Friday, August 28, 2009

Cameo Pillow Giveaway and Other "Fyndes"



One of my favorite online sources for interior design, "Fyndes," is giving away this beautiful deer cameo pillow by British textile designer Margarita Lorenzo. To enter, simply email your name, city, and telephone number to info@fyndes.com. The winner will be chosen at random and notified on Sept. 20. Below are more pillow selections from this creative UK designer, available through Fyndes. All are handprinted and embroidered on ecologically sound organic cotton - beautiful, AND responsible!

Decorating with throw pillows is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to layer a room and make it feel more "finished." I, for one, have a colorful assortment of silk and artisan-created pillows in my own home that I have accumulated over time, which really brings a sense of warmth and personality to our living space. Hopefully I will get around to posting some photos of my own home soon!


Sunday, August 16, 2009

Innovative Stackable "Totem" Teacups



I love this set of four stackable porcelain teacups from designer Rob Southcott. They would look amazing in a funky Hollywood Regency-style hutch or on an elegant table dressed for high tea. Now all I need is the perfect teapot to go with it....$59 per set at Imm Living.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Fashion-Forward, Fun and Affordable Bedding from West Elm



The easiest way to brighten up an otherwise dull bedroom? Fun, affordable bedding you can change as easily as you change your mood. Mega-design retail giant (and Williams-Sonoma offspring) West Elm is offering several bold, nature-inspired styles this fall to suit any interior. And with the economy being as it is, I'm sure there are some days where we all feel like hiding in bed under the sheets - so they might as well be stylish!

Glam 'N Grand - "Grandis" Large-Scale and Geometric Wall Coverings by Romo




European textile and wallcovering manufacturer Romo introduces their newest line of wallcoverings - "Grandis," contemporary geometrics and large-scale damasks for bold and striking interiors. Definitely not a choice for the timid! These and other striking Romo designs are available exclusively to the trade at various dealers nationwide.

Billy Haines "Bel Air Sofa" by William Haines Designs




Billy Haines is the seminal interior decorator from the 1930's and 40's whose work led to the development of the popular "Hollywood Regency" style of decorating, prevalent throughout many design magazines of late. His "Bel Air" sofa is classic Haines - generous proportions and tufted upholstery conspire to create a signature look that is truly one of a kind. This trademarked reproduction piece and many other Haines classics can be purchased at William Haines Designs and select dealers nationwide.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Marian Jamieson "Alex" Side Table



This Art Deco-inspired side table by Marian Jamieson balances the coldness of polished stainless steel with the warmth of a walnut, oak or mahogany top. Available exclusively to the trade. Custom sizes and finishes available.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Alison Berger "Lens" Sconce for Holly Hunt


Brilliant lighting designer Alison Berger does it again with her breathtaking "Lens" sconce, available exclusively to the trade through Holly Hunt. Best of all, you won't have to wait the usual 12 weeks for arrival; the sconces are in stock and ready to ship through their "quick-ship" program. Contact your design professional for details.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Hand-Made Iranian Felt Rugs by Peace Industry


These beautiful and earth-friendly felt rugs from Peace Industry are hand-made in Iran without the use of chemicals or non-organic dyes. They are made in the ancient and very rare tradition of Iranian wool felting which dates back to the Neolithic Age. This dying art form has gained new recognition with the help of Peace Industry founders Melina and Dodd Raissnia, who sought out artisans in Iran to create rugs of their designs, while insuring that all the goods are produced with fair-trade practices. Orders may be placed directly through Peace Industry; certain styles are also available exclusively at Design Within Reach.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Eco-Minded Brasilian Wooden Bowls by Etel Carmona


These exquisite bowls by Etel Carmona in Ferro wood bear the stamp of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Small Rudá bowl, 11” L x 11.5” D x 10” H, medium Rudá bowl 13” L x 13.5” D x 11” H and large Rudá bowl, 15” L x 15.5” D x 13” H. Beautiful accent pieces for any decor. Available exclusively through Espasso.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

MDF Goes Glam - Eric Slayton's Fine Art Furniture


I have never seen this table in person, but the concept is brilliant, simple and gorgeous: resin-coated chipboard, also known as MDF (an engineered wood product formed by breaking down softwood into wood fibres, used in building construction as a lighter alternative to plywood) with a silver-leafed underside. I was introduced to Eric Slayton and his beautiful line of tables, benches and consoles at Dwell on Design last weekend. Slayton mainly works with reclaimed materials, but in a highly sophisticated and refined manner, with simple lines and elegant proportions. His work is a cut above the other "green" lines of furniture that have been emerging recently. He has no representation in Los Angeles yet, but has an excellent website which shows pieces from his line as well as various commissions. Definitely worth checking out.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Lindsey Adelman Studio - A "Dwell on Design" Discovery


Another discovery I made while on my brief tour of Dwell on Design was the incredible work of Brooklyn designer Lindsey Adelman. Her hand-blown glass and metal light fixtures are some of the best things I've seen in a long time. Everything is made to order, and the lead time is about ten weeks. I spent some time looking at her blog and the creative process behind the work is fascinating. With everything from chandeliers to sconces to light sculpture, the placement possibilities are endless, and their installations range from private residences to a Macy's in New York. I can't wait for the opportunity to use them on one of my own projects! Available locally at TenOverSix.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Dwell on Design - "The West Coast's Largest Modern Design Event"

Dwell on Design at the LA Convention Center ended today, and although I only had enough time to do a quick walk-through on Friday, I did have the opportunity to discover many great products and vendors for the first time.

Ford & Ching (formerly FordBrady) are Willard Ford (son of Harrison) and Andrea Ching. They both have been around the design scene for awhile, and their keen eye is evident in the artisans they represent. I recognized Skram and their beautiful "Wishbone" series of casegoods from a rosewood buffet I had bought for a client last year through a different showroom. They also carry those great funky outdoor "Pod" planters from Pad Outdoor that I see around sometimes, but never know where to purchase.


I was also lucky enough to stumble upon Samuel Moyer. He has been on my radar for awhile because of all the press he's received for his unique, one-of-a-kind reclaimed wood furniture. It's nice to find artisans producing furniture right here in Los Angeles!


And it was such a treat to meet the gals of Amenity Home. Nicole Chiala and Kristina de Corpo are former graphic designers and childhood friends who brought their unique design sensibilites to textiles, creating an amazing line of organic bedding and (because Kristina is a mom too, I guess!) nursery items. I have been a fan of their line for a long time, so it was great to finally meet the faces behind the design. They were launching their new line of sustainable furniture made entirely from vintage hardwoods rescued from Los Angeles demolition sites. "The Muir Collection" is the perfect furniture compliment to their funky textile designs.


This next thing blew me away - my husband and I are in the market for a house right now, so this definitely got my wheels spinning: Reclaimed Space is a sustainable, drop-ready, affordable house made of reclaimed/restored/rebuilt materials, starting at only $115 - $160/SF! Believe me, in Los Angeles ESPECIALLY, that is a bargain!!!! Besides the obvious eco-friendly aspects, I was most struck by the design - they had a 240SF +/- model on display and the interiors were absolutely beautiful! (And much larger than the last apartment I had in New York.)

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Sea Urchin Sugar Bowls - Sweet!


In keeping with the "sea urchin" theme from earlier, these prickly little bowls are sweeter than they look - especially when you discover that the brass interior is lined with a glass insert, perfect for sugar or whatever else you can dish out! Available to the trade at Vagabond Vintage.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Concrete Can Be Beautiful - Sandback Designs


Peter Sandback is a New Hampshire artisan who creates beautiful wood or metal concrete topped tables, cast with a unique polymerized material so they are incredibly lightweight, durable and stain-resistant. The tables come in a variety of finishes, with an impressive choice of concrete colors. Made for both indoor or outdoor use (I purchased them for a client's pool and they've held up beautifully). Available directly through his website at www.petersandback.com

Friday, June 19, 2009

Art by Architects - "Looking for Work" Tomorrow Night at Fifth Floor Gallery


With the housing market in the toilet, out of work architects and interior designers (like me!) have turned to other forms of expression in order to satisfy their thirst for creativity - and to try to pay the bills. (A great discussion on the topic can be heard on KCRW's D&A with Frances Anderton from March 17.) "Looking for Work," premiering tomorrow night at Fifth Floor Gallery on Chung King Road, features three artists in this very predicament.

Earl Parson opened his own architecture studio after years of working for other notable firms such as Marmol & Radziner, among others. His chairs and functional objects, though light and airy in appearance, are constructed with remnants of reclaimed steel construction beams.

Ali Jeevanjee received his Masters of Architecture degree from Harvard University, and serves on the editorial staff of the acclaimed architectural magazine, Archinet. His laminated plywood furniture follow a feee-flowing geometric form while retaining a sturdy and practical structure.

Aimee Less completed her Environmental Design degree at Art Center College of Design, and was recently awarded first place in the DWR M+D+F design competition. Her playful chairs borrow details from the fashion world, melding multiple disciplines to create a cohesive, yet functional, work of art.

Opening reception: Saturday, June 20, 6-9pm
Fifth Floor Gallery
502 Chung King Court
Chinatown, 90012

Ceramicist Creates Objects Derived From Nature


Ceramicist Heather Knight creates beautiful objects with a decidedly "organic" feel, with textures and themes derived from nature. This hand-made porceline "Urchin" bowl is made of high fired porcelain, unglazed on the outside with a translucent icy blue glaze on the interior. Measuring only 5" diameter by 3" tall, it is the perfect cradle for your most precious little things - or the olives at your next cocktail party. Available at http://www.etsy.com/

Thursday, June 18, 2009

A New Take On An Old Favorite - "Kudu" Wingchair from Powell and Bonnell


Canadian furniture manufacturer Powell and Bonnell just released their version of a design classic, the "Kudu" wingchair. Named after a species of African antelope, the chair boasts graceful lines and an elegant shape. A great piece for any style interior. Contact your design professional for details.

Furniture Meets Art - Mauro Mori at Minotti, Los Angeles


Select pieces from Italian designer Mauro Mori will be premiering tonight at Minotti, Los Angeles at 8936 Beverly Blvd. in West Hollywood. I was invited to attend the opening but decided that being at home in my sweatpants in front of my computer was ultimately more fulfilling. On display until July.

Not Just for Children (Or Elves) - Elf Doors!



8" tall resin replica "elf doors." For the child in all of us! At $12.98 apiece, why not get all 4? Available at http://www.hearthsong.com/

The Mad Hatters




Today was Ladies' Day at the Royal Ascot, a five-day horse racing tournament in Berkshire, west of London. Top hats, tails and a mad assortment of millinery provided more entertainment than the actual race!