Monday, November 15, 2010

Small Spaces


Designing small rooms really bring out the creativity in the designer/decorator.  You begin to realize that you really don't need lots of stuff and space to make your home functional and aesthetically appealing.  It's all about the details, texture, furniture and accessory placement as well as the subtraction of certain things.  Here are some great examples of small homes...all cozy warm and stuff.

French Designer Robert Gervais

French Architect, Philippe Harden

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Canvas...Something New That Is New!





I have a thing for antiques and vintage things, however when I discover something new that is "new" and I like it, I just want to tell everyone about it! Canvas, a new shop that just opened last week in SoHo sells "new" home furnishings and accessories.  Now, the reason why I like the store is because most of the collection looks vintage or antique.  And to add, a lot of their inventory is made under fair trade and green principals. One more thing!  Everything looks so classic and refined, its not over the top so you don't have to worry about your purchase looking outdated in a few years or so.  

"Canvas is a journey around the globe that combines natural materials with interesting textures.  Unstructured, soft shapes and subtle colours define a look that is understated yet elegant."

The items below are some of my favorite's from Canvas!

Dog Beds with Running Stitch. $135-$220 

Mercer Tufted Club Chair. $2350 

Recycled Crystal Chair. Set of 2 $480 

 Mirandi bottle vases. $26-$78

Syrian Drinking Glasses. $11-$32 

Hand-Made wood cutting boards. $48-$115

Morrocan Sabre Rugs. $580

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

I See You







For you little peeping Tom's out there.  Michale Wolf's "I See You" exhibit is at Bruce Silverstein Gallery through December 24.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Influencers


INFLUENCERS FULL VERSION from R+I creative on Vimeo.

INFLUENCERS is a short documentary that explores what it means to be an influencer and how trends and creativity become contagious today in music, fashion entertainment and design.

The film attempts to understand the essence of influence, what makes a person influential without taking a statistical or metric approach.

Written and Directed by Paul Rojanathara and Davis Johnson, the film is a Polaroid snapshot of New York influential creatives (advertising, design, fashion and entertainment) who are shaping today's pop culture.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

It's All About the Rug!


Saryk rugs from Central Asia


Rugs at times are an afterthought for some people when decorating a space.  They can be so damn expensive, there are so many different styles and colors to choose from, and they are going to be underfoot anyway, so why fork over the cash for that 8x12?!  I do know that so many gorgeously crafted rugs are unfortunately undervalued.  Who cares if you and you’re guests are walking all over it.  It’s meant to be trampled on, and used.  With time most rugs actually look better with wear anyway.  And, of course it should be professionally cleaned every so often, or after your best friend spills a glass of wine on it!

There is so much to know about rugs:  Their origins, the meanings in the patterns, woven vs. pile, etc.  The search for your perfect area rug can get over whelming and tedious after a while.  I know!  I experience the same thing at times.  If you are looking for a rug that will sustain its value and may increase in worth over time, then seek out a tribal rug.  These are the most sought after rugs in today’s collector market – made by nomadic peoples in Central Asia, Iran, Afghanistan, among other locations.  They are the most geometrical and abstract in their designs. 

Lately, I’ve had my eye on antique and vintage Saryk rugs, made by the Saryk tribe in Central Asia.  They look so modern, full of geometric patterns and bold colors.  In fact, one of my favorite artist’s Paul Klee along with Kandinsky was inspired by these particular rugs.  They are perfect for modern or even traditional or eclectic interiors.  I think this is one of the reasons I appreciate them so much – their style and color make them very versatile.

A rug can give life to a room, and comfort underfoot.  Remember; don’t let your rug be an afterthought.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

The Perfect Collaboration



In 1924, the French designer Jean-Michel Frank partnered with Hermes, and introduced a collection of Frank's signature cubed forms, and classic shaped furniture.  In fact, he invented "classic"!   These classic pieces are being reintroduced to Hermes' new home line, Maison, this month in Paris.  The signature collection will be comprised of the Comfortable armchair and sofa, the straw-marquetry screen, a shagreen-covered vanity and the designer's X-base dining table.  I'm looking forward to the unveiling of this collection.  A collaboration made in Heaven!