Natural Markings & Earthenware

You’ve probably noticed that we’re in the midst of an artisanal movement. Superior skills, paired with curation and innovation are inspiring new business plans everyday. Take Specks and Keepings or Small Spells, for example. Both companies are representative of the Makers Movement– one that celebrates handmade, beautiful products, graphic design and playful mistakes. Both companies are based in Brooklyn and incorporate subtle texture and playful patterns on handmade earthenware. It’s fun to follow the creative process on both instagram accounts (here and here)- have a look, it’ll consume and inspire you on this gray afternoon.

November 1, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Steven Shell's Geometric Dresser

It’s rare to see highly decorative furniture in America. We usually keep it plain, simple and modular. Be it Pottery Barn, Design Within Reach, Bo Concept, CB2, IKEA or even Blue Dot, hard surfaces rarely incorporate print and pattern, let alone bold texture. Last night, I came across this Steven Shell dresser on One Kings Lane. I wish I needed it, as I certainly want it. Reminds us of yesterday’s footstool and Moonish’s wall decor. Amazing, right?

October 23, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Accessorizing with Footstools

Snapping footstools isn’t something I’ve really focused on over the past few weeks, though, in reviewing the photos during my last mega laptop transfer, I noticed a small trend emerging. Sadly I don’t have brands to credit (feel free to chime in here!), but I will tell you where I came across these textured jewels.

My husband and I spent the last few days of the summer at The Surf Lodge in Montauk. The furniture, the accessories and the vibe was extremely French (understandably on account of the design direction by Robert McKinley). The driftwood chairs and rattan stool sat outside our room and are a representation of the cultured, curated attitude the hotel emits. Moving into the textile space, the black and white stool from Love Adorned was just one of many special pieces in the Amagansett Square collective. I highly recommend a visit for a home goods refresh.

Then there’s the optic variety. While at ABC Carpet two weeks ago, I happened upon this loud, structured, upholstered piece while exploring the fifth floor. What do you think? In our opinion, adding extra seating in the form of a footrest is the easiest way to zest up your home.

October 22, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Illustrations, Note Cards & Mara-Mi

Abstract watercolors have been in the illustration spotlight since geometrics took a back seat. Proving their weight in gold in the female homegoods market, the notion of luxury, individuality and beautiful imperfection has been a refreshing turn from the preppy rigidness of gridded patterns. Mara-Mi is a line of stationary, table decor and desk accessories that gets this. Their surface patterns are made in-house and speak to the creative, high-spending, free-spirit (hello ABC Carpet, Rifle Paper Co, and Ampersand Design Studio). Their foil-stamped envelope inserts add an interesting accent of luxury to mirror the time investment of writing a note. We’re big fans.

September 30, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Graphic Storytelling & Color Accents

Bold contrasts make incredible statements when striped down to the basics. Just as camoflauge, florals and animal prints are staples, so are colorless patterns. When you add a singular hue to the mix though, you’re setting the mood – red/black/white screams news(!) while a canary yellow conveys alert(!) Eggplant still has a regal feel to it and kelly green feels playful and unexpected.

Last night, while paying bills, canceling memberships, and catching up on articles saved, I also paged through piles of product from Bergdorf Goodman, Madewell, LandsEnd, J.Crew and Anthropologie. These three images sold a story to me: Manolo Blahnik’s houndstooth, polka dotted and striped heels, Proenza Schouler’s textured clutches and Anthropologie’s cotton upholstered Astrid Chair. All loose, lyrical, rigid and of the moment.

September 12, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik

Textiles: When Knoll met Suno

When I see partnerships like this, I get really excited. The product’s excellent, the vision makes sense, and the transition between mediums and industries is seamless…it almost makes me want to push more phenomenal fashion designers into the homegoods realm and champion brands to take a chance beyond their comfort zone.

Dorothy Cosonas of Knoll recently teamed up with Max Osterweis and Erin Beatty of SUNO, to produce a line of literal and abstract patterns for Knoll’s Luxe line. The patterns are sophisticated, delicate, literal, unique and rich with voice and global perspective. I’d love to outfit my apartment in the Piper, Arber and Beso fabrics. Which ones speak to you?

September 4, 2013 | By: Shayna Kulik