Friday Favorites 5/2/2014

Stacy Kunstel, Homes Editor
Known for his beautiful jewelry designs and luxe handbags made of exotic skins, Phil LuanGrath is also a talented furniture designer. Based in New York, where he also has a store, Phil used green alligator skin atop this bronze bench. Like his accessories, it’s the ultimate statement piece.

Maria LaPiana, Contributing Writer
If you love design, art, beautiful furnishings, antiques, jewelry, and home accessories plus heavenly teas and sweet treats (and who doesn’t?) then get thee to The Drawing Room. We’ve raved about the Cos Cob, Conn. design showroom and boutique before, but it merits mention again because its Art Gallery (opened in 2012) continues to delight. Last night I had the pleasure of attending the opening for its latest exhibit, “Ebb & Flow,” and all told, it just may be its best yet. Featuring the works of five artists, the dynamic exhibit studies the many ways in which water can be represented—through paintings, photographs and paper. Of special note: The pinhole photographs of Jeremy Saladyga and diminutive paper-cuts by Adrienne Ginter. Every piece is thought-provoking in its own way, however, and all contribute to the well-curated show.  “Ebb & Flow” runs through July 28; it coincides with an Artist Talk with David Dunlop at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 8. Dunlop will also be the honored guest at an Artist’s Table dinner on June 22. The Drawing Room Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, visit The Drawing Room or call 203-661-3737. Take a peek at the show here, and plan your visit soon.

Lynda Simonton, Online and Market Editor
We featured this wonderful AnTeak tile from Walker Zanger in today’s edition of the New England Home newsletter. I am crazy about this tile since both the use of teak and the shapes of the tile evoke Mid-Century modern furniture. The possibilities of combining AnTeak with other materials (think ceramic and stone) are endless! The tile is made from recycled wood and is the first-ever FSC certified teak wood tile, so you can feel good about using this “green” material.

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