Market Picks

Were any of you at High Point Market this week?

Yeah, me neither.

Something about living in Brazil...

It doesn't matter, though, because a handful of other bloggers and designers got their Instamatic on, and gave us all a glimpse of what we can plan to see in the coming months in terms of furniture, and accessories.

There were some fresh things I was happy to see on the horizon, but a bit surprised that some trends (framed coral?  rustic/industrial?) still seem to be having some time in the limelight.

Here's my pics among the iPhone images,  remember, "Going to Market" is about inspiration...

A tufted, tangerine leather sofa.  Crazy love.

Source: dcbydesignblog.com via Noir on Pinterest

Punch-colored throws over masculine chairs.  Divine.

Source: houzz.com via Susie on Pinterest

Mary Macdonald's line for Robert Abbey lamps - I'd use a pair with a more curvy, traditional console.

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

I sort of sit and stare at this desk.  One of the few glimpses of chrome I saw in a sea of brass and gold.

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

Can you tell I'm drawn to accessories with graphic statements these days?  Ottoman by Barclay Butera.

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

The peacock-blue velvet of the sofa won my heart, but I'm also crazy about the somewhat manly take on the tufts.

Source: mimiandmegblog.com via Dana on Pinterest

Clearly, hides (and even more now) skins are having a moment.  Get thee some.

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

Awhile back, I snatched up a malachite box and lighter for a song.  I doubt the going rate on this amazing tray is quite so kind, but if I were designing your room, you can bet I'd be trying to talk you into it.

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

...and finally, for all of you who loved and commented on the light fixture in this post, here ya go:  The Meri Drum for Oly Studio

Source: Uploaded by user via High Point on Pinterest

Trendspotting: Curvaceous-Legged Tables

This elegant, warm, and feminine office featured in the latest Traditional Home stopped me in my tracks. Specifically, that desk! With its exaggerated, bulbous legs. What a brilliant way to feature such striking curves; to set the dark silhouette against the glowing backdrop. I immediately coveted it.

Source: google.com via Alison on Pinterest

Interior Design by Julie Kays for the 2011 Pasadena Showcase House

... and look! The same piece turned up a few pages later in this room designed by Mark Williams.

Source: traditionalhome.com via Alison on Pinterest

In fact, these curvaceous models are popping up all over the place. A more rustic version:

Source: traditionalhome.com via Alison on Pinterest

So, where's a gal to source one of these lovelies? This version on Alice Lane is pretty, but will set you back nearly two G's. Pretty, but no can do.A quick search on Ebay yields some styles with potential. I'd touch this one up with a darker stain, and drop the leaves down to use as a great entry table for a small space. Still, it's more barley twist than truly curvy.

I think you could really work some magic on this small, corner version - Buy it Now for SEVEN DOLLARS, people!

Again, this one doesn't offer the same unique silhouette, but I do love the ebonized finish.

Not quite the perfection I seek, but totally do-able, and I trend I can certainly handle more of.

Drinking and e-shopping...

Looking to re-create something like this...

Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via Alison on Pinterest

I'm thinking this...

Plus any of these...

Can't decide? Me neither.
All available here.

Brazil: Mix Masters

Over the last two years, I've tried to become a student of Brazilian design. Well, if not a student, then at least a keen observer. What I've taken away is that the Brazilians command the skill of mixing traditional and modern styles, and they do it with effortless panache! It has made me rethink my aesthetic, and crave a touch of modern in my own home.

Look closely, and you'll see recurring themes: a love of all things Eames, posh-Euro-traditional lines, GORGEOUS wood floors, and a large dose of irreverence.

Mix 'n Match chairs 'round a table are one of my newest obsessions - second only to the settee and chairs combo.

In fact, I think dining rooms (aka sala de jantar) offer a prime opportunity for mixing styles.

Did you notice, too, that natural light is a key styling ingredient? Yes, the sun shines brighter down here. Noted: Bare brick and tulip table. Yum.

Two years ago, I would've passed over this golden damask-futon-room with a brisk "Ugh." Now, I've studied it and love it! I keep thinking how beautiful everyone's complexion must be, softened by all that warm, gold light.

Ethereal, no?

Are you a rather traditional person who is opening up to a touch of modern, too? I say roll with it!
*images via here

New Releases: Penguin Classics

Those of you who, like me, count yourselves among the devotees of Penguin's oh-so-designerly Classics collection might be happy to know that you can pre-order the latest releases for a nice discount from Amazon. The offerings include: The Odyssey, Lady Chatterley's Lover, Emma, and Treasure Island (my fave with the palm & parrot design!) *Click on images for links



























Penguin is releasing the titles on March 10, so I imagine the pre-order discount is available 'til then. Trendy as the collection may be, you must admit, their collectible status is likely to endure. Read on!

Kitchen Disguised As...

Over the last couple of decades, we've seen kitchens become the clear winner of the Best All-Around Room award. Home construction and remodelings have functioned on the basis of knowledge that families desire, nay, require the kitchen to be large, open, and often a part of the grander family spaces.

More recently, key design elements of the kitchen have also adopted a less traditional stance. For example, we've seen the move to more open shelves and free-standing storage in lieu of blocks of installed cabinetry. Fixtures and hardware have become seminal design decisions too, as they play key roles in providing beautiful form, not merely function to a great kitchen. (A mere five years ago, I discussed the placement of recessed lights during our kitchen redo, but never gave a moment's thought to amazing pendant lights!)

There's more, though...smaller touches being used to blur the lines between kitchen and "other room?" I'm seeing fine rugs, mirrors, art and graceful chandeliers. It makes me think that perhaps homeowners want their kitchens to feel like so many other rooms they either don't have, or wish they could spend more time in.

The rugs and window treatments in this eat-in kitchen make it feel more like a family room.

Rolling ladder, vintage brass fixture over the island, and a perfect little reading spot? Clearly a nod to the library.

The combination of the metal bistro chairs, open shelves lined with simple glass jars, and classic barn lights makes me think this person would like to spend more time in their potting shed.

I love this kitchen. I'd venture to guess they either own a bistro, or would like to. Look at the classic elements: bar-like brass railing, a cozy banquette with a giant mirror overhanging. Not to mention that great collection of whiteware displayed. Chances are, they've also been to Paris!

Pendant lights over islands have taken on a design life of their own, but these polished nickel beauties make such an elegant statement. You'd usually see something like this relegated to a formal dining room, but why? If the average family's lifestyle resonates, then this pair of pretties will provide much more visual enjoyment in a more-used place.

These three kitchens are great examples of bringing mirrors and art into the kitchen. I rarely cast doubt on the use of mirrors anywhere, and having one reflect an already-enjoyable space is simply spectacular!

The much-blogged about kitchen by Richard Norris and Mark Leslie, that incorporated an antique French mirror above the stove. The designers had the specific intent of making the kitchen look more like a formal dining room.

They continued the vision with a grid of artwork around the sink area - a clever replacement for a window, I feel.Another take on a large scale mirror in the kitchen

And a more intimate mirror/art combo

If you feel your kitchen is less-than-ideal, consider bringing in items not traditionally placed in a cooking space. Surrounding yourself with items you treasure should be a house-wide endeavor. Happy Rearranging!!

Photos: Barbara Westbrook, Katie Ridder, source unknown, source unknown, Tim Clarke, Norris & Leslie, HB

Birds of a feather

Over the last few seasons, we've seen a noticeable nod towards all things avian, most recently the seeming design love affair with all things peacock. I'm a two-time bird owner, so I've enjoyed this trend. My fave: birds of a tropical feather. Granted, one must be careful when selecting anything parrot-esque, as many items quickly fall into the category of bad and/or touristy kitsch. However, I was delighted when I recently spied a handful of decorative items featuring my favorite plumed friends.

Williams-Sonoma Home first caught my eye with this set of tropical bird prints

Upon further research, though, I found a wonderful (and much more affordable) assortment of similar prints available at art.com

Speaking of art, can you imagine how cheery a collection of these colorful, Panamanian molas would be in an otherwise white space?  I see possibilities for a child's room, too!

Accent pillows are always a great way to incorporate a look that might be deemed trendy.  

This handpainted toucan pillow from John Robshaw's collection via HSN has me a wee bit giddy!

WSH offers a more subtle color palette, perhaps a nod towards a Colonial Caribbean garden?

This unique ring-bearer's pillow would be a perfect touch for a tropical, destination wedding!

If you like a touch of the tropics, but still favor a neutral color scheme, this ceramic pair of parrots from ZGallerie might be just for you!

...And, who could resist a little anthro avian love, in the form of a cute dishtowel?

Ben and I have a running joke about these carved-gemstone birds - they are ubiquitous in Brazil - and definitely fall into the touristo category, however, something tells me, before our tour is complete, you'll see one appear at Casa Giese ;)