Houston Shopping

I was out the other day doing a little bit of shopping (for a client, not me) and thought I would take a few photos of some great Houston shops. Unfortunately, I didn't have my better camera, so I make not have the best pictures. I even forgot to take the date off on some of these pictures...(how embarrassing).

First I dropped by Area. Located near Rice Village, they sit in the middle of one of Houston's best shopping locations. I love this store because it fits the definition of Eclectic in every way (you know how much I like that!) I am crazy about the set of Paris maps. They are unbelievable. I wanted these for a client of mine, but they are a little too large. If any one has a large home with some blank walls, call me.

I am always mesmerized by shiny and glittery things like the collection of bottles and the small mirror top tables.

Even, the store's matchbooks are wonderfully styled. They remind me of candies, sitting in this fabulous bowl. By the way, you never know; if while shopping at Area you might run into Joni of Cote de Texas. I know this is a place she really likes. Now, Area doesn't have a website, but if you are in Houston, you can find them at 5600 Kirby Dr.

Next, I drove over to Twenty Six Twenty. This is one of those shops, where you have to be "In the know" to find. In fact, I lived in an apartment for about a year that was only two blocks away, and never saw the store. But, when you do see it, be prepared for a real treat. From the outside this shop can seem a little unassuming, but from the inside, it is a very charming place.

Twenty Six Twenty (named so, because of its address), is actually a co-op. Several designers set up lovely booths that have a related theme, but also show their own personalities. I especially like to go in and look for artwork, because they always have very interesting pieces. I have never had the opportunity to travel to France, but this is how I picture it.

Well, finally I hopped over to a store that is completely different than the other two, called High Fashion Home. I say this store is different, because it is a HUGE fabric store that carries some great modern furniture.

I love that they usually carry really interesting organic furnishings. Also, they are often very large in scale, which is not always easy to find. Actually, you can find furnishings and fabrics that fit almost any design style,I'm a little disappointed that these pictures don't really capture the large scale of these displays:( This place is so much fun, I love wondering around looking at their book collection, tons of fabrics (four stories worth) and great displays. High Fashion even has a blog!Well, that's all the shopping for now, but I will write more about my shopping trips later. ( And I will carry my better camera)

A Little bit of Satisfaction-Sheila Bridges on Design Sponge

How is this for a coincidence? Right after my gripe session about "Trading Spaces", and wishing for better design on televion; I find Sheila Bridges on Design Sponge.
Sheila had one of the few programs that really portrayed what good design can be. She gives a great interview on D.S., and come to find out she has a blog of her own, called The Nestmaker.

Sheila's blog is streamlined and smart. She answers questions from readers, invites guest bloggers, has a monthly newsletter, and even has informative videos. Although, television has become a poor source for the latest in design, we have great blogs look to for inspiration. Maybe, I should watch less t.v.

Speaking of great designers, check out Paloma's article about her husband's encounter with Nate Berkus!!! Wow!

Will Trading Spaces Ever Die?

Excuse me while I gripe a bit.I am not one to complain too often, but someone has to point out this television tragedy. As I was watching a program on TLC the other day, I was horrified to see a commercial, for the revamping of Trading Spaces. Their motto basically says, Remember years ago, when people liked this show, and it was hosted by Paige Davis? Well, she's back! Oh, and now ex spouses, and kids and parents will trade rooms. What! I got an immediate knot in my stomach. This show stopped being, even somewhat interesting years ago.
I admit that when Trading Spaces first aired, I though it was fun and creative because the designers had such a novel approach. Unfortunately, the program quickly took a turn for the worst. My personal belief is that this program and others like it are almost completely responsible for poorly designed homes in America. First of all, the idea that any type of design can be done for $1000.00, $500.00, or whatever is absolutely ridiculous. These programs can claim that is all they spend, but just the amount of labor it takes to pull off that kind of work, would blow their budgets out of the water. There have been times I've watched these programs, and known for a fact that what they claim an item costs, is not anywhere close to reality.
The thing that bothers me the most, is not the absurd budgets, but the absolutely HORRIBLE design. The results of these "makeovers", often make me shudder. I find myself thinking that the room looked better before the makeover.
I'm sure some of you are thinking..."Well, if you don't like the programs; don't watch them!" I agree with this statement, but the problem is, how many people out there don't realize just how bad this design is? They think that if they see it on t.v. it must be good.
Wouldn't it be wonderful, if "Design" shows were hosted by actual designers, and not just t.v. personalities? Like, whatever happened to Kenneth Brown's show on HGTV, or Sheila Bridges' program on Fine Living? Their programs were very interesting, and their designs were great.

What if Apartment Therapy, produced a television show? That would be so cool, Or maybe; Domino Magazine. Talk about two sources that have their finger on the pulse of modern design, never mind their huge built-in following. What about a reality show based on the life of Kelly Wearstler? Imagine, following the style icon as she works on her amazing projects, while looking as fabulous as she does. I would kill to watch that! If there are any t.v. execs. reading this, here are a few suggestions from me.

I realize that not many designers can uproot their lives and businesses, to make a television program, but it would be nice if producers could offer a little more than goofy design for tiny budgets. Perhaps, I am only dreaming; but there is nothing wrong with that. I guess for now I wait for the few weeks a year when Top Design, airs.
O.K. now that I have that out of my system, I will go back to being my more positive self :)

Great Perspective-Julia Fullerton-Batten

I love the work of Julia Fullerton-Batten. Her series "Teenage Stories" has giant girls, roaming around, completely unaware of their surroundings. The photos first remind me of Alice in Wonderland, but also of all the snobby girls we all went to school with, who could not be bothered by other peoples' affairs.

Julia's website displays her vast variety of work. I am struck by the beautiful ads for Ligne Roset, they still keep her unusual play on perspective.

(Article found via Josh Spear)

When Blogs Collide.

Wow, what a day! I'm so excited to show these photos of my "power" lunch with three fellow Houston bloggers, Courtney (Inside the loop), Joni (Cote de Texas), and Paloma (La Dolce Vita). I am on the right side, wearing white...have I ever mentioned how much I HATE pictures of myself?

(Joni on the left and Courtney on the right)

Its fascinating to see how much we all have in common, and how much we don't. Especially, Joni and I, with our polar opposite aesthetic. But, I love Joni's frankness and ability to speak her mind. (Also she knows a lot of juicy gossip about a few other blogs). Courtney is very vivacious, and we almost always like the same restaurants, shops, cars...etc. And Courtney, I still say we need to make an Installations trip together.

(Paloma)

Paloma is such a sweetheart and very serious about being a teacher. Don't ever tell her you think learning Spanish is unnecessary! I would also like to give Paloma and Joni the prize for having the best photo opp. poses. You two really know your "angles"! I could use some lessons.

After we ate; the cameras flew out at lightning speed. By the way, did any one notice the man in the background; he was very fascinated by our lively exchange. I learned a lot from these ladies, including how to make my photos larger (which I will be trying soon), and that I need to push myself to include more personal stories on my blog. So, in keeping with this idea, I am including a picture of my son Liam, for anyone who didn't see the prior pictures of him and will admit that I am a very proud mommy. I will try to divulge more, but be patient with me.

Lets do this again, ladies!

Phorm Interiors

Before the weekend begins, I want to show the work of Australian designers Ian Wrightson and Steven Stewart of Phorm Interiors. I first discovered their blog Phorm Design Life and was fascinated with their work. We have exchanged a couple of emails, and can say they are very gracious, besides being talented.

I would love to spend an afternoon at this colorful cafe.

Anyone who knows me can probably guess why I am so attracted to this home...texture and juxtaposition of objects. Great job guys!

One More Thing!

Psapp-Hi

Here is some music, I've been listening to constantly. This reminds me, I've been considering adding a music play list to my blog, but I wonder if it really is a good idea. I mean, I love music...but does everyone want to hear what I like? Sometimes, I go to blogs with music, and my first thought is " I don't want to hear that!" If you have a strong opinion on this, let me know...or even if all you have is an inclination.

Have a nice weekend!