Whimsical, imaginative and a little bit cheeky are ways to describe the designs of the talented David Stark.  His latest project isn’t a corporate event or lavish wedding but a one-month “surprise ambush” of Nina Freudenberger’s Nolita store, Haus Interior.

Inspired by a wood worker’s atelier, Wood Shop is one part concept store and one part gallery.  It’s filled with David Stark designed goods including vases, pillows, place mats, vintage jewelry and art pieces.  Some of our favorites include two unique Valentine’s Day gifts – Wood You Be Mine, a box of inedible wooden chocolates and the Sweetheart Carving Kit with vintage knife.

One particular item, the Wood Shop Tool Belt, was designed by Stark for his female staff, who often lacked enough pockets to carry all of their necessary items – headset, iPhone, tape, tools – while setting up an event.

The idea for Wood Shop was born after Stark and Freudenberger met at a RISD alumni dinner and expressed their mutual appreciation for each other’s work.  The pop-up at Haus Interior (250 Elizabeth Street, New York) will be open from today until February 27th, 2012. The limited edition items, which range in price from $5 to $500, are also available for purchase online.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of David Stark and Haus Interior

Make dessert a little bit sweeter with these adorable hand painted wooden spoons by Shop Sweet Lulu.  The demitasse-sized spoons measure 4.5 inches long and come in three patterns – Bright Stripes, Bright Chevrons and Confetti Dot.  Each package retails for $8.00 and comes with 20 one-time-use spoons that would be perfect for a kids birthday, outdoor party or dessert table.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Shop Sweet Lulu

Always on the lookout for gorgeous and original china, we discovered the exquisite patterns of Melbourne based designer, Courtenay Graham of Frida Plumm.  There are two collections of fine bone china that include platters, bowls, cups, votives and coasters.

The Illuminator’s Garden Collection features a darkly romantic floral pattern inspired by the twisting tendrils of exotic blooms and accented with silver and gold.  The Troika Collection pays homage to the geometric relics of the Aztec Empire which Graham has reinterpreted in a combination of shades including turquoise and silver or pale pink, purple and grey.

With its elegant packaging, the sets of petite bowls and tea light vessels make great hostess or housewarming gifts.  Visit the brand’s web site to make a purchase.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Frida Plumm

This modern yet feminine tablescape was designed by Vogue editor Devon Radziwell for a friend’s birthday dinner that she hosted at her loft in downtown New York.

“I fell in love with these magnificent hand-painted glass plates from the Dior boutique in Paris, and I built the rest of my table around them,” Radziwill explains in a feature for Vogue.com.

We love how the delicate and whimsical aspects of her table setting design are offset by sleek metal and glass.  There is a mix of smooth and textured surfaces which play well together.  Radziwell’s table includes champagne flutes from Pampaloni, silver swan centerpieces and turquoise candlesticks from Buccellati and silverware from the Conran Shop.

The silver accent pieces and translucent colored glasses are echoed in the table itself, which features a smoky glass top on metal legs made by Minotti, and paired with Lucite chairs from the MOMA Design Shop.

PHOTO CREDIT;  Claiborne Swanson Frank for Vogue.com

]]> http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/10/04/tablescape-sleek-silver-and-patterned-glass/feed/ 0 http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/08/29/first-look-missoni-for-target/ http://www.notesonaparty.com/index.php/2011/08/29/first-look-missoni-for-target/#comments Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:55:15 +0000 Celia Chen http://www.notesonaparty.com/?p=2381 read more]]>

If the sight of Missoni’s signature zigs and zags makes you weak in the knees then welcome to the club.  Over the past few weeks, the anticipation for Missoni’s upcoming collaboration with megastore Target has reached an all time high.  We wonder just how many fashionistas are going to camp out for the brand’s nationwide debut on September 13th, 2011.

New Yorkers get first dibs on the new collection with an early shopping party on September 8th during Fashion’s Night Out at the Target pop-up shop at 1095 6th Avenue.  We hear that the first 20 guests that purchase over $100 get to pose for family portraits with Angela and Margherita Missoni.

The collection for Target features over 400 pieces including clothing for women, men, girls and babies.  But, we fell in love with the home accessories such as the tableware, stationery and candles.  Prices range from $2.99 to $599.99 but most items are less than $40.

Here’s your first look at Missoni for Target….available until October 22nd, if it lasts that long!

 PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Target

Think of them as couture tailors for your tabletop.  Made on special order by a team of artisans, Leontine Linens creates tableclothes, runners, placemats, guest towels, dinner and cocktail napkins from the finest quality linens.

Nothing is kept in stock because everything is custom made to a client’s specifications from the color of the linen to the finishing trim to the style of the monogram. Linens can be hemmed or hemstiched while various styles of monograms with one, two and three letters are either embroidered or appliqued in a wide range of colors.

Some of our favorites color and monogram combinations (from top image to bottom) include the Kinsey orange applique monogram on brown linen; the Rollins green embroidered monogram on white linen; the Dorea red applique monogram on sandlewood linen; the Ruthie two-toned embroidered monogram on white linen; the Etienne espresso embroidered monogram on antique gold linen; and, the Forrester shaded embroidered monogram in oriental poppies and bisque on white linen.

Visit the web site to place an order or to set up an appointment.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Leontine Linens

Votive candles are to event planners what throw pillows are to interior designers – accent pieces that can complete a look and create some ambiance.

These glass votives are brightly hued with bold patterns inspired by Asian and European motifs.  Each set of six candles features a variety of prints that are unified through one color such as green, yellow or red which ties together the mix-and-match aesthetic.

Available for $54 per set on Terrain, an online mecca for home, kitchen and garden accessories.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Terrain

Acrylic furniture may have had its big moment in the 70′s but with the launch of Alexandra von Furstenberg’s new collection of modern acrylic designs, the once futuristic material is making a grand comeback.

Inspired by the faceted cuts of diamonds and clean architectural lines, the multi-talented designer, who was previously the Creative Director at Diane von Furstenberg, set out to create an elegant and chic home collection that would suit any type of aesthetic.

Von Furstenberg launched with, “Fearless” a collection of 8 pieces of furniture including desks, coffee tables and consoles.  Accessories were just introduced under the “Accent” Collection and include bud vases, coasters, trays and candy bowls – many of which are illuminated by a pop of neon color.

Prices for accessories range from $79 for a set of 4 coasters to $978 for a set of 3 candy bowls.  Available for sale on www.alexandravonfurstenberg.com and at specialty retailers across the country.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Alexandra von Furstenberg

Colorful, contemporary and filled with Eastern promise, British designer Jasper Conran has created a new collection of tea cups, coffee cups, serving bowls and dessert plates for Wedgewood called Kilim.  The designer was inspired by the intricate geometric symbols, vibrant hues and tribal motifs found in prized kilim carpets.

The platinum-banded fine bone china features colors and patterns that can be mixed and matched for a luxe gypset look.  Ranging in price from $40 for a mini mug to $125 for a cup and saucer set, the collection can be purchased via the Waterford Wedgewood web site and at fine retailers.

We envision using the china for a bohemian tea party hosted in an English garden or a forest…the Mad Hatter would definitely approve.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Marko McPherson (thumbnail) and courtesy of Wedgewood

The style icon who made the wrap dress an enduring fashion staple is now looking to wardrobe your dinner table.  Launched earlier this year, Diane von Furstenberg has created a collection of home accessories and tabletop, including glassware, dinnerware, serving pieces and entertaining items, that reflect her modern bohemian aesthetic.

The collection features her signature bold prints tempered with a selection of vintage and natural pieces that can be mixed and matched to create many original tablescapes.  Sold exclusively at Bloomingdales, the DVF Home Collection is filled with chic statement pieces and everyday wares that are well priced.

Some of the items that made our wishlist include: a set of “High Rise” Glasses in Erawan Blue ($60); “Powerstone” handstamped brass tray ($70); a set of 4 “Gold Leaf Wood” coasters ($40); “Floral Batik” salad plate ($20); “Night,” five piece gold place setting ($105); “Horn” bowl ($55); and, a set of “Opening Night,” high ball glasses in Avocado Green ($85).

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Bloomingdales

One look at the curated web site of Design House Stockholm is all you need to fall in love with the simplicity, minimalism and functional beauty of Scandinavian Design.

A publishing house for contemporary furniture, tabletop, lighting and accessories, their site features both internationally recognized designers including A&E Design, Nina Jobs and Form Us with Love as well as other emerging talent.

We are already imaging a Scandinavian themed tablescape filled with some of their gorgeous and affordable wares.  Some of our favorites include the Pipette Oil and Vinegar Set ($59), Bono Mug Set ($60 for set of 4), Barbara Carafe with Crystal Ball ($79), Whale Tongs ($50) and the Trinity White ($59), a set of 3 bowls that stack together to hold snacks, candies or even candles.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Design House Stockholm

Made of stainless steel and covered with colored enamel in a rainbow of colors including lime, lemon, pink, red, orange, white and turquoise, the strainers are more than just an accessory for draining pasta or washing vegetables.

The small 3-quart size comes with a clear plastic liner transforming the colander into a vessel.  For a casual weekend brunch, we think these colanders filled with flowers would give your table an industrial-chic look.  To dress up the top of any bar or buffet, fill the colanders with cocktail garnishes such as sliced fruit and vegetables or bunches of fresh, fragrant herbs.

The colanders are available in two sizes, 5 quart ($23.99) and 3-quart ($21.99).

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Target

We love the whimsical elegance of all of the tabletop, lighting and decorative items on Gretel Home.  Our latest obsession is the Candlestick Maker which cleverly turns any simple vessel into an original candlestick.  The porcelain is delicate yet striking when placed into a champagne or wine glass.

A collection of vintage colored bottles of varying heights could become a glowing centerpiece while an old vase could be illuminated on your mantle.

The Candlestick Maker ($32) is available in white and only in limited edition quantities on Gretel Home’s web site.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Gretel Home

Your culinary creations deserve better than the stack of shiny, plastic, straight-to-the-landfill disposables next to them.  And, come to think of it, so do your guests.  Developed by a Japanese company, Wasara has elevated your disposable dinnerware to a whole new level by designing plates, bowls, trays, tumblers and wine glasses that “accentuate food and drink.”

Made from tree free renewable resources, Wasara uses a unique combination of bagasse (sugar cane fiber), bamboo and reed pulp to create oil and water resistant dinnerware that features an elegant paper texture and a comfortable fit in your hand.

The single-use dinnerware is both biodegradable and compostable, even in home composters.  Available on Branch Home, the collection is available in a variety of quantities based on your needs.  For small events, there are retail packs of 6-12 pieces ($9-$12 per pack) and, for larger events, bulk sleeves of 50-200 pieces ($40-$100).  Caterers and event planners can purchase bulk cartons which come with 400-1800 pieces, depending on the item chosen.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Wasara

The picnic kit,  which measures 10 x 6 x 3, is (amazingly) packed with all of the essentials including knives, forks, spoons, wine glasses, 6″ plates, napkins,  salt & pepper shakers, a cork screw, a cheese knife, a cutting board and tablecloth.

Small enough to keep in the trunk of your car or to bring on a weekend trip, you’ll be ready for any impromptu outdoor meal on grass or sand.

We’ll be stashing one under our desks at work to bring to Bryant Park for movie night under the stars at the HBO Summer Film Festival, which starts on Monday, June 21st, 2010. All we need now is a chilled bottle of rose and some savory treats from ‘wichcraft, which is open for picnic pick-ups all summer long.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Rei

Imagine the dreamy glow of these candles illuminating your al fresco dinner table this summer. Created by Parisian design company Tse & Tse, The Night Igloo is made of delicate porcelain that is crafted into a thin shell to cover your tea light candles.   Not only do they protect the flame from any outdoor breezes, the igloos make a whimsical centerpiece or a beautiful decoration for a window sill or mantle.

Sold at the online retailer Horne, the white igloos ($59 each), which have an organic feel to them, come either riddled or striped in a glazed or matte finish.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Horne

Whether you are an event planning novice or a seasoned entertainer, The Caterer’s Box Collection by Pottery Barn is literally a party in a box.  Designed to let you entertain up to 12 guests, each box is filled with the kind of dinner essentials that the professionals use.  Choose from classic white porcelain plates, glass stemware, stainless steel flatware, a 3-piece set of serving ware, silver napkin rings or a candle set that includes a variety of tapers, pillars, tealights and votives.

Affordable and conveniently packaged, each Caterer’s Box ($49 to $119) comes in a durable, custom storage box that can be easily put away until the next family gathering or holiday celebration.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Eating, drinking and mingling simultaneously at a cocktail party can become quite the balancing act.  Leave it to mastermind, French designer Philippe Starck to come up with an elegant and highly functional solution for party hostesses and social butterflies.  The Lux Collection, made of reusable plastic, features plates, glasses, cups, saucers and cutlery in a variety of colors that can be used both on and off the table.

The round or square plates ($12 for 6 plates) have a cone-like spike attached to secure glasses, cups or bowls so that party guests can free the use of one hand to eat or greet.  Glasses are sold in sets of 10 for $6 while champagne flutes are 10 for $12.  Available in silver and gold, knives, forks and spoons come in sets of 10 for $8.  A large portion of the collection is sold online at Unica Home.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Lux by Philippe Starck

Design obsessed fans of Heath Ceramics can rejoice that the brand has found a new home for their beloved ceramic dinnerware and tabletop accessories at the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero in San Francisco. Designed by Los Angeles based interior design firm, Commune, the 500 square foot store is nestled among the finest organic and artisanal products including the rarified desserts at Miette, local brewed coffee at Blue Bottle and Vietnamese dishes at the Slanted Door.

“The Ferry Building’s unique mix of artisanal local retailers and restaurants, represents the best of northern California, and is a natural fit for Heath Ceramics. We are a design-driven, small scale, family-owned, Bay Area manufacturing company and our primary goal is to be a local company,” explains Creative Director and Co-Owner Catherine Bailey. “We’ve always wanted to be more accessible to our San Francisco customer, and this is the perfect match.”

The store will carry a curated collection of classic and new design pieces as well as a selection of like-minded, complimentary brands including David Mellor Flatware and Libeco Linens.  A live feed of the well known Sausalito factory floor may be watched by visitors for a behind-the-scenes look into the making of the coveted product which is found at some of the country’s top restaurants including Chez Panisse and Brasserie 44 at the Royalton.

Heath Ceramics | One Ferry Building, Suite 12, San Francisco 415 399 9284

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Heath Ceramics

From the Seattle design studios of Jamie Iacoli and Brian McAllister comes an industrial inspired collection of furniture, lighting and design objects. We especially love their mini pedestals which are made from vintage brass candlesticks found in thrift stores.  The unique candlesticks are sand blasted and powder coated (given an industrial paint finish) in bright shiny colors.  Once a hand finished white Corian top is added, the item becomes a whimsical cake stand that can be used for desserts, sandwiches, floral arrangements, potted plants or as decor.

The one-of-a-kind pedestals come in a range of colors including Magenta, Turquoise, Yellow, Red and Black.  Each item is typically priced from $85 to $120 and available for sale on the gorgeous home accessories site, Gretel.

From April 5th to 15th, 2010, the pedestals on 30% off on Iacoli & McAllister’s web shop.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Iacoli & McAllister

Happy, cheerful, cheeky and fun – words to describe Jonathan Adler’s collection of home accessories and playful pots that have made him a household name.  Now the designer has expanded his offerings to include festive partyware in the form of tumblers, napkins, plates, paper gift enclosures and gift wrap.

Boldly printed tumbler sets ($12.95 for 6), that are reusable and dishwasher safe, come in four patterns including Multi-Chevron, Clover Cup, Greek Key and Zig Zag. Pairs of conversation starting words are featured on each side of the tumbler such as Spiked/Virgin or Sweet/Sour.

Sets of paper dessert plates ($4.95 for 8 plates) and napkins ($4.95 for 20) come in a variety of eye-popping colors and prints to brighten any table setting.  Hang Adler’s oversize paper lanterns ($7.95) either indoors or outdoors for an instant dose of fiesta!

Housed in a chic reusable box, a set of gift enclosures ($14.95) for your hostess will go a long way in saying thank you!  Along with the matching gift wrap, ($6.95) the set of 24 assorted gift cards and envelopes is the perfect stash to have for last minute events!

We think Adler should add to his manifesto, “We believe everyone has the right to party like a Palm Beach princess!”

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Jonathan Adler

Summer has arrived at Heath Ceramics.  The beloved Sausalito company, one of the last remaining mid-century American potteries, introduces four limited edition, hand-dipped pieces to their Plaza line.  Inspired by nature, the seasonal collection offers three new colors “Aqua,” “Zest,” and “Ocean Pacific,” the combination and overlapping of both colors, which resembles the horizon line of a summer meadow.

Expect to find a selection of tabletop items including: a pitcher (Zest/Aqua); 12×12 platter (Ocean Pacific); large modern cup (Aqua); tumbler (Aqua); bud vases (Zest Yellow, Opaque White; Aqua); 6×12 platter (Aqua); deep serving bowl (Ocean Pacific); vegetable bowl (Ocean Pacific) and a vase collection.

Available starting April 1st, 2010, each item may be purchased individually or mixed together in a set.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Heath Ceramics

The embodiment of Hollywood glamour, interior designer Kelly Wearstler has created exquisite interiors for clients including BG at Bergdorf Goodman, The Tides in Miami Beach and the Viceroy hotels in Palm Springs, Santa Monica, Miami and Anguilla.

Now the talented entrepreneur has extended her signature style – of bold colors, textures and patterns – to rugs, wall coverings, home accessories and tabletop.  In partnership with Pickard, the oldest American fine china company, Wearstler has created four original china patterns that range from organic to graphic and from traditional to modern.

All in shades of soft gold and ivory, the different patterns including Pickfair (chevron pattern in soft gray), Tousdale (metallic dots); Mulholland (platinum and gold strips), and Hillcrest (sea anemones and stylized florals) look wonderful when mixed together.

The tablescape shown here pairs the mismatched china with gold rimmed crystal goblets, bright orange linens and, an unexpected element, a white, stone sculpture of a bust.

The Kelly Wearstler Collection for Pickard is available at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Kelly Wearstler

Make happy hour a stylish and simple affair by filling a Michael Aram nut bowl or olive dish with a selection of savories to accompany your favorite cocktails. We like this little hand hammered olive bowl from the Bronzed Botanical Collection.

“I love the idea of an object’s function being reflected in its form,” explains Aram. “The Olive Branch Dish holds olives … it’s a perfect reflection of this poetic symmetry.”  And, it’s pretty gorgeous as well!

The Olive Branch Dish ($75) is made of stainless steel and oxidized bronze.  For more condiment and snack bowls by Michael Aram, visit their website.

PHOTO CREDIT:  Courtesy of Michael Aram