August 2009

The American Craft Expo has come and gone, but you can still check out the work of some of the local artisans who participated, including Andrew Stansell, who makes metal adaptations of traditional wooden furniture (such as this cabinet). Jordan Goodman’s X chair is a feat of engineering in ash with hand-tanned, cut, and stitched leather. 

—JAN PARR

The other day I blogged about the black sink and toilet in the bathroom at Nightwood. Shortly after, I got an email about the latest collection from Alessi: Il Bagno Dot in black (it came out in this color in May). This look is a bit more severe than that of Nightwood , but I gotta say, there’s something interesting about going noir in the loo. Il Bagno Alessi is available at Waterware.

—GINA BAZER 

Oak Park will soon have a new consignment shop for upscale home furnishings and accessories. Kellie Scott, the owner, is accepting consignments at 111 N. Oak Park Ave. She says she’s already got a ton of great finds, from a 1920s vintage art deco dining set to ultra modern tables and couches. Of particular interest: some 80 pieces from a modern furniture store that closed in Wisconsin recently. These brand-new pieces are at least 50 percent off their original price. She’s also got a $7,000 sectional that a North Shore interior designer is looking to unload because it’s the wrong color—it’s just $1,999. Divine Consign is open from noon–5 p.m. through the end of this week to accept consignments. It will be open to shoppers beginning Friday or Saturday, Scott says.

—JAN PARR

Photos courtesy Becca's Blog at livehereoakpark.com