Local Artist Mary Jo Hoffman Expands STILL to Include New Zen Collection

Artist Stephanie Dillon and her husband, Reilly, were captivated by a model home in Eden Prairie, which boasted a blend of whitewashed shiplap and shakes on its exterior, creating a timeless and airy aesthetic. The interior featured light-filled communal spaces, each with a distinct character, moving away from conventional floorplans. The color scheme ranged from calming charcoals and pale neutrals to deep greens and rich terra-cotta, evoking a European atmosphere. Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang, owner of West Bay Homes and the designer behind the model, drew inspiration from her travels to Paris, characterizing the style as French contemporary farmhouse. She envisioned the kitchen as a French pastry shop, integrating multiple layers of meticulously detailed materials throughout the 5,000-square-foot residence. The kitchen's design incorporates three types of glazed tiles for the backsplashes, with a small hexagonal tile chosen for its light-reflecting properties, contributing to an elevated visual experience. Dillon, an acrylic and mixed-media artist known for painting her emotions, found a kindred spirit in Vogelgesang, whose design philosophy also prioritized passion and feeling. Dillon retained Vogelgesang to complete the interior design of their new home. The designer expressed enthusiasm for incorporating Dillon's extensive rug collection. Elements like shiplap and painted charcoal, seen on the exterior, were repeated inside on the basement's fireplace wall and the vaulted ceiling of a lounge area adjacent to the kitchen, along with charcoal-colored square tiles extending from counter to ceiling in the kitchen backsplash. This repetition of color ensures cohesiveness and a holistic progression throughout the home, where all environmental elements relate to one another. Vogelgesang skillfully managed the abundance of materials, preventing a busy or cluttered appearance, much like Dillon blends colors on her canvases. Some design choices stand out, others recede, and some shimmer, collectively defining the mood of each space. The materials coalesce into a balanced and proportionate composition, resulting in a home tailored for an artist. Vogelgesang aims to create spaces that are timeless and elegant without being overly delicate or cost-prohibitive. The lower-level bar area features charcoal shiplap around the fireplace, painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Dorian Gray, and steps down into a sunken media room, showcasing the designer’s preferred brass and gray combination. Brass hardware also adorns the front entry doors. Light fixtures, including those from Mitzi on the library ladder, were strategically chosen. The unexpected entry leads to a "dining hall" that functions as a grand foyer, as described by Vogelgesang. This space features nine-inch-wide-plank white oak floors laid in a herringbone pattern, with ceiling beams bisecting its soaring height, allowing ample natural light. The built-in bar features a backsplash of alternating light and dark neutral tiles, custom cabinetry with dental molding, and a marble sink skirt. Open shelving in the kitchen displays two sizes of backsplash tiles from The Tile Shop, with custom alder wood cabinetry finished with a clear whitewashed stain and brass hardware for an enhanced shimmer. The kitchen, inspired by Parisian pastry shops, includes two islands for ease of navigation, with only one housing a sink to allow for uninterrupted dining on the other. The mudroom boasts large-format heated tiles combined with white oak cabinetry, finished in a whitewash stain, offering an industrial concrete look harmonized with French country cabinetry. A basement guest bath incorporates vibrant color through whimsical floral tiles from The Tile Shop on one wall and Sherwin-Williams’s Perfect Periwinkle on the adjacent wall. The library features a bold mix of Sherwin-Williams paints: Canyon Clay on the walls and Gauntlet Gray in a high-gloss enamel finish on the moldings and doors, complemented by chartreuse chairs. A wide-plank whitewashed cedar wall on the rear deck provides privacy. The prep kitchen off the mudroom embraces color with Waverly Classics wallpaper by York, cabinets painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx, and a hammered copper sink, showcasing how personal touches can enhance practical areas. The powder room dazzles with an antiqued mirrored glass tile wall from The Tile Shop, a custom white oak vanity with a marble shelf, and Savoy House sconces. The floors throughout the home incorporate patterned ceramic tiles from The Tile Shop. The home's floor plan, while a traditional rambler, diverges into an unconventional layout where the front entry opens into a vaulted foyer and dining room, serving as a pass-through to the kitchen and great room. #HomeStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #FrenchContemporaryFarmhouse #CustomCabinetry #TileDesign #ArtisticHome #ArchitecturalDetails #EuropeanInfluence

The recently opened J.Crew men’s store on the Bowery in New York City offers a unique shopping experience infused with vintage aesthetics and a distinct boathouse theme. Designed by Estelle Bailey-Babenzien of Dream Awake, the concept shop serves to launch the brand's first men's collection, spearheaded by her husband, Brendon Babenzien, J.Crew men’s creative director and Noah cofounder. The design aims to blend a classic yet current vibe that resonates with the J.Crew customer and the New York lifestyle, incorporating elements like unlacquered brass, warm woods, worn rugs, nutty brown leathers, and strategic splashes of J.Crew green, a deep foresty shade visible on the coffee bar walls. Beyond its retail function, the store's highly curated interior also serves as a source of practical and creative closet organizing inspiration. Bailey-Babenzien highlights three key strategies homeowners can adopt to transform their dressing rooms into spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. The first technique, termed 'Either Oar,' involves utilizing decorative items like oars not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for practical purposes. In the store, paddles are adapted into a rack for hanging garments, a concept that can be replicated in entryways or mudrooms to provide useful hanging space while maintaining a nautical theme. The second tip, 'Go Vertical,' encourages moving away from conventional enclosed closet rods. The store showcases an innovative hanging solution where clothing rods, rigged by a sailboat captain with climbing rope, can be installed in open spaces. This method allows for greater flexibility in placement and offers an opportunity to incorporate unique materials like black rope to match personal style, transforming a mundane storage solution into a design feature. Finally, 'Forward Thinking' focuses on the strategic use of simple hooks or knobs, exemplified by brass fixtures in the store. These elements are designed to turn clothing forward, making it easier to view and select outfits. Additionally, hooks provide convenient spots for organizing accessories, enhancing the overall functionality and tidiness of a closet or dressing area. These design insights from the J.Crew store demonstrate how retail space design can inspire practical and stylish home organization solutions, creating dressing rooms that are both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. #ClosetOrganization #DesignInspiration #RetailDesign #HomeOrganization #InteriorDesign #FunctionalDecor #JcrewStore #EstelleBaileyBabenzien

This blog post highlights a unique studio apartment located at 400 West 12th Street in the Superior Ink condo building, West Village, New York City, currently listed for $2.3 million. The 943-square-foot residence, described as a “zen suite,” features an interior meticulously designed with a focus on luxury, custom elements, and smart home technology. The apartment's aesthetic is characterized by a blend of natural materials and contemporary finishes, creating a tranquil and sophisticated living space. The entrance to the home features a narrow hallway adorned with leather walls, artistic displays, and subtle light coves. This hallway provides access to essential amenities including a full bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a washer/dryer closet. A smaller closet ingeniously houses a Savant smart home system, allowing for integrated control of the apartment's various functions. The bathroom itself is a showcase of modern design, featuring heated travertine floors, a limed oak vanity topped with white Quartzite, a spacious walk-in shower with a teak floor, and a separate water closet, emphasizing both comfort and style. The kitchen area is equipped with white Quartzite counters, a distinctive blue-vein Cipolino marble backsplash, a Sub-zero refrigerator, and stainless-steel Viking appliances, indicating a high-end culinary setup. Adjacent to the kitchen is a bedroom alcove, which has been reconfigured into a custom dressing room surrounded by built-in closets, catering specifically to individuals with a significant wardrobe. Both the kitchen and the dressing room can be privately enclosed using hand-carved sliding doors imported from Bali, adding an exotic touch to the interior. The main living space is accessed via a hallway lined with architectural mirrors. The bed area is distinguished by a white leather headboard and a coordinating footboard that cleverly conceals a custom television lift. The room offers ample space for a separate sitting area and features Shagreen counters, grasscloth walls, and large south-facing windows that fill the space with natural light. The apartment boasts 10-foot ceilings throughout, Morado wood floors, custom light fixtures, a built-in audio system, and electronic drapes, sheers, and shades, enhancing the luxurious feel. The Superior Ink condo, built in 2010 and designed by Robert A.M. Stern, is LEED-certified, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability. Its prime location offers residents convenient access to Hudson River Park, the High Line, the Whitney Museum, and other cultural attractions within the West Village. The building also provides a range of amenities, including a residents’ lounge, a screening room, a fitness center with a pilates/yoga room, a playroom, and 24-hour concierge and doorman services, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience. #WestVillage #StudioApartment #LuxuryRealEstate #SuperiorInkCondo #InteriorDesign #SmartHome #Fashionista #NewYorkCity #RobertAMStern

Martha Stewart has unveiled a new paint collection in collaboration with Fine Paints of Europe, featuring 40 nature-inspired wall paint colors. This partnership marks a return to the brands' previous collaborations, which began in 1994 and became highly regarded among design enthusiasts and DIYers. The new collection offers four finishes—flat, matte, satin, and brilliant—and is available for purchase on the Martha Stewart storefront on Amazon. The line includes reissues of popular shades from Stewart's original collections, such as Araucana Blue, which was inspired by the eggshells of her favorite chicken breed, the Araucana. Other returning favorites include Glass of Milk, a warm, pink-tinted white, and Sharkey Gray, a versatile greige named after Stewart’s associate, Kevin Sharkey. These reissued colors aim to bring back the beloved aesthetic of her past paint offerings. The collection is organized into three distinct color categories: warm, cool, and neutral. The warm palette is designed to evoke a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making spaces feel more comfortable and welcoming. The cool colors are intended to impart a sense of sophistication and calm, contributing to a serene and refined interior. The neutral range focuses on creating balance and subtle elegance, serving as foundational elements that can complement various design schemes. Martha Stewart emphasized that the collection was curated to be both functional and appealing, reflecting her philosophy that a home should cater to both practical needs and aesthetic desires. Stewart expressed her hope that this new collection will inspire consumers' next home projects, highlighting that paint serves as the fundamental element in a well-designed space. She noted that choosing the perfect core design elements, with paint being the foundation, brings the entire interior together harmoniously. Although the paints are priced at $125 for less than a gallon, the article suggests that the rich pigmentation and luxurious finishes may justify the cost. The original Fine Paints of Europe collections were renowned for their silky texture and high quality, setting a precedent for the current offering. This launch signifies Stewart's continued influence in home design and her commitment to providing high-quality products that enable individuals to transform their living spaces. The collaboration leverages the established reputation of Fine Paints of Europe for premium paint formulations and Stewart’s discerning eye for color and design. The collection's nature-inspired theme underscores a timeless approach to interior aesthetics, encouraging the creation of environments that feel organic and harmonious. The availability of these paints across various finishes allows for versatility in application, catering to different design preferences and functional requirements within a home. The article also mentions ongoing plans to test the paints and provide further feedback, indicating an interest in evaluating their performance and confirming the quality associated with both Martha Stewart and Fine Paints of Europe. The high price point suggests that these paints are positioned as a premium product, targeting consumers who prioritize durability, richness of color, and a sophisticated finish. The reintroduction of classic shades from Stewart’s past collections aims to appeal to a loyal fan base while also attracting new customers seeking trusted and aesthetically pleasing paint solutions for their homes. Ultimately, the collection is presented as an opportunity for homeowners to elevate their interiors with colors that are thoughtfully curated and inspired by the natural world. #MarthaStewart #PaintCollection #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #FinePaintsOfEurope #HomeMakeover #DesignInspiration #WallPaintColors #DIYHome

Becky and David Anderson, after living in Los Angeles and Boulder, Colorado, decided to create a vibrant and welcoming home in Minneapolis, near Bde Maka Ska, when they relocated in 2020. The couple, known for their hospitality, aimed for a space where guests would feel comfortable and at ease. Their previous homes were centers for family gatherings, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations, a spirit they wished to replicate in their new residence. Starting with minimal possessions, including a significant abstract painting by a friend, the Andersons enlisted designer Victoria Sass to transform their house into a home that reflected their personality and style. A key element of the design was the incorporation of color, drawing inspiration from Becky's profession as an owner of Bluebird Floral Design and the vivid hues of the abstract artwork. Sass also found inspiration in the earthy tones of Heath Ceramics but prioritized the Andersons' kind, generous, and mindful nature as her primary muse, aiming to infuse joy into the design. The house, built in the early 2000s, already possessed a relevant aesthetic with Scandinavian and Japanese influences, evident in the blond woodwork, frosted glass resembling rice paper, and a soaking tub. Sass made a conscious decision to respect and build upon these existing architectural elements rather than mask them. Her approach involved appreciating the home's history, the owners' story, and adding her unique perspective to create an eclectic and interesting design. Specific design choices included addressing a large paneled wall with a Noguchi Akari light sculpture, which provides a soft glow when illuminated at night and allows the space to breathe without excessive adornment. The dining area features curved Crate and Barrel chairs around a bluestone-and-oak table, suitable for games. The original gray stone fireplace was updated by painting it white, enhancing its texture and integrating it into the clean aesthetic, while drawing attention to the warm tones of the seating. In the vaulted living space, the challenge was to create coziness without losing its airiness or the lake views. Sass achieved this with a pair of sofas: one upholstered in a Japanese shibori-inspired fabric and another in tufted green linen. Moroso quilted armchairs completed the grouping, providing visual and tactile diversity that engages occupants with their surroundings and makes the vastness of the space feel secondary. A zero-waste rug from Winsome Goods, made from textile scraps, was hung as a tapestry above the original maple console, adding movement to the tableau. The kitchen was warmed with subtle colors through a deep green ceramic backsplash, soft sage counter stools, and earthy terra-cotta island pendants. The dining room features pink velvet chairs from Blu Dot and a meandering steel chandelier that fosters conversation without obstructing the view of Bde Maka Ska, while FLOR carpet squares define the area. #HomeTours #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeStyle #ScandinavianDesign #JapaneseDesign #ColorfulInteriors #VictoriaSass #MinneapolisHome

Hitomi Hosono's latest solo exhibition, 'Brook Street: An Artist's Eye,' showcases 30 new ceramic pieces within the historic London showroom of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. This unexpected pairing brings contemporary botanical ceramics into a space known for its classic English grandeur, a Mayfair townhouse dating back to 1723. The exhibition, held in association with Adrian Sassoon, strategically places Hosono's works among antique furnishings, often near windows overlooking a lush garden, creating a dialogue between crafted and natural beauty. Hosono's work, while deeply rooted in her Japanese upbringing with its delicate leaf and cherry blossom motifs, also draws inspiration from British influences. A significant example is her 'roses and pansies bowls,' which were inspired by a Colefax and Fowler fabric pattern from 1845. This particular series marked a technical and aesthetic departure for Hosono, as these bowls close inward, offering a sturdier, more tactile surface meant to be touched, contrasting with her earlier, more outward-emanating designs. She expresses a desire for people to experience the softness of the porcelain, akin to touching flower petals. The exhibition also features a tropical-themed series, initially created for last year's Jerwood Makers Open, with energetic patterns of hibiscus, coral, mangrove, and banana leaves. The vibrant colors in these pieces are achieved by mixing pigment directly with porcelain powder, a technique Hosono employs to preserve the intricate lines of her designs, as glaze would obscure them. Her use of the term 'delicate' for her work is an understatement, given the extraordinary level of detail and precision involved. Hosono's artistic process is meticulously labor-intensive. It requires months to perfect plaster molds of tiny leaves and flowers. She then uses modified, sharpened dental tools to add intricate detail to each component before individually applying them to a clay surface. Some pieces are so fragile that they cannot be shipped internationally due to the risk of damage. Notably, in her 'dew drop bowls,' each water droplet is individually carved, a detail she acknowledges might not be immediately noticed but is essential for the beauty of the final work. For the first time, Hosono's drawings are also on display, a decision influenced by Philip Hooper, design director of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler. Hosono initially resisted this, considering drawings part of her creative process rather than finished products. She uses drawing to understand the structure and beauty of plants, viewing it as a form of anatomical study. She emphasizes that her ceramic representations are not exact replicas but are based on her memories and interpretations of botanical forms, leading to fantastical yet authentic results. She embraces the individuality of her artistic vision, as seen in her distinctive banana leaf pieces. The influence of the Perrier-Jouët Arts Salon Prize, which Hosono won in 2013, is evident in grape-patterned vessels that pay homage to the champagne house's Art Nouveau heritage, and in the overall adventurous and free-spirited nature of the collection. As a member of the Arts Salon, Hosono now contributes to selecting new winners, acknowledging the Salon's role in broadening her artistic horizons and providing a source of inspiration through its gatherings of creative influencers. #CeramicArt #HitomiHosono #LondonExhibition #InteriorDesign #BotanicalArt #ContemporaryCeramics #ArtAndInteriors #SibylColefaxAndJohnFowler #AdrianSassoon

Emily Van Hoff, a Chicago-based artist, creates vibrant wall hangings that seamlessly blend her background in graphic design with traditional quilting techniques. These pieces are a contemporary homage to the craftswomen of past generations, showcasing a distinct fusion of digital design principles and tactile artistry. Van Hoff's work is characterized by geometric patterns and bold color palettes, including shades of bubblegum pink, lavender, and cobalt. Each wall hanging incorporates design elements such as thick stripes, bisected circles, and meticulously arranged rows of stitches, reflecting her stated goal of translating digital design into tangible art objects. Working from her home studio, Van Hoff meticulously constructs these textile art pieces, imbuing them with a modern aesthetic while respecting the heritage of quilting. The choice of colors is deliberate, creating a striking visual impact that makes her work highly sought after. Her creations are not merely decorative items but expressions of a creative process that bridges two distinct disciplines: the precision and visual communication of graphic design with the warmth and texture of textile art. The quilts serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of handcrafted goods and the potential for traditional crafts to evolve through contemporary influences. Van Hoff's artistic practice highlights the intersection of fine art and craft, demonstrating how everyday materials can be elevated into sophisticated visual statements. The tactile nature of her wall hangings invites viewers to engage with the art on a deeper level, appreciating the intricate stitching and the interplay of colors and shapes. Her success in quickly selling out her works underscores the demand for unique, handcrafted items that offer both aesthetic beauty and a connection to artisanal traditions. Her process involves a careful consideration of composition, color theory, and material choice, echoing the deliberate decisions made in graphic design. By applying these principles to textiles, Van Hoff creates pieces that are both visually dynamic and structurally sound. The wall hangings serve as focal points in any space, bringing a burst of color and a sense of thoughtful design to interiors. They represent a harmonious balance between structured design and the organic nature of fabric, offering a fresh perspective on how art can integrate into daily living. #EmilyVanHoff #TextileArt #Quilting #GraphicDesign #WallHangings #ModernCraft #FiberArt #ColorBlocking

The article highlights how interior designers are increasingly embracing eclecticism and individualism by incorporating vintage and antique decor into their projects to add character to homes. Decorating with art is presented as a classic and effective method to infuse personality, showcasing individual tastes and styles while adding color, pattern, and texture to a room. Emily Henderson, a prominent designer, recently shared her passion for vintage art on Instagram, revealing her collection of eleven pieces and offering insights on how to select and place art within a home. Henderson demonstrates that shopping secondhand for art can be a cost-effective yet impactful way to introduce unique character. Her collection includes a cubist-style painting in a kitchen nook and a small framed dog painting unconventionally placed on a bathroom window. This particular placement is highlighted as a clever strategy to accessorize an otherwise empty space and bring a pop of color. She also features a pair of flower still lifes, bought for only $75, which she hung one above the other, transforming a blank wall into an eye-catching display. These pieces are complemented by gold tarnished frames and a matching gold reading light, creating an antique-inspired setup. The article emphasizes that antique and flea markets are excellent sources for art. Henderson showcases a statement piece in her dining room and a scenic seascape above a chest of drawers in her hallway. A notable flea market find is an Expressionist painting depicting a woman's side profile, rendered in bright primary colors. Henderson invested in a gold frame to enhance its vibrancy, pairing it with an antique-style gold sconce to create a sophisticated and timeless display. Art is presented as a simple yet powerful tool for decorating with antiques, capable of elevating any empty surface. Still-life paintings, often simple in subject matter, are shown to convey a classic and high-end aesthetic. Henderson places another still-life painting on her kitchen countertop, infusing the area with color and warmth. Her ninth vintage piece, a geometric, cubist-style artwork, is positioned above her fireplace mantel, providing character and rustic charm to a living room, especially when contrasting with minimal white walls and neutral decor. Emily Henderson's approach to art placement is noted for its unconventionality, as she isn't afraid to utilize overlooked areas. A small painted landscape, set in an antique wood frame, is placed within her kitchen shelves. This charming addition brings warmth and character to the kitchen, elements that are often neglected in kitchen design. With a total cost of $80 for this framed picture, Henderson exemplifies how secondhand shopping can effectively refresh dull areas. Ultimately, Henderson’s collection serves as inspiration for adopting the vintage trend for 2025, demonstrating that an eclectic and charming space can be achieved even on a limited budget through thoughtful art acquisition and placement. #EmilyHenderson #VintageArt #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SecondhandFinds #ArtPlacement #EclecticStyle #AffordableDecor #FleaMarket

The article introduces Inner Child, a home decor brand founded by Michelle Pham, which specializes in colorful, handmade, maximalist decor. The author, Tori Polizzotto Jones, shares her personal journey from a minimalist aesthetic to an appreciation for maximalism, influenced by sentimental family heirlooms. This shift in personal style led her to discover Inner Child, a brand that resonates with her newfound love for vibrant and expressive home furnishings. Michelle Pham, the founder of Inner Child, explains her inspiration for starting the brand. She observed a gap in the U.S. market for accessible, handmade textiles and crafts, which are often found only through extensive travel. Her aim was to bring these unique, artisanal items to a broader audience. Inner Child's products are distinguished by their 100% handmade nature, encompassing fabrics, patterns, and textures. The brand offers a variety of home linens, including blockprint tablecloths, napkins, placemats, and table runners. Additionally, Inner Child has developed a sustainable practice by creating recycled paper goods from leftover cotton textile production. The brand's name, 'Inner Child,' reflects Pham's philosophy that joyful and whimsical decor should not be outgrown. She notes that while adult tastes often lean towards muted, minimalist palettes, children instinctively gravitate towards color and experimentation. Inner Child seeks to reintroduce this playful approach into adult homes, encouraging consumers to embrace delightful and colorful items. The brand continuously innovates, transforming new design ideas into stitched realities quickly to meet consumer desires for vibrant home aesthetics. Among Inner Child's bestsellers are the Ocean Wave Waste Bin, made from hand-marbled and block-printed recycled cotton papers. This collapsible, sustainably made bin serves both as a waste receptacle and a chic storage solution. Another popular item is the Araminta Toiletry Bag, available individually or in sets of three. These bags are designed for functionality, featuring four inner pockets and a wipeable plastic liner, with fabric hand-block printed by an eighth-generation artisan team. The Purple & Blue Checkered Reversible Sujani Quilt is another standout, crafted by one of only two remaining families globally practicing the Sujani weaving technique. These cotton-filled quilts take over 16 hours to handloom and offer a unique 'puff pillow' effect. Pham's inspiration stems from her childhood experiences, including reading extensively about crafts and textiles, and traveling widely in her twenties, which exposed her to diverse crafts and ways of living. Her mother, a talented seamstress, also instilled in her a deep appreciation for colors, patterns, and fabrics from an early age. Living in New York City further provides daily inspiration from fashion and people's choices. Pham also sheds light on the realities of running a small business with handmade products. She single-handedly manages all aspects of Inner Child, from design and production to warehousing, shipping, and marketing. This hands-on approach has given her comprehensive mastery over her business operations, from recognizing ideal shipping boxes to understanding fabric compositions and maintaining daily communication with artisans. Despite the immense workload, she finds the work highly rewarding, emphasizing that it is a constant, demanding endeavor rather than a typical nine-to-five job. The brand's core message is to promote the accessibility of handmade items and to encourage adults to embrace joyful and whimsical home decor that allows for self-expression and happiness, regardless of age. #HomeDecor #MaximalistStyle #HandmadeProducts #SmallBusiness #MichellePham #InnerChild #TextileArt #SustainableDesign #Entrepreneurship

Nidhi Kapur, the founder of Maiden Home, established the brand in 2017 to address a perceived gap in the modern home decor market. Her experience furnishing her first home revealed a prevalence of generic designs and subpar craftsmanship among large retailers. Leveraging her technology background, Kapur aimed to offer sophisticated yet affordably priced furnishings directly to consumers. Maiden Home sources its products from artisans in North Carolina, focusing on quality and distinctive design. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model enables the brand to maintain competitive pricing while delivering high-end aesthetics. In the summer of 2022, Maiden Home launched Tribeca House, a temporary pop-up experience in New York. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a tangible interaction with the brand's aesthetic and demonstrate how Maiden Home's curated approach could be integrated into their personal living spaces. The pop-up was situated in a two-story, 2,500-square-foot loft, offering ample space to showcase a selection of items from the brand's summer 2022 collection. The layout and presentation at Tribeca House were designed to inspire visitors and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary home styling. The featured pieces at Tribeca House included several key designs from the summer 2022 collection. Among these was the minimalist Mulberry ottoman, characterized by its clean lines and functional design, reflecting a blend of modern simplicity and practicality. Another highlight was the Kenmare chair, crafted from ash wood and upholstered in a white tweed fabric, emphasizing texture and natural materials. The Vestry nesting tables also garnered attention; this pair of tables featured asymmetrical forms and were constructed from domestically sourced red oak, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality materials and unique design elements. The pop-up aimed to illustrate the brand's 'collected home mindset,' encouraging customers to view furnishings as cohesive elements that contribute to a unified and sophisticated living environment. By presenting these items in a curated physical space, Maiden Home sought to bridge the gap between online browsing and the tactile experience of selecting home decor. The initiative reinforced the brand's dedication to providing accessible, high-quality modern furnishings that prioritize both design and craftsmanship. While Tribeca House was a temporary installation designed to engage customers and introduce new collections, Maiden Home's core philosophy emphasizes the enduring nature of its products. The brand's focus on timeless design, durable materials, and expert craftsmanship ensures that its furniture is intended for long-term use, contrasting with the fleeting trends often associated with mass-produced items. This commitment to longevity is a central tenet of Maiden Home's identity, promising pieces that will remain relevant and cherished in customers' homes for years to come. #MaidenHome #HomeDecor #NewYorkPopUp #ModernFurnishings #DirectToConsumer #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship

Shōtō, a modern Japanese izakaya located in Midtown Center, Washington D.C., is introduced as a new culinary and design landmark. The establishment, a project of the London-based global hospitality group that also manages Zuma, opened its doors for dinner service at 5 p.m. The design, spearheaded by Tokyo-based Studio Glit's Noriyoshi Muramatsu, marks his first venture in D.C. Muramatsu, known for Zuma's acclaimed interiors, has meticulously curated every detail of Shōtō, creating an atmosphere that balances luxury with a deep sense of Japanese aesthetics. Upon entering Shōtō, guests are greeted by thoughtful design elements, such as a lengthy, bronzed branch from an ancient Japanese forest serving as a door handle. The interior features an immaculate, wood-framed dining room and spa-like restrooms equipped with custom Le Labo black tea oil diffusers, demonstrating an "invisible touch" of luxury. The 155-seat restaurant showcases a symmetrically arranged sushi counter, a bar, and a Japanese robata grill, where various meats, fish, skewers, poultry, and produce are cooked over pressed Japanese white oak. The dining room's centerpiece is a massive, UFO-like sculpture made from lava stone sourced from an active Japanese volcano. This formation, comprising orange-sized stone chunks painstakingly hand-strung and suspended from the 25-foot ceiling, creates a dazzling shadow play on the floor as it is backlit, especially during sunset. This dramatic lava stone sculpture is complemented by other decor elements also sourced, assembled, or salvaged in Japan and transported to D.C. Shōtō aims to boast one of the largest Japanese whiskey selections on the East Coast, currently offering 40 rare types with a goal to expand to 100 as supply chains improve. These whiskeys are showcased like precious artifacts behind gold metal grates, greeting guests upon entry. The name "Shōtō," meaning "short sword" in Japanese, symbolizes the restaurant's commitment to accuracy and precision, evident in both its culinary techniques and design. The open kitchen and sushi counter offer diners a direct view of the meticulous work of Executive Sushi Chef Kwang Kim and Executive Chef Alessio Conti. The kitchen's textured tile backsplash features vertical rows of curved tiles, which are hand-molded and glazed casts of Japanese bamboo. Clay plates, handmade by a Japanese artist using a wood-fired ash technique, are neatly stacked on wooden shelves, further highlighting the artistic craftsmanship. The restaurant's walls and ceiling are designed with square wood boxes, creating a grid-like visual. Functional decorative elements include century-old parts of a rural Japanese aqueduct system repurposed as flower pots for cherry blossoms. Above the bar, rows of hand-blown glass bowls, crafted to resemble traditional Japanese tea kettles, are intended to hold Japanese spirits, sake, and shochu infused with fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables. These glass orbs are interspersed with gigantic sake barrels from Japanese breweries, now serving as floating ivory artwork. The bar also features a hand-carving ice station and a bonsai tree, serving house cocktails made exclusively with Japanese spirits. A wine and sake cellar, capable of storing up to 1,500 bottles, occupies an entire wall, with sommeliers using a ladder to retrieve selections, adding to the dining experience's theatricality. A private dining room at the back features a 45-seat rectangular table under a ceiling of wavy red fabric, providing an intimate setting while offering glimpses into the glassy cellar, ensuring a unique experience for every diner. Shōtō is located in the same Midtown Center complex as Philotimo, chef Nicholas Stefanelli's Greek restaurant, which opened the previous month. #JapaneseCuisine #RestaurantDesign #LuxuryDining #Izakaya #NoriyoshiMuramatsu #DCRestaurants #SushiBar #RobataGrill #JapaneseWhiskey

Acquiring art for one's home can be a deeply personal endeavor, expressing the homeowner's personality and the unique story of their living space. While traditional art acquisition was often limited to local stores or art galleries, the digital age has ushered in a plethora of online platforms, democratizing access to a vast array of art. This expansion of choice, however, can also lead to decision paralysis, making it challenging to navigate the extensive online art market. This guide curates seven distinguished online art retailers, each catering to specific preferences and needs, simplifying the process of discovering and purchasing wall art. Minted, for instance, stands out for its customizable prints by independent artists. Operating as a community-first marketplace since 2008, Minted hosts monthly challenges where design enthusiasts vote on submissions, ensuring that the curated collection resonates with popular taste. While this model guarantees a wide selection of decor-worthy art, it can also lead to the prevalence of certain trends. Minted offers extensive customization options for size, orientation, and color, alongside practical features like an augmented reality tool to visualize art on one's wall and free styling advice from experts. Its prints are numbered limited editions by artists from over 100 countries, though standard shipping can take up to ten days. For those new to art collecting, Uprise Art provides an accessible entry point to original contemporary art. It aims to demystify the traditional gallery experience by presenting artworks online, categorized by medium, curated collections, or artist profiles. The platform also offers free art advisors to guide new collectors. Chairish is highlighted as the premier destination for secondhand and vintage art, boasting an immense collection that is easily searchable by various criteria, including style, color, and even proximity for local pickup. This platform fosters direct negotiation between buyers and sellers and continuously updates its inventory. Tappan Collective is recommended for individuals seeking modern art that makes a striking statement. It showcases original and limited-edition works from artists across diverse mediums, with a focus on pieces that can serve as focal points for an entire room's design. The platform offers curated collections and guest curations by renowned tastemakers, along with personal art consultations. While its offerings are generally higher-priced due to their original and limited-edition nature, they represent an investment in the artists' careers. 20x200 operates under the motto "Art for everyone," specializing in museum-quality, limited-edition prints made with archival inks on cotton rag paper, each accompanied by a signed and numbered certificate of authenticity. It presents a broad spectrum of artists, from emerging talents to legendary figures, and features a unique "Browse by Mood" tool to help customers find art that aligns with their desired room ambiance. Artfully Walls is distinguished by its affordable prints and robust interactive tools designed for wall planning. It offers an extensive range of prints and provides inspiration for gallery walls, along with a "Wall Designer" feature that allows users to mock up art arrangements in a virtual room. Lastly, Everything But the House (EBTH) brings the excitement of estate sales online, offering a dynamic auction-based platform for unique vintage art finds, along with other collectibles. When choosing art, factors such as whether the artist is emerging or established, the medium of the art (painting, photography, sculpture, etc.), and whether the piece is an original, limited-edition reproduction, or general print run significantly impact price and value. Many online shops provide framing options, but custom framing services are also available. Proper styling involves experimenting with placement, considering eye-level hanging, and maintaining appropriate spacing above furniture. For renters, options like Command Strips or monkey hooks offer solutions for hanging art without extensive wall damage. Creating a gallery wall benefits from pre-planning by laying out pieces on the floor to finalize arrangements before hanging. Affordable art can also be sourced from thrift stores, antique shops, or by repurposing art books and engaging in DIY projects. Ultimately, the best art for any space is one that brings joy and enhances the home's aesthetic, with numerous online avenues available to suit diverse tastes and budgets. #WallArt #OnlineArt #HomeDecor #ArtCollecting #InteriorDesign #CustomizablePrints #VintageArt #ModernArt #LimitedEditionPrints

British artist Sophie Smallhorn, whose work explores the relationships between color, volume, and proportion, grew up immersed in a creative environment. Her parents were industrial and textile designers, and her Montessori education, with its use of brightly colored, precisely shaped wooden objects, fostered an early understanding of color, form, and dimension. This upbringing shaped her artistic approach, which is characterized by sophisticated geometric solids and a focus on color dynamics. Initially, Smallhorn pursued a degree in Wood, Metal, Ceramics, and Plastics at the University of Brighton, where she crafted sculptural furniture pieces that, despite their limited functionality, were primarily driven by color. She began creating assemblages from leftover materials for personal enjoyment, eventually selling them informally. Her acceptance of her work as fine art came only after a gallery explicitly presented it as sculpture, reflecting her background in design and making. Early career milestones included significant commissions from the avant-garde fashion brand Comme des Garçons, which provided opportunities for large-scale installations at its Tokyo flagship. These projects broadened her scope, leading to collaborations such as developing a 56-color palette for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium with Populous Architects, where exterior canvas banners in various hues marked spectator entrances. More recently, Smallhorn has ventured into textile design with Designtex, creating an upholstery pattern named Ribbon. This marks her first formal foray into textiles, a field her mother worked in, and one Smallhorn initially resisted due to her discomfort with digital design processes and the overwhelming possibilities of digital printing. However, a clear vision from Designtex's executive design director, Sara Balderi, during their renewed collaboration post-COVID, made the digital process manageable and even a revelation. The inspiration for the Ribbon motif originated from an enameled snuff box with an undulating ribbon, which Smallhorn encountered at the Victoria and Albert Museum. She developed the idea by physically manipulating collage and colored acetates, twisting and folding them, before translating these physical experiments into a digital layout for pattern repeat, palette, and scale. The initial design, which started smaller, evolved into a bold, graphic, and dynamic pattern with a theatrical quality, largely influenced by Designtex. The ribbon on the fabric is not solid but composed of parallel lines, a deliberate choice by Smallhorn to achieve an effect similar to screen printing, where overlapping transparent colors create a third hue, adding a playful and energizing graphic element. A solid version of this pattern, called Flat Ribbon, is available as a customizable wallcovering through Designtex’s Digital Studio website. Smallhorn notes a significant crossover between her two-dimensional prints and her three-dimensional sculptures and installations, as both involve compositions of hard-edged formal shapes. Screen printing serves as a rapid and playful method for developing ideas, allowing for serendipitous color scenarios that often inform her sculptural pieces. While her three-dimensional work does not allow for layering transparent colors, the print table mimics sketching, providing inspiration for new color combinations. She uses the same acrylic paint for both prints and assemblages, viewing the latter as vehicles for exploring and holding a palette. Smallhorn emphasizes the intuitive nature of her color decisions, often repainting pieces multiple times to achieve a desired equilibrium among what she describes as 'easy' and 'less easy' or 'awkward' and 'less awkward' colors, without relying on a predefined system. Her collaborations with brands like Comme des Garçons and COS exemplify her ability to bridge fine art and commercial design. For COS, she created window displays for five global stores, featuring large, overgrown stacks of shapes designed to complement product displays. This dual engagement with both artistic and commercial realms is a comfortable space for Smallhorn, who appreciates working with brands that share a similar sensibility toward color and design. Her career demonstrates a consistent exploration of color, form, and proportion across various mediums, continually seeking synergistic relationships in her chromatic work. #SophieSmallhorn #ArtistInterview #ColorDesign #Sculpture #TextileDesign #InteriorArt #DesigntexCollaboration #GeometricForms #CreativeProcess

Dana Harel, a San Francisco-based Israeli designer, has launched her inaugural lighting collection under her studio, White Dirt. Harel's career trajectory showcases a diverse artistic exploration, starting with architecture and extending into ceramics and line art before her current venture into luminaires. The new collection, dubbed "Ora," comprises three tented table lamps—Ora I, II, and III—and a suspended, trapeze-like floor lamp, Ora IV. These pieces draw inspiration from Harel’s existing body of work, particularly her vases and vessels, which inform their hand-carved sculptural aesthetic. The lamps are crafted using a combination of gypsum cement, muslin, and brass, materials that contribute to their unique visual and tactile qualities. The design intentionally evokes the imagery of draped wedding gowns, suggesting moments of concealed intimacy and exploring the delicate balance between revealing and hiding forms. This interplay of materials and forms allows the collection to convey a sense of fluidity and softness, a departure from more rigid sculptural traditions. Harel describes the process of working with fabric—folding, pleating, and draping—as a refreshing experience, contrasting with her previous work that often involved tools like chisels and hammers. This shift towards softer, more pliable materials allowed her to experiment with light in a new way, focusing on how textiles interact with illumination to create ambiance and shape. The collection's design ethos embraces a certain spontaneity, reflecting Harel’s approach to her creative process. Each piece in the Ora collection stands as a testament to her evolving artistic language and her ability to translate diverse inspirations into functional art. A notable and unconventional source of inspiration for Harel was a scene from the HBO series *Succession*, where characters Tom Wambsgans and Cousin Greg consume a rare delicacy with napkins tented over their heads. This seemingly obscure reference underscores Harel's willingness to draw from unexpected cultural moments, transforming them into artistic concepts. The designer interprets this act of "masking shame" or "heightening pleasure" as a metaphor for the lamps' ability to create intimate, almost cloistered, environments through their draped forms. The sculptural swagger of the lamps is deeply rooted in these varied influences, bridging architectural precision with textile softness and cultural anecdotes. The collection as a whole is an exploration of form, light, and material, reflecting Harel's multidisciplinary background and her continuous quest for new creative expressions. #DanaHarel #LightingCollection #SculpturalLighting #InteriorDesign #WhiteDirtStudio #ProductDesign #TextileArt #ContemporaryDesign

Emily Van Hoff, an artist renowned for her textile work, explores the potential of quilts beyond traditional two-dimensional forms, creating pieces that possess significant visual weight and object-like qualities. Her work encompasses a variety of textile forms, including geometric tapestries, faceted weavings, and sculptural constructions. Van Hoff emphasizes her preference for quilts that feel substantial and robust, distinguishing them from flat, decorative pieces. She achieves this by continuously experimenting with different methods to infuse her creations with a chunky, three-dimensional presence. Van Hoff's artistic process frequently involves revisiting and reinterpreting her initial sketches and repurposing offcuts from previous projects. This approach allows her to construct new works by meticulously combining diverse textures, colors, and arrangements. A notable example of her recent experimental endeavors is a piece composed of three interlocking chain links. This particular artwork offers versatility in display, as its components can be rearranged to reveal various orientations, showcasing a dynamic interplay of angles and color combinations. She views this chain link design as an evolution of her existing wall hangings, which often feature overlapping and interwoven elements, further pushing the boundaries of textile art. In addition to her sculptural works, Van Hoff has ventured into commercial design with a new line of quilting fabric named 'Groove,' developed for Moda Fabrics. This collection, set to be released in May of the following year, embodies her characteristic vibrant color palette and incorporates playful, sinuous motifs. Van Hoff reflects on her background in graphic design and her long-standing passion for textile design, highlighting her prior experience working in a fabric shop during high school. She describes the opportunity to design her own fabric line as a dream realized, underscoring her deep connection to the medium. The article showcases several of Van Hoff's creations, including a geometric wall hanging with woven fabric panels and colorful facets, a square quilt with a bright orange and pink circle at its center framed by geometric borders, and a sculptural chain link piece perched on a wooden base. Other illustrations feature a quilted wall hanging in orange and yellow with curving geometry, a loosely tied knot-like quilted wall-hanging with bright color facets, and an array of small, colorful quilted swatches adhered to paper. The collection also includes soft, quilted shapes stacked on a wooden table, a display rack with multiple geometric quilted wall hangings, and a series of colorful, geometric fabric designs presented in strips. These images collectively demonstrate her innovative use of textiles to create visually engaging and structurally complex art. #EmilyVanHoff #Quilts #TextileArt #SculpturalQuilts #DimensionalArt #FabricDesign #Craft #GeometricDesigns #ModernQuilting

This article serves as a comprehensive guide to finding affordable art online, presenting 35 different platforms where individuals can purchase wall art to enhance their home decor. The platforms cater to a wide range of tastes, from mass-produced prints and movie posters to unique, artist-designed pieces and custom artwork. The guide begins with popular e-commerce giants like Amazon and Target, highlighting their extensive selections that include various styles and mediums such as framed art, canvases, posters, and sculptural wall art. Amazon is noted for its vast array of choices, from movie posters to woven tapestries, while Target offers art that seamlessly integrates with diverse interior design styles, including a dedicated section for children's art. Society6 stands out as a marketplace for independent artists, offering their designs on multiple home decor items beyond just wall hangings, such as bedspreads and curtains. Desenio specializes in Scandinavian-inspired wall art, providing posters, prints, canvases, and even pre-curated gallery walls. More curated selections are found at Anthropologie, known for its trendy yet timeless framed art and tapestries, and Great Big Canvas, which prints high-quality art and photography on various materials, organizing its inventory into popular decor trends and curator's selections, alongside a large collection of movie posters. Redbubble is another marketplace for original art, allowing artists to sell digital files printed on demand, often featuring pop culture themes. Rifle Paper Co. offers whimsical, vibrant prints with hand-painted florals, blending vintage charm with modern aesthetics, and has recently introduced woven wall art. For unique and emerging artists, 20x200 provides a carefully curated collection of affordable, limited-edition, museum-quality prints. Art.com boasts millions of prints and offers extensive framing options across all genres and aesthetics. West Elm focuses on neutral art designed to complement existing furniture and decor, enhancing the overall home aesthetic rather than dominating it. AllModern caters to contemporary interiors with over 1,200 modern art pieces. Artifact Uprising is ideal for those looking to print and frame personal photos with high-quality services, including a gallery wall design service. Minted supports independent artists, offering unique and sometimes limited-edition prints. Etsy is highlighted for its custom artwork, portraits, and original prints, many available as digital downloads for personalized printing. Artfinder serves as a marketplace for original, affordable art from independent artists globally, featuring a section for art under $100. Lumas specializes in high-quality photography prints, with a significant collection available for under $250. National Park Posters offers retro-designed, eco-friendly posters celebrating America's national parks. Helm + Oar provides effortlessly cool photography prints in various sizes and frame options. Big Wall Decor caters to large-scale art needs, with a unique assembly method involving fabric prints stretched onto frames. Shutter & Frame offers aspirational outdoor photographs with multiple frame and size choices, while Eye Buy Art presents a small but curated selection of museum-quality contemporary prints. Artismore allows customers to select a painting for an artist to recreate, offering bright and optimistic pieces. Saatchi Art is an online gallery connecting new artists with a global market, featuring a page for original works under $500. Fine Art America is a large marketplace with millions of products from numerous artists and brands. iCanvas curates a selection of canvas art prints for diverse styles. Chairish offers a curated selection of mostly vintage art, with a section for pieces under $400. Urban Outfitters provides quirky prints featuring bands, movies, and artist designs. World Market offers a range of wall art from textured pieces to landscapes. Kirkland's Home provides art for various styles, from farmhouse to coastal. MoMA Design Store is a source for high-quality art posters from the renowned museum. Fy! is a platform for graphic designers to sell unique wall art. Live Oak Print specializes in whimsical wall prints and calendars. Finally, Juniper Print Shop emphasizes filling empty walls with a wide selection of gorgeous original art prints. #AffordableArt #OnlineShopping #HomeDecor #WallArt #InteriorDesign #ArtMarketplace #IndependentArtists #FramedPrints #CanvasArt