LOCAL MATTER

This past Sunday was such a gorgeous day we took a drive upstate to get away from the city—at least for a few hours. Of course we also took advantage of the day trip to search for some of those wonderful hidden treasures the Hudson Valley has to offer. And what a treasure we found as we walked into Materia Locus (Latin for local matter) — this amazing barn-turned-showroom/gallery with a beautiful collection of furniture, lighting, art and the most incredible industrial antiques from the area. Megan Summerville and Matt Ensner merged their expertise in fashion, movement arts, environmental conservation and landscape design to create this artists' co-op and home design store “born out of their quest for specialized objects that compliment and highlight their eclectic approach to living.” It was truly an unexpected treat to come across this new gem, especially after chit chatting with Megan for a while and getting to know a little bit about them and their cool design vision.

Click to read more ...

INSPIRED BY THE PAST

I'm always fascinated to learn how designers come about their wonderful creations. A few weeks back I visited my dear friend and talented designer Deborah Ehrlich at her gorgeous Hudson Valley farmhouse (which I featured here) and had a glimpse at one of her new pieces — the Crystal Jelly Jar Shade. Although she's mostly known for her paper thin, clear-as-water, and absolutely flawless crystal glassware, Deborah thought it would be cool to venture into the world of lighting. Her inspiration came from the ingenuity of farmers who back in the days transformed basic jelly jars into impromptu shades for their lighting fixtures. Her classy version is meticulously hand blown in Sweden and is a testament of the purity and delicacy of her work. So guess what? To celebrate the start of its production Deborah is having a launch sale on Fab.com through this Thursday (hurry, time is runnin out). The lamp iincludes the ceiling fixture with porcelain base, patinaed brass fittings and the crystal jelly jar shade. I'm beyond-words thrilled to see the final product come to life.

Click to read more ...

EFFECTIVE SIMPLICITY

I always find that the simpler the object is, the more beautiful its design tends to be. Take for instance this minimalist Clamp Lamp designed by Swedish architect Andreas Martin-Löf. By simply using off-the-shelf lighting parts and attaching them to a handmade metal clamp, Andreas created a wonderfully cool and stylish table lamp. I'm telling you, it's all in the craftsmanship and details. I'd say this is my crush of the week.

Click to read more ...

CAMPY AND FRESH

I know it's too soon to be thinking about beach weather, but I guess it's my wishful thinking that inspired me to feature this fun collection of outdoor furniture by Colonel. I love every piece in the collection but I'm particularly taken by the new Caracas chair—a fresh and contemporary version of the 60's camping chair. Besides looking comfy and inviting, the chair holds a special place in my heart because it shares the name of my birth city. (I thought you'd enjoy that bit of trivia). Happy weekend!

A TOUCH OF VINTAGE MODERN

I'm glad I stumbled upon these wonderful swinging wall lamps created by Logan Hendrikson from Onefortythree. Logan started designing and building furniture and lighting fixtures for his own house to later launch his online shop where he sells his mid-century inspired collection. His lamps are hand-bent and welded with durable powder coated finish in matte black or gloss white. The sockets are made of real Teak or Walnut wood veneer and wired with a cloth twisted cord to give it that vintage feel. I'm really liking the simple lines of these lamps. They're perfect if you're looking to add a little bit of industrial chic to your home.

Click to read more ...

A BRIGHT DECISION

Lighting is very important when putting together a room. As a matter of fact, selecting lamps for your decor is as important as choosing any piece of furniture, so include in your design plan from the get go. Floor lamps are particularly wonderful choices and can make great statement pieces in a living room. Dare to play with the size of the lamp to create contrast and a focal point in the room. Here are some amazing spaces with unique floor lamps that will inspire you next time you're in the market for a one. Which one is your favorite?

Click to read more ...

THE RUB OF THE GREEN

Is your home styled to a T to welcome the New Year? It might be time to rejuvenate your decor with a lively, radiant, lush Emerald green–chosen by Pantone as Color of the Year for 2013. Most often associated with brilliant, precious gemstones, the perception of Emerald is sophisticated and rich. Since antiquity, this luminous, magnificent hue has been the color of beauty and new life. The jewel-like tone will create a luxurious feel in any room. Just add a splash of it with accessories or small pieces of furniture to infuse a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation to your home. Here are some stylish, on-trend accents that will help you create your own Emerald City. Watch out Oz!

Click to read more ...

LOADED STATEMENTS

I'm not in favor of gun possession at all, but this handsome slip-cast ceramic lamps are worth the exception. How fun are these 9mm and AK-47 lamps? Handmade by Ryan Weigner from Loaded Objects Ceramics, they're seductive and thought provoking pieces that will make a striking design statement in any space. I can see a couple of these quirky AK-47's on my night stands—they would look amazing.

Click to read more ...