LARS BOLANDER

Lars Bolander is a name synonymous with Swedish Style and upscale, sophisticated interiors.

Te Neues has just published a large coffee table volume illustrating his work. With over 174 gorgeous photos, it's a real visual feast. I loved it that the book covered more than just his work but also included photos of him as a young man, as well as some very fun personal photos with his beautiful wife, family and friends.

Personally, I like to get to know the person behind the work a little, too.  Far too many design books are just stuffy catalogues of a designer's work that, while featuring beautiful photos, may come off as slightly dry and boring.  This book is heavy on the visual and lighter on the text - just the way I like it!

In this book, Lars shares not only some of his own homes, but those of clients worldwide as well.

He introduces us to artists and craftspeople who have both inspired and influenced his work, such as master craftsman (and Royal Family member) David Linley.

Lars' work straddles the line between real sophistication and laid-back comfort. What strikes me is how his work is all about layered patina, varied elements and true warmth. There's nothing of the generic showroom, tasteless ostentatious glitz, or one-dimensional cookie cutter design that is so prevalent nowadays.

Swedish style is something Lars is well known for, but his work encompasses so much more than any single "look". Be sure to get your hands on this book, it will educate you and leave you with a great feeling and a lot of inspiration for your own decor! Find it here.

Wishing you all the very best in 2013. I hope and pray it will be a year of peace, joy and growth for all of us!

Happy New Year!!

CLASSICAL CHINESE FURNITURE

For those of you who appreciate Oriental design and Chinoiserie, you'd enjoy checking out this new book from Vendome that catalogues rare and beautiful pieces of Chinese furniture from the 16th-18th centuries.

The background information is fascinating - author Marcus Flacks covers details like joinery, types of wood (many of which I'd never heard of before), lacquers and Chinese aesthetics.

This sloped cabinet is about 400 years old! It's amazing how these pieces are so "modern" in their style.

Classics are never dated and great bones never lose their appeal to the eye.

The caning and joinery alone on some of these pieces is astounding. To think these were made by skilled craftsmen so long ago with such quality and attention to detail that they have stood the test of time and influenced current Western design so heavily is quite impressive.

Apart from the subject matter alone, I love the clean design of the book and how its' uncluttered and concise format allows you to absorb both the informative text and the artistic delight without the distraction of visual "busyness".

You can find Classical Chinese Furniture here.

BEAUTIFUL FLOORS

To me, there's nothing that can compare with the beauty and warmth that wood floors provide. 

They are a timeless foundation for great interior spaces and look great in both contemporary and more traditional settings. Wood is much easier on the body and a far lower impact than tile or stone floors and a favorite of interior designers and architects. Anything and everything that drops on them doesn't automatically shatter in a thousand pieces. Wood floors are much safer for babies and children as well. If you're in the market for some new flooring or rugs, please take a look here.

COASTAL CHRISTMAS

Since it's now Christmas Eve and I imagine that you might be busy celebrating, I wanted to wish you a wonderful Christmas full of peace and special moments cherishing what really matters in life. I am thankful to be with loved ones, remembering the birth of my Savior and thanking God for the gift of His Son and how profoundly that gift has the power to transform my daily life, my ultimate purpose for living and hope for the future in this troubled world and these uncertain times. 

I just wanted to share one of my favorite Christmas songs with you.

I am also re-posting just a few photos of my sister's home here in Florida dressed up for Christmas dinner last year.  She lives with her husband on the Intracoastal Waterway and enjoys celebrating in coastal style with plenty of shells, coral, sunshine and the colors of the water. 

Merry Christmas from me to you!

Thanks to my dear readers for all of your support throughout the year and may you have a blessed holiday season, no matter what you may be celebrating.

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTMAS

I'd like to say a huge congratulations to my blogger friend/colleague/customer Elizabeth who has just celebrated her 100th post and has a darling home in Australia that she shares with her little daughter Alice (who made the charming Christmas garland above). She created Squeak &Squirrel and has a great eye and creative touch for decor and much more. It was fun to see one of my "Flamingo" giclee prints she had propped on her mantel. Please stop by and follow her HERE if you get the chance!

Have a festive weekend!

HAVE COFFEE, NEED TABLE?

There are a few furniture staples that most everyone needs and has. Pieces like a bed, desk, dresser, sofa and tables - kitchen tables, dining tables, occasional tables (what does that really mean?) Let's not forget the classic, multi-functional coffee table. It's not just for coffee anymore, folks....I mean this table is a workhorse in the living area. It's good for everything from putting your feet up, to eating in front of the TV, as an impromptu kids art table, displaying, what else but "coffee table" books and a myriad of other functions, depending on how formal or informal your lifestyle may be. I happen to like a piece that is well made, resilient, attractive, not too precious or ornate, yet not lacking style. Something just like this coffee table from Fairway Furniture would do nicely, I think. What is your opinion? How do you like your coffee (tables)??

FRENCH ANTIQUES & NEEDLEPOINT

Christmas is only 1 week from today, as I am sure you're well aware.

If you're still looking for some great gifts, consider stopping by my AnnechovieVintage etsy shop for French antique plates OR Art Needlepoint to find my designs for needlepoint lovers.

FREE DOMESTIC SHIPPING THIS WKND!

Check out my Etsy shop (lots of new originals!) this weekend, find a special gift for someone and get free shipping within the U.S.

Just type in FREESHIP at checkout.

Have a terrific weekend!!

NEW ANNECHOVIE PAINTINGS FOR GIFT-GIVING!!

Many new originals are now for sale in time for Christmas!

This painting, "Lanikai Reef" is for sale in my shop. This work and many others were inspired by my recent stay in Hawaii. More to come as well.....

Original acrylic on paper painting of black Hermes bag  SOLD

"ARTichokes" - original acrylic on canvas SOLD

"Hypoluxo" - original acrylic on board with painted edges SOLD

"Chanel Coco" - original gouache/ink/acrylic painting - matted and framed SOLD

"Chanel Chance" - original gouache/ink/acrylic painting - matted and framed

"Waimea" - original acrylic on board with painted edges

all of these original paintings are available for sale HERE and will ship in time for Christmas to locations in the US if you hop on it now!!

I HOPE THAT YOU HAVE A FESTIVE WEEKEND!!

STYLE IN UNEXPECTED PLACES

I know that garage doors are not often a hot subject of design blogs, but when you think about it, they are a completely necessary and functional part of everyday life. Not only do the aesthetics matter, especially to the the design-savvy homeowner, but the quality of the mechanical apparatus as well. What good does a garage door do you if it isn't reliable and easy to use on a daily basis?  Gone are the days of the purely functional and utilitarian, you'd be surprised at the options available nowadays that have the bases covered with both beauty and functionality. Check out these great doors at Garaga 

THE BED THAT MULTI-TASKS

They say that you spend a third of your life in bed, and if that is so, then why not make an investment in a bed you really love? One that is not only comfortable, but beautiful and functional as well. I have long been a fan of upholstered beds, and while I don't own one at the moment, something like one
of these stylish numbers would fit the bill perfectly. Firstly, it looks like a proper piece of furniture, the upholstered surface makes it seem extra plush,  and you certainly wouldn't need a bed skirt. An added plus is that I couldn't bruise my shins on the skirting boards getting in or out. That's more than I can say for my current bed - ouch. Additionally, having a huge hidden storage compartment underneath is a big plus. 

It's so "of the moment" design-wise.

What about you? Do you prefer a bed with soft edges or something more linear and hard?

C. BELL SPECTACULAR FINDS

Be sure to check Annechovie sponsor C. Bell of Palm Beach for the latest in classy and eclectic furnishings for your home!  Perhaps you need a piece to add a little extra sparkle in your home for Holiday guests?

They are always getting new items in and it's a great idea to check in often HERE so you don't miss a thing!