Interior Design Industry Insider

Black is finally at the forefront of decorating fashion. I’m talking about a new feminine glamorous vibe with black as a major dramatic character. Not the weird 1990’s all black. These photos were snapped in High Point during market. Notice the black walls are balanced by other strong elements. The table and headboard stand up to the black on their own. The metallic gold and silver accents help avoid the black hole effect and the dark brown woods add warmth. […]

Best in Show for Spring 2015 High Point Market goes to the Taracea showroom in the historic eight-story Radio Building that has been at the heart of High Point’s business since 1923. The former ground floor bank sets an interesting Art Deco background for the Taracea furniture made of solid woods harvested from trees in forests they own and manage. Taracea rightfully boasts about the artistic craftsmanship coming from their upholstery factory and hand-forged iron foundry. The original bank vault […]

I’m in love with the Log and Lucite home furnishing trend! The natural wood and modern plastic combine to create a beautiful mix of warm and cool elements. This Ambrosia side chair has a colorful printed hide cushion that adds more warmth, texture, and intrigue. For the second year in a row, Bea’s showroom has caught my eye. She has greeted me with a smile and shared her new designs. That’s why my choice for “Best in Show” at the […]

My thanks goes out to Barclay Butera for spending time with me after he spoke to a group of interior designers in Raleigh, NC. This quintessential all-American designer has been on my radar since the late 90’s when I noticed we had many things in common.  Known for his unique yet assertive taste, he stands by his mantra: “In interior design there are no rules.” His style is influenced by traditional American, European, and Far East influences. He is inspired […]

This French inspired bedroom is full of old-world glamour. It captures the essence of days gone by and reinterprets it for the twenty-first century. The furniture pieces are classic. For a traditional flare, they would look amazing draped in colorful Pierre Frey toile fabric. But it’s the neutral color palette that gives this room a fresh look styled for today’s living. Designed by Eloquence this bedroom is my choice for “Best in Show” at the Spring 2014 High Point Market. […]

This living room in Shenzhen, China has modern sofas that contrast the classic Chinese fretwork. Accentuated by the use of light and dark colors, the furnishings seem somewhat understated compared to the commanding views. The sofa designer, Kelvin Giormani, lives in Hong Kong and manages the daily operations of his family’s manufacturing business. I enjoyed reminiscing with him in High Point. The modern desk below reminds me of classic Coco Chanel with its captivating curves, wonderful warm wood, and golden […]

“Decorating is about making memories,” claimed Carleton Varney. “What is your first memory? Can you remember where you were and what the place looked like?”  “Yes, I can remember,” I replied, “As a 2-year-old, I was in the hospital having my tonsils out!”  After the laughter subsided he encouraged me to pick a different and more pleasant memory. How exactly am I supposed to reboot my old brain with a “new” first memory? And how exactly does decorating make memories? […]

This is not your Grandmother’s Queen Anne coffee table! Bless her heart. Take a look at this cool one introduced by the Phillips Collection Showroom. Their “Split the Difference” coffee table caught my eye as “Best in Show” at the Fall 2012 High Point Furniture Market With its striking combination of unexpected materials, this coffee table is a conversation piece. Looking like a still reflecting pool the flat top is crafted with hand-cut stainless steel in a chrome finish. It […]