THE ART OF GIVING W ’ H E -C
F% % , F% &
P J T’
I INTERIORS DEC/JAN 2011
C , C C
A ’
bring a little suns
shine inside this winter...
Punta Cana Resort & Club, designed by Oscar De La Renta (Dominican Republic)
Laura’s Note December / January 2010-2011
Coming Soon...2011! Laura Umansky President & Creative Director
It is with a great deal of excitement that I introduce the Winter issue of Laura U | Mag. The response to our first issue was fantastic and has inspired us to think of our magazine as more than just an extension of our design studio: it has taken on a life of it's own. And the timing just couldn't be better! With the closing of 2010 and the launch of 2011 there is much happening at Laura U. Renewal is always at the front of my mind at the start of the new year. I make plans, schedule travel, and look forward to fresh ideas in the design world. Our plans are colossal for the new year! The new studio and showroom are in the works - walls have opened up and we are officially under construction! We are headed to Paris for our annual shopping trip. It is bitterly cold in Europe this time of year, but the streets and shops are free of tourists and the city of lights is always incredible! And what better way to share what we are seeing in the design industry everyday than the Laura U Mag? It has become a creative space that inspires our interiors, forwards R & D for our boutique and opens an avenue for discussion with you. All of us at Laura U are thrilled at the creative challenges of producing a new showroom, designing interiors for our clients, and, now, bringing it all together in a magazine. It is because of your incredible support that we are able to do all of these things. We hope you enjoy our latest effort! Happy, Happy, Holidays and here's to an even more creative 2011!
Best! Laura
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contents
“in every issue”
Laura’s Note
4
Letter From The Editor
8
Design | Special
30
Great Work Spaces
30
Party Scene
52
Community | SPOTLIGHT
54
The Top 5
55
editorial features
34
20
9 16 20 22 32 34 40 42 47 50
Flora and Muse: A Post Modern Design Feature: Designer David Iatesta Paris, Je T’aime Fashion Inspired Interiors: Chloe Sevigne Art |TALK: A NOLA Pop Artist Exposed Design |STYLE: Making A House A Home Behind The Scenes: What’s Hot or Not? Jean Paul Gaultier : A Roche Bobois Icon Bungalow 5: A Brand Uncovered! From Small to Spacious :How to Maximize your Interior Space
40
shopping Golden Opulence La Femme Fatal All That Glitters Holiday Gift Ideas Laura’s Picks Shop|Talk Editor’s Picks Get the Look Eco|CHIC
10 12 14 18 24 26 28 38 48
18
A letter from the EDITOR
I
t’s a busy time at Laura U. With new beginnings within an earshot and the holiday season upon us in full bloom, we are delighted with the prospects for 2011. Thinking of all the food, shopping, family time and cocktails always makes me nostalgic. When I think back to where we started this year and where we are at the end of the year, I can only think, “it just gets better with time.” This proves true even for this magazine. In our launch issue we explored Laura’s love affair with gray, the designers gave you a sneak peek into their design of Flora and Muse and Don von Furstenberg’s design at the Claridge’s wowed you.
This issue - at the good ole’ age of two - is now even more refined and intriguing. We showcase the designs by fashion designer, Chloe Sevigne and give you a glimpse inside interiors that can be designed to match your fashion sense. We explore the many uses of art and share with you our top places to find great holiday recipes for you and yours. But it wouldn’t be a second issue without more shopping, more furnishings, and certainly more fashion. We upped the anti so much, it inspired a name change. No longer Laura U| DESIGN, it’s Laura U| MAG. So get used to it, we’ll be pulling out all the stops and getting better all at the same time. Just watch and see...I promise! And, while I am not able to reminisce of what it was like in 1923, I marveled when I was shown this poster of what TIME magazine used to be. My how far they have come and with such a different feel. Just imagine, Volume I, Issue 4 of TIME! Today, we get to read volume 176, issue 20.
I have also learned in this very short time that when it comes to Houstonians, we are city of givers and great supporters. We are proud of our community, thankful for organizations that care for children, women and our lovable pooches and we enjoy art immensely. I can’t say that putting this issue together was easier, but I can certainly say that completing a second issue was definitely fulfilling. What will be even more fulfilling is the feeling I’ll get when issue three is on virtual stands. But until then, enjoy!
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“….a post-modern sense of purpose” Flora and Muse at CITYCENTRE The Laura U design team was very creative in making sure all the elements of Flora & Muse were implemented. To achieve what can only be called “versatile”, they combined new furnishings with vintage found pieces and accessories.
W O N
O
N E P
at CITYCENTRE
“Umansky chose vintage pieces that were recovered with updated fabrics; period-piece frames envelope modern art and crystal chandeliers, sconces, and ornate table lamps create focal points. Specialty crown molding, trim and wall treatments enhances the room while hand-stenciled, vine patterned ceilings complete the ambience.” - (contd.)
“This restaurant has an almost postmodern sense of purpose: It belongs in this neighborhood, and it's useful -- in more than one way. Its patisserie side, with high tea, crystal chandeliers and chic wallpaper, appeals to the "ladies who lunch" in the Memorial Villages and the wealthy enclaves west of the Beltway. Its richly appointed bar side with comfortable banquettes appeals to the younger crowd in the area, whether they live or just work out west. And its warm, cloistered restaurant side appeals to diners staying at the Hotel Sorella or just Memorial residents looking for a solid meal….”
Houston Press, 2010 Photos Courtesy of Jill Hunter Photography
Golden Sunburst Mirror, Neiman Marcus
GOLDEN OPULENCE Enjoy your Holiday Luxuriously!
Iris Shoe, United Nude Gold Lamp, Hermitage
Mirrored Drawer, World’s Away Gold Watch, Michael Kors
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Embellished Bandage Dress, Herve Leger Sequin
Grayson Mirrored Chandelier, By Oly
Crystal Bib Necklace, Kenneth Jay Lane
Gold Fiction Nail Polish, Chanel
Silk Chair, Versailles Button Carver Gold Pliage Framed Clutch Bag, Christian Louboutin
L Louis Side Table, Stitch
Royalton Chandelier, Form Decor
White Leather Chaise, Chesterfield
Phantom Pillar Holder, CB2
Dune J'Adore Diamante Side Bow Court Shoe, ASOS
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Necklace, Subversive Jewelry
Open Carved Bed, Brocade Home
LA FEMME FATALE
Black Embellished Dress, Miss Selfridge
Belle Evening Clutch, Diane Von Furstenberg
Plastic Fantastic Chair, POAA
y
Black and White Mid Scale Damask Wallpaper, Home Depot
Pomegranate Ornament, Elliot Raffit
Glacia Star Ornament, Eighteen Karat
Strap An
ALL THAT GLITTERS CAN
CERTAINLY BE YOURS THIS HOLIDAY!
Black Pearl Diamond Ring, Rothem Collection
Silver Cluny Flutes, Crate & Barrel
Moma Sofa, Urban Barn
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Karri
pless Evening Gown, noushka Couture
ie’s Sapphire Earrings, Fantasy Jewelry
Silver Sofa and Center Table, Chesterfield
Alexander McQueen Clutch, FarFetch
Jeweled Satin Pumps, Manolo Blahnik
WANT THIS LOOK? Over the years, renowned furniture and lighting designer David Iatesta has created several one of a kind home furnishing and lighting pieces. Just take a look for yourself.
Annecy Chandelier
Clam She
The David Iatesta line is a collection of finely handcrafted furniture, accessories, and lighting. Their designs bridge the gap between traditional and modern, borrowing elements from 18th and 19th century European and American heirlooms and cleaning them up for today's interiors. Each piece in the collection is designed and constructed with careful attention to detail using only the finest materials available. Visit David Iatesta at www.davidiatesta.com.
Antwerp Ar
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Georgetown Armchair
D A V I D I AT E S TA Sunburst Mirror
ell Sconce
Armchair
Bradley Mirror
Dauphine Sconce
Cerusier Center Table
Stay eco-friendly this holiday season with Stray Dog Design’s Artichoke Lamp, made out of recycled materials
HOL G IF
from Haiti with low VOC paints. The base comes in a variety of colors including Pumpkin Blush and Bahaman Sea Blue. Stray Dog Designs, $525
Your lovable pooch will love you even more when you give them this Chilewich pet mat. Shaped like a dog bone and made out of
Worlds Away, $4
women vinyl flooring, these easy to clean mats come in Mango, Lime, Platinum, Lemon, and Chestnut.
Fill yo
inspired f
motifs. T
gold-pla Chilewich, $35
tops in sc ate,
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LIDAY FT I DEAS
Personalize your gifts with vintage wooden letters. This black distressed monogram comes in any letter and looks great leaning on the mantel or hanging on a wall. It’s Serif shape adds a classic,
This gold-leafed side table and basket
yet modern look to any interior.
weave design adds the classic holiday color and texture to any interior. Even more, any accent placed on top
Old New Again, $18
are reflected with its beveled mirrored
420
Rosanna, $35
our home with aromatic scents
from Michael Aram’s organic
These holiday candles come with
ated, bronze, or silver holiday
cents of Pinecone, PomegranAcorn, and many more. Michael Aram, $60
Rosanna’s “Walk in the Woods” mug set is a perfect gift for any coffee, hot chocolate, or tea lover. The collection also has matching dessert trays and dessert plates, all packaged in a decorative
Paris,
Je T ’aime Versace Home
Versace Home in Milan
Our annual European shopping trip is fast approaching and, while planning our next adventure, I am also reflecting on our trip last season. Touring Paris, Milan, Florence and Rome last December was incredible and we were introduced to truly compelling designers! After shopping all day, every day, for ten days straight, we were exhausted but inspired. Below are just a few of our favorites! So, where to next? Our plans are in the works for a shopping trip this December. Stay tuned for our updated finds in 2011!! I am sure it will be full of great design pieces and inspirations.
“So,wheretonext?”
Photos courtesy of Pandora Décor, Versace Home, Ghislain Antiques, The Cyrus Company, and Devon & Devon.
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Cyrus Company The
showroom in
Milan
. You
can also find their
amazing In Rome, we loved the
Devon and Devon showroom.
showroom stateside in
Near the Spanish Steps and just a couple of streets from Via Condotti (where you can find ALL of the major couture showrooms), it is a gorgeous showcase of elegant bathroom fixtures.
NYC (115 Mercer Street).
Les Puces... The owner of
Pandora in Florence (near Santa Maria
Novella and not far from the Duomo) is not a product designer but is a compelling curator. Her collection of 1920s through 1970s French and Italian antique and vintage furnishings is enviable. This was, by far, my favorite find on the entire shopping trip.
(“The Fleas”) in Paris is a gem. The flea market at St. Oeun revealed a truly unique designer on Rue de Rosiers. Ghislain Antiques creates the coolest “French industrial” furnishings.
fashion-inspired | INTERIORS
Chloe + Classic - Boring = Chic.
Nothing packs more punch than bold color combinations or soft complimentary hues taken from the runway. From the fashion houses of global designers, to the studios of not-so global designers, interiors all over are mimicking today’s style leaders. These bold and beautiful interiors are a glaring reflection of today’s runway trends. Whoever said fashion only belongs in the closet, was obviously mistaken. Chic interior designs have taken their queues from fashion designers like Chloe Sevigne, Oscar de la Renta, and Diane von Furstenberg. It’s even easier these days to express your fashion personality in your own place, almost as easy as it is to strut your fashion ensemble down the streets. The design of interiors has grown beyond the traditional beige and brown to include more unique and chic pieces and colors.
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Whether you love bold colors, daring patterns, or even neutral textures, now with just the snap of a finger, you can put your own touch of style into your home. Just a glimpse at Chloe Sevigne's Fall 2010 “See Collection” gives you an idea of how easy it is to show your sense of fashion right at home. Purples are one of the most popular colors this fall and they translate into a bold, yet serene bedroom. Unlike the composition of purples, rustic-chic adds a “big” personality to the room with a stylish, regal look. Greys are also a huge must have in your wardrobe this fall season and makes any room look sleek, clean, and sophisticated. When used with a combination of patterns, blues are always great in a living room or bedroom. It’s also agreed that a subtle, but unique look will lighten or brighten up any room. So why not take a cue from the runways of New York or Milan this fall?
Photos courtesy of Gary Spain, Kishani Perera, Alexandra Champalimaud and House Beautiful
Every chic designer has their “go-to sources”. One of my staple resources is Elle Décor, which always provides impeccable designs and an insight on current trends. This classic issue of Elle Décor is a personal favorite and holds a special place
Laura
Brand van Egmond Pricing Available Upon Reque
on my library shelf. Elle Décor, $14.95 Annual Subscription
I’ve always admired the bold, edgy designs of designer Jonathan Adler. These vibrant pillows are perfect for the interior of your choice, and the cheerful trimmings create an energetic ambience in any home.
Back in the Saddle, $40
These two proud horses stand guard over my very extensive book collection;
while their primary purpose is apparent Jonathan Adler Design, $68—$98
statement they make on my bookshelf can be overlooked. The classic look these portray adds a flawless finishing
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These funky aprons fit my edgy
a’s PICKS
sense of style. They make your domestic attire anything but docile. Whatever it is you need to get done, it's always so much more fun in one of these delightful aprons. How
d, est
can you not love these? After sourcing a Hudson chandelier for a client’s interior, I became very
Laura U Collection, $25
fond of the intricate design, as well as the time and effort that go into each exquisite piece. This Brand van Egmond design is by far one of my favorites!
As a busy designer, travelling to find unique furnishings for clients is second nature and demands luggage that will withstand the most arduous travel. Diane von Furstenberg Luggage never disappoints.
t, the
n never pieces Diane von Furstenberg, $300
4.
SHOP|TALK In-Store @ Laura U Collection
8.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
7.
Pink Butterfly Vase by Fringe Studio, $37.50 Dog Head Chair by Phillips Collection, $600 Olive Branch Frame by Michael Aram, $70 Blue Birdies by A&B Home, (pricing available upon request) The Cadbury Tray by Pulvermacher $590 Dog Tail Chair by Phillips Collection, $600 each White Porcelain Carnation by Lazy Susan, (pricing available upon request) Porcelain Cardova Lamp, Bungalow 5, (pricing available upon request)
1.
3. 2. 5.
6. 26 | L auraU
FURNITURE | LIGHTING | ART
Www.facebook.com/lauraucollection
WHAT I’M WISHING FOR! “Editor’s
Picks ”
1
3
2
4
5 1
2
Citron de Vigne Ceci New YorkLotion and Shower Gel Holiday Collection, Set, Fresh Empire Holiday Boxed Set - $40 $41
3
Portofino Medium Wallet-Dooney & Bourke $165
4 Multi Stem Decorative 5 Japonica Gog Pillow—Orla Kiely’s $80
Candle- Volusp $22
3 8
6
4
gi pa
9
7 6 Dotted Gold Plate Set 7 – Martha Stewart
P.S.– I made this… Amazon
$32
$13
8
10 Assorted Macarons 12 piece box - Little Oven $20
9
Limited Edition Scrabble $50
10
Dove BowlCrate and Barrel $50
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Great work spaces A great workspace is a MUST for anyone wanting to do their best work – whether it’s a mere desk with a small chair, a home office organized around a collection of art or an entire room or two filled with bookcases and hand carved ceilings. Here are a few great designs inspirations for your office design. Interiors designed by Lulu De Kwiatkowski, Flair and Michele Bonan (from left to right).
design| SPECIAL
art | TALK
ABANDONED AT THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Mixed media on birch panel [24"h x 24"w] 2007
Redefining Statement Pieces
YUMMY IN MY TUMMY GALACTIC CAMO SPACESUIT V2 Mixed media painting on Birch [60"h x 46"w] 2010
S
arah Ashley Longshore….Internationally known painter, furniture designer and artistic phenom is currently based in New Orleans, Louisiana. This expressionist painter was recently named one of New Orleans People to Watch by New Orleans Magazine. Her paintings not only reflect what catches her attention in the moment, but also expresses the beauty and humor of her life. Ashley has an impressive collectors list including Hollywood heavy hitters such as Salma Hayek, Penelope Cruz, Eli Manning, Director Paul Weitz, and Cinematographer Jimmy Muro, as well as fashion designer to the New York socialite scene, Alvin Valley. Her most recent paintings and custom chairs have been featured in the Kate Hudson movie "Earthbound" and currently, Ashley is designing a chair line featuring her artwork for Anthropologie stores nationwide. Her artwork can be seen in the Laura U Collection, the tasting room at Chateau Camplazens in Armissan, France and on approximately 75,000 eco totes designed by Alvin Valley that are sold at Duane Reade stores all over Manhattan, New York. “I love the idea of not taking the seriousness of design too literally. It’s okay to have a sense of humor and celebrate color,” says Ashley.
I WAS BORN YESTERDAY Mixed media painting on Birch [12"h x 12"w] 2009
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Photos Courtesy of Sarah Ashley Longshore.
“
EVERY artist dips
his brush in his own
SOUL and paints his OWN nature
“
into his pictures.
Henry Ward Beecher
design | STYLE
\
Making A House a HOME
’m currently of the age where many of my friends are purchasing their first homes and it’s really great to witness. As the lone interior designer, I often get called in to help find furniture or for advice on how to make certain spaces look ‘finished’. I have noticed that there is a common dilemma - ART. This issue we will address the often pondered question, How Do You Make A House Your Home. Although the pride of home ownership will make homebuyers cautious in ways they never were in a leased space, you really have to “bite the bullet”, get out a hammer and several nails, and hang stuff on the walls. That’s the big secret!! When you see spaces in a magazine that appear warm, inviting and full of character, it is almost always because they have art of some sort hanging about the place. Whether minimalist or a high-density clutter situation, wall décor sends the message that, yes, people do indeed live here. Photos courtesy of John Derian, Inside the Loop, Todd Slater, and Print Mafia
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A common misconception is that art is expensive. While serious art for collection purposes can be, the simplest of items can be elevated to appear as ART, just by hanging them on the wall! Check out these inexpensive solutions for creating a more customized space.
PLATE ACCENTS: I have long been a fan of using plates as accents on the wall, simply by adding a plate hanger. From vintage floral plates, beautiful glass platters to a kitch travel tray, the selection can be somewhat endless!
contd.
ETSY ART: Lots and lots of artists sell prints and original art on Etsy! Check out a few favorites that carry linocut prints, watercolor paintings, original photography and provoking screen prints. Pop any of these into a pre-made frame and voila!
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CONCERT POSTER ART: My hubs and I go to a lot of concerts. We started purchasing posters (usually the limited edition, signed-and-numbered, city-specific kind) at various shows, and have now amassed quite a collection! After framing these inexpensively, we have a wall full of memories, reliving the fantastic times we’ve had. You’ll obviously want to pick up your own poster at a local show, but here are some examples of the gorgeous artwork you might find.■ Kristina Wilson
1
2
3 7
9
5 4
8
6 RUSTIC CHIC
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10
GET THE LOOK 1 2 3
Sectional Slipcover Sofa Chaise European-inspired design redefines a classic sofa with low to the ground, deep profile characteristics. Price upon request, Restoration Hardware
Lorraine Chair Our chair's low seat and exposed wood frame recall 18th-century French Louis XV period designs. $495 - $790, Restoration Hardware
“Choice” Artwork: Mixed media on canvas by Ray Phillips.
4
Koko Company Richly textured and beautifully subtle pillow in a sunny yellow. A great way to add dimension and texture to any Interior. $81, burkedecor.com.
5 6
Rococo Mirror Our hand-carved mirror features the distinctive S-curves and intricate vine patterns of the 18th-century French rococo style, though instead of its classic gilded incarnation we've crafted it of rustic pine. $1995, Restoration Hardware
Tall Carved-Glass Table Lamp Chic, modern tribal. Molded glass base is inspired by African vessels, with rippled hand-carved horizontal stripes. $149, West Elm.
Chateau-Thierry Clock
7 8 9 10
Generations of French train travelers passed this clock on their way through the station at Chateau-Thierry, a historic town about 50 miles northeast of Paris. Over its decades of service, the clock earned a patina of watermarks and verdigris that only burnished its role as a local elder statesman. $229 - $299, Restoration Hardware
Tufted Coffee Ottoman Belgian linen wraps our grand-scale ottoman and offers dual functionality. $530-$580, Restoration Hardware. Benjamin Moore Paint The premium paints of Benjamin Moore are available in an array of hues, like those shown here: French Quarter Gold 287, Wenge AF-180, and Mascarpone AF-20.
Benjamin Moore Paint Add more color from Benjamin Moore’s premium paint collection in Bittersweet Chocolate 2114-10, Mustard Field, 337, and Lambskin 1051.
Behind the Scenes! D
iane Von Furstenberg seems to be all the talk amongst the designers this month. Her New York home seems to hold treasures from all around the world; from iron coatracks by Saint Clair Cemin to bronze Viennese art nouveau mirrors, it’s an interior designer’s haven. Her master bathroom features a screen created by one of Coco Chanel’s assistants, that is made out of silk and once belonged to the designer herself. Furstenberg has an obsession for “spreading things out.” She believes it’s a great way to zero in on the best ideas. Inspired by women and having her entire life on her living room book shelves, Furstenberg designed her home as a refuge for her friends and family. Photo courtesy of Elle Décor
i d Stu
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k l a oT
On the lookout... S traight out of a dream, Conran Shop Voliere’s drum table lamp was born in Paris. This skeletal desk lamp emits a soft glow to set a comforting mood in any room. While not being ideal for getting task work done, this delicate flock inspires our creative ideas.
Designer’s Choice
W
ith these creative sequin designs, Cynthia Rowley’s fashion band-aids are perfect for our fashion emergencies in the office.
Sneak Peak
W
ith new LED technology and energy efficient products, we think Philip’s innovative new EnduraLED light bulb was a bright idea! (no pun intended). The glow is as comforting as a warm fall evening in front of a fireplace, thanks to the coating that absorbs blue hues and converts them into golden shades. We’re in love with this bulb for its universal use and how easy it is to screw into any socket. Aside from recycling, this bulb takes eighty percent less power, so we can stay green and chic all at the same time!
Jean-Paul Gaultier‌ for Roche Bobois
“There is a natural kinship between fashion and interiors because there are a lot of bridges between the two - on fabrics, the most basic expression of fashion, on prints and harmonies.� -Gaultier
AAAAAà{x `t{ ]ÉÇz fÉyt4 Jean Paul Gaultier’s new home furniture collection was designed in collaboration with Roche Bobois to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Guests previewed the limited edition collection in Paris this past summer and now the complete collection is available in Roche Bobois’ 240 global boutiques .
With a debut at the Kips Bay Show house in NYC followed by an official launch at the Roche Bobois showroom in New York City, keep an eye out for Roche Bobois’ great new designs in boutiques near you.
To create this colorful expression of fashion, Gaultier paid homage to deceased German designer, Hans Hopfer who created the iconic Mah Jong sofa for Roche Bobois in the 1970’s. Gaultier kept the modular seating’s form but modernized it by swapping out its hippie-chic upholstery for a choice of lettering, lace, tattoo patterns or glamorous kissing scenes with marine stripe and red accents. Gaultier also came up with six additional upholstery selections for the collection, with descriptions like Dollar Bill, Tattoo and Kiss. The collection consists of a bed, custom sofa, a paravent, a floor mat, and several fabulous cushions. And, there’s a lot more where that came from: Roche Bobois will also be rolling out storage units, screens, seating, and other furnishings by Gaultier in time for next fall fashion season. Photos courtesy of John Paul Gaultier
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COLLECTION
vendor | PROFILE
BUNGALOW 5 A Brand Uncovered: Where Eastern Whimsy Meets Classical Archetypes!
B
ungalow 5’s inhouse cabinetmakers and finishers produce unique and stylish pieces often using unusual materials sourced from places all over the world. Their designs are heavily influenced by both Eastern and Western classical archetypes and possess a sense of versatility that allows them to slip as comfortably into any room, whether a modern bedroom or traditional sunroom. One of our favorite Bungalow 5 pieces is the Triton Shell, made of solid oak with a gold leaf finish.
Who says being ‘GREEN’ has to jeopardize a chic sense of style this Autumn?
Candles An essential item for autumn, candles create a cozy atmosphere in your home through their warmth and accent lighting. These eco-friendly candles from Pier 1 are made from soybeans, a renewable resource, and come in a variety of delicious scents. ($23 each) .
Cotton throw
Get wrapped up and lost in this organic cotton throw which comes in 4 colors. Toss on the arm of your chair or sofa as a perfect accent in the room. ($49 each), West Elm. Pillows
Made from 100% eco-friendly felt, these chocolate brown and white throw pillows add sophistication and simplicity to any room. ($26 each), Modernality.
server set
Created with an eco-friendly design, this handcrafted server set is made from sand cast metal and is perfect for all dinner occasions. ($39 per set), Pottery Barn. Mixing Bowls
Bringing out autumn colored kitchen prep accessories is a subtle way to suit your home to the season. Tag‘s new multi-harvest prep bowls can be used to prepare your autumn pastries or to display your freshly picked apples. ($15 per set of 3) Adopt –A-Pet
While we're not suggesting that you surprise an unsuspecting relative with a demanding new puppy, a new best friend is one of the most memorable gifts you can give those who are willing to take on the charge. Find a lovable pooch at Scout’s Honor Rescue
48 | L auraU
ADVERTISEMENT
5120 Woodway Suite 6001 Houston TX 77056 (713) 621-6609 Fax (713) 621-6679 1-800-255-5720
SMALL TO
S PACIOUS Imagine the perfect home, where everything has a place and every place its thing. Our lives have become so busy that our living spaces are cluttered with petty objects, magazines from a year ago, the endless stack of spam mail, and the hundreds of trinkets scattered around the house. It’s become a difficult task of keeping up with the ideal image of a perfectly organized home when our lives are constantly on the go. Here are a few tips that when used, makes a big difference for your living space.
Track lighting provides space th taken up. Don’t get us wrong, w them efficiently and place them of all natural lighting through w double the space of any area. Y room with bulbs that emit soft sh
COLOR
FURNITURE
Photos courtesy of Genuine Style, Arhzine Architecture, Giulio Manzoni and Pierluigi, and Elle Decor
Want to double dip? Well, lo in addition to its existing use. tom can hide those magazin night guests, then invest in also adds texture and color to
Stick with monochromatic colors to open up the space. Take advantage of our bright ideas in maximizing natural light sources, which lighter shades reflect. Don’t be worried about ending up with a bland room. However, do use bold colors in accessorizing your surroundings and whatever you do, keep the ceiling a neutral, light color. This opens up the room and also takes reflects natural and artificial light.
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Toasters, conventional ovens, blenders, mixers, the list is never ending. Just like your closet, toss any appliances you never use. If there’s anticipation of using a certain appliance, then store it near an outlet plug. This gives you easy access to your most loved appliances. Countertop spaces will also open up. You’ll thank us later.
FURNITURE
Furniture passed down from generation to generation never leaves your life. Toss the old and keep the new functionally arranged! Give your living space new life every once in a while with new furniture pieces that fit your décor.
TRINKETS
You can only put so many treasures in so many boxes. Filter through your trinkets and sentimental items you’ve been holding on for so long. For the ones you do end up keeping, store them in decorative boxes or your multi-functional furniture.
MAGAZINES
Magazine companies send you a new issue every month for a reason; so you can toss last month’s! Stay green and drop off old magazines in a recycling bin.
KITCHEN APPLIANCES
ook for pieces that function as storage . A coffee table with a shelf on the botnes you love. For those who love overa “functional” futon. Patterned futons o a monochromatic color theme.
Toss anything you haven’t worn in the last year. Chances are you won’t wear it again… EVER! Drop off last season’s wardrobe at a donation spot. Nothing beats a closet clean out more than knowing you are doing it for a worthy cause. Plus, you’ll have more room for all your new purchases.
CLOTHES
BRIGHT IDEAS
hat floor lighting would have otherwise we absolutely love floor lamps, but use m out of the walkway! Maximize the use windows and mirrors, which can visually You can also stretch the corners of your hades.
5 SPACE SAVING SOLUTIONS!
party | SCENE
A Barking Success - Part I Houston interior design firm and boutique, Laura U Collection, hosted a Fall Benefit for Scout’s Honor Rescue, an organization providing shelter for rescue cats and dogs in the greater Houston area. Guests of Laura U enjoyed an evening of dog inspired art and designs, featuring paint artist April Murphy of AEM Gallery, photographic artist Kim Hartz of Kim Hartz Photography, and dog couture designer Susie Tritter of DOGUE Design (pictured above from L to R). This trio of artists displayed paintings, photography, and pet couture at the Laura U Boutique all for a worthy cause. A portion of the sales were donated to the Scout’s Honor Rescue organization.
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community | SPOTLIGHT
DePelchin Children’s Center is committed to meeting the needs of Houston’s children. As the largest, most comprehensive provider of mental health prevention, early intervention, and child welfare services, they care for more than 25,000 children and their families each year. DePelchin offers a wide range of services including counseling, psychiatry, residential treatment, programs for at-risk youths, parent education, foster care, and adoption. Today, there are more than 30 programs available to children and families within schools, community sites, the main Houston campus, and in homes. DePelchin continues to be recognized at the state and national level for its cutting-edge programs, including being awarded as the leading child trauma expert in Texas. A non-profit organization serving Houston since 1892, DePelchin receives its support from government grants, United Way agencies, corporations, foundations, and individuals.
DEPELCHIN’S IMPACT
25,000 hours of counseling services were provided to 4,500 children and families.
More than over
95% of parents taking parenting skills classes reported improved relationships with their children.
103 children were places with permanent adoptive families.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact DePelchin at info@depelchin.org or Visit www.depelchin.org
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The Top 5
The holidays are here and its time for
Holiday Recipe Sites
something yummy to ring in the holiday cheer. From Bourbon
Food Network Not only does the Food Network have great shows to watch daily but they have an amazing selection of holiday recipes for you to choose from. Make sure to look up the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans and Marshmallow Streusel. They are divine and a great treat for the holidays.
spiked Bundt cakes to stuffed sweet potatoes, we have a few sites that are chock-full with recipes that will make your celebrations even sweeter. Here are a couple of Laura U favorites that
www.foodnetwork.com
we would like to share with you in the spirit of giving...
My Recipes Can I have the Chocolate-Espresso Torte with Raspberry Sauce, please? It looks and taste were to die for, then this recipe would certainly have you over the cliff. MyRecipes.com features the largest collection of professionally-tested recipes online. Sample recipes from food experts and cookbooks you love and trust. www.myrecipes.com
Cooking Light Most holiday recipes are made for dinner but the playful Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins from Cooking Light are perfect for breakfast or brunch. You can always be sure to find some deliciously, mouthwatering recipe on Cooking Light. Making your next scrumptious meal is only a click away.. www.cookinglight.com
Taste of Home
Martha Stewart
Taste of Home is a friendly exchange of authentic family-favorite recipes handed down over generations and shared among loved ones. One of our favorites is the Sweet 'n' Sassy Meatballs Recipe. While not a traditional holiday meal, this mouthwatering appetizer is great for any holiday party or gathering.
Martha Stewart has everything from A to Z, seriously! This one-stop, magical shop features great ideas and recipes for the holiday season. The Edible Chocolate Marshmallow Dreidels are devious and will give your holidays a chocolate-filled good time.
www.tasteofhome.com
www.marthastewart.com
FASHION
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