Skram Furniture, based in Hillsborough, North Carolina, is a fairly young company that was founded in 2001 by furniture designer Jacob Marks.  What is unique to Skram, though, is the fact that Jacob Marks is a self-taught designer and furniture maker.  His pieces are crafted meticulously, and his designs, while contemporary in form, are warm in nature.  Marks was recently named one of the 50 top young designers of the Americas (Young Designers:  Americas, Daab, 2006), and we think his work is beautiful.  “To The Trade”

Check out these great Mid-Century modern pieces by Chelsea Textiles.  Their simple style is classic, but the use of gorgeous blue lacquer is what makes them stand out.  The chair below would be great in a bedroom or a living area, as it could easily bounce between formal and casual.

The credenza below is hand painted and hand made from solid wood.

This table is great for small spaces.  Notice that the chairs fit all the way under the table, and it comes in 2 space-saving sizes:  41″ with 3 chairs or 47″ with 4 chairs.

www.chelseatextiles.com

We have just discovered  a New York based showroom called The New Traditionalists, and we love their line!  They use classic pieces and make them current with textiles and finishes that are fresh and “now.”  Check out some of our finds from their collection.  We love their use of linen with hide, as well as interesting color options for tables and case goods.  For more, visit them on the web:  www.thenewtraditionalists.com .

Nestrest by Dedon has us floored!  This nest-like structure can be hung alone as a private getaway, or can be grouped together to create a truly whimsical place to relax with others.  Here is how Dedon describes their piece:

“An over-sized bird’s nest offering you a secluded, suspended sanctuary and unusual meeting place: it’s the perfect place for relaxation, meditation and open-air conversations.

NESTREST is made of an especially strong DEDON fiber (4 cm wide, instead of 2 cm), guaranteeing a sturdy and solid weave with excellent properties: it shelters those within, allowing them to look out while preventing outsiders from seeing in – a perfect feeling of security!”                                                                                                                       – Dedon

This is a piece that could be amazing on the lake here in Austin for the lazy days of summer and crispness of fall…

For more, visit:

http://www.dedon.de/en/collections/detail/collection/nestrest-171/hanging-lounger-1412/chalk-75.html

“To the Trade.”

The “Tabouret Chevre” bench below is part of the A La Reine Collection by Myra Hoefer Design.  It is inspired by John Dickinson’s hooved tables and chairs, and we think it is both elegant and whimsical…a lot of fun and a truly unique piece.  For more from Myra Hoefer, visit her on the web at www.myrahoeferdesign.com

36″ wide x 17.25 deep x 21 high

$1800

So often we are challenged as designers to find the perfect balance of style and taste for our clients.  We want each piece that we select for a home to be special and unique, but we also want the look to last (i.e. not become dated in 5 years).  Yes, styles change.  And yes, our own taste changes.  But wouldn’t it be nice to find pieces, such as the bed below, that change with the times?  We at Colby Design think so.  The style of this bed can be as different as night and day, with the right linens.

This chair by the Bright Group has us excited.  It is simple and clean and could be used in just about any style of home.  These types of pieces are design essentials.  Their versatility and ability to change with the times (a simple reupholster) make them great selections.  If you are interested in this piece, or any other pieces from the Bright Group for your Austin home, call Colby Design.  We’d be glad to help!

“To the Trade.”

Check out “Jan’s New Sofa” by Netherlands based company, Linteloo.  It is refreshingly charming, and seems to call us to jump in and stay awhile.  What is so great about this sofa is the use of masculine lines (notice how clean the frame is), paired with the fabric flanges that appear almost ruffle-like in nature.  It is casual, but this is a piece that could be dressed up or down…just switch out the pillows, and you are there!