CasaSugar -- Home sweet home.

Steal of the Day: Urban Outfitters Round Doilie Rug

casasugar — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:07 -0800

Stay on top of the modern doily trend by stepping onto this Urban Outfitters Round Doilie Rug ($30, marked down from $48). I've been loving circular rugs lately — they add such an unexpected silhouette — and this is a cheap and easy way to put one down.

Plus, the black-and-white color combo means it will fit into countless rooms, while its delicate features keep the rug from looking too severe. It's cotton and quite pliable, so be sure to pair it with a good nonslip rug pad.

Steal of the Day: Viva Terra Bark Candlesticks

casasugar — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:00:49 -0800

The tree-branch trend may be giving way to birch and other motifs, but I still appreciate a lovely tree-inspired accent. Especially one that's sleek and metallic rather than brown and burly; even better if it's on sale.

If you're knot ready to give up the tree trend just yet, snap up these Viva Terra Recycled Aluminum Bark Candlesticks ($89, marked down from $179). They're half price but fully fabulous.

Steal of the Day: West Elm Chunky Console Table

casasugar — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 08:30:20 -0800

After-Christmas deals don't last long, but a good piece of furniture will. The West Elm Chunky Console Table ($150) is a stylish modern console that's versatile enough to be used as a landing strip, a console, a buffet, or even a bar table with a set of stools, depending on your needs. Go basic brown with an acorn finish, or infuse a little rouge into your home with a cinnabar finish. I love the substantial scale of this piece; it's a bold focal point, but its clean lines keep it unfussy. This simple style won't go out of style anytime soon.

Steal of the Day: Jonathan Adler Greek Key Pillow

casasugar — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:00:34 -0800

Since you named Jonathan Adler your favorite product designer of 2008, and since Greek key patterns are perennially pleasant, I find it highly likely that Jonathan Adler's Greek Key Pillow ($82.50, marked down from $165), will meet your approval. The pattern is painstakingly embroidered in needlepoint, and its chic monochromatic colors will make it welcome in any home.

Steal of the Day: Flowers Cut Out Metal Frame

casasugar — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 05:30:15 -0800

Some might say you have an exaggerated sense of self-worth to frame a photo of yourself with an intricately cut flower pattern, but I'd just say you're fabulous. Perhaps the design of the Urban Outfitters Flowers Cut Out Metal Frame ($9.99) is a tad too feminine for most with its curvy cutouts and florals, but its sleek black enameled metal frame gives it rockstar edge. And there's nothing indulgent about its price. So if you're a hip chick with self portraits to frame, maybe this is for you.

Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Jayne Sofa

casasugar — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:30:08 -0800

It ain't easy being green with envy. I know this because I'm aching over the Anthropologie Jayne Sofa ($1,499, reduced from $2,998). I love its bold, large lotus stem print and its apple green and black color palette. And Jayne's wacky curves and cute turned wood legs play up the attention-grabbing pattern even more, making her a cheeky living room showstopper — definitely no plain Jayne here. Thankfully, she's on sale, reduced from one of Anthropologie's oft-absurd price points, making it a fair price for a sofa. I must test this one in person though; comfortable lounging is quite important in my book.

Steal of the Day: Garnet Hill Ribbon Shower Curtain

casasugar — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:00:48 -0800

Who says shower parties should be reserved for brides and mommies-to-be? You can have your own party in the shower with this festive Garnet Hill Ribbon Shower Curtain ($54, reduced from $78). Made from streamers of vibrant grosgrain ribbons, this shower curtain has all the celebratory style of a b-day fiesta, short of a piñata. Choose from a bright multistripe palette or cool blue sea glass stripes, or use both and throw a wild and crazy bash every time you lather up. Why not drink and rinse while you're at it? A glass of wine in the tub never hurt anyone.

Steal of the Day: Cool Blue Mercury Glass Votive Holders

casasugar — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:30:59 -0800

Red and green may evoke the holiday season for many of you, but nothing says Winter like some shiny, icy blue. Put a match to some tea lights in the Wisteria Cool Blue Mercury Glass Votive Holders ($18.20 for six, reduced from $28) and your home will be a Winter wonderland, sans the icicles and frigidity. Considering how trendy mercury glass is these days, I can't help but snatch them up. Set them around the room to create a flickering space, or arrange them on your tabletop for a magnificent, wintry tablescape.

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Velvet Linen Quilt and Sham

casasugar — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:00:27 -0800

I’m not even in the market for new bedding, but there’s something about an exceptional piece of velvet that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside (i.e. want to shop). Pottery Barn knows what I’m talking about: the retailer’s new Velvet Linen Quilts and Shams (originally $39-$299, on sale for $24-$179) have that soft, weighty, and wintry texture and elegant diamond hand-quilting that instantly win my attention. Throw in the wide range of colors available (choose from sherwood green, sapphire blue, chrome gray, green apple, glacier blue, deep wisteria purple, orange, espresso, or ivory) and the reduced price, and where do I sign? That was easy. Now, getting me out of bed is another story . . .

Steal of the Day: Gothic Dessert Plate

casasugar — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:00:28 -0800

If ever I come across a discounted Thomas Paul design, my ears perk up; I love his work. But, in this case, the Thomas Paul Gothic Dessert Plate Set ($23.10, reduced from $38.50) caught my eye because their creepy silhouettes look straight out of The Ring Two. We've got a young girl (Samara), a horse (from the old Morgan horse farm), a boy (Aiden Keller — Naomi Watt's son), and a black crow thrown in there for good measure. Hung on a wall of your kitchen or dining room, they create a dark contemporary motif. You like, or is it too dark for your home?

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Kids Thanksgiving Leaf Garland

casasugar — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:00:11 -0800

I think garlands are totally underrated. They only seem to make an appearance on Christmas fireplace mantels or at the birthday parties of five-year-old girls. It's totally discrimination. I think we should welcome cute garlands like the Pottery Barn Kids Thanksgiving Leaf Garland ($39.99, reduced from $59) into our homes whenever possible. The festive garland is made of felt leaves on a grosgrain ribbon. So much easier and safer than pricking your fingers sewing hundreds of pieces of stale popcorn together for hours on end, don't you think?

Steal of the Day: CB2 Burst Rug

casasugar — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:00:11 -0800

Perhaps it's just because I love chrysanthemums, but I simply adore the CB2 Burst Rug ($499, reduced from $599). Its design may be a bit pared down, but its cheerful and lively petals make up for it; they're nearly bursting off the rug itself. The brick orange color is also perfect for the Fall season. I'd love to mix it with some dark textured grays, and perhaps some warm greens. Of course, the color may not work in all homes, but I think we can all appreciate a great design — and a great price — when we see one.

Steal of the Day: Brocade Home Silhouette Coffee Table

casasugar — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:00:41 -0800

So, I told you recently that Brocade Home is back after a Summer respite, with sadly only one notable new item. But, did I mention that it's offering killer discounts? The Brocade Home Silhouette Coffee Table ($99, reduced from $399) is discounted a whopping 76 percent. The table is made of solid oak, and with a basic square shape updated with classic, feminine curves. It's not a piece that will be out of style in a few years, like mirrored furniture. So, for 100 bucks, it's really a steal. Let's just hope Brocade Home has gotten their act together and will ship it to you promptly with no problemos.

Steal of the Day: Stainless Steel Soap

casasugar — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 06:15:14 -0700

Stainless steel has magical deodorizing/odor neutralizing power that can wipe the pungent scents from things like garlic, onion, and fish away from your skin. There isn't a clear chemical explanation for this, but it's been hypothesized that sulfurous compounds are somehow catalyzed by the steel. So, some clever entrepreneur came up with a stainless steel "soap" product, essentially a block of metal in soap shape, to rid your skin of whatever stink ails you. But rubbing your hands across a stainless steel knife, spoon, or other utensil will have the same effect. Knowing that you can you use any old piece of stainless steel is certainly a deterrent from purchasing a bar of the soap, but I think it makes a good gag gift (or stocking stuffer!) for a fisherman or chef friend of yours. Luckily, the Uma Stainless Steel Soap ($8, reduced from $12.50) is on sale.

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Cameron Floral Rug

casasugar — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:00:52 -0700

I'm not a purple person. I think I overdosed on the color at a very young age because my mother lives and breathes purple . . . purple clothing, purple golf balls, purple dining room, purple, purple, purple. But, as much as I try to steer clear of it, that doesn't mean I can't make an exception for an exceptional design. Such is the case with the Pottery Barn Cameron Floral Rug ($159 and up), a lavish, romantic rug with more of a deep eggplant hue than a glaring Mardi Gras purple. The plush wool rug's vintage French lace pattern is hand-tufted with bold shapes, making it as modern as it is traditional. Perhaps if my mother had laid this down in our dining room to coordinate with its striéd purple walls, the color might have had a chance with me.

Steal of the Day: Sonata Queen Bed Frame

casasugar — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 04:30:00 -0700

Wow, talk about a steal. This Sonata Queen Bed Frame (originally $799, now $199.99) is definitely worth the extra delivery charges. The bed is made of rubberwood hardwoods and veneers, and has the type of traditional, understated style that could translate easily to a number of bedroom styles. I think it's classy and good looking, and since there isn't any MDF or engineered wood in this bed, you can expect it to stand the test of time as well. Hurry though — it's on closeout, so there might not be many left for long!

Steal of the Day: Williams-Sonoma Link Embroidery Sheet Set

casasugar — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:30:05 -0700

Sheets may not be the most exciting decorative home purchase, but you can't live without 'em, so I think a little ornamentation is due where they're concerned. That's why I'm loving the Williams-Sonoma Link Embroidery Sheet Set ($99.99-149.99). The chains of embroidered diamonds in orange, blue, or khaki give your basic white sheet a subtle hint of color and flavor, without looking overwhelming, tacky, or complicated. Like most, the set comes with one flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two standard cases, and you can also purchase extra cases if you're a pillow person.

Steal of the Day: PBteen Swoop Lamp

casasugar — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:30:32 -0700

If you're on the hunt for a classic, arched floor lamp, PBteen has you covered with its Swoop Lamp ($199, reduced from $269), a sweeping arc, height-adjustable floor lamp that'll bring overhead lighting to any space. This design is clearly inspired by the Arco Floor Lamp ($2,696), which is part of MoMA's permanent collection, but its linen/cotton shade and simple base makes it appropriate for more traditional homes. CB2 also sells an Arco-inspired floor lamp, but its glossy shade makes it more suited for a modernist.

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Kids Rattan Chandelier

casasugar — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 05:30:13 -0700

I can't help but see the similarities between the Pottery Barn Kids Rattan Chandelier ($69.99) and the Moooi Random Light ($610), and notably, the vast difference between their prices. The PB version looks a little less polished, but also has a more natural vibe, made of rattan twisted around an iron frame. I think it's a really versatile piece that needn't be reserved for kids, and could work in a variety of settings. I'd love to see a pair framing a bed, or even a single chandelier hanging above a reading nook. What do you think?

Steal of the Day: West Elm Faux Shagreen Side Table

casasugar — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 04:30:19 -0700

For some reason, I feel like there are so many side tables that I adore, but not nearly as much seating to put them beside. I'd easily snatch up the West Elm Faux Shagreen Side Table ($79.99) — what a great price! — if I had a need for it. I love how its angular gunmetal base mimics the shape of a Greek key pattern. And, I think its textured faux-sharkskin leather-wrapped top gives it a luxurious, but not over-the-top, appeal. At 22 inches high, it's a dainty little thing, but it can add style to even the smallest niche of your home. What do you think?

Steal of the Day: Turquoise Cleaning Bucket

casasugar — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:30:28 -0700

"Clean house" is always the last thing to be checked off my to-do list. But, that might not be the case if I were the proud owner of the Conran Shop Turquoise Cleaning Bucket ($29.50, reduced from $59). Made of iron coated in a vibrant shade of blue, the durable bucket will last until your cleaning days are over — which will be never. OK, maybe it won't make scrubbing my floors more pleasurable, but it'll lessen the blow a bit, reassuring me that I look good while I'm at it.

Steal of the Day: French Floral Placemats

casasugar — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:00:11 -0700

Much like shoes and handbags, you can never have too many placemats — or any table linens, for that matter. They're simply an effortless accessory that dresses your dining room up or down. Inviting the parents over? Go classic with simple white, perhaps a monogram. Having a casual brunch with friends? Try the Elsewares French Floral Placemats ($19.99, reduced from $26). Their bold poppy print will bring personal style to your table, while their dishwasher-safe polypropylene material makes them durable enough for everyday use. Available in burgundy, red, or black and white, you can buy all three and mix it up, depending on how rouge or noir you might be feeling each day.

Steal of the Day: Style & Co. Trees Bedding

casasugar — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:00:55 -0700

I don't know if you've seen Macy's Style & Co. bedding linens before, but they have a modern style with clean lines and an easy mix-and-match arrangement that I really adore. As its name suggests, the Trees Bedding Collection ($29.99-99.99) is inspired by nature, with a bold tree print, but its mix of pattern and texture — strands and waves of amethyst, an origami pillow sham, painterly speckles, and negative mirrored imagery — will give any bed a really unique look. It's not so modern, though, that it's only fit for a modern Los Angeles bachelor pad; its neutral hues
keep things reserved and its botanical patterns give it a feminine edge. Oh: and did I mention it's on sale?

Steal of the Day: PBteen Petite Lamp Base and Shade

casasugar — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:00:30 -0700

If only it were sensible to swap out lamps like throw pillows, I could rationalize buying myself the PBteen Petite Lamp Base and Shade ($49). Actually, I'd snatch up all three. I simply adore their bulbous little ceramic bases, and I love the mix of all three together even more. I might have to change the shades though; I'm not sure the PBteen palette is my style. Oh wait, I don't have one more inch of space (or need) for another lamp in my house. Perhaps I can upgrade to a bigger pad to make room?

Steal of the Day: Chilewich Woodgrain Floormat

casasugar — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:00:25 -0700

If you still haven't gotten your fill of the faux bois trend, thanks to the Chilewich Woodgrain Floormat ($69.95), you can do so without breaking the bank. The faux bois mat is made of vinyl-coated polyester, so it's durable, stain resistant, and easy to clean. And its rubber back will keep you from slipping around. The 2-x-3-foot size is the only one available, but I think it'd make a great little rug in front of your kitchen sink or stove. And while it's definitely not the most natural mat you could buy, you can sleep tight knowing that no trees were harmed in the making of this mat.

Steal of the Day: Linden Street Rustic Bird Table Lamp

casasugar — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:15:01 -0700

I've been impressed by the quality and style of the Linden Street line of home goods from JCPenney (as has green guru Danny Seo). Now, their entire line is on sale, and there are some great items I wouldn't mind adding to my casa. One piece that immediately caught my eye was the Linden Street Rustic Bird Table Lamp (originally $100, now $49.99). Made with a resin base in an antique white finish, it has a touch of shabby chic going on, especially with the mellow, beige shade. However, you could personalize it with a different lampshade (such as one from funky company Squint). It's a great price for a unique, well-crafted lamp.

Steal of the Day: MacMillan Side Table

casasugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:00:22 -0700

I've been looking for a hall table for a while, and I wish that the MacMillan Side Table (originally $299.99, on sale for $119.99) was the right size for my hall. Alas, it's not, which means I'm offering it up to you. I love its wishbone pedestal design and light finish color. It's made of solid pine, and requires some assembly, but with such a cheap price point for such a pretty design, I think this is a table worth getting your tools out for.

Steal of the Day: Iron Work Wall Mirror

casasugar — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 06:15:15 -0700

If you're over the starburst mirror trend, but are still digging its celebratory shape and retro vibe, don't go anywhere. There is hope for your home. The Urban Outfitters Iron Work Wall Mirror ($29.99, reduced from $48.00) has that same bursting shape, but is decorated with a filigree of white palm leaves in classic Hollywood Regency style. You might not be able to use it for more than applying a little lipstick, but it will certainly add a fabulous decorative element to your home. Doesn't it just scream Palm Springs? I'd love to hang it on some retro wallpaper near a mid-century credenza.

Steal of the Day: Invisible Bookshelf

casasugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 05:30:31 -0700

I've got to admit I think the Invisible Bookshelf ($10, reduced from $15) is one of the most clever inventions I've seen all year. But I'm really also digging its nearly invisible price tag! Although it looks like a magical illusion, there's actually nothing tricky to the bookshelf. You simply secure your largest book into the bracket, and then that bottom becomes the shelf itself. Bookcases are so last season, aren't they?

Steal of the Day: JCPenney Wide Leaning Bookshelf

casasugar — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:30:59 -0700

There are a variety of leaning bookcases out there in the home décor world, some of which would make a great desk for a small bedroom. But why shell out $399 for one when you can pay $99? The JCPenney 35" Wide Leaning Bookshelf ($99) is a pretty fab steal, made of engineered and solid wood with an outlet price. I like how it keeps things visually light (like the Invisible Bookshelf), a great alternative to heavy built-ins, but its tier of five shelves still offers ample storage. What do you think?

Steal of the Day: West Elm Octagonal Table Lamp

casasugar — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:00:43 -0700

I guess my thing for gray is still going strong, because I'm seriously jonesing for the West Elm Octagonal Table Lamp ($49.99). I adore its charcoal poly resin base, and subtle light gray shade. Color aside (it's available in white too, fyi), it has a killer shape that's almost like looking at turned wood through a kaleidoscope; quite seductive, I must say. I think it would look fab atop the CB2 Smart Marble Top Side Table ($179), with some chrome Dupioni Silk Pole Pocket Drapes ($69 and up). What do you think?

Steal of the Day: Mixko Delight Belle Light

casasugar — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:00:53 -0700

I don't know what it is about butterflies lately, but they've had my heart all aflutter. The cutout butterflies on the Mixko Delight Belle Light ($49, reduced from $83) are quite dainty and appeal to the side of me that secretly loves pink, unicorns, and party dresses. And I love how the light just seems to peek through its skirted edge. I also don't think I've ever seen a felt lamp shade before . . . people seem to use whatever they can get their hands on these days (kitchen canisters, Tupperware, vellum). No, I don't think my husband would be a fan of this Lepidopteran light, but it would be quite cute in a girl's bedroom or a feminine powder room.

Steal of the Day: Hable Sand-Dollar Quilt and Sham

casasugar — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:00:11 -0700

One surefire way to hold onto Summer, even after it's bid you adieu, is to introduce accents with a subtle, beachy motif into your home. Just because the leaves may be turning, and you're keeping an extra layer handy when you leave the house, doesn't mean you can't have a reminder of Summer close to home. The Hable Sand Dollar Quilt ($128 -$134) and Sham ($14) will prolong the season with their cheerful, but muted, turquoise and green tones and sand-dollar motif, whilst keeping you warm. And, on sale, they'll do so without breaking the bank. If you're the type who likes to inject warm tones into your home come Fall, consider snatching these up and saving them for the Spring. Better safe than sorry!

Steals of the Summer

casasugar — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:30:50 -0700

It's time to bid adieu to Summer. While that's a sad proposition, you can comfort yourself with some of the incredible end-of-season sales that I've rounded up for you. There's no reason to abandon the bright colors of Summer just because the season is changing, and a surprising number of Summer home items will transition nicely to year-round and inside use. Take a look at my slideshow for the lowdown (and some amazing sale prices!). Source

Steal of the Day: Crate & Barrel Dash Lamp

casasugar — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 05:30:00 -0700

I guess I must have monochrome living on my mind, but I'm really digging the Crate & Barrel Dash Lamp ($27.95). It's not shaped like a light bulb, covered in mirrors, or even ruby red. It's just simple, masculine, and understated. I love the way the ceramic base mimics the shape of the traditional shade, and it has a subtle embellishment almost like café barware. What do you think? For under $30, you've got to admit it's an unbelievable steal.

Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Spindle Wingback Chair

casasugar — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:30:02 -0700

I've had the Anthropologie Spindle Wingback Chair ($1,300, reduced from $2,500) burned into my mind ever since it first made its debut. Actually, I'd come across the spindle/turned wood print in Ilse Crawford's portfolio and emailed her personally to find out where I could get my hands on the fabric. In case you're not familiar, Ilse is the founding editor of Elle Decoration and also a very talented interior designer.

It turns out that she herself designed the print for Christopher Farr Cloth. Anthropologie snatched it up to upholster this classic Queen Anne Chair, which looks scrumptiously comfortable: the ultimate reading chair. The price of the chair has been reduced $1,200 since I
first fell for it. But, although it still makes my heart go pitter-patter, it's probably more economical to reupholster a thrifted wingback chair in the fabric myself. Sigh.

Steal of the Day: Gump's Iron Candle Chandelier

casasugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 14:00:37 -0700

I can't think of a more delightful way to spend my endless Summer evenings than under the warm glow of candlelight. There are plenty of trendy ornate chandeliers out there, but I love the sophisticated simplicity of Gump's Iron Candle Chandelier ($99, reduced from $250). Who needs crystals and birds birds birds when you've got timeless, hand-forged iron and classic tapers to light up the night? I certainly don't, and I wouldn't mind lightening my electricity bill, either . . .

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Overlapping Leaves Wallpaper

casasugar — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 13:00:12 -0700

I recently introduced you to Graham & Brown's Paste the Wall wallpaper, which applies easily by pasting the wall not the paper, and peels off in full sheets. I was certainly won over by the retailer's new wallpaper technology, not to mention their vast selection of beautiful patterns and didn't think it could get any better. But it turns out that the Overlapping Leaves Wallpaper ($59.99, reduced from $84) not only pulls out in full sheets, but also has a preapplied adhesive that affixes effortlessly . . . and it's on sale! Unfortunately, the selection is limited to just this one pattern. But, that's not to say I don't love its monochrome leaf pattern.

Steal of the Day: CB2's Buena Park Chair

casasugar — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 07:45:25 -0700

Major steal alert: The CB2 Buena Park Chair has been massively marked down. Originally $169, this adorably modern version of a Luxembourg gardens chair is now only $39.95. I don't know how it can be this cheap, but I'm not about to start arguing about it. Instead, I'm going to order a couple of these posthaste, before you Casa readers snap up the rest of the stock. The Buena Park Chair comes with a weather-resistant polyester cushion, and its powder-coated black metal frame is rustproof. Perfect for your endless Summer reading, or for watching the leaves turn on Fall days.

Steal of the Day: Morocco Throw Pillow

casasugar — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:00:00 -0700

In case you haven't noticed, I've had Morocco on my mind all year long. I've never met a Moroccan-style furnishing I didn't like, and the Wrapables Morocco Throw Pillow ($39, reduced from $52) is no exception. I love its vibrant medallion-patterned embroidery, and how the bright colors contrast boldly with the cream-colored background. $40 is also a pretty fab deal for a crewel embroidery. Although I'm not an orange person, I am digging how the three colors look together: would it be crazy to buy all three? Oh Casa, stop yourself. Put the credit card away . . . you can't buy everything you see.

Steal of the Day: Signals Three Rose Vases

casasugar — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:00:00 -0700

I would never call Signals a go-to retailer for home décor products, but every once in a while they sweep me off my feet with a great steal. This time, it's Signals Three Rose Vases ($32, reduced from $59), three vases adorned with rose blooms in cream, chartreuse, and mint. Not only is a set of three vases for 30 bucks an incredible deal, but the vases share a remarkable similarity with the Roost Porcelain Flower Vase ($68-$96), a design I've been fawning over for some time. Each leaf and petal on the vases is hand-shaped and applied, making them very delicate and feminine, but their fresh colors keep them contemporary. What do you think?

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Emerson Chair

casasugar — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:00:00 -0700

If you ever fell in lust with Hans Wegner's Wishbone Chair ($599) — a beloved design from 1949 that never ceases to be stylish — but couldn't afford its high price tag, your time is now. Pottery Barn has created a successful knock-off (sans a wishbone-shaped backrest) and lucky for you, it's on sale! The Pottery Barn Emerson Chair ($169-$199, reduced from $249-$289) claims to be inspired by "the look of classic Chippendale style," which is a big load of b.s. Even if Wegner's chair was "inspired by classical portraits of Danish merchants sitting in Ming chairs," I think Pottery Barn should own up and pay Wegner credit where credit is due — right? Still, this slight sequestering of information won't keep me from loving Pottery Barn's version; I'm a sucker for its slender, curved form, natural-fiber seat, and washed gray tone.

Steal of the Day: Normann Copenhagen Pots

casasugar — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:00:53 -0700

Sometimes I think the Danish are invincible — at least in terms of modern design. Design firm Normann Copenhagen's Storm Pot ($44-$63) is both a flower pot and a water reservoir. The simple and ingenious aluminum pots have a single drain hole and the whole bottom half of the pot is the reservoir, so your plants will never go thirsty. Oh . . . and did I mention they're stunning? They're available (and on sale) in glossy red and black, and medium and large, but sadly not white, from Sprout Home.

Steal of the Day: Champagne Wire Cage Stool

casasugar — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:00:29 -0700

I like bubbly. I like bubbly pear cupcakes. I like a lot of things that have to do with champagne . . . even the Napa Style Champagne Wire Cage Stool ($98, reduced from $288). A stool shaped like a champagne cap? Yes, it's a little kitschy, but it works. I wouldn't go so far as to pick up the coordinating bright orange faux cork stool (yuck!), but I think the wire cage stool is attractive on its own. The stool's design origins aren't completely obvious at first glance either, which is a plus. In other words, you needn't live in Napa Valley to own it. What do you think? Am I totally off-base?

Steal of the Day: Titanium Garden Seat

casasugar — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 13:00:38 -0700

Garden stools have been trendy for a couple years now, but I never understood why they were priced so high for what is basically a ceramic drum — see here and here. They're cute though, and versatile, as they can serve as seating or a small side table. If you feel the same, and haven't yet made the splurge, maybe the Ballard Designs Titanium Garden Seat ($89, reduced from $149) will appeal to you. I like its bead detailing
and Chinoiserie-style cutouts. Its price tag also won't break the bank, and its polished titanium finish doesn't have the tiresome cutesy kitsch of some of its brightly colored counterparts. Yay for sale items!

Steal of the Day: Pottery Barn Rhys Media Tower

casasugar — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:00:21 -0700

Unless you're a discriminating minimalist, you probably collect a lot of crap (or good things). Books, DVDs, bowls, frames, souvenirs, knickknacks — it all adds up. And then, we need a place to put our consumerism on display. To ease the buyer's remorse, it helps to have a storage unit that comes at a highly discounted price. That's where the Pottery Barn Rhys Media Tower ($199) comes in. At $500 off, it's a superb steal. It also doesn't hurt that it's classic, with clean lines in basic black. It's also sturdy, made of solid mahogany, and versatile with four shelves, three of which are adjustable.

Steal of the Day: French Country Bed

casasugar — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:00:48 -0700

If you want to add some old-fashioned romance to your boudoir, look no further than the French Country Bed (queen on sale for $539, regularly $899). While it may look a little bit like Brocade Home (though of course, Brocade claims that there's nothing country about their French furniture), the price is significantly cheaper. From the Chris Madden For JCPenney Home Collection, this whitewashed bed features woven cane and is constructed from solid wood and molded resin.
I think that the whitewashed, ornate frame would look great when paired with a more streamlined bedroom — maybe some steel gray painted walls and unfussy linens. How would you integrate this bed into your boudoir?

Steal of the Day: Casablanca Side Table

casasugar — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:15:37 -0700

You know I've had Morocco on my mind lately, and that I'm always on the lookout for a good bargain. So, it's no wonder that The Company Store Casablanca Side Table ($53) jumped off the page at me. I have a sneaking suspicion that the low price of this table could be explained by MDF material (that info is conveniently left out). But regardless, I love its Moroccan-inspired look and rivet trim; it reminded me instantly of the pricey Cottage and Bungalow Moroccan Side Table. There's also a matching mirror and console table for sale if you're not on the lookout for a side table.

Steal of the Day: Chiasso Glam Table Lamp

casasugar — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:00:35 -0700

My man wouldn't allow the Chiasso Glam Table Lamp ($88, reduced from $198) within 100 yards of our home, so I'm hoping one of you can take it home instead. Cohabitation sometimes requires sacrificing the super-femme furnishings that I love, but knowing that I can decorate vicariously through you makes it all OK. This sparkling, disco-chic mirror has a playful shine that makes me glad I wound up with a pair of X chromosomes. It's not understated in any way, shape, or form, but I think we all need a little extravagance in our lives. And it helps when we can get that extravagance on sale! I know this lamp is not everyone's style, but you know how I love anything covered in mirrors . . .

Steal of the Day: Mibo Homewares Selsey Pillow

casasugar — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:00:09 -0700

If you liked the Mibo flowered table lamps, you might be happy to hear that the textile company's Selsey Pillow ($55, reduced from $92) of the same print is on sale at 2Jane. Or maybe the bold floral print was too much for you on a lampshade, but you would consider using it in your favorite reading nook. I'd love to liven up my own interiors with its vibrant, graphic print, and I'm actually digging how the red, blue, and gray color choices all look together. If I had my druthers, I'd buy all three.