Feb 2010 | 2:00 pm

Can you imagine living in a high-rise apartment building where the 360 degree views are of fishes and saltwater? Although just a concept now, this upside-down, underwater eco-skyscraper could be the future of building, especially if sea levels rise as predicted and we end up living in a water world. Designed by Victoria BC-based firm Zigloo, the Gyre is a floating eco-development meant to be both a research station as well as an off-shore resort with shops, restaurants, gardens and recreation. Powered completely by the sun, wind and ocean, the Gyre would offer a zero emissions stay for both…

Susan Palmer Designs Blog
Celebrity Kitchens Deconstructed : Cher

Adrienne Palmer

30 Jan 2010 | 1:38 pm

This Bali style home owned by Cher features 6 bedrooms, 6 full baths and 2 half baths, and sits on a premier three-quarter acre lot in the exclusive community of the Four Seasons Hualalai on the big island of Hawaii. The home features ocean views, and views of the nearby Hualalai Golf Course. I have to say, I am a little disappointed in this kitchen, especially when you see the rest of this amazing house. Actually, there are quite a few things — small though they may be — that really bother me about this kitchen. First of all, the wood. The cabinetry is bookmatched mahogany with…
West Meets East - The Ofuro Vasca by Rapsel

Adrienne Palmer

26 Jan 2010 | 10:32 pm

The traditional Japanese Ofuro, loosely translated as “soaking tubs”, are not necessarily places to bathe, but traditionally were used to unwind, de-stress, and contemplate the simple things in life. Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez have created a new type of ofuro tub for Rapsel, which combines the properties of a western style bath tub (by elongating the tub) with the function of a traditional ofuro tub (larch wood construction). Rapsel’s new Ofuro Vasca allows complete immersion, while the material and composition convey calm and warmth. Made of larch wood - for a…
Celebrity Kitchens: Deconstructed

Adrienne Palmer

24 Jan 2010 | 6:57 pm

It’s a new year, and so it is time for some new things here! I have been thinking about making some changes to the blog by expanding our topics and adding some new types of content. Recently I was browsing through one of my favorite blogs, Hooked On Houses written by the lovely Julia, who regularly features the interiors of celebrity homes. I got the idea of combining my super-specing research capabilities with America’s fascination with celebrity homes … So starting today I am adding a new category titled Celebrity Kitchens: Deconstructed. I’ll do my best to…
New Faucets from Watermark Designs, Brooklyn NY

Adrienne Palmer

24 Jan 2010 | 2:01 pm

I am loving these new faucets we came across from Watermark Designs. Watermark is an American manufacturer that produces faucets and coordinating bath accessories with some really great features that we are really excited about! The more I learn about their products, the greater my appreciation for Watermark grows — here are some of the reasons why: Innovation The floor mounted faucets, like the one pictured below, have been around for a while in Europe. However, imported faucets can sometime be a bit tricky, as the installation methods and instructions can send some plumbers into a…
Just one more white kitchen, please?

Adrienne Palmer

22 Jan 2010 | 3:44 pm

Ok, I know, the days of the all white kitchen may soon be coming to an end, as a trend that is over saturated must eventually wind down and fall out of favor. One day, if not already, realtors will be screaming “outdated” and the design community at large will be turning their nose up at the all white kitchen request — just as soon as the bitter taste of tuscan-honey-wash-cabinetry becomes a distant memory. But until then, can we just look at this kitchen from the latest issue of Kitchen Trends? It’s amazing … It so pretty … what I love about this kitchen…

european-kitchen-design.com
The Countdown to Eurocucina Has Begun!

kitchenguy

8 Feb 2010 | 2:04 pm

Fired by the success of 2009’s record edition, despite the extremely challenging global economic climate, the Saloni will be back in April as always, hand in hand with their customary optimism. The Event is Back is, in fact, the new publicity campaign slogan: from 14th to 19th April the tried and tested team effort that constitutes the international benchmark for the Home Furnishing Sector will gather forces at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile (now in its 49th edition), Eurocucina / International Kitchen Furniture Exhibition (in its 18th) with its collateral event, FTK, devoted to…
The kitchen returns to Cologne in 2011

kitchenguy

30 Jan 2010 | 2:40 pm

With the Eurocucina, Milan show being just around the corner (April 14th - 19th, 2010), there seem to be an attempt for competition… - The Cologne Show! The IMM Cologne show Yes, the show that we have already given up on and became just a faded memory, is trying to make a comeback - according to IMM, the orgenaizers, in 2011, parallel to the imm cologne, the cathedral city will be playing host to the LivingKitchen® fair for the first time next year. The international kitchen trade fair will take place as an independent event every two years. It will have three Public Days and aims to…
Strato 031 – Marco Gorini did it again!

kitchenguy

21 Dec 2009 | 10:05 am

Besides to stainless steel and stone, he used rare and precious fossil durmast oak One of my personal all time favorite kitchen designers is Marco Gorini - at the Milan Design Week, in 2009, Gorini has done it again. He introduced the Strato 031 concept – another great kitchen design with a new twist. In the Strato 031, Gorini searched for unique designs, combined with the use of very unique materials. Besides to stainless steel and stone, he used rare and precious fossil durmast oak – the unusual wood, which isn’t originating from deforestation but rather form the subsoil, fruit of the…
küchentrends – The Little Kitchen Trade Show That Could!

kitchenguy

14 Nov 2009 | 7:09 am

While trade shows around the world are facing difficult times getting exhibits to show and attendees to come to the show, the kitchen industry is no difference - the Germany Cologne kitchen show, is pretty much done, the US KBIS last show, in Atlanta, had days with more exhibitors then attendees, walking down the aisles and many other shows that emerged in recent years (such The K&B Luxury show) are all history. kuechentrends-2009 In spite of the above, one small show in Munich, Germany, is fighting to establish itself as an authority in the industry. Since 2008, around March/April, they…
“STARCK BY WARENDORF”

kitchenguy

22 Oct 2009 | 7:53 am

After European-Kitchen-Design.com was the first to report (Sept. 12th, 2009) about the new Philippe Starck kitchen line/brand, that will replace the Miele brand and the reasons behind the change, we now have images of the new collection. “STARCK BY Warendorf” The AFG Arbonia-Forster Holding AG together with the Warendorfer Küchen GmbH published a press release on the 23rd of September making the announcement official. According to the company, the “…many innovative features it has been specifically designed to create buying incentives: Yellow mirrored glass as a…

NYT > Interior Design
Wrapping It Up

2 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

The interior designer Brad Ford uses blankets almost anywhere â draped over the foot of his bed, the arm of a sofa, a headboard â to change the mood of a room.
A Pesky Bedroom, Tamed by Pattern

2 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

After frustrating attempts at fixing up the bedroom in their Brooklyn apartment, a couple turned the room over to a pair of designers who remade it on a budget of $1,500.
The Clockmakerâs Retreat

2 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

In his apartment at the edge of Germanyâs Black Forest, the artist Stefan Strumbel embraces the street.
He Knows How to Work a Room

27 Jan 2010 | 9:00 pm

The decorator Jeffrey Bilhuber signed copies of his book at a preview event for the annual English and Continental sale at Doyle New York.
Let the Good Times Roll

20 Jan 2010 | 9:00 pm

The design firm AvroKO has collaborated with Eben Freeman, a mixologist, to create a professional-grade version of that old entertaining workhorse, the bar cart.

Interior Design, Decorating, Furniture, Architecture, Home & House Design Magazine
Beach Retreat for the Weekend: Beautiful 2 Bedroom Home in Malibu

Lavinia

9 Feb 2010 | 9:02 am

This small, but stylish home is located on the California shores, close to the beach and is meant for weekend gateways. The exterior, a modest but great looking building, with a metal roof and countryside feel creates an impression on the interior as well. Tall, white walls, plank floors and open ceilings really do great in optimizing the space. Wood is preset everywhere, giving a rustic and classic touch. The two bedrooms feature king-size beds and spacious wardrobes. Comfortable and warm, this place is quite inviting. Even though this house is situated in a green area, this does not…
Beautiful and Fresh 81 Sq Meter Apartment in Sweden

Lavinia

9 Feb 2010 | 2:07 am

With vivid colors, a strong appearance and stretching over a relatively small area, this apartment really stands out A funky, open floor plan connects the kitchen and the living room. There are two bedrooms, one of which features a double bed, a bedside table, huge windows and a practical wardrobe wall with sliding doors and mirrors which scores high in matters of storage space. The slightly smaller bedroom is similar: it also accommodates a double bed, a desk and a built-in spacious shelving system.The living-room is cozy and airy, colorful, perfect for socializing. There are also…
Egg House, A Fantastic Circular Residence in Prague

Lavinia

8 Feb 2010 | 4:55 pm

A69 is an architecture company from the Czech Republic. Contrary to a general belief, this house was not projected like this willingly. The site had many particular elements (a garden that needed to be preserved, an old building that was used as an adjacent support for the contemporary one) which made the development of the architecture plans rather tricky. However, the final results are stunning: a circular home built around a garden, which is also a space for relaxation. A roof garden is a particular feature of this house, which comes to increase its aesthetic value. Large windows are…
The Inflatable Blow Sofa by Malafo

Michael

8 Feb 2010 | 11:15 am

Showcased at [D3] Design Talents during imm cologne 2010, the “Blow Sofa” by Malafor is a simple yet functional unit that lets you carry and use your furniture anywhere, anytime with minimum fuss. The size of the sofa when fully inflated is 180 cm in width and 90cm in height. Made of 100% recycled dunnage paper bags blown up and connected to a metal frame with rubber bands, the Blow Sofa is certainly an innovative take on living room seating, but it is something you could live with? To be honest I don’t think that a lot of people will love this idea, but let’s see what do you…
Fujitsubo, an Unusual Architecture Design from Archvision

Lavinia

8 Feb 2010 | 10:42 am

From Archivision, this unusual architecture project is called “Fujitsubo” and is located in the area of Omote-Sando in Tokyo, one of the centers of “trend setting” in matters of buildings and design. The construction has three openings in the deck leading natural light into the interior, which is carried through open light shafts between floors to bring light to the lower inner levels. The external pyramids are the main external pillars that help guiding the light. The house also sends a message. In an urban world, filled with sky-scrapers and conventional energy…

Articles Feed - Dwell
Dwell Reports » Seal of Approval

Sarah Rich

9 Feb 2010 | 8:39 am

by Sarah RichPacked-up leftovers and stacked-up pantries are rarely the pride of the kitchen, but hiding them out of sight puts perishables precariously out of mind. A display-worthy set of design-smart containers is a decidedly fresher solution.
Product Spotlight » Kiosk's Groundhog Collection

Sarah Rich

8 Feb 2010 | 3:00 pm

by Sarah RichIt's been a couple of days since the groundhog saw his shadow, but at Kiosk, it's Groundhog Day for a little bit longer. The poster store of eclectic collections assembled a special (and international) one for this lowly holiday, each object referencing nature in some [often tongue-in-cheek] way.
My House » Bringing It All Back Home

William Lamb

8 Feb 2010 | 2:54 pm

by William LambRelying on local materials, local craftsmen, and the land her family has farmed for over two centuries, a New Yorker rediscovers her Midwestern roots.
Event Spotlight » SFMoMA 75th Anniversary Show

Miyoko Ohtake

8 Feb 2010 | 12:01 pm

by Miyoko OhtakeThough the iconic Mario Botta building that houses the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has only graced the city's South of Market neighborhood since 1995, the museum itself has brought modern and contemporary art to the West Coast since 1935. To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the SFMoMA has filled its floors with 75 Years of Looking Forward, a fantastic exhibition comprising six shows that feature six views--backward- and forward-looking and more--of the museum's history and future. The shows are on display through May 23, 2010--and some longer. If you can't make it to the…
My House » Surfer's Turf

Paul Young

8 Feb 2010 | 11:01 am

style saves the world
The World's Preppiest Forest

15 Jan 2010 | 1:21 pm

Hey, you, Chippie Von Hamptons, III! I bet you thought going green meant giving up your prepster uniform of pearls and polos, didn't you? Well, my dahling friend Lily Pulitzer begs to differ. Now through 2/28/10 -- in other words, just in time for that St. Barths trip you've lined up -- Lily P. and American Forests will plant a tree for every Pulitzer polo purchased at any boutique or online! Go on, girl: Pop that lime green collar.
Animal Friendly, To Boot! 20% Off!

7 Dec 2009 | 5:08 pm

'Tis the season! For boots, naturally. Kick leather (and cold) to the curb with these supercute styles from NeuAura, a shoe company that steers clear of all animal products. I am loving the rich brown color combo on the riding boot above. And what's not to crave about the sexy yet comfy heel on the boot below? Delish.Back by popular demand, some Style Math:Boots + your favorite jeans + an organic cotton tee + an oversized tie-waist sweater in winter white + dangly hammered metal earrings = the perfect outfit for a date night of fireside smooches and spiked hot cocoa.Need more incentive? Like…
Cheap & Chic: Zoe & Zac Ballet Flats

16 Nov 2009 | 9:10 am

Who says going green means spending big bucks? For under $30/pair, these Zoe & Zac flats are adorable and affordable! Made of faux suede, organic cotton, and recycled rubber, I think they'd look especially sweet paired with an oversized cowl-neck sweater and some pencil jeans.
Stuff I Dig! Felt Brooches from Digs.com

2 Nov 2009 | 12:12 pm

I have no idea how I went so many years without knowing about Digs.com, but now that I know, I've resigned myself to the fact that I will now spend countless hours of my life admiring page after page of the site's delightful, sustainably produced goodies.My favorite of all of the Digs loot? Their high-style collection of recycled, Fair Trade felt brooches. Sure, the word brooch is super funny, but the look? Seriously fabulous.Here's me modeling the Dahlia:
Pup Collars So Nice, They Live Life Twice!

22 Oct 2009 | 8:13 am

Has your pooch been begging for a new look lately? These WonderDog collars and leashes are sure to make him the cool pup in the park. Have a trendy pup? Go for the birdies above. A classic pooch? Check out the fauxberry below. Somewhere in the middle? Can't go wrong with stripes.Fine print: They're made with 100% recycled polyethylene webbing!

Better Living Through Design
Moonbird Table Light

katie

9 Feb 2010 | 10:39 am

Swoon. Designboom has pictures of this lamp when it first hit the scene in ‘09 (Milan Design Week) along with the designer’s quote, ‘I designed this lamp with the image of a bird perched silently under the moonlight in mind.’ An elegant thought, isn’t it? designer: Yukio Hashimoto materials: lacquered plywood; available in walnut, wengé, and natural finishes; LED lights dimensions: 4″ x 14″, height: 21.25″
Billy Book by Ikea

Simon

9 Feb 2010 | 6:12 am

Ikea is celebrating 30 years of Billy with a a series of special events, sales, limited edition custom printed bookcases, and this book, a visual history of the past 30 years of the now gold standard for inexpensive bookcases. I’ve only found it online on their international site, so if anyone has seen available in the states please leave a comment. Bonus! Here’s some interesting facts for you all: -The Billy Bookcase was created by Gillis Lundgren 1979, the fourth employee for Ikea. -The factory where the bookcases are made knocks out 15 Billys a minute; 3.1 million a year.
Ladyslipper Terrarium

katie

9 Feb 2010 | 5:52 am

Oh my, have you seen this? Found while perusing images for the lítill terrarium, this glass box is crazy elegant. Finely crafted indeed at $9,500.00. Ouch. Lindsey Taylor Design and Atlas Industries introduce ‘ladyslipper’, the first in a new line of terrariums, to be called the Wardian Case collection. In this collaboration, Taylor and Atlas seek to recapture the flavor of the Victorian Wardian case, forerunner of the modern terrarium, as both a finely crafted piece of furniture, and a piece of living art, an object of fantasy and wonder. ladyslipper presents a lush environment,…
Metal Heart with Spheric Sound

katie

9 Feb 2010 | 4:39 am

This metal heart ‘emits a soft spheric’ sound so that when you’re crying yourself to sleep on Valentine’s Day you’ll have some comfort. Just kidding. Forgo those lame boring valentine’s gifts (roses, candy, blah) for this little gift, because it’ll last a heck of a lot longer and it looks waaay better than any red/pink-plastic/cellophane-stuffed-bear/basket type of thing. Pair it with a sentimental note and you’re done*. If you’re still looking for a gift, by the way, you can always take a gander at our Gift Guide. It’s chockfull of…
Oktavilla / Elding Oscarson

katie

9 Feb 2010 | 3:24 am

Magazines as wall material! Such a great idea. Check out the rest of the project via ArchDaily. “Besides having a literal relevance to the client’s business, the wall made of stacked bundles of magazines is not only a natural conversation piece in its mere irrationality, but also works as an acoustical absorbent.” -ArchDaily Architect: Elding Oscarson

materialicious
STICK-POP PORTABLE PRINTER

Abitare

9 Feb 2010 | 9:16 am
fucking colourfull

confused-direction

9 Feb 2010 | 9:16 am
Help Remedies

Abitare

9 Feb 2010 | 9:15 am
Tarantino Tribute Posters

Dart

9 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am
Essences, a concrete/wood bench by a&ré design

a&ré design

9 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am

Home Decorating
Appreciating The Little Things in Life

8 Feb 2010 | 5:54 pm

Have you ever find yourself so wrapped up in the mundane tasks of life that you don't stop and smell the roses? We do. All the time. To the point where we stop enjoying life sometimes.That's why we found this blog, One Thousand Awesome Things, so refreshing. It blogs about little things in life that make it so awesome. Here's a partial list:■#1000 Broccoflower■#999 That last, crumby triangle in a bag of potato chips■#998 Getting grass stains■#997 Locking people out of the car and pretending to drive away■#996 Opening and sniffing a pack of tennis balls■#995 Finding money you…
Cool Leather Sectional

8 Feb 2010 | 5:36 pm

We were perusing through our old copies of Metropolitan Home today--oh man we miss that magazine!Anyway, as we were looking through the pictures we were struck with how many clean-lined, cool living room scenes we find in Met Home. We thought this leather sectional fits in really well with that look, don't you?The sectional is made by Moroni. We love this line. The leather is so supple and soft and comfortable. The construction is really nice too, firm but not too firm...Just the way it supposed to be.You can find the sectional here. It costs about $5K including…
Floral Crystal Chandelier

7 Feb 2010 | 7:29 pm

We're loving this floral chandelier from DK Living. It is made of several clear glass florets attached together to form a sphere chandelier. We saw it in person at the Las Vegas show and we thought, whoa, it looks so much better in person. We can see it in a powder room or an entry way, perhaps? The chandelier is priced at $1025 including shipping. The diameter is 27.5" and it weights approximately 55 lbs. You can find more info here.
Creative Wall Stickers

6 Feb 2010 | 5:55 pm

We found Simple Shape via LA Times today. The company makes quote wall stickers that are peelable. Filled with inspirational quotes, it'll be a cool thing for your office or library. or wherever you need some inspirations...The stickers are $18.99 and can be bought on the company's Etsy store.
Fabulous Bookcase from Tema

5 Feb 2010 | 10:12 pm

We are loving this bookcase from Tema. It's huge (75" tall, 120" wide) and it's so cool-looking. It comes only in pure white. Because of the size, we thought it would be great if you have a large wall that you need to fill-- like in a loft perhaps?Sorry for the quality of the picture, we coudn't get a larger image from the manufacturer.But here's the catch, you have to assemble it. If you are handy, it should be no problem at all as it comes with detailed assembly instructions. If you are not, well, we recommend hiring a really good handyman.Most…

dornob
Secret Rooms: Cool New Condo Hidden in Old Townhouse

d0rn0b

9 Feb 2010 | 8:00 am

[ Filed under Conversions or in the Architecture category ] Classic collides with contemporary and historic meets modern under the roof of one unbelievably cool townhouse property – part infill project, part retrofit, part adaptive reuse, this is a dream space with secret rooms for people who love cozy remodeled lofts and private luxury interiors all at the same time. Beneath pealing paint and crumbling red bricks on the front of his history row-house facade lies an incredible residence, reinforced with stunning steel supports and remodeled inside and out with modern materials,…
Furniture Arts, or: the Fine Art of Faux-Unique Furniture

d0rn0b

8 Feb 2010 | 2:00 pm

[ Filed under Sets & Series or in the Furniture category ] This set of strange furniture objects is designed to fit a peculiar purpose: each part is made to seem like a piece of art, or, more specifically, a one-off artwork with a functional side to it rather than a mass-produced furniture object made ready to order at little notice. From a wide-legged wooden bench with rubber-loop cushions to a curved-wood chair and fiberglass lounger, each work by Aaron Asedo does a remarkable job of looking as much like a singular sculpture as the start of a furniture line. Design is in the details:…
The Ice House: Crazy Crystal-Covered, Fully-Frozen Home

d0rn0b

8 Feb 2010 | 8:00 am

[ Filed under More or in the Installation Art category ] What happens when you take one of over 20,000 abandoned homes in Detroit and call attention to it in the middle of winter … by pouring gallon after gallon of water over the roof until it is covered from top to bottom – windows, walls, plants and all – with ice? For one thing, the resulting crystals are incredible – unique frozen snowflakes, but super-sized and surrounding every square inch of this installation art project. Moreover, making this structure melt-proof during the day is tougher than you might…
Happy Pills!? Sweet Happiness in Sugar-Pill Supplements

d0rn0b

7 Feb 2010 | 2:00 pm

[ Filed under More or in the Industrial Design category ] Feeling depressed? Try a sugar pill! No, not the placebo kind – the real deal street drug of choice for children and sweet-toothed adults alike. Forget natural vitamins or herbal remedies: head straight for the colorful ‘drug’ shelf at the local shop when you are feeling down, take two (or three or four) and skip calling the doctor in the morning. Yes, Happy Pills is now not only a popular song (with depressing lyrics), an addictive web game and a common phrasing for anti-depressant drugs, it is also now a…
Reclaimed Wood Furniture Cut Out of Old Bowling Lanes

d0rn0b

7 Feb 2010 | 8:00 am

[ Filed under Recycled or in the Furniture category ] Bowling lanes are built to last – but their creators probably never have this kind of creative reuse in mind. Demolition on the way, someone clever thought to recycle these rather stylish sport floors into home furniture objects that may be right up your alley. Beams and other wooden structural supports are also fair game. Created of a thick boards stacked vertically and packed closely, these area bit like classic car decking – made to hold up under serious weight, wear and tear over years of daily use. In short: do not worry…

Carolina Eclectic Interior Design Blog
What Would You Do?

8 Feb 2010 | 9:44 am

Hypothetical situation...Lets say one day someone walked up to you and said, "Hello, I'm going to give you your dream home. Just tell me what you want." Would you know what to say? I mean we often think we know what we want, but do we really know? (Yes, I do believe this might happen to me someday; so I think about it a lot). Well, I think I found a very good blueprint for what I would like to have. Check out this gorgeous Dallas home!They say a kitchen is the most important room in a house, but I find its usually my least favorite. For one, I'm not much of a cook but also because kitchens…
A Gentle Beckoning?

28 Jan 2010 | 8:22 am

Is someone trying to tell me something? I've been lacking anything to say and desire to be very creative....it just hasn't been working for me. Something funny has been happening though, everywhere I look; I see lovely camera related details. So many pretties that I would love to have! First, I fell in love with this classic preppy looking camera strap. So awesome! Next, I found a classic camera bag by Leica, while reading through Lucky magazine. There aren't many things I love more than beautiful stitching in leather. Does that sound crazy? I just think its such a beautiful detail!On…
I Needed This!

21 Jan 2010 | 6:23 pm

I need all the laughs I can get lately. Since last week I have been laughing at "Pants on the Ground", along w/ a lot of America, but now Jimmy Fallon takes it to another level.I love it!
Thank You, Thank You!

18 Jan 2010 | 7:41 am

Photo via WTL PhotosI wanted to thank all of you for your words of encouragement and for your prayers after my dad's passing. We are back home and working on moving forward. I'm going to admit that I'm not feeling overly creative right now. Mostly, I'm trying to keep moving one step at a time. I'm also trying to catch up on everything I've been neglecting for the last few weeks. So, for now; I don't have much to say. Thankfully, I'm slowly starting to see the light again.Thanks againCarolina
Total Freedom

11 Jan 2010 | 6:51 pm

Today my Daddy found freedom from his tortured body. Despite our sadness, we are thankful that he is finally at peace. Now I keep wondering what a daddy's girl is supposed to do when her daddy is gone. My Papi was the original eccentric I loved. Growing up in Mexico he was known in his town as "El Loco" (The crazy one) because he had the most unusual ideas and point of view. When I was a kid, I didn't always understand what motivated him, but as I grow older I find I am more and more like him. In fact, he is one of my main creative inspirations. He was a true individual. He was honest and…

Christy's Thrifty Decorating
New Type of Effusion Lamp wicks!

30 Jan 2010 | 4:28 pm

If you read this blog on a regular basis, I'm sure you must be thinking that I dropped off the face of the earth. Actually, I'm still here and working on a number of projects. I've spent most of the past month trying to get organized-a never ending project in itself. FYI-I'm still not organized and probably will never be, but I do try.I've been writing this blog now for several years and the most common email I get is always about effusion lamps. I know why-they can be tricky. The wicks burn out, clog up or the scent doesn't smell up the house, etc, etc. I've done so much research on these…
Christmas Backdrop

24 Dec 2009 | 12:43 pm

A unique way to change how your furniture looks at Christmas. How about changing the background of shelves or behind wall units? Initially the work takes some time, but once it's all done you can store it and pull it out the next year. You can change it up easily, year to year. Here is the cabinet that I'm going to create a new background for. A few years ago I cut and placed matchstick blinds behind the cabinet to give it a different look. For Christmas I'm giving them a real seasonal look.I use thin, luan wood for each section. Measuring is key, of coarse and I learned that the hard way. I…
Recovering An Old Chair Pillow

12 Dec 2009 | 6:44 pm

This particular chair I got off the sidewalk in front of Pier 1 Imports a few years ago. It was only slightly damaged and seemed simple enough to touch up with some paint, which is what I did when I got it home. I paid $69.00 dollars for it, which I knew was a real bargain.A few years have passed and now the white pillow is getting worn out and just crappy looking. Time to recover that chair seat. Now, what's the best way to go about it? Carefully take the pillow seams apart and disassemble the fabric, piece by piece. This creates a template for your new cover. Below you can see the pieces…
Christmas Scents for the effusion lamp

7 Dec 2009 | 4:05 pm

I'm currently burning two delightful scents that are combined, in my effusion lamp. This one is just perfect for the holidays. All my scents were purchased at Brambleberry.comRecipe:1/2 ounce of Christmas Tree1/2 ounce of Apple Jack Peel1 ounce of distilled waterThe rest of the bottle (16 oz) is filled with 91% Isopropyl alcoholThe combination of these scents are perfect for the holiday. I've burned "Christmas Tree" alone and it is just like the real thing. That certainly helps if you have an artificial tree like I do. The addition of the apple jack peel adds flavors of cinnamon and apple.I…
It's the little things that count

29 Nov 2009 | 5:23 pm

A couple of months ago I bought this little garlic storage thingy at Goodwill. It's made of terra cotta and I'm pretty sure it's for baking garlic in the oven.Pictured below:I don't bake garlic, or at least I never have done so I opted to paint it. I used metallic acrylics which I have a collection of. These paints, available at crafts stores are so pretty and priced cheap enough so you can buy plenty.When it was done I sprayed it with extra glossy clear spray sealer. For 99 cents, it's now pretty cute and I'll use it to store garlic in.I always manage to find little gems in the Goodwill that…

The Kitchen Designer
Kitchen Details

Susan Serra, CKD

7 Feb 2010 | 12:20 pm

Here are a few things that you maybe interested in from my travels around the web recently! Thom Filicia & Me First, my interview for Amana with Thom Filicia on kitchen trends. An interviewer asked questions of Thom and me on a variety of topics. I don't think there is anything that I disagreed with in Thom's answers. He is quite passionate about the importance of the kitchen in today's homes. See 2010 Trends Here are some recent ideabooks I put together and share some tips, on Houzz: Where To Put The Microwave? 14 TipsHouzz- Kitchen Design, Bathroom Design and…
A Kitchen Design Blog

Susan Serra, CKD

5 Feb 2010 | 4:09 am

It's three years today since I made my first entry in this blog! Holding a favorite Scandinavian plate in my kitchen from the island of BornholmMy initial thinking was that I finally had an outlet to talk about, really, to share, my 20+ years of experience as a business owner and Certified Kitchen Designer in nearly ALL types of kitchen design...super luxe high end to builders' condos, all different styles and themes, and kitchens in shades of (environmentally) green. I have lots of experience to draw from, knowledge gained from many sources, hopefully presented with a helpful…
Delta Pilar Faucet - Touch20 Technology

Susan Serra, CKD

2 Feb 2010 | 3:36 am

About a month ago, I was asked to review the Delta Pilar Faucet with Touch20 technology and provided the product by Delta. I knew this might be a perfect product for my son Independent Product Analyst to test in my apartment in Manhattan Independent Product Testing Laboratory. Review aside, do you know what the chances are to get your college kid to return an email, let alone write about a piece of his life on his mom's blog? Reading his review (it was sent to me at 3 am-no surprise there) gave me much insight into features, benefits, and new, learned, behaviors surrounding this faucet…
AutoKitchen Kitchen Design Software

Susan Serra, CKD

15 Jan 2010 | 12:17 pm

A little bit of shop talk here, but I'm happy to share news of this new kitchen design software and technology that I am using. I'm excited to debut and share information on my new kitchen software with you. It's called AutoKitchen and it's truly state of the art! The AutoKitchen representative, knowing that I am a working designer, offered to provide me with a copy of AutoKitchen software to review and to use in my practice, gratis. I already was using design software, but having recently upgraded my software and being disappointed in the quality of the renderings at the highest level of…
Electrolux and More...

Susan Serra, CKD

10 Jan 2010 | 4:26 pm

Electrolux Kitchen Stories I want to show you kitchen stories - 89 of them to be exact, courtesy of Electrolux, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. SO...these 89 people with stories are all "kitchen stars", but Electrolux needs just one more to reach 90 - will that be you? I'm crazy about this concept and find it absolutely fascinating looking at all these (real) kitchen stories from all over the world! You can be the 90th kitchen star! To enter, you must have an Electrolux appliance, even a small countertop or small vacuum appliance is ok. I don't love that requirement, but…

Kitchen Design Notes
Enter to win up to $5,000 in our Reader Remodel Contest

26 Jan 2010 | 8:28 am

Enter to win up to $5,000 in a Reader Remodel ContestThis Old House is Looking for the Best Reader Remodels Do you have a great "before and after" project? Here is your chance to win back some of that heard spent money by entering your project into a contest. Here is what they want: "Show us your before and after photos and tell us your remodel story. You might appear in the pages of This Old House magazine." Go to their website to enter your project by clicking this link. It's as simple as uploading photos of your before-and-afters for a chance to take home the prize and be featured in…
Residential Kitchens can be Functional

25 Jan 2010 | 7:13 am

There was a commentary from an author at another blog, Dog Walk Blog, citing that home kitchens are not functional; looking more like living rooms with furniture than places to prepare food. I am not certain if the author, Charlie, is (a) just being cheeky, (b) disagreeable in general, (c) was not part of the process when his kitchen was built, or (d) just irritated that it was his turn to cook breakfast. I'll assume (d). While I am in agreement with his opinion of HGTV's over saturation of also ran "me too" shows showing kitchen after kitchen topped with granite counters, I beg to disagree…
Consumers Report: News from the 2010 International Builders Show

21 Jan 2010 | 8:21 pm

Here is a terrific invention for taking additional security measures while remodeling. Consumer Reports the following: "Schlage has unveiled an improved rekeying process for its SecureKey door locks, which is designed to let you safely grant temporary access to guests or contractors without having to change the lock afterward." For the full article, please click on the link below the video.Schlage Secure Key
Interior and Paint Color Trends 2010 by artist Linda Paul

9 Jan 2010 | 8:29 pm

This year I would like to open up the blog with guest contributors, talented artisans and experts that are only too generous to share their expertise, knowledge and design ideas from their point of view. To get the conversation started, I am delighted to introduce Linda Paul, an internationally recognized American Artist and owner of Linda Paul Studio in Colorado. Without further ado, I welcome Linda as a guest contributor to Kitchen Design Notes. As an artist I am profoundly influenced by color and culture. I love studying color trends and am always…
Fully Automated Cabinets

7 Jan 2010 | 7:50 am

Just when I thought I have seen everything, the latest innovations in kitchen automation never ceases to amaze me. Anvil Cabinet and Mill, a long time leading provider of custom cabinetry, recently launched Anvil Motion, the world's first fully automated cabinetry system. For centuries, cabinets have opened with a hinged, swinging motion.Not so with Anvil Motion’s patent-pending technology, the first system with doors and panels that open on command. Simply wave your hand and cabinet panels and doors rise and fall vertically with precision, concealing or revealing contents.

::Surroundings::
Linda's Kitchen: Photoshoot sneak peak

9 Feb 2010 | 9:51 am

Yesterday was an exciting day here in my kitchen in that I did the final photo shoot with Michael J Lee. It's going to take a few days before I get all the final photos back, but wanted to share a sneak peak of the photo shoot, a little of the set up and one of the final images.I took the photo above on Sunday evening as I was cleaning and prepping the room. Michael had done a site visit a week ago so he could view the space and give me his assessment of the shots to be taken and so we could brainstorm about the styling. I had ideas, Michael had better ones. He's not only a fantastic…
Cast Your Vote for the Academy Award® for Achievement in Art Direction

7 Feb 2010 | 9:16 am

Click here to read more and to cast your vote! Subscribe to ::Surroundings::
The Real McCoy: An ode to my cookie jar

2 Feb 2010 | 10:54 pm

via Ebay - starting bid $39.99For my fourth birthday, my best friend and next door neighbor Patty Zimmerman (who was three) gave me this very cute Humpty Dumpty cookie jar. This became our family cookie jar, gracing our kitchen through many moves and houses. Although it was technically mine, I didn't have free reign of the cookies inside, sadly. However, I did master the ninja art of silently removing and replacing the lid in pursuit of a purloined cookie or two. It took a steady hand and steely nerve with my sharp-eared Mother sitting in the next room. It was quite a…
Decorative Arts through history: Mosaic Tiles

30 Jan 2010 | 11:09 pm

Irano-Roman floor mosaic detail from the palace of Shapur I at Bishapur.Mosaic designs have long been a staple of the decorative arts and as an art form, are held in high regard. Mosaics are made of small, usually square, pieces of glass, stone, shells or other material that are placed in such a way as to create and pattern or a picture. Dating back to Roman times and before, mosaics have been used the world over to cover everything from walls, to ceilings and floors. Floor pavement representing female dancers. Marble mosaic, ca. 260 AD (Sasanian Era). From the iwan of the…
Wednesday This and That

27 Jan 2010 | 7:20 am

A big thank you to Gwen Driscoll of Ragland Hill Social for featuring me in her ongoing series It's A Small Blogworld today. I am so flattered to be included with other bloggers such as Brooke Gianetti of Velvet & Linen and Laurie Schroeder of My Domicile Style, two of her past features. Gwen is relatively new to blogging, but has taken to it like a duck to water, so to speak, and is coming up with new and unique features all the time - something not easy with all the design blogs out there! Her latest projects FDO (Friends of Design Obsession) and Week in White are just two…

AbbeyK — On Interior Design
Antique Rug Shopping in NYC -- Doris Leslie Blau

Abbey Koplovitz

2 Feb 2010 | 5:29 am

We continue on the pursuit for antique Persian rugs for one of my projects. Options get limited locally. Boston is a small pond. So, with a family visit planned to my sister in Manhattan, I tacked on a few days to do some work while in the city. I brought my 8-year-old niece, Jasmine, along for the first annual, "take your niece to work day." Here is one of the rugs we looked at, an antique Sultanabad.First stop, Doris Leslie Blau. Muffie Cunningham, was great to work with and so sweet to my niece. We have mostly been considering blue/red Persians, but my client asked to see some…
House Plants for Northern Exposure

Abbey Koplovitz

30 Jan 2010 | 7:03 am

A day doesn't go by without getting a question whose answer I either don't know or only partially know. It's the fun of this business -- Constant learning. I am perfectly comfortable with saying: "I don't know but I can find out." I also like learning new fun facts. Today I learned that the figure in wood that makes an arched/pointy shape is called a "cathedral." You can see an example below. PS. More terms about wood veneer can be found at Joewoodworker.com. That's where I found the image, too.Same week, different question. Yesterday, a…
Antique Persian Rugs, What's Not to Like?

Abbey Koplovitz

24 Jan 2010 | 5:31 am

Working with Landry & Arcari on a rug project. We are focusing on Antique Persian Rugs of the stunning variety.We brought many rugs to the house for the first viewing. We need rugs for the study, living room, dining room, entry, hall, office, and maybe master bedroom. These rugs are great in real life, but for some reason, the more beautiful the rug, the worse it looks on screen. Some of the subtly of color and pattern is lost for some reason. Once you identify what you like in the shop, then you have to identify what looks good in the space. The dining room rug we loved on site…
Art by Amy Ross avail at Urban Outfitters

Abbey Koplovitz

22 Jan 2010 | 6:12 am

Who said art cannot be affordable? My friend and former client, Amy Ross, has a great piece of art at Urban.Unfortunately, there's no picture to link to, so you'll just have to click here.Congrats, Amy for this wonderful business opportunity. I hope you sell tons!
So Sad about Haiti

Abbey Koplovitz

13 Jan 2010 | 8:12 pm

What does your home mean to you? Are you a decorator? An aspiring designer? Someone who just likes design and beautiful homes? As a professional designer what I do for clients and what I do for myself are different things. There's always that schism. Part has to do with budget, another with personal taste and still another with my challenge making decisions for my self. A recent first-time home owner, It's been stressful for me to make decisions and I know, I know -- I have been whiny about my inability to pick a fabric for a new sofa bed I plan to purchase.But tonight, with the…

Furniture Fashion
Water Proof Pool Tables for your Pool

Will

9 Feb 2010 | 8:59 am

This is taking Pool Table to the next level. Yes this is a water proof pool table that you and your guests can play while relaxing and cooling off out back in the pool. Each table is custom produced and professionally installed and certain needs like depth and leveling are considered. Production time appx. 4 weeks Prices start at $6500 from Opulent Items Post from Water Proof Pool Tables for your Pool
Truffle Accent Chairs - a Soft Decorating Touch

John

9 Feb 2010 | 2:00 am

Truffle accent chairs are intended to add a soft decorating touch to a living room, bedroom or den in a house. This product is available in white, black and spring green. The chairs are made of a thermoplastic material that gives the appearance of finely woven wicker. The product is suited for outdoor use. More information: here. Post from Truffle Accent Chairs - a Soft Decorating Touch
Dounyasha Lounge Chair Concept by Dima Loginoff

Will

8 Feb 2010 | 6:23 pm

Designer Dima Loginoff's work has been featured here on Furniture Fashion in the past and we love his work for its expressive visuals that are far outside the box as they say. The Russian born visionary who was nominated as Young Designer of the Year at the Elle Décor International Design Awards 2010 offers yet another creation that has not been put into production yet but it is sure fun to look at. Here is the "Dounyasha" Lounge Chair Concept that has a striking silhouette. See the rest of Loginoff's furniture designs here. Post from Dounyasha Lounge Chair Concept by Dima Loginoff
Couch Loveseat from Capdell Sillala Furniture

John

8 Feb 2010 | 1:00 pm

Here is the Elizabetha couch loveseat that features a great fabric pattern that is sure to add pizzazz to any room. At first appearance its slim profile makes it the opposite of "bulky" which can be hard to find when furniture shopping today. The backrest does not have to be filled out depending on personal preference. In the model where it is not filled out, it looks like a pair of eyeglasses makes up the backrest and couch loveseat arms. This product is available at Capdell Sillala Furniture here. Post from Couch Loveseat from Capdell Sillala Furniture
QNCC Qatar National Convention Center to Open 2011

Will

8 Feb 2010 | 8:29 am

It is nice to see that designers creating large building projects like the Qatar National Convention Center QNCC by Yamasaki Architects of Japan are focusing their collective talents on ecologically conscious buildings. The QNCC to open in 2011 will be the first to have the label of a Gold Certification of U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED). Among the state of the art visuals will be all the amenities of a world class convention center within its 177,000 sq meters space. The projects total energy consumption will be supplied in part by 3,600 sq…

The Decorating Diva LLC
Irwin Feld Design

Editor The Decorating Diva.com

9 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

Photo: From left to right: Sculptura Standing Floor Lamp (1960s) – newly lacquered in white; “Percussion” painting (1960) by George Ratkai; Mid Century Bench (1960s) – newly upholstered with recessed polished stainless steel legs; and Lucite Hanging Fixture (1960s). Photo: Pair of Glass Rod Mid-Century Sconces (1961) ; “Man and Woman” painting (1960) by George Ratkai [...] No related posts.
Kerry Ann Dame of Posh Living LLC

Editor The Decorating Diva.com

8 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

Kerry Ann Dame’s twenty year interior design career was launched in a spectacular fashion – working under the tutelage of design doyenne Lynn von Kersting at her renowned design firm Indigo Seas in Los Angeles, California. While at Indigo Seas, Kerry Ann, worked on various design projects for clients ranging from studio executives to [...] No related posts.
Bouncy, Flouncy, Ruffles Create Big Style

Editor The Decorating Diva.com

7 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

{ FASHION INSPIRATION } Stella Summer 2010 { DIVINE DESIGN } Peacock Chairs by Studio Dror for Cappellini Images copyright of respective owners. No related posts. No related posts.
EJ Interiors

Editor The Decorating Diva.com

6 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

INTERIOR DESIGN PORTFOLIO GALLERY { EJ Interiors } Photo: Master Bedroom For the design of this master bedroom, I wanted to create the feeling of a tranquil retreat. I decided to mix traditional dark wood furniture with sleek, modern pieces, for a nice unexpected contrast. [...] No related posts.
The Arts { Style & Design Best of the Web Feb. 5, 2010 }

Editor The Decorating Diva.com

5 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

Artists and Muralist Regina Garay journals her many faux finishing, mural and interior design projects at her fabulous blog, Fauxology. Join Regina on Facebook or follow Fauxology on Twitter. J. Alexander Fine Woodworking is the website of, woodworker and artist, Jared Patchin. His “Bug Table” (photo: shown in bottom middle above) custom designed table [...] No related posts.

Interior Design Blog
Feb 5, Eco Press - Holisitic homes in print

5 Feb 2010 | 6:26 am

Eco Press - View the article portfolio of Earth Balance Interiors, bringing sustainable living and green design to Ireland.
Feb 5, Ebook Interior Design - The essential guide to home layout design

5 Feb 2010 | 3:53 am

Ebook Interior Design - Discover Interior Design Secrets with 'Space Planning for Homes'
Dec 26, Feng Shui design Ireland - The true meaning of this ancient practice.

26 Dec 2009 | 10:58 am

Feng Shui design Ireland - The meaning of classical Feng Shui for homes & places of work.
Dec 17, Recycled leather tiles - The natural alternative floor and wall covering

17 Dec 2009 | 9:55 am

Recycled leather tiles - Natural, warm, recycled flooring alternative to synthetic materials
Dec 17, Natural carpet backing - Eco materials & their characteristics

17 Dec 2009 | 9:54 am

Natural carpet backing - An eco analysis of natural and synthetic floor backings

Interior Design News
Interior design contracting projects in GCC hit USD 22 bn, boosting demand for flooring solutions

9 Feb 2010 | 3:51 am

WAM Dubai, 9th Feb. 2010 -- DOMOTEX Middle East, the only international trade fair for carpets and floor coverings in the MENA region, has revealed that the UAE remains a vital growth market for exhibitors of the upcoming trade event as the country accounts for up to two-thirds of an estimated USD 22 billion worth of interior design contracting ...
Interior design news & notes: Top flight design; 10 ideas to spiff up ...

8 Feb 2010 | 3:00 pm

Bulgarian designer Alexander Christoff's take on comfort. Try on this for size: Tired of your lumpy, old-school sofa? This F1-themed lounge chair designed by Bulgarian interior designer Alexander Christoff just might be the answer to your comfort and aesthetic needs.
San Jose interior designera s fast turnaround lands her, brokers business

8 Feb 2010 | 1:33 am

Arc Tec Partner Marci Iverson said current trends include more cubicles and workstations instead of offices, and office perks like coffee bars.
Tropicalia treasures: Interior designer's 'stash' for sale

7 Feb 2010 | 2:38 pm

Nobody navigates the interior design universe like a smart designer and Karen Benson, ASID, is one of the best.
Victorian Style Interior Design Ideas

7 Feb 2010 | 6:22 am

With wealth and security inevitably come a profusion of styles and an irresistible temptation to go over the top: a broad statement, but one borne out by history.

Interior Design Newswire
Art Gallery of Alberta Opens in Canada

7 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

The Edmonton museum's $88 million renovation by Los Angeles-based architect Randall Stout follows 10 years of planning and three years of construction.
Pure Village Premieres at IMM Cologne

7 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

The exhibition concept for furniture, fabrics, lighting, and bathroom products at the annual German furnishings fair proved a success in its inaugural year, selling out its hall at the Cologne Exhibition Centre.
Vote to Help Fund Studio H, a New Design/Build High School Program

4 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

Project H Design, a humanitarian design nonprofit founded by Emily Pilloton, is in the running for a $50,000 Pepsi Refresh grant to launch Studio H, a high school design and vocation program in Bertie County, North Carolina.
Calling All Entries For AIA/LA's Restaurant Design Awards

3 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

The Los Angeles chapter of the American Institute of Architects is now accepting submissions for their sixth annual competition honoring excellence in restaurant design.
M2L Kicks Off Genuine Design Competition

3 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

The modern furniture distributor is raising awareness about knockoffs by awarding scholorships of $8,500 to four student finalists in its second annual contest.

This Old House: Kitchen And Bath
Attic Becomes A Suite Retreat Upstairs

7 Feb 2010 | 9:15 am

Untapped space tucked under the roof becomes a light-filled bedroom, bath, and home office
All About Stone Countertops

4 Feb 2010 | 9:20 am

Nothing elevates the appearance of a kitchen like a handsome, hard-wearing slab of stone. The experts at This Old House explain how to find a quarried countertop that suits your home, your budget, and your cooking style
Buy a Vintage-Look Dresser Vanity

3 Feb 2010 | 9:10 am

Check out these seven classic beauties
Basement Bonus Rooms

29 Jan 2010 | 9:05 am

16 smart ways to turn dead space into a comfy place for unwinding, entertaining, and working
Best Kitchen Before and Afters 2009

28 Jan 2010 | 9:10 am

You submitted thousands of remodels to us. Then you voted on your favorites. Here are some of your top picks and ours

Material Girls Blog
Shoe to Space

Lauren - Houston

9 Feb 2010 | 4:02 am

{Cynthia Rowley for Roxy Wedges} When I spotted these kaleidoscope wedges by Cynthia Rowley in the latest Lucky, I knew I had to find a room to match! I think this room by Eileen Kathryn Boyd hits the mark with its bold color, graphic pattern, and geometric accents. Now we just have to wait until April for Rowley’s line for Roxy to launch… {Eileen Kathryn Boyd for the 2009 Kips Bay Show House}
From the Land Down Under…

Jill - LA

8 Feb 2010 | 6:02 pm

…comes a beautiful selection of bedding that are all made of natural fibers and kind to the earth. The company happens to be called “lazybones” from Australia. I was fortunate to have been introduced to these lovely quilts and duvets through a client of mine. It just so happens that I am currently working on a work/live loft space for an Australian who represents the line in the states through her showroom the “Rose Showroom.” Tracy Hocking is the owner and designer for lazybones. Her love of clothing and fabric design from the 1920’s-1950’s has…
Readers’ Design Dilemmas- Solved! Part I

Emily - Dallas

8 Feb 2010 | 9:00 am

Back in November, we hosted a giveaway for Elaine Griffin’s book, Design Rules. In order to enter, participants were asked to pose a design question in the comments portion of the post- a question that they had always wanted to know the answer to. We ended up receiving sixty one awesome questions and Elaine, herself, will be answering each and every one of them! Elaine sent me the first batch of her answers tonight and I’m so excited to post them! I loved reading her responses. You can tell through her answers how enthusiastic she is about design. This woman surely loves…
Villa Blanca in Beverly Hills

Jill - LA

7 Feb 2010 | 10:27 pm

If you haven’t already heard of Villa Blanca Restaurant, you may soon start hearing a lot more about this restaurant located in Beverly Hills. The owners are Lisa Vanderpump Todd and her husband, Ken Todd. Lisa happens to be one of the real housewives slated for the upcoming Bravo TV show, “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Not only is she a former actress and restaurateur, but she also designed the interiors of Villa Blanca. Lisa says she wanted the decor to be “sexy, white, clean, comfortable and inspired…gorgeous art, stylish furnishings and creative music…
SuperLighting!

Emily - Dallas

7 Feb 2010 | 7:28 pm

Congrats to the New Orleans Saints! In honor of their win, I’ve dedicated a post to the amazing work of New Orleans lighting designer- Julie Neill. The lighting she designs is nothing short of gorgeous! It is also no coincidence that most of the names of her lighting pieces match the names of her clients. These are pieces that she specifically custom-created for them and then added to her lighting line. {Arrow Sconce} {Sheldon Sconce} {Fleur de lis Sconce} {Mollie Chandelier} {Allyne Chandelier} {Champagne Side Tables} {Burst Coffee Table} Yesterday Julie posted a chandelier on her…

Oliveaux
Paris shopping...

7 Feb 2010 | 10:51 pm

Like any girl who visits Paris, a day or two shopping is essential and I always include a visit to the French children's boutique Bonpoint in St Germain to buy something for my daughter. Even if you do not have a little person to buy for this store is worth visiting at least once just for the building and styling alone! Just like everything in Paris, it is so gorgeous......I love the floor!Bonpoint {Photos by Oliveaux}
Back home & still thinking of Paris!

4 Feb 2010 | 3:52 pm

I have been at home for a few days now recovering from my wonderful trip and slowly getting back into the routine of the different time zone! I ended my trip in Paris where I spent time at Maison Objet and then was able to have a few days enjoying Paris....although I have visited Paris many times before, her beauty and magic never disappoints! Like all francophiles out there, I am already dreaming of my next trip!I thought I would leave you with some of the pictures I took of my trip for the weekend...I love the architecture and gardens of the 'Petit Trianon' at Versailles. One is easily…
Winter Wonderland

13 Jan 2010 | 12:15 pm

Just thought I would send you a postcard from Frankfurt. I took this photo from my hotel room this evening - the Christmas lights are still up and with all the snow around at the moment it is truly magical (and cold!)....this lovely hotel is built around the original Gothic style home which was constructed in 1904 for an influential banking family.
Au Revoir

8 Jan 2010 | 2:22 am

"Paris is always a good idea" SabrinaI have returned from our beach holiday to unpack my summer clothes and re-packed tonight for the cold European winter. I am flying to Frankfurt tomorrow!! I am then heading over to London for a few days and finally spending a week in Paris....I am so excited! I will be catching up with some of my suppliers and seeing lots of new things for Oliveaux. I shall hopefully be able to share some photo's with you along the way, so until then, au revoir.
Merry Christmas...

24 Dec 2009 | 2:20 pm

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! I love Christmas and the time we get to spend with family. We are going to my Mum & Dad's and my brothers and sisters at the beach for the next week. Included in our 'Clan' are five beautiful energetic little ones all under 4 years old, who will be eagerly waiting to open Aunty Amanda's wonderful presents (I am sure their parents will be equally as delighted with my selection!). It has been such a pleasure getting to know so many of you this year and all the great friendships made. Thank you all so much and look forward to seeing…

Most Recent Posts
Lighting: AJ Light Anniversary Edition from Louis Poulsen

julie

9 Feb 2010 | 10:00 am

Discovered via Roseland Greene (via Purple Area): the fiftieth-anniversary edition of the classic AJ Light (designed by Arne Jacobsen for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen) from Louis Poulsen, in petroleum, red, sand, yellow green, and blue green. Go to Swedish lighting supplier Svenssons Lammhuit to see the range (we checked with Louis Poulsen, the line is not currently available in the US, unfortunately).
Storage: Hook Up Hooks from Three by Three

julie

9 Feb 2010 | 8:50 am

Cheerful and utilitarian hooks from Seattle company Three by Three, makers of useful organizational items for the home (magnetic bulletin boards and strips, hooks, entry butlers, etc.). Above: The Hook Up Hook from Three by Three comes in seven colors (including white and stainless steel) and is $4. Above: The Triple Hook Up Strip is $19 at Velocity Art and Design. Above: The Spot-On Magnet Hook is available in six colors and can hold up to 5 pounds; $5 each at Velocity Art and Design.
Steal This Look: Martha Stewart Set Kitchen

janet

9 Feb 2010 | 3:15 am

I have to admit that when I walked onto the set of the Martha Stewart Show a couple of weeks ago, I was a bit star struck—not just by Martha, but also by her set kitchen, which is modeled after the one in her Bedford, New York, house. Here are a few ideas for accessorizing the look (for appliance, cookware, and countertop resources listings, go to Martha Stewart). Above: We like the open shelving, the vintage pitchers used for utentsil storage, the vintage rolling pins as decor, and the understated simple cabinet knobs. The cabinet paint is Mourning Dove Gray (MS 151) and the…
Lighting: Caleb Siemon Happy Kiss Lights

sarah

8 Feb 2010 | 1:00 pm

Santa Ana, California, might not have the same cachet as Murano, Italy, but it's where RISD grad and glass maker Caleb Siemon has made his home. Siemon, who studied in Murano under the famous glass sculptor Pino Signoretto, is renowned for his glass vases and bowls. We are particularly taken with his line of lighting, especially the Happy Kiss Lights (shown below), which emit a glowing, refracted light. Available through Lightopia. Above: Happy Kiss Light in sargasso$500. Above: Happy Kiss Light in lime, $500. Above: Thick Clear Barnacle Pendant,…
Shopper's Diary: Kerry Cassill in Laguna Beach

sarah

8 Feb 2010 | 11:45 am

Admirers of Kerry Cassill's clothing line may not be aware that her signature Indian prints are also available in a bedding line produced under the Paisley Label, available online. Southern Californians can also visit her store, Lala, in Laguna Beach. Above L: King Duvet from $365. Above R: Queen King Flatsheet, $128. Above L: Standard Pillowcases from $26. Above R: King Fitted Sheet; $144.

Apartment Therapy Main
Snow Storm Survey: Enjoying Home Time or Sick of Snow?

Rachael Grad

Last week Apartment Therapy DC readers were excited to spend time at home during the snow storm. With the schools and government offices closed again tomorrow, we're wondering if you're still enjoying the snow. Are you loving an extended home stay or feeling stuck at home? Read Full Post
Tableware Makeover: DIY Stencil Plates

Molly Anderson

Is it time to give your tableware a makeover? We aren't sure you'd want to eat off of them after, but they would look pretty charming up on the wall! This idea was published in the DIY magazine 101-woonideeen out of the Netherlands. Read Full Post
Do You Pick Paint Colors Based On Your Neighbors?

Sarah Rae Trover

Although this series of three small homes in Kansas City, Missouri could need a little yard work, we can't help but smile every time we drive by them. They feel oh so Dr. Seuss with their Red Fish-Blue Fish paint colors, but the had us wondering, do you pick exterior paint based on the homes that are close by? Read Full Post
Heller Bellini Chairs - $200Los Angeles Scavenger

Riian Kant-McCormick

It can be difficult to find reasonably priced modern looking outdoor chairs, but today we've found this set of Heller Bellini Chairs which stack neatly and are supposed to be very comfortable for only $200 for the set of four.Read Full Post
An Impressionist Bathroom ColorTherapy

Mark Chamberlain

Longtime readers of this column know that I repaint my bathroom more often than I run out for eggs. There was the French Riviera mural, the faux Chinoiserie thing; birds, fishes and on into the night. Last summer it was time again, but after fits and starts nothing took. Everything I started was awful and the project sat unfinished.Read Full Post

Hatch: The Design Public® Blog
Dream Loft Real Estate (Atlanta)

Becky

9 Feb 2010 | 9:34 am

I was dropping stuff off at the Salvation Army on the West Side of Midtown Atlanta last week (yup, my effort to avoid winding up on Hoarders continues – this was from attic crawl space number three) and I found myself completely taken by Allied Factory Lofts. As I stopped to take a picture, I noticed that one of the units was for sale. While I live in a cottage in town on a postage stamp lot, I sometimes dream of going more urban and moving into a loft. Not one of those brand new high rises that calls itself a loft building, but a true Flashdance-esque converted warehouse or factory.
Inspiration Monday: Eileen Gray

Becky

8 Feb 2010 | 11:48 am

Some of you may have been as stunned as I was when Eileen Gray’s Dragon Chair went for $28 million at the Yves Saint Laurent auction a year ago. While I find this figure rather ridiculous, I glean a lot of inspiration from my latest book acquisition, EILEEN GRAY. I’m also seeing some of the roots of Kelly Wearstler’s latest Bravura Modern phase (I’ve been trying to understand that since that Domino with her pool house in it came out). Now I am starting to see it everywhere! You are probably more familiar with the Eileen Gray side table. They use it on practically every…
DP Customer Profile: Ellen, Everett and a New “Big Boy Chair”

ali

4 Feb 2010 | 10:48 am

Name: Ellen and Everett Where do you live? Oakland, CA What do you do? Sr. Public Events Manager, UC Berkeley DP Purchase/s: Pkolino Little Reader Chair How would you describe your design style? Modern with a splash of vintage and craftsman, and a dash of romper-room for good measure If you were a crayon, what color would you be? That amazing blue that you see in the sky at the very top (which is especially visible on cloudless sunny days). Any favorite design ideas? I’ve started re-using my son’s favorite cool shirts to make into small accent pillows for the sofa in his room. Any…
DwellStudio Peacock Bedding Video

Matt

3 Feb 2010 | 7:31 am

We dropped in on the always delightful DwellStudio booth at the New York Gift Show yesterday. Here’s a preview from their soon-to-be-available Spring 2010 collection. More to come! DwellStudio Peacock Bedding at the NY Gift Show:
Architecture Informing Grammy Fashion

Becky

3 Feb 2010 | 2:32 am

I love to keep an eye on Lady Gaga’s wardrobe. She is the first person who has really kept me interested in all of her changes since Madonna. While most people would think of Glenda the Good Witch when they see this, I think of… The Bird’s Nest from the Beijing Olympics, by Herzog and de Meuron: Gaga image from who2.com. Nest image from archdaily

The Kitchen Designer
Kitchen Details

Susan Serra, CKD

7 Feb 2010 | 12:20 pm

Here are a few things that you maybe interested in from my travels around the web recently! Thom Filicia & Me First, my interview for Amana with Thom Filicia on kitchen trends. An interviewer asked questions of Thom and me on a variety of topics. I don't think there is anything that I disagreed with in Thom's answers. He is quite passionate about the importance of the kitchen in today's homes. See 2010 Trends Here are some recent ideabooks I put together and share some tips, on Houzz: Where To Put The Microwave? 14 TipsHouzz- Kitchen Design, Bathroom Design and…
A Kitchen Design Blog

Susan Serra, CKD

5 Feb 2010 | 4:09 am

It's three years today since I made my first entry in this blog! Holding a favorite Scandinavian plate in my kitchen from the island of BornholmMy initial thinking was that I finally had an outlet to talk about, really, to share, my 20+ years of experience as a business owner and Certified Kitchen Designer in nearly ALL types of kitchen design...super luxe high end to builders' condos, all different styles and themes, and kitchens in shades of (environmentally) green. I have lots of experience to draw from, knowledge gained from many sources, hopefully presented with a helpful…
Delta Pilar Faucet - Touch20 Technology

Susan Serra, CKD

2 Feb 2010 | 3:36 am

About a month ago, I was asked to review the Delta Pilar Faucet with Touch20 technology and provided the product by Delta. I knew this might be a perfect product for my son Independent Product Analyst to test in my apartment in Manhattan Independent Product Testing Laboratory. Review aside, do you know what the chances are to get your college kid to return an email, let alone write about a piece of his life on his mom's blog? Reading his review (it was sent to me at 3 am-no surprise there) gave me much insight into features, benefits, and new, learned, behaviors surrounding this faucet…
AutoKitchen Kitchen Design Software

Susan Serra, CKD

15 Jan 2010 | 12:17 pm

A little bit of shop talk here, but I'm happy to share news of this new kitchen design software and technology that I am using. I'm excited to debut and share information on my new kitchen software with you. It's called AutoKitchen and it's truly state of the art! The AutoKitchen representative, knowing that I am a working designer, offered to provide me with a copy of AutoKitchen software to review and to use in my practice, gratis. I already was using design software, but having recently upgraded my software and being disappointed in the quality of the renderings at the highest level of…
Electrolux and More...

Susan Serra, CKD

10 Jan 2010 | 4:26 pm

Electrolux Kitchen Stories I want to show you kitchen stories - 89 of them to be exact, courtesy of Electrolux, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. SO...these 89 people with stories are all "kitchen stars", but Electrolux needs just one more to reach 90 - will that be you? I'm crazy about this concept and find it absolutely fascinating looking at all these (real) kitchen stories from all over the world! You can be the 90th kitchen star! To enter, you must have an Electrolux appliance, even a small countertop or small vacuum appliance is ok. I don't love that requirement, but…

AbbeyK — On Interior Design
Antique Rug Shopping in NYC -- Doris Leslie Blau

Abbey Koplovitz

2 Feb 2010 | 5:29 am

We continue on the pursuit for antique Persian rugs for one of my projects. Options get limited locally. Boston is a small pond. So, with a family visit planned to my sister in Manhattan, I tacked on a few days to do some work while in the city. I brought my 8-year-old niece, Jasmine, along for the first annual, "take your niece to work day." Here is one of the rugs we looked at, an antique Sultanabad.First stop, Doris Leslie Blau. Muffie Cunningham, was great to work with and so sweet to my niece. We have mostly been considering blue/red Persians, but my client asked to see some…
House Plants for Northern Exposure

Abbey Koplovitz

30 Jan 2010 | 7:03 am

A day doesn't go by without getting a question whose answer I either don't know or only partially know. It's the fun of this business -- Constant learning. I am perfectly comfortable with saying: "I don't know but I can find out." I also like learning new fun facts. Today I learned that the figure in wood that makes an arched/pointy shape is called a "cathedral." You can see an example below. PS. More terms about wood veneer can be found at Joewoodworker.com. That's where I found the image, too.Same week, different question. Yesterday, a…
Antique Persian Rugs, What's Not to Like?

Abbey Koplovitz

24 Jan 2010 | 5:31 am

Working with Landry & Arcari on a rug project. We are focusing on Antique Persian Rugs of the stunning variety.We brought many rugs to the house for the first viewing. We need rugs for the study, living room, dining room, entry, hall, office, and maybe master bedroom. These rugs are great in real life, but for some reason, the more beautiful the rug, the worse it looks on screen. Some of the subtly of color and pattern is lost for some reason. Once you identify what you like in the shop, then you have to identify what looks good in the space. The dining room rug we loved on site…
Art by Amy Ross avail at Urban Outfitters

Abbey Koplovitz

22 Jan 2010 | 6:12 am

Who said art cannot be affordable? My friend and former client, Amy Ross, has a great piece of art at Urban.Unfortunately, there's no picture to link to, so you'll just have to click here.Congrats, Amy for this wonderful business opportunity. I hope you sell tons!
So Sad about Haiti

Abbey Koplovitz

13 Jan 2010 | 8:12 pm

What does your home mean to you? Are you a decorator? An aspiring designer? Someone who just likes design and beautiful homes? As a professional designer what I do for clients and what I do for myself are different things. There's always that schism. Part has to do with budget, another with personal taste and still another with my challenge making decisions for my self. A recent first-time home owner, It's been stressful for me to make decisions and I know, I know -- I have been whiny about my inability to pick a fabric for a new sofa bed I plan to purchase.But tonight, with the…

Mark Cutler Design
More of The W Residences Hollywood

8 Feb 2010 | 9:12 pm

Here is a shot of the Master Bedroom at The W Hollywood Residences. All of the furniture and fabrics here came from the Dessin Fournir Companies. The bed is a design by Kerry Joyce and the fabrics are Classic Cloth. The back wall is upholstered in a distressed velvet that sets the mood for the room. I like the mix of contemporary art as well, it looks great on the patterned wall.
Look What I found on Etsy

7 Feb 2010 | 8:38 pm

I am not very good with scissors, so the idea of paper cut art has always fascinated me. The more detailed the better. I was looking around on Etsy.com and I cam across the work of Joe Bagley. He calls himself a full time paper cutting artist and it's not hard to see why. The great thing is he also able to do custom work. I have just started a new traditional style project and I think I will be
This is W!

2 Feb 2010 | 8:24 pm

So last night it was a preview of EVO, tonight it is the first shot of our Living Room at The W Hollywood Residences. I just got this shot today and I think it captures the room in such a great way. It was shot by Tim Street Porter whose work uses mainly natural lighting so it gives a stunning naturalistic feel to the images. Thank you to everyone who helped pull this all together, I will be
This is EVO!

1 Feb 2010 | 8:15 pm

I have written recently about some of the model units that I have been working on in Los Angeles. One of them is finally complete. It will open to the public later this month, but today I am posting a quick preview of the living room. In the next few days I will write in more detail about some of the pieces, but for now, just enjoy the view.If in the meantime you want to read more about EVO,
fly me to the moon

31 Jan 2010 | 4:17 pm

fly me to the moon

International Design Awards
Ecological faucet

Alice

9 Feb 2010 | 1:09 am

On top of its “no-touch” hygienic functionality as a faucet, the EcoPower is also designed to accommodate individuals with limited gripping power, such as those with disabilities or the elderly, as well as shorter users, especially children. TOTO Ltd
Island

Alice

8 Feb 2010 | 12:46 am

Island’ is a modular lounge that is a response to the variety of functions a sofa must perform. The lounge is made up of a seat, back, two arms, side table and tatami mat that sits over the ottoman module.The aesthetic was designed to be timeless in its simplicity, elegance and style. Ferguson Design Studio
Tara Kitchen Faucet

Alice

2 Feb 2010 | 11:19 pm

TARA refined a design icon with a modern interpretation. Focuses anew on form and fine craftsmanship. Extended to include the BLACK and WHITE finish editions. TARA refined is the standard for the future. Wall-mounted sink mixer, 225 mm, 300 mm projection. Dornbracht
Aquaovo Ovopur

Alice

1 Feb 2010 | 10:53 pm

Its modern, sleek design makes use of gravity to dispense water, so it doesn’t require electricity to operate. Made from smooth elegant porcelain, glass and metal, it will be a gorgeous addition to your home or office. Ovopur Eco-friendly water filter, 11 L (2,9 gal), Porcelain 11 x 14 x 26in, 24 lb. Aquaovo
Duette Table

Alice

31 Jan 2010 | 11:03 pm

The Duette’s table top is formed by a pair of solid wood planks with a center reveal. The modern trestle style base renders an aesthetically balanced support structure. Altura Furniture Inc

DesignBoston
.weekendDesign Sales*

Gradon

6 Feb 2010 | 10:02 am

How do you like the combined listing of design sales? Is it more useful? Let us know, and be sure to tell us if your store is having a sale! After the flurry of sales last week, this week’s a bit quiet. No doubt everyone’s getting ready for the Super Bowl tomorrow. DWR – 15% off all Knoll products through 2/7. Infusion Furniture – 50% off selected inventory: Side tables, coffee tables, console tables, etc. Contact for more details.
.secondAnnual Food for Free Campaign at Didriks*

Gradon

6 Feb 2010 | 6:51 am

If you follow any of my activities outside this blog, you know helping connect non-profits to their supporters using social media is one of them. Combine my passion for design and desire to help those less fortunate? Sounds perfect to me! Didriks in Cambridge is donating 5% of sales throughout February to Food For Free, a local food rescue organization. Didrik’s has already kicked off with a party on February 4th, which I hear was an amazing success. So, if you’re thinking of buying new outdoor furniture (spring is right around the corner, after all) or housewares, make it down to…
.grandRe-Opening Party at Iris Gallery*

Gradon

5 Feb 2010 | 6:13 am

Iris Gallery, on Charles St since 2007, closed several months ago. But it wasn’t, as you’d suspect, another victim to the economy. No, Allison Collins closed Iris Gallery, in fact, because she needed more room – not a bad problem to have! Iris Gallery is having a party to celebrate their re-opening at their new location, upstairs from Jonathan Adler at 129 Newbury St. Tonight, from 5:30 to 7:30, come check out the incredible photography, as well as the great new space! Iris Gallery 129 Newbury St Boston, MA
.renzoPiano Unveils Design for a New Wing at the Gardner*

Gradon

4 Feb 2010 | 6:09 am

Undeterred after quitting a (failed?) project to build a 1,000 square foot tower in Winthrop Square, Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano has returned to Boston. The scale of this project is certainly smaller than his last, but by no means is it less grand. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum has released the final plans for a new wing, designed by Renzo Piano. The aim of the new wing is to “relocate programs and functions that have unduly crowded the historic building, putting pressure on the landmark structure and its magnificent collections and diminishing the visitor…
.easternAccent Wins Accent On Design Award at NY Gift Fair*

Gradon

3 Feb 2010 | 2:23 pm

I was hoping to make the New York International Gift Fair this week, but sickness between and my would-be travel companion kept us both home. Though we weren’t able to make it, it looks like it was a success for at least one local shop: Eastern Accent of Sudbury won the Accent On Design award for Overall Excellence! For the last 30 years, Masayuki Muramatsu’s Eastern Accent has been selling “original Japanese modern designs to America and the rest of the world, inspiring all with Japan’s tradition of fine design and superior craftsmanship.” The Accent On Design…

Home Design Find
Design Dilemma: Functional Desks that Are Cool, Too

preynolds

9 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am

Sensible desks are a bit like sensible shoes. In other words, they’re functional but not so pretty to look at. The design challenge: finding a desk that can handle a computer, office supplies, papers, cables, printers, and still look deliciously elegant. (Above, the Piu desk formerly offered by Design Within Reach beautifully fit our criteria but alas is no longer available). So here’s a few options that are still available: If wires are your problem, we propose the Slot Desk (below) by Jennifer Newman. Red and shiny like a race car, this beauty provides a convenient slot that…
Solar Awnings-Plus for Commercial Buildings

Susan Kraemer

8 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

So often buildings have huge view windows, but once the realization of the need for shade arises, they just get curtained from inside, blocking the views. It’s sad. How much more useful it would be to use an awning to capture all that free sunshine, with adjustable solar shades. A shade that you could wind outwards from inside would be just perfect, like this Solar Awning design by xClinic to be tested at a pilot installation on the Bronx River Arts Center (BRAC) and NYU student housing. But this design goes one better than a simple solar shade. It is a complete mini ecosystem……
New Rammed Earth Design: Tough, Eco-Correct, & Very Chic

Susan Kraemer

4 Feb 2010 | 7:14 am

While people have built houses out of earth over the millennia, a new take on “rammed earth” building now makes it possible to make buildings out of earth that are both modern looking, elegant and extremely strong. Rammed earth walls that comprise both interior and exterior face in one integrated piece makes this building technology waste-free and easy on the environment. SIREWALL has updated the ancient technique by including rebar, cement, and insulation inside. The rebar provides earthquake-proof protection, and a 4″ layer of insulation barrier prevents any dampness from…
Massachusetts Condos Tap Geothermal Power for Cool Summers, Warm Winters

Susan Kraemer

3 Feb 2010 | 6:55 am

Because the earth absorbs about half the energy it gets from the sun, ground temperatures about four to six feet below the earth’s surface remain relatively moderate and constant all year. In Massachusetts, summer temperatures can be very hot and and humid. Winters are chilly.With climate change, more extremes are predicted for the region. But at Cold Spring Green, heating and cooling for each unit in these highly efficient condominiums will be delivered from wells dug into the ground at the front of the building during construction. The geothermal system will reduce the electrical energy…
Design Dilemma: Help for Hallways

preynolds

2 Feb 2010 | 3:14 am

We lavish lots of attention on perfecting our kitchens, living rooms, and even our bedrooms. But there’s one space that ironically is the most used AND the most neglected: the hallway. Many of us simply forget to spend any time at all making it a more pleasant passage. Just a few touches, however, can make a dramatic difference that will have even more impact if a hallway begins at your front door. 1) Hallway as gallery. What about transforming your hallway into a home gallery of photos or paintings? Because many hallways are narrow, it usually works better to hang smaller works that…

Bloesem
Ponyrider

Bloesem

8 Feb 2010 | 12:47 am

Yes I know, old news...but I just saw it today (and here) and I like it...the homewares collection from Australian company ponyrider...
Amor

Bloesem

7 Feb 2010 | 5:59 pm

New prints arrived in our home last week and while there were laying on our dining table my son started asking me all sorts of questions about the beautiful illustrations and that is what I LOVE so much about Ana Ventura's work...they start a conversation, bring you to a fairy-tale world and are so full of love, about connecting with each other and starting new life. If you would be able to visit our home than you would definitely notice my adoration for Ana her work, some of the (in)visible pieces are above our dining table, another lady hangs in our bedroom and 'tell me a…
things i liked this week...

Bloesem

4 Feb 2010 | 11:47 pm

These felted brooches by Cake with Giants... A done in 60 seconds customized lamp by Jurianne Matter... Vintage desk tidy organizer trays from 26Olivestreet...Wish you a Happy Weekend! Hope to see you back on Monday :) xx irene
DIY customized table ware from 101-woonideeen

Bloesem

3 Feb 2010 | 10:46 pm

I was scrolling online through the February issue of 101-woonideeen, one of the best DIY and interior magazines from the Netherlands at the moment, when I spotted these plates, I send Anne-Marie from 101-woonideeen an email asking her whether I could share this DIY project with you ... yes of course she said, so here you go...make your own customized art plates!What you need::*Used or vintage plates with a floral pattern * Adhesive foil, white mat *Spray Paint *Templates *Scissors *CutterHow to make::Prepare the baking plates by making them grease-free. Trace your pattern or template…
AphroChic

Bloesem

3 Feb 2010 | 5:21 pm

Jeanine Hays was on of the first bloggers who welcomed Bloesem to the community in 2006...this super friendly women is the author of the well-known blog Aphro-chic but she is also the designer of these funky pillows .... I was so happy for Jeanine when I heard about her new collection, congratulations girl! The patterns are really nice and I love Black and Yellow...and I love the Hans Wegner chair in the picture above :)... Please click here to see the whole collection from AphroChic and click here to read Jeanine her blog. {a lovely interview with Jeanine}

Behind the Curtains
A Green, Portable High Chair

PURE CONTEMPORARY

8 Feb 2010 | 7:58 am

An Eco-friendly, flat-pak, easily portable high chair is here. The Belkiz Feedaway wont be your everyday solution but it's perfect for when you're planning on dinner where a highchair wont be available. It's made of cardboard but strong enouh to hold a 20 month or 40 lb toddler. Pretty impressive.
Brink & Campman

PURE CONTEMPORARY

8 Feb 2010 | 7:51 am

Brink & Campman Rugs isn't merely a purveyor of exceptional area rugs. It's an innovator. With exclusive designs and a diverse array of styles, this room-altering selection runs the gamut from modern and contemporary to transitional styles, from vividly hued geometrics and abstracts to monochromatic options — and everything in between. Why not cover your floor with a work of art you'd happily hang on your wall?
Don't Miss It in Palm Springs

PURE CONTEMPORARY

8 Feb 2010 | 7:48 am

Palm Springs is host to Modernism week, a ten-day tribute to all forms of art made from the 1900s-1970s. It's main event is the 10th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show and Sale Feb12-14 at the Convention Center. More info at 1stDibs.
Motoised Roller Shades Get Eco-Friendly

PURE CONTEMPORARY

8 Feb 2010 | 7:39 am

These shades are low profile, safe for kids, collect minimal dust, eco-friendly and definitely my next home improvement purchase. Motorized EcoGreen Window Shades offer more than just convenience. They offer privacy, energy efficiency as well as peace of mind that the product is not harming the environment. Blinds Chalet offers EcoGreen Roller Shades and EcoGreen Sun Shades. Both lines offer the following in regards to environmental safety: • PVC-free EcoGreen fabrics are free from PVC and contain no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) • 100% Recyclable Each EgoGreen fabric is completely…
More from Meyda

PURE CONTEMPORARY

8 Feb 2010 | 7:34 am

The Hot Shop... Meyda artisans employ innovative "Hot Shop" glass blowing techniques to re-create and re-shape new Wine Bottle Pendants, in this painstaking process. Pictured are three new Flared Wine Bottle Pendants, from left to right: 3"W Flared Green Wine Bottle Mini Pendant (114302); 4"W Finned Blue Wine Bottle Mini Pendant (114318); And 5"W Fluted And Finned Amber Wine Bottle Mini Pendant (114303). All of the fixtures use a 40-watt T6.5 bulb. All styles are available in frosted or transparent colored glass.

2Modern Design Talk
Two a Tea

Kit Unreliable

9 Feb 2010 | 6:10 am

Of all the design trends in the world I could be watching, I seem to be involuntarily drawn to all things tea. Tea bags, tea cups, tea pots, tea cosies, tea parties - if it has to do with tea, I'm all over it.*Which probably goes a long way to explain my utter obsession with this little slice of tea-nius (say it out loud, I swear it makes sense!) - the Tea Sub by Ototo. Oh yes, a little yellow submarine to cheer up your day and make you a tasty brew. The only downside is that you can't possibly make yourself a cup without making submarine sound effects (why does my submarine sound like the…
Be My Valentine

Mette Dyhrberg

9 Feb 2010 | 12:14 am

Need a little help? Everybody needs a little help now and again. Superspace has created a series that help us through the challenges of everyday life with affection and humor. www.superspace.dk
A Paper Forest

Miriam

8 Feb 2010 | 5:48 pm

I was amazed to learn that these organic forms are sculpted entirely out of trash. The artist, Yuken Teruya, cuts and folds his medium of paper or cardboard without creating his own trash, or adding it back into the environment. My favorite is this tree formed out of a McDonald's Happy Meal Bag. A tissue roll transforms into a single tree with a shadow.
Calu Fontes

Heloisa Righetto

8 Feb 2010 | 10:58 am

These illustrations by Calu Fontes are just breath taking! So detailed, so colourful... amazing! These pieces are for me like works of art, not only simple tableware.
Great New 2Modern Kids Lamps

Anthony E

5 Feb 2010 | 9:58 am

Exclusive kids and baby lighting designs only found at 2Modern. We bring you bright and worldly patterns to brighten up a child's room or nursery. We are pleased to present to you the Kids & Baby Lance 24" Table Lamp, the Kids & Baby Thao Hanging Pendant Lamp, and the Kids & Baby Devon 21" Table Lamp.

Landfair Furniture
NUSA Furniture

Bev & Mike

5 Feb 2010 | 10:59 am

My, My, My!!! Now this is furniture design!NUSA Furniture gathered design and manufacturing talents from around the world. "For over 10 years Nusa has been dedicated to the highest standards of quality, durability and design excellence importing, distributing and manufacturing hand crafted artisanal furnishings. NUSA strives to serve the most discriminating clients for both residential and hospitality projects."That part about serving "the most discriminating clients" probably means a high price point, but look at these designs:Absolutely stunning!Bev & MikeLandfair Furniture + Design…
New From Duralee Fabrics

Bev & Mike

3 Feb 2010 | 10:42 am

Thomas Paul! Born and raised in New York City, he's worked for such designers as Bill Blass, Calvin Klein, and DKNY. He started his own business with the Thomaspaul pillow collection in 2001. Since then his line has steadily expanded to include tabletop, stationery, and lamp shades. His ultimate goal is to have products covering every aspect of the home, all with thomaspaul patterns gracing them.Now, following the success of his first print collection for Duralee, Thomas Paul expands his offerings of iconic patterns with Thomas Paul 2.His progressive and intuitive design sensibility is…
Choosing Furniture Size

Bev & Mike

2 Feb 2010 | 9:51 am

Here's something to check out! While searching HGTV.com for videos of World Market in Las Vegas, I came across Genevieve Tips and I thought this was good:Choosing Furniture SizeEnjoy!Bev & MikeLandfair Furniture + Design galleryBecome Our Fan on Facebook
G/S Architects' Newsletter

Bev & Mike

1 Feb 2010 | 10:15 am

We just received David Giulietti's newsletter. He's the principal at Giulietti / Schouten AIA Architects P.C. on NW Thurman. In the newsletter I noticed that his firm has been busy on the Keates / Siker residence. Marilyn Soljaga of Soljaga Design Group,, was the interior designer on the project.I also read that Jennifer Conway is now married to Jeff Guggenheim and she has started Fig Studios Interior Design.You can read the whole letter here.Bev & MikeLandfair Furniture + Design galleryBecome Our Fan on Facebook
Lorts Introduces New Designs

Bev & Mike

30 Jan 2010 | 2:12 pm

World Market in Las Vegas is the place for new furniture introductions. This week we'll see the introduction of the new Jordan Spencer by Lorts line.Bev & MikeLandfair Furniture + Design galleryBecome Our Fan on Facebook

Padstyle
Designer Spotlight: Umlaute Designbureau

Lauren

8 Feb 2010 | 2:10 pm

Umlaute Designbureau has a mandate to create modern interior design that challenges on both the visceral and intellectual level. The unique elements of the basic interior building blocks – chairs, tables, dressers – are explored, and the functionality is put up against the newly created piece. Material is a highlighted part of the design process at Umlaute, as its textures and colors are used to establish beauty. The above pictured Sides Vase is made from acrylic and each side expresses a different color and design, while the below pictured Plixel colorful, module cabinet space is…
Designer Spotlight: Atelier XT

Lauren

5 Feb 2010 | 7:28 pm

Atelier XT is as indie as it gets when it comes to interior design. All of their products are hand made by the husband and wife team, both working hard to produce one-of-a-kind pieces that encompass that flea-market gem vibe. The bright, contrasting patterns found on most of the pieces is complimented by the wonky and rustic construction. Many of their furniture items are for or related to children, as they have young ones of their own. This husband and wife duo are clearly in-sync with one another, and you’ll feel that harmony in your own home if you bring in the indie-cool of their…
Designer Spotlight: ChocoMousse

Lauren

4 Feb 2010 | 7:21 pm

ChocoMousse is a design boutique that focuses on unique, classy, and high-end production. They advertise their specialty as building exclusive designs with the finest natural beech, oak, or cherrywood, and this attention to quality shows. The natural grain of the wood in the above two pieces is streamlined and made elegant by the slick form of the desk and the eye-catching form of the coffee table. Any interior will finds its internal glow with the addition of one of ChocoMousse’s flagship pieces. The chic au naturel look of their creations is hip, trendy, and will be a versatile…
Designer Spotlight: Geoffrey Lilge

Lauren

3 Feb 2010 | 7:05 pm

The Canadian-born Geoffrey Lilge is a design innovator. He has produced countless pieces of furniture and home accessories as the Design Director for Pure Design from 1993 to 2004, and during this time their collection was featured in the MoMA Design Encyclopedia. He has recently branched out to do his own work, inspired by the beauty and nature around him in his home town of Edmonton, Alberta. The above pictured L40 chair is modern, angled, and exudes attitude. His other work is streamlined and minimalist as well, and encompasses everything from tables made of solid slabs of maple to…
Designer Spotlight: Arlinda Sheqiri

Lauren

2 Feb 2010 | 6:49 pm

Arlinda Sheqiri describes her work as frozen music. The audience isn’t supposed to care about the singer, but rather the song. This inspired perspective has given this interior designer and architect an eye for the beautiful and melodious in our everyday experience of the space around us. She has done work for private firms, such as chair and restaurant design, as well as created schemes for a recreation center, a hotel, and a theater. Her interiors are spacious and follow a single theme that has many visual variants, similar to the melody of a tune being complimented by its harmony.

Things That Inspire
The bed wall decision

Things That Inspire

8 Feb 2010 | 4:10 am

One of the most interesting aspects of building from scratch is being able to make decisions about all sorts of details in a house that I had always taken for granted. This has, in turn, caused me to appreciate all of the pictures in my inspiration files even more, because I can look at them with a fresh perspective. Take the bed wall, for example. My current master bedroom (shown above) is spacious and bright (I was planning on getting accent pillows, but once the decision was made to move, I put all purchases on hold). The furnishings, a mixture of hand me down and new, suit the room well;…
What’s New at Quatrefoil Design

Things That Inspire

4 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

It has been five months since my I launched my online store, Quatrefoil Design, and my team and I have already sold framed intaglios from coast to coast! (Click here to see our original intaglio post launching the store.) All of our customers have been thrilled with the quality and beauty of the framed intaglios; the prices are also amazing. During a recent visit to an antique store in town, I noticed that many of our competitors’ framed intaglios were priced at $500 and up. Ours are less than half that price. In response to designer and customer requests, we quickly added a new frame…
Kitchen and sink tips from my blog readers!

Things That Inspire

1 Feb 2010 | 4:10 am

Kitchens clearly are a passion for many of my readers, and I received a record number of comments to ‘the kitchen sink’ post. I also received more than 100 emails with all sorts of great kitchen design wisdom, some of which contained pictures of the most beautiful kitchens from all over the world! One of my readers from Connecticut sent me this picture of her beautiful kitchen sink. She has a Franke professional series 30" stainless steel sink (the deep one), and Perrin & Rowe bridge faucet. I must admit that this picture is swaying me against the farmhouse sink – I love the clean…
The Kitchen Sink

Things That Inspire

26 Jan 2010 | 5:30 am

I am thinking about kitchens this week, as I spent 2 1/2 hours at the kitchen appliance store yesterday. Although there are some big decisions that need to be made, I feel well prepared thanks to Cynthia Ziegler, my wonderful kitchen designer, as well as the kitchen forum on Gardenweb. I am the type of person who likes to research and ask a lot of questions – then once I make the decisi0n, I rarely second guess. When reading the kitchen forum of Gardenweb, I realized that the sink decision is one of the first decisions that must be made. Are you a single bowl person, or a double bowl…
Inspirational New Blogs

Things That Inspire

24 Jan 2010 | 7:56 am

There are so many great architecture and design blogs out there, and sometimes it is sometimes hard for them to get ‘found’ by readers. I usually find my ‘new’ blogs through posts by some of my favorite bloggers (as well as blog rolls and comments on my own blog). Occasionally I will read a new blog that really speaks to me, and I have recently come across several blogs that I think my readers will like. DC by Design I find that the aesthetic of many of the designers in DC really appeals to me. Two of my favorites – Jim Hawes of Caldwell-Beebe and Sally Steponkus of Sally Steponkus…

Cote De Texas
A Texas Enfilade

6 Feb 2010 | 7:47 pm

This month’s Veranda – it’s a good one! I opened an email from a reader – she casually mentioned she wasn’t happy with the new Veranda, she found it boring and thought perhaps I would join her in the bashing. I thought, should I? Should I pretend I agreed with the reader even when I truly didn’t? After all she is quite nice and sweet enough to email me and the last thing I would want to do is offend her by arguing about a magazine, of all things! So, I pondered my answer to her (and I wonder why my emails are so stacked up!)…

The Steampunk Home
Steampunk Fabric Contest at Spoonflower

9 Feb 2010 | 9:28 am

Spoonflower -- a custom fabric printing site -- is sponsoring a steampunk fabric contest. There doesn't seem to be any prize other than the glory, but I like anything that increases the amount of steampunk options available for home decor projects.There's already a number of designs uploaded! Here's my favorites:The repeat on this one is awesome... I like the kid friendly colors here -- great for a nursery? This one has a lot of potential for large curtains -- I'd pair it with stained concreate floors and a relatively strong industrial Victorian vibe. Need help getting started? Wait for my…
The New Victorians in House Beautiful

6 Feb 2010 | 11:13 am

Look what's in House Beautiful this month....Nice of them to catch up, no?Thanks, Jaime, for pointing this out!
Campaign Furniture, Globes, Bookcases at One King's Lane

5 Feb 2010 | 10:21 am

Wow, One King's Lane does it again -- this time a sale on Globes, Furniture, and Accessories from Authentic Models. I've ogled their furniture for a long time, and with much of this 50% off, I think I may get a side table for the new playroom, am thinking about a pair of bedside tables, and who wouldn't need another bookcase?You'll have to sign up to browse the wares, but you may find it worthwhile.
Octopus Table on Etsy

5 Feb 2010 | 8:07 am

Yesterday's post solicited a comment by Tammyo about this Octopus Coffee Table, in the same vein as the one pictured, that she has (had!) for sale on Etsy. By the time I read the comment, it was already sold, and I can see why -- it's awesome.I don't mean to tease, but I think we should encourage Tammy to make more in this vein.
Erin Martin Design

4 Feb 2010 | 11:01 am

Jaime introduced me to the delightful work of Erin Martin Design. Here's the most steampunk of her designs.I love the quirkiness of using wall mounted reading lamps to light a sink.I think these images are some for a radio-crystallography -- but maybe one of you know better?Nice juxtaposition of industrial lighting with traditional handwriting.I *love* the door on this bathroom.Dark. Moody. Train.Would love to know who made this coffeetable with an octopus on it.Antique Astronomy Chart...with an even older celestial tool in front of it...

Atticmag
Bathroom Sinks Designed for Fun

Jane T

8 Feb 2010 | 10:00 pm

We spend a good amount of time here at Atticmag searching out well designed and stylish kitchens and bathrooms to feature each week. When it comes to bath and powder rooms, paying attention to what may seem like small details can have a significant effect on the mood of your space. The sinks featured here are on the whimsical side. There’s nothing traditional or ordinary about them. Instead they are designed to invoke a sense of individuality — a glimpse into the personality of the home’s owners. [Design shown above: Oregon Trout]. Money Down the Drain Pool Balls If…
Rupert Blanchard’s Fine Salvage Furniture

Jane T

7 Feb 2010 | 2:41 pm

If you are a fan of old furniture, or should I say, furniture parts, especially those that have been salvaged and reincarnated, there’s an artist in London I’d like to tell you about. Rupert Blanchard is a craftsman in pursuit of old drawers to repurpose into cabinets. But that’s not quite the whole story because not just any drawer will do. Scouting through estate, market and garage sales, he’s on the lookout for a very special type of drawer. “I’ve been collecting odd drawers for the past four years. My drawers are lost & found, saved & given…
Quiz – Colorful Wallflowers

Allison

5 Feb 2010 | 8:30 pm

Clue: each wallflower is approximately 8″ diameter There’s nothing shy about these wallflowers. What are these items? Post your best guess and I’ll return on Tuesday for the big reveal. Answer: Daisy Radiator by Hellos No bones about it, these Daisy wall radiators are chock-full of flower power! Individual units allow you to make custom designs with ease and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Concealed valves hide their true purpose, while optional LED lighting kits will provide a colorful glow. Another decorative solution for a common necessity… Let’s…
Back-story: Thank You Jeffrey Bilhuber!

Jane F

4 Feb 2010 | 10:05 pm

Last week, I met designer Jeffrey Bilhuber at a Doyle New York auction gallery exhibition where a signing for his second book, Defining Luxury, the Qualities of Life at Home (Rizzoli, $65) also was taking place. While we were talking – more about why in a minute – he asked if I planned to bid on anything in the “The Well Appointed Room” sale [a reference to Edith Wharton] of furniture and decorative pieces from three dealers who were friends of his. “No,” I said. “We just finished renovating our apartment.” Then I asked if he planned to bid on anything. “Yes, quite a…
Decorating With Red

Allison

3 Feb 2010 | 8:30 pm

Does Valentine’s Day have you seeing red? Cards and flowers aren’t the only things you should purchase in this bold color. The candy apple retro play kitchen is a hot ticket, but worth the wait. Scroll through AtticMag’s selection of grown-up spaces to see that all Red Kitchens don’t have to be pretend. JaneT found a Quirky Decor Stiletto doorstop in black last Fall for JaneF. Our resident fashionista should pump it up with the red version. Confession time Part Deux; I have yet to order my Decorative Wastebaskets. But when I do, I know they will have me…

Rug News
02092010 Business Report From Las Vegas, Part 1

9 Feb 2010 | 9:30 am

02092010 Business Report From Las Vegas, Part 1
02082010 World Market Center Optimistic After February Las Vegas Market

9 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am

02082010 World Market Center Optimistic After February Las Vegas Market
02082010 AmericasMart to Host Home Furnishings and Home Textiles Markets in March

9 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am

02082010 AmericasMart to Host Home Furnishings and Home Textiles Markets in March
00000_Tab_ Calendar

9 Feb 2010 | 7:51 am

00000_Tab_ Calendar
02012010 New York International Carpet Show set for September 2010

8 Feb 2010 | 8:00 am

02012010 New York International Carpet Show set for September 2010

GOLD NOTES
Lighting 101 Guest Post - Powder Room Strategies

3 Feb 2010 | 11:28 am

Powder room lighting has come a long way over the years. Gone - thank heavens - are the bare bulb light bars of yore. Today, the opportunities to create a wonderful, well-lit space are as endless as your imagination. Well, maybe not yours or mine, but definitely my guest author, lighting designer Vicky Lodge, Allied ASID, whose imagination overflows with brilliant lighting ideas. Vicky returns to GOLD NOTES after her terrific kitchen lighting post last year with these innovative strategies for lighting your powder room. Small space, big impactPowder rooms usually receive more traffic than any…
More from the International Builders Show

27 Jan 2010 | 10:22 am

Last week I attended the International Builders Show in Las Vegas, and posted an entry live from the convention center. Here are more goodies from IBS. Last, but definitely not least!GEGE has introduced a hybrid water heater that can cut your electric bills by more than 60 percent. It may not be the most energy-efficient unit on the market, (though it is EnergyStar qualified), but it does have two features I find noteworthy: 1) It fits into a typical water heater installation location easily and seamlessly. 2) It has an easy to use vacation setting that makes it easy to turn off for up to 90…
Live from the International Builders Show 2010

22 Jan 2010 | 1:00 pm

The show is coming to an end this afternoon and attendees are heading home. Like the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show last spring, it was a smaller event than in past years, but exhibitors were happy with the quality of leads they got, if not the overall quantity of traffic.My goal in attending these events is to see the latest products my readers and clients would find appealing for their homes. IBS2010 didn’t disappoint in that regard. Here are those I found most notable.KohlerKohler always has innovative and stylish products. On the innovative end is the Conceal Mirrored Cabinet and Lock…
Sensible Style - Easy Color Updates

12 Jan 2010 | 12:14 pm

Sensible Style launched in July 2009 to answer your questions about kitchen design and remodeling. This time around, we’ll look at updating your space with color. One of the most common questions readers ask is how to incorporate color into a kitchen without dating it. Unless you’re completely committed to a beloved blue or red, and resale is not an issue, you may not want to change all your cabinets, countertops or appliances to that hue. Here are some ways to add a hot color without a major investment.FabricsOne of the easiest and most affordable ways of adding this season’s hottest…
Sensible Style - Your 8 best holiday helpers

8 Dec 2009 | 7:15 am

Sensible Style launched in July to answer your questions about how to get the most out of your kitchen. ...That's especially crucial at this time of year, when many of us are entertaining friends, family and colleagues in our homes. That makes it stress time for your kitchen! Here are some handy helpers to make the holiday season easier on you, your schedule and the hardest working room of your house.Maximize cooking capacityMost of the kitchens I've remodeled have started out with a single oven range with four burners on top, and a separate microwave oven. This is the sum total of their…

Tchochkes
Decorating in red, white & blue

Patti Boker Elkon

8 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

Photo by Willow Decor As a rule I am not big on decorating in patriotic flair but I found this website and fell in love with the photos shown here for ideas on how to utilize Red, White & Blue in a lovely way. Willow Decor is a blog that takes its inspiration from Swedish, Belgian and Gustavian styles and it shows. By integrating color in a subtle manner the room below highlights the patriotic theme in a positive, decorative way. Pairing a beach theme with traditional colors pulls the style in an entirely new direction. Check out their website for more wonderful ideas in this…
Do you know where your paper clips are tonight?

Tammy Nguyen Thiebaud

7 Feb 2010 | 11:00 pm

Back in the days when I lived in Texas, I met some very strange people. Once, at ZH’s office party, someone said to me, “You know, your husband’s desk is always clean at the end of the day. It’s creepy. It’s like nobody works there.” I knew two things about ZH — one, he’s a neatnik; and two, he’s slightly odd (but that could be because he was French) — so I didn’t think much about the comment. At the time, as a housewife with three young children, I didn’t work; hence I didn’t have a desk to compare to. I had gone…
Color Tip of the Week: Accessorize

Patti Boker Elkon

6 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

Wool Blankets by Benneton Color comes in all shapes and sizes and there are many options when it comes to adding color to a space. Take a look around, from window treatments to rugs, a colorful room can be achieved without ever lifting a paint brush. Even a small dose of a new color or two can liven up a room. Here’s how you can find inspiration and add a few colorful additions to your space. Tips: * Fabrics are a nice alternative to art work. If you want to spice up a couch or bed just add a few colorful cushions. * Rugs add warmth and color in the same breath. …
Banking on the future and preserving the past

Judy Weiss

4 Feb 2010 | 8:34 pm

Wherever I go I always keep my eye open for historically preserved buildings. I spotted the Schiff House (Beit Schiff) a few weeks ago on the corner of Herzl and Lillienblum, Tel-Aviv. The Israel Discount Bank Tower does dwarf it, however the care with which the building was preserved and restored to a museum lends itself to a worthwhile visit. HerzLillienblum, The Museum of Banking and Tel-Aviv Nostalia (maybe they could have picked a more creative name) opened its doors in 2009 in Tel-Aviv’s centennial year. The tours are adapted to a variety of audiences: focusing on history or…
New store concept: New people, San Francisco

Patti Boker Elkon

3 Feb 2010 | 9:00 pm

New People Store Floor, art by Yuichi Yokoyama My recent visit to SanFrancisco introduced me to an interesting venue designed by Japanese designer Seiji Horibuchi. New People is not just a store, it’s a mini mall in the heart of Japan Town that is filled with the finest in Japanese conceptual art. The four floors of wondrous finds took seven years to actualize. The most interesting thing about the place is that it is not just a shopping experience, there is a cafe, art gallery, movie theater and a store all in one space. The space is a reflection of modern Japanese…

The Organizing Boutique Blog
Clutter Control Tips

8 Feb 2010 | 3:39 pm

Are you overwhelmed with clutter? Check out these ideas on clutter control!
Preparing & Organizing Important Papers

29 Jan 2010 | 2:39 pm

Organizing important papers is crucial! What would you do if your purse or wallet was stolen?
Organizing Your Financial Life

29 Jan 2010 | 2:26 pm

Organizing your financial life is more crucial than ever! Check out these tips for organizing important papers and other things related to saving money.
New Uses For Old Things

13 Jan 2010 | 5:35 pm

No need to spend money on products - use what you have. Check out these creative new uses for old things!
Organizing and Time Management

30 Dec 2009 | 1:58 pm

Need help organizing your goals? Check out these time management tips!

This Young House
Nursery Progress: Getting The Hang Of It

Sherry

9 Feb 2010 | 6:57 am

We’re back with our homemade nursery curtain panel how-to. Remember when we revealed our punchy patterned find during last week’s shopping post? Well here’s how we took it from one big bolt of rolled up fabric… … to three gorgeous floor-length curtains (two for the window and one for the doorless closet). And probably best of all: there’s no sewing machine required. In fact, here’s my short and sweet list of supplies: tape measure, scissors, iron on hem tape, and an iron of course. Plus we even added a few kid-safe features so stay tuned for those…
Fab Freebie: Easily Turned On

John

8 Feb 2010 | 9:59 am

So you saw me install this puppy earlier today, and just as we promised we’re back to give you a shot at winning one of your own. The Delta Pilar kitchen faucet with Touch 2O Technology is pretty much any DIY-lover or enthusiastic chef’s best friend because, just as the commercial below demonstrates, you can wash paint, dirt, eggs, chicken goo or any other home-improvement or cooking related mess off of your hands without ever getting it on your purdy fixture. We’ve actually had ours installed for a week now and I’ve found it extremely helpful even when doing simple…
Replacing A Kitchen Faucet

John

8 Feb 2010 | 6:49 am

We have nothing bad to say about about the Price Pfister faucet that we purchased as part of our kitchen remodel back in 2007 (especially since we scored it for a mere $71 on eBay). But sometimes change is a good thing. Why? Because the kind folks at Delta faucets generously offered to let us take their new Pilar Pull-Down Faucet with Touch 2O Technology for a spin. Psst- Want one too? Stay tuned for this week’s giveaway since we actually wrangled one for a lucky random winner as well! The Pilar’s sleek brushed nickel finish is a perfect match for our kitch and the Touch 2O…
Reader Redesign: Kitchen Quickchange

Sherry

5 Feb 2010 | 10:17 am

When Jennifer sent us her almost unrecognizable kitchen before and after pictures we had to share the goods. Here’s her letter: I‘m so excited about my kitchen transformation that I had to send it your way since so much of it was inspired by YHL! Two of my favorite features in my new space (under cabinet spice shelf and sliding barn door) were inspired by this transformation that you guys featured on your blog a few months back. You can see my entire transformation with before/after pics here and the day by day process here. I’m so glad we were able to take the room from a…
Burning Question: Spendy Splurges?

Sherry

5 Feb 2010 | 6:05 am

This query of the week was actually submitted by a reader named Molly and we couldn’t wait to get everyone’s read on the subject. The big Q: What has been your biggest home-related splurge? And looking back, was it worth it? We love to hoard our pennies whenever we can but we’re also known to save them up for something truly special for our little ranch, so we know a thing or two about splurging on a few occasions. What have you guys gone all out on? And was it all that you thought it would be? Does it make you smile every time you see it? Or are you too scared that…

designShrine
NEW YORK INTERLUDE

Ty Wenzel

4 Feb 2010 | 7:28 pm

Was feeling blue, so I took a couple of buses to get away for a few days, first from East Hampton, NY to Montvale, NJ, to Manhattan back to East Hampton, NY in the course of three days. Decided to film it, star in it and and share it. Although it seems that I look down, it was a kind of comforting blue feeling. New York City does that to me. Unconditionally, it loves you, takes you in, lets you be crazy and forgives you. So this is a little thank you to my favorite town, New York. 2009/2010 new york barbri books+complete outline+extras 0 Bid US $645.00 15m Streets of New York, Vol. 1, New…
FLICKER FILES: family room entryway area

Ty Wenzel

4 Feb 2010 | 7:08 pm

family room entryway area, originally uploaded by revolutionarygirl. The muted colors and the interesting retro details really make this simple composition quite stylish. NEW Eames Chair Leather Recliner Lounger and ottoman US $3,699.00 1d 4h 14m Herman Miller Leather Eames Recliner Chair and Ottoman US $3,699.00 5d 13h 22m Share, E-Mail or Print the Style:
MORE FREE ICONS THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH

Ty Wenzel

28 Jan 2010 | 8:17 pm

If you're an icon fanatic (like me), you must bookmark this PAGE! Share, E-Mail or Print the Style:
Flickr Files: Rooms that Make Me Drool

Ty Wenzel

28 Jan 2010 | 8:10 pm

4 Herman Miller Eames Shell Chairs 23 Bids US $425.77 1h 6m 2 Mid Century Modern Chairs Hollywood Regency eames era 0 Bid US $299.00 1h 21m HERMAN MILLER EAMES BRICK/BURGUNDY FABRIC ROCKER CHAIR 13 Bids US $255.00 1h 38m EAMES CHAIR FIBERGLASS RED VYNIL HERMAN MILLER '93 "S" 3 Bids US $66.00 2h 7m EAMES CHAIR BLACK FIBERGLASS RED OLIVE GIRARD FABRIC 1 Bid US $45.00 2h 20m Eames Era Danish Frem Rojle Table Frem Rojle Chair 1950 6 Bids US $405.00 2h 25m 4 Vintage THONET Eames Era Mid Century Modern Chairs US $599.99 2h 33m Vintage WASSILY Era Chair Lamp Table Light EAMES Era 0 Bid US $25.00 2h…
Casual Home Design in Netherlands

Ty Wenzel

28 Jan 2010 | 7:50 pm

Located in Bussum, Amsterdam, this casual home design may look like your average abode from the front, but let us assure you, it is anything but! The rear view holds something of a surprise – a delight for the outdoor enthusiast and architecture lover alike. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass and a large terrace overlooking a secluded, leafy backyard with a pool, this unusual home brings you the best of both worlds – indoor and out. Netherlands architecture firm Group A created a wonderful contrast to the surrounding 19th century villas in this contemporary, slanted-roof, angled-wall home.

Your Designer Friend
Episode 4 of Marriage Under Construction – online

designerfriend

2 Feb 2010 | 12:14 pm

Watch Melissa in Episode 4 of HGTV's Marriage Under Construction online now.
Episode 3 of Marriage Under Construction – online

designerfriend

25 Jan 2010 | 10:39 am

Watch episode 3 of Marriage Under Construction now. Melissa reveals the full house plan to Rod and Nat.
Episode 2 of Marriage Under Construction -online

designerfriend

20 Jan 2010 | 9:16 am

Watch Melissa getting started with the team in Episode 2 of Marriage Under Construction.
New York Fashion Designer Creates 3D Art for a Baby’s Room

designerfriend

17 Jan 2010 | 10:26 am

Fashion designer Christy Zolty creates children's accessories for one of my projects.
Winter Sale at 120 Modern

designerfriend

10 Jan 2010 | 11:47 am

Winter Sale now on at 120 Modern on Ossington.

Hygge Nook
Boys' beds

Camilla

9 Feb 2010 | 3:46 am

I thought finding a bed for my oldest son would be super duper easy. Nope. When the children's beds were last updated, they got Ikea extendable children's beds (now discontinued I think, but similar to this). Whilst it was great that we could shorten and lengthen them, the height was entirely rubbish. Too low to get any storage boxes under but just high enough that toys and other bits got shoveled under there. M and S both have one of these beds each so the idea is to move M's bed into S's room where G will inherit it now that he is ready to move on from his cot. They will have matching beds…
Little interview at Tea for Joy

Camilla

28 Jan 2010 | 8:41 am

Lynne of Tea for Joy asked me to take part in her Style Resolutions series and my interview is now on her blog here. She asked me about my favourite finds of 2009, my style resolutions for 2010 and which style blogs I'll be reading. Nip over and have a look. In the same series, Lynne has also interviewed bloggers Emma Lamb, Conversation Pieces, Patchwork Harmony and La Petit Oiseau. New ones for your RSS reader, perhaps? Thanks for having me over, Lynne!
Thursday Three

Camilla

28 Jan 2010 | 5:39 am

+ Crochet Adorned - new crafty book to add to my collection. The author also blogs at Linda Made. Lots of lovely, colourful, crafty things.+ The True Blood books boxset, by Charlaine Harris, I got as a Christmas gift. It has books 1-8 so you'll need to snag book 9 too. All it took was one bite and I was addicted.+ Malteser cake - as soon as I saw Helen's recipe, I had to have a go. It's similar to rocky road and terrifically yummy - I added a handful of chopped up mini marshmallows to mine (pic, above)
Memory quilts - what to do with your children's old clothes

Camilla

28 Jan 2010 | 4:05 am

Like a lot parents (I assume), I have quite a few of my children's old clothes put away. Mostly it's the baby stuff, that is so small and impossibly cute that they hardly seem like a real little human was in them. I adore these things. They were the things my children wore in the first days, weeks and months of their lives and I've attached a whole bunch of sentiment to that. However, there they are lingering in three or four taped-up boxes. They'll probably never be worn again but I can't get rid of these favourite little clothes. Just before you say that some needy children out there may…
Crocheted granny star garland

Camilla

27 Jan 2010 | 3:42 am

Do excuse the slightly wonky frames - I didn't notice until I uploaded the pics. I love bunting, I love garlands. I like colour, I like creating. So, of course, I love everything about this pretty star garland. I don't think this is where it will live, but I wanted to take a snap. I suspect that my daughter will want it for her room as soon as she sees it! I found instructions for the granny stars here at The Royal Sisters, via Attic 24, and soon whipped up 12 stars. They take no time at all to make, are easy enough for beginners, and I had plenty of colours in my yarn stash to make…

The Finishing Touch
Recycling Blinds

Esther

19 Jan 2010 | 11:05 am

At least once a week, someone emails me asking, “How do I recycle blinds?” Being the Super Sleuth that I am, I decided to take a more in-depth look at our options, because recycling can be complicated if you’re attempting to getting rid of something other than computer paper in an eco-friendly way. My first attempt at “research” was a Wikipedia search because, as Michael Scott would say, “anyone in the world can write anything they want about any subject so you know you are getting the best possible information.” He was wrong in this case; Wikipedia turned up nothing on how to…
Blinds.com Partners with Linens N Things to Sell Custom Blinds

Esther

14 Jan 2010 | 1:52 pm

Look Ma, we’re growing! Now you can buy Blinds.com-brand blinds and shades directly through Linens-N-Things (LNT.com) while buying all kinds of other household goodies. Check out their awesome line of custom window blinds by going to LNT.com. Don't forget to follow Blinds.com on Twitter! @BlindsDotCom
Pantone Announces 2010 Color of the Year: Turquoise

Esther

10 Dec 2009 | 9:28 am

If you’re a design fanatic like I am, then you wait with baited breath for the announcement of Pantone’s choice for Color of the Year. The color choice speaks to design and décor trends, a collective feel for the direction design will go in the year to come, and it’s also kind of fun to see what they choose. A little information about turquoise, from Jacci Howard Bear on About.com: “This in-between color represents water, thus the names aqua and aquamarine. It's also a valuable and popular mineral often turned into jewelry. Turquoise is closely associated with the Middle East and…
Editor's Pick: Enclosed Blinds Are a Simple, Child Safe Solution

Esther

23 Nov 2009 | 1:03 pm

Once in awhile, a product comes along that is so exciting and innovative, that it’s totally worth a blog post dedicated to ONLY it. One such product has come through the door of the Blinds.Complex. ODL Enclosed Blinds are sleek, energy efficient, and super safe for homes with kids and pets. They’re truly revolutionary. Enclosed Blinds increase thermal efficiency up to 104%. I don’t know about you, but I’d love to watch my energy bill deflate, even as it gets colder this winter. I get asked about Enclosed Blinds a lot, and I highly recommend them if you have steel or fiberglass doors.
Blinds.com Corporate Culture and Why This is a Weird, Wonderful Place to Work

Esther

13 Nov 2009 | 7:19 am

Are you forced to wear pieces of flair at work? Do people make you talk about it? This is not the way to create corporate culture. Corporate culture is certainly getting a lot of buzz these days, and it's critical to your organization’s success. Sure, it’s nice to be talked about, and having a unique work environment makes for great word-of-mouth (eg, Zappos, Facebook). But that’s not really what makes cool office spaces so instrumental in creating culture. A workplace that reflects the attitudes and ideas of the company collectively makes for happy, energetic, proactive employees.

The Office Stylist
Winner of the FashionBliss.com Giveaway!

The Office Stylist

9 Feb 2010 | 9:01 am

Last Tuesday we announced our February giveaway from FashionBliss.com: Using Random.org, the winner of this fabulous giveaway is……………… Lynn Manning with Comment #12! Please be sure to contact us with your mailing address so we can send out your winnings! Want to sponsor a giveaway at TheOfficeStylist.com? Send us an email at hi (at) theofficestylist.com for more details. The Office Stylist
The Arc Keyboard

The Office Stylist

8 Feb 2010 | 10:48 am

We were lucky enough to get our hot little hands on the brand new(not even out yet!) Microsoft Arc Keyboard: Isn’t it pretty? The Microsoft Arc Keyboard has a very sleek and slim design, and typing on the keyboard is quite comfortable as well. Though we work on Mac computers here at The Office Stylist, the keyboard does work with both Mac and Windows systems. The main differences here on the Mac is that instead of using the Command button we use the Windows button. Some cool features: Use it up to 15 feet away Small size 12″ X 6″ Thin, compact and light weight Only $59.95…
Steamer Trunk Office

The Office Stylist

8 Feb 2010 | 9:30 am

If a Steamer Trunk is something you could see in your home, then why not use one that is more than just a trunk? Steamer Trunk Office-$2995 If you work from home, then you know how hard it can be to stop working. There is always one thing you remember to do, even if you are in your pajamas and ready for bed. With a Steamer Trunk you can easily close up shop, but literally closing the trunk. Some interesting facts about this steamer trunk: Handmade Comes with magazine file holders Comes with Storage drawers Made of scratch resistant leather Has wheels and closes easily No two trunks are the…
The Offices of One Work Place

The Office Stylist

5 Feb 2010 | 12:30 pm

Last week we got an inside peek at Google’s Offices, which were designed and furnished by One Work Place. This week we take an inside look at the company behind great office design. It’s no surprise that the team behind amazing office design, would have well designed headquarters too. Their office seems, large, grand, artistic, modern and very very unique. If you have a stylish, modern or cool office you want to feature on TheOfficeStylist, or you need help transforming your space, please email us at hi@theofficestylist.com. Located in LA? We’d love to stop by and take photos…
Lap Desk Tray: A relaxed version of the office

The Office Stylist

5 Feb 2010 | 11:57 am

In order to be productive and move forward with your work or business, you need to have a set work environment. From time to time you can work out of coffee shops, or out of your bed, etc. However, in order to get work done on a continual basis, it’s best to have a designated work area with a desk, comfortable chair, and good lighting. But have you tried to work out of your bed or on your living room floor before? It’s not very comfortable and not very efficient either. So when we discovered this Lap Desk Tray, we were more than thrilled to share it with you all. Lap Desk Tray…

Home Interior Design Themes
Pod Stool With a Hole in the Middle Made from Monkeypod Wood

interior designer

9 Feb 2010 | 8:32 am

One of my favorite types of wooden stool is the pod stool which can be seen in the picture below. It combines the natural elegance of grained monkey-pod wood with contemporary and skilled carpentry. As anyone who is aware of British sculptor and photographer Andy Goldsworthy’s work will know, sculptural forms made from natural and found objects tend to be some of the most beautiful furniture pieces around. This pod stool with a hole in the middle is indeed appealing. The pod stool is made from monkey pod wood which originally comes from Central and South America. However, over the…
Wooden Meridian Wine Curio With In-Built Thermoelectric Wine Cooler

interior designer

8 Feb 2010 | 7:53 am

If you’re looking for a wooden wine curio cabinet that will compliment the existing décor in a wine cellar, dining room or kitchen, then this wooden Meridian Wine Curio with an in-built thermoelectric wine cooler might be just what you’re searching for. As one can see from the picture below, this wine curio cabinet has a variety of compartments that will benefit the complete wine storage, serving and drinking experience. The wooden wine curio cabinet is in oak and has a slim width meaning it can be placed in a multitude of possible locations depending on existing placements and…
Matchstick Sculptural Floor Lamp for Leaning Against a Wall

interior designer

7 Feb 2010 | 4:49 am

If you’re looking for a contemporary lighting instillation with a difference when this matchstick sculptural floor lamp for leaning against a wall is certainly a fixture to consider. It’s unique as well as eye-catching and has an aura of Alice in Wonderland charm and fantasy. This type of floor lamp will work well in a variety of interior settings ranging from the minimalist town house to the bohemian artist’s studio apartment. The matchstick floor lamp sculpture is made up of a wooden stand with a plastic tip on top. When the floor lamp is lit, the light in the plastic tip…
Beautiful Quilt Fronted Chest of Drawers With Patterns of Nature

interior designer

6 Feb 2010 | 11:05 am

Storage furniture is usually of a wooden or metal nature and can be quite bland. However, this beautiful quilt fronted chest of drawers is anything but ordinary and is as eye-catching as it is unusual. The chest of drawers consists of 20 drawers and 2 doors, each decorated with a front of quilting patterns symbolic of nature and indeed farming. If you’re looking for a storage item of furniture with colorful decor, then this Jean Chest of Drawers is one to be considered. There are 4 different patterns to the quilting on the front of the drawers and doors. Three are inspired by the flora…
Go Green Doormat With Recycle Symbol for the Environmentally Aware

interior designer

5 Feb 2010 | 10:16 am

If you’re looking for a green doormat which symbolises your concerns over the environment then this green recycle symbol doormat might well be what you were after. The mat consists of a simple design but with a clear message to guests and family members alike. Placed by the front or back door, the ‘Go Green’ doormat will add an attractive color to the floor area as well as identifying your views on the environment. The green doormat is made from environmentally friendly materials. As well as this, the coloring is composed from the latest fade-resistant dyes which means the…

Modern Designer Furniture Blog
The Ego Paris Tanderm Sunlounger

4 Feb 2010 | 1:41 am

With spring on the way its time to look at designer garden furniture.Here is a great example of one such brand and one double sunlounger.Ego famed for its outdoor furniture has the Tanderrm range which include this double sunlounger perfect for the patio or next to the pool..As always its come in an array of colours to suit your needs.Check the Ego Sunlounger and other items from Ego Paris
Together we can

12 Jan 2010 | 1:00 am

I do think Dust Furniture is a funky brand.The Together we can is just one of the many crazy ideas to come from the Indiana studio.How to describe the together we can? well is a side draws plus a side table with shelves and a side cupboard all stacked on top of each other.The range reminds me of the Adams family with almost gothic shapes.Dust Furniture describes themselves as "abstract traditional furniture" which I sort of agree with but adstract modern furniture works for me too.See the Together we can here: http://dustfurniture.com/work/df1120.htmCheck out the full range here:…
Bouloum Chaise Olivier Mourgue

8 Jan 2010 | 1:29 am

Designed in 1968 by the French born furniture designer Olivier Mourgue the Bouloum chaise show the mix of Olivier training.Educated in France, Finland and Sweden which can be seen in all the designs.Organic forms including this Chaise is the shape of a human is Olivier focus.Sadly no long produced but you can check out the others design for inspiration here: http://www.oliviermourgue.com/
The Meritalia Prosciutto Sofa

7 Jan 2010 | 5:10 am

The Prosciutto sofa is an amazing looking modern sofa.A touch of 70's retro shapes sort and space age. Designed by Marc Newson for designer furniture brand Meritalia.The entire range of Meritalia is simply iconic in modern design.Its will worth checking out the entire range and i'm sure to blog more form Meritalia in the near future.Checkout the Meritalia site here : http://www.meritalia.it/index.php?l=enSee the Prosciutto sofa
Float bed from Max Longin

19 Dec 2009 | 3:04 am

A very funky and contemporary bed called the float.Design Max Longin only has this bed and a chair currently on his site and well worth checking out and keeping an eye out for future design.The bed is suspended stainless by four steel cords which is what gives it the effect of floating.Find out more http://www.max-longin.com/en/float/float.php

Stylehound
Start Me Up! - Part 11

Wedding Belle

8 Feb 2010 | 10:01 am

Today we are talking photographers! This is an extremely important vendor and you should be sure to make many different contacts in this field. More so for some than others, the style and price range for good photographers can vary widely and by several thousands of dollars. You want to be sure you have a good selection of competent photographers to offer your clients in their price range and preferred style of photography (photojournalistic, formal, etc). Additionally, personality is a very important element here as the photographer will be privy to and responsible for capturing very…
Bringing Nature Indoors

alexia rossetti

5 Feb 2010 | 2:34 pm

Anyone who loves the great outdoors may want to bring some of it indoors. Tucker Robbins introduced his very organic furniture to the delight of many nature lovers. Robbins traveled around the world, choosing from native cultures the best sustainable materials to create his furniture. On our cover, is the tongue-in-cheek Human chair, also made from recycled hardwoods and ebonized to a dark finish. Much of Tucker Robbins designs have a primitive look but with a sophisticated edge. Below is the Tokuro armoire made by natives of the Philippines. Its doors are made from sustainable rattan and…
DIY Wall Art

Caroline Wolfe Papocchia

5 Feb 2010 | 2:17 pm

What if you love the look of wallpaper but either can’t afford it or don’t want an all-over look? If you are even a tiny bit crafty, you should indulge in the art of decorative wall stenciling. While flipping through the latest issue of Readymade magazine, I was stopped short by a tiny DIY-story about wall stenciling contributed by Ed Roth, a very hip stencil designer and author of the book ‘Stencil 101 Decor.’ The project - a simple gold honeycomb design on a turquoise wall - looked so clean and cool. Intrigued by the possibilities in my own home (there is a wall in…
Start Me Up! - Part 10

Wedding Belle

1 Feb 2010 | 9:08 am

We now find ourselves thinking about questions you can and should ask a catering company. Keep in mind that while many people have their receptions in catering, banquet or meeting halls that have their own in-house catering, still just as many celebrate at a location that requires an outside catering company to come in and service the event – this includes outdoor, tented and home weddings. Additionally, many venues allow an outside caterer even if they have the ability to cater the event themselves; this is especially helpful when your client has specific dietary restrictions, ethnic…
Chinese New Year 2/14/2010

alexia rossetti

28 Jan 2010 | 1:10 pm

What does one do for Chinese New Year: Read below: BEFORE Chinese NEW YEARS EVE Clean the entire house to get rid of any ill-fortune associated with the past year and make room for incoming good luck. Pay all your debts Resolve differences with relatives, family members, friends, business associates Prepare meals for New Years Eve and New Years Day Decorate your house with plastic firecrackers to frighten away evil spirits and the bad luck they might bring. Decorate your home with live blooming plants to symbolize rebirth and new growth. Display oranges and tangerines to symbolize abundant…

Styleture
New Monopoly Game Design – Does it Deliver or Disappoint?

admin

5 Feb 2010 | 3:03 pm

We don’t normally blog about the designs of board games, but since Monopoly is the most famous board game of all time and has somewhat its root in different real estate “properties” we thought we would use it as a perfect way to start the weekend. The new Monopoly board is circular, doesn’t have paper money but debit cards instead, and when you pass go you don’t get a measly $200, but $2,000,000 to account for all the inflation and the change in real estate prices since 1935 when Monopoly was first released. What do you think of the new design of this game? Do…
Designer Fireplaces Just in Time for Epic Snowstorm

admin

5 Feb 2010 | 2:08 pm

As the Eastern US braces for what some news outlets are calling “Snowmageddon” and a “Snowpocalypse” people are going to be looking for ways to enjoy their dwellings, while staying warm. We thought what better way to stay cozy during this weekend’s snowstorm than enjoying one of these amazing fireplaces?!?! Click any image to view a larger version. The Zeta fireplace by EcoSmart has been one of the hottest designs in the past year or so (no pun intended), winning awards for its design which is crafted from timber, leather, and stainless steel. This design was…
Swiss Engineering with Italian Style

styleture

4 Feb 2010 | 11:31 am

Widely recognized as the most innovative structural designers in the world, the Swiss revolutionized the engineering field by creating new forms that integrated technology and aesthetics. The art of Swiss engineering lies in seamless precision: combining the methodical, the understated and the efficient, to create functional, cutting-edge designs. Fuse the accomplished engineering standard of the Swiss into the diligent and tailored accuracy attributed to Italian manufacturer MGS’ designs, and the result is the perfect contemporary creation. Brilliant in its final form; the simplicity,…
Handcrafted Italian Lighting Collections

styleture

29 Jan 2010 | 9:03 am

Studio Italia Design is based in Venice, Italy and is a fine lighting product manufacturer that lives the nature of their art. The company is made up of artisans and craftspeople working in studios teeming with liquid glass and metals, designing spectacular hand-blown glass products; from the grandest chandeliers to the most perfectly appointed wall sconce. The art of glassblowing is alive and well in Venice, as it has been for centuries. At Studio Italia Design, each customized lighting fixture produced reflects the artistic spirit of the talented craftsmen who conceive and create these…
Philippe Starck’s Revolutionair Wind Turbines

styleture

28 Jan 2010 | 4:49 pm

The green movement has just gotten a boost from one of the most famous designers in the world. Philippe Starck has teamed up with the Italian manufacturing group PRAMAC to develop the first designer wind turbine designs for home use. The turbines come in two designs, and will produce 400 watts of power and 1 kilowatt of power. They will cost $3,495.25 (2,500 euros) for the smaller “quadrangular” turbine and $4,893.35 (3,500 euros) for the 1 kilowatt “helicoidal” turbine. These designs comes on the heels of the ultra-famous designer denouncing design and his works and…

World Interior Design Network
BDP’s Victoria Square regeneration scheme scoops top planning prize

8 Feb 2010 | 10:30 pm

UK-based international architectural firm Building Design Partnership’s (BDP) Victoria Square regeneration scheme in Belfast, UK has won the RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup, the UK’s top planning prize.
Richard Rose Morton Academy in UK exhibits ‘butterfly’ plan

8 Feb 2010 | 10:30 pm

Enabling works have begun on Richard Rose Morton Academy in UK, designed as a ‘butterfly’ plan by UK-based architectural practice Building Design Partnership (BDP).
Systems Design wins Army contract

8 Feb 2010 | 8:52 pm

Systems Design, a US-based company, has won two contracts worth $12 million to provide and install furniture in the new Human Resources Center of Excellence at Ft. Knox.
Joseph Cole Recreation Center to undergo renovation

8 Feb 2010 | 8:44 pm

Joseph Cole Recreation Center in the US will undergo renovations after the ground breaking ceremony by Adrian M. Fenty, mayor of Washington DC; Allen Y. Lew, executive director of the Office of Public Education Facilities Modernization; and Jesús Aguirre, interim director of the Department of Parks & Recreation.
Schöpfer Yachts launches Infinitas

8 Feb 2010 | 8:03 pm

Schöpfer Yachts, a US–based company has launched the Infinitas – a 300 feet yacht.

Fresh Nest Design
Oilo Nursery Decor

deb

9 Feb 2010 | 8:50 am

These lovely images appeared in my inbox this morning. And I said, “Oh, my heart, be still.” {Glider with pouf footrest and pillows} Have I told you that my son is turning 2 this Friday? He is and I couldn’t be more happy. Now if I could just figure out a way to cure my longing to have another baby. Yes, there’s an easy cure for that, I know. In due time, in due time, my friends. {Modern Berries set with double cylinder light and glider} Don’t you love this nursery set up? It’s all Oilo. Oilo was founded by Annalisa Thomas to offer a…
Monday Redesign: Master Bathroom

erin

8 Feb 2010 | 7:21 am

We focus a lot on living room and bedroom redesigns but not too much on bathrooms! Especially master baths. Usually this is one of the only areas that parents can have true privacy, so why not have one that you LOVE to be in? 1. Helsinki Wallpaper from Graham and Brown 2. Floor Tile Viridian Industrial Tile from Modwalls (made from recycled glass) for the floor and walls. 3. Double Vanity from Overstock.com 4. Poured concrete tub from Stone Soup Concrete. 5. Rug from Rugs-Direct 6. Frosted Glass lighting from Lamps Plus
Unique Home Inspiration-Mountain Getaway

erin

5 Feb 2010 | 8:40 am

This is a mountain home high in the Catskills mountains of Kerhonkson, New York. Couldn’t you just live there all the time? I love the roof! It funnels all the rainwater into a central runoff point, which happens to be on some boulders, so when it rains they get a beautiful cascading waterfall! It’s something simple, but you can tell that the designers/architects put lots of thought into the design and placement of the house on the site. One of the best things about it…it’s actually a prefabricated home! All the walls and panels for the home were build off…
One Fresh Nest: John & Valerie Telford

deb

4 Feb 2010 | 11:00 am

One Fresh Nest is a feature that we have on the site where we highlight a home that is beautiful and inspiring. Today’s Fresh Nest is John and Valerie Telford’s home. They collaborated together on the renovation and design of their home and John did most of the work himself over 9 months. John is a Visual Arts Professor at Brigham Young University and you can see his talent in his photographs here. I have a special place for them in my heart as they are my husband’s aunt and uncle. And the fact that they have style and an eye for design makes me love them that much…
Inspiration: Jewelry for your table

erin

3 Feb 2010 | 7:55 am

I like to think of flatware as jewlery for you table. It’s the part of your place setting that sparkles and shines! Lately I’ve been noticing lots of great silverware popping up! I’m loving some of these super well designed, clean, and modern place settings! Monagh Set from House of Ireland Arctic Flatware from Crate and Barrel Gense Flatware from All Modern

bldgspace
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5 Feb 2010 | 1:07 am

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4 Feb 2010 | 11:40 pm

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selectic: homeporn: pictureperfecthome: from the portfolio of...

30 Jan 2010 | 2:43 pm

selectic: homeporn: pictureperfecthome: from the portfolio of Feldman Architecture THANK YOU!! My old gas stove in a modern setting. YES!!!

Subway Tile Outlet: New Products
Tsunami Fusion Glass Tile

25 Jan 2010 | 10:36 am

These unique and enticing glass blends come across the pacific ocean and into your homes to create a new look and exotic feel to any application. The Fusion collection is composed of 13.625” x 10.725” x 8mm thick glass, glass mosaic widths of .5 inch and ranging from 4-7.5 inches in..Price: $19.97
Storm Fusion Glass Tile

25 Jan 2010 | 10:35 am

These unique and enticing glass blends come across the pacific ocean and into your homes to create a new look and exotic feel to any application. The Fusion collection is composed of 13.625” x 10.725” x 8mm thick glass, glass mosaic widths of .5 inch and ranging from 4-7.5 inches in..Price: $19.97
Sand Fusion Glass Tile

25 Jan 2010 | 10:34 am

These unique and enticing glass blends come across the pacific ocean and into your homes to create a new look and exotic feel to any application. The Fusion collection is composed of 13.625” x 10.725” x 8mm thick glass, glass mosaic widths of .5 inch and ranging from 4-7.5 inches in..Price: $19.97
Lotus Fusion Glass Tile

25 Jan 2010 | 10:32 am

These unique and enticing glass blends come across the pacific ocean and into your homes to create a new look and exotic feel to any application. The Fusion collection is composed of 13.625” x 10.725” x 8mm thick glass, glass mosaic widths of .5 inch and ranging from 4-7.5 inches in..Price: $19.97
Ivy Fusion Glass Tile

25 Jan 2010 | 10:32 am

These unique and enticing glass blends come across the pacific ocean and into your homes to create a new look and exotic feel to any application. The Fusion collection is composed of 13.625” x 10.725” x 8mm thick glass, glass mosaic widths of .5 inch and ranging from 4-7.5 inches in..Price: $19.97

Modern Dining Chairs
Modern Furniture Red Leather-Match Set of Six Dining Room Chairs

7 Feb 2010 | 5:37 pm

Dimensions: 22″L x 16″W x 41″H (more…)
Modloft Varick Dining Chair

4 Feb 2010 | 5:16 pm

With its sleek minimalist look, the Varick dining chair will make the perfect addition to your dining room. A noticeably thick layer chocolate leatherette encompasses the backrest, seating area and legs. At a measurement of 19″ x 20″ x 26″, this dining chair is the definition of both style and comfort. (more…)
Modern Classics Moooi Smoke Dining Chair

2 Feb 2010 | 8:50 am

Moooi Smoke Dining Chair is an addition to the popular smoke armchair. The Smoke Chair is finished with fire. The beauty and character of burned wood is now captured in a long lasting material coated with epoxy, creating the strange sensation of sitting on burnt furniture. Seat pad and back support are finished in black leather. Designed by Maarten Baas, 2006 (more…)
2 Cherry Brown Finish Modern Wood Dining Chair/Chairs w/Cushion Seats

30 Jan 2010 | 10:50 am

2 Cherry Brown Finish Modern Wood Dining Chair/Chairs w/Cushion Seats This is a brand new Set of 2 Cherry Brown Finish Modern Wood Dining Chairs with Ivory Fabric Covered Cushion Seats. This set of two chairs is constructed in quality solid hardwoods and comes in a modern design to match the beauty of your dining room decor. Matching dining table and arm chair are sold separately. Item will require simple assembly. Dimensions Measure: 36″H (more…)
Match Chair

28 Jan 2010 | 4:30 pm

The Black Match Accent Chairs offer high quality washable vinyl seats and backs which helps in easy cleaning. An amazing egg shaped back and seat impart more charm into the environment. The modern style of the chairs can complement any living room space. The solid steel chrome tube frame is very durable and long lasting and adds a lot of strength and firmness to the chair. It has black accent feet which adds to the beauty and sturdiness of the chair. Contoured and innovative des (more…)Tarot Readings online by an experienced Psychic