Casa Shops: EQ3

CasaSugar — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 06:00:44 -0700

I've always thought of Canadian furniture store EQ3 as a sort of Ikea for grown-ups. So I started doing some research on the company after seeing a post on Decor8 the other day, and wouldn't you know, that's pretty much what the founders had in mind.

EQ3 was founded by Peter Tielmann, who moved from Europe to North America in 1999 and was shocked by the lack of cool furniture options for young consumers. You can definitely see the European design influence in EQ3's delightfully affordable furniture, rugs, and other home wares. For more on EQ3 and my product picks, read more

The furniture and other products are un-boring but basic enough to fit into all types of decor; there's a great selection of lovely modern couches that won't break the bank, despite very hip silhouettes and customizable fabric options. The goods are available at EQ3 showrooms in Canada and the U.S. (check out the store locator to find one near you) and also online. To see some of my favorite pieces, click on the photos below.

Get the Look: Oscar Party Lounge

CasaSugar — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 09:00:09 -0800

Considering that the Oscars are less than a week away, it's about time to start prepping your house for your own Sunday night Oscar party. Since YumSugar shared images with me of her preview tour of the Governors Ball, I figured I'd put 'em to use and show you how to get the look of an Oscar party lounge, making your digs worthy of an award — or at the very least, a nomination.

While I'll never endorse this color scheme, I do appreciate its inspiration. Special events producer Cheryl Cecchetto spoke to the influences saying, "The inspiration this year was really drawn from the gold of the Oscar and the red of the red carpet." To learn how to get this inspired look for your Oscar party, or any other, read more

The Palette: As I said, the palette for this party is simply red and gold. But, you can bring in some other tones by using reflective materials like mirror, glass, and pailettes. If red and gold isn't your thing, I don't blame you. Use a similar arrangement in the colors that suit your home best.

The Furniture: The first item on the furniture list is the center piece of a modular seating set or sectional, or an armless loveseat. If you're using the color scheme, you can still get the look with the sofa you already own, but the armless seating is really what gives it that clubby/lounge feel. Try the Brocade Home Horizontal Tufted Loveseat ($1199), the West Elm Tillary Modular Seating ($799), or the EQ3 SALEMA Armless Loveseat ($549). You'll also need a pair of West Elm Mirror Side Tables ($249) for that reflective ritzy glow, and of course, as a place to stash your cocktails.

The Accents: The accents are pretty minimal - just a pair of vases and accent pillows — but they pack a Hollywood glam punch. You'll want to save room for your warm-bodied guests and libations. The accent pillows will be glitzy, with paillettes or sequins of some sort. Try the Nate Berkus Gold Sequin Toss Pillow ($34.99), the West Elm Peacock Pillow Covers ($39), or these Fun and Funky Sequined Pillows ($29.99). Pick up a duo of slim crystal or glass vases, like the Plum Party Honiton Glass Vases ($42 for five) or the CB2 Lisbon Vases ($9.95). Then, fill the vase with a single, top-heavy flower, like a red rose or a fiery-red begonia.

The Lighting: Go with dimmed overhead lighting, or pick up a pale luster from a nearby table lamp.