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Monday, December 27, 2010
On a Mission: interior designer Michelle Homme takes us inside her favorite shops in the Mission
Michelle Homme, owner of Homme (2354 Polk St.; 415/400-4299) in Russian Hill, definitely has a good eye. After all, the UC Berkeley grad and interior designer (who has worked for design firms such as Steven Volpe and served as design director for interiors for the golf club at the Resort at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach) regularly scours the Alameda Point Antiques and Collectibles Fair, the Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market, and estate sales for rare and unique goods for her store and her clients. "I work based on my intuition and I try to avoid the 'supposed-to objects'," says the Southern California native who is most influenced by the classic rooms of designer David Hicks for interiors and Rose Cumming for her shop. "I love her irreverence of having bolts of fabric everywhere in her shop in New York, but for my store, I'm not buying with anyone in mind, I just buy what I like, and I am not limiting myself to one period, mood or influence."
We asked Homme, who is currently working on a Parisian-inspired apartment in Pacific Heights, and a loft-like space located on Pier 38, to reveal her go-to sources and finds in the Mission.
Tradesmen, 311 Valencia St., 415/552-8121
"It's an incredibly cozy space, the kind I want to hang out and just wear slippers in," says Homme of the well-edited store offering brass lamps from the 1930s to Danish modern credenzas. "And, I loved this lacquered chest of drawers."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"Although it's open by appointment only, the owner, Marc, is very accessible if you pick up the phone and dial the number on the window."
Farnsworth, 393 Valencia St., 415/503-1252
"Farnsworth reminds me of one of the cool shops you'd see in Palm Springs," says Homme of the store stocked with vintage hardware signs, modern floor lamps, and mid-century dressers. "It's not overly curated, but there's something for everyone."
"One of my clients is looking for a bar, and his father is a professional road racer, so I thought this fun bar cart on the left by BW Sanders would be fitting," says Homme. "The owner, Jeff Farnsworth, informed me that these carts were designed in 1960 and selected for the California Design Exhibition in 1963. The CA design exhibition was every three years and only lasted from 1960-1973."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"And, this 1950s Italian stool is great too," says Homme."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
The Apartment, 3469 18th St., 415/255-1100
"The Apartment reminds me of my Grandmother's attic with unexpected nooks and distressed wood floors," says Homme. "But if you like something, make sure to buy it. If you wait, most likely, it won't still be around when you come back."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
Exterior of The Apartment
"I love these chairs from the 1920s," says Homme, of the trove filled with one-of-a-kind pieces from vintage postcards to distressed wooden dressers. "They were marked 'San Francisco County Clerk's office. The owner explained that the city has all of this amazing furniture stored away. But, he managed to go to a rare sale a few years back and picked these."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"And I couldn't stop staring at this gorgeous Indian vessel," says Homme.
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"I saw this bar and walked right by it," she says. "I would never have considered it until the owner showed me what it was. It's perfect for a loft, industrial office, or a bachelor pad. I love the swivel bar. And it's in excellent condition. It's great finding pieces that require little to no restoration."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"And, I felt like this was the winner of the day," says Homme. "At $975, it's an investment, but it's a lot of bang for your buck. You could add this to your living room and totally boast the style and fashion factor. This would easily go for a lot more in any antique shop. It's super chic and there are so many styles this could slip into."
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
Monument, 571 Valencia St., 415/861-9800
"The owners, Michael De Angelis and Samuel Genthner, have done such a great job curating Monument," says Homme, who frequents the store for their selection of Murano glass lamps, chandeliers from the 1960s and decorative brass wall sculptures. "It's been so great to see it develop over the years."
"I was able to find a few really affordable things here," she says. "I love this 1960's gilt wood mirror, which Michael calls the 'Mrs. Robinson mirror' by a company called La Barge, 'like the band he says.'"
Courtesy of Michelle Homme
"This would be really cool in a small office bathroom with some kind of 1950's or 1960's dramatic color wall paint," says Homme who is currently on the lookout for a similar piece for her clients. "There's a lot of style that comes with this mirror, so it would be ideal in a simple space."
| Dec 27 at 06:00 AM
Friday, December 24, 2010
Rooms to Let: vacant storefronts come to life in and around Union Square for IIDA's The Windows
Thanks to the International Interior Design Association's Northern California chapter, and a stable of more than 150 architects, designers, artists, contractors, construction companies, and volunteers, there's another reason to linger in the streets of Union Square and downtown San Francisco during the next five weeks. But, when you do, just be sure take a good look at the windows.
Call the installations real-life dioramas or exhibits in a large open-air museum (sans the admission fee), the 14 vacant storefront windows pending lease negotiations are located at 300 Grant Avenue, 128 Post Street, 100 Montgomery Street, 235 California Street, and 457 Pacific Avenue (all four displays at 128 Post have already been dismantled). Aptly named The Windows, the displays range from over-the-top enchanted moss-covered Alice In Wonderland-like forests, to dangling sculptures made of layers of colorful transparencies, and walnut-and-pvc pipe structures recalling a giant 3D kaleidoscope, all centered around one common theme: home.
Window No. 9 designed by Studios Architecture, BCCI Construction, Haworth Commercial Casework, and Haworth
"When we initially thought of this concept and this competition, we saw that there were something like 50 empty storefronts, so we went to the brokers and thought it would be a great opportunity to bring attention to the buildings during the holidays, while gaining exposure," says Julia Campbell, Studio Director for Gensler and co-director (with Laura Gambino) of the IIDA San Francisco City Center chapter, of the design competition that continues through January 31st. "But we could have never predicted all of the pop-up shops that came in, so we had to be really flexible and move things around at the last minute. It's like DIFFA's Dining By Design, where each design team works with contractors and furniture vendors to create those fantastic tables, but they are only up for two nights. The investment is much like the windows."
Window highlights include Arcanum Architecture's (Window No. 1) wood sculpture consisting of an enormous cluster of intricately placed wooden dowels (all painstakingly glued into position in 4-5 hour shifts by members of the design team and help from Tad Beach and his crew at Design Workshops) and 32 tunnel-like pvc pipes giving way to family photos of just about every team member who worked on the project, and Vicki Simon and Evan Holm's (Window No. 10) whimsical interpretation of what it means to stay connected to home with a see-through lace-like dresser built by Holm and salvaged doors from Urban Ore.
"We liked the idea of suggesting a story unfolding, and we wanted people to see something new every time," says Jeff Burkebile, Associate at Arcanum Architecture."There were a few happy accidents and experiments and it was so interesting to see it take shape. I like to see people interacting with it and really enjoying it."
Window No. 1 was created by Arcanum Architecture, Richlen Construction, and Design Workshops
(Hint: If you stand and study the window long enough you'll also discover the illuminated sculpture has four objects representative of childhood memories, such as a tiny black Monopoly piece plucked straight from a game played every Christmas Eve in years past, and a ceramic cow that once hung above the kitchen sink at Grandma's house).
"We came up with the concept of 'the ties that bind,' and the true connectedness to the home," says textile and interior designer Vicki Simon of window Number 10 she created with carpenter-turned-artist Evan Holm. "It all came together very fast and it was very serendipitous. We had one meeting at a cafe, and the same day went to Urban Ore and scoured for materials. The next day we met for paint, and the next time we met at the site. I installed all of the yarn freehand."
Vicki Simon, Evan Holm, and RN Field Construction created this window display from a dresser built by Holm and salvaged doors from Urban Ore
"Like a house, you continually leave and come back, so the doors represent coming and going, while the sculpture of the yarn represents the connectedness you feel to the home," says Simon, who is also working on a new line of rugs available to the public early next year. "I think when you see our window, it draws you in. It's mysterious in some way and it makes you think."
"Our intention next year is to make it a bigger event and team up with some of the established companies like Macy's, Nordstrom or The Gap," adds Campbell. "It's a great way to generate community involvement and improve San Francisco's downtown, while we get the return of showcasing design. We're hoping that we can generate a lot of interest so it can just keep getting better and better."
For a detailed map and a complete list of participants, go to www.thewindows.org. Call 415/498-0501 through January 31st to cast your vote for your favorite window display (including dismantled projects). Be sure to cite corresponding window number from actual window or map. Winner is announced in February.
| Dec 24 at 06:00 AM
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Holiday gifting ideas from a pro: Karen Young of Hammocks & High Tea
It's three days to Christmas. But even if you haven't had a second to think about what to gift your friends and family, (let alone the hostess of your next, and maybe final holiday party this week), there's still time. We sat down with textile designer Karen Young, founder of Hammocks & High Tea, (who travels frequently between New York and San Francisco), for her six favorite gift ideas under $50, go-to hostess gifts, and expert tips for creative and inexpensive wrapping.
"With all the fuss of the holidays, a calendar is often the last thing on the 'remember to buy' list," says Young. "I adore this Seesaw letterpress calendar available at Rare Device, inspired by vintage textiles and geometric shapes. The subtle metallic gold doesn't hurt a bit either. Each page is perforated so it can be framed like artwork."
"Tis' the season when everyone runs to buy extra dishes," says Young. "These fabric covered trays by designer Michael Levine have such beautiful texture and add a little spice to your cheese display or holiday table."
"I could spend hours smelling Kobo soy candles. The scents are incredible," says Young. "As if that isn't enough, they are beautifully packaged in a tin with a set of matches."
"These scented drawer liners are an unexpected gift of pretty, and they work for a range of tastes," says Young of the liners made of recycled paper and printed with soy ink. "For an extra element of surprise, use it to wrap a gift."
"I find a reason to browse 20x200 everyday," says Young. "This site makes art accessible, and for as little as $20 you can give the gift of a collectible piece. If you're not sure exactly what they'd like, purchase a gift certificate." 8x10 prints start at $20.
"I've been making a cocoa mix that will be in everyone's stocking this year," says Young.
"Blend 1 cup dark cocoa powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, half a teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of chili powder. Package into glass mason jars and tie with a pretty ribbon. This makes a delicious guilt-free mix with a kick. Add cookies, and you've got a gift with charm and spice."
No-fail Hostess Gifts
"A bottle of wine is often the go-to hostess gift, but to deliver one wrapped in a tea towel is extra special," says Young. This ikat chevron pattern printed on 100% organic cotton is Young's pick.
"After the ordeal of planning a flawless party, the hostess is usually on her last leg by the end of the night. I like to gift something pampering like these beautiful Lucia soaps," says Young.
Young's 5 tips for do-it-yourself wrapping:
1. Use remnant pieces of fabric, or a silk scarf (that may never have been exactly your style). Finish with textured ribbon or tie loose ends and let the package speak for itself.
2. Tissue paper often gets stuffed on the inside of the gift, but if you place two sheets together and wrap carefully, the package looks sweet and feminine.
3. Check the pantry. I often buy tea tins that look like gifts themselves. Complete the look with a bow.
4. My favorite gift ever was wrapped in craft paper and tied with bright orange wool yarn. The simplicity of craft paper never fails to make a chic package.
5. If you're wrapping something flat like a picture or print, place it between two squares of cork board (found at office supply and craft stores such as Michaels), and tie with a bright ribbon. Add a bit of greenery or a jingle bell.
Have a favorite gift or wrapping idea? Let us know.| Dec 22 at 06:00 AM
Monday, December 20, 2010
Concealing Clutter: uncovering creative holiday storage solutions
Don't have time to get your place in tip-top shape for holiday house guests (or maybe in-laws who you're desperately trying to impress?) Don't panic. Take it in stride, or even dedicate a few hours a day to sift through clutter (think piles of holiday cards and white elephant gifts from the office party) and get a little organized. But, if you don't have even a few spare minutes to get the place model-home ready, here's a few storage solutions that should do just the trick.
West Elm's nailhead trim bench doubles as a large storage space for items you'd rather not keep out in the open for guests. It's perfect for the guest room or even in the living room.
For small spaces (and tiny or unsightly knickknacks), Z Gallerie's Everglades faux croc storage cube is your best bet.
If a steamer trunk is more your style, opt for JCPenney's Maritime trunk cocktail table.
Ideal for an entry table or console, Wisteria's linen table skirt is an easy option for hiding goods.
Wisteria's linen table skirt ($99) fits perfectly over the all-purpose shelf table, ($149) also available at Wisteria.
Got a favorite (or ultra-sneaky) creative storage idea or solution? Let us know.
| Dec 20 at 06:00 AM
Friday, December 17, 2010
Friday Finds: last-minute holiday shopping at Gilman Village
If you haven't finished (or dare I say, even started?) your holiday shopping, there's no need to worry. I always think some of the best decisions are made under pressure. But, thanks to Berkeley's Gilman Village, you have until December 24th to knock out your holiday gift list. At Trove, score deals (40-70% off retail prices) on everything from ceramic trays and bowls by Rae Dunn to wooden bowls, John Robshaw shams, and tabletop goods. You might even find a new dining table for the holiday dinner, or a little something to keep on-hand for your next baby shower gift.
Ceramic dishes by Rae Dunn at Trove
For rare finds and artwork from around the world, stop by Ethnic Arts for hand-painted ornaments, handmade silver jewelry, and suzani textiles.
Colorful quilts at Ethnic Arts
Pick up one-of-a-kind French-inspired goods at The Pop-Up Shop. Items change weekly, so you might just have first dibs on newly rotated inventory. Check the chalkboard for prices.
Inside Berkeley's Pop-Up shop
Utensils at The Pop-Up Shop
For paintings by Bay Area artists including Lori Robinson and Don Beck, head to Show Place Art.
Paintings by Lori Robinson available at Show Place Art.
On the way out, don't miss T-Rex BBQ Restaurant's holiday happy hour (3pm-6pm) for hand cut fries ($3), devil eggs ($2), barbecue oysters ($2), and tacos ($1). Wash it down with a $4-dollar draft beer.
T-Rex BBQ Restaurant
Gilman Village is located at 10th Street and Gilman Street in Berkeley. Got any last-minute shopping tips or insider scoops on local sales? We want to hear about them!
| Dec 17 at 06:00 AM
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Looking Glass: Pier 1 Import's Hayworth mirrored vanity adds instant drama
I love a good bargain. Maybe that explains my stop-at-nothing quest for a mirrored vanity. Call it extreme patience, or mere obsession, but I've been keeping my options open for as long as I've lived in the city: 7 years. That's a long wait. But, I'm sure glad I did. Thanks to Pier 1's new Hayworth mirror and vanity, I'm no longer staring at a blank wall in my bedroom, or fixating over saving for an antique, Old Hollywood-inspired piece that just might not exist.
Instead, I've decided to focus my time and energy on new pursuits, like how to tie the look together with pretty accessories such as glass bottles, bud vases, and jewelry trays. Urban Outfitters' footed glass catch-all candy dish is ideal for rings and necklaces,
and Jonathan Adler's new Charade Cloud white vase does just the trick for a single peony or tulip.
And, Anthropologie's fashion tome ($19.95) completes the look. Penned by Karen Karbo, The Gospel According to Coco Chanel: Life Lessons From the World's Most Elegant Woman is my pick.
Got a design idea or steal? Tell us about it.
| Dec 15 at 06:00 AM
Monday, December 13, 2010
New beginnings at The Wallflower
I'm thrilled to take on the role as the new Wallflower blogger. (Although I must admit, veteran Tina Barsheghian left some pretty big shoes to fill).
A little bit about me: I'm a magazine editor-turned-freelance writer and editor and love all things design. I've interviewed designers, artists, product designers, architects, and reported on the latest trends and up-and-coming tastemakers. But, I'm a sucker for color, pattern, beautiful art, flea markets, finding that perfect piece, and uncovering new and talented designers.
A few of my favorite (and not so favorite things):
Style: Mid-century meets modern meets Hollywood glamour. I'm interested in things with a story and a rich history, but with a hint of elegance and maybe even a little sparkle.
Favorite architect: John Lautner. You might recognize his spaceship-like residence (aka Chemosphere house). It has been featured on-screen in movies such as Charlie's Angels.
Lautner's Chemosphere residence in the Hollywood Hills was built in 1960 for Leonard J. Malin.
Favorite childhood design memory: growing up, my mom lugged my older sisters and younger brother and me to random open houses and model homes just for fun. I loved the possibilities. Each home was like a real-life dollhouse. Who would live here? What would they do? How would they decorate? How would they use the rooms? At the time, I didn't understand why she loved it so much, but I was quickly hooked. I'll still wander into open houses every now and then just to see the staging, the architecture, and what I would (or wouldn't do) differently.
Items I could live without: bean bags. (Sorry. I know they are comfy, but I like structure). Oh, and futons. Why? Because there are so many interesting sofas out there.
Most intriguing style of building: flatiron. (Just the mere engineering!)
Favorite SF landmark: It's a tie between the Palace of Fine Arts and the Conservatory of Flowers.
Favorite design magazines: Too many to count. (But, if I had to pick: Sunset, Lonny, Coastal Living, Dwell, Monocle, Luxe), and newcomer Anthology.
Fun trend I like: velvet flocked wallpaper. It's pretty to look at, and it's instant art for the walls. But, with the busy pattern, a little goes a long way. It would look great as an accent wall.
I'm proud of: single-handedly hauling a 6-foot Christmas tree into my apartment last week (just because I was too impatient to wait for help).
So, here's to doing my best to bring you the latest and greatest in design. Got a favorite architect, interior designer, or trend? I'd love to hear it.
| Dec 13 at 06:00 AM
Monday, August 09, 2010
The next step for The Wallflower (plus Top 10 favorites)
For more than a year, I've had the pleasure of writing about all the amazing people and projects that make DIY design so interesting. I got to know some supremely talented local artists, crafters, designers, and furniture makers, and tried my hand at some fun projects. Most gratifying of all, I got to share them with you.
But with a new opportunity on the horizon, I won't have time to blog for The Wallflower, so I'll be passing the torch to someone else. The Wallflower will return soon.
In the meantime, for my last post, here are my top 10 favorite projects and posts of the past year (not in any particular order):
Fototiller
3.Customizing the back of bookshelves.
Le Blog Deco
4.Branch jewelry holder, one of my first posts:
Tina Barseghian
5.Laundry room painted in deepening hues.
Tina Barseghian
Nina Invorm
The Inspired Room
9.Painting bright colors on interior window panes.
Real Simple
10.Pegboards around the house.
Just a Girl
I hope the blog has inspired some of you to get out there and make things, experiment with different projects, and to express yourself in creative ways. I've had a lot of fun scouting out ideas and sharing them with you.
Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for the next iteration of The Wallflower.
| Aug 09 at 07:00 AM
Monday, July 26, 2010
Lori Weitzner's subtle patterns
You don't need bright colors and bold patterns to make a statement with wallpapers. Lori Weitzner's subtle wallcoverings steal the spotlight with their quiet elegance.
These patterns would work in any room.
I'll be on vacation for the next couple of weeks, and will return on August 9. In the meantime, happy summer!
| Jul 26 at 08:28 AM
Friday, July 23, 2010
Etsy Friday Finds: Pet Beds
Today's finds are dedicated to our furry family members: our pets.
Check out these pretty perches.
A hand-crocheted cozy.
Walrus-covered screen print.
A soft snuggly.
Seashell fabric on bright turquoise.
Love the daisies!
| Jul 23 at 09:40 AM
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