Give the Gift that Lasts forever

These potted plants look so realistic that you may forget that they are not real and accidentally water them. orchids in baskets and pretty ceramic pots, hyacinth bulbs bursting forth from earthy looking fake sod, fuzzy and smooth succulents in attractive, rustic containers make these potted plants a great décor accent as well as thoughtful hostess gifts that last forever. There are even single “plants” placed in a seashell that provide a charming bathroom accent.

The next time you need a gift for yourself or someone special, check out these tricky “fakes” at Santa Barbara design Center. You might also be tempted to pick up lighting, accent pillows, throw blankets and even order custom furniture, while you are at it. Prices begin at $25.00. —Leslie A. Westbrook

Santa Barbara Design Center, 410 Olive Street, (805) 962-8555, www.santabarbaradc.com

Color it stripe!

You will be seeing colorful stacking stripes on a variety of interior surfaces this coming year,” predicts Romaine doussineau, co-owner of Reeds floors & Interiors. Known for contemporary design, he and his wife, myriam, find inspiration across the world to inform their design approach.

Thick or skinny, horizontal or vertical, stripes are finding their way onto ceilings, as detail elements in accessories or bold and up front on upholstery and window dressings. “Stripes are everywhere in fashion design, and we as interior designers play and re-invent stripes all the time,” adds myriam. “Larger stripes typically trend more contemporary while smaller stripes will play in traditional designs, but even this base can be refuted at times. Stripes are timeless and worthy of our attention when redesigning a home.”

–By Jen Kennedy

In 2014, Reed’s showroom expands to include custom upholstered furniture. Reeds Floors & Interiors is located at 3821 Santa Claus Lane or online at http://www. reedfloors.com