Slamp-alicious

There is really something to those three little powerful words that rings true: Made in Italy.  For Italian standards Slamp isn't a very old company (since 1994), yet it follows the 'old way' and mind set of a true artisian, with each lamp assembled by hand, while likewise enduring a high quality control.  It's no wonder that one of Slamp's most memorable collections was named "Atelier".  While writing this post I noted that all the good adjectives were already utilized by the Slamp press releases, so I'm taking a nod from their repertoire.  

Adaptable.  Flowing.  Sexy.  Innovative.  Accessible.  Cheeky.  Reliable.  Witty.  Diaphanous.  Aspirational.  Original.  Cultural.  Resourceful.  Experimental.  Playful.  Contemporary.  

Along with using the best possible materials, from the gorgeous Italian leathers to Swarovski crystals, Slamp is truly an innovation as it has developed four patented materials: Opalflex, Cristalflex, Steelflex and Lentiflex.  And so, after oohing and awing over the likes of  Veli and Mille Bolle, my new adjective is simply Slamp-alicious.

For more information/ specifications.

Pink Swan Project

Some of my favorite designers, including Missoni and Victoria Hagan, are seeing pink for a good cause.  The 2nd annual Pink Swan Project has again been launched by SUITE New York-- the focus of design is Arnie Jacobsen's iconic Swan chair.  Nineteen of the world's most fabulous designers will outfit their own unique rendition of the Swan, which will be auctioned off to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.  D.B. Kim of PYR for Swarovski has one of the most elegant designs.  He explains, "My design inspirations are from the patterns of healing power: radiating lines and beautiful rays from the Swarovski crystals. The sensual and organic form of the Swan chair transforms as a perfect canvas for the pattern and crystals."

For further information on the Pink Swan Project: http://suiteny.com/designers/featured.php

An Ode to Oia

From my first step onto the warn tiled floor I felt as if I had stepped back into Fez-- maybe that's why I was drawn into the kasbah-esque café in Oia.  Tiny, yet bustling with personality from floor to barrel-vaulted ceiling, it was alive with style.  Always drawn to design that unites the old with the new, I was taken aback by the cobwebbed silver candle stick holder, as it felt almost a cliché-- too good to be true. And yet the freshness of the walls, again the Grecian blue, created a justness, while the accents of the sun, or rather sunset, were mimicked in warm yellows/ oranges, framing the portals.  Irregular shaped hand blown glass orbs hung about the space, while the low-backed banquette maintained a welcoming feel as did the white marble café tables hosting the most perfect cold cappuccino.  

 

 

 

Feeling Blue Bleu

It's been less than a week since I left the romantic island of Santorini, yet my thoughts linger.  From the Aegean Sea to the mosaic tiled pools to the hundredth church cupola, the Grecian blue dominates the land.  The juxtaposition of blue against the famous white architecture is striking, yet fitting.  The family run hotel that I called home for the week was the Imerovigli Palace.  The design was very simple, both inside and out; various shades of the blue were used like artwork on the doors, windows and frames against a white backdrop of pressed linens or freshly painted walls.  

As I sit here, the view from my Rome balcony quite differs-- looking towards the horizon there is no trace of the Aegean-- feeling a bit blue... But inspired!  

The Hard Edge

They may not look too inviting from a comfort stance, but these chairs, voguish in cafés, forever tend to catch my eye.  The hardness always seems to be softened when positioned in the garden-- it's a juxtaposition that tends to render an extraordinary setting, intimate and alluring.  Angelina, near the Fontana di Trevi in Rome, has fantastic flip down benches both in and outside of the bar, while the restaurant's Xavier Pauchard seats go more designerly around the white dressed tables.  Trattoria de Gli Amici in Trastevere also sets a serene surrounding with the wire style iron chairs-- hard edged, yet perfect to perch.   

Pillow Talk

I've talked before about the ever changing home of an interior designer... So, today let's have a little pillow talk.  First of all, I don't like to go overboard with these little round, square or cylindrical accents, but a few on the sofa or bed can be just the right touch.  And it is so easy to make a perfectly unique throw pillow with a few yards of gorgeous fabric, even two types for a reversible surprise.  Or, insert a zipper so you can swap patterns and colors in and out to your hearts desire.  If you like neutrals, it's an easy way to create a rotation of pillows throughout the home-- When the urge to change hits, just flip over the pillow or unzip.

In the Navy!

It was love at first sight.  And I continue to be enamored each time I see a 1006 Navy Chair.  Thing is, it can rest alone like a solitary soldier standing guard or it can just as easily fit into the design of an avangard hotel or showroom.  And paying homage again to my U.S. city, Atlanta— Emeco has teamed up with Coca-Cola to design an even more eco-friendly version of the Navy, creating the 111 Navy.  In one chair you are sitting on 111 recycled Coke bottles— a positively refreshing thought.  Previously troubled by fitting Emeco’s classic Navy into the budget, the 111 lists for $245.  And the colors definitely pop (pun intended)!  

 For more information visit www.emecowithcoke.com