If you are looking for something a bit more exotic try looking at Novica. Novica is a website that works in association with National Geographic. Their mission is to connect artisans from around the world to other people in the world that may be looking for artisan crafted items. It is great how they have been able to create a marketplace for artisans that may not have been able to sell their creations in their native country.Novica offers a wide range of goods created by many artists. I particularly enjoyed reading some of the artist bios to learn about their history and what fuels their passion for making art. Prices for the products are very reasonable.
I have a true respect for artisans that can take natural elements and transform them into beautiful works of art. Stone Forest has created unparalleled hand carved Japanese and contemporary sculptures and water fountains since 1989. They use a myriad of stones from granite, marble and travertine which gives their work structural integrity that man made materials cannot provide. Each piece is carved with hammer and chisel and bears the character of the rock as well as the inspiration of the stonecutter. The presence of this timeless beauty gives your home or garden the hint of eternity. Stone Forest specializes in sinks, fountains, furniture, bath tubs, sculptures, and table ware. Equally impressive are the hammered bronze and stainless items that have an obvious hand made character with hammer marks, solder points, and minor oxidation suggesting old world craftsmanship.
Here is a great way to add a beautiful natural stone look to any area of your home or office. The Stratastone mosaic tiles are hand made and perfect for bathroom, kitchens, floors, and pool areas. The sheets are able to be cut to any size and even curved for wrap around applications. Even driveways are no problem and they won't hurt your feet as they are smooth enough to walk on with without shoes. The tiles are available in many colors and shapes from flat to rounded and very light to black, so finding the right one for any décor should not be a problem. Also durability is not a concern as the stones a firmly bonded to a steel mesh and ready for placement. If you prefer a shiny wet look a clear coat can be applied but they are only sold in their natural state.
A traditional ceiling fan has a long metal rod that attaches the fan motor to the base which is affixed to the ceiling. You really need a fairly high ceiling to carry off this look without your guests feeling closed in above their heads. There is another category of ceiling fans called hugger or low profile which are designed to be hung in shorter ceilings. Hugger ceiling fans may have no metal rod and connect directly into the base. There is a short metal rod option as well. The great news is that these ceiling fans can be installed in shorter height ceilings. The summer heat can be stifling and the costs of energy continue to increase so it may be worth a look at low profile ceiling fans.
I know most of our articles are on furniture but once in a while I have to throw in some accessories and other acoutrements. Here is a really great bath tub from Kohler that will surely make the relaxing times more enjoyable. The extra deep Sok Overflowing Tub allows you to fully submerge as the rhythm of the flowing water creates a nice smooth tranquil sound. A push of a button controls the millions of tiny bubbles that cling to your body and add a soothing feel. The water that continuously flows over all side is captured in the built in channel and recirculated into the bath. There are several faucet options from a wall mount to a ceiling version that drops the water from above for a very unique addition.
