A Look Inside the Saddle River Showhouse

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For those of you not in the New Jersey area, you might have missed the 6th Annual Saddle River showhouse sponsored by Traditional Home.

The Open House NYC video above features four of the designers who participated and gives insider tips and decorating tips.

The rooms are all so diverse and truly reflect the different points of view of the designers themselves. The garden room is colorful and open, but the dining room is luxurious and intimate. I love the diversity shown! Of course I love the kitchen, as it is a sexy blend of traditional and contemporary. Perfectly on point. And did I mention it's white? A personal favorite. But don't miss the "happy" library with eye-popping colors and a heady mix of fresh fabrics on traditional pieces. Love!

The showhouse is open to the public through June 10th. Don't miss your chance to see it!

Wheel of Fortune

If you're in the south, you know by now that it's already summertime. It's bright and sunny days like today that make me whip out my trusty Sunbrella fabric wheel and give it a whirl. Will I go safe and neutral or live it up with a li'l bit of color? Since I can't seem to live without Trina Turk in my life (or on my patio) I'm going to opt for the latter. Poppy pink, feisty orange, cheerful yellow against a backdrop of sand. Yeah, baby!

So rich and pretty it's difficult to believe these are colorfast and weather resistant. Hallelujah!

It may surprise you that I'm actually planning to use this is my daughter's room. The plan is to customize two ottomans to make for fun seating at her craft table. Acrylic duck is just about indestructible, withstanding even the trickiest of stains. So I know I can fearlessly beautify these grand little pieces and they will outlast, outwit and outplay even the most exciting of playdates.

See a handful of Pearson's Indoor/Outdoor fabrics here. But be sure to ask your rep or your nearest showroom to outfit you with the range of options available through Pearson Textiles. Let your creativity run wild!

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?

 

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!}

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.

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.

Classic Roots, Modern Times

Home Fashion Forecast always has an objective outlook on the marketplace as a whole. For 2012 they've noted just how diverse the design landscape is for interiors. Clients can indulge in their love of modern, classic or retro and still be au courant in today's widely accepted range of "approved" styles.

Alongside a glorious Klismos chair, HFF featured Pearson's new 200 bench in all its bolstered glory. (I should confess here that I have a huge crush on this piece and will be getting mine upholstered in this yummy fabric.)

The bigger news here is that we as a culture are having more fun and showing more confidence in our design. Gone are the days of a "color by numbers" approach to design that left us restricted and governed by "rules" or social pressures to conform.

This is truly a freeing time to be in the design industry because manufacturers are making a wide range of looks to satisfy every need at every price point. And likewise, your clients are likely just as ready to take the plunge and take more risks with their homes. After all, if you can't freely and fully express your personal taste withing the confines of your home... where can you do it?

See the rest of the issue here and take note of the wide range of periods, styles and ideas being put to great use in stylish homes across the globe.

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 New Blue

At October Market and this week's runway shows we've begun seeing pops of unexpected color entering the scene. But what about taking classic blue and giving it a new spin?

We've been seeing this unstoppable shift happen in tandem with more "out there" trends. A feisty lemon yellow living alongside prized Ming vases and blue toile.

Traditional Home offers up tips on how to handle blue without falling prey to a flat, outdated look. The trick, according to designer Ellie Cullman? Mixing textures and paying special attention to lighting in the space. This maintains a level of warmth in the room and keep it from ever looking like your grandmother's chintz-laden living room.

The February-March issue featured some beautiful elements to inspire. One of them was our 1416 French Bergère in our new exclusive tie-dye stripe fabric. Classic with a twist? Yes. It's the ultimate blend of traditional meets modern. The artisanal quality of the natural fabric keeps the very familiar form of the chair from looking too stuffy.

Looking at Ellie's paint selections and carefully selected design elements, it's clear she's paying homage to the past without being mired in it. We particularly love the graphic "Pow Wow" rug by Capel and the Soicher Marin "Blue Botanical Urn" print. Bold and beautiful.

See more at http://www.traditionalhome.com/">TraditionalHome.com.

The Pinking of Pinterest

I don't think there's any doubt that today's designers and creatives are using technology to their advantage. How better to create a moodboard on the fly and share those ideas with the masses, or keep it to yourself until your big reveal. It's easy, clean, keeps track of sourcing for you and can either be kept forever or disposed of at a moment's notice. After all, pixels are free and it's our choice what we wish to do with them.

While there are myriad tools at our disposal, the critical mass has been established at Pinterest making it one-stop-shopping for those in search of the pretty and the fabulous.

One of our favorite design firms, Woodson & Rummerfield, used Pinterest to create a Lucy Doheny idea book. In the melange that is jaguar meets pink meets Lucite, we think they captured the mood and the mystery of this infamous woman beautifully. No doubt this was a powerful resource as Jaime and Ron crafted and perfected their vision for Maison de Luxe.

Dare to discover more here...

Center Stage

One of the most tweeted and talked about pieces at High Point Market (October '12) was the new 9673 center table. Between its chain link legs and travertine top, designers and buyers alike were smitten by her elegant good looks. Those retro-styled bronze finish legs are only complimented by the 1" thick travertine top that rests upon the base.

At 48" diameter and 30" high (including the top) this beauty offers shocking versatility. Is she an entry table in a gracious foyer? A glamorous dining table in a posh high rise? The possibilities are as endless as her geometric beauty.

For the more adventurous among you, the base can be ordered separately (she is a nimble 41" w x 41" d x 29" h) and can be topped in any fashion you choose. Reclaimed wood? Vintage aged mirror with one-of-a-kind appeal? What about a dramatically beveled glass top to really play up the unique patterns formed by those Iron and cast aluminum square tube legs?

We can't wait to see how you talented designers choose to personalize this piece. In my home I'd certainly opt for creamy, dreamy travertine (partly because we don't often see this material used in this fashion)... but I just know there will be some incredible custom pieces created from this base in the coming months. Be sure to share them so we can showcase your marvelous talents!

The Delectable Sectional

For years I eschewed the idea of a sectional. It seemed "undone" at best and limiting at worst. That is until I moved and my new living area presented the ideal opportunity to finally cave in to my secret love of them. Done right, a sectional doesn't actually have to be casual and decidedly informal. Truth be told, mine is pretty swanky. Tufted seating, shimmery icy-blue velvet, tuxedo arms. There's nothing about this baby that is causal.

Lauren from Material Girls has a nice post that addresses the changing nature of this once sloppy choice. The ghost of sectionals past always comes in to haunt a project when clients (or designers) hear the word sectional. Fortunately, today's designs are often tailored, sleek and refined.

Yes, there are still relaxed family friendly options available. But Pearson and a handful of other brands have firmly entrenched the accommodating sectional in the category of chic seating options.

One choice is the 2398 frame. Sleek tailored arms, angled feet and crisply defined loose cushions make this a solid choice for a variety of projects. I've seen this customized in a variety of ways and it always comes off looking stylish and crisp. Two words not often associated with this type of sofa.

For those who prefer a more bold design, the 2378 has optional tufted bench seating, tuxedo arms and a dramatic exposed frame. While both can be configured any way you can imagine, the 2378 now comes with the option of chaise or even a coordinating daybed. This is far and away my favorite (I actually have this piece) and I love the ample seating it affords when entertaining and its handsome good looks when not a soul is in the room.

Whichever frame you choose, know that it can be customized any way you wish. Endless fabric options, custom finishes, optional trim and myriad seating configurations. Still don't see what you want? Just ask - they'll build it to your exact specifications.

Rest assured, "sectional" no longer means informal seating that reads bachelor casual or family den. Today's frames are posh enough to be positioned prominently in swanky hotel lobbies and the most stylish of homes. Is your living room next?

Elle Decor: Showroom Etiquette

While most of us know how to behave in public (with the exception of unexplained awkwardness in public elevators), there's still a risk of social fumbling for clients (and professionals) in designer showrooms. Elle Decor has gathered a list of 15 tips to remember when shopping with (and without) your clients for a project.

Being prepared and polite naturally rise to the top, but many of the other guidelines cover communication basics and setting expectations. None of these are overly complex, but I suspect these showroom shopping basics are often forgotten or ignored by even the best in the field.

For expertise and feedback from the side of the showroom staff, Elle Decor tapped Thomas Lavin of Thomas Lavin and our own J. David Hatfield, Director of Sales for Hickory Chair Pearson in New York.

I've shorteded their tips above, but you can see the full interview on ElleDecor.com.

As Seen In: St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles

St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles is consistently good to us. This week the magazine featured our sleep sofa 4409-2 (last row, second from right) as designed by G.M. Doveikis & Associates. The collection of goods they rounded up for their story Hello Handsome showcased the ongoing movement towards menswear inspired fabrics, furniture and décor. Rather than being rakish, these elements each provide quiet masculinity and balanced by sophisticated polish.

Also shown in the lineup is our undeniably handsome 2328-2 Leather Sofa. Although this can be covered in any of our fabrics, we love how it looks in tobacco colored leather with brass nailhead trim. The exposed legs and sleek arms keep the piece from being overtly mannish, but we still like his slightly rugged sensibility and feel this stylish piece would be right at home in any gentleman's quarters.

The Art of Accessorizing

{Image via Mrs. Howard personal Shopper}

I just uncovered a great blog post by interior designer Jennifer Reynolds. She lays out her five main considerations when accessorizing a space as well as revealing her favorite elements to add to a room. Her fab five were (and I quote):

• Fresh flowers (botanicals or edibles) – can also be a very high quality faux, read my lips….HIGH QUALITY:)
• Coffee table books as well as beautifully leather bound books or similar (I think I have a book fetish)
• Tall objects such as lamps, candle sticks or hurricanes
• Found objects like antiques, unique treasures or one-of-a-kinds
• Framed art and mirrors of all shapes, sizes and styles

Great list. Go back and read her post to see how she focuses on key elements like scale (Go big or go home!), quality (inexpensive should never look cheap), planning and budget basics.

Don't sully a perfectly beautiful space or incredibly made furniture by completing the room with under-scaled tchotchkes or poorly designed items. Take your time, pay closer attention and nail it with well-chosen items that enhance the space.

As Seen In: TheHome.com Video

Fall '11 Market Interview with Pearson Furniture from TheHome.com on Vimeo.

Listen and watch as creative director Jennifer McConnell dishes on colors, menswear inspired fabrics, styles, and other inspirations that Pearson brought to this fall's High Point Market.

Read the full story here on TheHome.com.

I love the colors and saturated tones seen on the upholstered pieces in this video. You'll want to note Jennifer's mention of a return to a Halston-esque glamour. I die!

And pay close attention to the surprise color star of Market this year... a return to (dare I say it?) brown! But you'll notice it's paired with stunning aubergine, plum and some incredibly beautiful shades that elevating familiar brown to full on rockstar status. It's a quick video, well worth watching!

Insider's Guide to Market: Navigating Hamilton Wrenn

You've been inside the glorious IHFC for so many hours you've lost track of time. Spend too much time indoors at Market and it begins to feel a bit like Vegas. No sign of daylight, a labyrinth of hallways and showrooms, shiny pretty things tempting your wallet and your willpower... we get it. That is, after all, the Market experience. Without a clock in sight it's easy to lose track of time. If you're not careful you could be indoors from dusk til dawn. The easy cure? Step outside and meander to the Hamilton Wrenn Design District.

What makes this area so special? Sunlight, tony little curbside art galleries & antique shops, fresh air, live jazz bands setting the stage for the evening's events, trees blowing in the cool Carolina breeze and some of Market's very best boutiques & showrooms. Honestly, it's my favorite place to linger during Market.

Walk with me as I show you my favorite stops and few hidden gems...

First stop, Pearson. Come sit in our gorgeous showroom at 200 North Hamilton and see our latest offerings as well as the antiques and unusual finds we've sourced from around the globe since April Market. There are always several one-of-a-kind items on the floor and these go very quickly once the international buyers come to place orders. If you see something you like, move quickly!

After you have perused Pearson’s new offerings, head out the front door and downstairs directly under our showroom. Our neighbor Jonathan Charles has expanded their showroom to encompass the area right underneath us. Shop their beautiful casegoods, as well as sister companies Wildwood for amazing lamps and Chelsea House for gorgeous artwork and table top. Then relax at their brand new English styled pub. (Look closely and you'll see a few Pearson pieces in there too!).

Next stop, New River Artisans. This is one of Tobi Farley’s favorite rug sources and it's located right above our showroom. New River Artisans creates one of a kind hand made rugs for the design trade, and just like Pearson, they LOVE color. Classic Fretwork looks take on a new life when rendered in turquoises and emeralds. Chippendale patterns are reinterpreted in soft grays. A small, family run company, everything is woven here in North Carolina. You might even see a few of these rugs scattered in Pearson this season!

One of our favorite places to stop in at Market is Mottahedeh. Not only do they have to die for china settings, white porcelain classic oriental figures (LOVE!) and gorgeous oriental ginger jars, but did you know they have a back room packed with seconds and discontinued items? There are tons of bargains and steals to be had in the back room, including full china sets for dinner parties and upcoming holidays. (Think holiday presents and hostess presents.)

Trust us, there are stacks and stacks of treasures! You'll never go away empty handed. They take cash or credit, and will help you find that last missing desert plate or demitasse cup to complete your collection. 200 North Hamilton St N court Suite 131, right behind Pearson on the corner.

Working up an appetite? While the area isn't known for it's restaurants, if it's early enough in the day you do have a few options. Exclusively for High Point Market, Honey Baked Ham opens a restaurant located on the 3rd floor of the 200 building (right above the Pearson showroom). They offer a variety of lunch items such as sandwiches and salads and are open every day of Market just in case the urge hits.
 
For something different, head over to the 320/330 building above our sister company Hickory Chair.  There the Spring Garden Bakery offers some great options for breakfast and lunch, and they always have yummy coffee (essential!). In addition to their usual bakery fare, they add wraps and sandwiches to the menu during Market. This is fabulous for a quick nibble. Get them while you can, as these limited offerings go quickly!

These are but a few of the things to do in this area. See the full listing of showrooms as well as the map to navigate your way. We look forward to seeing you! Stay tuned for our next post that tells you to be here in Hamilton Wrenn on Sunday night. Expect cocktails and quick bites to be on hand!

Follow Up Interview: What's New, What's Next @ 200 Lex

For those of you who weren't at the NYDC event a few weeks back, we wanted to follow up with Pearson's impossibly chic creative director Jennifer McConnell and ask the question on everyone's mind: What is new and what is next?

For a quick background, you have to realize that Jennifer's role with Pearson requires her to travel extensively in search of new techniques, new textiles, new ideas, etc. She is always, always a few steps ahead of trend and has an amazing eye for style. While global travel keeps her informed and curious, it's clear she possesses an innate flair for design. If Jennifer says it's en vogue, you can take that to the bank.

Best of all, she's bubbly, energetic and one of the most fun people I've had the pleasure to work with. Pearson has a true dynamo on their hands with her!

She took time to follow up and answer my questions about What's New, What's Next and shared more about the event. Read on to see what she has to say about the home fashion forecast and the talented company she enjoyed that evening.

Jennifer, we must know... what is new in interiors and furnishings that was evident at WNWN?
"We are definitely seeing a return to the 70’s. Whether it is 70’s glam or 70’s boho chic its taking front and center just like it is in fashion. Sparkly gold mixed with mirror feels like studio 54 disco glamour. Ikats and batiks feel much more earth mother sensible."
 
Were there signs of what we can expect next? Emerging trends? 
"More color! Everyone is finally tired of the greys and ivories. Touches of gold everywhere from furniture to bathroom fixtures, and color is taking front and center – not just “pops” anymore."
 
You walked the Hickory Chair + Pearson showroom with Michelle from Lonny and the talented duo that is Tilton Fenwick... what elements stood out to them the most?
"I brought from High Point a quick sneak preview of some of our more exciting exclusive textiles for Fall 2011. Lots of color mixed with hand crafted looks; ikats, tie dyes, batiks. Oranges, fuchsias, raspberries and indigos. They generated some of the most excitement for the event – definitely the most photographs taken. Michelle loved one tie dye stripe so much she took it with her for hopefully the upcoming issue of Lonny! Keep your eyes peeled for it!"
 
"They also loved the number of mirrored pieces mixed with the menswear looks. Michelle commented that they keep the herringbone and wool upholstery from feeling too masculine."
 
"And they both adore the 9651 shagreen bunching table!"
 
The event was a huge success by all accounts. We heard you were selling pieces directly off the floor to keep up with demand! Which item was the runaway hit for the evening? Or were there several?
"Everyone loved the small occasional pieces! They are so perfect for NYC living when space is limited so pieces have to wear multiple hats. In particular I saw one 9645 silver leafed table and one 9651 shagreen bunching table be carried out by very happy shoppers!"
 
How did the crowd respond to your newest additions, like the new chaise sectional or the swanky new sofa?
"The chaise sectional combination is just perfect for NYC living. A number of people commented on how decadent it is to own a sectional in NYC because it takes up so much space. However, they loved this version because both pieces are very small scale, and both can ride up in a passenger elevator (no freight elevator needed!) For such a small footprint, it seats quite a few, and of course looks stylish while doing it!"
 
Anything you spotted in another showroom or heard from the attendees that was unexpected or downright fabulous?
"There were so many amazing events going on – Sub Zero had celebrity chefs cooking gourmet meals in their showroom. Neirmann Weeks had a silver leafing demonstration happening – if you ever get the chance to see a demo like that make the time! It is an amazing dying craft! Laura Kirar was supporting her gorgeous new collection for Arteriors. There was so much going on, that it was too much to see in one night!"

Thank you so much for sharing, Jennifer. Looking forward to the next soiree and more importantly, excited to get a preview of those new colorful textiles coming at us this season. Color is back!

Focus On Shagreen

I have a new obsession: shagreen. I'm in the process of redesigning my living room and this incredible option keeps taunting me with its uniquely textured surface. Although Pearson tends to use faux shagreen, true shagreen is an amazingly durable exotic surface. Its unique appearance and ability to repel water make this a designer favorite for table surfaces.

You might be wondering why this creamy textile is called "shagreen." Historically, in the 17th and 18th centuries, the trend was to dye the skins green then polish them with black lacquer. It was then used as a veneer for the furnishings of the wealthy. It's verdant appearance caused the resulting finish to be known as shagreen.

Try adding a little sting to your next project to lend a slightly exotic edge to a space.

Featured: Bunching table, Cocktail Table, Butler's Tray Table.