When examining trends in the luxury furniture market today, one can see that there is an increasing fascination with incomparable handmade pieces that are often crafted from reclaimed materials and reveal traces of bygone times. The allure of using repurposed wood to build exceptional, distinctive furniture has soared in popularity in recent years, with terms such as industrial chic and rustic contemporary commonly used to convey the marriage of historic, salvaged pieces with contemporary home furnishings.  While this design aesthetic continues to emerge, there has been a dearth of online retailers who exclusively feature this specific genre and are able to depict the attributes of superior craftsmanship and building methods in a visually appealing, creative and informative venue.

Enter Homespun Design, a newly founded online purveyor of high end, quality heirloom pieces curated from a growing artisan community around the country.

Established in 2014 by Joe Noonan, Homespun Design seeks to fill this niche market with an online presence that highlights the inherent beauty and uniqueness of handcrafted furnishings.  Joe’s extensive background at Wayfair, the largest online retailer in the home space, enabled him to see that there was a growing number of discerning internet-first shoppers searching for highly specialized creations that were outside the scope of the mass market furniture offerings.

In answer to that need, Homespun Design focuses exclusively on honoring the age-old traditions of handcrafted furniture and accentuating the distinguishing characteristics of each “maker’s” approach. (The website has a feeling of rustic and elegant simplicity, featuring photographs and copy that draw the customer into the world of the craftsmen and explore the region where they are based.)  Homespun has already enlisted makers from around the country who work in many different styles – ranging from shaker to arts and crafts and mid-century – thereby providing a compelling array of distinctive, timeless centerpieces for the home.

As Homespun illustrates, the benefits of reclaimed wood are many –the resilience and timeworn attributes of old growth wood translate into a piece that is built to last. Transforming the wood from its original state also provides a naturally distressed, industrial look, which dovetails with the prevailing trend in interior design today.  Lastly, the rarified lumber and meticulous craftsmanship imbued into each piece by a singular artisan guarantees that no two items are the same and bestows it with a historical significance that is matchless.

While Homespun values craftsmanship and beauty above all else, it also has a keen interest in representing furniture makers who embrace environmental sustainability.  All of the site’s products are proudly crafted in the U.S. and are sourced locally whenever possible, thereby significantly reducing the carbon footprint that many of the mass market furniture makers have created. The geographic location of each maker has its own historic relevance, based on the origin of the lumber.  For example, Rustbelt Reclamation, based in Cleveland, Ohio, sources its wood and metal from industrial buildings in the city and other proximal areas in the Rustbelt.  Another maker, Reclaimed Rustic Woodworks, obtains its wood from abandoned barns and inns in its home state of Wisconsin and surrounding Midwestern states.  This transformation of buildings destined for demolition and brought back to life in another form provides an unparalleled opportunity for an ongoing conversation and inquiry into various landmarks and regions around our country and a sense of pride in owning a piece of its history.

While not all of Homespun’s makers are using reclaimed materials, they are all committed to their own exacting standards of exceptional quality workmanship and dedication to sustainable practices.  Browsing the site offers customers an intimate look into each maker’s inspired vision and artistry.  Through that exploration the customer will see that every maker, much like every piece of handcrafted furniture, has its own inimitable story to tell – Homespun Design invites you to create your own.
For more information please visit HomespunDesign.com

Whether you’ve just bought your new home and want to decorate, or you’re selling a house you’ve not changed in years, your choice of interior design is going to be important.

There are many ways that a home can look messy, out-dated or soulless with the wrong redesign. If you want to create a space that pleases your guests or new buyers, there are a few traps to avoid. We went straight to the professionals to gather up 4 of the biggest faux pas you can make when giving your home a face-lift. Read on for their essential expertise.

1.    Too Much Visual Clutter

In the Victorian era, the thought was that if one pattern was good, then four would be better. This led to a busy mishmash of prints and patterns often still seen in older homes that have been occupied by the same tenants for decades. A lifetime’s collection of knickknacks, mementos, and ornaments can further contribute to the clutter. The problem is that we grow comfortable with our charming surroundings and nostalgic tokens, and we can no longer view our homes with fresh and objective eyes.

But today’s modern tastes, especially among younger adults seeking their first houses, runs in the opposite direction. Now it’s all about clean lines and unobstructed views. Josie Abate, principal of Ambiance Design Group, advises sticking to the essentials: “Whether looking at your furniture or anything else in the room, ask yourself if the item is truly essential. If you can live without it, get it out. Try to strip the room down to its essentials – you can always add a few choice items beyond the essentials later.” Removing unnecessary objects opens up the space, revealing the beautiful simplicity of the room’s architecture. That means it’s out with the old decorations, and in with the new design style.

     2. Dysfunctional Furnishings

Unless you frequently host parties or live with a large family, stuffing a room with lots of chairs and little tables adds to the clutter, not to your comfort. “The biggest things in any room are the furniture,” Abate notes. This is where she suggests the clean-out should begin. “The fewer pieces of furniture, the better. Think of which furniture can be eliminated without sacrificing comfort and livability.”

Victoria Stepanov of Sense of Space concurs. Every article in modern home decor must serve a purpose. If an article can serve more the one purpose, so much the better. She says, “While minimalist interiors appear, well, minimalist, each individual component must carry a primary and a secondary function. For instance, that sleek rectangular object that serves as a coffee table, also has a storage drawer on a touch-latch slide. Or, hiding behind matte glass doors is a massive built-in wardrobe, housing everything from your shoes to your vacuum cleaner.” Multi-purpose furnishings reduce the need for more pieces, meaning you can purchase a few well-made items that serve as the focal point or conversation-starter in the room.

Jane C. Dizon, writer of “9 Home Decor Mistakes Interior Decorators Always Notice,” goes on to explain that furniture should be appropriately sized for the space. Be sure to accommodate for foot traffic when choosing and arranging furniture. Although you may have limited the number of pieces in the room, they could still overwhelm the space with their ungainly size. Perhaps you’ve taken the focal point idea a little too far? Just remember that less is more in truly every sense.

      3. An Overdependence on One Design

A minimalist or modern style doesn’t mean emptying your room entirely. Dizon states that empty walls are wasted spaces: “It’s completely unwelcoming when you have nothing to look at on a wall and your focal points are on the floor.” When everything is on the floor, the room can feel cluttered even if there’s really not much in it. Light-colored shelves or racks not only move the eye off the floor and visually expand the room, but they also free up valuable storage space. Hanging artwork is another way to take advantage of every part of the space.

Another potential problem when approaching the minimalist or modern style too eagerly is the pale color palette. Without some pops of color to punctuate the space, a light-colored room can look bland and insipid. A handful of colorful throw pillows adds visual punch and can be changed out with the seasons and holidays to keep the decor fresh. Dark wood flooring juxtaposed with white cabinets and stainless steel appliances adds warmth to an otherwise cold and industrial ambiance.

Texas-based artist and designer Pablo Solomon and Dizon both agree that “being afraid to mix and match is a big mistake.” Rather than sticking to one particular style that could create a generic aesthetic, homeowners should combine pieces in different styles for uniqueness and charm. Sure, Great-Grandma’s rocking chair might not match the decor, but it’s a fabulous piece that adds personal value and hominess to the room. Mixing textures and materials promises a space filled with character and modern flair.

    4. Not Enough Natural Light

Unless you like living in a cave, every room should have a source of natural light. Natural light not only brightens the interior, but it has an expansive effect and saves on electricity. Don’t discount the importance of a good view either. The landscape out the window serves as another focal point or as a natural splash of artwork. Frame windows accordingly to take advantage of what’s beyond the wall. That means ditch the heavy window treatments that block the light and the view.

But don’t worry if your room doesn’t get much natural light. Layering light using lamps at different heights adds dimension and depth as well as showcasing focal points within the room. You can also experiment with lighting effects to bring the desired ambiance to your space. Bright, white light can be harsh; soft, warm lighting imparts a cozy feel but may not be the best for taskwork.

Creating the Right Home for Yourself

These 4 don’ts guarantees a stylish and designer-approved redecoration of your home. But remember that your decor needs to fit your lifestyle and not just your fashion aspirations. If you have active children or pets, take their habits and needs into account, and choose fabrics and surfaces that will accommodate their use. A good eye, a simple palette, and some common sense go a long way in designing a modern home, whether you plan on living there for the rest of your life or until you sell.

Hot tubs have been a staple luxury item for many years, whether used for a fun entertainment showpiece in your backyard, or a place to unwind at your cottage, ski chalet or vacation resort.

But thanks to technology advancements, hot tubs now offer a more enhanced experience than simply soaking in warm, bubbly water.

No longer are home spas one-dimensional – they’re multi-use items that offer a variety of benefits, not to mention unique and innovative components. Hot tubs now include a wide-range of features that not only improve convenience and visual appeal, but also provide a greater advantage to users, effectively reinventing the definition of home-spa luxury.

Today, there are a number of trend-setting features that outdoor spa companies are implementing in their designs to bridge the gap between luxury and functionality. Among those features, here are some of the latest hot tub trends.

Swim Spas

Don’t have the space for a full-size pool? Swim spas offer a perfect solution, providing a hot-tub/pool hybrid that allows users to swim and soak year-round. Also called all-weather pools, swim spas offer the same features as a typical hot tub, but are two to three-times the size. You can fit more people into the hot tub, while also using it for lap swimming with its built-in counter current jets or tether poles. Some swim spa models also have options for backlit swim up bars, bringing a resort-style feature to your own backyard.

Computerized Water Treatment

Relaxing in your hot tub is as luxurious as it gets. What’s not is spending your spare time treating the water. But thanks to new technology, including built-in chlorine generators and automated testing and dosing, water treatment is now worry-free. With automated water treatment, the hot tub effectively cleans itself, while real-time water quality measurements can be accessed by the touch of a finger through any web-connected device, including smartphones, tablets and laptops. This allows the user to control and monitor their water quality even when they’re not at home. It’s like your hot tub has its own personal assistant.

Home Therapy

While swimming and soaking have always been associated with physical therapy, there are a number of new features that are taking home water therapy to a whole new level. Colour therapy – otherwise known as Chromatherapy – is made possible through built-in coloured lighting that changes the look of the water, which is said to help tranquilize and revitalize the body. Water massage – or Hydrotherapy – uses built-in jets capable of improving circulation, decreasing joint pain and speeding up the healing process. Another growing therapy trend is aromatherapy, which combines the use of soothing scents with the soaking experience to loosen up the body and relieve stress.

Luxury Lighting

With the improvement of LED lighting, you can incorporate brilliant lighting displays – some that even replicate the Aurora Borealis – into your hot tub to add to the ‘wow factor’ in your outdoor space. With a host of lighting colours and schemes available to suit any occasion or theme, along with lights that illuminate drink holders and other features, your hot tub atmosphere can quickly change from bland to exciting.

Energy Reduction

Imagine being able to live in luxury, but save money and help the environment at the same time? New energy-efficient hot tubs can turn that into a reality. Built-in power consumption monitoring and self-diagnostic controls are just two features that are commonly integrated into new hot tubs, assisting the owner in calculating energy usage as well as monitoring and adjusting temperature levels. As environmental consciousness is at the forefront now more than ever, it’s also become an important trend in hot tub design.

Bathrooms have become the at-home destination for serene escape, the place that allows you to energize or unwind – a spa sanctuary, if you will. Core characteristics of luxury quarters have traditionally been ample space, complimentary light and rich materials; however, these days, technologically advanced bathroom essentials are the game changers shaking up the industry. Skylights and window walls aren’t the only way to let in the light. Chroma-therapy bathtubs illuminate and set the mood depending on the desired effect. For example, Bain Ultra’s ThermaSens tub offers built-in chroma-therapy lighting in addition to two other therapies – aromatherapy and thermotherapy, which are also seamlessly included within the tub design.

Dornbracht, high-end German kitchen and bath fixture manufacturer, has a shower system– one that’s conventional and Vertical, but also uniquely a Horizontal Shower — both providing similar therapies. Designed with the company’s advanced ATT technology, they are both equipped with pre-choreographed shower scenarios designed to energize, balance and de-stress at just the push of a button. The sequence of changing pressures and temperatures were created in partnership with Rene Pier, a renowned architect and spa design specialist. The Horizontal Shower is inspired by the Vichy units found at über-deluxe European spas and resorts, and it allows users to recline for ultimate relaxation. Starting price for Vertical Shower is $35,000 and $45,000 for Horizontal Shower.

Techy toilets are no longer taboo; an easy upgrade without having to replace your entire throne is Duravit’s Starck 3 SensoWash Toilet Seat – a power activated lid and seat which operates via a remote control and also includes a night light. An oscillating wash function that can be set for two individually programmable user profiles, makes self-cleaning easy peasy. Price starts at $1,895.

Investing in new age basics is imperative for the ultimate oasis, but design is also in the details, and to round out the space, finishing touches are key.  In fashion, rose gold accessories are trending, so why not bedazzle your bathroom with this distinctively rich look? Dornbracht has just introduced an 18-carat rose gold finish called Cyprum – a lustrous hue that casts a reflective glow creating a warming ambiance that is unmatched. It is a non-corrosive electroplated surface so you’ll never worry about rust.

Art-grade bronze that’s cast in an Idaho-based foundry using old world processes is what makes Rocky Mountain Hardware one of the most sought-after for door ware, cabinetry handles, lighting fixtures and other finishing touches. Again, it’s attention to details and use of the finest materials and finishes that help define and create an opulent setting. Don’t let style points go down the drain! Drains typically follow a standard format and are overlooked in the design process. However, Infinity Drain offers seamless drain integrations into any bathroom design. For unique patterns or drains that are virtually invisible, the options are endless.

Lastly, don’t forget to turn up the heat. There is no better antidote for goose bumps and chills when a hot shower comes to an end than a towel warmer. Hydroponic or electric systems are available in an array of sizes to adapt to all home or building utilities. Not only can they generate additional space heating, towel warmers provide dry heat, so say goodbye to the damp towel smell that often develops over time.  The Myson collection includes a variety of finishes including chrome, nickel, satin nickel, regal brass, white and oil-rubbed bronze and carry a five-year warranty.

All products and brands mentioned above can be found at Ferguson showrooms nationwide.

Setting the president, Bellerby & Co is the finest example of the globe-making art today. Each globe is a hand crafted masterpiece, which boasts exquisite beauty in both form and function. Produced in an artisan studio in London, by a highly skilled team of craftsmen. Individually unique and of a supreme quality, the globes undergo numerous intricate processes, featuring lavish attention to detail. Both a stylish and impressive object that would stand proud and befitting in the home and office.

The stunning contemporary classic style of the globes can be a complimentary addition into any lifestyle and environment, whether at work in the office or on the desk, at home in the library or drawing room or, onboard a boat. They look perfectly at home in grand stately houses as they do in loft apartments, penthouse suites and at the office, thanks to our highly skilled team who can create a bespoke globe to your exact requirements or desires. Previous commissioned work include established artists, an exhibition for the Royal Geographical Society and a celebrity client list. Not forgetting the “Egg Globe”, which was created especially for the Fabergé Egg hunt in New York that pushed the boundaries of traditional globe making further than before.

Set upon the timeless fonts and lines, each globe is hand painted with the finest water-colour pigments, and finished with a high quality varnish to make every one a long lasting cherished piece. Providing a strong and reliable core and continuing the high exacting standards incurred throughout the whole production, Bellerby and Co uses Formula 1 fabricators to build the molds, upon where the maps are placed.

Search the world over with ease with our multidirectional, fluid,unrestricted revolving globes. The globes are available in traditional wooden mounts with foundry cast brass meridians or flat bases. A choice of the finest quality hand turned american walnut wood and cast metal is used for the bases, giving each globe an impressive platform. Evoking admiration through size, quality and skill, an exquisite showcase of models range from desk globes, to larger free-standing 80cm globes and the life-size Churchill.

With the stylish desk globe, have the world at your hands. A smaller contemporary piece which would beautifully adorn your workspace or bedroom. Hours of enjoyment can be had with our multi-directional roller bearings fitted to the base of your choice in the finest quality wood or metal. Produced in limited numbers, each are have their own copper plaque denoting the edition and number and space for a personalised message. Presented in its own luxury carry case, this is a perfect gift to show someone they mean the world to you.

The classic collection pays homage to the archetypal globe and is the perfect fusion of modern techniques and the traditional fine art of globe-making. Each of the free-standing globes are supported by a beautiful oak or mahogany base, featuring horizon rings and completed with an aged-brass foundry-cast meridian. The collection includes the antique-looking Perano, which features a demographic and political map.

Our limited edition collection, The 80s Series, are made to order luxury globes. The majestic globe rests upon an innovative metre-high streamline stand, designed in collaboration with heritage technicians from Aston Martin.

A sign of empowerment and friendship, ‘The Churchill’ is the largest of the models available and was inspired by the 50inch globes given to both Churchill and Roosevelt during a profoundly difficult period in the WW2, to signify their great alliance. It is a generous 125cm in diameter, with a scale of the map1:10000000miles. It showcases a tremendous amount of detail, where you can really appreciate and discover the coastlines, terrains over the curvature of the earth, highlighting the earth’s true expanse. Not only the size but the grandiose beauty makes this a stand-out piece which welcomes attention. It can not help but be studied and adored.

Not only are these beautiful pieces of art and craftsmanship but, a historical document capturing a moment in time, that are to be used, enjoyed and treasured. For the travel lover, take a spin to plan your next destination or adventure. An expression of love, a timeless object that can arouse nostalgia and can be a sentimental precious keep-sake or gift. Made to order, each one is unique.

For more information visit www.bellerbyandco.com

 

Note: All items shown above and below are available from Amazon.
For details and pricing click on the image.

One of my favorite new trends is watercolor prints. They look like they’ve been painted on the fabric and add a sense of artistry to a space that I absolutely adore.

Watercolor prints are seen in everything from high fashion, accessories, to home fashion.

When used in fashion, watercolor patterns have a fresh, young and feminine feel. No wonder Hollywood A-listers are embracing this trend.

When used in bedding, throws and other home goods, watercolor prints provide an understated and soothing elegance, and add a chic effortless feel. Bold, graphic textiles can easily go from sophisticated to kitschy. Balance their bright colors and soft lines with modern pieces to transform a space. Just be careful not to go overboard. As with all trends, use in moderation; a little goes a long way

If your style is modern or contemporary, try a watercolor patterned chair or pillows to add a bit of fluidity to soften up the hard lines of contemporary furnishings, and bring out a daring yet feminine sensibility in your space

Even if your style is traditional, a watercolor pattern used in an unexpected way brings in an element of fun, ease of use and comfort to a space.  Of course, you can use this trend in the more classic, familiar way…..a watercolor painting. Or bring out the design dare-devil in you by doing a bold and graphic wall treatment

Why not give this trend a try and give your space a warm, homey feel that will be absolutely elegant. What are your thoughts on the watercolor pattern trend? Leave me a comment.

Now go forth and decorate .

Be Inspired!