I Love Lamp

Nothing creates a cozy atmosphere like some good lamp light.  It was pretty much blasphemy to use ceiling light in my house growing up.  Aside from the ambience they give off, lamps are also a great, and very practical, accessory.  Let's look at some great lamps that may be just what your home needs...

Let's start with floor lamps, a great solution if you don't have enough room for an end table.  The arced lamps are also great reading lights.  

This first lamp is a great mix of feminine and industrial.  

These next two come from West Elm, a great retailer for some affordable, yet super cool lighting.  West Elm does a great job catering to today's young professionals.

This last floor lamp has a great shape, and I love the wood base.  Modern, yet warm.

Now let's move on to table lamps....oh the possibilities are endless...

These first two are from Arteriors, probably my first stop when hunting for lighting.  I've used this first one, and the stone is beautiful in person.

These next lamps are beautiful mercury glass mixed with a linen/burlap looking shade.  Great combo!

Lastly, let's look at some task lights.  A great company to start your search would be Herman Miller.

This is a great, out of the way light called The Flute.

This next photo of clamp lights from Pottery Barn would be great in a craft room.

We are ending with my favorite desk light, and it's from Target! So pretty!

Photo Credits:  http://www.lampsplus.com/products/calyx-cognac-glass-industrial-bronze-floor-lamp__5y578.html, http://tommyandellie.com/?p=2449, http://www.unexpectedelegance.com/projects

Creating Custom Furniture

Do you have an empty wall that is screaming for a console but just don't know what to get?  While many retailers have great options, if you can't find what your heart desires, consider getting a piece custom made.  We do this more often than not for clients, whether it be because we can't find the right size, or a certain finish, custom furniture is a great alternative!  When working with a designer, you will get a better price than just walking in off the street, but the prices aren't as scary as you may think, and they quality is usually far more superior than a retail store.  Plus you are supporting local craftsman, win win right?  

Let's talk about some of the elements to your custom furniture piece to really make it your own.  

Wood Species

Walnut: my favorite species! Walnut is characterized by its beautiful cathedralling and warm caramel color.  Not a very hard wood, so make your to consider that!  Character grade has more knots and is lesser priced than select grade walnut.

Alder is often used because it is fairly inexpensive and accepts stain very well.  Knotty alder is more rustic and busy with knots, clear alder gives a more uniform look.

The unique grain pattern of Curly Maple, also known as Tiger Maple, offers beautiful patterns which makes it an ideal choice for distinctive furniture pieces.  This wood is also strong, heavy and hard.

Teak is a great option is you like a more modern, contemporary look because of its straight grain.  It has a warm color and is very durable.

We can talk later about hardware and legs in a part 2 post of Creating Custom Furniture.

Photo Credits: http://takeovertime.tumblr.com/post/41687728895/rypen-modern-credenza-in-solid-natural-walnut, 

http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/joystyle-interior/item/wonder-dk150-b-al/, http://www.custommade.com/modern-coffee-table-bench-in-curly-maple-cherry/by/josephmurphy, http://www.creamandchrome.co.uk/product/vintage-1950s-daybed/,