The new issue of Rue Magazine hit the digital shelves this week, and my browser is already bursting with bookmarked design inspiration. In one feature, Rue introduces us to Bay Area designer Kriste Michelini — whose home CasaSugar toured in October — with a visit to her studio (I'm guessing). As usual, the styling is perfection. The vignette I can't take my eyes off is this floral Read more

It's been a while since I've written one of these Crave Worthy posts. I've been waiting for a truly statement-making piece to come along . . . and this Dandelion Bench ($2,750) definitely fits the bill. From the playful, '50s-style metal backrest to the round, neon green cushions, this sophisticated seat stopped me dead in my tracks. You'd make a fabulous first impression by placing this bench Read more

Earlier today, I espoused my belief that benches are a smart addition to any living room. So to help you on your search, I've rounded up several benches to choose from. I'm in love with this Tarp Bench ($1,900), which is made from South American hardwoods with gray canvas cushions (though I'm tempted to reupholster them in something a little zingier). Not your fave? Maybe you'll find Read more

Benches are an unsung hero in room design. During a party, they can accommodate several guests in a small space. At a dinner, you can move it over to an extended dining table if you don't have enough chairs. In between gatherings, this work-horse piece of furniture can be staged next to a sofa or chair to add structure to a room. I use a long oak bench as a low console table equivalent behind my Read more

I'm swooning over this Hollywood Regency Gilt Tassel Bench upholstered in blue and white ikat from Madeline Weinrib. With the gilding, the curves, the luxe fabric, and of course, the tassels, it's totally ostentatious. But sometimes a girl is entitled to flaunt it! Unless you're using them as curtain tiebacks, tassels in general are merely a decorative feature — a finishing touch. This one's an Read more

Here's a post from CasaSugar Community member ABurlock from the Su Casa group: I bought this bench/stool at my local Salvation Army over the weekend with the intentions of redoing it, possibly trying out some tufting and nailhead trim as practice for a headboard I plan to make. The bench was marked $7.99, but all furniture was 33% off on Saturday if you took it home that day. I took advantage of Read more

I get all giddy when I stumble upon a piece of furniture that screams for an easy makeover, which is why I fell in love with this tired little bench. The small seat was attractive enough, but I mulled over what I wanted to do with it until the right fabric struck me. And eventually, it did. After a fresh coat of paint and a cheery cover, this little bench found a new life in a little girl's room Read more

The living room is one room that always seems to accumulate random items, from library books and DVDs to stacks of magazines and kids' toys. Instead of immediately purging excess from the room, which can get tedious, you can cleverly conceal it within furniture items that have storage built in. Ottomans and benches are a wonderful way to both rest your weary bones as well as hide messy items Read more