Often the centerpiece at any party is the punch bowl that adorns the table full of refreshments and snacks. It's funny to me how often I attend parties and see a punch bowl where people are gathering near and catching up in conversation. You would think that at certain ages, this fruity concoction would lose its appeal, however that does not seem to be the case. Kids obviously love punch and revel in having their lips turn a different shade of color. Even guests that are enjoying other beverages will often sneak a cup of punch just to sample it as well as freshen up their pallette.
Glass punch bowls are timeless pieces for any party. Another decorating favorite is a nice pewter or stainless steel piece. Sterling silver is high maintenance that is quick to tarnish. The stainless steel or pewter look accomplishes the same result as silver and yet removes the trouble of cleaning and polishing. Besides there is already enough cleaning that has to be done before and after the party!
Here are two more great ideas for the often forgotten magazine rack. In a previous post I showed you a set that would really add a cool look to a modern environment, and these will also. The Flex has a rather industrial look with its chromed steel and slate leather but also a simple style that is timeless. Available from Jensen-Lewis for $139 16''w x 16''d x 22''h. The Sprung from designer Michael Sodeau is also very simple and has a springy curved metal case and boxed metal leg structure. The Sprung is available in white, red, royal blue, and green from Bonluxat. Made by Liv'it 40x30x32 cm
Even the most basic addition to your home can make it more unique, revealing some thing about your personality. As I have said many times, decorative accessories can really make the difference in a great looking home. Check out these two very different, but nice looking magazine rack options that will house or display your latest periodicals. The Gus wall mounted magazine rack has a vertical "barely there" but functional place to display your magazines. This stainless steel structure offers a very clean and modern look and measures 13x59 for $295.00 available from Artafax. The Mela from designer Anna Buechin has a much more classic look, and features a matte exterior and high gloss interior with a pedestal base. The Mela is a little better at hiding magazines but keeps them up and within reach. Available in Black/Ivory as shown for $63.00 from Umbra.14.25 x 9.75 x 15.5" (36 x 25 x 40 cm)
Today you hear a lot about "green" home furnishings and so much more will be produced in the years to come. Well you can't get much more natural than area rugs made from quality hides. The Pure Company is based in California but has its production done in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Their concept is to combine all natural materials, careful craftsmanship, and high quality hides for a simple yet chic look. Their quality control focuses on selecting each hide individually for softness and markings for an outstanding final product. Argentina has been a world leader in leather products for hundreds of years and Pure believes" that the old-world techniques of yesterday are what make our rugs the finest available today". I have always felt that decorative accessories are a great way to add a touch of personality to your décor, and the Pure area rugs and hides will do just that. Their complete collection is extensive and includes a variety of modern colors and prints as well as traditional markings.
Here is sophisticated looking floor tile from Artistic Tiles perfect for a new home or remodeling an existing residence. These round or square 24" or 36" stone medallions (Medaglione Italiani Reale) are reminiscent of the European styles you may see in a grand Italian palace. The medallions can be combined with a wide variety of ceramic tiles for a splash of character in foyers or staggered in large rooms. New strengthening technology has allowed these once inaccessible and very rare brecciated stones to be cut into extraordinary shapes with intricate detail. In addition to these floor tiles, Artistic Tiles has a full line of river stones, ceramic, glass, and porcelain floor and wall tile with a truly artistic and classy flair.
