Dangerous Curves Ahead

Don't you just love the pendulum swing of design? As if in response to several seasons of Mad Men influenced home furnishings, this Market offered plentiful signs that femininity is on the rise. Bold, unstoppable, unapologetic femininity.

Pink was everywhere - and more importantly, the RESPONSE to pink was overwhelmingly positive. Bottom line: it's selling. Amping it up even more was the introduction of more curvaceous furniture. This sofa above? I like to think of it as the Sofia Vergara of sofas. Full force feminine form and dressed to the nines. Like Sofia, this curvaceous sofa has ample va-va-voom. Enough for the whole room. And when used as a pair? Stand back, baby! Mama is making her presence known and daring (begging?) everyone in proximity to stop and stare.

So what do we think of all this interior design drama? I for one love it. And the Decorista seems to have taken a liking to the shapely trend as well. I say bring on the peonies, bring on the pink, bring on the boom-boom-pow. We're ready for it!

{Note: sofas above are brand new and have not yet been added to online catalog but it is available for orders. These were seen for the first time at Spring Market in High Point. Get more info here and reach out to your local Pearson rep or showroom to place an order.}

 

Dragon Tales

We were so inspired by the High Point Market Authority's 2012 Spring Fashion report that we decided to follow suit. In the comprehensive breakdown of trends, they highlight Year of the Dragon influenced products.

Pearson's fierce new blue and white fabric made the cut, as did a handful of other great finds. If you're looking to add a mythological element to your next space, 2012 is indeed the year. Dragons, chinoiserie and other Chinese zodiac honoring products hit the floors at every price point.

While a porcelain vase is still the most classic way to honor this trend, we love the idea of being a bit less predictable. After all, the dragon symbolizes strength, boldness and brash confidence. All important traits when it comes to styling your life and your home. And who couldn't use a little more fire in their design?

Featured: Pearson 1408 Chair; Mottahedeh Blue Dragon Dinnerware; Chinese Jar; Dragon Candelabra

Head of the Class

Across the board, one of the biggest trends seen at April Market was oversized headboards. Tall, powerful, statement-making headboards. We spied many variations on the theme at showrooms near and far. Jeanine Hays of AfroChic has one of the better roundups of the attention-getting trend.

There's an art to this look, of course. For me the trick is juxtaposing more dainty or at least more delicately scaled night tables next to the bed. Otherwise the bed itself (and corresponding massive headboard) can overwhelm a space.

In the photo above (of Pearson's newest upholstered bed) Jennifer and crew flank the masculine bed with travertine topped tables with cinched bronzed legs. Curvaceous lamps and playful pillows keep the look from being too handsome or too serious.

And did you spy those fat feet on the bed? Solid maple and seriously dramatic. With biscuit tufting and wingback styling this bed isn't for those without a brave streak for design. But I do think that its tailored appearance helps balance the overall vibe and keep it from looking to extreme. It's a statement piece that escalates the sophistication level of the bedroom. And isn't that what we all want from a headboard?

 

Friday's Featured Fabric: Electrifying Ikat

Today's featured fabric is one of my absolute favorites. It's an ikat that comes in three gorgeous colorways. The close-up above, shown in scarlet (which reads like brick in person, with olive and mustard gold acents), is the warmest of the three. My favorite without question is the turquoise. It is absolutely sensational in person. But the tobacco variety, a quiet sibling to the others, has the ability to mix in with nearly any color scheme. I love it's chameleon like qualities.

The detail and intricacy of this woven textile is almost electrifying in person. Each brilliant coloration outshining the other, with the geometric pattern enhanced by the radiance of the individual threads. This is a sensational fabric choice for an accent or to upholster an entire piece. For the right client, this is a really exciting addition to the mix.

Here's the skinny:

    Content: 77% Rayon, 23% Polyester
    Pattern: Jacquards
    Width: 56 "
    Repeat: 14 1/2 " Vertical & 27 " Horizontal
    Fabric Grade: 42
    Application: Indoor
    Durability: heavy
    Cleaning Code: s-professional cleaning

To top it off, this beautiful textile is made in the United States. You needn't go far for fabulous fabrics! Ask your local representative for a sample or stop into a nearby showroom to feel the incredible hand on this beautiful ikat.

Stepping Out

Here in Dallas the pools never really "close" for the season. While no one actually swims in December, the "chilly" season is so brief there's not much need to drain and then refill the pool. It's that consistent exposure to sparkling blue waters that raises the importance of outdoor space.

For some it's a modest patio or balcony. Others enjoy full outdoor kitchens with ample space to entertain a crowd.

My home is somewhere in between. I have a generously sized covered patio overlooking our back yard. The house wraps it leaving just the southern side exposed. While the sunshine is glorious, when it hits 100+ outside I'll be begging for coverage from this bright shining star. besides, I have furniture inside I wish to protect from unnecessary fading. Enter: custom drapes.

My project this spring is to design floor-to-ceiling custom panels to transform this large space into a built-in cabana feel. Naturally I've gone online for inspiration. House Beautiful serves up plenty of all-weather eye candy to enjoy. I especially love the pink accented space at bottom right (see video here).

My natural inclination for the seat cushions is to rush to the Trina Turk Sunbrella collection of all-weather fabrics. That's a given. But for panels I plan be more neutral. Classic ivory is always a smart bet, letting the view (both of the patio and from the patio) be the focus. I'm going for a that classic 5-star hotel cabana look, as you can tell. And creamy panels billowing in the breeze nails the look (minus the attentive staff).

The sheer range of weather-worthy fabrics is remarkable these days. Major brands boldly offer a massive range of solids and nature-inspired prints, but they can also be expected to wow you with herringbone, plaid and velvet. Yes, plush velvet.

We have an abbreviated assortment of our perennial fabrics listed on the textiles site, but as you plan your projects be sure to ask your rep or your local showroom for closer look at the full range of fabrics ready to help you take on your summer spaces. Pearson has many all-weather fabrics that are exclusive to the brand, ensuring your look is one of a kind. Remember, your outdoor living space can be just as plush and marvelous as the inside. And come summer, you'll want this to be the case.

Credits, clockwise from top left: Victoria Pearson, Ngoc Minh Ngo for designer Fern Santini, Ken Hayden shot the above mentioned rosy rooftop,  Reed Davis for Cathy Kincaid - all via House Beautiful. 

Scene & Heard

We thought we'd share mentions and observations from stylish designers and bloggers who attended Market. Regardless of how much fluffing and obsessing as you do over a showroom before opening day, the only thing that matters is customer response. Sure it may be pretty, but is is marketable? Is there a client in their books for that new console? Are there rooms in projects that would be perfect for using this new upholstery or that new imported fabric? That's the power of Market.

Here's a roundup of a few mentions from some of our favorite blogs:

• - Donna Vining, a celebrated interior designer from Houston noted the continuing influence of Mad Men on home furnishings. Her choices were spot on and we were flattered she chose to highlight our bolstered bench and brand new armless tufted chairs in her post.



• - Richard Rabel, an accomplishes interiors expert and art advisor in NYC and author of The Modern Sybarite, highlighted the awesomeness of our glamorous Art Deco-inspired three-tier table. Ball feet, panted black glass shelves and undeniable elegance make this a winner in almost any design environment. I suspect Richard's stylish clients would agree. Thanks for the mention, Richard!



• - Designer Cline Rose spied one of my favorite ottomans (I happen to own this very frame in the most remarkable metallic textile!) and remarked upon the large scale of upholstery she noticed at Market. I also enjoyed how she parsed out her trendspotting of the four D's in the post: Driftwood, Deep Blues (of which Pearson offered many), Daybeds and Details. Be sure to read more on her blog Design in Bloom.



• - Heather, designer and blog author behind Georgia James, featured our super chic chain link table in her roundup of favorite finds from Market. Can I just say I love Heather. Her bio makes me love her even more. 

These were all great posts from talented designers. Be sure to continue followng their blogs for more stylish selections from their trained eyes.

Happy weekend, all!

Spotted!

Did you follow the High Point Market Style Spotters? We certainly did. Whether or not you were in Carolina for April market, this talented crew did a fantastic job selecting the most eye-catching finds from showrooms large and small. Knowing that it is impossible to see everything during Market, this is a remarkable idea. It allows all of us to follow along and identify emerging trends, quirky product introductions and noteworthy pieces.

Beyond the obvious fun of being chosen as a Style Spotter, each individual has the opportunity to win a coveted prize: a free trip back to Market in October. If your Pinterest pinboard garners the most repins and "likes" you are declared the winner.

Traci Zeller wowed us with her choices, one of which was Pearson's brand new etagere. Standing tall with a gilded frame, beveled glass shelves painted black on the back. These are supremely glam and stopped many visitors in their tracks.

Traci chose this new occasional piece as one of her Style Spotting picks and caused quite a stir with designers and clients alike. We just learned that this talented Carolina designer WON the contest! Congratulations to you Traci and thank you for featuring one of our new introductions in your picks.

We would also like to extend a warm thank you to ALL of the Style Spotters for featuring such remarkable finds. It really enhances the Market expeience and is an incredible way for new brands and small vendors to be discovered. We look forward to seeing where Pinterest and technologies like it take the world of design.

Congrats again, Traci!

Friday's Featured Fabric

There are so many incredible fabrics in the Pearson Textiles inventory that we'll be starting a regular feature to feature one each week. In each post I'll provide a close-up photograph as well as any details about the textule that can't readily be determined from viewing the sample online. It's a great way to familiarize you with hidden treasures and perennial favorites from the Pearson fabric collection.

This week's entry may be a bit premature, as the fabric is not even visible online yet. So accept my apology now - I just can't hold back!

Those of you who visited during Market noticed the showstopping tangerine dining arrangement. The banqette and the side chairs were uphlostered in this remarkable fabric shown above. I can't look at this remarkable pattern and not think of an Hermes Avalon blanket or pillow. In fact, if Gucci and Hermes had a baby I suspect it would look like this. There's an irresistable chain link in the pattern, but the way tis is woven will be  delight to any Hermes home accessory fan. It's really stunning - in person and in photographs.

The lowdown, for those of you working up plans for clients is: 58% cotton, 42% rayon; cleaning code S; width 59, repeat H-14.5 V-14. Choose from three remarkable colors.

This beautiful fabric and all of Pearson's April introductions will be online soon.

Showstoppers in the Showroom

Whew. Is everyone recovered (or recovering) from Market? Traffic was great in spite of the unfriendly weather. Much thanks to all of you who joined us for our cocktail party Sunday night. And warm thanks to everyone who ventured by for a peek at our new introductions or just to say hello.

The name of the game this year is color, color, color. And where there's color, there's pattern. Our showroom really reflected these trends and we delivered them with our own unique twists. As a recap, I'll show you just a few of the highlights of the showroom.

1. This dramatic blue and white fabric was showcased beautifully on the back of these Louis XVI dining chairs. You may also notice the new finish being shown on the frames... more on that in a future post. We're sure it will be a huge hit.

2. Sitting next to this adorable shagreen topped fretwork table is a classic chair with English arms. What makes this truly remarkable is the railroaded fabric applied with such great precision. We love how the textile works PERFECTLY on this upholstered frame.

3. Tangerine Tango, anyone? Who could resist the sunny appeal of this dining group. Velvet host chairs, a settee on one side and painted framed chairs on the opposing side (with classic x's on the backside) - I swoon over this little arrangement. That fabric is new and I'll be sharing much more about it once it's live on the web site. For now, note that it comes in three fantastic colors.

4. Peacocks are still going strong in the world of design. This embroidered fabric has a very large scale pattern and offers designers many opportunities to showcase their creativity.

5. Pearson's new bed program offers headboards AND footboards and bedframes now. This French-inspired option is sure to be a runaway hit.

6. While there are many things to point out in this photo, it's the new Italian digital watercolor print fabric that I'd like to point out. This comes in two colorways. Shown here is the indigo and yellow version. If you think this is pretty, you'll love the teal and raspberry version. True statement makers.

7. Oh, pink. I normally don't instinctively jump for pink in home decor. This vignette, however, is a true exception. Notice the curved sofas flanking the beautifully upholstered Star of India ottoman. I saw this and knew immediately I needed that ottoman. Just look at how this arrangement begs for you to unwind, sip a favorite beverage and settle in for a lengthy conversation with your favorite people. It's incredible. And the pink somehow makes the overall look even more inviting. {Beautifully done, Jennifer!}

Stay tuned for specific details on the new frames and textiles seen above. We have MUCH more to show you!

Fashion + Decor

The marriage of runway fashion and home interiors has been celebrated for years. Blogs, especially, have driven home the parallel universes that exist and the give and take relationship of trends ebbing and flowing from one to the next.

And while many blogs and mags have a regular feature comparing style of the two disciplines, Fashion + Decor specializes in such pairings. The site launched just this week and is driven by talented founder Gretchen Aubuchon. She along with her lineup of contributors offer us terrific StylePairs with a focused approach. Fashion + Decor is exactly what it sounds like: runway ensembles and stunning rooms that bear a striking similarity.

Rather than just glaze over this all-star lineup of contributors, I'll point out the talented crew. Tyler Wisler (a personal favorite!), Lisa Ferguson (of Decor Mentor fame) the talented Julie Browning Bova as well as Stacy Kuntsel (who among other this is Co-founder dunesandduchess.com), Rochelle Greayer Co-Founder and Editor of Leaf Mag), Interior Designer Jennifer Glickman, Kerry Epstein, Managing Editor Anne Flanders, Kathleen Cozzi and Andrea Cozzi. Clearly this is a site with a bright future. I'm excited to see so many familiar faces doling out daily inspiration for our viewing pleasure.

Image above of Jil Sander RTW Spring 2011 (by Imaxtree)+ House Beautiful (by Francesco Lagnese)

Fresh for Spring From Pearson

Spring Market is here! To get things rolling here are a few of my absolute favorite new introductions from the design team.

1. A Louis XVI bed made in solid maple that is just gorgeous. I love the carving and the turned legs... but those nailheads and smart low footboard seal the deal!

2. A very cool mid-century styled chair with biscuit tufting and a picture frame back. What I really adore is it's low-slung look and armless design. This baby is begging to be part of a pair or maybe a foursome for great conversation.

3. Where do we begin with this etagere?! I love it. A soaring 84.5" high and about 2 feet wide. This lovely piece has a gilded frame and black glass shelves. I love it. I absolutely love this. Can't wait to see how our clients use this in projects.

4. Speaking of gilt finishes... this geometric cocktail table will make your jaw drop when you see it in person. It's almost too pretty to cover with accessories. Thank goodness for that bottom shelf!

5. Speaking of clean lines, this sofa boasts more good personality traits than we've seen this side of match.com. Track arms, Bauhaus styling and those big square maple feet make this piece a showroom favorite.

See more new introductions in our new Facebook gallery.

To all of you here (and headed) to Market... we look forward to seeing you! There is now FREE parking directly behind Pearson on Steele Street. This will come in particularly handy this weekend as it is expected to rain. Pack your Hunter books & sharp raincoat. Also remember we are one of several parties happening in the Hamilton Wrenn Design District Sunday afternoon/evening. Ours begins at 4pm. Swing by for nibbles and sips while rubbing elbows with industry greats and familiar friends. We look forward to seeing you!

Anticipation

As we eagerly await the kickoff of this and this, we are busy preparing for this. See you all soon!

Before & After: Greenwich Showhouse

 


The talented interior design & architectural development firm RYDC, the Manhattan powerhouse behind this stunning Connecticut showhouse, reached out to share "after" photos of the project we wrote about last October. Once we recovered from that jawdropping ceiling (satin slate against high gloss white? I'm in love!) we were able to take in the full beauty of the room. Can we just way... WOW.

The powerful ceiling treatment does an amazing job of making what could seem too large of a space seem quite intimate. The architectural detail offered by the coffered ceiling is dramatic. Just look at the scale of the circular centerpiece. The eye is immediatley drawn there, pulling you into the center of the room from the moment you enter. Smart. Adding to the sense of intimacy is the creation of distinct conversation areas within the expansive room.

In the foreground you see this majestic sectional with tufted back that practically begs for a group to entertain. We spied our glamorous antique mirror top cocktail table (a personal favorite!) just in front of it beneath those pretty tulips. The large area rug brilliantly separates this seating group from those closer to the fireplace and adds warmth.

Looking further into the scenes, against the left wall is a pair of Pearson's quatrefoil door cabinet. If you've seen these grand cabinets in person you can respect the generous size of the room. These glass-front cabinets measure an incredible 90" tall and over four feet wide. Not diminutive pieces by any definition. They are often a designer favorite due to their unique combination of delicate architectural features and generous scale. It's not an easy blend to achieve, but they do so masterfully.

In front of the nearby window is one of my favorite dining side chairs. The architectural beauty of the Louis XVI legs make this lone seat interesting enough to hold its own in front of the massive paned glass. The chocolate & taupe cut velvet fabric of the upholstery adds textural interest to this little corner.

What's really impressive to me is how the entire room manages to be both formal (thanks to the sophistication and swagger of the selected furnishings) and relaxed. It says, "come in and stay a while... but please bring your manners with you." A visual message I'd say is pitch perfect for a Connecticut showhouse.

For more work from Dwayne Clark & Ron Yeffet, be sure to visit their firm's site and like their facebook page. And our thanks to the team for sharing their updated photos with us. The room is absolutely gorgeous!

See the original post here.

 

Pre-Market Sneak Peek... Charcoal Shagreen Starburst Cocktail Table

Often the best way to outdo yourself is to literally outdo yourself. For April Market we've remixed our very popular 9742 cocktail table with the shagreen we used on our feisty 9675 bunching table to create this showstopping piece.

The new cocktail table stands out with its starburst top in charcoal faux shagreen. Contrast that with gilded galleries and legs and you have a striking piece worthy of any seating area. We love the stylistic references to the Art Deco of the 20's and 30's. Note that this beauty also has a companion side table... a hexagonal shaped little wonder in the same color shagreen that'll knock your glamour-loving socks off.

Join us April 22 for sips and bites and come see this duo in person.

Party Hop With Us!

Source: helloloveblog.com via Lesli on Pinterest

Market is almost here! We're excited that there are several parties happening in our neighborhood Sunday night, April 22. Ours goes from 4 until... who knows! The names you know and love in the press have already RSVP'd, so there is sure to be plenty of excitement here in the Pearson showroom.

Expect terrific wine, incredible passed hors d'œuvre, extra waiters on hand to help ensure you always have what you need.

Our philosophy is the more the merrier... so spread the word and bring your friends. We are looking forward to seeing everyone and showing you our new & exciting introductions.

We are located at located at 200 North Hamilton, North Court, Suite 107, at High Point Market in the Hamilton Wrenn Design District. See you there!

West Week Wrap-up

One of these years I look forward to attending West Week, the massive spring interiors show in Los Angeles at the Pacific Design Center. Aside from the dreamy LA weather, the PDC is a terrific venue for attracting big name editors and designers alike. It doesn't hurt that Margaret Russell delivered the keynote speach. Let's say I'm a fan and leave it at that.

Editor at Large was at the PDC in March to interview Suzanne Kasler, Lisa Borgnes Giramonti, Emily Ruddo, Gay Tapp, Charlotte Moss, Lisa Newsom, Shelly Van Rozenboom, Amy Meier, Typanie Peterson and Keith Granet. In the video, Vanessa Kogevinas uncovers what inspired the designers and gives insight into emerging trends in residential and commercial design. Catch the full video here.

Punch Drunk Love

Most people don't think it's the case, but Texas is ripe with colorful blooms in bright beautiful pinks throughout much of the year. My morning walks have been spoiling me with vibrant azalea bushes and annuals planted throughout the neighborhood. I return home to see even more of the rich fuchsia color in fashion and home decor. It's everywhere I look and I LOVE it!

A perfect example of home styling matching personal fashion is this marriage of Pearson's dramatic tangerine & pomegranate paisley next to Trina Turk's Caprice tunic. Am I seeing double? I do believe so. Both are festive, gorgeous and begging for a little attention. I love that we see yellow accents on each fabric, which makes the two focal colors explode visually. The ideal pairing of two of the hottest color trends happening.

Whether you go bold by upholstering a sofa in this dynamic print or play it safe with accent pillows, one thing is certain: expect to shift the mood in the room. These patterns lend life and vitality to an outfit or a home. If energizing a space is the goal, you've found your muse!

I don't know about you, but just seeing this tunic & dreaming of pretty pillows in this textile make me long for a fresh pedi. Tis the season!

Great Scot

 

One of the great benefits of twitter is getting to know so many people. I look at my long list of followers and followees and I'm stunned by the numbers. But in truth, you only interact regularly with a small number of those amazing people.

One of my favorites, as much for his verbal and sartorial wit as his design chops, is Scot Meacham Wood. Brad Goreski may be credited with the popularity of the bow tie, but I will put forth the theory that Scot may be the one who ushered in the trend. One look at his blog will tell you he's no stranger to color, pattern and tradition. Plaid (Tartan, of course!), pinstripes, houndstooth and stripes: these are all regular elements in his mode of dressing. Not to mention color!

In terms of design, look no further than his East Hampton project for posh New England styling, preppy details and happy go lucky design. In this space I love how he honored the coastal location with out ever being trite or cliche with nautical elements.

A natural fiber rug, a blue palette and a seashell framed mirror are all that is necessary to bring to mind the water nearby. For continuity, other rooms offer hurricane lanterns and framed seashell prints - but his location-centric styling ends there. The home in its entirety is classic, sophisticated and suitable for any geographic location. Although one look at that sweeping back yard and you know immediately why everyone wants a home in the Hamptons to call their own.

For more on the method of his Tartan madness see his entry in the Viewer's Choice Challenge on Joyus In the video you'll learn more about his aesthetic and see how he styles a room compared to several other style bloggers. It just shows that even given the same space to decorate, it is impossible to deny his Tartan flair for design. View them all and vote for your favorite!

Inspiration: David Hicks

Designs and designers come and go.. but a few leave an impact of style in their wake that transcends time and trends. David Hicks, a celebrity designer known as much for his love of gemotery as for his larger than life persona, was such a legend. His eye-popping designs and love of energizec color schemes are still found in fabulous homes today.

His rooms were characterized by extreme adherence to tailoring, symmetry and precision. You'll find no chintz here, no ruffles, no fluff. In short, his design style was as firm and bold as his famous personality. And interesting thing occurs, however, when you see a Hicks room from the past: they seem just as modern and fresh as they did at conception. Timeless design. 

Looking to add more order and a Hicksian vibe in your home? Adhere to this roundup of elements to achieve his orderly aesthetic:

1. Ventana Drum Shade Chandelier by Jonathan Adler  2. Pearson Shelter Arm Sofa  3. Pearson Hexagonal Side Table  4. Arteriors Marble Lamp  5. Surya Hexagon Rug by Paule Marrot

To Market, To Market...

It's April! You know what that means... the countdown to High Point Market has begun. By now (I pray) you've booked your room, scored early booking airfare and come up with a game plan. If not, I've got just the thing to help you.

Visit the High Point Market Authority's site, pop over to Plan Your Visit and enjoy all of the resources available to you. First timers can benefit from general information and ease of registration. Enjoy downloadable maps, restaurant guides, showroom contact information and more.

New attendee or not, don't miss the opportunity to use the MyMarket tool. Thanks to this bit of technology you can select the exhibitors, events and contacts you'll need once you hit the Carolina soil. Sign up, fill out your calendar and reap the meny social benefits of the app. First you'll notice you have quick, easy access from any web-enabled smartphone, anytime, anywhere to your itinerary. Better yet? You can even keep track of friends and colleagues on the move to you're never out of sync or out of the loop. Market just got better, don't you think?

This isn't a new tool, but I like seeing that it's gaining momentum and popularity. The more you use it, the more you'll benefit. Get started now to ensure your market experience is seamless and easy.