Using its streaky texture and barely there colour variations, strié (a term from the French, pronounced stree-AY) is a semi classic layout technique. Although it originated as a means to evoke the appearance of thick, brushed-on paint tinged by decades of use, it’s expanded to include silk and other materials, tile and wood finishes, background and much more. It has become a favorite for its controlled yet rich visual appeal and its unfailing elegance.

All these spaces showcase strié in its various forms.

Mendelson Group

A strié wall treatment complements the undulating pattern from the art that graces this entryway. Between the two, the distance needs no additional embellishment to captivate guests.

Alan Kosa Interiors

Although strié can create a timeworn effect on pale tones like cream and gray, it also can proceed in the opposite direction on more optimistic hues. This hand-painted red background gets a hint of modern flourish using a tone-on-tone strié treatment.

Rivertown Homes by Design

A different way to get the strié appearance: Brush a sheer coat of paint or stain over timber. The unevenness of the colour and the inherent grain combine for an appealing faded appearance, just right for a shore house, cabin or rustic cabin.

LUX Design

Strié doesn’t have to be understated — a high-contrast version can yield a dramatic focal point, like with this slick kitchen island.

Shelburne Development

Tile using a strié appearance, somewhere between stone and wood in look, elevates this quietly neutral tub. The pattern provides the controlled palette a sense of power and motion.

Gina Fitzsimmons ASID

Strié can be a terrific way to tone down a hue that otherwise might be too bright for your room. A gray topcoat mutes this teal cupboard finish and gives a lovely weathered effect.

Cecilie Starin Design Inc..

Blue strié velvet on a pair of fauteuils sustains the formality of this living space, which is awash in detail and pattern. A good velvet would have appeared too plain, particularly combined with the ornate pattern on the seat backs.

Cecilie Starin Design Inc..

Following is a closer look at the velvet upholstery on the fauteuils. It’s basically two colors of blue, but the combed effect gives the impression of much greater color variation.

Are you a fan? Tell us why in the Comments!

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As soon as we think about the energy we need to power our houses, we tend to think large. Big dams. Big nuclear power plants. Big wind turbines. Even if we speak about creating solar power, we’re still thinking large, as in large arrays of solar panels onto the roof.

However, I believe the biggest trend in house energy will be little solar. Instead of a single house electricity plant juicing everything, our devices and appliances will increasingly draw their own electricity directly from sunlight, in tandem with large solar power production and other alternative energy approaches coming on line.

How do I know? Because this is what the Pentagon needs.

Technologies are developed just if someone invests in their own development. For small stuff — for example better cell phones and TVs — private companies with an incentive to get wealthy in the consumer market make those investments.

But large stuff requires big investments. And nobody is a larger investor in technology than the U.S. military.

For instance, the computer, the world wide web, the cell telephone and GPS all began as Pentagon research projects. Even Siri, the voice helper in the Apple iPhone, has its roots in a huge military project.

In the past ten years, the Pentagon has waged two significant wars, one in Iraq and the other in Afghanistan. An immense quantity of time, money and effort has been spent getting gasoline tanker trucks across hundreds of miles of hostile territory to gas tanks, Humvees and first and foremost, gas-powered generators which heat water, electricity computer control centers and much more. And they had to transport millions of batteries for flashlights, mobile communications equipment and other demands.

All this dangerous and expensive transportation of gasoline and batteries occurs in areas where sunlight is beaming down unfathomable amounts of free energy. That fact hasn’t been lost on the Pentagon. So for the previous decade, they’ve been investing in startups developing lower-cost mobile solar power technologies. In the end, their vision is to create a cheap combination of solar power generators and small solar panels, which is integrated into the most objects which are using the power.

All this investment has hastened the rate of change. Military investment in U.S. companies has helped those businesses compete against Chinese companies in the race to the cost bottom for solar technology.

In a nutshell, it means that little, mobile solar power is getting much cheaper and much quicker than it otherwise would have, which solar is “winning” the struggle between alternate energies. For small solar devices, prices are dropping so quickly that very soon, adding panels to a large array of electrically powered household appliances and gadgets will make a good deal of sense.

Solar Panel Windows

Can It Affect?

Solar research is enabling the development of solar power technologies which blend into their environments, which makes them simpler to incorporate into fine home design. Only last month, UCLA researchers announced the development of transparent solar cells. The technology can be employed to develop ordinary dwelling windows which generate electrical power.

What’s intriguing about the technology is that it captures energy in the infrared spectrum, although not the visible spectrum. The technology would allow solar panels to be fabricated at a very low cost, too, according to investigators.

Electree – GBP 349

Solar Gadget Chargers

Nearly everyone’s got a cell phone nowadays, along with a number of other consumer electronics devices which have to be billed every night. The consumer electronics industry has generated a world of solar charging options for mobiles and other devices. Most are designed for backpackers and travelers. But others, such as this Electree solar bonsai, are designed to become permanent fixtures in your home.

The “tree” is actually composed of individual modules, which you connect together to create the solar panel of your pick — large, little, high-capacity, low-capacity. It is up to you.

The Electree includes a battery at its base, which the solar panels charge. Subsequently, when you plug various devices into the USB port, then they will be billed just as if they were plugged into the wall outlet.

Trace M

Solar Lamps Without Electricity

The conventional approach to solar is to convert light into electric power, which is usually stored in a battery, then used to power items such as lamps. However, a more direct approach is to store the light itself.

Gionata Gatto and Mike Thompson have developed a lamp called the Trace M, which stores light during the daytime, then “glows” at night to present ambient outside lighting. They utilize a polyurethane rubber using photoluminescent skins.

The Trace M has been designed for exhibition, but a lot of products which use this exact same concept exist, usually on a much smaller scale such as nighttime lights and ambient outside lighting.

Aluminium Solar Wave Wall Clock – $149

Solar Without Sunlight

A few types of house devices require just a tiny quantity of electricity — such a little amount that to power them does not even require direct sunlight, just the ambient light typical inside a house during the day. Solar-powered versions of these devices can remove the batteries normally demanded.

One instance is the Muji Aluminum Solar Wave Wall Clock, a standard-looking wall clock using a solar panel regarding the size of a credit card on the face. Muji products are nice too as they have no visible branding.

Replacing one battery thing with a solar-powered one will not create much of a difference. However, as you substitute small electric devices around the house, it is a great idea to search for solar options. Over time, the savings and environmental advantages accumulate.

Automower Solar Hybrid – $2,999.95

Solar Hybrids

A few types of solar power use the sun’s energy not just to reduce electricity consumption, but to boost the quantity of time the devices can operate between costs. One great example is the Husqvarna Automower Solar Hybrid. It is a robot lawn mower that cuts your grass with no nagging.

The whole top of the mower bears solar panels, enabling it to keep on cutting the grass on sunny days without needing to go back to its charger (which plugs into a standard outlet).

Quite simply, the solar panels permit the lawnmower to utilize a much more energy-efficient motor overall, without sacrificing function time.

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Get inspired on a day trip to the hilltop Rockefeller Estate in Hudson Valley, New York, where you can see art by Picasso, Andy Warhol, Alexander Calder and more in the underground art gallery. Also this month: Explore the sprawling grounds of this updated 1900s Glynallyn castle, learn how to build a backyard barnyard in town and much more.

richardavedon.com

EXHIBIT — May 4–July 6, 2012
Richard Avedon: Murals & Portraits
Gagosian Gallery, 522 W. 21st St., New York City

Known for his powerful and dynamic portraits, the photographer is the field of Richard Avedon: Murals and Portraits, which showcases his iconic murals depicting the cultural cultural and cultural years of 1969 to 1971. The controlling photography installation is developed on panels measuring 20 to 35 feet wide, with subjects such as Andy Warhol and the stars of The Factory (photograph ); the Chicago Seven, the political toxins charged with a conspiracy to incite riots during the 1968 Democratic convention; beat poet Allen Ginsberg and his extended family; and the Mission Council, a group of army and government officials that governed the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War.

The Gagosian Gallery collaborated with the Richard Avedon Foundation for the exhibit, tapping architect David Adjaye of Adjaye Associates to look the streamlined installation. The display design celebrates the craft of architectural choreography through a stunning spatial makeup: Four smaller rooms painted black are created through tiled walls.

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

friezeartfair.com

FAIR — May 4–7, 2012
Frieze Art Fair
Randall’s Island Park, New York City

With the East River serving as a backdrop, Frieze New York will exhibit the work of more than 1,000 of the world’s leading modern artists for four days. The fair includes an outside shadow theater and a collaborative choral painting inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer’s Night Dream, and young and old alike can participate in exhibits and discussions. There’ll be a lot of thought-provoking modern art to see and buy, and the festival itself is placed in a bespoke temporary structure designed by SO–IL architects that’s worth checking out. Bonus: The ferry trip over to Randall’s Island Park is included in the entrance price.

Hours: Friday and Saturday, 12–7 p.m.; Sunday and Monday, 12–6 p.m.
Price: Single day $40; discounts for seniors and students; 16 and younger freeTickets available online only

bryanhaeffele.com

TOUR — May 5–Nov. 4, 2012
Kykuit: The Rockefeller Estate
381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, New York

Have a day trip out to Kykuit, a hilltop Hudson Valley landmark that was formerly home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. Walk through the meticulously maintained rooms of this century-old six-story stone home, such as an impressive underground art gallery with works by Picasso, Andy Warhol, Alexander Calder, Henry Moore and lots of others. The estate also features a mentor barn with a group of classic automobiles and horse-drawn carriages. Pick from a menu of five tours. If the weather is fine, the panoramic views of the valley and also well-manicured gardens are particularly beautiful.

Hours: Visitors’ centre opens at 9 pm per day; shut Tuesdays
Price: $23–$40; $15–$30 for Historic Hudson Valley and National Trust members
Buy tickets online

davidgruolphotography.com

SHOW HOUSE — May 3–31, 2012
Mansion in May Showhouse and Gardens
Morristown, New Jersey

Spring signs that it is time for show houses, and this season the Women’s Association of Morristown Medical Center secured the historic Glynallyn castle nestled in what was formerly known as”Millionaire’s Row.” The sprawling 32,000-square-foot castle includes authentic English Tudor architecture and will exhibit the layout imaginations of 40 local interior designers, such as Canterbury Design, and 16 landscape architects, such as Susan Cohan. Come ready with comfortable walking shoes, since the mansion tour will take you through 66 rooms and 7.5 acres of terraced gardens. This year’s display home advantages the new Inpatient Hospice and Palliative Care Center.

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 Gamble –3 p.m.; Sunday, 11 Gamble –4 p.m.
Price: $30; seniors $25
Buy tickets online

Lola Nova

WORKSHOP — May 12, 2012
Urban Menagerie: The Way to Raise Food Animals in the City
Oakland, California

In case you’ve ever had the urge to raise your own meat or build your own backyard barnyard, combine SPUR, Kitchen Table Talks and 18 Reasons for a unique workshop and bicycle tour. Led by Esperanza Pallana of Pluck and Feather and Kitty Sharkey of Havenscourt Homestead, the day’s events include a bicycle tour visiting two houses where goats, hens, rabbits and other animals are raised at the garden. You will learn about the viability and legality of raising animals in cities, in addition to get advice on feeding, sheltering and slaughtering. Light snacks will be provided; make your own lunch.

Price: $35; 18 Reasons and SPUR members $25
Hours: 11 a.m.—2 p.m.

More layout occasions: April 19–May 20, 2012, April 27–May 17, 2012

What’s on your calendar?Let us know in the Comments.

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I think that it’s safe to say that Peggy Olson will experience some significant transformations in the fifth season of Mad Men. This picture from New York magazine is indicative of the observable flux within our favourite copywriter’s character: She’s prepared to do whatever it takes (perform in the nude or wreck a men’s night out with customers at a strip bar) to be taken seriously and to have her work confirmed as it matters.

Outside her style choices, nowhere will the changes in Peggy’s life be more evident than in her office area. Listed below are a couple décor pieces that I think she could use today that she’s brought the guys around her into their knees.

Mad Men‘s season five two-hour premiere: March 25, 2012, 9 p.m. Eastern

AMC Networks

Peggy made lots of bad choices in previous seasons of Mad Men, but she’s never allow the tumult of her private life has an effect on the quality of her work — most likely among the reasons she became the first female copywriter at Sterling Cooper (afterwards, Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce), an absolutely revolutionary accomplishment. She has gone from being Don’s secretary to having her own secretary, who fields calls and …

Amy Lau Design

… if a pitch assembly requires this, prepares a couple of libations to stimulate inventive work. The gold finish and flowers of the bar trolley soften the portable setup without getting away from its functionality and purpose, making it a great improvement to Peggy’s office.

Amy Lau Design

This midcentury sectional couch is a more practical and aesthetically appealing version of what is in Peggy’s recent office; the sectional can accommodate the SCDP spouses and all Peggy’s creative underlings if need be. And let us face it — she could use the excess legroom for the many all-nighters she will probably have to pull season five.

Nube Green

Modern Swoop Armchair – $1,000

Peggy can get rid of the clunky side chair that is currently in her office and replace it with this chocolate and plaid midcentury modern Swoop armchair, which still very much reflects Peggy’s yellow and brownish color palette.

Layla Grayce

Business C Pillow Deco Peacock – $130

Janie Bryant, Mad Men‘s stylist, said in an interview how the changes in Peggy’s personality are constantly expressed apparently in little variations. Although Peggy is attending film screenings downtown, hanging out having a lesbian photographer and making out with a liberal author, the observable changes in her life will be subtle. Therefore it makes sense that she upgrades her office’s colour palette with attachments (as opposed to sweeping paint adjustments or chinoiserie background), like a peacock patterned throw pillow …

Modern Table Lamps – $275

. . .or a tangerine mod lamp. It is perfect for illuminating her office inspiration board(you can see a sliver of it in this picture).

AMC Networks

Even in the middle of a celebration with Joyce (her photographer friend, found here), Peggy scouts for photographers to the bureau. The celebration is pivotal for Peggy’s image and Mad Men‘s plot in general: She’s seen with her hair down, smoking a joint, wearing a cotton shirt (read: not a lace bow blouse). The concept is clear: Peggy is paying attention to the way she looks.

The Couture Rooms

Horchow

Starburst Mirror – $495

Now that she is all grown up and aware of her image, Peggy could definitely use some type of starburst mirror (here and above) in her office. We do not want to see a repeat of how she mistakenly thought that a customer was making a lewd pass if he was really trying to inform her she had lipstick on her teeth. Constantly check your manifestation prior to a meeting, Peggy.

Peggy has a small blue version of the chair, which she uses as a footstool while she sits on her desk. However, this Saarinen womb chair and ottoman would offer her both comfort and functionality, allowing her literally put her feet up at work.

Elad Gonen

She’s already let down her hair and taken off her bra to the sake of creativity, therefore I think that it’s time Peggy got rid of her coffee table to generate space for this Eames elliptical coffee table.

AllModern

Husky Throw – $435

It can get chilly at Manhattan for a woman operating in the ad world in 1967 — nothing can make the temperature sense frostier than an exchange with the occasionally icy Don Draper. Peggy could use this throw to keep her warm at the office, day and night.

More:
How to Get the ‘Mad Men’ Look
Contemplate the Home Office Bar

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It’s time to update the cottage, so what exactly do you do first? This may be a painful question especially if your ideas about cottage design are stuck in custom.

Your preference is modern. So, again what exactly do you do? The solution is simple: You muster up the guts to go against convention and make what you love.

Blend your attachment for simple forms with organic components. Blend stainless steel with driftwood, woven baskets with modern art — frankly, there are no hard-and-fast rules. To get the ultimate advantage of combining styles, just stay consistent with two layout styles. This ideabook concentrates on the modern cottage that marries ultramodern design with Mother Nature’s bounty. Let’s take a look.

Duncan Consultants

Vaulted ceilings offer ample space to highlight the expansive stacked-stone fireplace and welcome the disturbance of an oversize, hammered-metal pendant lighting. Slipcovered furniture, even though compact, allows the cottage to honor its hot, comfortable roots.

Masterson Studio

Clean lines and a two-toned wood mix modernizes this quaint cottage bedroom. Accessories featuring concentric circles from the modern artwork along with the overhead drum pendant mix with woven baskets in the same shape.

Woodmeister Master Builders

Clapboard cottage walls are calmed by ethereal blue paint and soft neutral squares. Like fine jewelry, the wall sconce and pendant chandelier are showstopping accents. A conventional whirlpool bathtub is replaced with a state-of-the-art soaking bathtub.

Woodmeister Master Builders

Cozy mid-century furnishings provide an update in this seaside living room. Natural elements like driftwood and rock soften the look of the electronics and allows the tv to feel integrated.

Woodmeister Master Builders

Bamboo cabinetry, aluminum tiles, and stainless steel appliances change this cottage from shabby-chic into metro-sleek. Exposed wire track lights provide an artistic contrast to the elegant crystal chandelier over the table.

Woodmeister Master Builders

Boi-glass green countertops take color cues from seaglass, a coastal treasure, and converts natural components into modern forms.

Richard Bubnowski Design LLC

Woven accents in the barstools and roman shades maintain the cottage aesthetic while the shiny metallic pendant lights insert an industrial element reserved for much more modern spaces.

Duncan Consultants

A partial-floating staircase is a remarkable architectural feature in this cottage as makes excellent use of space to get a handy office nook.

More: What’s Your Design Style?
Design Mix: Organic Glam
Style Mix: Happy Prep
Patina Style

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So, summer is on its way out here from the U.S., and autumn is on its way in. I, for one, am not prepared to let the warm times proceed. But thanks to New York Fashion Week, which is going on as we speak, I will jump over autumn and winter entirely and look straight in trends for spring 2012. I must say, I enjoy what I am seeing.

A popular trend is the mixture of oranges and reds with pink. Oranges and reds are omnipresent fall colors, and many people like to inject several subtle energies into the seasons in their decor. This season, why not just take a cue from fashion’s top dogs and incorporate a jolt of pink for your mix of autumnal colors? You can rest assured that the color combo is going to keep you warm and merry through the dark days of winter, (unless you love winter and do not locate the times dim), and it is going to still be fresh and on-trend come spring!

More: 2012 Fashion Inspiration to Your House

Vanessa De Vargas

J.Crew did not mess around for Spring 2012. Certainly, the doctrine is NO FEAR. This bedroom is channeling the identical feeling, with two bright colors working in concert to create an exciting composition. Tossing in a fantastic pattern at a high-volume color will rejuvenate a space in no time!

Vintage Renewal

As though it were directly out of the jazzy Peter Som outfit, this living room design, utilizes orange and pink colors as a baseline, whereas blue, yellow, green and natural tones produce a gorgeous palette which will never become stale.

MANDARINA STUDIO interior design

Much like this look from Vivienne Tam, one bright color takes centre stage, though other tones are muted in comparison. A similar look is simple to achieve without costing too much. It’s all about accessories within this space, from framed images to new flowers to a snappy lamp and doodads on the console.

For Folks design

While pinks, reds and oranges are inherently bold, taming them with classic silhouettes and just the ideal amount of pattern and sheen is going to bring about a tailored look, like this one from Christian Siriano. Shots of soft pink and bold orange give this living space an unexpected and much-appreciated jolt of excitement without sacrificing any of the sophistication. Well done!

Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs

Here is another illustration of refinery through boldness. This bedroom displays the designer’s control of composition of color, hue, texture and pattern.

Contemporary Fabric – $34

Orange + pink = perfect ikat pillow.

SFGIRLBYBAY

The introduction of one great pattern has the capability to change any space. This pillow, in addition to that small painting on the ground, are subtle developments, but they make a large effect on the overall design.

Burnham Design

Wild colors can be tamed with patterns and textures to achieve a highly sophisticated space, such as this bedroom, in which the colors pop, but the tailored bits and varying textures lead to a really sharp vignette. The unstoppable Marc Jacobs makes it seem effortless in this look from his Spring 2012 set, in which a tailored jacket brings a part of classic refinement for this adventurous outfit.

Etsy

Suzani Pillow Cover – $50

Ok, one more cushion. This is why they work so well: If you are not certain about introducing this kind of saucy color blend, take baby steps using a toss pillow or two. They are a super low-cost, low-committment way to experiment with injecting new color ideas that can easily be eliminated if you decide they are not for you.

More: 2012 Fashion Inspiration For The House
Fashionable Spaces Inspires by Menswear
Guest Picks: Decor Meets Fashion

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Wish to add great storage with classic flair and loads of character? Consider lockers. While they could bring back memories of penetrating your mix, these metal cupboards can fit all types of items while incorporating large style to any room — from a playroom to a kitchenfrom a kid’s bedroom into a dining room. Oh, and there are no mix locks needed in your own home. Let’s take a look.

Haus Interior Design

Wowzah! What goes with bold bright horizontal stripes? Tall colorful lockers.

Joanne Palmisano, Salvage Keys

This unit can function as a coat closet/landing strip. Relatives may have a two of their own for coats, backpacks, crocs, etc.. They can also function as extra kitchen area for china, linens, and pantry products, Tupperware — you name it.

A pair of lockers in a kid’s bedroom is a perfect place to stash toys, models, publications and T-shirts.

Elizabeth Gordon

These colors set the palette for this boy’s space.

David Churchill – Architectural Photographer

This stylish locker cabinet can function as a media cabinet or dining buffet.

A classic aqua adds plenty of style and colour to this room.

Visbeen Architects

It is possible to discover classic lockers on sites like eBay and Etsy, as well as your preferred antique emporiums, salvage yards and flea markets. If you discover a classic locker, you may want to leave the graffiti but scrape off the gum.

Hint: Professional powder coat is a good way to freshen up classic lockers and cause them to look good as new.

Lucy McLintic

This fire-engine red cabinet from IKEA is a stylish steal that is perfect for a kid’s room.

Aesthetic Outburst

The low locker cabinet is also great for a living room or family room. It has the storage capacity of a trunk with the extra bonus of a horizontal top for publications and a lamp.

Grainda Builders, Inc..

A mural adds the look of classic gray lockers to the football-themed room.

Locker-inspired nightstands will be the ideal pick for a soccer-themed room. Wait, the duvet states”Liverpool,” so I should probably say”football-themed room”

LDa Architecture & Interiors

Want something in a different substance than metal? Let the older lockers inspire a modern built-in cabinet system.

I love the chic look of the beadboard, vents, and these darling bins on top.

Pedlars

Industrial Nine Drawer Unit – GBP 995

Want to get the look? Here is a roundup of locker-inspired products

Lazzari USA – a brand of Foppapedretti

A cushioned wall of lockers adds kid-friendly softness into a locker-inspired look.

More:
11 Ways to Present Your House Schoolhouse Charm
Vintage Modern Elements: Telephones
20 Favorite Vintage Items and How to Use Them
Salvage Secrets

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These fantastic gifts will add colour and style to everything from casual play spaces to formal living rooms–from the place where one finds a quiet place to see where families gather for movie nights. Whether you would like to give a lovely object to get a tablescape, a cool storage basket, a gorgeous publication or the trendiest bean bag chair around, there’s a little bit of everything here.

We would love your great present finds, also! Add a link to your best idea for the ideal present for the dwelling room/family room/media room in the remarks section and tell us why you enjoy it. The Houzz member with the majority of creative thought wins a $50 gift card to West Elm. And be sure to come back tomorrow for our next guide to the most stylish gifts of the season!

Home Decor HSN

Nate Berkus Batik Fabric Tray – $39.95

Some of the best home decor deals on the market are in Nate Berkus’s assortment for HSN. This fabric-covered tray is great for holding keys and papers, for serving as a tablescape base, or for placing on a upholstered coffee table when you need a good flat surface.

Fabric covered
Approx. 20″L x 12″W x 2-1/2″H
$39.95

angela adams

Angela Adams Pillow at Pod – $85

This abstract botanical handprinted pillow from Angela Adams is such a breath of fresh air. For those who prefer a warmer palette, in addition, it comes in tangerine and burnt umber. Insert is included.

55% linen, 45% cotton cover with a hypo-allergenic down alternative insert
12″ x 22″ rectangle
18″ x 18″ square
Hand-printed in the USA
Sewn at Maine
$85

Etsy

Monogrammed Burlap Pillow Cover by myadobecottage on Etsy – $32

This pillow combines several of our favorite styles: Parisian, flea market, monogram, texture, and burlap. It is a wonderful way to give a personalized handmade present.

The pay measures 17″ x 17″ and has an envelope closure
Pillow insert not included
$32.00

W Magazine Stand, Oak – $169

If a person does not round up the magazines one hasn’t gotten around to reading yet, it can turn into a mess of mess very quickly. This wavy rack from Offi is a wonderful way to keep tabs on those. When it is full, it is a sign to start moving a few of these to the recycling bin!

Molded plywood construction
Dimensions: 16″H x 15″W x 13″D
Prices varying, as we bill: birch is $129; walnut is $169

Etsy

Little Scallop Bowl in Blue by elementclaystudio around Etsy – $89

Etsy nice artist Heather Knight creates exquisite unique pieces inspired by nature. This bowl can be used as a sculpture and can be food secure.

Handmade from a ceramic clay, this bowl is unglazed on the exterior, and treated with a translucent blue glaze on the inside.
Approx 9″ about by 3″ heavy
$89

Garnet Hill

Rosette Throw – Garnet Hill – $178

Casually tossed throughout the couch or used for warmth, this lambswool throw is a stylish alternative to some tacky Snuggie! Seriously, nothing says “I DON’T Love You” like a Snuggie!

Lambswool
Dry wash only
$178

Design Public

Fatboy Original Marimekko Lounge Bag – at Unikko Black – $299

Houzz buddy, photographer, DIY-er and writer of the site Asiz’s Child, Ali says,”You can never go wrong with a Fatboy Original. Not only can it be a fantastic lounge chair but it comes at a massive box that makes for hours of entertainment for the little ones (think box forts, box rocket ships, also a fantastic hide/seek spot), ha!”

Practical and easy to clean nylon material with a special coating. Scrub with a damp cloth to keep it looking new. The inside filling is made of tiny cylindrical parts of EPS (Expanded Polystyrene Packaging).

Designer Jukka Setala
70″ L x 55″ W x 70″ D
$299

John Derian Company

John Derian Company Inc.. Silver Pouf – $325

Poufs are here to stay, and we get lots of questions here at Houzz about sources. John Derian has every colour in the rainbow and then some, like this glamorous silver.

Hand-dyed and hand-stitched at Morocco
Leather
20″ W x by 14″ H
Stuffed with a Mix of kapok, a natural plant fiber, and Dacron foam
$325

Macy’s

Heart of Haiti Bowl, Green Ceremonial – $10

This bright Haitian paper mache bowl is so adorable you will want to pick this up in the blue and yellow variations as well. It is very good for your social conscience as well; it rewards the people in Haiti who create them.

Paper; amidon glue; acrylic paint
Handcrafted in Haiti
6″
Not food secure
Includes a Certificate of Authenticity
Signed by the artisan
$10

L.L. Bean

Moon Beam hitter at L.L.Bean – $39.50

Houzz contributor Lily Gahagan says,”not only is this retro-inspired clock a joy to look at, it is also makes getting up in the morning a pleasure (imagine that); you can select to wake up by a gently pulsing light, bell sound, or both.”

Features on/off backlight switch, snooze functionality and battery backup
5″H x 7″W x 3″D
Requires two AA batteries, not included
$39.50

Jonathan Adler

Jonathan Adler Letter Pillow – $98

This needlepoint pillow is a wonderful and personalized present. Order up a monogrammed accent to get a family’s living space or bedroom with hardly any fuss.

Available in a Range of color choices and letters A-Z
16″ x 16″
$98

Crate&Barrel

Ziggy Turquoise Vase – $14.95

What’s so great about those vases is that they price $14.95 but seem a whole lot more expensive. In reality, the giftees may even think you sacrificed major space in your luggage lugging them home from Venice!

Handblown cased glass
Cut and polished rim
Watertight
4″dia. X 5″H
$14.95

Contemporary Picture Frames – $29.95

One can never have too many dashes of glam. Perfect for a vanity, bedroom or living space, this oval frame made of glass cubes is appropriate for photographs of loved ones.

8.5″ x 10.5″; holds 5″ x 7″ photo
$29.95

Wisteria

Happiness Pot – Short – $129

I cannot think of a better name for a present than”Happiness Pot!” Traditionally a wedding present in China, why not spread the happy to all of your favorite people?

Readily available in three sizes
Decorated with all the Chinese ideogram for happiness
This brief pot is $59.00

AphroChic Shop

Silhouette Dove Pillow, Black and White, 14″x20″ – $105

At first glance, this bold and gorgeous pillow looks like some type of exotic Ikat print, but upon a closer look it is a pattern of silhouettes. It is just too smart!

Belgian linen sold with 100% cotton feather down insert
Measures 12″ x 20″
Piped seam in black hidden zipper
$90

Amazon

The Story of Eames Furniture from John Marilyn Neuhart – $125.37

We’ve featured so many ideabooks about Eames furniture that it seems only fitting to throw at a gorgeous book about Charles and Ray and their furniture!

2-volume, 800-page publication with more than 2,500 images
$125.37

Design Within Reach

Tube Top Table Lamp – Design Within Reach – $110

This perfectly contemporary tabletop lamp is going to be appreciated by all fans of contemporary design. The clear acrylic version is visually space-saving and classic. Also available in charcoal.

Clear acrylic base; vinyl-coated plastic cloth color; fabric-covered cord
Tube Top Table Lamp
Small: H 14″ x W 9″ x D 4″ $110
Medium: H 21″ x W 15″ x D 7″
$220
Big: H 27″ x W 18″ x D 9″ $305

Toys R Us

Artisan Deluxe Wooden Backgammon – $59.99

This handsome backgammon board comes in a wood attache case, making it an attractive thing that can be saved in plain view on a bookshelf.

Consists of solid wooden pieces two dice cups a doubling cubes. Opens to reveal a neatly inlaid wooden playing surface. Closed, it looks like a wooden attache case highlighted with chrome clasps.

Inlaid wooden playing surface
14.8 x 8.9 x 1.9
$59.99

Hasbro

HASBRO – MONOPOLY Championship Edition – $19.99

Enough with all the video games and cans. Bring family and friends together for a few fantastic old Monopoly. It is made for ages 8 and up. Odds are you adults have forgotten how much fun it’s, but you have not forgotten that you like to use the automobile gamepiece!

Includes gameboard, 8 movers with transport bag, 28 Title Deed cards, 16 Chance cards, 16 Community Chest cards, 1 pack of MONOPOLY cash, 32 silver homes, 12 gold resorts, 2 number dice, 1 rate expire, championship scorepad, champion’s trophy, 6 name strips and instructions

$19.99

Macy’s

Fair Winds Trading Rwanda Basket – Shop for a Better World – $75

This basket, handmade in Rawanda, is a feel-good present that helps girls there earn a living. This functions as a tote, magazine rack, wastepaper basket or basic jumble catch-all.

Naturally dyed sisal coil-sewn over bundled sweetgrass
Hand-woven at Rwanda
10.5″ x 16″
Since each bowl is a unique work of art, variations in size and colour will happen
contains a numbered Certificate of Authenticity
$75.00

Etsy

Hand Embroidered Turkish Antique Kilim Pillow Cover by sukan – $49.99

Do you know someone who dreams of drifting the markets of Istanbul in hot pursuit of fabrics? Until they get that opportunity, they’ll be thrilled with this Kilim cushion on Etsy. There is a huge array of beautiful pillows in Etsy seller sukan’s store.

Pillow covered with a classic kilim (a sort of a rug). It is made of 100%wool. Colored with natural dyes. It’s Anatolian and Middle Eastern patterns.
The cover is zipped on the trunk.
Colours may fade after washing. Dry clean for best results.

Approx. Dimensions:
Width(wide):16″ / 40 cm
Height(large ):12″ / 30 cm
$49.99

Jonathan Adler

Jonathan Adler Key Keeper – $70

As soon as I visited one of the very stylish people I know, Interior Designer Vanessa De Vargas, she’d this snazzy little Jonathan Adler box on her perfectly arranged coffee table, and it has made me need one ever since.

Brown stoneware with platinum accents
6.5″ x 3.5″ x 2.25″
Along with the bottoms are as adorable as the tops
$70

Contemporary Decorative Accents – $34.95

What’s great about this sport is that it is an gorgeous object you will love to look at, but in addition, it makes you want to pull it out and play a simple game of Tic-Tac-Toe with a pal, spouse or kiddo.

Made from wood finished with a high gloss black and silver lacquer
14″ x 14″ x 1.5″
$34.95

Amazon

Hue (Limited Edition) by Kelly Wearstler – $23

The scrumptious colours and sumptuous images within this publication will be such inspiration to anybody who loves design, they’ll always leave this out limited edition in cerulean blue onscreen display. Wearstler’s design has evolved from the classic Hollywood Regency to bold Bravura Modern; this one is not for the meek. This is a signed and numbered edition of 1,000 copies world-wide.

psst. . .if this variant is too rich for your blood, the original publication is priced about $23 brand new on Amazon right now.

$61.20

Pottery Barn

Bobble-Knit Lumbar Pillow Cover – $39.99

This knit pillow cover is reminiscent of a fisherman’s sweater stitched with love by grandma. It is wonderful for providing that comfy comfy vibe at the family room.

16″ W x 26″ L
Soft acrylic-wool yarn Reverses to sound
Zipper closing; insert sold individually
70% acrylic, 30% wool
$39.99

Saks Fifth Avenue

Michael Wainwright – Amalfi Turquoise Nut Dish – $65

This lovely little bowl from Michael Wainwright is a special splurge. Your giftee will want to leave it out as part of a tablescape whether it has some snacks inside or not. Also available in gold and coral.

Handcrafted in ceramic and awarded a cracked look with a 24k gold glaze.
Dishwasher safe
121/2″ X 81/2″
Made in USA
$65

muranoglassgifts.com

Murano Glass Bottle Vase Medium Violet – $75

This rich jewel-toned purple Murano glass vase is worthy of an official living room. Present the present with a couple of fresh flowers.

10″ H x 6″ W
$75

Branch

Family Pillow: Brown – $134

In the beginning, the price for a cushion may seem steep. Then realize you are able to personalize it to be handstitched by K Studio with all the family characters (pets included) you pick!
Handmade by K Studio, Grand Rapids, MI

Shell of 100% hemp/organic cotton; filling of natural feathers (90%) and down (10%)
Pillows are made to order, in your choice of size:
14″ square $134
18″ square $152
22″ square $160
18″ L x 10″ W (pictured) $134
24″ L x 14″ W $152

Crate&Barrel

Kendal Big Lidded Bags – $27.95

These lidded woven baskets with handles are a very pretty way to stash toys, books, games, DVDs, electronic equipment, and that heap of junk on the coffee table that needs to be hidden quickly when company comes over.

Large Tote. 16.25″ x 12.25″ x 9.25″H
Durable water hyacinth at a tight weave with useful cutout grips
Handwoven
made from green water hyacinth and recycled paper chipboard
$27.95

Lamps Plus

Rustic Fireplace Log Basket – $69.91

This practical log basket looks fine next to the hearth and will keep logs directly where you desires them without messing up the rug. If you are feeling really generous, throw in a package of kindling to decide on this.

Roman bronze powder coated finish
23″ W x 12″ H x 13″ D
$69.91

jaysonhomeandgarden.com

CERAMIC URCHIN BOX – $30

This sweet little sea urchin box is wonderful to get a coastal home or for someone you know is missing the shore.

Glazed Ceramic
5″ diameter x 2.5″H
$30

Anthropologie

Petal-Illuminated Bud Vase  – $16

These modest floral lovelies are still an expensive-looking present at a reasonable price. Available in turquoise, purple or cherry.

Earthenware
5.5″H x 4.5″ W
$16

Urban Outfitters

I felt sort of guilty about making the present guide for anglers a”No-Gnome Zone,” so I am throwing one to the living room category. He’s really a container, and he seems pretty cute with his hat off or on!

6″W x 13″H
Made from white glazed ceramic with a metallic coated gnome hat lid
Handmade
Perfect for everything from cookies to treasures
$68

Design Public

Heather Lins Home Science Project Pillow – Anatomy – $220

Ali of the blogAsiz’s Child states,”The Heather Lins Home pillows are ideal conversation starters for almost any family/media room. My favorite is that the Science Project Anatomy pillow. Who wouldn’t want a little science class refresher class in their couch?”

Wool felt background
Applique Made from Sensuede (made of recycled polyester, based on both post-industrial and post-consumer sources, including PET soda and water bottles)
Hidden zipper at bottom
Pillow insert: 5 percent down/95% feather
Sewn in the USA
17″ H x 17″ W
$220

Urban Outfitters

Mercury Glass Votive Holder – Set of 3 – $16

Living and family rooms require candlelight too! These elaborate little votive holders possess a bit of the exotic. Pick up one of those large bags of tealights at IKEA to go with it so that your friend will be able to use them nightly for at least a year.

Mercury Glass Votive Holder – Set of 3
3″ diameter x 3″ high
$16

www2.jcpenney.com

Fireplace Screen – $49.99

This fireplace screen is practical and decorative. The design includes branches with birds and pine cones–a fantastic pick for anybody with a fireplace that likes country style.

Matte black finish with dark brown highlights
Metal
383/4 W x 111/4 D x 321/2″H
$49.99

DwellStudio

DwellStudio Ovals Gray Quilted Play Blanket – $96

This gentle quilted blanket is great as a lap throw, or even to pay a scratchy rug or hardwoods when little ones are ready to play on the ground.

Quilted on both sides and reversible
36″ x 50″
$96.00

West Elm

Tiled Bone Picture Frames

This framework works well in any type of space; masculine, feminine, industrial attic, Hollywood Regency — you name it. Since most of us are too busy to back up our documents, not as much print and frame our digital pictures, personalize this framework by locating a photograph you know your giftee will enjoy, and place the entire thing together before wrapping this up.

Wood makeup; tiled bone.
5.5″ x 6.5″ Frame holds 4″ x 6″ photo ($19.00)
7.5″ x 7.25″ Frame holds 5″ x 8″ photo ($24.00)

Pottery Barn

Vintage Pewter Single Screen Fireplace Screen – $169

This hand-forged pewter fireplace screen has a contemporary shape created in traditional design. It is freestanding and does not require the typical tri-fold set up. Coordinating fireplace tools offered individually.

Fireplace Screen: 39″ W x 7.5″ D x 34.5″ H
Crafted of hand-forged iron with a distressed pewter finish
$169

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