The London Bridge Meets The Shard!

Came across a cool blog from 2modern about the London Bridge Quarter development. The Shard, a 72-story mixed-use skyscraper, will be the centerpiece for the project. The Shard will include residential, hospitality, office, and retail components. Once completed, it'll be the tallest building in Western Europe. Check out some renderings of The Shard and the London skyline.

The Shard might give the London Bridge and the London Eye a run for their money as London's most recognizable symbols.

The Shard will be 1004 feet tall upon completion. In city where most everything is in the 4-10 story scale, The Shard will be quite a site to behold.


Very few cities look as beautiful as London at night.

The Shard is being designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Quite the name for an architecture firm, who just happened to design the Menil Collection Museum in Houston.

These panoramic views of London never get old! Simply breathtaking.

With as much precipitation as London gets, these massive, clear glass canopies offer rain protection, yet preserve maximum sunlight for pedestrians.

5,070 Trees and Counting...

Photo by: angela7dreams

Thanks to all our customers for joining High Fashion Home and the Arbor Day Foundation for helping plant 5,070 trees. I'm trying to envision 5,070 trees, and I'm picturing a nice, medium size forest. But really, any little thing we can do for the environment is a definite plus.

Here are some of the benefits one tree can make for years to come:

• One tree can absorb more than a ton of carbon dioxide
• Over the cours of 50 years, a single tree can control $31,500 of soil erosion.
• Trees help maintain clean water supplies.
• One tree produces nearly 260 pounds of oxygen a year.
• Trees help maintain clean water supplies.

My math says our trees will help produce 1,318,000 pounds of oxygen in the next year. Not bad at all.

Baby, It's Hot Outside

There is nothing worse than coming in from the 100 degree heat just to get into a hot bed. You wouldn't wear a coat in July, so why should your bed? I adhere to the idea of using the hot months as a chance to change up my bedroom a little bit and just use sheets. Okay, and maybe a light blanket, because that air conditioning can get drafty. When I use my patterned comforter, I stick to basic white sheets, but when the duvet is a away, the sheets can play (or something like that). Here are the ones I have my eye on:

Rubie Green's East Village Sheet Set, $179-229

Crate & Barrel's Tallulah Sheet Set, $45-$80

West Elm's Printed Percale Sheet Set, $79-119

Dwell Studio's Draper Stripe Sheet Set, $286-$341

Plover Organic's Drowsy Vine Sheet Set, $228-$269 at Anthropologie

Earth Day 2009: More Trees!

Thanks to everyone for helping partner with High Fashion Home and the Arbor Day Foundation. As of March 31st, 2009, we have now planted 3,554 trees. For every piece of furniture purchased, one tree is planted. 3,554 trees may seem a lot or it may seem a little. Either way, we appreciate everyone with helping us make a difference. Addressing our global climate change is bigger than any one person or organization. It's going to take all of us to pitch in and contribute.


The benefits of one tree can make a positive impact for years to come:

• One tree can absorb more than a ton of carbon dioxide
• Over the course of 50 years, a single tree can control $31,500 of soil erosion.
• Trees help maintain clean water supplies.
• One tree produces nearly 260 pounds of oxygen a year.

Learn more about how you can help.

Earth Day 2009: Leonardo DiCaprio Visits The Green House.

Check out this video from Oprah. Leonard DiCaprio visits a model home for sustainability. DiCaprio is one of Hollywood's most prominent figures in the fight against global warming. Every detail in the home is built with an eye for a safer environment and with the world's future in mind. Learn how you might be able incorporate some eco-friendly elements into your own home.

Earth Day: How To Go Green

Have you started wondering what lifestyle choices you can make to help out the environment? Check out Planet Green's How to Go Green index. So if you were curious about green laundry detergent alternatives or some green decorating tips for your home, their guide will cover A-Z how to make meaningful green changes to every part of your life.

Earth Day 2009: Anthropologie Green Displays!

Courtesy of Apartment Therapy, check out these 4 green display ideas from Anthropologie.

These bulbs might not be energy efficient. Instead of throwing them a way after they burn out, you can reuse them to make for a super cool chandelier.

Why throw away your plastic forks and knives after that picnic? You make a ridiculously, textured wall paper.

Cut out old book covers and fabric to make wall art that would make the uncreative class jealous.

Recover bookshelves out of old fabric remnants.

Threadless: Buy a Tee, Plant a Tree!

Threadless is planting a tree for every t-shirt you buy this week. The donation goes to PlantABillion.org, who's mission is to plant a billion trees in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil.

Threadless is a great site that sells t-shirts that are designed by people like you and me. The ongoing design contest has visitors voting on their favorite designs. The most popular designs actually get made into shirts, with the winner receiving $2,000. So buy a cool t-shirt from a cutting edge company and feel good that you are helping out our planet.

ABC Carpet & Home. Where Amazing Happens!

ABC Home's mission statement revolves around an eco-friendly initiative. (photo courtesy of racked.com)

ABC Carpet & Home is a mega chic, home furnishings emporium located on Broadway in New York City. It's the largest rug and carpet store in the world, attracting 1 million visitors a year.

The company's array of products include not only carpets and rugs but also antiques, furniture, textiles, gifts and accessories, and bed and bath items. Because of its inventive displays and eclectic offerings, ABC has been called "Disneyland for rich adults." Visiting ABC is like sifting through a sea of charming, impeccable, eclectic furnishings. It's one part flea market, one part grandmother's attic, and one part Rodeo Drive.

You'll probably end up shopping and getting lost for hours. If you need a little halftime break, there is a cafe that sits at the back of the main floor. The menu consists of great organic food. I definitely recommend the hummus.

I usually end up visiting New York at least twice a year, and I always make it a point to visit. Here are some pictures I've collected of this amazing store. Feast your eyes on some home decor bliss.

How cool is that? Flowers covering the elevator on the first floor.

Looks like professional photography from Metropolitan Home. Not! It's just our Canon camera.

Store merchandising is always easier when you have a cool, old building with 25 foot high ceilings.

Love the chaise.

This is their Barbara Barry gallery on the 4th floor.

Yes, that is our Hugo sofa. I'm partial to our piece in white.

Towels! More Towels!

Cool, spontaneous vignette on a green platform.

Here is one of many eco-friendly furniture lines they carry. The sectional is from Cisco Brothers.

I can't afford most of the chandeliers, but I have to admit that they are pretty jaw dropping.

Some of their Asian-influenced pillows and accessories on the 1st floor.

Green Roofs in NYC: Inhabitat

The Next Big Architecture Trend...

We looked at doing a green roof for High Fashion Home. It's not in the budget currently, but it's definitely in the cards when our roof needs to be replaced. A green roof helps reduce maintenance and energy costs, provides sound insulation and amenity space, and improves air quality.

Ten Arquitectos is designing a mixed use project called Clinton Park, which will incorporate an elaborate green roof design. New York is an incredibly dense city, so any additional green space helps soften their urban grid. In case you never been to the NYC in the summer, it's pretty hot with all the concrete trapping the heat.

Check out the spectactular pictures courtesy of Inhabitat:

Every city is looking to add more green space.

The green roof adds a different dimension to the usual urban skyline.

The step down architectural feature adds to the drama.

Galleria Madness!

We set up shop at the Galleria a couple of weeks ago. Within our 400 square foot boundary, we set up vignettes to communicate the brand and essence of High Fashion Home. Here is our first attempt:

Our setup is between DeBeers and Christian Dior...Not too shabby.

The Houston Galleria is the 5th largest mall in the country.

Every man, woman, and child stops to look at the teak root coffee table.

The Angle Vases have been a huge hit.

The Victor Sectional kind of gives off a Mont Blanc vibe.

I'm betting $50 that she has some Starbucks coffee in her hands. This is my artistic photograph by the way.

The Laurel Dining Table has never looked better.

Don't let this picture fool you. The weekend traffic in the Galleria is bananas.

I average about 5 teas a day from the good folks at Teavana. Word on the street, ask them to do a recommended mix of tea flavors. I did it last Sunday, and it came out extra tasty.

The It List: Our Editor's Top Furniture Picks!

Our own Design Guru has spoken. We even created an entire area on our website for his favorite furniture pieces. Here are his exclusive top furniture picks:

The Suzanne Chair: This luxurious green leather chair is a sure fire, attention-getter. It sits like heaven and has looks that kill. It's $799 for a top grain leather chair!

The Cassini Cabinet: Black and White stripes are very hot right now. There is a Beatlejuice-esque coolness to this designer piece.

The Angelina Sofa: First off it's $899, which is a great price for this stylish, eco-friendly sofa. Tight seat, tight back sofas tend to be less than comfortable. But the Angelina is definitely the exception and not the rule.

The Donnabella Chest: This Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Art Deco inspired staple looks terrific in person. The great thing is that the piece is so versatile. You can use it as a night stand, place it in a hallway, or stick it in your living room. You can use it in traditional or transitional settings. It's got a cool, Hollywood glam vibe going for it.

The Shinto Office Armoire: It has been one of our best sellers since we opened the store 3 1/2 years ago. Made of solid walnut and using Chinese wood joinery techniques, this heirloom quality piece combines the best of form and function.

The Vivian Dining Table: Internally, we call this the Iron Man table. It's the desk that Robert Downey Jr. has in his office. All 47 of us loved the movie, and by default we love this table.

The Peking Dining Table: It's made out of reclaimed elm. This distressed dining table has a very nice, subtle turquoise base. It gives off a very comfortable vibe, yet it makes for a style statement.

The Melina Bed: It's a very simple, low bed with a tufted headboard. The bed can work in contemporary, traditional, or transitional settings. The linen-look fabric is actually 100% polyester. It makes for a very practical fabric cover, and it upholsters beautifully on the headboard.

The Selma Chair: The rich crewel fabric and nubuck leather sides will work beautifully in cottage and ranch style homes.

The Eileen Chair: The floral gray print makes the chair feel both feminine and masculine at the same time.

The Dexter Sofa: The cognac colored velvet looks so rich on this frame. The button back with the tuxedo arms gives off a very sophisticated and refined feel.

Silver Birch

Before I wrapped my Christmas gifts, I went on a mad search for wrapping paper printed with birch trees. Pottery Barn displayed gifts that way and it was so chic I had to have it! Alas, I didn't get my wish, but I have seen a ton of birch print since then. Maybe it's because I'm actually looking for it now. Yes, it's quite wintery and we are heading into Spring, but it's pretty nonetheless.

It's only fitting for a duvet printed with nature to be organic. Birch Tree Organic Duvet Cover & Sham at Pottery Barn.

Organic is sexy: Stella McCartney Pump.





You can't open a decorating magazine without seeing this wallpaper. Woods by Cole & Son.

Trees Make a World of Difference!

High Fashion Home has teamed up with the Arbor Day Foundation, to plant one tree for every piece of furniture purchased. Our first donation is in, and we'd like to thank all of our customers for helping to plant 2,197 trees. Our reforestation efforts are aimed at Western States that have been ravaged by forest fires in recent years. Let's keep making a difference one tree at a time!

Lingering extreme drought conditions have set the stage for wildfires in many western states, including Montana, Oregon and California.

7 Wild Materials You May Find in Future Products: Popular Mechanics

Popular Mechanics featured the top 7 Wildest, Brightest and Quirkiest Material inventions in 2008 as rated by Inventables, a Chicago-based firm. Initially there were only 10 available spots, but with the uniqueness and possible product applications of last year's nominees, it had no choice but to open 6 extra slots to incorporate all these mind blowing products. Here are 7 of these mind blowing products, enjoy.

Ceramic Cloth

Zircar Zirconia, Inc., a New York manufacturer of thermal products, created this cloth knit from ceramic fibers, which will insulate against extreme temperatures.

Electronic Paper

Electronic paper, a thin, flexible display technology that reveals digital images in full color, was invented by Israeli company Magink. Inventables imagines that the material could be used to create a portable “origami DVD player,” which would unfold to reveal a big screen.

Stone Paper

“Stone” paper, sold by Design & Source Productions, is made of calcium carbonate, making it more eco-friendly than wood-based paper.

Temperature Sensitive Glass Tiles

Glass tiles that change color in response to temperature were created by California-based Moving Color. They have already used the tiles to create a shower with walls that change color as the water hits them.

Anti-Fog Film

This durable antifog coating is the creation of Film Specialties in New Jersey. The coating’s hydrophilic properties means that water slides off the surface rather than turning to fog.

Translucent Concrete

A Hungarian architect invented these translucent concrete tiles that contain optical fibers, allowing light to pass through. They are now sold through his company Litracon Bt.

Flavor Changing Additives

Flavor-changing additives, developed by New Jersey–based Salvona Technologies, contain nanospheres encapsulated in larger microspheres. When the microspheres burst, one flavor is released. The rupture of the nanospheres, some time later, releases another flavor, creating a taste experience that changes over time.

Wrap Star

Perfect wrapping is a snap. Heidi offers everything you need in one package for your package. It's impossible to mess up! My favorite part is the ombre ribbon.

I know, I know... It's what's on the inside that counts, right? But nice wrapping never hurts either! Part of the fun of giving gifts is making the wrapping cool and artistic- a package that the receiver almost doesn't want to open because it's so pretty. It all starts with the right paper, and you can't go wrong with these:

Inject a little street cred into your wrapping with Monster Doodle paper by Jon Burgerman at Nineteen Seventy Three.

For the "Oh crap! I forgot to wrap your present" moment. Though, you'd better know someone in the UK if you want this, because they don't yet ship to the US. Wavy Stripe Shoe Box by Paperchase.

This would really pop with a bright red ribbon tied around it! Baubles in Blu by Pikku.

For a gift with a side of cheek. You're Welcome by Fish Lips at Verde Paperie.

I love mixing different colors of the same pattern when there are multiple boxes. Play by Eieio Studio.

Now that you have the paper, what do you do with it? Count on Kate's Paperie to tutor you in the art of gift wrap. Now go forth and wrap!

Top 10 Green Architecture Projects 2008: Inhabitat

Inhabitat featured the top 10 most impressive green architecture projects in 2008. I really only wanted to highlight a couple, but I really couldn't help myself. These projects are absolutely jaw-dropping feats of ingenuity and innovation.


Greenpix Zero Energy Wall


The 2008 Olympic Games in China featured several architectural marvels. The Greenpix Zero Energy Wall was definitely one of the biggest hits. It is the world's largest color LED display. The building operates as a self-sufficient organic system by harvesting solar energy during the day and using it to illuminate the screen after dark.


Cathedral of Christ the Light


This modern structure goes against the classical designs of traditional cathedrals. SOM wanted a theme of light to create a contemporary design the capture the soul of the Oakland community.


California Academy of Sciences




The Academy features an aquarium, a natural history museum, a living rain forest, a world class research facility all under a 2.5 acre green roof. The structure will house 38,000 live animals and is on track to receive LEED platinum status.


Zigguarat: Dubai Carbon Neutral Pyramid


The pyramids have inspired the latest proposed, Dubai super structure. The building will be a self sustaining metropolis that can house up to 1,000,000 people. There will be a public transportation system that will mobilize people vertically and horizontally. By running off of wind, stream, and other natural resources, the structure can operate completely off the grid. The giant, eco-pyramid is already being patented and could be the future for an overpopulated world.


The School of Art, Media, and Design in Singapore




The art school blurs the line between landscape and building. The series of roofs create great green space and helps insulate the building. It also harvests rainwater for landscape irrigation. The high performance glass façade reduces solar gain and heat load, while providing great views and loads of natural light for creative spaces.

Stuff Your Stocking! Part Two

I hope you enjoyed part one of the Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide, but if you didn't, maybe these will win your over! Twenty-five more tiny treasures for someone you love (or at least kind of like). Take a peek...

From top left, by row:

Tarina Tarantino Large Oval Cocktail Ring at Zappos, $92 (duh! Free shipping!)

Viva Terra Organic Chocolate Truffles, $36

Suck Uk Hymn Book iPod Case, available at High Fashion Home, $26

Pluma Feather Headband in Blue at Revolve, $48 (Other colors available and so in style!)

Pottery Barn & SurEvolution Frangipani Server Set, $27

Umbra iPod Nano Bungee in Blue, about $11

Uncommon Goods On/Off Duty Pillowcase Set, $32 (For those new parents!)

Victoria's Secret Pink Cotton Button-front Hipster in All Heart, about $8

White House/Black Market Grey Glass Pearl Starburst Pin, $41

Lutz & Patmos Cable Pillow Cover at West Elm, $39 (Don't forget a pillow insert!)

Benefit "That Gal" Face Brightening Primer at Ulta, $28

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel at Sephora, $45

Ikea Skimmer 11" Candlestick, $10 (Buy one of each size and mix them!)

Pier 1 Notepads, $6 each

Chef'n Garlic Zoom at Sur la Table, $10

Melissa Joy Manning Chain Wrapped Amethyst Drop Earrings at Shop Bop, about $88

Urban Outfitters Mix Tape Flash Drive, $15 (Add your own personalized mix!)

Williams-Sonoma Olive Wood Salt Keeper, $49

Papyrus Rainbow Swirl with Glitter Thank You Notes, $10

ZGallerie "Not Yours" Luggage Tag, $7

Oneida Set of 4 Cheese Spreaders, $20

Melie Bianco Diagonal Zip Clutch at Piperlime, $59

Restoration Hardware Rubik's Cube, about $10 (Everyone has to have one of these!)

MoMa Mini Sky Umbrella at Target, $35

RabLabs Agate Coaster Set of 4 at High Fashion Home, $59

Merry Christmas!

Shell House: The World's Most Stunning Home!

The Shell House is quite possibly the most breathtaking, architecturally design house that I've ever seen. The house was designed by Artechnic. Designboom recently highlighted this icon, which balances the "futuristic man-made structure and the environment which surrounds it."

How the shell-like structure just bends and surrounds the tree is a sight to behold.

I can read on that patio all day long.

I would host more barbecues if I lived in a house like that.

Yes, those are two skylights there.

Does anyone know where I can find some interior photos showing the home decor in this place? If it looks half as good as the exterior, I would probably be speechless....

Discover the "Green" in you!!

Attention Houston!

We have a NEW park in town and it's the coolest because it's green! I know, you're sitting there saying, "Aren't most parks...green??" Well, yes and no. The special thing about this park is the fact that it's LEED certified. Again, "What's that?" Well, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a new organization that regulates and sets standards for sustainable construction.

Discovery Green has an acre sized lake, a children's park, interactive water features, public art works and spacious lawns. It's located downtown near the George R. Brown Convention Center, Minute Maid Park, and the Toyota Center. How 'bout this? If you're bored one weekend, (especially since it's "winter") you can go ice skating for $10! Or, check out the park's calendar and see what's going on at the amphitheater! Take your dog, of any size, for a run! You could even grab a couple cocktails or a trendy meal at The Grove, or The Lake House--two of Houston's up-and-coming restaurants.

Once you visit you might think, "This park doesn't look any different than any other park I've been to..." Au contraire, my friend! The park uses recycled water is used to fill Kinder Lake, and what's even cooler is the oak trees seen throughout the park were rescued and transplanted to shade the trail!

The park encourages the community to be involved by offering a recycling every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as well as hosting the Downtown Green Market that is held Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. where local growers sell fresh fruits and veggies just for you!

Last but not least, The Grove has a green roof where they grow herbs and spices and the energy produced from the solar paneled roof on The Lake House could run two average American households! Yep. Awesome.
So, I don't know about you but I'm definitely going to be making a trip to Discovery Green. I better see you there!

My wishy wishy list.

It's almost that time. I know this for a fact because I work retail and that means that when Santa rolls on through at the end of the Macy's parade it is officially the holiday season no holds barred. By last month, I had my holiday window display fully formulated and plan of action in place. I have more magazines in my mailbox and email inbox alerts singing the praises of the how to's for the fastest/ juiciest/ healthiest etc. turkey preparation. Brine, don't brine, breasts only, infuse, citrus, stuff, don't stuff... And please do not get me started on the best cookies of the season. I have my own tried and true recipe, but I try all the new ones every time. I am a holiday sucker. Growing up in NYC, my Mom and Grandma would pick my little sister and me up from school the Friday before holiday vacation, layer us in thermals, lacquer our faces in Vaseline to prevent chapping and we would make our pilgrimage on the subway from Flushing, Queens into Manhattan to see the windows and the tree in Rockefeller Center. The day would not have been complete without the ubiquitous pretzels from the street vendor and some hot chocolate. New York holiday bliss!
But I digress... It seems that the last ten years working in retail display, attacking holiday merchandising plans in August and installing all week prior to Thanksgiving (no rest for the weary ha ha) has not made me the Grinch you might suspect, but quite frankly the opposite. In fact, I am working on my indie holiday music mix now to play on my ipod while I apply vinyl lettering to our windows. Call it a whistle while you work approach.
So, in the spirit of the season (and I do work retail, soooo a bit consumeristic in my approach today) may I present my wish list part one. And yes, I did say part one. And yes, it is random because it is after all a wish list!

The Tall Sapien Bookshelf from Design Within Reach has an amazingly small footprint which would be fabulous for my studio apartment. In fact, I have a space set out already just waiting for this bookshelf to come home. I just can't decide whether I want white or gray. I did request this for my birthday but alas, no one took me up on it. So it remains on the list hint hint!

The Loeffler Randall Olivia D-ring flat boot and the Tashkent by Cheyenne Florent Hidden Platform Bootie are both available at ShopBop. (Two pairs of black boots are not unreasonable... One is a flat, and the other is a heeled bootie! So obviously different!) And while on ShopBop, check out the scalloped leather LAMB booties with the peep toe. I would be happy with these as well. (size 7.5 fyi)

The Alexander Girard Wooden Dolls available at DWR are actually on the top of my list. I have been obsessed with the quirky dolls for years and would live to have one (or preferably 2) on my bookshelf. I do have my favorites, but I promise not to be picky and adore whatever one you wish to bestow upon me!

This Charcoal Water Pitcher from DWR filters water using Iouseki stones and Binchotan charcoal to create filtered, mineral-rich water! Stones! I will have the coolest water filter pitcher around. And eco friendly! My ongoing quest to impress my jaded "been there, done that" friends continues! Onward... (please pause to insert evil genius laugh here) Besides it just looks so chic. I am smitten with the Beam Coffee Table from High Fashion Home. It's clean lines and juxtaposition of polished metal and reclaimed peroba wood is eye catching and stylish.

Fashion vs. Furniture: The Wedding Edition

There's no doubt about your answer when you're wearing this Dior ring!

I love a good wedding... especially when it's mine. Yes, it's finally here! I'm getting married on Saturday! And with all the wonderful wedding spirit in the air, I had to bring on another edition of Fashion vs. Furniture, because it's my favorite thing to do! Enjoy! (My, my, my, but weddings do bring out the exclamation point-edness in me!)

A Modern Art Gallery Soiree

An art gallery might not be the first place that comes to mind to host your wedding reception, but it could be an amazing option! All the decoration you need is in the art, so everything else should be kept clean and simple. For the dress, pick something that is a work of art in itself. I love this quirky layered gown I found at Martha Stewart. Gallery photo via Flickr, Dress by Lela Rose.

A Casual Beach Bash

When you take the nuptuals outdoors, it's a good chance to get relaxed- dress and all. Kick off your shoes (yeah, like you could walk down a sand aisle in heels!), and put on a flowy gown that matches the casual atmosphere. Dress by Angel Sanchez.

An Intimate Restaurant Affair

A reception at a swanky restaurant, such as Tavern on the Green in New York, is a great excuse to wear something glam and sparkly. Everything in the room, from the crystal to the velvet chairs, seems to light up, and why should the bride be any different? This dress from Lela Rose should do the trick quite nicely!

An Airy Picnic Party

I've always loved the idea of a sweet picnic reception on a lovely Spring day, but alas, a lovely Spring day in Houston is as difficult to predict as what I'll be doing in 30 years! For those of you with year round beautiful weather (Northern California, I'm looking at you!), a picnic complete with gourmet sack lunches and charming cotton blankets is a romantic way to celebrate in the daytime. This J. Crew wedding dress is perfect for a day in the park, too!

A Classic Hotel Celebration

Is this Carolina Herrera gown not just perfect for the setting at the Hotel Icon? A timeless backdrop deserves a timeless look, and Carolina Herrera always delivers that! There's really nothing more to say, except that this is beautiful!

A Family Backyard Festivity

If you're fortunate enough to have a generous backyard, put it to good use. I love how rustic the decor at this wedding looks. String up some lights for when the sun sets and the party never has to end. For an outdoor fiesta, I'd choose a gown in a classic shape, created from comfortable vegetable-dyed silk to stay cool all evening. As for fighting frizz- you're on your own! Dress by Adele Wechsler.

A Different World

A full view of The Great Indoors by Aurora Robson.

I apologize in advance for telling you this on such late notice. There is an amazing exhibit at the Rice Gallery and I've only just seen it. Aurora Robson has created a new world inside the Rice Gallery. You might remember the blog I wrote about another exhibit entitled Dans la Lune by Kirsten Hassenfeld. This was another one of those experiences- the kind where every direction I turned there was something new and beautiful to look at. The artist literally transformed the small gallery space into, what I would describe as, a colorful planet in outer space.

Every piece of the 15,000 plastic bottles she collected was used to create something beautiful.

At first, you walk in through a vibrant tunnel, with each section looking unique from the one before. In the center of the tunnel, you come to a small cave, centered around a solar-powered, LED-lit, vivid red ornament resembling the heart of the world. Outside the tunnel are free-hanging configurations that conjure images of alien creatures.

I couldn't get enough of the free-hanging heart within the center of the tunnel.

One of the lavish creatures hanging outside of the tunnel.

According to the artist, her landscape was based on the human body, explaining the warm color palette used. Perhaps the coolest part of the exhibit is the materials she used: recycled plastic bottles. Any green you see is a Sprite bottle. For the ribs of the tunnel, she used only Poland Spring brand water. Most of the plastic is airbrushed with water-based paint giving it an impossibly consistent, tinted look.

A closeup of one of the hanging ornaments. I can only imagine how much time it took to create just one of these detailed masterpieces.

See the Rice Gallery website for more information, but keep in mind that pictures don't do this exhibit justice! If you have time to check it out before it closes on Sunday, October 26th, prepare to be amazed!

Waste Not

Even if you don't consider yourself to be "green", recycling is an easy thing anyone can do to prevent waste. After you empty that jar of jam, instead of tossing it in the garbage, rinse it and recycle it. It only takes a few extra minutes (if that) of your time and there are tons of places at which to drop your collected containers if your neighborhood doesn't collect it for you. Earth 911 will help you locate recycling centers in your area.

That being said, the toughest part of recycling can be keeping everything separated so that you can drop it off later. Of course, you don't need anything fancy- labelled trash cans would do the trick, but here are some great containers I found to keep your recycling organized.

If there are only one or two people in your house and you don't have a lot of garbage, these stackable baskets are a cute way to sort your recycling. I like them because they're inexpensive, come in lots of cute colors, and don't take a lot of floor space. Basic Stack Baskets, $6.99 each, The Container Store.

If you have a larger family and enough room for several slim garbage cans, try the SimpleHuman Slim Step Garbage Cans from Crate & Barrel. They'll hold a lot of recycling so that you don't have to drop it off every other day. $39.95 each.

If you really require a space saving design, or if you love to hear your aluminum cans crunch, try the Ecopod. There's a hole in the top for cans or bottles, which you can crush and then collect in a container in the bottom. Also, lift the lid for paper and glass storage. Unfortunately their online store isn't currently open, but check back if you're interested.

You can recycle more than plastic, metal, glass, and paper. If you want to take your recycling to the next level, start composting. I've blogged about the NatureMill Indoor Composting System before, but it's worth another post! Just drop in your leftover food, coffee grounds, etc. and two weeks later you will have recycled fertilizer perfect for tending to your plants. As soon as I get a house, I'm getting one of these! Starts at $299. $399 for the above model.

How To: DIY Flower Arrangements

Everyone wants their home to look impeccable to the last detail when they have guests over. It's also nice to come home after a long day at work and have your home look clean and welcoming. When you desire that extra little bit, it helps to have some flowers around. They'll make an imperfect room look that much better. Don't just grab a prearranged bouquet from the grocery store. It's easy and prettier to do it yourself. I've collected lots of inspiration pictures to get you going.

From top left: 1,2,3: Domino magazine. 4: Elle magazine. 5: The Knot. 6: Cynthia Mosser. 7: Vogue magazine. 8-16: Domino Mag.com.

1. A single bright bloom amongst leaves and grapevines suits a wine party.
2. Arrangements aren't limited to flowers- try large, colorful leaves from the garden for a quick bunch.
3. Small cream blooms wrapped in black paper and ribbon make a statement as a hostess gift.
4. Nothing is easier than one big bloom in a tiny bud vase.
5. Anemones are a beautiful flower when used just by themselves.
6. Try monochromatic blooms in a retro teacup for a feminine feel.
7. Flowers don't have to cost a fortune! Red carnations in a silver cup or pitcher are breathtaking. Use liberally.
8. For a larger grouping, use different containers with one type of flowers per container.
9. Traditional flowers, like red roses, look eclectic in a vase with edge.
10. For your next barbecue, float bright flowers in a clear container filled with water.
11. Hydrangeas are an easy choice- one stems covers a lot of territory.
12. Cute, retro aluminum cans make a perfect vase- place a plastic cup inside to prevent rusting!
13. Mimic the shape of a round vase with a packed in bunch of mums.
14. Gold vase + Pink blooms = Chic guest room arrangement.
15. If there is one color you'd like to focus on, find a flower in that color and just use one stem in a clear vase.
16. Redbud branches are beautiful when they bloom! Bring some indoors and use them everywhere!

Pre-Fab(ulous) and Mod(ular)!

I'd have to say that my new obsession would be the process of prefabrication and modular design. It's definately becoming a new trend that people are beginning to realize is more important than it sounds. Pre-fabricated and modular homes are the "new" up-and-coming thing in home building which is surprising since they've been around a little over a century. A little history lesson is in order here...

Pre-fabricated homes came about mostly because of the housing boom in the early 1900's. Because Ford was manufacturing hundreds of cars in a matter of days, homes were about to be mass produced thanks to assembly lines and conveyor belts. If you can believe it, Sears used to sell house kits in which the home was constructed at another location and was transported in about 30,000 different pieces. This allowed more Americans to purchase and build homes without a long wait or costing a pretty penny.

Today we have a similar system but now we're leaning more towards a "green" advantage to these lovely, piece-able abodes. Many companies, such as New World Home, are focusing the design and construction in a way that will save the consumer mega bucks in the long run. Between energy-star appliances and Hardiplank that doesn't have to be painted for fifty years you're sure to love the idea. When Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in Louisiana, thousands of people were left homeless and without any hope of rebuilding their lives. Brad Pitt is a perfect example as an angel of hope for those thousands of people. He is one of the many that are encouraging non-profit organizations and various companies to invest in designing and building pre-fab(ulous) and mod(ular) homes.

My co-worker, SarahwithStyle, also pointed out that modular homes are being built from old shipping containers. You know, the ones that are on the back of 18-wheelers, trains, or stacked upon thousands of each other in the Port of Houston--yeah, those! How awesome is that!?

I've come in contact with various individuals who don't think that the idea of pre-fabrication is a result of the green movement and cannot be aesthetically pleasing or practical when in which I completely disagree. For example, MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art in New York City) recently had an exhibition called Home Delivery. This exhibition focuses on exactly this topic but not without the creators of these homes proving to be extradinary artists and designers. Even IKEA is into this pre-fab thing. Can you imagine purchasing one of these babies and having it completely furnished? Too cool of an idea. Let's just hope that you have a Home Owner's Association that thinks the same thing!

The Great Outdoors?

To preface this blog, let me just say that I have never been the outdoorsy type. When I went to summer camp, I would dread the night when they made us actually sleep outside. When my sister took me camping on an island off of San Francisco, I panicked at the mention of "no bathrooms nearby". My idea of a fun camping trip is a two hour picnic- until now.

Thanks to Daily Candy (which informed me of the things in this blog), I actually want to give camping a try. I have three conditions:

My main beef about camping: the fact that I feel funky. There's a reason we learned to shower daily- we smell if we don't. So for my camping trip I would insist on having a Pocket Shower. So to review... Funky dance moves: okay, funky body odor: not so good.

Here's my second beef- when you are a girl, it is not easy to, ahem, relieve yourself outdoors. And if you have to go numero dos? Forget it. Where's the car? I'm outta here. That's why I would take the appropriately named Shit Box. Guess what you do with it.

On to my third, and final, condition. If I am going to shower and poo outdoors, it better be at the Ritz Carlton of campsites. So, I will be requesting a trip across the pond to FForest in Cardigan (that's in the UK y'all). You can stay the weekend in a dome like the one above and just zone out. No cell phone, no computer, no blogging. Just beautiful, natural surroundings, calming ocean, and your fellow travelers. I may just have to give this camping thing another shot.

Going Undercover

I knew a girl in college who refused to wear clothing made of synthetic materials because she didn't like the way it felt on her skin. The very same girl would buy and sleep on the cheapest, scratchiest sheets known to man. That makes no sense to me. We spend about one-third to one-quarter of our days in bed, so shouldn't we all sleep on something that makes us feel like we're sleeping on nothing at all? Of course! I love shopping for bedding and here are my reasons why:
1. Since my bedroom is very neutral, I can go nuts with the bedding- any color, any style, any pattern. That's some major versatility.
2. Bedding is easy to change and it's smart to have an extra set or two lying around for guests or laundry day.
3. There are so many amazing bedding options out there! Just check out the three I discovered through DailyCandy:

For eco-friends there is Plover Organic. They've got five lovely fabrics available for Spring/Summer that combine wonderfully. The materials used in creating the Plover bedding is (of course) organic and healthier for you and your family that the average dyed cotton bedding. That will help you sleep soundly!

The bedding from Lulu DK Matouk sprang from a collaboration between John Matouk & Co., a luxury linens company, and Lulu de Kwaitkowski, founder and designer for Lulu DK Fabrics and Wallpaper. What results is quality and style: fresh, clean patterns on 500 thread count Egyptian cotton.

For the avant garde adventurer, True Love Always will outfit your bed in bold graphics that are truly unique. Think of this as the Ritz Carlton of bedding to red satin sheets' hourly motel. There's nothing cliche about it and it's sexier than anything around. Enjoy.

Faux Bois for Mois!

As our world heads away from the space age to the more earthy eco-chic, the entire aesthetic of design has shifted. Not only do accessories have to be environmentally healthy, but it helps if they look the part as well. I know I've already write a couple of blogs on hot faux bois accessories on the market, but with so many great new options coming out, yet again, I can't limit myself! I have to do justice to the faix bois.

Michael Aram for Waterford: Crystal Pitcher $325 and Medium Lidded Box $95

Bronze Sapling Serving Utensils $70 (at High Fashion Home)

Nobilis: Papier Bois

Chilewich: Woodgrain Floormats

Twig Table $329 (at High Fashion Home)

Fashion vs. Furniture

Once again, you can look to your wardrobe to inspire your home decor and vice versa. Although, this time around, your dressers and bookcases are doing to work. Take your cues from the pieces we love and the pieces you have to make your look totally cohesive. You'll be that completely "together" friend that all your friends look up to (aka "are jealous of").


Look #1:

You've led a privileged life and that's nothing to be ashamed of. An elegant Southern mansion filled with priceless antiques and pristine first editions deserves the best. The Directoire Modular Bookcase from Grange complements that life of literary leisure that you are so accustomed to. And for those evenings when you thrown sophisticated soirees in said library, the gown, below, from Carolina Herrera will be true to your polished roots.








Look #2:

You're the contemporary, worldly type. While other kids were heading to Cancun for Spring Break, you were exploring Thailand. While other new parents want their kids to learn one foreign language, you take it for granted that your kids will be fluent in at least four. Your style is a mixture of all of your travels. The cultures you've seen, the people you've met, and the cities you've lived in. The Menlo Dresser, by Maria Yee, possesses that well-traveled, modern style without overpowering the rest of your belongings. Paired with a chic minidress from Vivienne Tam, you're ready for your next big outing- a night on the town.






Look #3:

Yes, you would consider yourself a fashionista, but never avant garde. You love glamour and getting dressed up is your favorite pasttime. When you get home from work, you get out of that boring corporate straight jacket and slip into satin and lace. You watch the Oscars every year. Your curves are absolutely your best asset. The Elisabeth Buffet from Oly mimics that Old Hollywood style that you so love. A floaty, feminine frock from Alberta Ferretti brings your red carpet fantasies to life.






Look #4:

Your home is important to you. You know? Earth. High design isn't enough for you. It better be eco-friendly as well. You like an organic look, but that doesn't mean you're going to run around in Birkenstocks. You don't have to sacrifice your style for your principles anymore. First of all, there's the Beam Bed by Environment. Made from Peroba wood which is recycled from old barns and buildings in Brazil, and accented with metal beams, it's the common link between fashion and environment. Then there are the amazing designs from 3.1 Phillip Lim. They are made from organic materials so that you can feel good about your debt-incurring shopping habit.






Look #5:

You're an intelligent lady. Emphasis on the L-A-D-Y. You love nothing more than curling up in a chair with a good book. But what about penning your own bestseller? There's only one way to accomplish that feat- a stylish, vintage-inspired writing desk. Don't worry about the fact that rather than quill and ink, you're tapping away at a laptop. The Shelby Desk by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams will adapt to whatever your medium- with style. To make your writing experience more ladylike, the dress below, from Behnaz Sarafpour, will be just lovely.

Sprig: Good Wood for a Green and Gorgeous Home

Legian Bed: Harvested mahogany combined with a stunning design.

Sprig.com was kind enough to highlight our Legian Bed. If you haven't checked out their site, it's pretty cool. Sprig.com's mission is to find eco-friendly alternative products without compromising great style and design. If you like shopping green, think of Sprig.com as your very own personal eco-shopper.

Brilliant Book of the Week:

Hey guys! Sorry it's been so long since I've posted---again! I have found an awesome sustainable living book for you though so I hope that makes up for my tardiness. I'm sure almost everyone is green-ed out by now but it's not a fad that will go away anytime soon. So basically we all have to suck it up and take it. :) Now, this book that I chose happens to have fantastic additions to help any home become more earth friendly. The second I read the first few pages I knew this was a book I had to buy and pass onto my fellow blog readers.

Check it out!

"New Sustainable Homes: Designs for Healthy Living," by James Grayson Trulove.

Take into consideration that this is not a how-to book; it mainly summarizes a few locations that are fully eco hugging homes. Geothermal heating and cooling systems (using heat from underground), clerestory windows (allowing daylighting to occur which cuts down on your electricity bill), triple-glazed windows (meaning three panes of glass seperated by heat absorbing gas), or a storm water retention system (used for irrigation, water reuse for the toilets, and potentially preventing flooding) are only a few of the items this fabulous book mentions. If you like to keep books on hand for random reference or if you really need ideas for your own home, I vote this book in. Hardcore.

Happy Reading!!

My Green Hero: Ami McKay

If you've been a reader of our humble blog for a while, you might remember my previous post about Pure by Ami McKay. Well, Ms. McKay certainly isn't one to rest on her laurels because, since that post, her line has exploded! After a few back and forth emails, I got the scoop on Ami's furniture line, her passion for finding inspiration and a potential singing career?! Read on...

Many textures combine flawlessly in a cozy living room by Ami.

What sparked your interest in furniture design? Have you always been a creative thinker?
Ami: Yes, I was definitely born this way. I am sure if I wasn't an interior and furniture designer that I would still be focused in the arts - possibly a visual artist. That was a childhood dream. I also wanted to sing, though I wasn't blessed with a talented set of lungs. I am sure others are grateful I didn't set out on that particular path either.

Where did you learn your craft?
Ami: Trial and error! I didn't have a mentor in the creative arts field. I stepped out on my own and tried my hand at things that called me. If I don't succeed at a particular thing I always try something new. Edison didn't invent the lightbulb without years of perseverance and failures. Though I am giving it my all - and having fun doing it!

Cyrilla Daybed

Where do you like to shop for things for your own home?
Ami: I am always on the hunt for pieces that speak to me. I think it is important to purchase furniture or accessories that capture a bit of magic - the essence of who we are which reflects our whimsical side, or our romantic side, or our pure, practical side.

What are the challenges you face in making your line eco-friendly?
Ami: Finding materials and showing people the benefits of sustainable, healthy furniture. Education- if customers knew that purchasing furniture without chemicals and fire retardants was better for our health and impacted our air quality in a significant way, they may look deeper into the world of soft furnishings and how they were manufactured.

Makeover Wish: Season 2 on HGTV

Your line has expanded significantly since I last blogged about Pure. Where do you see your line going in the future?
Ami: The possibilities are endless; I want to continue developing this line by adding other layers... fabric, lighting, wallpaper, books, etc. Anything that is for the home and kind to the earth. And, of course, to continue to develop the Pure furniture line. My inspiration board is chock full!

What new things are you working on right now that you can share?
Ami: Well, I have a few pokers in the fire. I would rather share them when I have confirmation - though they are very exciting!!!! I know... what a tease!

Makeover Wish: Season 1

Where do you find inspiration for your pieces?
Ami: I am inspired by everything! Nature, travels, architecture, sunsets. Truly any beautiful colour, shape, form, or lines that catch my eye and make my heart skip a beat.

Are there any designers or artists in particular that you look up to or draw inspiration from?
Ami: There are so many incredible artists and designers that impress me on a daily basis, though I cannot say with great conviction that one person stands out in my mind. I am moved more by a particular experience when viewing art or a beautiful space - it becomes personal.

Kiero Coffee Table (this one's my favorite!)

Are there any trends you've seen lately that drive you nuts?
Ami: When the term "trend" is used with "eco". There is nothing trendy about the green movement. It has been happening for a long time and thankfully others will now see the validity now of making healthier choices for us, our families, and the planet. That being said - I love that trendsetters are making inroads in incredible design with materials that are kind to the earth, and are incredibly sexy and beautiful!

If you could go on vacation anywhere to get inspired, where would you go?

Ami: Good question! I have been to Asia and Europe last year and I must say that if my eyes are open - I will be inspired. The galleries, restaurants, and fashion in Paris makes me want to stay there; the architecture and interior design in Italy is like living a dream where I don't want to wake up; and the colour, fabrics, and temples in Thailand are so tactile and rich - I love visiting a pure culture. I couldn't pick a favourite without feeling like I am cheating on all the others.

This girl has a lot going on!

If you haven't gotten enough (I haven't), visit Ami's websites: http://www.purebyamimckay.com/ and http://www.amimckaydesign.com/ to find out more about this amazing (and super nice!) designer. And stay tuned... Hopefully I'll find myself posting a part three in the future!

Peddle Power: City Bikes We Like

Two and a half years ago, I sold my dying car for parts. I never bought a replacement. That makes me sort of an anomaly here in Houston where the weather and urban planning do not lend themselves to a walker friendly environment. I have many answers to people who stare at me in disbelief when I tell them I am living sans auto. I get a weird thrill by saying I do it so that my carbon footprint is smaller than theirs, or that I am a truly a displaced NY-er who can't conform. Not driving is like my small rebellion.

However... every time about this year I wish that I could arrive at my destinations much faster. As the mercury rises (very quickly) and the humidity becomes unbearably oppressive I wonder why I don't own a bicycle. Now I am obsessed with all things bike. The last few years I declined to purchase one because I didn't know how to store it in my micro studio apartment, but I have seen some clever bike storage options and I am officially out of arguments.

Cycloc... a cool minimal way to get your bike out of your way. And your bike becomes art!

Industrial Designers have been stepping it up a notch on bike design for urban dwellers who are interested in style and design as well as high tech features. These bikes allow the rider to sit straighter.

Perhaps my favorite right now, the Fisher Simply City Bike. So classically pretty (*swoon)

Trek Soho

Puma Biomega fold-up city bike. You can store it under your bed or carry it on the subway.

The bike culture in some European cities has lent itself to a more fashion and comfort styled bike. The Dutch and Danish bikes are tops on my list. I dream of getting one of these and riding around like the girls from Copenhagen girls on bikes. Check out their cool fashion shots and tips on city biking.

Scrap Deluxe by Velorbis of Copenhagen. Yummy.

The Victoria Classic also by Velorbis. My other bike crush o' the day.

Oma bicycle by Jorg and Olif. A classic style you see all over Amsterdam.

Swedish Skkeppshult Z-Bike

Now that I am getting a bike, I have a legitimate reason to buy this adorable basket to hook onto my handlebars for carrying parcels. Its so great because it has a strap so you can carry it into the store as well! I'm all for the green one.

Carrie bike basket

One last thought: With gas prices rising to obscenely high prices and bicycles costing far less than a car, bikes are a great economical advantage for city commuters. They also do not contribute to environmental pollution and they are a great way to reduce obesity and get into shape.

And... how cool is this? The Bloom device lets you release seed saturated bubbles as you bike. According to the website "Similar to the tuft of a dandelion as the wind carries the seedling, we propose a way of dispersing seedlings with bubbles and bicycling. Seeds are co-mingled with a bubble mixture and upon pedaling to your destination , you release the floating seeds which land in cracks and crevices throughout the city streets. Over time, the seeds grow into flowers and plants to create a green "fringe" to our sidewalks and streets" Check out the video demonstration on their website.

Bloom

Happy Peddling!

Eco with Ease

I just got back from the most relaxing vacation in San Jose. Nothing but a long weekend of sun, family, and good wine! From the second I stepped off the plane, I noticed a few differences in this sunny state. For example: When my sister and I pulled into her driveway, I noticed a large assortment of trash bins. When you live in a city where many neighborhoods still don't recycle, seeing so many recycling bins is an interesting sight. So, here is the deal with the trash bins. Each house has two (yes, two!) giant blue recycling bins. Obviously, recycling is smiled upon in California. Then each house also has two large bins for yard waste like grass, leaves, and branches (maybe for making mulch?). Finally, each household receives one smaller bin for everything else. And that is it for the week. So, if you don't recycle, you will be struggling with your garbage!

I thought this whole concept was pretty interesting and I wish my neighborhood made it easier to recycle. I would recycle a lot more than I do now, if I didn't have to lug everything to their respective bins all the time. And until I moved out on my own, I didn't realize how much trash one person can produce! I think I've found a solution to reduce the amount of waste I put out. While perusing my Daily Candy, I found the NatureMill Indoor Composter. It will fit in a standard cabinet (perfect for apartment dwellers like myself), uses little energy for its composting adventures, and doesn't emit a stench of rotting food.

That will take care of all of the junk mail, leftovers that nobody ate, and those cookies I made, then felt guilty about eating, so I had to throw them away. Two weeks later, I will have a nutritous fertilizer for my porch plants and probably extra for the planters by my complex's pool! I like to share the wealth, after all.

After that, it's just glass and plastic and I'll be an Eco-heroine! Easy as pie!

Solar Lily Pads

I saw this on Inhabitat recently and thought this was brilliantly innovative. These Solar Lily Pads, inspired by nature, involve placing large solar panel discs on the surface of the River Clyde. The "lily pad" discs were created by ZM Architecture to aesthetically blend into the river ecology in Glasgow, Scotland.


The solar lily pads are equipped with an integrated motor and sensor which allows the discs to rotate toward the sun. The solar lily pads would therefore receive maximum exposure to the sun's rays.

The energy generated from the solar lily pads would be transferred to the city's main grid. Additionally, the plan could potentially be a catalyst for increased urban development and tourism. The proposal has been submitted to the Glasgow City Council for a trial project.

Top 5: Green Sports Cars by Inhabitat

Eco-Luxury Driving.

I'm pretty happy driving my Toyota Prius. Of course, my perspective is not of one that is a "car aficionado." Hybrid cars are becoming a much more relevant topic, especially due to higher gas prices and greater concerns for the environment. I tell people all the time that they should consider going with a hybrid, but the main objection I usually get is either price, style, and/or driving muscle. Well, Inhabitat has posted their "Top 5 Sexiest Sustainable Sports Cars". I can't say that these green machines address the price issue. But the cars are definitely stylish, and they'll be able to get you some speeding tickets.

1. The Tesla Roadster

2. Toyota FT-HS

3. Citroen C-Metisse Concept

4. Venturi Fetish

5. Saab Aero-X

Earth-Friendly Upholstery by LEE Industries

You've probably seen or heard about LEE Industries. It's hard to get away from these guys. They are featured in every home decor magazine imaginable. Everything from Domino to Metropolitan Home to Elle Decor has featured Lee Industries' eco-friendly, high style, high quality furniture.

Domino Magazine: The Green List / Living Room

Metropolitan Home: Green Solutions

Lee Industries has been working with Crate and Barrel for a while now. The Ross Sofa, Lockport Sofa, and Azure Sofa have been recently featured and heavily promoted by Crate as their eco-friendly upholstery frames.

Crate and Barrel: Ross Sofa - $2299

Our buying team first saw the Lee showroom back in 2004. Back then, they mainly did a lot of cottage furniture. Oh my, how things have changed. They went from outdated manufacturers to upholstery trend-setters. In a few weeks, we will proudly bring Lee Industries into our stable of great American upholstery manufacturers.

Every piece of LEE furniture is made in the USA by craftsmen that are experts in their field and take pride in their workmanship. They only use steel coil springs in their eight-way hand-tied seat decks. Their frames are certified, select kiln-dried hardwoods. The joints are double-doweled and every corner is blocked, screwed and glued. That means that your furniture will not creak, sag, split or warp, no matter what. LEE has a massive selection of fabrics with more than 1000 fabrics and 80 leathers to choose from.

Also, while many companies are adding the "green" label to their name, LEE has a long track record of eco-friendly manufacturing. They use naturalLEE soy-based cushions, certified frames, recycled filling for pillows, water based stains, and offer many organic and natural fabrics. Just by using the naturalLEE cushions, in 2007 alone, LEE Industries has saved over 10,000 gallons of crude oil and has eliminated 54,000 pounds of CO2 emissions.

With their unparalleled quality, style and love of the environment, their introduction at High Fashion Home is highly anticipated. Check out the photos below to see what's coming in:

Gorgeous tufted sofa in a velvet.

The fabric is beautiful up close. Looks close to the Azure Sofa from Crate.

This right-sized club chair features beautiful nailhead detailing on the back and sits great!

A very distinct sectional that looks like it belongs in the lobby of a boutique hotel.

Luxurious crewel fabric in a frame that is very Anthropologie-esque.

The down-seating is phenomenal on this piece. We're bringing it in a rich, khaki linen fabric.

Very handsome piece. We'll floor it as shown.

Before and After: Divine Eco Bedroom

Divine Design is definitely my favorite thing to watch on HGTV. Candice Olson has great ideas to make a bedroom look sophisticated and at the same eco-friendly. By using chemical free paints, recycled tile carpeting, and good old fashion fans instead of a central air system, you too can go green!

Before

After

You have to love the swanky armed, leather tufted, head turning accent chairs! They are available at High Fashion Home: Pierre Chair in Leisure Cream, $799

Earth Day After: Top 5 Eco-Friendly Woods

Since HF Guy beat me to the chase at publishing an Earth Day blog, I decided to make my own holiday: Earth Day After. It's like Earth Day, but one day late (and no, it doesn't come with any early morning regret).


Wood is probably a major component of the furniture in your home, if not the only component. So why not seek out woods that are stylish, durable, and eco-friendly. It's easier than you think to find sustainable wood designs that will decorate your home, keep some moola in your pocket, and do their part for Mother Nature. Read on...

Teak? Good. Reclaimed teak? Even better. Teak is fantastic because of it's strength and resistance to weather, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture. It is also strong even when it is not treated with any varnishes, so that is less to worry about as well. This Meg chair is made from reclaimed teak.

Peroba wood is one of my favorites because of its interesting texture and patina. The wood for this Lotus bed was recycled from old barns in Brazil. You can still see the paint on some of the wood chips. The peroba color varies from light to dark within each piece and is accented by responsibly harvested Mahogany.



Acacia wood, which makes up the Montana Dining Table, is another fantastic hardwood that hails from India. Its fast growth time makes it environmentally friendly, but its smooth surface and warm color make it perfect for a home. Another fun fact: Acacia wood is revered in India for its power to ward off evil.

BambooTimbre is, in a word, unique. It's all about texture with striated lines running through the piece. The lighter finishes espceially bring out the look. Bamboo also grows exceptionally fast and is durable enough to last for decades. The Carmel Media Cabinet is only one of many BambooTimbre pieces available at our store.

Did you know that once the fruit is picked from a Mango tree, it does not bear fruit again? That is why using the wood from the Mango tree is an eco-friendly move. Instead of pitching the wood in the garbage, farmers can make a profit from the barren tree and we can have beautiful furniture made from durable and water-resistant Mangowood. The Congo bed is a great example.

Earth Day: 50 Ways to Help the Planet

In celebration of Earth Day, find out about 50 ways in which you can help the planet courtesy of Wire & Twine.

Be sure to check out our previous post "How To: Green Your Furniture" to understand what you can do to make eco-friendly furniture purchase. Happy Earth Day everyone!

Earth Day: AIA Top 10 Green Projects

The American Institute of Architects selected the top 10 green projects in 2008 as outstanding examples of sustainable design.


Yale University Sculpture Building and Gallery was designed to provide maximum daylight and exceptional energy efficiency, a wall system was designed that incorporates solar shading, a triple glazed low-e vision panel, 8-foot high operable windows and a translucent double cavity spandrel panel.


The Queens Botanical Garden has propelled itself into the front ranks of its field as the first botanical garden in the country devoted to sustainable environmental stewardship.


The Nueva School's Hillside Learning Complex was designed to integrate straightforward, appropriate and cost-effective sustainable design solutions within the broader language of contemporary architectural expression.


The MacAllen Building Condominium features many green elements including innovative technologies that will save over 600,000 gallons of water annually while consuming 30 percent less electricity than a conventional building.


The Aldo Leopold Legacy Center is the first building recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council LEED program as carbon-neutral in operation.


The Lavin-Bernick Center was stripped to the concrete frame, expanded by 33 percent and redesigned with a variety of environmental systems.


Garthwaite Center for Science & Arts is a LEED Platinum certified building. Fifty-five detailed sustainability goals included renewable energy, no water to be discharged to the local sewer, 100 percent storm water infiltration on-site, artificial lighting designed to less than one watt per square foot and minimal maintenance for 20 years.


Pocono Environmental Education Center is a flexible, multipurpose gathering space for dining, meetings, lectures and other environmental learning activities.


The Discovery Center at South Lake Union was designed to be demountable, separating at three integrated joints to break into four separate modules capable of being transported along surface streets.


For the Cesar Chavez Library, the scarcity of water led to roof top rainwater collection for irrigation, while water reducing fixtures are used indoors.

The Real World: Hollwood Thinks Green

Furniture: The Santomer Bed has never look so good!

The Real World: Hollywood just premiered a few weeks ago. The show is typically all about drinking, fighting, regretful hookups, jealousy, backstabbing, cavorting, and a whole lot of family therapy. Now you can throw in eco-friendly trend-setter.

In a groundbreaking initiative for MTV, this new season will go "green" and introduce their young viewers ways in which they can incorporate environmentally-friendly household items and make eco-friendly lifestyle choices, as seen on "The Real World" into their everyday lives.

"The Real World" house will include everything from solar energy solutions to bamboo flooring, recycled glass counters, some sustainable furniture and recycled vintage decor, energy star appliances, a solar heated swimming pool and energy efficient lighting.

MTV worked with a wide range of environmentally-friendly manufacturers, including Environment Furniture. The Santomer Bed, shown above, uses reclaimed Peroba wood from old barns, house, and bridges in Brazil. It's furniture that sets the standard for aspirational interior design with an eco-friendly twist. You can also check out some of their other great, eco-friendly furniture products such as the Santomer Dining Table, Laurel Dining Table, Santos Dining Table, and Santos Coffee Table.

MTV is also allowing fans to interact in a Sims-like fashion with the Virtual Real World. In the Virtual Real World users can create their own avatars to learn about environmental facts, create eco-friendly virtual clothing and share stories about what they've done to better the environment.

Everything from the blue throws to the mint leather sectional makes for a dramatic statement.

The Real World House is all about bold colors!

The Eames Chair and Ottoman in a unique color.

The Santomer Dresser

Another shot of the Santomer Collection.

The coloration with the geometric patterns is nice!

It looks very close to the Ethan Bed.

The wall sconces are intriguing.

Welcome to the E-Book!

Newsweek: Reinventing the Book

Imagine being able to buy and read over 110,000 books at any given moment. Whether you are in a long car ride, relaxing at the beach, hanging out at a coffee shop, or laying down on your Tempurpedic mattress, you can decide to immediately pick up and read virtually all of the New York Times Best Sellers.


Welcome to the Kindle. Amazon introduced this revolutionary electronic book reader last November. It's been sold out ever since. The device is lighter and thinner than a paperback book and delivers a high resolution screen that looks like real paper. The Kindle's wireless connectivity can download a book in 2 minutes. The battery power last for 30 hours between charges. You can also subscribe to your favorite magazines or newspapers and receive your subscription hours or days before print subscribers.


The Kindle is by no means cheap at $399. You will be able to buy new releases and best sellers at $9.99. Of course, the Kindle does bring some extras to the table. Need to surf the web? You can connect and browse the internet for free. How about an MP3 player? Check. What if you need a dictionary? The Kindle comes with a built in Oxford American Dictionary. How do I know what book to buy? Download and read the 1st chapter to any book for free. Also, you'll have access to all the Amazon.com book reviews. And best of all, you'll be accruing some good karma by saving paper.

American Institute of Architects 2007 Housing Awards

The American Institute of Architects recently announced 19 recipients of the 2007 Housing Committee Awards. The awards are based on great design that highlight the "importance of good housing as a necessity of life, a sanctuary for the human spirit, and a valuable national resource." Prepare to be very envious when you check out the winning homes below courtesy of the L.A. Times.

The HF List: Top 10 Crate and Barrel Furniture Items

I know it's a little late, but I finally made it over to Crate and Barrel yesterday to see their new spring 2008 furniture collection. Here is my top 10 list of my favorite Crate and Barrel furniture pieces.

10. Seguro 68" Media Console - This eco-friendly media stand uses reclaimed Peroba wood from Brazil. Peroba was used a lot in the late 1800's and early 1900's to build houses, doors, bridges, etc. Each piece that a customer buys will be a little bit different in terms of the grain and paint residue in the wood. When you place your sleek plasma stand on this piece, you'll get this cool juxtaposition of modern technology and 100 year old woods that'll have all your guests talking.



9. Kyoto 42" Round Dining Table - This bamboo piece made by Maria Yee makes for a great breakfast table. Bamboo is a highly renewable resource. It'll only takes 8 years to reach full maturation. Bamboo is used a lot in Asian countries as scaffolding for their many skyscrapers, instead of the typical steel we use in the States. The curved base detail is a great touch.



8. Elan Bed - This is one of those beds where you have to buy the coordinating nightstands. I love the slats and the metal pull handle on the nightstand piece. The bed itself has such a clean, simple, elegant design. When you pair it up with the nightstand and all of it's architectural elements, it just makes for a very subtle, classic statement.





7. Elise Bed - The photo below does not do this bed justice. You need to see it in person to appreciate the distressed grey, hand finished wood . The light grey upholstered headboard in linen is beautiful. Made in Italy.



6. Collina Dining Table - This piece has been in Crate and Barrel's collection for several seasons now, but it's always been a favorite of mine. There is just something about that copper top, which makes it so distinct.




5. Colette Bed - This bed made by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is beautiful. The nailhead trim, luxurious beige linen fabric, and a slight arch at the top of the headboard makes for a very glamorous design.




4. Azure Sofa - The blue linen is outstanding. Tufts are really hot right now. The scale of this piece is perfect with the clean one seat cushion. It's a very contemporary interpretation of an old world design. Check out the arm detailing.





3. Valise Sectional - The leather on this is phenomenal. It's a deep seat piece with just the right proportions. The recessed, solid wood base adds makes the sectional feel like it's floating.



2. Ross Sofa - This is a brand new introduction. The linen has a terrific hand to it. I love the clean one seat cushion. Something about the scale and proportions makes this piece just feel right. Add in the fact that this piece has an extensive eco-friendly story behind it, it makes for a winner!




1. Lounge 93" Sofa - Crate and Barrel's sales people say that this is their number 1 sofa frame. I can see why. Deep seat sofas have really caught on fire. It's all about relaxing and putting your feet up after a hard day. It's a family oriented sofa with a clean modern design.

Eco Chic: Pure by Ami McKay

Fire Collection: Cyrilla Banquette from Pure by Ami McKay

Gone are the days of eco-ugly. With the arrival of the green movement we have been introduced to a foreign concept known as eco-chic. This is not an oxymoron. Take for instance Pure by Ami McKay. Her silhouettes are clean-lined and feminine in a vintage modern sort of way. But dig a bit deeper and you'll find that her principles and designs are quite eco-friendly. They are all created locally in Canada from sustainable materials using footprint reducing methods. She named each collection after the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Each collection lives up to its name (the Water pieces and blue, natch). Pure is the whole package of eco-chic!

Water Collection: Senna Lounge

Earth Collection: Sedge Sofa

Texas Is Biggest Carbon Polluter

Texans' True Love....The Truck!

Living in Texas almost my entire life, I didn't need a news report to confirm that Texas is probably the biggest polluter around. I was driving home from dinner tonight, and I witnessed an entire parking lot filled with SUV's and trucks. Only in Texas....

Texas spewed "670 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere in 2003, enough that Texas would rank seventh in the world if it were its own country, according to the most recent figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The amount is more than that of California and Pennsylvania -- the second- and third-ranking states -- combined."

Al Gore's Biggest Fan....Rick Perry

It is really troubling when the Governor of your state has "expressed doubt as to whether global warming is even a manmade problem." Of course, our leadership only reflects the attitude of most Texans. Fewer than 4 percent of Texans polled last spring viewed the environment as a top concern. Contrast that with a national poll of Americans where almost 50% viewed global warming as a very serious issue.

It's time to make the switch to CFL's.

Well, if Texans can't shake their love of trucks, can we at least make the switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs? The environment's most unlikely champion, Wal-Mart, is even hip with it. Click on this New York Times article to see how we can all play the biggest part in the simplest of ways.

Penguins need our help!


A CFL bulb can look good in a chandelier.



High Fashion Home has switched out 90% of the display lamps and chandeliers to CFL's.

Presenting... The Environment Gallery

Holiday Gift Ideas: Green Gift Guide: For Her (Inhabit)

Check out Inhabit's timely blog on "Green Gift Guide: For Her".




Solar powered purse that can recharge anything from iPods to cellphones. Sweet!

Cortland: $383

How To: Green Your Furniture (TreeHugger)

I ran across this useful guide from the good folks at TreeHugger. Here are some excerpts from their top 3 tips for going greener with your furniture.

1. Certified sustainable wood

"The world needs more trees, not less, so practices that lead to deforestation aren't any good. There are sustainable ways to harvest wood. Wood from sustainably harvested forests, sustainably harvested tree farms, and reclaimed wood are the main sources. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and its largest forest certifier, the Rainforest Alliance, is the most widely used standard for sustainable forestry."The Berkeley Bed by Copeland Furniture, which is FSC certified, is made in Vermont. It's use of solid cherry, which ages and darkens over time, is a great example of green furniture with great design.

2. Furniture made with reclaimed materials

"Reclaimed wood usually comes from old furniture, houses, or other built things that are ready for some friendly reincarnation, from flawed wood, or from scraps from a factory that makes other stuff. Either way, furniture made from reclaimed wood is a great example of resource efficiency, but usually comes in shorter supply. "

The Santomer Dining Table is a stunning, contemporary piece of furniture. The Peroba Wood, which is reclaimed wood over 100 years old from old barns, houses, and bridges from Brazil, is combined with a simple, modern design to create an eclectic masterpiece that can work in a modern, transitional, rustic, or traditional home.

3. Bamboo

"You've probably heard by this point that bamboo isn't a tree at all, but a grass. Bamboo represents a family of grasses that range in size from tiny to huge, and in color from lime green to maroon stripes. It is incredibly fast-growing and versatile and has become the unofficial poster material of environmental designers and builders. Bamboo can be flattened into flooring, molded into furniture, pressed into veneers, sliced up to make window blinds, or hey, you can just build your whole house out of it. Using bamboo in buildings earns architects and builders LEED points. Most bamboo comes from China and is grown with few of no pesticides. Because it is so fast growing, it is much easier to maintain healthy bamboo forests."

The Metro Drum Table is a feat of innovative engineering and great design. You can pair them up to make for a great cocktail table setting or isolate them with a nice accent chair in the corner. It uses a remarkable patent pending Bamboo Timbre, which is "a proprietary process of layering and bonding flattened bamboo culms, or stalks, in defined patterns to create boards as thick as 8 inches."

High Fashion Home never set out to be a retailer of so many green products. We instinctively gravitated to products that exemplified great design, quality, and value, which also happened to be eco-friendly. It's a beautiful thing when you can buy what you love and help the environment along the way.

Maria Yee, Eco Luxury Pioneer

Maria Yee started her company in 1988. Her story is a remarkable blend of courage, ingenuity, and inspiration, which parallels her furniture pieces. Her company is now recognized as the premier brand of Eco Luxury furniture.

Here's some background info on what makes her patent pending BambooTimbre so amazing.

A view of an enormous bamboo sea, which surrounds the Maria Yee factory

Bamboo shoots, ranging from 30 days young to 4 years old, grow harmoniously in this bamboo forest


Moso, the bamboo species we use to make our BambooTimbre, thrives in subtropical monsoon climates. This giant reaches 80 feet tall, its maximum height, and 6 inches in diameter in the first growing season. Moso attains full maturity in about 5 years.


Stacks of bamboo culms await processing into BambooTimbre



A BambooTimbre table leg shows how bamboo flats are layered and bonded in defined patterns



BambooTimbre boards constructed with BambooJoinery system



A craftsman hand planes a BambooTimbre tabletop



A finished BambooTimbre dining table shows the silky bamboo grain and texture