My Latest Purchase - Zebra rug

Well you can probably guess that I tire of my decor a little more frequently than the average person. Thus I like to change certain design elements that cost wise are easily disposable, yet make a big impact - such as rugs, throw pillows, lamps. So after two years it was time to retire my Crate & Barrel bedroom rug, with this fun 5x8 zebra print from West Elm. And at only $279, it's affordable yet makes a bold new statement!

My Latest Purchase - Throw blanket

So I recently hit up the regulars; Pottery Barn, West Elm and Crate & Barrel, but found my new throw of choice at one of my other faves Restoration Hardware. All of their throws are currently on sale and I couldn't resist the price, silky smooth touch or rich golden sheen of the Solid Sand throw shown in the first pic - matches my velvet sofa perfectly. Can't wait to get wrapped up on cold winter nights :)




www.RestorationHardware.com

Love it! - Zebra needlepoint rug

Years ago, Jonathan Adler had colored zebra needlepoint rugs very similar to these from Ballard Designs. Well the trail blazer made way for these affordable versions that pack a similar decorative punch for a fraction of Adler's price!




BallardDesigns.com - $299-$649

Market Profile - Oly Atelier opening

When I say I had the privilege of attending the opening of the Oly Atelier, that's a HUGE understatement. Hosted by ELLE DECOR magazine, the two-level Flagship located in the trendy NYC Tribeca neighborhood, had me astounded as I floated from one vignette to the next. On my design high, I stopped to take photos of my faves, but these pics capture a mere glimpse into the wonder and fantasy created by Oly's well-curated space. One eclectic piece of furniture and accessory after the next, narrated a story anyone that evening could buy in to - I sure did!




www.OlyStudio.com

Love it! - Nailhead mirrors

Two of my fave design elements - nailheads and a fretwork pattern, in three colors no less! What simply square leather mirrors with awesome detailing you can't ignore - my fave is the brown, which is yours? :)




www.TonicHome.com - 36"x36" $395

Love it! - Gueridon side table

For one of the most classic versatile side tables, you can always go to this well known French Gueridon table. With brass paw feet and granite top, its cross stretchers add wonderful design detail and contemporary appeal.


www.TheSourceCollection.com - $695

Love it! - 5 DAYS ONLINE SALE - GAP, Banana Republic, Old Navy

Up to 25% OFF - CODE "SAVE123" at checkout - Through October 20th Online only!

Love it! - 25% OFF Sturbridge TODAY ONLY!

www.SturbridgeYankee.com

Love it! - Bamboo-look keyboard

OK, I think this is going to be a first for most of you as it was for me - I mean c'mon, forget black or white, a bamboo-looking keyboard and mouse - how genius?!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - $78

Love it! - Fretwork mirror

I've seen many fretwork mirrors, but never round and at only $250 it's definitely extra noteworthy - break up square, angular furniture with a soft-edge mirror like this one!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - Fretwork Mirror $250

Love it! - 25% off RUGBY by Ralph Lauren - LAST DAY!

www.Rugby.com
Use promo code: "PINK" or "RLCCP" or "MATCH" (at checkout for 25% off)
*Free shipping on orders over $150

Love it! - J.Crew insider SALE!!

www.Jcrew.com
PROMO CODE: SHOPFALL (at checkout)

Love it! - Leather chest

We've all seen chests the past few seasons, mostly as coffee tables and while not the most docile looking, this leather dresser with leather pulls and brass corner caps is probably the most well-done incarnation of the "chest" look that I've seen thus far. Use as a console table, or placed strategically in your office or bedroom - it has the Ralph Lauren, "Great Gatsby" look that's oh-so-preppy!



www.PotteryBarn.com - Richmond Leather Chest $1099

Love it! - GAP 25% OFF online through 30th

Love it! - African pattern dhurrie rug

As soon as I saw this rug I almost DIED! It just so happens I'm really into Kuba cloth at the moment, indigenous to the Congo and woven into similar geometric patterns - in earthy tones as they are all naturally died. This Dhurrie rug by WestElm is very representational of African patterns that I'm so loving right now!




www.WestElm.com - Kirabo Dhurrie Rug

Market Profile - Pillow Pagoda

Forget about mainstream retailers and their generic, lackluster throw pillows. I was converted a year ago and now only buy my throw pillows from Pillow Pagoda! Fabulous high-end, "to the trade" only fabrics, you can bet you won't be seeing the same pillows at your friends house. With patterns that we always see in the glossy home magazines, but usually can't afford, they've made chic limited-edition pillows affordable for the masses!









Pillow Pagoda

Love it! - Ikat rug

Usually mainstream retailers, especially those at a more affordable price point won't have the high-end patterns and styles we're so accustomed to seeing at high-end boutiques and trade-only showrooms. But this Ikat rug (5x8 for only $349) is a perfect example of high-style at a low price. Wake up a room with this ethnic pattern that's sure to deliver stand alone power!



www.CB2.com - Ikat Pile Rug - 5'x8' $349

Love it! - White lacquer table

Sometimes there's nothing better than a simple white glossy lacquered table. This basic from CB2.com makes for a great dining table, office conference table or desk. Sleek, neutral, multi-functional and for only $399, how can you afford not to buy it?



www.CB2.com - Bobby Dining Table $399

Love it - Outdoor zebra rug

Though Summer is coming to an end, let's not forget there are areas in the country where outdoor living is year round! All the more reason to fab up your space with this anti-mold zebra print rug - who said your outdoor space can't be just as chic? At the same time, it would be perfect for an indoor office like mine where I have a rolling desk chair. This flat rug will allow for a warm floor and castered-chair mobility, all at the same time!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - Zebra Outdoor Rug $59-$709

Love it! - Braided picture frame

I'm pretty picky when it comes to picture frames. I tend not to like frames that are too ornate, eye catching or thick. It's really more about the photo and while a decorative border would be lovely, one that is neutral in color, monochromatic and one continuous pattern makes for a great back drop. This gold-plated, braided frame by L'Objet gives you just enough design without being overpowering and instead enhances the most memorable of photos!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - L'Objet Gold Braid Frame(S-L $110-$185)

Love it! - Bodum toasters

Known for their French coffee presses, though I don't drink coffee, my friend swears by them - Bodum has expanded their product offerings to toasters oddly enough. Available in four retro-tastic colors, they will make any kitchen counter top sing!

www.NeimanMarcus.com - Bistro Toaster $79.95

Love it! - Gold gourd lamp

OK, so I must say I'm pretty tired of seeing gourd lamps - that is the typical ceramic porcelain variety we've all seen a thousand times. But when I saw this gold ribbed interpretation I couldn't help but take note. I happen to be all about gold furnishings these days - down to my shoes! Glamorous, sexy and perfect for a sensual bedroom, or living room that needs to be woken up!


www.Horchow.com - $375

Love it! - Chippendale planter

The fret work of this mahogany with bun foot planter is to-die-for! Chic inside or out, no need to worry about seasonal weather. On your porch or in your living room, any fauna you place will look all the more regal - what's terracotta? (wink)



www.SourceCollection.com - $650

Love it! - Weave mirror

Wow, this mirror is gorge! - subtle yet love the woven design detail. I'm definitely a sucker for anything with a lattice feel. It's such a classic pattern that gives you texture, symmetry, femininity and enough design interest without going overboard - especially in this case where the entire mirror, including the weave is mirrored. It makes a constrained statement without competing with anything else it might be paired with.


www.Horchow.com - $395

Love it! - Nail head storage cubes

There's nothing new about "nail heads" as they have been adorning furniture and storage chests for centuries, but how they adorn these white leather storage cubes is nothing short of fresh and stylin! Tall enough as side tables - sit books, a small bouquet, tray of candles, or bowl of accoutrement.




www.Horchow.com Set of 2 - $499

Love it! - Pottery Barn baskets

I love nothing more than a uniquely woven basket. Whether it's being used to store wood logs, newspapers, flip-flops and beach toys, or a gorge house plant, generic storage containers are so passe. Find a woven basket that makes a statement with that special woven pattern and silhouette.





www.PotteryBarn.com

Love it! - Metal Mirror

As soon as I saw this metal mirror from Ballard Designs I knew I had to blog. I love the juxtaposition of the soft and feminine design of the flower petals with the hard industrial feel of the metal and rivets. This combination adds real design interest and complexity to a space. Unlikely mirrors are the best way to make a bold statement in a subdued room.



www.BallardDesigns.com

Love it! - Pedestal bar table

I've always loved the idea of having a bar height table in my home - like in a breakfast nook? There's just something fun about sitting on a bar stool and eating at a higher altitude! Personally it reminds me of the high-tables at my local mall's food court. It's kinda like the difference between sitting in a Sedan versus an SUV. It changes your posture and you suddenly find yourself sitting taller in your seat!


www.BallardDesigns.com

Love it! - Ikat tray

It certainly doesn't look like Ikat is going anywhere. Over the past few seasons, from fashion to home decor, Ikat has ruled the shops and runways and for good reason. Its patterns and colors are grounded in tradition yet exude a wonderfully fresh appeal consistent with current trends - Bravo!


www.DecorativeThings.com - 16"x22" $70
(laminated fabric, waterproof tray)

Market Profile - NEW Jonathan Adler Store BROOKLYN!

For my New York City readers, if you can't get enough of our fave retro-modern designer Jonathan Adler, you can now celebrate the opening of his first Brooklyn location! Especially for those who live in Brooklyn, no more commuting to Manhattan to see your fave curiosities and chic lacquered pieces that steal the show in any room you place them. Located on Atlantic Ave, a fab interior design shopping destination, you can have brunch and then stroll on over to his shop for some of his newest offers as I've selected below - LOVE the dragon lamp!








www.JonathanAdler.com

Love it! - GreenTeaDesign.com SALE!

www.GreenTeaDesign.com

Love it! - Pagoda Tulpiere

I'm still holding on to the Summer so for a gorgeous centerpiece for a foyer table, dining table or even dresser top, this white ceramic Tulpiere from Gumps.com will leave a most memorable statement. With a classic tiered pagoda silhouette in zen-white, it creates a perfect canvas for a burst of Summer color!


www.Gumps.com - $89

Love it! - My last week purchases

Yes, I admit it - I love to shop! But how could you not when products like these form Pottery Barn and WestElm look this good and at prices so affordable?! Plus I love changing up my decor periodically - every couple of years. I'm not saying to redesign your entire home, but changing something as simple as a duvet cover, a lamp or a mirror can completely change the feeling of a space and in turn revitalize its energy and inspire you to new directions in life. Design can definitely have that effect on your life!




PotteryBarn.com - Lamp and Mirror
WestElm.com - Duvet Cover

Love it! - Williams-Sonoma Home SALE!!

The parent company to beloved Pottery Barn and Westelm, Williams-Sonoma Home is just a few steps ahead on the food chain at a slightly higher price-point, but with the designs they're hocking, it's worth every extra dime. But take a look at my fave sale pieces and you would never know you were paying for top-quality paired with top-style!












www.WSHOME.com

Market Profile - www.MetroSofa.com

As you might imagine, I get a tons of product submissions in hopes of being featured on DOD and I'm always a little nervous to see what's in store upon opening that email and venturing to their website. As my loyal readers know, I only write about what I truly find noteworthy, right? Well the other day I received a submission from MetroSofa.com and upon entering their website, an image of a sofa appeared and I literally jolted back in my chair, see first image. OK, all I have to say is, INSANE! I nearly died. And for all the other hardcore design lovers out there, I think you will too. Recycled antique frames, rebuilt and reupholstered with custom fabrics and patterns to produce one-of-a-kind furniture. Ready-made pieces to chose from or design your dream piece with their team. If you aren't in need of a new sofa, arm chair or dining chair, chuck one of your existing ones and find a need. Nuff said?








http://www.metrosofa.com - Sofas depending on style, size, fabric can range on average from $1,400-2,400 (pieces ship from Florida, cost roughly from $50-$300 depending on size, location and method)

Love it! - Honeycomb mirror

So I wanted to share with you my latest purchase, this white honeycomb mirror from BallardDesigns.com - can you believe it's on clearance for only $160 - I know! I immediately snatched it up with the perfect spot in my foyer already chosen. Inspired by the renowned mid-century designer David Hicks and his use of the hexagon in wallpapers, rugs and fabrics (see below) this mirror definitely hearkens back to his legacy. Also available in black for $229, for me the white has a more subtle, modern, mid-century feeling. But act fast because I doubt it will be available much longer!




www.BallardDesigns.com - Octagonal Border Mirror $159.99 - $229 30"x40"

Love it! - Vicky's Yard Sale chandelier

A grand chandelier indeed - the only thing better than this flawless brass antique, is the solid bead-draping detail. Elegance and romanticism collide with this newly rewired and polished steal!



www.VickysYardsale.blogspot.com $850, 23-3/4"Wx20"H (chain 24"L)

Love it! - Vintage style desk lamps

New from Mothology.com, but aged to perfection, I love the old world feel of these desk lamps. Who needs modern and polished when you can get authentic charm and historical inspiration!



www.Mothology.com

Love it! - www.TonicHome.com SALE!!

One of my absolute fave online destinations TonicHome.com is having their warehouse sale, so I couldn't not pick my faves from their oh-so-addictive website to share with my loyal readers ... need I remind you, all these treats below are on sale, so act fast!!








www.tonichome.com

Love it! - BallardDesigns.com SALE!!

So while I could be posting about NEW items for the season, I'm still recession sensitive and want to milk the sales for myself and you my readers. I've always been budget-conscious, recession or not, so it brings me great joy to bring you my faves, the best of the sales - Enjoy!












www.BallardDesigns.com

Love it! - West Elm - Saturday 6/20 In-store design event & 10% OFF!!

I just received an email from the fine folks at West Elm announcing a fun Fall design event "Making the Most of Every Space" this Saturday at ALL of their West Elm stores nation wide. The best part is that everyone in attendance will receive 10% OFF their purchase!!

The events will take place prior to opening (time depends on the location but most are either 8-10 or 9-11). At the events, West Elm in-store teams will talk through fall design tips and show the new pre-fall assortment. Customers who are interested should call their local stores for details and to RSVP. They can find the store nearest them at www.westelm.com/stores Here's just a taste of what you can expect - LOVE the duvet cover!





www.WestElm.com

Love it! - Vivre.com SUMMER SALE!

www.vivre.com - Sale ends Friday June 19th midnight - SO ACT FAST!

Style Story - Small dining tables

For the spatially challenged apartment dwellers, the hunt for a smaller scale dining table is always an ordeal. To make your life a tad easier, here are just a hand full of options both stylish and less than 4' in diameter from CB2.com





www.cb2.com

Love it! - Pottery Barn SALE!

What would we all do without a little Pottery Barn in our lives? I know for me, part of my home would be empty, which is why I picked some of my fave pieces currently on sale to save you the leg work! For these and MANY more of those great finds you've been eyeing and waiting to go on sale, visit their website and stores.















PotteryBarn.com

Love it! - Greek key side table

Black glass with gold Greek key border pattern creates a glamorous old Hollywood look. Sleek, sexy and chic - this versatile side table works in a traditional or transitional style space. Great design detailing to flank a neutral solid sofa.


www.PlantationLa.com - 20x20x24H $725

Love it! - Gold wine glasses

Live like Royalty with these Florentine goblets made of real gold. Inspired by vessels of the 15th century, I'm pretty sure you'll be the only one of all your friends to have a set like these! (bragging rights included - wink)


www.Vivre.com - Florentine Wine Glasses (set of 4) $345

Love it! - Stools

Perfect for small or large spaces, stools make great fillers to accompany your larger seating and sit atop drinks, floral arrangements, books or accessories. On the other hand, for smaller spaces they make great substitutes for extra seating that you can pull in and out when expecting extra guests for dinner parties and soirees. Likewise, if you have a space that is lacking in decorative interest, keep your main furniture neutral and add smaller accent pieces, like a stool to spice up the room with a punch of color, a stylish pattern or a unique silhouette!





All available at - www.TonicHome.com

Project - Wooden armchair

One day I was walking home in the rain and came across a pile of wooden chairs abandoned on the street curb, all in various forms of distress. Carrying groceries, no umbrella and wet I paused, but continued walking. After five steps, I walked back, put down my bags and started picking through the variety of chairs to find the one most intact. They were all gorgeous and I couldn't believe they had been tossed, but you know what they say, "One man's trash ..." One wooden chair caught my eye and luckily for me it only had a twisted, detached arm that could be mended back into place and shameful vinyl, that could be easily reupholstered. After lugging the heavy chair home, I immediately screwed the arm back into place, reinforcing the joints with "liquid nails" all-purpose glue and clamped it in place to make sure it adhered. Since the chair was soaked I let it dry for a couple of days. Once dry, and the arm solidly back in place, I then on my patio sanded down the entire chair removing its old layers of polyurethane. In the pics below, you can see it back to its natural matte unstained wood. I then stripped the vinyl, old nailheads and batting. Next I painted it high-gloss, oil-based Benjamin Moore "White Dove" for a rich durable finish - no primer needed. I knew in my head what I was going for - updating it to a stylish "Ralph Lauren Home" look - white finish with contrasting dark-navy velvet and nautical brass nailhead trim. Once the three coats of paint dried, I reupholstered the front, filling it with new batting, upholstering the back flat and finishing it off by hammering a border of shiny brass nailheads. Having found the chair for free, the cost of a quart of paint, one yard of velvet fabric and nail heads, the total cost was just around $75!

Love it! - Wisteria.com SALE!

www.Wisteria.com

Love it! - Williams-Sonoma Home mirror

This colonial fretwork mirror stopped me dead in my computer tracks. After gasping, I immediately knew what I would be blogging about today - the white is my fave. Love anything with bamboo fretwork and in multiple color and size options to boot!



www.wshome.com - Hampstead Mirror Small-Large $595-795

Love it! - SourcePerrier.com - 60% OFF!!

USE CODE "Spring60" at checkout to receive an additional 60%OFF on all in-stock items plus free shipping on orders over $300 PLACED BY MAY 31, 2009
www.SourcePerrier.com

Market Profile - TonicHome.com

TonicHome.com is one of my fave online shops that is so well curated you can literally decorate your entire home from the comfort of your computer. From traditional and Chippendale styles, to classic and contemporary, it's a designer's paradise. The website is categorized and indexed to be totally user friendly - online shopping has never looked this good!









TonicHome.com

Market Profile - Desserts by Tawny Ong

A dear friend of mine Tawny Ong had the privilege this past week of catering the desserts at Gracie Mansion for Mayor Bloomberg's Lawn Party. Mini cupcakes in a variety of scrumptious flavors and banana pudding too sinful to describe were bigger hits then the food itself! If you live in the New York tri-state area - NY, Connecticut and New Jersey, then you're in luck because she delivers to your front door for any size party or event. Just take a look at her website and extensive menu. Once you try her goods, you'll be a repeat offender for life!









Desserts by Tawny Ong - www.TawnyOng.com

Market Profile - Green Tea Design - Step System 20%OFF

For a slightly more zen aesthetic and unique approach to storage, Greentea Design's Step Chests are a versatile way of configuring everything from a home bar, a TV armoire, to desk storage. If you want to hide the open clutter of a bookcase or protect your electronics from dust, their step chests are a perfect alternative - just choose from a variety of finishes and hardware to complete your customization. AND until June 15Th Greentea Design is offering 20% OFF on any model or design of their Step Chests - what are you waiting for! Visit their website to watch an interactive video on the myriad ways they can be used.







GreenTeaDesign.com

Love it! - SourcePerrier.com - 40%OFF

www.SourecePerrier.com
USE CODE "Spring40" at checkout to receive an additional 40% off all in-stock items only, plus receive free shipping on all orders over $200!

Market Profile - Pillow Pagoda SALE

A true believer that Pillow Pagoda is an untapped resource, I have four of their pillows and they are equal to the top quality of any mainstream retailer, but ironically possessing high-design patterns unrivaled by the supposed style-makers to the masses. To boot, I just received an email that they're having a 10%OFF discount on select styles, some seen below so act fast - very limited quantities!








Pillow Pagoda -Prices range by design from $20/pillow to $50/SET of 2

Market Profile - Vicky's Yard Sale

One of my newest finds, Vicky's Yard Sale takes the work out of rummaging through piles of hidden treasure. Bringing yard sale finds to the masses, everything on her site is for sale and can be shipped nationwide so if you see something that catches your eye, snatch it up cause it'll be gone before you know it. And if it is, don't fret because she replenishes her inventory on a regular basis so keep checking in - here is just a handful of my faves currently available - "available" being the operative word so act fast!






www.VickysYardSale.blogspot.com

Love it! - Frontgate.com SALE!

Unfortunately, with the recession still going strong, so are the sales. Frontgate.com is no different than the rest offering up a bevy of products that are bound to please. From a Venetian tri-fold vanity mirror and kilim bench to my fave, the lattice-corniced bookshelves, there's something for everyone.







www.Frontgate.com

Love it! - Beaded frames

For a last minute Mother's Day gift, I chose a store that most have access to, and one of my faves, Pottery Barn. Always a classic, a silver-plated beaded frame will make any childhood photo look like an heirloom to be cherished through the years. Print your photo in black and white or in brown-sepia for an added touch of timelessness. By doing so the photo will be neutral and subtle - complimenting, not competing with the detailing of such a feminine frame.


www.PotteryBarn.com - Beaded Silver-Plated Frames $29-$54

Love it! - Horchow.com HUGE SALE!!!

www.Horchow.com