Gloomy Times, New Products

This year's International Home and Housewares show was just held in Chicago from March 22 -24 and over 2,000 exhibitors from over 30 countries gathered to show off their new housewares that are guaranteed to make your life just a little more stylish. Here are a few of my faves...

A bowl, a sculpture, a centerpiece...the smaller bowl can actually be a lid too.
Flying Saucer Bowl Set
Museum of Robots
Multi-piece designer bowl set
Price: $145-$250
Availability: June 2009

BYO in Style
Fishnet Wine Totes
Built NY Bottle carriers
Price: $13.99-$16.99
Availability: Now

Nothing's more stylish than being eco-conscious
Recycled PET Felt Collection
Museum of Robots Environmentally conscious bags
Price: $36-$75
Availability: April 2009

Who doesn't love Bodum, and especially anything Bodum and pink!

BEAN French Press
Bodum Coffee maker
Price: $29.95
Availability: Summer 2009

Gravity Grinder
Bodum Salt, pepper, and spice grinders

Price: $29.95 each

Available: Summer 2009

Contradiction...

This vignette appears on the cover of the April/May '09 issue of Western Interiors and it grabbed my attention. I wouldn't say I'm particularly crazy about the 1960's Al Held artwork, the antique Louis XIV settee, or the rug from Creative Flooring Resources, however the composition really caught my eye. I think it is a stunning shot and a well crafted vignette because in all of its simplicity it creates drama and elegance with two main pieces that completely contradict each other and the pointed arch frames it beautifully. The mid-century artwork and the gilded settee play off one another and I think it makes the composition work. I will admit - I do love the pillow made from an 18th century Aubusson remnant. The yellow is perfect.

What do you think? Does the contradiction work?

Hail to the Queen

I first saw Ann Carrington's needlework art in the November 2007 House and Garden mag (so sad they closed their doors) featuring Gweneth Paltrow's Hamptons home and I just fell in love. I am completely obsessed with buttons, especially when they are used in unique and creative ways, and I just love Carrington's tongue-in-cheek ode to the Kingdom.

Make it personal...

I absolutely love finding great stationery, and when it's completely customizable it's that much better. So you can imagine how I just about jumped out of my chair when I discovered Iomoi's great selection of stationery, labels, paperweights, coasters, and trays. What better way to leave a great lasting impression than chic personalized stationery? Plus they make perfect gifts...

New from The Rug Company

The Rug Company has no shortage of colorful rugs in beautiful designs that always make me just a little bit happier. They've just introduced two more from designer Matthew Williamson, inspired by none other than peacock feathers. How fabulous is that!!

Another great find...

I came across Hwang Bishop, an amazing lighting and furniture atelier in Rhode Island, on Shelter's blog (which I also love by the way). I cannot wait to use some of these lamps and side tables in a project! Here are some faves...

Turn up the heat!

Travel and Leisure did a feature in their March issue (yes, I know I'm a little behind) on the newly revamped Fontainebleau hotel in Miami. After a multi-million dollar renovation, this mid-century Miami icon is once again home to all of the glitz, glitter, and glamour that it was during its Rat-Pack days. With guest rooms costing an estimate of $570,000 each, and photos that look like these, I say 'Sign me up, please!'