Artwork adds instant character to a home, in my opinion. I’ve been noticing some really fabulous ways to display collections. Here are a few:
Above: From My Scandinavian Retreat
Below: From SkonaHem
I’ve also included this image, because I love the prints.
I always like going to design shows. Despite the blandness of most convention halls, I normally come out feeling re-energized in some way. At this year’s IDS in Toronto, I admit I was more impressed with some of the opening night outfits than the exhibits. I know, I know, that’s harsh. I’m impressed with anyone that can pull off a decent booth – I give total credit for that. But I was hoping to find a bit more. I don’t know what exactly, but just a bit more.
There were definitely a few pieces that caught my eye. Bauhaus had a great set of sliding doors on display, as pictured below.
Lema s.p.a. got me quite jazzed about doing the closets in our new house.
Atelier LC2 displayed a lovely walnut desk, called the Veto. The picture doesn’t do it justice, but the wood had heft and you could lift a slat to reveal a hidden drawer. I thought it was quite beautiful.
I also thought Light Form had some really cool lamps. Check out the Fork Floor Lamp by Foscarini.
Studio EyeSpy had a fabulous Studioilse lamp tucked away in the corner (available at DWR).
Klaus by Neinkamper also displayed some amazing pendants.
But really, the booth that got me to stop cold in my tracks was IKEA. Yes, IKEA. I could not believe the kitchen they had on display – I even loved their chairs.
Come to think of it, I should take back my initial comments. Turns out there were quite a few inspirational pieces after all. Plus, I didn’t even make it to the Jaime Hayon discussion. I wish I’d made it to that one.
So, there you have it – a slow start with a strong finish. I do feel re-energized after all. Sorry about that.
Perhaps it’s the festive time of year that’s got me dreaming of light. But I seem to be noticing fabulous pendant lamps everywhere.
I recently discovered the glass blown pendant collection by Bocci. Designer Omer Arbel has created a stunning line. I love the Pendant Cluster – consisting of seven globes nestled together. Their 14 collection also makes a serious statement.
Did I mention that they’re a Vancouver based company? What’s not to love?
When I love a piece of art, I fall instantly. It’s strange really, considering I’ve been known to stagger with simple choices like ordering at a restaurant or picking an evening venue. But if I see a piece of artwork that I love, I start scheming for ways to make it mine or at least visit it as often as possible (ah, thank you, Andreas Gursky).
Recently, I was dropping off some rugs at Hollace Cluny. If you haven’t visited their store on 1070 Yonge Street in Toronto, please do. Owner Susan Fowlie has a knack for finding pieces to inspire. It was there that I fell for the Big Scissor Print by Alana Cavanagh. It’s often the simplest images that I gravitate towards most. Lately I’ve had a tendency to add too much detail and this image reminded me the power of pairing back. Fitting, I suppose, that I fell for a pair of scissors. 