I worked with the Grier family of Naperville, to remodel their kitchen and living room. They are passionate about growing plants and we decided to reuse some of their existing cabinetry. We added glass shelves above for lighting the plants and making the space appear more open. Incorporating Ice Stone countertop surface, made of recycled glass, concrete and crushed mother of pear shell. A beautiful addition and use of recycled material.

Reusing existing cabinetry and repainting are easy ways to freshen up a space and save money.

Check out the article here: “Cheap Yet Chic Updates”.

I love Nakashima’s work and look to it as modern masterpiece in the essence of maintaining the natural form.

Thanks Art Van Furniture for the Tweet.

Last week we took in a sneak peak at, “Steelroots: Tobin at The Morton Arboretum.” The metal sculptures are peaceful, above ground and alive with energy.  The kids got a hands on appreciation for what tree roots are like.

The article mentioned:

“Cindy Grier of Naperville was looking for that kind of expertise when she hired designer Elizabeth Marusin of Asparagus Interiors Inc. to assist with a kitchen and family room remodeling project.

“I don’t know how to do this kind of thing,” said Grier, who had lived in her home for 20 years with few updates before undertaking the project. “I really needed someone to help me.”

Marusin, who prides herself on her knowledge of green products, helped Grier and her husband repurpose a pair of built-in bookcases by repainting them and adding IceStone shelves for plants, a material made of recycled glass and concrete. Marusin also helped the couple save money by working their existing appliances and artwork into the space plan she developed.

Admittedly, I knew little about the maker, but with a push from a friend I went for it.

After taking off the skirts on the chairs, I quickly realized these chairs were of great quality and made with attention to detail.  The layers of upholstery material, spring system and stitching detail add to a valued piece.

According to the Honquest website, “Richard Honquest founded Honquest Furniture for Living in a former general store in Addison, Illinois in 1960. In 1976, we opened the first showroom in the renovated Ice House Mall in Barrington.”

I think my chairs were from the earlier days.  As the wool fabric is very retro 70’s.

Fully customizable casegoods such as media center, storage, wine bar and entry way units that are fully customizable and meet a more modern style.  Clean lines and up-to-date finishes make this suite of furniture to appealing to an emerging audience of good quality furniture buyers.

Just as good as ever, Howard Miller, has introduced the ol’clock with modern appeal.  Made in Zeeland, MI and manufactured in the USA, these items are keepsakes and functional artwork.

Dorchester Wall Clock, I source Howard Miller thru FCA Design Center, Naperville.

Like the not so serious Risom Side Chair, I like the style of the Bertie box.  How much fun would this chair be for a kid to read on, an accent in a hallway, or coffee nook with small side table.

With the latest designer / retailer parings, the collaboration with Mina Javid couldn’t be more fun.

Keeping it simple, clean and two dimensional always captures the eye and makes the unexpected stand out.

Details to notice: 1) Wall sticker goes to the floor “over the base board” for a more realistic look. 2) Scale of the object is proportional and realistic. 3) Depth of color is solid and will set off any background color.

Like the designs, check out Mina Javid’s clean interiors with a mid-century nod to Heath Ceramics and what looks to be solid walnut custom furniture.

While your there be sure to stop by Cocoa Bean for fine pasteries and coffee.  Check out Sentimental Gardens and Debra’s new blog 5th and State.  Take home some awesome pretzel rolls from Hahn’s Bakery, just off 3rd.

***As a side note, check out my new silk scarf designs.  I’m hoping to make more for the upcoming Partners for Clean Choice – Auto and Home Life Show, Naperville, IL.