By Steven Yaccino
Before we get hit by the next wave of books about Obama’s first year in office—Bob Woodward, for example, has got one in the works—here’s a recap of some of the top election reads of 2009. Read more
January 2010
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I admit that I don’t think of Pier 1 first when I think of great design, but a couple of items recently made my head turn. Everyone on staff wants the 8 Ovals Mirror ($129), which is 35” wide by 3” deep and 21” high. And this Hayworth console ($350) is a glam piece that would sex-up any living room or entryway (buffet available for $800). Yes, Pier 1!
—JAN PARR
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If you are looking for pieces that are significantly rough around the edges, check out Urban Remains. This messy but charming hole-in-the-wall salvage shop in West Town has a great selection of any—and everything you can imagine ever coming out of a factory circa 1940. Stools, tables, lamps—all with great patina. Come on, grunge things up a little. The mixing of clean and contemporary (or even polished and more traditional), with anything old, rusty, and metal is a trend that’s not going away soon.
—GINA BAZER
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There’s something classy about putting your stamp on your stuff. And if you can work with a designer to create a seal all your own, that’s even better. Sarah Drake, one of our favorite local designers of paper products, has expanded her collection to include monogramming services for custom bedding, ceramics, and table linens. A set of six machine-embroidered heavyweight Belgian linen napkins (22 by 22 inches), such as the ones shown above, is $195. Drake offers a pleasing choice of neutral colors and provides detailed proofs showing you how the final product will look before she sends it off to be embroidered. How chic.
—GINA BAZER
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