Tag: decor

7 Chic French Designs to “Oh La La” Over this Holiday Season

Post author By Nicole Haddad
Post date December 9, 2021

As the holidays approach, design connoisseurs have more grounds to haunt their favorite shops without a twinge of guilt. It’s shopping in the spirit of giving, correct? Whether that giving might entail oneself is a discussion for another day. But this year, we are happy to note that Francophiles will be particularly excited. Emblem Paris—a collection of four French heritage brands—has recently opened its first U.S.-based store in Soho (171 Spring St #2fl).

The intimate boutique space—inspired by a chic jardin in a Parisian hȏtel particulier—showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of the Emblem ateliers: Maison Taillardat, (the brand that tasked to create set pieces for Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette movie); Maison Craman-Lagarde, a marquetry specialist and master cabinetmaker; Vernaz & Filles, specialist in custom gold leaf work and historic restoration; and Manufacture des Emaux de Longwy, the oldest ceramic factory in France.

While we would love to focus on all four houses, we decided to spotlight our favorite holiday gifts from Emaux de Longwy. The history-laden brand’s enchanting savoir-faire when it comes to cloisonné enamel on faience, or glazed ceramic ware, is completely enamoring.

Boule Coloniale + Bougie (Lemon Insect Collection) by Michaël Cailloux
Inspired by 17th century still life’s and Art Nouveau naturalism, Michaël Cailloux created a fertile body of work that includes these finessed beauties.

Pot à Bougie by Nicolas Lequeux
Nicolas Lequeux’s “Art Decool” collection showcases stylized and geometric patterns inspired by the Art Deco period, laden with warm colors that recall the vibrancy of the summer months. It notes Emaux de Longwy’s first collaboration with the designer.

Chou Vase by Pierre Gonalons
With its swirl of sherbet hues and chic French craftsmanship, the Chou vase by Pierre Gonalons is a delightful gift for art and design lovers alike. Fun fact: The vase is currently on exhibit at the Hotel de Sully (a historic mansion) in Paris, making the gift even more splurge-worthy.

City of Stars by Lukas Works
City of Stars evokes the romantic essence of art and its creation, paying direct homage to the magic of Paris and its stars. The artists’ hope was to promote the people who tirelessly fight to inspire us all through the beauty of their work despite the pitfalls of their job.

The Little Prince Oeufs
“The Little Prince” and “The Little Prince and the Fox” decorative eggs not only make for chic stocking stuffers but they pay homage to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beautiful, poetic tale, immortalizing it forever in enamel.

Decorative Candles
From left to right: The falling snow on a midnight blue background that adorns the Darksnow candle by Eric Hibelot was inspired by Japanese prints, specifically those of Hasui Kawase; The perfect gift for those who appreciate enamels, the Heritage candle features a traditional display of flowers enhanced by Longwy gold; The Happy Face candle by Nicolas de Waël is alluring in its simple, joyous nature.

Bishop Stool
The hand-enameled Bishop stool, which India Mahdavi recently festooned in a gorgeous pattern, is available in two colorways: Apple Blossom and PrimaDonna.

Tags Accessories, Ceramics, decor, Emaux de Longwy, Emblem Paris, Francophile, French Design, Gift Guide, handmade accessories, Holiday Gift Guide Luxury, holiday gifts, home decor, Vases

Architecture Art Culture Design Featured Lifestyle Living Music NYC Technology

ART AND CRAFT

Post author By Deb Martin
Post date May 28, 2021

Eschew the production line and choose a one-of-a-kind piece to tie your room together.

KYOTO TABLE

Poltrona Frau revisits the iconic Kyoto table designed by Gianfranco Frattini in 1974. The elegance of Japanese design blends with the rich and tactile qualities of solid wood. The table is crafted with precision dovetail joints, making the craft part of the decorative appeal.

poltronafrau.com

RONDEL PENDANT LIGHT

A simple, yet elegant glass rondel hovers beneath an LED light and copper hardware. This pendant light is also available as a flush mount light or sconce.

tracygloverstudio.com

HYALINE I RUG

Bec Brittain’s Taxonomy collaboration with Edward Fields continues with designs based on the structures and functions of the natural world. Hyaline I mimics the patterns of insect wings writ large. Brittain continues to re-contextualize the science of taxonomy, not as limiting or separating force, but as a means of revelation.

edwardfields.com

CLUB CHAIR

Taylor Forrest designs and produces his furniture in New York. The Club Chair is crafted with vegetable-tanned saddle leather. The sling is fixed to a solid metal frame with an oversized saddle stitch. Hammered brass rivets on the armrests add contrast while keeping the leather in place.

taylorforrest.com

JEFFERSON LAMP

Lodes introduces a crystal suspension lamp designed by Venetian designer Luca Nichetto in honor of the brand’s 70th anniversary. Jefferson uses a reinterpretation of the vortex pattern of Bohemian glass, which casts a swirling play of light.

blightingcollection.com

EASY PEASY

Adds quirky portable style to any room. The rechargeable table lamps from Lodes have a metal base that houses an LED light, and a methacrylate diffuser wrapped by a glass bell. A solid knob functions as a dimmer, and also allows users to control the intensity and warmth of the light.

jblightingcollection.com

TOSS CUSHIONS

From Marimor Objects are ultra-soft and feature contrasting colors and textures, adding a punch of personality and playfulness. Toss is available in five color combinations and two shapes, lending itself to a range of aesthetics and color schemes.

marrimor.com

FACTORY FLOOR photography by Antoine Bootz

RALPH PUCCI INTERNATIONAL introduced a new concept in their Chelsea flagship location, last year. The (factory) collection includes work by Patrick Naggar, Paul Mathieu, Vladimir Kagan, John Koga, and Olivier Gagnere, as well as new exhibits. Many of the works are produced entirely in Pucci’s 18th Street workshop, using techniques and materials born out of the company’s history and experience producing mannequins.

Currently, the floor also houses the large-scale, sculptural wood designs of Stefan Bishop (Orka side table, above) and light sculptures created by Ana Meier and Hervé Descottes for Richard Meier Light (below).

Bishop creates organic forms inspired by the iconic redwoods of his home in Oregon. He works in wood, bronze, and steel, and his pieces beg you to touch them and appreciate the tactile textures that evoke tree bark smoothed and shaped by the elements.

In a limited-edition collection that explores light, color, shape, and shadow, the light sculptures of Meier and Descottes are inspired by the architectural shape of a construction I-beam. ralphpucci.com

Tags Bronze, decor, design, Furniture, home, limited-edition collection t, ralph pucci, ralphpucci, steel, wood

Design Featured Lifestyle Living

Society Limonta’s Tips on How to Design the Perfect Bed

Post author By Nicole Haddad
Post date September 20, 2020

As the cooler months approach, decadent daydreams consisting of lounging poolside or sipping a rosé near the vineyard’s vines are slowly slipping away. Instead, fantasies of ambient fireplaces, plush throws, and cozy, cloud-like beds designed for repose and relaxation are easing back in. Below, we tapped luxury Italian brand Society Limonta for some easy-to-incorporate tips on how to design the perfect bed for both summer and fall!

1) Layers, Layers, and More Layers!

Layering is one of the easiest ways to increase visual interest, combine textures, and add in contrasting colors and/or prints. It’s also one of the best ways to make sure your bed is ready for both a chilly summer night and a warm fall evening. Topping off layered bedding with a complementing throw blanket at the end of the bed is always a nice touch. It can easily be placed aside or brought into use for that extra bit of warmth. Items such as our Ted Throw take up minimal space yet can provide much more warmth than you’d expect from such a lightweight design. Meanwhile, our Multi Plaid throw’s soft alpaca boucle and wool blend body offer’s a bit more warmth and weight for the colder months.

2) Start With The Right Base!

If shades of neutrals are your palette of choice, start with a lighter base sheet and work your way up to the darker colors for an ombre appeal. If tone on tone holds more of an allure, throw in varying textures or gradations of the same shade for a cohesive yet more dimensional look. When introducing a vibrant or bold statement bed cover, make sure to start with a crisp white base. Doing so will make your outer layer pop and serve as the perfect foil. For those that love the surprise unveiling of a fun sheet set, our Raia Bed Sheet and OLS Flat Sheets play well with a large variety of our solids and patterns, yet offer some hidden personality. Fun fact: our garment-dyed REM Fitted Sheets are made of thermo-regulating linen that is ideal for all seasons.

3) Don’t Be Afraid of Pattern

Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns in large or small ways—pattern on pattern can create an incredibly striking look. If you’re new to blending varying designs together, find a unifying element within each pattern. Whether it’s color, scale, or a geometric aspect, find what ties them together and exploit it. The days of perfectly matching are gone—vary the scales of each pattern to draw the eye and create balance. In addition, incorporate solids in complementing colors to create a more harmonious look. Our Ottanio Big Throw and Nite Quilt offer a range of colors to match any aesthetic and perfectly offset any pattern/s.

4) Heap on the Pillows!

Who doesn’t love pillows? A couple of shams, two standard pillows, and two or three throw pillows can add just the right amount of interest and comfort. The more pillows you use, the more you can also play around with color and shade gradations in bedding choices. Pillows also offer the perfect opportunity to introduce a bold new color or a statement-making pattern. Our Nap Bee Set Federe not only plays well with solids but works with a variety of different colorways.

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Tags Bed Design, bedding, decor, decorate, interior design, Society Limonta

Design Featured

5 Bedroom Design Tips from Daun Curry

Post author By Nicole Haddad
Post date July 20, 2020

Since most of us are spending more and more time at home these days, we tapped award-winning interior designer Daun Curry for some advice on how to design a bedroom that feels like a sanctuary. See below for some of her tips on how to create a space that most works for you!

Design by Daun Curry; Photography by Emily Gilbert.

5 Bedroom Design Tips from Daun Curry

“Your bedroom is the most intimate, personal space in your home. It should be a place to unwind, relax, and disconnect from the world at large. The design should also most embody what encompasses a sanctuary to you. While there are a range of tips to recommend when creating your own personal haven—such as investing in luxurious linens and bedding—your bedroom should reflect your personality, unique sensibility, and the colors and design elements that best help you recharge.” – Daun Curry

1) Introduce Elements of Whimsy

If whimsy is what you gravitate towards, embrace it. From light and airy drapes and swirl-laden painterly pillows that recall the colors of the sea to wallcoverings with a sense of movement, these rooms exude a gorgeous flight of fancy. Despite their differing color palettes, each design incorporates layers and gradations of the same color family to create a soothing ambiance.

Design by Daun Curry; Photographs by Emily Gilbert.

2) Infuse Your Vacation Home’s Bedrooms with a Lighthearted, Playful Feel

When you’re on vacation, your environment should reflect your state of mind. Designing for different age groups and/or a personal room or guest room should all take different factors into account. For kids’ rooms, fun furnishings such as bunk beds and geometric rugs in eye-popping, complementing colors are the perfect way to create a playful ambiance. Meanwhile, in a guest bedroom, it’s important to keep an air of sophistication while also instilling a more carefree, insouciant ambiance into the space. Perfectly tailored, layered bedding in shades of sunny colors, a defined area rug, elevated artwork that recalls beach house living, and linen upholstered beds create a picture of relaxation with a big dose of finesse. In the main room, make sure to take advantage of any natural light and the views. Next, focus on comfort—layer your bed in fresh, luxurious bedding, add in bold pops of color, soft carpet underfoot, extra seating, and lighting for all needs.

3) Create a Luxurious Seating Area

Your bedroom should be your escape—so whether it’s a seating nook, window seat, or adding in plush chairs, swivel chairs, or a bench, including this essential element in your bedroom will offer you just that extra bit of comfort. From having a cozy place to perch while getting ready for dinner to curling up in a reading nook or enjoying a morning coffee (or a nightly glass of wine) while in your pajamas, you’ll be surprised at how much enjoyment you’ll gain from this simple addition.

4) Incorporate Texture

Incorporating texture into your design scheme can add visual interest and a sense of warmth—especially when it’s tone on tone. From silk-textured and grasscloth wallpapers, to ceilings finished in shimmery Venetian plaster, metallics, dimensional paintings, and antiqued mirrored furnishings, each well-placed inclusion will add depth, tactility, and a sense of balance. Texture can also facilitate in creating a seamless flow—drawing your eye exactly where it should go.

5) Pattern, Pattern, and More Pattern

Don’t be afraid of using multiple patterns at once—you can easily layer varying designs that work well together rather than fight each other. Unexpected pairings in fashion are considered daring in the most stimulating of ways, and the same can be said when it comes to design. While you might not want to go completely bold and vibrant in the bedroom as lighter colors create a more restful ambiance, differing patterns in neutral shades and lighter hues create visual appeal.

Design by Daun Curry; Photographs by Matthew Sandager (left) and Emily Gilbert (right).

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Tags Bedroom Design, Daun Curry, decor, Design Tips, Designer, Home design, interior design, Interiors, living

Design Featured Lifestyle NYC

Divine Design

Post author By Deb Martin
Post date April 10, 2020

BEFORE SOHO BECAME ONE OF THE PRICIEST –

retail and residential neighborhoods in New York, the large, cast-iron buildings housed factories on the top floors that were used for light manufacturing of household items, lighting, textiles, and fashion accessories. Those goods were then sold in the ground floor retail spaces.

In the 1960’s manufacturing started to give way to artists, who moved into the gigantic lofts because of the tremendous light, and the minimal rents. Though much of SoHo is now more reminiscent of a large, open-air mall, there are still pockets on the outer edges that recall those early days. It is in one of those pockets that Michele Varian has her eponymous design shop.

“I started my business from my loft in SoHo,” says Varian. “I worked as a fashion designer so I wanted to do something that I could self-finance.” Since Varian had fashion experience she had an understanding of textiles and she started with a business that was primarily wholesale. “I started doing these installation-type pieces. I was helping a friend who was getting married in their loft so I made massive cutout scrims that looked like trees and enormous mobiles with transparent and frosted plexiglass discs that reflected the light. I sold those in my first store, but I was mainly doing wholesale business.” Then after September 11, she decided to buck the current trend and open a retail store on “sleepy Crosby Street.”

“I was one of the first retailers on Crosby Street.

I made all of the pillows in the back of the shop, and I hired all of the seamstresses I had worked with in fashion.” Though she had a shop, Varian was mostly still selling her merchandise wholesale to stores like Barney’s, Nieman Marcus, and ABC Carpet & Home. Then the 2008 recession happened and things changed. “My showroom reps in Texas were doing tremendous business for me, and in the beginning of 2008 they abruptly shuttered. They had started to feel the pain from the recession before it happened here.”

In the meantime, ABC asked her to do a pop-up shop, and they placed her in a great location on the ground floor. “Up until 2008, wholesale carried the business, and I was a neighborhood store with regulars, a place where people stopped in to take a break. After 2008, my retail business took off, primarily because I have always had accessible as well as aspirational design. I never wanted to be one of those snobby SoHo shops where the staff glares at customers who don’t have enough money. We always had a neighborhood kind of vibe here.”

Curated Collection –

Michele Varian in her Howard Street shop (Above). Below, leather-clad mirrors and tableware by DBO Home, in front of wallpaper designed by Varian and printed by Chambord in Hoboken New Jersey.

Today, Varian’s Howard Street shop features an extensive, and colorful pillow library in the basement. She also manufactures her own lighting line in the shop and has a line of wallpaper that she designs, which is manufactured in Hoboken, New Jersey. She just started working with Two Trees in Brooklyn to create a furniture line, and designs jewelry and objets d’art, as well.

The shop also holds a beautifully curated selection of items from other artisanal makers like Bloomist, and DBO Home, which is arranged through Guesst, a system of “pop shares” that she created with fellow Detroit native Jay Norris. The system allows existing retailers and small, artisanal brands to connect. “Even doing a pop-up can be wildly expensive for a small brand.

We are hoping that Guesst will help brick-and-mortar stores to survive and still evolve with the changing times.” DT

Editor’s Note: Michele Varian has moved to 400 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217. At the present time, the physical store is closed due to COVID-19, however online ordering is available.

As seen in Downtown Fall 2019

Architecture Design Events Featured Industry News Lifestyle NYC

ADD SHOW 2020 – Heads back to New York

Post author By Downtown Magazine
Post date February 7, 2020

In just a few weeks, the world’s leading brands and top talent will come together in a curated presentation of design, offering inspired vignettes by respected brands, design seminars, culinary demonstrations, and special appearances.

Imagine walking around to see the latest designs from furniture, accessories, lighting, and art to kitchen, bath, and building projects, the show offers thousands of products for you to source and shop, from independent makers and well-established manufacturers.

ADD Show is now in its 19th year and draws around 40,000 design aficionados to interact with incredible design displays from more than 400 brands.

“There are a lot of big brands that you’d expect here, but it’s kind of amazing how many smaller brands you can discover. It’s a free look as an architect at what’s going on in the world of design and what’s emerging right now.”
—David Rockwell, Founder & President of Rockwell Group

“There’s nothing that surpasses the Architectural Digest Design Show in our industry. It is a meeting of great minds, and where our industry comes to exchange good ideas and take-home information that will improve their business. There’s really nothing that tops it. As seasoned as I am a professional, one would think I’ve seen it all, but more than half of what I see [here] I’ve never seen before.”
—Jeffrey Bilhuber, AD100 Designer

Mark your calendars, get some comfortable shoes, get tickets and come to meet Downtown Magazine’s team as this will be our first year as a media sponsor.

MARCH 19-22, 2020

Thursday, March 19: 10:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M. Open to design trade & VIP consumer ticket holders.

Friday-Saturday, March 20-21: 10:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M. Open to all ticket holders.
Sunday, March 22: 10:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Open to all ticket holders.

LOCATION
PIER 94
55th Street at 12th Avenue
New York City 10019

General Admission Tickets

This purchase includes a 2-month complimentary trial membership to AD’s new digital design community AD PRO which includes the current issue of AD Magazine, a $50 value.

Your ticket allows you complimentary access to DIFFA by DESIGN! A three-day confluence of design, art, shopping, and festivities located in a new venue Center 414, 415 5th Avenue. From the opening night DBD Gala to the one-of-a-kind industry chats, DBD will showcase the latest in the design world, all while raising money in the fight against HIV/AIDS. DIFFA by Design takes place on March 26-28, 2020. For more information go to diffa.org.

Valid FRIDAY-SUNDAY
Includes re-admission all 3 days
$32.00+tax
Onsite ticket price is $45.00+tax.

BUY TICKETS NOW

Consumer VIP Tickets

Ticket purchase includes a 2-month complimentary trial membership to AD’s new digital design community AD PRO which includes the current issue of AD Magazine, a $50 value.

Valid FRIDAY-SUNDAY
Includes re-admission all 3 days
$32.00+tax
Onsite ticket price is $45.00+tax.

Design Trade Ticket

Ticket purchase includes a 2-month complimentary trial membership to AD’s new digital design community AD PRO which includes the current issue of AD Magazine, a $50 value.

Admission to the show is complimentary for Design Trade with proper credentials who pre-register prior to March 19, 2020. Design Trade are registered Interior Designers, licensed Architects, Landscape Designers, Set Designers, Developers, Contractors, and other design professionals. Students can register for complimentary admission. Valid credentials are required and include business cards, company credit cards, profession -membership cards, Tax ID. Along with a Government-issued Photo ID.

Valid THURSDAY-SUNDAY
Includes re-admission all 4 days
Onsite ticket price is $45.00+tax.