Urban Source, which sells modern wallcoverings, window treatments, and upholstery fabrics usually available only to the trade, has expanded and moved across the street to 1429 W. Chicago Ave., 312-455-0505, urbansourcechicago.com. Read more
We love the idea of a lamp that looks like a wispy dandelion-gone-to-seed hovering overhead. Even more, we love that it will keep its pretty shape, whatever the weather. Read more
While living in Italy as a budding architect about eight years ago, Chicagoan Felicia Ferrone created a design that’s brilliant in its simplicity: a two-in-one glass that can be used for water or flipped over and used for wine. Her prototype, immediately picked up by a manufacturer, is on display in the new Modern Wing at the Art Institute of Chicago. Read more
Whether you’re in the mood to relax, snooze, or just look cool, the latest trend in sofa design has you covered. It’s all about proportion. These low-to-the-ground loungers generally measure at least 40 inches deep, ideal for sprawling and cuddling. Read more
French country style is not just for the North Shore anymore. Until recently, Pierre Deux, which offers everything from cozily curvy upholstered sofas to colorful table linens and pewter tabletop items, had its only local outpost in Winnetka; now it’s opening in River North in late November. Read more
DesignRed, an upscale faux-finishing studio that consistently elevates this craft to high art, has fittingly opened a “fine art gallery of decorating finishes,” says Bill Borman, the firm’s creative director (and co-owner, with Richard Thomas). Read more
The German company Vitra is best known for outfitting workplaces, but the furniture and accessories it manufactures—designed by some of the biggest names in the industry, from Charles and Ray Eames to Arik Levy—are too good to leave at the office. That’s why Manifesto (755 N. Wells St., 312-664-0733) has decided to pick up Vitra’s newest offerings and give the brand the biggest retail visibility it has ever had in Chicago. Read more
