How about a little Fallingwater to cool off?

I think everyone is familiar with Frank Lloyd Wright, the architect, and the house he designed in Pennsylvania called "Fallingwater". Maybe it's this extremely hot weather that had me watching this video again today---something about the place is cooling. It's definitely on the list of places to visit (some people call that the bucket list).

Take a break and enjoy the video. Bet you watch it more than just once! I liked the music so much I added The Moldau to my iTunes!

Oh yeah, see you next Saturday morning during the Sidewalk Sale.

Our Billboard and Candice Olson

Yes, you are right---Candice Olson is not on the billboard, but we did mention her. Seems if you want to use her "likeness" you have to have your people contact her people, and that just takes time. We are told that she would most likely be fine with that, but we had some other ideas.

If you read the blog very often, you know we carry Norwalk Furniture. We have already sold some of Candice's own designs. Even though the regular line of Norwalk furniture is great looking, it is fun to be able to offer some furniture with a little different "spin". When you get a chance, scroll through her furniture designs on the Norwalk website.

Another vendor offering Candice's "spin" is Surya. Just go to their website and search for rugs under her name. If you're familiar with her look, you'll be nodding your head as soon as they come up on the screen.


Here's one of them from the Atlanta Market. We were interested in matching a fabric on that day, and we very intrigued with this particular rug. Surya also has several sculptured styles in a variety of colors, designed for them by Candice. They would be great for those of you who just don't need more colors brought into your room, and the sculpted design keeps the rug from looking boring.

And the other company we have featured on the billboard is Paragon. We have bought wall art from Paragon in the past, and while we don't currently have Candice's hanging in the shop, we are able to order from their catalog. We have always been impressed with Paragon's quality. Here's a quote from Candice from their website:

Art is a design element that is essential for the expression of your own unique style. It creates personality and character in a room; sets a mood or ambiance; adds color and interest; and can transform an ordinary room into an extra-ordinary room. My art and wall décor collection is defined by inspiring imagery, distinctive materials and the effects created by light on surfaces and finishes. Modern techniques and traditional motifs merge to create a collection you and your family will enjoy for years to come..” -Candice Olson 2007.

Summer splurges and gift giving ideas

I wouldn't call our new jewelry a big splurge, the prices are good and the look is fun and bright. Each piece is handmade by Elly, in her home in Connecticut. Her company is called "The Purple Door". You can see more of her jewelry on her website.


Here's another one of Elly's creations---it caught our eye immediately. The chain is actually wrapped ribbon.


You'll find a nice selection of jewelry from "The Purple Door" at Madison Lane Interiors. We will be receiving even more jewelry lines, all made in the USA! We really like buying from the women entrepreneurs we meet at market! We hope you'll want to support them, as well.


If you need a wedding gift this summer, we have a couple of ideas. This new glass bowl is such a unique shape that you can be sure your gift won't be duplicated.


If you're buying a gift for the person who loves the outdoors, these oil lamps and holder would be a beautiful addition to a patio or along the walk to the front door.


And don't forget you'll need a heavy duty bag to take with you on your summer vacation. These tote bags from Dash and Albert are made from their cotton rugs and are big enough to hold everything you need, but soft enough to fold over when they aren't quite as full. We have several in stock, or choose one from the catalog---they ship within a week and are here before you know it.

Whether you're buying a wedding or housewarming gift, or something for yourself, come in and check out our summer splurges.

Bright Colors and a Touch of Contemporary, Thanks to Global Views

One of the more popular showrooms at market is the Global Views showroom. They are always showing the latest colors in a bold, and big way. And although we may think their look is all contemporary, it does blend with more traditional decor. Their glassware and ceramic vases are just beautiful, and have enough color to them to really add some punch to your decorating.





The color featured was primarily the turquoise, but the addition of orange was a fun surprise. You can see by the shelves in the above picture that their showroom is loaded with their colorful inventory. Each area is color coordinated---so around the next corner you may find all black and white.


Of course the headboard is not "your typical headboard", but the coverlet is. How easy it is to change the whole look by adding some bright, new pillows. We do have some similar to the green ones coming from another vendor!


Now, let me brag about our rep, Tom. He walked through the showroom with us, several times, pointing out the best price points. He also served us lunch, on Friday and Saturday, and it was delicious. Seems the owner of the showroom owned a catering business and still likes to share his great cooking and recipes. Click here for a list of his recipes.

Hope you like the cool green vases/candle holders in the above picture. We've got a lot of ideas for their use, with Christmas decorating at the top of the list.




One more item we purchased is this set of storage boxes. The tallest is 24" tall, and both would make great side tables. Perfect for putting away those throws you have laying around, or maybe all those magazines you can't seem to let go!

Thanks to the Global Views showroom and their great hospitality, and especially to Tom, for all his help!