New Traditions, part II

Lena Kroupnik

I can’t believe January is coming to a close – I’m still catching up from New Years! Everything moves so fast..., but at home I want a sense of calm. I love seeing a young person or not so young take an old piece of furniture and update it – like putting Ikat print or leatherette fabric on an antique chair, for example, or paint wood in unexpected color! To me, that transformed piece of furniture would find its way into a traditional home, perfectly balancing past, present and future. Or just imagine a well-made sofa with classic lines—perhaps a track or roll-arm style—in a neutral color with linen textile. You can change the look instantly with bright bold pillows, a throw, or a new rug – now that’s a New Traditional look with a twist!  Here are some other inspiring combinations:

Love the combination of weathered wood finish and bright orange color  http://www.globalviews.com/

  

In the lines of that beautiful bed I see past and future  http://www.hardenfurniture.com

Contemporary version of a classic Gothic armchair in Lucite by Barry Dixon.

Grange has a collection of unique coffee tables in unexpected finishes - that purple is a winner!t and features built-in trays. Adjustable trays are incorporated into the table. A heightened position allows users to work on their laptop or eat dinner while watching TV! http://www.grange.fr/grange/html/accueil/index_uk.html

 
Medley Sofa has traditional lines with overall contemporary look  http://www.kravet.com

Hugo Iron/Leather traditional X-Base Bench in Black &White Hide ; how cool!     http://www.arteriorshome.com

1950's plastic sunburst clock at Miss Pixies  for do-it-yourself personalities - refinish in silver!   

http://misspixies.com

Traditional is never out of style, but timeless.

"Repurposed Goods"

   Post by:

Lana Barth 

 "Repurposed Goods" have been a major design trend for the past few years, reflecting the public concern for our planet;  there was no shortage of repurposed goods represented at the last High Point Furniture Market. I saw most of the following furnishings at Moe's, a showroom that I would describe as modestly priced, youthful, trendy, and socially aware. This first photo is of ottomans casually upholstered in burlap bags. They are fun and earthy, and very eco- conscious.

 

More ottomans, and more repurposed fabrics....this time it's denim and neck ties! Give you any ideas? All you need is a sewing machine and some really old clothes! Also note the tufting with nail heads. Even tufting with rhinestones works.

The "Industrial Look" in furniture is a subdivision of "Refurbished Goods." This collection from Moe's is made of recycled woods and metals with aged patinas. Note the exposed bolts. Big!

This aged metal pedestal is another example of industrial and recycled furnishings. I especially like the way it is paired with a vibrant shiny ceramic vase making each object more important. Opposites attract!

At "Market" there were wheels of all types, but especially bicycle wheels. Could it have some relation to an increased interest in bicycle commuting? Here are more examples of industrial, exposed bolts, and reclaimed woods and metals.

Rustic wall hangings of reclaimed woods and metals....

This large chandelier from Phillips Collection boasts an aged copper patina.

Its scale and color make an outstanding statement.

These are a Few of My Favorite Things!

 Post by:

 Carol 
Freedman

You know the tune! 
Raindrops on roses, and whiskers on kittens...It's been REALLY cold outside, and somehow the wintry chill gets my mind thinking about that delightful old song...leading me to MY FAVORITE THINGS!!!  That being said, I thought that I would take a moment and share some of my favorite things with you! 

My favorite pendant light fixture is called the Sun Suspension Lamp

(available through Carol Freedman Design)....

This table lamp is from Heijden Hume....I just love it!

My favorite coffee table (this week!) is called The Sampler,

which is available through interior designers at American Eye....

My favorite buffet or console piece has to be this one

from Berman Rosetti in Los Angeles...available via designers 

through Willem Smith at the Washington Design Center...

My favorite table linens are from Le Jacquard Francais....

This is just one example of their lustrous color and pattern combinations....

My favorite stylish lounging chair?  Right now I would love to curl up in this magnificent piece from Janus et Cie, which comes in this neutral caramel color, but also in a fabulous citron green....

 A true standout in the custom designed rug arena is Joan Weissman Rugs

 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.   Her designs are magnificent !!!

And this is really a secret, but one of my favorite things, both to give and to receive is.....

Stay warm, and stay sweet!! Until next time....

2012

  Post by: 

Lorna
Gross

 Communication in 2012 is ever so rapid and wide spread that remaining in one’s little cocoon is virtually impossible. We are all now influenced, not just by our immediate surroundings, but by what the World has to offer and design is no different. Interiors today reflect global influences and are much more interesting because of them. Here are a few samplings of work we’ve done recently:

This foyer features mixed materials of metal, travertine, and grass cloth; but the true focal point is the door from the Kashmir region of India.

This living room incorporates many Chinese cultural influences – dark wood, the very important color red, and artwork from Shanghai.  The room is centered by a round table, which symbolizes harmony.

This more traditional room features fabrics rich in Ikat and Suzani patterning, originating from the Middle East and featured above the fireplace is India’s symbolic bird, the peacock.