From Russia, With Love

We all love looking at design magazines from across the globe. We may not have a clue what words grace the pages, but pictures really do say a thousand words. We may not speak fluent French, Russian or Italian, but most of us have keen eye and speak the language of style in any corner of the world. Studied well, you'll see that each culture incorporates their unique point of view into their design aesthetic, but on the whole our global style is just that: global. It's becoming more difficult to tell a Manhattan apartment interior from one in downtown Moscow. It's just the state of our increasingly diverse modern life.

So when we spied this cover of Russia's Elite Interiors magazine it was no surprise to see familiar elements of style. A modern take on the Chesterfield sofa in dashing blue. A glossy red phone booth to add a bit of whimsy to the bedroom. Poofs scattered about the massive space for casual impromptu seating. Teddy bear heads mounted on the wall... wait. What? Yes, all across the world designers and design enthusiasts have a sense of humor about their home fashions.

Inside the issue Pearson's new Peacock Crewel is showcased on our elaborate 1633 chair. If you've not seen the fabric or the chairs up close you are in for a treat. The unique silhouette and the ornate carvings on the legs serve up plenty for the eye to take in. And if upholstered in our amazing peacock crewel fabric you may find your own home worthy of design magazine coverage.

This fabric is new and was just introduced at Spring Market. Watch for it to appear on our textile website shortly. And in the meantime... be kind to those teddy bears, won't you?

Friday's Featured Fabric: Tempting Turquoise

Ahhh... what better fabric to tempt you with than this gorgeous sea-inspired beautyr? Blue, turquoise and granny apple green dance across this textural geometric woven textile to give you a medallion pattern that is fresh and vibrant. The design was inspired by hand painted Moroccan tiles. The almost cobalt blue makes me think of the azure waters of the Mediterranean and the blue domed rooftops on the isle of Santorini. Not a bad vision as we approach summer.

But let's talk texture: this textile has a thick quality and soft hand making this a very livable fabric. This is made in the United States exclusively for Pearson, so don't expect to find it elsewhere. It is exceptionally beautiful in person!

Details:

SKU: 4602-43
Content: 92% Rayon, 8% Polyester
Grade: 44
Cleaning Code: S
Width: 54
Repeat: H-7, V-7
Origin: United States

Off the Grid

Occasionally a piece of furniture comes along that makes me wish I had a larger house. More rooms. More demand. More opportunities. Or at least a massive storage unit so I could stockpile beautiful pieces for the futute. This little beauty of a cocktail table almost has me tempted to consider doing just that.

Just look at this gilded beauty. See that grid? That's beneath the glass. And lest you fear your coffee table books, bouquets and accessories would conceal her geometric beauty, let me assure you Pearson already thought of that. Notice the bottom shelf? That's right. Place your books, your memorabilia, your accents there (save for the fresh flowers) and allow the beauty of this gilded grid to shine in all its glory.

I kind of need this. Don't you?

Dimensions: 48 w x 28 d x 19 h.

Available to the trade only. The 9744 cocktail table is available through Pearson showroom and designers. Visit PearsonCompany.com for more information or to contact your nearby representative.

Follow us on twitter as we offer regual sneak peeks at new introductions.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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

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.

Market Sneak Peek: The Scene Stealer

What a week! In addition to #SXSW, the Apple keynote speech (iPad, anyone?) and the sudden realization that winter isn't really happening this year, Decor Mentor gathered together a team of designers to discuss (read: give us the inside skinny!) on what we can expect at April Market.

Decor Mentors in the mix:

• Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry: Pulp Design Studios @PULPdesigns
• Lisa L Kahn: Kahn Design Group @LisaLKahn
• Michelle Jennings Wiebe: Studio M @StudioM_
• Jennifer Brouwer: Jennifer Brouwer Design @JennBrouwer
• Elaine Williamson: Elaine Williamson Designs @elainewdesigns
• Kati Curtis: Nirmada @designerkati
• Lisa Ferguson: Lisa Ferguson Interior Design @DecorMentor

All of whom brought their A game to the tweetchat this past Wednesday. While you might have missed it, you can catch up quickly by following #HPmkt on twitter and following @HPmarketnews.

Why it matters: these aren't design "enthusiasts" cheering on the latest and greatest things to come down the furniture runway. These are established interior designers who relentlessly attend Market with the goal of opening new accounts, placing new orders, staying on top of their game and sourcing exactly what their clients need. But there's a greater goal and benefit at work here: it's an unbelievable way to further your relationships with peers, hone your craft and build new and important relationships and partnerships. Market is an absolute must for you and your business.

If you are a fellow design professional, consider looking at ELEVATE (an interactive wall for interior design pros to exchange ideas, encouragement and expertise) and joining Lisa and her posse for a Market Kickoff Party Saturday April 21st 4 PM – 5 PM at 220 Elm, 3rd Floor Balcony

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.