August 2009

Lake Forest–based Brimar, a to-the-trade trimmings, hardware, and textiles company, has just come out with a slick line of drapery hardware inspired by modern architecture called Manhattan. Instead of a typical cylindrical rod, this one is flat and narrow and the finials that go with it have the same streamlined quality. Sold through Kenneth Ludwig Home (Merchandise Mart, 312-467-0530), and Chicago Design Team (Arlington Heights, 847-394-1800).

—Gina Bazer

Once an off-the-beaten-pather in Ravenswood, Patina, an urban cottage–style antique shop, has joined The Andersonville Strip (at 5137 N. Clark St..), jumping on the Clark Street bandwagon with other great shops of its kind like Scout, White Attic, Brimfield, The Cottage, Room Service, and Roost. For other great finds in Andersonville check out our guide.

—Gina Bazer

The dog days of summer are always a great time to stock up on furniture and accessories at reduced prices. One of our favorite shops, the charming Crosell & Co. is holding its annual floor sample sale, with furniture and lighting on sale from 25 to 75 percent off. Find upholstered furniture, tables, lamps, chandeliers, pillows, and more from  Cisco Brothers, Arteriors, Ankasa, Luna Bella, Kelly Rauch Designs, Soleil de Provence, and Arte Italica. In conjunction with the floor sample sale, accessories such as Lawrence Essentials hand-carved resin serving pieces, L’Object nickel and gold serving bowls and trays, Casafina Portuguese stoneware, Michael Aram, Riedel, Kim Seybert, and more are on sale. Shown here: A cast aluminum Louis 14th chair upholstered in black patent leather for $2,000 (down from $3,000) and  Preston Bailey for Egizia crystal from Italy, $20 each or four for $60 (originally $60 each). Save through the end of August.

—JAN PARR