Asparagus Interiors Inc.

This weekend my sister a friend and I went to the DIY Trunk Show in Chicago. It’s a group of 100 local crafters that are pushing the edge in hand made goods and artwork.

I purchased 3 prints from Emily Kberman , she applies a reprinted Audubon bird to a painted canvas, accenting the birds colors and positioning them to appeal to the graphic nature of the print.  I’m loving these birds, most likely appreciated in groups.

Other artists I found interesting:
up in the air somewhere РDelicate papier-m̢ch̩ and ceramics Рjust delightful!

Laura George – Artwork and Illustration – quirky and mod, I love it.

Circa Ceramics – Fun ceramic bowls, cups and goodies.  Cutie, bold and kitschy.

Art Goodies – Handmade towels and pillows with animal block prints.  Very "Leave It to Beaver" but fun.

While out on a Sunday drive with the fam, I wanted to take Mike past a favorite building of mine in St. Charles, IL.  The Aquascape headquarters.  It’s won LEED Silver certification by the USGBC.

I love the architecture as the roof slopes, widows allow natural light in from the East, and the use of raw metal and painted steel to add a modern mix.  The green roof is living and has grown since I first saw the building. A little prairie in the mix of the midwest.

This past weekend we had a night out in downtown Glen Ellyn and spent the next afternoon in Geneva, IL.  I’m trying to make a point of it to shop local and dine in the downtown areas surrounding Naperville.  It’s fun to see what local restaurants are offering and how the old school ambiance can be a refreshing change from the big box scene.

I’m a sucker for nostalgia, unique architecture and beautiful landscaping.  We strolled by Giesche Shoe Store in Glen Ellyn.  Giesche is a Glen Ellyn staple and has been around for many years.  The architecture of the store is similar to the International Style, steel and glass buildings, you often see in Chicago.  The decorative plants echo the buildings longtime presence and have been cultivated to reflect the buildings style and era.

A Sunday stroll along Geneva’s, 3rd street shopping district, lead me to the vibrant almost ornamental rhubarb.  I’ll have to confirm the species with my friend Geno over at Neri Landscape , but the bright stems of fuchsia, orange, yellow and red got me thinking.  Are these colors the jewel tones of the fall?  Purple fall cabbages are great ornamentals adding color and texture to any front entryway.