I’ve had a crush on Bobby Clark for ages, but I’m just now getting around to sharing her paintings somehow. The Scottish artist is currently living in Melbourne, Australia, exploring the symmetry and balance of shapes through the creation of minimal composition studies. Her paintings on paper are quite distinctive and lovely.
Have you gotten around to building your first fire this autumn? My least favorite part is gathering the wood, but these log carriers would likely change that. Fewer scratches, fewer trips, and more time to spend around that hard-earned fire.
Ezgi Pamir is a real wiz with embroidery thread. Not only is she able to create the smallest of details, she often trails some of them off the fabric itself. A scarf, a hat, a branch. But this is really just a pastime for Pamir, who lists herself as a stage and costume designer. So much talent, so few hours in the day!
If I had a gigantic studio I’d like to think that I could invite you all over for a meal. One that says thank you for hanging around and keeping Design Crush afloat for over ten years, for your kind words and encouragement, and just for being an incredible group of human beings. After all, Thanksgiving is about being grateful and saying it out loud. So go get dressed in your favorite outfit – sparkly dress or sweatpants, there’s no judgement here – and join me for a delicious time. (Thanksgivings past: 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)
I just saw that the Northeast is about to get its first notable cold front of the season, and these oil paint on hot-pressed watercolor paper pieces by Leah Pantéa seem fitting. In her latest collection, Janus, Leah combines abstract and geometric forms to create an atmosphere I’d be happy to spend a little time in.
In my Janus collection, I am pulling forward an elaborate, colorful and detailed abstracted landscape. As a work becomes fully realized, I begin to apply a veil of white, masking most of the work that lies beneath, pushing it back into the void for which it came. In this, my work discusses the mysterious, and how we place our faith. The veil is not intended to be deceptive or create space between the unknown and us; instead it is a tool to begin a conversation. What does it take to trust stories over our immediate perceptions? Why does the story matter at all?
FashionABLE, a lifestyle brand I’ve long supported and even collaborated with on product design, is now ABLE. They’re still focused on ending generational poverty by working with women who have overcome extraordinary circumstances. And still manufacturing directly in the communities they wish to impact, both locally and globally, creating jobs, and ending the cycle of charity dependency.
ABLE just released their latest collection, right on time for all of those holiday events you’re sure to attend and chock full of perfect gifts to give too. I recently picked up a cropped sweatshirt, loafers, a backpack, and a pair of statement earrings to help round out my winter wardrobe. Most pieces are available in several colors and everything is right on trend. In fact, I might have an eye on a few more things for my Christmas list!
Chicago-based artist Pete Nawara‘s The Mirror Conspiracy makes me smile and think about how ridiculous we can each look while checking ourselves out in the mirror! Each piece includes multiples of the same person primping, maybe for a date or a job interview or just another workday. I’m really drawn to the paint-by-number quality Nawara uses, giving his subjects an energetic pop art vibe.
Tip #1 An Extra Blanket
This is one of the first things I do when preparing for guests no matter the time of year – lay an extra blanket either across the foot of the bed or over a chair. You never know at what temperature someone prefers sleeping, plus it adds a layer of coziness.
Tip #2 Bring in Flowers
One of my favorite touches, a few fresh flowers or some greenery. Set a little vase on the bedside table or dresser for a sweet surprise. Or if you know your guest(s) have allergies opt for a few silken stems in their place as a thoughtful touch.
Tip #3 Someplace to Sit
Having someplace to sit other than the bed is something to consider if you have the space – it can be a cozy armchair that can double as a reading nook or something as small as a stool.
Tip #4 A Place for Luggage
Make sure there’s a spot for luggage to rest. A bench, a stool, or a folding rack all do the trick for when guests need to dig through their bags.
Tip #5 Closet Space
If you store your off season clothing (or whatever else) in your guest room closet, make sure to clear out enough space so that your guests’ clothing won’t feel cramped. Add a few wooden hangers to make them feel like more than an afterthought.
Tip #6 Stock Up on Toiletries + Towels
Throughout the year I keep an eye out for sales on these for just this reason. Super soft Turkish towels are my favorite thing to pamper guests with, and all things travel-sized can be stored in a glass jar or box nearby for easy access.
Tip #7 Set Out Bedside Necessities
Besides making guests feel comfortable in your home, the best thing you can do is leave them wanting for nothing. Leave bottles of water and prepackaged snacks and fruit on a tray or bar cart. Water glasses and a favorite candle on the nightstand will make them think they’re at a B&B.
Tip #8 An Easy Access Outlet
Our loves involve a lot of charging these days, so make sure no one has to dig behind the bed or dresser in order to find a free outlet. All the better if they’re USB ready!
Tip #9 The Option of a Nightlight
I can sleep in nothing but near total darkness, however in an unfamiliar place it’s nice to have the option of turning on a nightlight. Have one near the door or bed in case your guests’ would like a little help walking to the bathroom at 3am.
Tip #10 Make Sure There’s a Mirror
Maybe this is vain of me, but I like to have a look in the mirror and adjust as necessary before walking out of any guest room I’m occupying. Hang one over the closet door, set one on the dresser, or use a large one as decor.