Served Up In Style

A few months after I first moved to Nelson, I was invited to an "alter-ego" party where you were meant to dress up the part. Not knowing anyone in town yet and knowing these people to be theatrical, I figured that I should dress as a German dominatrix. I ended up getting quite friendly with a German. He was dressed as a woman. Where am I going with this? Well, pottery of course! This nice fellow invited me to his place a few days later to "cook a big fish." He didn't strike me as the domestic type, (he was over six feet tall and wearing a rather bright orange dress that was a few sizes too small when we met so forgive me for not getting a clear picture,) so imagine my delight when presented with the most stunning salmon dish served with organic greens and roasted walnuts over some sort of divine cheese concoction. My favorite part of the meal however was what he served it on. His roomate was a potter and the entire meal was served in the most unbelievable pottery. Each dish was completely different and even the salt and pepper shakers were beautiful works of art. The food would have been delicious regardless, but there was something about eating off of handmade, one of a kind earthenware that made the dinner an experience.

I have a penchant for sets of dishes, but it is my goal to collect dishes that go far beyond normal plates and bowls. I have completed my trove of pink depression glass and I would like to compile a collection that is more artistic now. These fit the bill. Organic, textured, a beautiful balance of colour and sophisticated greys. A natural but artistic look of high quality. All from the beautiful etsy studio of Lois Aronow from Brooklyn, New York. (I love that her influences include Antoni Gaudi.) Lovely.

Not that I am in the market for more stuff to fill my apartment with, (I am still working on the editing concept, I am not winning) but I was browsing Etsy and came across these little jewels from fine furniture crafter Michael Arras. 

I love the unique yet simple play of circles in the tables and the lovely curves of the chair frames. Beautiful pieces like this are as much about style and display of personal taste as any painting or other work of art. We sometimes think that to add a sense of individuality we are limited to framing pieces for the wall or perhaps stretching as far as an interesting vase. 

If you think of your room as a way to showcase one or two really unique pieces of furniture however, then your statement flows throughout the room adding layers of interest, not just pushing the conversation pieces to the perimeter of the space. The intimacy of a space comes from allowing the personality to shine through in details such as the ones here. Next to the simple lines of a linen upholstered tuxedo sofa, the table would act as an accessory the way a scarf or hat completes that sassy and sophisticated Chanel suit. A touch of whimsy to make a classic your own. 

Getting Started Early...

Some of my new favorite things from Cox & Cox. I am not much of a shopper, truth be told. I do love buying gifts for people though... especially unique, beautiful and ingenious ones. I have a teensy Martha streak (although I am loathe to admit it). I am NOT the domestic goddess type, but it's OK, they have an apron in this shop especially for me so I can make some snowflake cookies. I DO love to present things beautifully, and the collection of ribbons, stamps and such has me mentally wrapping gifts as I go! Do take a gander at their website, it is so beautifully presented and so many more interesting goodies than what I have here. Very well priced as well if you are used to purchasing from across the water. 

Cute, cute, cute!

I know there has been some major cuteness on the market for the last couple of years, and to be quite honest, cute is rarely my thing. I can appreciate the appeal, but I just haven't really found my place in the cute scene. However, this morning I found some definite CUTE that I just have to share, on (where else?) Etsy.

I think Jamtart Baby is really on to something here. She has a wonderful sense of whimsy and a flair that almost tells a whole story with just one simple illustration.

I love her use of colour and white space and the way you can get a piece of art for your wall to go with a pillow. Genius. Her tagline reads "Sweet things for the modern baby..." which is definitely true, but I can see her pillows and prints in any fun space. Or any "too modern" space needing a hit of fun for that matter! There are definitely a few too many "serious" modern living and bedrooms out there. Let's throw some happy at them people!

Spark Tart

On to metal...

One of our local design divas wields a mean blowtorch, taking the current popularity of metalics to a whole new level! Maintenance welder turned furniture fabricator, Kate Tupper sheds a new light (a really freakin' hot one) on the design industry with her indoor/outdoor one of a kind pieces. From a chaise to a wingback, she uses both new and found bits and bolts to create a modern take on classic shapes for a signature piece that is as sculptural as it is functional (although you might look into a lovely cushion or two as well).

Look here at Spark Tart for more...

Thos. Moser

I have the feeling this is one of those things that everyone knew about but me.

I am totally thrown buy how stunning the pieces from this 36 year old company are. Each piece is grain matched and hand carved. I grew up with a woodworker in the family and have a real appreciation for both wood as a medium and wood as a pure natural entity and I absolutely fawn over quality pieces that really utilize both to create a beautiful functional piece. Just exquisite.

All photos from Thos. Moser.