Archive for the ‘Accessories’ Category

Green is Good.

Wednesday, January 26th, 2011

 

The term “Going Green” typically refers to utilizing sustainable materials in the building process and being environmentally friendly, something most people in Austin care deeply about.  I would like for us to also consider the value of real (not artificial…sorry for those of you who don’t have green thumbs) plants for your indoor application.   We all know that plants help clean the air that we breathe, but did you know that it is advised for you to have one 6″ plant/100 sq. ft. of interior space?  Now, that doesn’t mean that you need to fill your home with pint-size plants.  Consider some tall palms or bamboo.  Besides creating a healthier environment in which to live, plants help to give a space that finished look.  Clearly, artificial has its place in the home (everyday dining table centerpieces, entryway tables, etc.), as well.  Whether arificial or real, plants  soften things up and can really add to the beauty of your interior space. 

 

 

 

Smart Fire

Friday, December 31st, 2010

 

For those of you who long for the warmth that a fire can bring in your home, and don’t want to pay for an expensive remodel, consider the Ecosmart Fire.  These fireplaces do not need to vent, so they can go into any room in the house, without the need for a chimney…a stroke of genius in the world of interior design.  They burn ethanol, clean and hot.  There are inserts that can go into a tradional fireplace or there are stand alone models….there is even coffee table (see below).  If you would like help getting an Ecosmart Fire model for your home, Colby Design.  We’d be glad to help!

 

www.ecosmartfire.com

 

Reinterpretation into Sophistication…

Monday, December 20th, 2010
Check out these porcelain side tables by designer Tucker Robbins.  They are a reinterpretation of the grain bowls that get inverted to become stools during harvest by the Kalinga people of the Philipines.  We would certainly say that Tucker Robbins has done a fantastic job of creating something sophisticated out of such a rustic inspiration.
“To the Trade”
For more information on these or other Tucker Robbins pieces, visit www.tuckerrobbins.com or contact us. 
We’d be glad to help.

A Touch of Whimsey…

Friday, December 17th, 2010

 

Glass sculpture is a great option for that touch of the unexpected in interior design, especially in rooms that are flooded with natural light.  Abstract pieces like the one pictured here could be great as a centerpiece or in a lit niche, as well. 

 

Cabinet Jewelry…

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

 

Choosing the right knobs and pulls for your cabinetry is like choosing the right jewelry.  Your engagement ring, your wedding band, those “wear with anything” earrings that you have come to love.  There are almost as many choices in interior hardware as there are paint colors.  This can be a little intimidating for homeowners, which is why we are here as interior designers…to help you embrace the endless choices that can personalize your Austin home.   Below are some of our picks that could really dress up your cabinetry.

 

Cabinet Pull Italian Renaissance Style

Cabinet Pull by Fersa

www.fersa.biz

 

  hardware

The Decorative Hardware Studio

www.dhshardware.com

1¼“ Square Knob

Du Verre

www.duverre.com

New Reflections in Timeless Porcelain.

Friday, December 10th, 2010

 

When considering contemporary interior design, one doesn’t often think of porcelain, but perhaps we should.  Lladro is a Spain based company that has been creating classic and modern accessories in porcelain since the 1950’s.  Their new take on Rococo style mirrors is fun and creative.  Framing mirrors in lacey porcelain and then placing them in contemporary settings feels unexpected and fresh, which is something that the people of Austin love…the unexpected.

 

 

www.lladro.com

Iron Works.

Monday, December 6th, 2010

 

Philip Nimmo Ironworks is a Los Angeles based manufacturer that creates all things iron for the home.  The company creates beautiful firescreens, as well as other artistically crafted pieces that are eye-catching.  Since Austin’s weather only permits the use of indoor fireplaces for a fraction of the year, why not put beautiful art in place of fire for the bulk of the year?  It can be really difficult to find unique firescreens, but Philip Nimmo has us covered.  For more on his work, visit www.philipnimmoironworks.com.

“To The Trade.”

Minerals For You & Your Home.

Friday, December 3rd, 2010

 

Check out this cool way to look at something old.  Brenda Houston has designed a line of jewelry and lighting that uses minerals in a new way.  We love her use of raw materials to create something unique and edgy for you or your interior space. 

Raw-Amethyst-Ring

 

Sonya-LED-with-Gold-Base

www.brendahouston.com

Solaris Dune Wall Art

Monday, November 8th, 2010

This is an architectural design element for either an outdoor or interior space.  The individual squares could be installed either horizontally or vertically, in a random pattern.  It would be a great focus wall for an entry, dining room, great room, or garden.    You could even make this wall art behind a pedestal lavatory in a powder bath.  Traditional or modern furnishings go beautifully with these Solaris Wall Art Squares from Seasonal Living in Austin, Texas.    www.seasonalliving.com

“To the Trade”