Something's Gotta Give

I've been thinking a lot lately about Spring- since we'll be putting together a spring line for introduction in June and July. As each season or project commences every designer faces the same question- what to do next? Much as the writer faces off with the blank page we designers square off against a blank drawing board, last season's successes and failures. This year I've been revisiting images from the recent past and asking myself what's pretty now- am I completely out of the loop because I don't like much of the recent Mid-Century revival? As I peruse my archives and old magazines I find that I'm always drawn back to the simple basics; painted woodwork, wing back chairs, linen upholstery, wicker and basketry. A beautiful and timeless example of how some of these elements coalesce into a comfortable haven are the interiors from the film "Something's Gotta Give".

These absolutely timeless rooms from the set of Somethings Gotta Give are attributed to Interior Designer James Radin (check out his portfolio at http://www.jamesradin.com/ ) the homey style is reminiscent of another great designer Michael Smith (recently commissioned by Michele Obama to redecorate the first family's private residence at The White House ) you can see his work and products at http://www.michaelsmithinc.com/

a recent Michael Smith interior

love the asian influence in the lanterns

Another timeless designer whose work has had a big influence on me is Rose Tarlow. I recently found this old photograph of her California home. I'm still as charmed by it today as the first time I saw it many years ago. The bookcases are perfectly proportioned to house interesting collections and the stray Boston ivy creeping into the room is a masterful, eccentric, and romantic touch.

So what do these wonderful designers have to do with my thoughts for Abode's spring collection for 2011? They remind me of the core values that I always go back to and reassure me that timeless design is best; warm neutral palettes, natural fibers and textures, simple forms that are at once antique and modern, and above all comfort and charm that speaks of a home well tended. I'm getting inspired.

High Points at High Point

We're pleased to be having a great turn out at the High Point market. Business has been brisk at our newly enlarged and prominant space at Southern Accessories Today. Thank you to Steve for all the support and belief in Abode and his fantastic (and eye catching) sales team at SAT. We appreciate it.

Please come visit us at SAT in Atlanta for the January show. We're expanding the line and we're excited to show off our wares.

Southern Accessories Today
Americas Mart Building 1
240 Peachtree St, Suite 12-A-12
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
T- 877-867-4709
F- 404-525-4090

More Fall Colors

Lilac roses paired with autumnal grass create an unusual fall tableau. We group two arrangements rather than mixing flowers in a single vase. It makes for a more focused presentation.

Who Says Fall Color Has To Be Orange

It's that time of year again; leaves are falling, the weather is cooling off, and the hearth is begging for some attention. While other folks are pillaging piles of orange pumpkins and bundles of flaming bittersweet at the local market, Liz and I are looking for fall color in other less ordinary shades. We found these beautiful Hydrangea blooms that are fading from green to robin's egg blue and paired them with several bundles of eryngium that capture the same hues. The bouquet on our living room coffee table still says Fall, but in a less cliche way.