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Rattan Accent tables from Pottery Barn
A common phrase on design shows and in shelter magazines is "bringing the outside in".  Most of the time that refers to a nature inspired color palatte or the addition of plants and greenery to a setting.  But as more people start using their decks and yards as their summertime living rooms, companies have stepped up to introduce products that are suitable for both indoors and outdoors.  Here are a few great finds.
 
 
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One question I get asked on a pretty regular basis as a designer is what furniture I would buy if money were no object.  I'm someone who has the inside scoop about what's available, right?  Well, for years my answer has been the same: Baker.  It's elegant, it's classic and beautifully made.  I'm buying a house full of it right after I win the Lotto--because all that quality and beauty ain't cheap.  But for the second year, I've seen an exhibit at the AD Home Show that has made me reconsider.  The New Traditionalists has some of the sexiest furniture I've seen in a long time.
 
 
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Night and Day Sleep Sofa $588
I'm always on the lookout for inexpensive and stylish furniture sources.  I had read on some design blogs about the furnishings sold by Urban Outfitters with more than a few reservations.  I can't even go into the store without feeling old--probably because everyone who works there calls me M'am.  Those of us looking for furniture for "the grown and sexy" would normally stick to (big) sister store Anthropologie.  Imagine my surprise when I browsed online and found a really nice selection of sofas and tables--all at really reasonable prices.
 
 
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I received a question the other day from a reader who needs to purchase new bedroom furniture.  Like most of us, she has a limited budget, but wanted to get something sturdy for her very large wardrobe.  She's ready to upgrade from Ikea and really wants solid wood.  One last caveat, she'd like to see the pieces in person before buying.  Here's my advice:
 
 
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So I've been on this kick to get the apartment in shape and looking good.  For  months I've been browsing on craigslist to find pieces to suit the new apartment and my lifestyle.  I have finally pulled the trigger on a few pieces (still gloating) and just this week found an adorable coffee table.  I was so excited when I saw the ad.  32" wood round table with clean lines and a somewhat indecipherable style.  Shelter magazines use the word "transitional' a lot, but this table really could transition to a bunch of different looks.  Plus, at $60 it was sweet deal.
 
Allow me to brag 01/20/2010
 
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I am the proud new owner of this lovely Mid-Century Modern buffet and china.  I was doing my regular Craigslist browse and when I saw this piece for under $200, I pounced.  I'm guessing they just really want to get rid of it because they probably could have gotten double the asking price.  Seriously, the credenzas alone are rarely under $300-$400.  By the way, the owner followed my Craigslist posting rules, which made my decision much easier.  And I showed up at the agreed time with a deposit, which I'm sure made her life easier.

I am now faced with the dilemma of exactly how to use this piece.  The plan was originally to buy a credenza with storage for clothing and have the TV on top.  And since the buffet and china do separate, I can proceed as planned.  But at just shy of 6' tall, it's an excellent height for my tiny apartment.  Plus, it just looks really good just the way it is. 
 
 
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This room setting was originally in a showhouse on Long Island.  There were 2 of each chair instead of one, square end tables and 4 large leather ottomans grouped together as the coffee table.  Obviously that would be way too much furniture for this space.  Working with the sofa and one of each chair, I added appropriately sized items to finish off the room. 
 
 
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I wrote the other day about using color to reinforce a focal point within a room.  But that much color is not for everyone.  There's a reason why tan, off white and beige are the most popular colors for paint and upholstery--people like them (or are afraid of the alternative).  There are a few tricks to making a neutral room work. 
 
 
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Leaning shelf, $89 each
Millions of marketing dollars are spent every year by companies in an attempt to rebrand themselves into a source for desireable products.  Once a company has achieved a reputation as boring, old fashioned or just plain ugly, it can be pretty tough to shake.  Another designer had mentioned a surprising resource she had used to get great window treatments for her clients.  Lots of options and really well priced.  I took a look online to see the drapery and was very pleasantly surprised by their other offerings, too.
 
 
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Problem: You live in a tiny apartment and don't invite friends over for meals because there's no space for a table.

Solution: The Packet Table from Pure Design.
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Is it the most comfortable seating?  No, but it doesn't pretend to be.  This isn't meant for a fine dining experience.  It's able to go from 25"x25" footprint to up to tabletop surface for 4 (43"x43").  It would be terrific as an end table, laptop table or for eating.  You have a choice of white, charcoal or orange for both the table and chairs.  So cute.