SNEAK PEEK INTO THE LAURA U SHOWROOM FABULOUS K’S FAVORITE THINGS
OCTOBER-December 2012 Issue 12
ECO|CHIC TIPS FROM NEW LIVING
WHERE IN THE WORLD: HOUSTON + It Takes a Village: the Laura U Team
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We are very proud to announce the awards we received at the 2012 ASID (TGCC) ceremony on October 13th, 2012:
WINNER
BEST OF SHOW
RESIDENTIAL|OVER 3,500 SQ . FT.
WINNER
HONORABLE MENTION
RESIDENTIAL| SINGULAR SPACE
RESIDENTIAL| KITCHEN
editorial features
36 TABLE OF CONTENTS
in every issue
03
ART TALK
18
50 CLIENT PICKS
CONNECT WITH US
06 LETTER FROM LAURA
08
DESIGNER FAVE’S
30 WISH WE DESIGNED
32 FABULOUS
GET THE LAURA U LOOK
shopping
24
28
BUNTING
52
MEET THE TEAM
IN STORE NOW
KYLE
12
K
40 PLACES WE GO
EASTERN INFLUENCE
14 OXBLOOD FEVER
16 GOING BAROQUE
46 NEW LIVING
Letter from Laura Umansky October - December 2012
Fabulous K
T
he fall season is both romantic and nostalgic to me. Like viewing a vintage photograph. In my mind, it is sepia toned and feels like coming home. It’s the reconnection to the world spurred by cooler weather and opened doors. It’s that we are suddenly surrounded by our scattered family members and all seated at the same table for a brief moment. I welcome fall wholeheartedly and am always a little sad to see it go.
T
his issue of the Laura U | Mag is a celebration of my favorite season. Classic-and-collected Chinoiserie, the rich hue of Oxblood, and the opulent and warm style of the neo-Baroque are all on our radar this fall (Fashion-to-Furnishings). The Laura U family is truly a creative force and we introduce you to them in It Takes a Village. We take you on a tour of our favorite après-work haunts in Where in the World: Houston (be sure to visit the cozy hearth at the Red Lion when the weather is crisp).
I
nside you’ll also find wonderful works by Nicola Parente (our uber-talented FallArtFare artist), musings by one of our favorite bloggers, Fabulous K, and new introductions from the creative world of Kyle Bunting. We are so thrilled to bring you the following pages! Enjoy!
Laura 06 LAURAU
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Our Contributor
2012
Kelly is a Dallasbased freelance graphic designer and the blogger behind Fabulous K. In addition to blogging + graphic design, she is a consultant in the fashion industry, working with designer showrooms and participating in buyer's markets. Her design aesthetic ranges from modern, editorial black & white to bold, bright colors and patterns.
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2012 October-December
IT TAKES A VILLAGE: THE LAUR
L AURA U MANSKY
K RISTINA W ILSON
From: New Braunfels, TX Fav. Restaurant: Brasserie 19 Sign: Scorpio
From: Lawrence, KS Fav. Restaurant: Underbelly Sign: Virgo
J ENNIFER B EBEE
L INHDA T RAN
From: Galveston, TX Fav. Restaurant: Food Trucks sign: Taurus 08 LAURAU
October-December 2012
From: Worcester, MA Fav. Restaurant: Banana Leaf Sign: Aquarius
A FTON B
From: Midl Fav. Restaurant: T Sign: Ta
M ELISSA M
From: Housto Fav. Restaurant sign: Ca
RA
U TEAM
B AILY
land, TX Tiny Boxwoods aurus
M EYER
on, Texas t: Houston’s ancer
C AROLYN M IGHELL From: Tupelo, MS Fav. restaurant: Bubba’s Burger Shack Sign: Scorpio
K IRSTIN T ATE
From: Anderson, Indiana Fav. Restaurant: Andalucia
F ABIAN S EGURA
From: Guadalajara, Mexico Fav. restaurant: Max’s Wine Dive Sign: Virgo
C ATHERINE S OLOMON
From: San Angelo, Texas Fav. Restaurant: Jus Mac Sign: Virgo 2012 October-December
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COMING SOON
More STUNNING Laura U Interiors. Stay up to date at LauraU.com!
T
he change in the season has us all wanting that next big thing. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
W
e’ve scoured the worlds of fashion & design for three of the biggest trends for Fall/Winter 2012: Eastern Influences, Baroque & Oxblood. Incorporate these into your home or closet today for a classically current look!
FASHION
to furnishings
EASTERN INFLUENCE Kudos to the East for inspiring our latest home decor & design. Right now we are particularly loving the look of high lacquer Asian inspired furniture and home goods!
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Current Chinoiserie
“Bamboo Curl” Mirror; $345; Horchow
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Agate Diamond Bangle
Hand shaped, polished, solid brass bar stool $295.25; Ross Simmons
October-December 2012
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Serpent Bar Stool
Hand Shaped, polished, solid brass bar stool; Kelly Wearstler
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Bungalow Chest
Bungalow 5 Jacqui 4 drawer Chest $1,690; Candelabra
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Colored Up Scarf
Patched Patterns Scarf $29; Anthropologie
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Christian Louboutin
Myriam 120 embosssed leather pumps; £765 Christian
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FAR EAST
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Bright Red Lamp
Avian Curiosities Shade; $118; Anthropologie
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Color Block Dress
Narciso Rodriguez textured crepe dress; $1,695; Net -A-Porter
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The Perfect Pillow
Embroidered Suzani Pillow via Levtex; $42; Nordstrom
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Sun Shades
Stella Mccartney Round frame sunglasses; $225; Net -A-Porter
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Fall Leaves Rug
Eastern Rugs Odyssey $641; Rug Studio
2012 October-December
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Asian Inspo. Cards
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Asian Motif Cards by Crane & Co.; $206; Neiman Marcus
OXBLOOD FEVER Beiber fever is the only thing that can compare to our Oxblood fever. We are loving wearing deep reds this season and look forward to expanding this color obsession into and around our homes.
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Wrap Me up
‘Ceinture’ leather belt by Chloe; $585; Net-A-Porter
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Top it off
Roller Bowler Hat; $52; TopShop
October-December 2012
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So Clutch
Miu Miu Madras leather clutch $750; Net-A-Porter
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Blood Red Stool
Jacob Counter Stool set of 2 $352; B&H Barstool
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Cropped Jacket
Clash Tar Blasted Jacket; $395; Kelly Wearstler
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A le $
OXBLOOD
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Zip me up Skirt
Alexander McQueen eather Zip Skirt $925; StyleBop
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Bangin’ Bootie
Alexander McQueen leather buckle boots $1,360; Ssense
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Loop Hoops
“Alexis Bittar ’Smokey Dust’ Drop Hoops; $62; Polyvore
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Nailed It
Chanel Nail Colour #18 VAMP $26; Nordstrom
2012 October-December
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Love & Life
Pocket Panama Notebook; $80; Smythson
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GOING BAROQUE It’s no joke that baroque is everywhere this year. We are expecting a full-out head to toe make-over in gold accented home and fashion accessories by the end of 2012.
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Sparkle City
Oscar De La Renta Printed Silk-Faille Skirt; $1190; Net-A-Porter
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iPAD Pizazz
‘40% off now VERSACE leather iPad case; $375; Net-A-Porter
October-December 2012
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Smoking Loafers
Leather baroque slippers; $298; Anthropologie
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Silver Drawers & Chest
Sylvia Silver Chest of Drawers £795; French Bedroom Co.
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Pillow Party
Baroque Dimensions Throw Pillow ; $69; High Fashion Home
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Bling it on
Baroque Drop Earrings; $275; Oscar De La Renta
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YSL Vio Neim
BAROQUE
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Nail Colour Envy
L La Lauque no15 olet Baroque; $25; man Marcus
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Sheer Beauty
Sophie Theallet Print silk top; $730; ShopBop
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Mirror Mirror
Purple Baroque Style Mirror; $495; Neiman Marcus
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Marc Jacobs Bag
‘Baroque quilted mini shoulder bag’; $795; Saks Fifth Avenue
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Shady Lady
Prada Round Sunglasses; $290; Nordstrom
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Pretty Plates
12 Piece Dinnerware; $160; Neiman Marcus
2012 October-December
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Designer Sele
amous cowhid taking his f heights with line. All pill tom colors and mono chic couch in ne
F
cted Sources:
de artists, Kyle Bunting, is favorite medium to new h his fabulous new pillow ows are available in cusograms. Perfect for any eed of a pick me up.
Inside the Laura U Showroom 1840 Westheimer in Houston has been the home of Laura U Interior Design and Collection for nearly five years . This is where all the magic happens.
“I wanted a creative workspace that was both inspired and inspiring. A studio surrounded by my favorite things was exactly right. At Laura U we strive for excellence in all that we do and the traditional office setup just was not going to cut it. This is a representation of our company and it had to be the perfect blend of luxury and youthful curiosity.� - Laura Umansky, Founder & President
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INSIDE THE LAURA U SHOW 5
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October-December 2012
1. Vintage Taxidermy Turkey This Vintage Turkey arrived appropriately in time for Thanksgiving . We consider him a honorary member of the Laura U Team. $220
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2. Monogram Pillows
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We are o.b.s.e.s.s.e.d. with our new pillows. Monogramming a pillow for a wedding, birthday, or baby shower might be our top gift pick, right now! $85
3. Vintage Brass Shrimp One of our most favored collections is our assortment of refurbished brass animals. This brass shrimp has been re-polished and sealed to bring out it's true brilliant shine. $165
4. Classic Cloth Books Hardcover, clothbound collection of some of the world’s favorite novels. Featuring gorgeous patterns stamped on linen cases, colored endpapers, and ribbon markers. $20/each
ROOM
5. Cowhide Rugs Embellish the interior of your home with this sumptuous Gris Grey Cowhide Natural Rug. Used as a cowhide, these rugs will give you years of beauty and durability. $750
6. Mid Century Modern Chair - w/ Thomas Paul fabric The Thomas Paul fabric couldn't be more beautiful in person. This cotton sapphire fabric complements the walnut stained legs perfectly. Get them as a pair & complete your living room. $1750
7. Missoni Stool
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Missoni is one of Italy’s top fashion designers and has one of the greatest fabric collections we've seen. This foot stool boast a creative design, making it a one of a kind accent piece. $280
2012 October-December
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Holy Stool, Large Neon Yellow
Style of Fontana Arte Pair
DESIGN Miu Miu, slipper Carl Aubock, vintage modernist coat hangers
kira-cph, runner rug
Anthropologie, Pillow
1st Karl Springer, Executive Piano Lacquered Desk
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October-December 2012
r of Sconces
Fort Standard, Necklace
West Avenue Jewelry, Monogram earrings
Jonathan Adler, Fish Bowl
L’Eclaireur, Ice Bucket
NER faves Misty by Julian Wolkenstein
Dering Hall, Odeon Plafonnier
t Dibs, Vintage plated chairs West Elm, Martini Side Table 2012 October-December
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Jim Thompson Fabrics
Watercolor
Rubelli Fabrics 30 LAURAU
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Rubelli Fabrics
r Fabrics
Jim Thompson Fabrics
2012 October-December
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W
hat inspired you to start your wildly successful blog? I started it on a whim, really. One of my friends had a blog, which was a totally new concept to me, and she encouraged me to start one as well. It slowly evolved into the blog it is today. What keeps you inspired? So many things! Fashion plays such a huge role in my life; I pull inspiration from glossy magazines, people on the street, and places I visit. I believe decor is fashion for your home, so trends in fashion often spill into other areas in my life. And of course, bloggers. How could you not be inspired by all the creative genius that floats around the internet every day?
Can you give us a peek into what your dream home would look like? W want to come across in your own dream home? My dream home would be a New York City. It would start with a bright door in an unexpected color. I'd (think whites and grays) paired with my signature pop of color here and ther comfortable and lived in, but still have a bit of modern edge. I really love pa
What are your five favorite design related products right now? Oh Joy' Wallpaper in White/Gold, Society Social's Mrs. Lilien Bar Cart, Dwell Stud tives, Jonathan Adler's 'K' letter pillow in Black, CB2's Pig Bookends. 32 LAURAU
October-December 2012
What style and tone would you a charming brownstone in d keep everything light and airy re. I would want it to feel airing the old with the new.
's Hygge & West Petal Pusher dio's Converge Brass Vo-
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What is the most exciting opportunity that has come along since you st ed your blog? I had the honor of participating in a Style Challenge for the Home Depot. They gave me a patio set for me to style and share how I used it. It was such a great experience and so much fun to put together. I'm excite to be participating in another one soon!
What do you do to unwind and relax in your spare time in Dallas? My t off is all about my family and friends! When I'm not working I'm spending t them and my pup, Tucker. On any typical Saturday, you'll find me at brunch or lunch with friends or my sister, followed by visiting my local favorite shop like Gray Living and The Frisco Mercantile.
What is your favorite room in your home? And why? My favorite is proba my office. It's where I spend the most time and is comfortable and functiona
What are your must have items for F/W 2012? Candles. Illume's Heirloo Pumpkin is my fall scent, and I love the Balsam & Cedar for winter.
y’s Some of Kell gs... Favorite Thin
tart-
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Your Favorite‌ Interior Designers: Beth Dotolo and Carolina V Gentry of Pulp Designs and Abbe Fenimore of Studio Ten 25 Fashion Designers: Tory Burch and Diane Von Furstenburg Blogs: Luella & June, Mrs. Lilien, iSuwannee, Cupcakes and Cashmere Place to Vacation: New York City Trend this Season: Bold, graphic wallpaper Trend You Want to See Come to an End: Anything in "tangerine tango". Restaurant in Dallas: Mi Cocina. They have the best margaritas!
ART TALK:
N
icola Parente creates expressive abstract paintings and photography from his studio in Houston, Texas. Born in Italy, he draws from his rich Italian heritage and a deep well of cross-cultural experiences to bring his art to life. Working in a variety of media, he en-
gages the viewer in dialogues of human encounter within the urban environment. Inspired by changes in metropolitan communities, his art defines the intersections of daily urban life and timeless multicultural celebration. His paintings capture the fluidity and static elements of the urban matrix, referencing the architectonic images, reflections, and rhythms of its landscape. If you’d like to meet Nicola and/or learn more about his art, then you are in luck. He will be our featured artist this year at the FallArtFare on October 24th, 2012!
Bishangari (Cat # 12-493) Non-manipulated archival inkjet print on metallic paper Limited Edition 1/7 16" x 24 $1,700
Bishangari (Cat # 12-492) Non-manipulated archival inkjet print on metallic paper Limited Edition 1/7 16" x 24 $1,700
Bishangari (Cat # 12-497), 2011 Non-manipulated archival inkjet print on metallic paper Limited Edition 1/7 20" x 30" $2,400
0
6:00 A.M. Lauds, 2011 (Cat # 11-421) Acrylic, ink, charcoal powder on panel 84" x 60" $18,000
Adagio, 2012 (Cat # 12-504) Acrylic, ink, charcoal powder on panel 48" x 48" $9.500
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WHERE IN THE WORLD: HOUSTON LAURA U’S APRES-WORK FAVES
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October-December 2012
#1
PAULIE’S
1834 Westheimer Just a hop and a skip away from our studio you’ll find one of our favorite go-to bistros on Westheimer. Paulie’s is the perfect remedy for any sweet tooth, empty stomach, or caffeine insufficiency. Stop by and pick up one of their delish cappuccinos (like mine pictured above). Mondays are just a little easier with one of these on your desk.
2012 October-December
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#2
RED LION
2316 S. Shepard
We stopped by this chic "dive" for drinks post-work one day and we’ve loved it since. The atmosphere is great, but the food and cocktails keep us coming back for more.
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October-December 2012
#3
ANVIL
1424 Westheimer You'll find us at Anvil on Tuesdays! From 4 p.m. 'till midnight the whole menu at Anvil is half off, with no exceptions. Get one of those delish roulette pizzas that pairs perfectly with any of their specialty martinis!
2012 October-December
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#4 BRASIL
2604 Dunlavy
It’s the live music, extensive food menu, creative specials, & cozy interior that stretches visits with friends past the "happy" hour. Brasil promises a relaxed experience of dining, wine-ing, and patio-sitting. Be sure to try their mouth watering pizzas!
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#5 ST. GENEVIEVE
2800 Kirby
St. Genevieve is definitely one of our fave’s (cough-cough, a Laura U Design, cough). When there's a DJ, the place can get pretty rowdy…but who doesn’t love a jammin’ happy hour?
2012 October-December
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We have asked local business New Living to give us the low down on what makes a home healthy. They specialize in non toxic home items (from paint to tiles) to ensure that you and your little ones are not susceptible to many of the toxic products that are installed in homes every day. New Living is the first to say that no one solution fits all for ensuring a healthy home, but they have given us 5 questions to ask ourselves.
1. Are you sleeping healthy? You spend one-third of your life in bed! Traditional mattresses contain toxic flame retardants, and petroleum-based memory foam mattresses have been found to off-gas numerous toxic chemicals, some of them carcinogenic. Does this sound like a place where you’d like to spend 20 to 30 years? Organic, natural, and non-toxic mattresses are a safer alternative, and come in many different feels, and at many different price points. If you are in the market for a new mattress, these are definitely worth considering. Of course, look for organic or natural linens as well!
2. Are you breathing healthy? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ranked indoor air pollution among the top five environmental dangers to the public. Poor indoor air quality can contribute to problems like allergies, asthma, and, according to the American Lung Association, even lung cancer. It can also exacerbate conditions like autism, cancer, and multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). You should also pay attention to the materials used in the finished products you buy. Watch out for recently refinished products, though! 46 LAURAU
October-December 2012
3. Is your water healthy? In recent years, there has been a growing awareness about water quality issues. Many Houstonians probably don’t know that Houston has been found to have some of the worst water quality in the country. Additionally, the chemicals that Houston chooses to use to clean our water may have harmful effects of their own. While chlorine has traditionally been used to sterilize water, chloramine (a combination of chlorine and ammonia) has recently been introduced in Houston. Both chlorine and chloramine have been found to be respiratory irritants, and some studies suggest other long term health effects. Luckily for Houstonians, Al McDonald of AMAC water supply has developed a whole-house water filtration system that is tailored to Houston’s water. A whole-house water filter cleans the water you drink -- and all other water that comes into your house. This is important because in a 15-minute shower, you absorb as many chemicals as you would from drinking half a gallon of water!
4. Are you painting healthy? When you repaint, you consider the effect that a new color will have on your home. Why not also consider the effects of the new toxins you are introducing to the air you breathe? Traditional paints are so toxic that painters are the only professionals in the construction industry with a demonstrably lower life expectancy. This is because of the toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in traditional oil-based paints such as bezene and formaldehyde. In most cases, natural paints (which are water or plant based) can do the job just as well, without the added health effects. Our NOVOC paint, as well as paints by Mythic and Anna Sova, contain none of these harmful VOCs. For masonry, wood, and metals, we recommend using our LOVOC (low-VOC) paint.
New Living’s Custom Furniture Made of Recycled, Reclaimed and Green Materials
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5. Are you shopping healthy? If you are a DIY family, make sure to choose materials and finishes that are low-VOC. Products like stains, caulk, adhesives, sealants, and shellac are far often more toxic than even traditional paint. We always like to remind people of the importance of looking at a project holistically. For instance, if you chose to buy a non-toxic flooring material, don’t undo yourself by using traditional adhesives or sealants! You should also pay attention to the materials used in the finished products you buy. Because much of a product's off-gassing occurs in the first few weeks, buying second-hand can limit -- although not eliminate -- the amount of chemicals brought into your home.
Look familiar? That’s because this is the lunch counter at Pondicheri in West Ave. The counter is made of New Living’s decompose: a green cement made from recycled, non-toxic glass.
SPECIAL ORDER THROUGH LAURA U, INC.
Horchow Turquoise Drape Chandelier
Can you say...
COLOR Floating 2012, Yangyang Pan
Trina Turk pillows
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Laura U Antique Mirror Chest
Pinning & Pining
What Our Client’s Love
Now Valentino, Rockstud Dome Bag
R?
Jimmy Choo Zebra Print Pumps
Dolce & Gabbana, Flower Print Cap Sleeve Dress
2012 October-December
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The young couple requested a unique design based primarily on one of their favorite places to stay while in the city: the infamous Crosby Hotel, located a block away. They wanted to create a space that not only featured an eclectic mix of patterns, colors and textures but one that also incorporated their collection of vintage and antique furnishings. The design team at Laura U worked diligently to have their clients’ personalities reflected in the design of the space. They accomplished this by relying heavily on custom furnishings, multiple wall coverings and upholstered wall treatments. The design is a perfect balance between the clean, modern style of the home and the layered, whimsical style of the “Electric Grandma” concept. 52 LAURAU
October-December 2012
Get the Laura U|Look
Laura U|Soho Loft Project 2012 October-December
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“Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man.� Benjamin Franklin
See you in January 2013