laura u|mag jan-march issue

New Year ISSUE

+PLUS ROMANTIC WRITING DESKS

Capturing the moment DAVID SUTHERLAND

WHAT’S HOT? PANTONE’S 2012 COLOR OF THE YEAR

Jan--mar 2012

Volume II | Issue 7

SHOPLAURAU.COM

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Publisher’s Note

January - March 2012

I want to begin the New Year with a much-deserved “Thank you”. It is because of you that 2011 was such a success for our team

at Laura U! As we enter into our 5th year (how time flies!) it is with a great deal of excitement that I introduce the “New Year” issue

of Laura U | Mag. 2011 was a banner year for our firm, our boutique, and our magazine. Our readership increased exponentially in

2011 thanks to our loyal readers, our wonderful contributors, and the tireless team behind the production of each issue.

Because we are an interior design firm producing a quarterly magazine, we happily spend our moments collecting the best and

brightest of what’s new in the world of design. On a daily basis we are sourcing fabrics, furnishings, lighting and everything interi-

or. Our magazine allows us to take a broader approach to design by linking to other industries, from fashion to tech. This way of

working influences the way we think about everything in our business and allows for a more inclusive view of design. We are so

thankful to have an outlet to share all of the findings that thrill us every day.

As with years past, our plans are colossal for the New Year! With the launch of 2012 there is much happening at Laura U. Every

January means that new interior projects are commencing, events are being planned, and market trips are being booked. Our

brand new ecommerce site is in full swing and has “opened” to rave reviews! If you haven’t yet stopped by, please visit

www.shoplaurau.com.

It is because of your incredible support that we are able to do all of these things. We hope you enjoy our latest effort: the “New

Year” Issue of the Laura U | Mag!

Cheers to a creative 2012!

Laura

Laura Umansky

President & Creative Director

“new year issue”

4 | 5 |

editorial features

Aidan Gray

Valentine’s Day: Designer Style

Want This Look?

David Sutherland

Neutrals: Furnishings & Accessories

Romantic Writing Desks

What’s Hot in Interior Design

Get The Look

Recipe Fave: Pink Passion Cupcakes

Pretty in Pink

Color Me Coral

Haute Pink

Code Red

What’s Hot: Health & Beauty

Gifts for Her

Gifts for Him

Laura’s | Picks

Editor’s | Picks

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50

56

58

26

64

66

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60

Pretty in Pink

Color Me Coral

Haute Pink

Code Red

What’s Hot: Health & Beauty

Gifts for Her

Gifts for Him

Laura’s | Picks

Editor’s | Picks

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16

18

20

30

42

44

40

32

shopping

6 | 7 |

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www.SHOPLAURAU.COM

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Karee…

S Letter from the EDITOR

January is the proverbial month of

change and inspiration. We get

through the year before doing

everything we can to succeed and

have a life with intention, and then

December 31st hits and we get

even more motivated. Maybe it’s

because we have an insurmount-

able feeling of new beginnings, a

feeling that with another year

comes another opportunity to get

it right, or even to do it better. For

most of us, January marks the beginning of new life, new op-

portunities and a whole new you. While for others, January is

simple a continuation of the year before.

At Laura U, January marks the beginning of, “WOW, we made it

through another amazingly busy year and we have another

chance to do what we love every single day.” Coincidentally,

speaking of changes, we decided to change the magazine up

just a bit - we want this and every other issue to be about giving

you, our audience, exactly what you thought a magazine pub-

lished by a design firm would be. So, look out for a quarterly

issue filled with great new design products, design how-to’s,

ideas for your mini-home makeover and lots more.

It also just so happens that while getting this issue together, we

couldn’t help but notice all the great new changes happening

around our city. New shops and boutiques opening and great

new restaurants on the horizon. You can’t help but to love this

great city and you certainly can’t help but love the opportunities

we get each and every day!

Here’s to a fabulous new year and here’s to all our great read-

ers and supporters!

Jan-March 2012

our contributors

Shannon Ables is the crea-

tor and editor of The Simply

Luxurious Life blog, as well

as a freelance writer and

high school English teacher.

Now living in a rural town

after moving from the met-

ropolitan life in Portland,

she has discovered that a

simply luxurious life is some-

thing that everyone can attain if indeed one is

seeking quality rather than quantity, deca-

dence rather than frivolity, personal style in-

stead of trendy fashions and a truly fulfilling life

instead of being led around by the nose. So

whether it be found in food, fashion, or home

decor, contentment, pleasure and a stylishly

fulfilling life can be cultivated.

Since she was introduced

to thrifting by her

late Grandmother and

Aunt, Tonia has devel-

oped a fascination for all

things vintage. This passion

led her to dabble in interi-

or design, decorating

and writing. A self pro-

claimed professional thrifter and stylist, there is

no singular title that encompasses all she

knows, can do, has done or aim to do. She sets

her own trends and styles without question. Be-

cause of this passion, she created Chic Modern

Vintage, an online place that connects her to

everything she enjoys. She loves rare vintage

treasures, creative people, good vodka, great

food, beautiful clothes, Prince, and old movies.

10| 11|

http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com

http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com

http://www.chicmodernvintage.com

http://www.chicmodernvintage.com

Want to find chic

accessories like

me? then check

out what’s in

store at Laura U!

10| 11|

12|

SHOP BRILLIANTLY. FIND THE GOODS. BE INSPIRED. FRINGE STUDIO, LAURA U COLLECTION BETSEY JOHNSON, ROBERTO CAVALLI, LINEA PELLE, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI, OUR FAVORITE FINDS ALL IN ONE PLACE. KEITH MOORE, KENDRA SCOTT, WILDFOX, CHAN LUU, REBECCA MINKOFF. WHERE FASHION MEETS FURNISHINGS. WE LOVE IT! ENJOY FALL FASHION

WHERE FASHION meets furnishings

1

2 3

6

7 8

14| 15 |

1. Fornasetti Coaster, $83

2. Christian Louboutin by Christian Louboutin Hardcover Book, $150

3. Z Gallerie Empire Mirror, $400

4. Kimberly McDonald Rose Gold Chain Bracelet With Geode And

Diamonds, $3115

5. Au Jour Le Jour Faux-Fur Collar Coat, $715

6. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Bomblicious Scented Candle, $65

7. Miu Miu Matelassé leather clutch, $510

8. Baccarat Collectible Figurine Pink Pig, $195

9. Fendi Apricot Suede Gold Trim T-Strap Platform Pumps, $410

4

5

9

14| 15 |

1. Trina Turk Avenida Maze Embroidered Pillow in Pink and

Mango, $143

2. Halston Heritage Gathered Waist Dress, $662

3. Jonathan Adler Carnaby Flame Mug, $18

4. Jonathan Adler Brass Muse Bottle Opener, $98

5. Robert Abbey Delta Table Lamp in Schiaparelli Pink, $150

6. Swoon Gems Coral Post Earrings, $64

7. Zaire in Coral Kendra Scott, $138

8. Maxwell & Williams Infusions Coral 1.2L Teapot, $20

9. Downtown French Arm Chairs in the manner of Jean

Charles Moreux, Price Upon Request

10. Yves Saint Laurent Golden Shimmering Lip Gloss, $30

11. Reed Krakoff Boxer 1 Leather Tote, $1389

1

2

8

9

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3

4

5

6

7

10

11

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1. Charles Albert Pink Natural Jasper Adjustable Ring,

$165

2. Designer Fluff Pink Flame Pillow, $262

3. Diane von Furstenberg Sun Candle, $65

4. Laura U Collection Maharani Chandelier, $4,863

5. Emilio Pucci Python Shoulder Bag, $2,850

6. Michael by Michael Kors Logo Plaque Belt, $42

7. Jonathan Adler– Mod Animals Highball Glass, $11

8. B Brian Atwood Frederique Python Printed Suede

Pump, $325

9. Laurel Crown Furniture Pink Chaise, $1,740

10. Jonathan Adler Hot Pink and Natural Nixon Throw, $295

1

8

3

2

18| 19 |

10

9

7 5

6

4

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1

8

7

4

3

2

1. Miu Miu Wallet, $415

2. Elephant Heart- Sunset Earrings, $98

3. Z Gallerie Ruby Nasha Pillow, $69.95

4. DKNY Sleeveless Color Block Dress, $345

5. Arteriors Hill Table Lamp, $545

6. Diane von Furstenberg Radiant Lacquer Coasters, $35

7. John Derian Co. Handmade Moroccan Pouf, $295

8. Just Morocco Roja Tea Glasses, $30

9. Diane von Furstenberg iPhone 4 case, $50

10. Z Gallerie Francesca Headboard, $450

8.

.

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6

5

9

10

The Aidan Gray line represents Randal Week’s love for interiors, design and authentic products that exude

“European Grandeur.” The founding partners’ desire for products made by hand and with authentic materials such

as solid wood, rustic metals, antique mirror, old painted finishes and silk appointments drives product development.

Seven years after its founding, Randal continues to streamline the look and feel of the company with an ever

expanding line. The company has become known for exceptional quality, detail oriented products and unparal-

leled customer service.

22 | 23 |

WANT THIS LOOK?

The Aidan Gray line represents Randal Week’s love for interiors, design and authentic products that exude

“European Grandeur.” The founding partners’ desire for products made by hand and with authentic materials such

as solid wood, rustic metals, antique mirror, old painted finishes and silk appointments drives product development.

Seven years after its founding, Randal continues to streamline the look and feel of the company with an ever

expanding line. The company has become known for exceptional quality, detail oriented products and unparal-

leled customer service.

22 | 23 |

Phillip’s Collection Sheep

Now Available at Laura U Collection

Photography by Andrew Kung for

Sophisticated Living Magazine

24 | 25 |

What’s Hot: NOW! 24 | 25 |

1.

5.

What’s Hot: BIRDS

6.

26 | 27 |

2.

1. Flamingo Wallpaper, Cole & Sons

2. Ostrich Table, Global Views

3. Cockatoos Decorative Pillow, John Robshaw

4. Weaver Bird Curtain, Anthropologie

5. Peacock Chair, Haute House

6. Sculptural Shore Bird Lamp, Regina Andrew

7. Wood Tray Square Vintage Blossom, Dwell Studio

8. Bird Melamine Plates, West Elm

9. Tower Birdcage, Laura U Collection Showroom

8.

7.

3. 4.

26 | 27 |

9.

1. Tangerine Cindy Lamp by Kartell

2. Dwell Studio Labyrinth Persimmon Throw

Pillow, ABC Home

3. Orange Gelato Coasters, Z Gallerie

4. Jackie O Poster, CB2

5. Enamel Queen Anne Orange Frame,

Jonathan Adler

6. Orange PomPom Throw, Laura U Collection

7. Memoranda Diary in Orange, Smythson

8. Parlour Tangerine Ottoman, CB2

9. Maren Orange Candlesticks, Bliss Living Home

10. Armless Canary Upholstered Slipper Chair, QVC

What’s Hot: PANTONE 2012 COLOR OF THE YEAR: TANGERINE TANGO

1.

2.

3.

4.

8.

28 | 29 |

What’s Hot: PANTONE 2012 COLOR OF THE YEAR: TANGERINE TANGO

5.

6.

7.

9.

10.

28 | 29 |

1

3

2

8

9

10

Our top health & beauty picks that will cure all your winter blues.

What’s Hot: HEALTH & BEAUTY

30 | 31|

1. Chanel - No. 5, $64

2. MAC - Gleeful Blush, $22

3. Chanel - Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Color, $32

4. Tweezerman - Slant Tweezer - $20

5. Cetaphil - Gentle Skin Cleanser - $10

6. OPI Classic Shades Nail Lacquer - I'm Not Really a Waitress, $8

7. John Frieda Frizz-Ease - Hair Serum, Original Formula, $7

8. Neutrogena - Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 15, $13

9. Maybelline - Great Lash Washable Mascara, $6

10 . Clinique - Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, $25

4

5

7

6

10

Our top health & beauty picks that will cure all your winter blues.

30 | 31|

JE T’AIME PARIS! “Editor’s Picks”

Coco Chanel Madem Moiselle Parfum

$120

Ruby Teardrop Earrings

Kenneth Jay Lane

$150

La Vie Boho Dessert Plates

Rosanna Inc.

$56

1.

2.

6.

5.

Wool Blazer

Alexander McQueen

$1985

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

32 | 33 |

Algonquin Table Lamp Shop Laura U

$120

Lady Peep

Christian Louboutin

$945

Flourish Mirror

Christopher Guy

Price Upon Request

The Parisian Guide to Chic:

Style Secrets from Ines de la Fressan-ge $20

La Vie Boho Dessert Plates

Rosanna Inc.

$56

8.

7.

4. 3.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

32 | 33 |

1. Cardinal Table Lamp

The perfect mercury glass

table lamp! With a linen

shade and brushed nickel

accents, this is one of our fa-

vorite items at the Laura U

Collection! $280

What’s Hot: IN STORE @ LAURA U!

1

4 5

2

2. Cross Base Foot Stool

This square ottoman features

nail heads around the base

of the tan upholstery and

crossed wooden legs. A per-

fect companion to any clas-

sic armchair! $207

3. Europa Chandelier

A classic empire shape is translat-

ed into something extra special

with the use of wooden beads. This

chandelier will add a dramatic

touch to any living, dining or bed-

room! Features a special Spanish

gilt and gold leaf finish. Made of

wrought iron and wood. $1,440

4. Gold Bamboo Table

This vintage gold bamboo

table with glass top will add

a unique ethnic side to your

space! Use as an accent ta-

ble in your living room, home

office or as a side table in

your bedroom. $565

34 | 35 |

6 7

3

4. Gold Bamboo Table

This vintage gold bamboo

table with glass top will add

a unique ethnic side to your

space! Use as an accent ta-

ble in your living room, home

office or as a side table in

your bedroom. $565

5. Carved Wood Bird Clip

These expressive wooden

bird clips are hand-carved

from basswood and fitted

with brass clips instead of

feet. Each bird comes

perched in an individual gift

box, suitable for display. $19

6. Golden Fig Vases

A familiar fruit is preserved in

porcelain and finished in

matte gold in this sweet trio

of sculptural vases. $80

7. Vintage Tomlinson Chair

This fabulous vintage Tomlin-

son chair was found on

Craigslist. Low slung, cane

back, great shape– fab!

$600

34 | 35 |

Laurie Perez Photography is the result of a genuinely talented photographer, Laurie Perez whose

broad body of work continues to garner attention in Houston. Her studio is located in the heart of

downtown Houston and with a diverse portfolio to boot, she is an eagerly sought after talent

whose unique and timeless photographic approach can be seen in her work. Laurie

applies a skillful eye to her work that is always is fresh and inimitable. Her photographic talents are

limitless because of her uncanny ability to capture all genres of photography from artistic, to life-

style and also a full range of conceptual work. When shooting in the wedding industry, Laurie pre-

fers to take a personal approach to producing wedding photographs for brides and grooms. It is

not uncommon for her to personalize the experience for the bride to allow the bride’s visual con-

cepts to be brought to life. Laurie also caters to the interior/commercial photography by being

able to change the focus of the lens into capturing every detail that makes an interior unique.

Every shot is done with distinct precision; and the final product is one with which the moment will

be captured in a life-like form.

By partnering with some of Houston’s most talented Bridal event planners, like Roberto Carlos of

Emmanuel Events, Laurie has also been able to capture a great some of Houston’s young and

vibrant brides.

featuring Laurie Perez CAPTURING THE MOMENT

“Lifestyle, Conceptual, Artistic” 36 |

With Laurie Perez Photography, a client can always expect an embodiment of lush,

unprecedented portraits of beauty and romance, a mastery sure to capture the attention of all.

36 |

Laura’s PICKS

2.

1. Par is ian Insp irat ion

3. 4.

40| 41|

6.

5.

40| 41|

1. Bouquet Maison de Luxe Pillow, $135, LDC Home

2. Parisian Pink Glassware, $56 , Rosanna

3. French Brass Bar Cart, Price Upon Request, 1stdibs

4. Isabella Room Screen, $4,030, Arteriors

5. Paris Nest Shannon Vase, $30, Fringe Studio

6. Versailles Chandelier, $3,118, Arteriors

Mirrored Room Screen

Linen bouquet embroidered front 22x22 pillow.

Versatile vintage bar cart with reeded bars, fleurettes and gallery edges.

6-Light, blue, silver, crystal and painted iron chandelier

Trapezoid vase with floral, bird and nest motif.

The vintage mold from the early 20th century make this set of 4 7 oz. ornate glasses instantly

collectible.

These soiree set of glasses started as clear

glassware that were dipped into translu-

cent color. The chic and unique glasses

will jazz up any gathering or soiree.

Soiree Glass - Set of 4

Roost, $72

Voluspa Maison Saijo Persimmon

candle is considered to be the

finest gourmet variety, layered

with peach and red currant.

Voluspa Saijo Persimmon

Ceramica Alta Maison

Candle15oz.,$27

GIFT GUIDE FOR HER

A blend of porcelain flowers and

leaves surround the romantic

frame as it sits elegantly on a

dresser, or table or a beautiful

reminder of loved ones in a tradi-

tional and contemporary design.

Floral Garden

Porcelain Frame 5x7

Lazy Susan, $93 You can never go wrong with gifting

a beautiful vase. Especially if some-

thing even more beautiful is inside.

Silver Monarch Ceramic Vase

Lazy Susan, $238

This lovely set of 3 parfum in Cleopatra,

Stella and Florence scents in old world in-

spired beautifully collectible bottles make

the perfect gift for that special someone.

Cleopatra, Stella, Florence

Tocca Parfum, $45

42 | 43 |

A blend of porcelain flowers and

leaves surround the romantic

frame as it sits elegantly on a

dresser, or table or a beautiful

reminder of loved ones in a tradi-

tional and contemporary design.

Floral Garden

Porcelain Frame 5x7

Lazy Susan, $93

This red flower magnet is handmade

and hand painted by artisans in Mexi-

co. It would make a pretty, colorful,

and useful gift.

Red Flower Magnet

Stray Dog Designs, $29

Abigail's Giant Fruit Compote has

gorgeous aesthetic appeal, taking

center stage on a tabletop when

filled with fresh fruit or any décor

objects.

Giant Fruit Compote - Abigail's, $195

Give the gift of fashion! This one-of-a

- kind statement necklace is made

of reclaimed fabric and is also avail-

able in purple.

Necklace Reclaimed Fabric Discos

Karma Living, $75

This lovely set of 3 parfum in Cleopatra,

Stella and Florence scents in old world in-

spired beautifully collectible bottles make

the perfect gift for that special someone.

Cleopatra, Stella, Florence

Tocca Parfum, $45

42 | 43 |

Stunning silver sculpted into a pattern

inspired by the bark of the Everglades,

makes this enchanting frame a favor-

ite. Surround your best photo with so-

phisticated and organic texture.

Aluminum Bark Frame

Lazy Susan, $53

Combine high style and fun colors

and what do you get? These design-

er embellished down-filled pillows

with an embroidered sunburst design

of course! Works well both inside and

out.

Turquoise Sunburst Embroidered Pillow

Trina Turk, $104

GIFT GUIDE FOR Him

Equestrian elegance exudes

from a bookshelf decorated with

this Amir stallion statue. Captured

in a sculpture of high-gloss white

resin on a white base, this is a

great addition to your bookshelf.

Amir Resin Stallion Lazy Susan, $242

This luxurious candle has a blend

of Italian Mandarin Orange tops

a cream heart of Vanilla

Cinnamon, finished with

Nutmeg & Stem Ginger.

Voluspa Mandarino Cannela

Classic Maison Candle, $27

44 | 45 |

Our chrome canister with lid is

perfect for kitchen use! Tons of

style and functionality.

Ceramic Chrome Canister Cyan Design, $46

Combine high style and fun colors

and what do you get? These design-

er embellished down-filled pillows

with an embroidered sunburst design

of course! Works well both inside and

out.

Turquoise Sunburst Embroidered Pillow

Trina Turk, $104

Let your man enjoy the Zinc

Alphabet on Stands Set in his

home today! Weathered Zinc

letters on stands will add a

whimsical element to his

decor.

Zinc Alphabet on Stands

Aidan Gray, $270

Made from hand-worked Borosilicate glass,

this assortment of textured, clear vessels can

serve as stylish drink ware or a special col-

lection of vases. Each glass in the set of six

features a unique pattern.

Dainty Flutes

Roost, $53

Give the gift of comfort.

Teegan Throw comes

in Ivory & Green.

Teegan Throw in Green

Surya, $53

GIFT GUIDE FOR Him

44 | 45 |

Scalamandre Zebra Umbrella

46 | 47|

VALENTINE’S DAY! “Laura U Design Team Picks ”

Alexander McQueen Sculpted

Resin and leather sandals

Serpent Sea Mats

Digby & Iona Diamond

Signet Ring

Deborah Lippmann It’s

Raining Men Nail Polish

46 | 47|

Alexander McQueen Sculpted

Resin and leather sandals

Zig Zag Tray, Etsy

Serpent Sea Mats

Blossom for Iphone

St. Kilda Long Matchstick Earrings

John Reeves Design Zinc Kissing

Bench-ABC Home

48 |

ADVERTISEMENT

5002 Westheimer Rd

Houston, TX 77056

48 |

http://www.bambihanna.com/

54 | 55 |

David Sutherland: An eye for bold, clean lines

54 | 55 |

David Sutherland not only has an eye for spotting fresh talent but also a history of collaborating with regional designers to pro-

duce furnishings exclusive to the showroom. David Sutherland showrooms are full-service multi-line collections of the world’s

finest furniture, fabric and accessory manufacturers. In addition to the core lines of Sutherland and Perennials, every David

Sutherland showroom offers premiere lines chosen specifically for their individual markets. Whether your project is for indoors

or outdoors, residential or contract, David Sutherland is ready to assist design professionals in specifying just the right ele-

ments to make it happen. David Sutherland has showrooms in New York, Los Angeles, Dania, Dallas, Houston and Chicago.

54| 55 |

You might like a contemporary style of decorating if you

like to keep current with styles, enjoy things that are

modern, of today, right now. While it's been thought that

modern interiors are cold and minimalist, today's contem-

porary interiors are comfortable and welcoming without

being cluttered and dark. It's a style that is equally appro-

priate for offices and stores, lofts and homes.

A contemporary style home can be a quiet and comforta-

ble retreat. To achieve the look of a contemporary home,

it's important to stick to some basic rules. Fundamentally,

simplicity, subtle sophistication, texture and clean lines

help to define contemporary style decorating. Interiors

showcase space rather than things. By focusing on color,

space, and shape, contemporary interiors are sleek and

fresh. Neutrals, black, and white are the main colors in

contemporary style interiors. The palette is often punched

up and accented with a bright and bold color. Black or a

dark palette is often used to ground and define a contem-

porary style room. With walls painted in a basic neutral,

you have a wonderful backdrop for bold, colored accesso-

ries. If the walls and windows are painted in pastels, the

trims should be neutral. If a wall is a bright, bold color, neu-

trals should be used everywhere else. Having fun creating

the space of your dreams is the most important factor

when designing.

Neutrals: Furnishings and Accessories How to decorate in a contemporary style!

Written by Laura U Editor/ Art Direction/ Editing by Laura U Editor

57 |

Written by Laura Umansky/ Art Direction by Laura U Editor

“She walks in beauty, like the night.

Of cloudless climes and starry skies:

And all that's best of dark and

bright Meet in her aspect and her

eyes.”

She Walks in Beauty

Lord Byron (1788-1824)

There is something inherently romantic about a writing desk. I am not sure what it is, but a great writing desk makes

me want to bring out a fine piece of stationery or a journal and compose. Pictured are some of our favorite interiors

where writing desks were incorporated into the clients home. Here are also some of our favorite writing desks.

The Brigitte Desk, Bungalow 5,

Lacquer Finish with Silver Tassel Pull

58| 59 |

“She walks in beauty, like the night.

Of cloudless climes and starry skies:

And all that's best of dark and

bright Meet in her aspect and her

eyes.”

She Walks in Beauty

Lord Byron (1788-1824)

58| 59 |

The Mosaic Desk, Anthropologie

The Phillip Wood Desk, Arteriors Home

Red Lacquer, 3 Drawer The Antique Desk, Christopher Guy

The Saba Walnut Solids/Mirror/Brass Dressing Table Waxed Walnut/Plain/Antique Brass, 2 Drawer

60| 61 |

The Phillip Wood Desk, Arteriors Home

Red Lacquer, 3 Drawer

The Saba Walnut Solids/Mirror/Brass Dressing Table Waxed Walnut/Plain/Antique Brass, 2 Drawer

The Collette Vanity/ Desk, Bungalow 5,

Faux Bamboo Metal and Antique Gold Finish

The Harrison Three Drawer Writing Table, Hickory Chair

60| 61 |

NOW Available at Laura U Collection

Get the Look

This young couple wanted to design their pied-a-terre in a very short

timeframe. Starting with a clean-line kitchen with LED backsplash,

white lacquer floors, and custom furnishings, a contemporary and

unexpected home away from home was created in a mere two

months. The white walls were implemented as a contrast to the bold

colors and graphic prints that are brought in the room through ac-

cessories and art pieces. The client is an avid contemporary art col-

lector, so it was natural that the color schemes from their acquisitions

were brought to life in the space. Colorful, woven fabrics in the main

living space are a nice foil to the serene master and guest bed-

rooms.

64| 65 |

Della Robbia with Missoni Fabric

Upholstered Chair

Custom Elizabeth Paige Smith

Cocktail Table

B&B Italia Sofa

ROOM DECORATING IDEAS

64| 65 |

Custom Furniture Bench

Phillips Collection Dining Chairs

Tara Conley Art

Custom Missoni Pillows

B&B Italia Sofa

We brought a favorite back: make this Valen-

tine’s Day extra special with a fabulous cup-

cake that everyone will rave about. These ador-

able, whimsical pink cupcakes are a sweet

treat, perfect for ending your Valentine’s Day

meal. They are made with a strawberry cake

that’s topped with a sweet Strawberry frosting.

Pink Passion Cupcakes

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Ingredients:

1 18.25-ounce box white cake mix

1 ¼ cup water

1/3 cup strawberry jam or preserves

3 large eggs

Strawberry Frosting (see recipe)

Red candy melts (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. You’ll need two 12-muffin

cup tins. Line each of the 24 muffin/cupcake cups with paper

cupcake liners. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, strawberry

jam/preserves, and eggs. Use a hand-mixer to beat softly at the

lowest setting for about 30 seconds. Then, increase the hand-

mixer speed to the medium setting and beat the batter for 2

minutes, until well combined.

3. Divide the batter evenly among the 24 muffin cups. You want

to fill each cup about 2/3 full.

4. Slide the cupcake pans into the preheated oven. Bake for 18

- 20 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come

out cleanly.

5. Allow the cupcakes to fully cool before frosting. Once they

are completely cooled, frost with Strawberry Frosting.

6. If you want to make a heart shaped cupcake topper, pre-

pare a sheet of waxed paper on your work surface. Melt the

red candy melts in the microwave (20 seconds, stir, 20 seconds,

stir, repeat until smooth). Then, form thick heart shapes on the

waxed paper. Allow the candy heart to fully cool and harden

before inserting in the frosting.

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Ideas for the eco-friendly shopper!!

Fishnet basket

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chevron cowhide rug

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Ernest pouf by donna Wilson

Seeking a fun response to the problem of occasional seating, she designed the low-lying Pouf from Design Within Reach to bring a little softness, intimacy and color into the home. To make each pouf, the cotton liner is hand-stuffed with an eco-friendly fiber made from recycled plastic bottles and then upholstered with knit panels.

Capiz eco tree plates

Each plate is crafted from Capiz, a semi-transparent shell with a pearlescent appearance, with its own intricate inlay tree design. A perfect blend of ele-gance and nature, this set of 4 plates from Bambeco can be purely decorative or function as dessert plates when hosting guests.

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Recycled glass night light

A brilliant approach to conservation, these beautifully handmade, secret garden night lights from Uncommon Goods are created from recycled glass bottles rescued before reaching the landfill.

Soji modern solar Lantern

Modern design meets sustainable solar for the ultimate in elegant outdoor lighting from Bambeco. Created in a lay-ered wave-like form Soji Modern lanterns are unique, port-able, efficient and will never require stringing of unsigtly electrical wires.

F ringe Studio: the

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laura u|mag jan-march issue

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