Hooking Up

We've started feeling the crisp Autumn air in the city, a nice and welcomed change from the humidity that Summer often brings. Even though we're going to have unseasonably warm weather this weekend in New York, it's time to start taking the coats and jackets out of hibernation — which brings me to the reason for this post. It's not easy finding coat rack and hook interpretations that are fun and different, especially when they have to occupy precious real estate on your wall. That's why I'm digging these catchy wooden hooks inspired by the high voltage insulators in electrical conductors. The Thomas Alva Edison Knobs were designed by llot llov, one of Germany's most talked-about design studios. Besides providing a nifty place to hang your winter gear, the knobs become a cool-looking sculpture you can showcase on your wall year round.

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TRENDS: Fall Decor 2011

I can't believe how fast time is passing by. It seems like it was yesterday that we were talking about last Fall design trends. OMG, can you believe tomorrow is the first day of Fall already? Unbelievable! The good thing is that there new trends setting the tone for our homes this season. Style at Home magazine has rounded up their top three, and I'm loving them all:

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TRENDS: Fall Colors 2011

As Fall is right around the corner, the new trends for home decor are sprouting everywhere. Interior designer and TV host Nate Berkus yesterday went on the Today Show to share some of the hot colors that will dictate the mood for our homes this season. For instance, Bronze is the new metallic that we'll be seeing in lots of home accents. A hybrid between navy and black, Navy/black is the perfect neutral to bring life to all colors and looks great with any decor in any season. Surprisingly, two greens made the list. Although close in hues, Jade and Asparagus are both beautiful and calming. Last but but not least, Rust is a timeless color that's most characteristic of Fall and brings warmth to any space. Here you have it. Now it's your turn to start getting your pad in shape to welcome this fabulous time of year.

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Warming Trends

Everyone dreams to have the picture-perfect home with a beautiful fireplace in every room, especially when wintery days are almost knocking at our door. But don't feel blue if you don't happen to have that fireplace that you've been longing for. Now you have the option to bring some warmth and ambiance into your abode with these very stylish portable fireplaces. There is plenty where to choose from — some more affordable than others. But the best part of it is that they're vent-free, smokeless and the majority of them are fueled by bioethanol — a wholly renewable source of energy made from sugar, potatoes, beets, corn or other agricultural products (very cool).

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Making it Fall

Image by Richard Powers

My friends the time has come to put those bathing suites and flip-flops away... Fall is fast approaching. I guess we need to start thinking of warming up the decor of our nest, and what better than using nature as inspiration. I've always been a big fan of natural materials as they let us bring a little bit of the outside in. You don't need to go overboard and completely redo your interiors, just adding a couple of key pieces, fabrics and accessories will immediately transform the mood of your pad. All you'll then is a hot cup of cocoa, or tea, to kick back and enjoy this beautiful time of year. Happy Fall!

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