italian design + more

Italian modernism is becoming mainstream, swapping MCM for something bolder and more elegant. From Murano pendants to striped sofas, it’s everywhere—and I love it. Here’s that, plus fresh finds like Huey Lighting, wall vases, and an Arrington Woods update. Let’s dive in.

Leading the charge, brands like CB2 and Rove Concepts are embracing Italian flair with pieces like the Curva Lounge Chair and sleek outdoor collections.

CB2 Outdoor

Curva Lounge Chair - Rove Concepts

I've pointed these out before, but clear glass Art Deco Murano pendants are the rage right now. Seeing these in kitchens and dining rooms everywhere, and for good reason. Tamsin Johnson, one of my favorite designers who champions vintage light fixtures, was on this years ago.

via Double Bratus on Etsy

A detailed shape paired with clear glass is the perfect balance. These feel very elegant. That is part of the appeal of Italian design and something people want right now in their homes - elegance. I'm here for it.

In a part of the same broad trend, we've got stripes going front and center in the living room. Anthropologie & Schoolhouse below are both stylish but very much brands of the people.

Anthropologie - Hull Sofa

Schoolhouse & Clare V - Marc Striped Sofa

huey lighting

Just discovered this boutique Canadian brand and really like what they are doing. Beautiful colorways and an interesting use of shape make them feel simultaneously cozy and fresh, which is the juxtaposition I'm after these days.

It's a great way of leaning into the delft tile wave in their own vertical.

I love this lamp and it's iron feet.

wall vases

I don't have one, but I think it's a great opportunity for the green-thumbed creative at home or in hospitality. Seems like a growing product category.

The things you could do with two of these and a couple of branches or vines... it's low-hanging fruit for very high impact.

Sheild Flower Sconce - Artful Home

Wall Vase in Foreest - UPSTATE

personal updates

Our Arrington Woods project continues to move forward. If you are unfamiliar with it, it's 11 home sites nestled across 90 acres of rolling wooded hills with ridgeline views and cedar groves. Transitional architecture program with lots of natural materials.

We just got our roads in for phase 1. Every time I head out there, I am blown away and so grateful that I get to be part of a project on this scale. Such a spectacular piece of property, even in the leafless, overcast early March.

In digging roads, we've found many boulders and are excited to incorporate these into the natural retaining walls.

When we set out on this 3 years ago, we agreed we only wanted to do this if we could build one of the most uniquely beautiful neighborhoods in the Greater Nashville area. No promises, but it's looking good.

I'll spend significant time this summer in Southern California. I'm going to do a meetup or event; stay tuned. If you are in the design/hospitality/real estate world and are based in SoCal, I'd love to hear from you and learn about your business.

We've been building an internal furniture catalog; I am interested in creating the functionality to algorithmically pair things together to suggest different furniture setups. It could be a really useful tool. If you are technically inclined and interested in this, please email me.

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a design war

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