Friday Favorites 12/2/2011

Jared Ainscough, Assistant Art Director
A hidden treasure up in Hallowell, Maine is Brahms Mount textiles. This place, with its incredible history, continues to have artisans working on antique shuttle looms. I am in love with this cotton herringbone throw with the signature Brahms Mount rope trim. I would get one in every color if I could. But if I have to choose I would pick the Island Blue…or the Misty Blue. Don’t make me choose!

Island Blue Throw from Brahms Mount

Misty Blue Throw from Brahms Mount

Debbie Hagan, Managing Editor
I love visiting Savoir Faire Home, in Andover, Massachusetts. The store seems to glow in soft, worn yellow, reminding me of hand-rubbed surfaces and timeless craftsmanship. Owners Lisa Duffy and Sandra Shaheen really understand French style, choosing warm, earthy antiques picked from the countryside, accented with finely woven linens and beautiful handmade tableware.

I asked Lisa what’s new for this season, and she pointed out these quaint hand-stitched napkins from Belgium. They’re shown here with a three-piece cheese set from France, available in a variety of colors.

I’m thinking seriously about this French ice bucket with ice cube spoon for my holiday party.

Attending a party this season? Lisa suggests picking out your favorite champagne and wrapping it in one of these  beautiful French tea towels. Voilà, you have the perfect gift with a wrapper that your host will enjoy for ages.

Stacy Kunstel, Homes Editor
While the Ocean chest by the Keno Brothers reminds some of ripples in beach sand, I love it because it makes me see a modern take on the still-popular zebra print. A mix of sycamore, rosewood and maple, this chest would be perfect set in a library with the appropriate liquors and cocktail shakers giving just a bit of sparkle to its top. It can be seen in showrooms throughout New England that carry the  Theodore Alexander furniture collection.