A Closer Look: Saddle River Showhouse

We wanted to offer you a closer look at the new 2012 Designer Showhouse. Pearson is one of the sponsors of th is project, situated on a spectacular 10 acre property in the Chestnut Ridge area of Saddle River, NJ. Traditional Home did a marvelous job attracting big name talent to put this winning project together.

Designer Angela Kumble had the opportunity to design the great room of this incredible property. She chose to use quite a bit of Pearson including the 2384 sofa, a pair of swanky 414 chairs, 1912 dining room chairs, 204 chairs and the versatile 9675 shagreen bunching tables. We love her sophisticated style and her distinctive style. Her choice of pieces is fresh and timeless at once (this is always a challenging balance to achieve), and we love the interesting mix of pieces in the scene above. I, for one, am in love with those lamps and her eclectic mix of accessories. The entire space has a collected look. I love it.

Unfortunately, this close cropped photo is all that we can show you at this time. Just a tease! For a more detailed look at this and every room in the Saddle River Showhouse you'll simply have to go on a tour yourself. Be sure to go soon, you only have a few more weeks to see this magnificent home decked out in all its splendor. The event runs until Sunday, June 10, 2012. The hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.(closed on Mondays). Tickets available here.

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!

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!

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.

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

Honoring Hadley

Albert Hadley, society's designer extraordinaire has passed away at age 91. Known for his fearless approach to design, Hadley's legacy and influence is difficult to overstate. While he might have been described as "bold" and "brave" in his designs, I always admired his stylish restraint. His rooms were never overdone. His look was never too extreme. “Never less, never more.” was his design philosophy - and it shows in his work.

If you want a quick history lesson in Albert's design past, this NY Times article does a fabulous job. But to me the most important influence Albert offered is found in his interviews and the soundbite quotes he is known for.

In an interview with House & Gardens Best in Decoration he opined, "If you really like things they all tend to be of the same spirit and they all work together... If you don’t know right away that something is something you want or can use you shouldn't buy it."

Hearing a designer share these and the more regularly shared quote, "you can never do anything for a slob" gives you a greater sense of the person himself. We are sad to see him go, but appreciate so much the rich and colorful influence he left behind.

{Sketch and photo above of the famed library in Brooke Astor's apartment. To achieve the ideal look of the bookcases it required a staggering 10 coats of oxblood red paint. The resulting combination of high gloss red and brass is somehow high drama and completely inviting. A balance only a pedigreed interior designer like Albert Hadley could pull off!}

Connect The Dots

Just a quick note to let you know you can subscribe to this blog's feed, follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and follow our pins on Pinterest. Still craving more? Join us for cocktails and an up close look at our new fabrics and furnishings in our Hamilton Wrenn Design District showroom at High Point Market.

That's Sunday, April 22 from 4-7 pm at our showroom located at 200 N. Hamilton Street, Suite 107. We look forward to seeing you!

Inspiration: Mad Men

The buzz about new season of Mad Men is impossible to ignore if you spend any time at all online. The impact this single show has had upon fashion and home interiors is hard to ignore. Everywhere you look there are guides for dressing, accessorizing or decorating in 1960's style. Saarinen tables, bar carts, crisp masculine lines... it's all very sexy and cool in its retro appeal.

We've rounded up a few of our favorite products that get us in the mood for the new season. Cigarette smoking optional.

• 1. George Nelson Wheel Clock (DWR)
  
• 2. Zebrano & Stainless Drinks Table (Pearson)
• 3. Knoll Mahogany Partners Desk (1st Dibs)
• 4. Mid-Century Inspired Bench (Pearson)
• 5. Diamond-Tufted Lounge Chair (Pearson)

Whether you are a fan of Dan and his controversial ways or not, one thing is certain: the style of the 60's is fully alive in today's interiors. And this, dear friends, is a trend we are happy to embrace.

Floral Explosion by Tilton Fenwick

You've seen a veritable explosion of primavera inspired beauty on the runway. Flowers and vibrant colors as far as the eyes can see. It's as if all of nature has landed at our fashionable feet. Now.. expect that same fearless approach to color, pattern and femininity to extend to your home.

It starts easily enough at the table. Witness this gorgeous Christian Lacroix inspired table design by interior design team Tilton Fenwick. Their starting point was the opulent “Vuelta” fabric by Christian Lacroix through Designers Guild, distributed at Osborne & Little. From there, they just kept going and going (or should I say growing?) much in the fashion of nature itself.

The resulting design for DIFFA Dining by Design is their contribution to the “Emerging Designer” category at Pier 94 in NYC. It will be on display through Monday if you want to see it in person.

Be sure to see the rest of the photos and their insights on what inspired the design at their blog. Stunning, and we hope they are widely praised for their bold design!

AD Home Show Begins Tomorrow!

Hard to believe it's here again! The 11th annual Architectural Digest Home Design Show runs from March 22-25th with exhibits from nearly 400 premium brands. Naturally keynote speech by Margaret Russell, Architectural Digest Editor in Chief and appearances by many industry greats are a huge draw. But most designers come for the opportunity to shop new and established brands, preview new ideas and mingle with other industry giants. If you can make it to NYC, the one-on-one designer consultations by this esteemed list may just be enough to lure you to attend.

White, Fabulous... and Durable? Yes.

I'm a huge proponent of Sunbrella's incredible fabrics. For outdoors you ask? Not necessarily. You can make any piece of upholstered furniture glamorous and completely family (or pet) friendly by using these amazing fabrics.

Your friends will think you are bold and fearless... but you'll know your decorating secret. With Sunbrella (or any all-weather fabric), even red wine can't destroy the fabulously crisp and clean look you've created. See all of our outdoor fabrics and prepare to be amazed at how they've evolved. There are even toile and herringbone options from which to choose.

Thank you, Daily Basics!

The Look of Love

In honor of Valentine's Day, I couldn't help but be drawn back to last fall's Spring/Summer runway show by Jason Wu... specifically, his dramatic pink and white silk look.

Let's face it, when we hear of a combination of pink and white it is easy to default to thoughts of Barbie^® in her Dreamhouse. And yet, the simple addition of black as an accent or a counterpoint make the resulting look anything but saccharine.

Jason's look - much like Pearson's pink and charcoal ikat fabric - offer strength and power instead of sweetness. Yes, the joy and optimism of brilliant pink is evident. But there's nothing cloyingly sweet in either look. The effect is bold, beautiful and powerful.

What I love most about comparing Wu's runway look to this fabulous ikat textile is the interesting similarity of form. By sheer coincidence, the shape of the ikat pattern mimics the silhouette of the voluminous layers of silk of Wu's pink skirt. Stunning!

Whether you're looking to add feisty toss pillows to your project or want to fully upholster a piece in this fabulous print, rest assured visitors will gasp and gawk at the dramatic visual moment you've created. It's a look you (and your client) will be sure to love for years to come.

Featured photo: Jason Wu, Spring 2012 Ready-to-Wear Runway photo by Alessandro Farogolo via Style.com, Pearson Brilliant Pink & Black Ikat Fabric

Enjoy: Virtual Walking Tour of Paris Showrooms

I credit Jennifer for finding these fabulous videos on Editor at Large. In them, you'll enjoy a walking tour of Paris' Design District with Jessica Romm, Crans Baldwin of Donghia and Ludovic Darricau of Elitis. prepare to be wowed as you preview new fabric collections and home accessories for Paris Déco Off.

Of particular interest was that the trends and qualities mentioned are all part of our current fabric selection. Lively patterns, watercolored textiles, dip dyed and batik looks... . These are global movements in the textile industry, and we're proud to be just a skip ahead of the curve.

View the two videos in sequence: Part One and Part Two to get the full experience. We may not be at Café de Flore ourselves but we can pretend, no? Oui oui!

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The Golden Rule

This next look was inspired by Madonna's grand entrance at last night's Super Bowl halftime show. If anyone can be considered pop royalty, it's the blonde megastar we witnessed last night. She arrived on the stage in a glamorous black and gold Givenchy topped with a gold Egyptian warrior style Philip Treacy headpiece. Cleopatra style, she was was literally carried onto the stage on her golden throne by what has now been commonly referred to as a "phalanx of Greco-Roman soldiers."

While the exact historical references become quite muddied here, what was clear was that we were witnessing a mega-performance by a megastar. It was a sight to behold. The performance was inspiring in so many ways. But it led me to ponder the idea of a more grand chair in my own home. After all, a queen isn't the queen of her castle without a proper perch. The obvious choice was the 1480 chair. This is one of those marvelous pieces that can either be designed to play well with others or take center stage... depending upon how you dress it up.

For the more spectacular appearance I'm going for - directly influenced by Madge's gorgeous Givenchy costume - I've selected Pearson's new cut velvet with Greek Key pattern. Stunning in appearance and seemingly made for moments such as these. It comes in four color options, but here only glamorous black will suffice.

Next, I'd finish the chair in either Vintage Black or Piano finish, depending upon the level of formality desired. The finishing touch of course is the presence of the nail heads. After all, the Givenchy Couture dress was jewel encrusted and glistening under those stage lights. These glimmering antique brass nail heads do just the trick necessary to cement this design firmly in the glamour camp.

Fit for a queen? Absolutely. Timelessly beautiful. I feel the Greek Key and the silhouette of the chair are eternally beautiful. The black finish and antiqued nail heads ground the design and keep the finished look from becoming too theatrical. Although... no one would be the wiser if you did start belting out "Vogue" in the privacy of your own castle. After all, we all deserve our moment on the stage.

{Madonna image via Billboard}

Style, Sweet Style

Some items in a room command attention. Often it's the color, the silhouette, the fabric or some combination of the above. So imagine the beauty of a perfectly designed piece that also is upholstered in an incredible fabric. It's the Holy Grail of design.

Give yourself a head start on achieving this design nirvana with the tufted daybed featured above. Because this particular piece beckons you to come hither, I love pairing it with a touchably soft pile fabric. Think chenille or velvets. This also offers a bit of sheen that serves up unmistakable glamour. A few of my favorites? This beautiful brocade patterned chenille draws out the romance in a piece. You could also use this just as an accent on the toss pillows. A more geometric option would be this beautiful trellis chenille (yes, this is the same option Woodson & Rummerfield used in the window treatments in Mrs. Doheny's bedroom at Maison de Luxe). Or if you want to really wow them, cover it in this delicious new Greek key fabric that shimmers and shines like a jewel in the sunlight. 

Why love a daybed? So many reasons. Versatility. Timeless style. Showstopping good looks. This particular piece could be used in the middle of a room or as seating on the edge. I love the idea of two identical daybeds positioned parallel to one another with a stunning cocktail table in between them (if you choose that option, by all means go for the gold with this one). It's dramatic and inviting at once. The large toss pillows make it almost irresistible as a plump and posh place to sit.

If you are anything like me, nailing that combination of form and fabric requires analysis bordering on what others might consider obsessiveness. You find yourself looking at samples in every imaginable light and at different times of day. It's an arduous process, but when you've finally made your decision you know it's right. And, yes, when the finished piece (your masterpiece) arrives weeks later and friends gasp before finding the words to appreciate your custom creation... let's just admit it: all of that obsessing was totally worth it.

See all of our new introductions in this gallery and our most recently introduced fabrics here.

Countdown to the Napa Valley OKL Tag Sale

Two days to go until the Traditional Home tag sale begins on One Kings Lane. Featured are beautiful items that were featured in the Pearson and Lee vignettes during the Opening Night Gala at last fall's Napa Valley Film Festival.

What does this mean for you? One of a kind or custom pieces specifically designed and chosen to stage the space for this celeb-studded installation. There's also more than a good chance that a Hollywood celeb or other well-known name sat in the chair you'll choose or rested their glass of vino on your future cocktail table. Now that's something we can all raise our Riedel to, I'm sure!

Should you need an invite OKL, snag one here. Sale begins Monday morning, February 6.