Perfect with Daquiris and Coladas

What I saw
Brown Jordan – Harmony full-circle chaise

Why I like it
A party waiting to happen! This stunning focal piece reminds me of the aft deck on a SeaRay in Saugatuck. It can be configured as a modern-day tête-à-tête or family friendly snack stop. Accessorize with umbrella drinks.

How to sell it
You have the option of separating, uniting and propping the circle segments to suit your mood. The exposed support system has a modern edge. An optional woven skirt transforms this into a traditional piece. A one-piece answer to outside comfort.

Afternoon Delight

What I saw
David Francis Furniture – Sandpiper daybed

Why I like it
Let’s bring back the sleeping porch! Just add sheer curtains blowing in the breeze for the perfect afternoon getaway. Inviting and shapely, this multiple-personality piece can be used as a sofa, a window bench, or a bridge piece connecting two seating areas.

How to sell it
Made from lampacancy, a wildly abundant grasslike substance from Southeast Asia, is a socially concious choice as well as a versatile solution for space planning.

Catch Some Zs on Ergonomic Sculpture

What I saw
Janus et Cie – Dedon leaf chaise by Frank Ligthart

Why I like it
A sleek silhouette to use against plush greenery. Taking its inspiration from organic forms, this chaise acts as sculpture as well as a resting place. The gentle back swoop is ergonomically designed for ease in reading or taking in the view.

How to sell it
Hand-woven synthetic fiber is smooth to the touch and virtually maintenance free. Integrally colored, it is inherently resistant to environmental conditions such as ultraviolet light and the growth of microorganisms. Fibers cover a rust-proof, powder-coated aluminum frame for lasting durability.

Summertime: When the Living is Easy

What I saw
Beachfront Furniture – Cape Cod Adirondack chair

Why I like it
The rustic charm of an Adirondack resort has been updated with brilliant colors like Mango and Bahama Blue. Reminiscent of the fashionable Gatsby-era destination, these chairs embody summers leisurely pace and can be colorfully clustered across the lawn.

How to sell it
High-density plastic has fade-resistant color throughout each board. This sturdy classic can withstand chlorine, salt water and the harshest of winters. Stainless-steel hardware with Xylan coating eliminates maintenance, so there’s more time to mingle.

Monkeys and Toasted Eggshells for Functional Opulence

What I saw
Maitland-Smith – Eggshell inlaid lantern chandelier

Why I like it
The structure of this fixture is physically massive, yet translucent, providing ideal visual balance for a room with volume. The monkeys are just plain fun!

How to sell it
The story is amazing, so, retailers, make sure you tell it to your customers. The shades are made in Vietnam from eggshells buried in beach sand and toasted to the perfect color. This fixture captures a new trend that we call Functional Opulence. I'll talk more about this in future posts.

The Onyx Empire

What I saw
Maitland-Smith – Onyx table

Why I like it
Onyx can be the most dramatic of natural materials when paired with under-lighting. It was prominent this year at the International Marmomacc Stone Show in Verona, Italy, creating excitement in furniture and flooring uses.

How to sell it
Stone is the most sophisticated of natural materials, providing luxury and durability. The Empire style is fitting for the most classic rooms, and also can be the contrasting accent in a modern interior.

Modern, Versitile Comfort

What I saw
Laneventure – Celine sofa

Why I like it
Simplicity and the relaxing curvilinear lines make this the perfect solution for a room that wants to be comforting while modern.

How to sell it
The single seat cushion is low maintenance, especially in active households, since there are fewer crevices for crumbs. Worked up in a deep blue-violet fabric, this would be completely user friendly. The option of playing it in a cooltoned pewter or pale mint makes it suitable for the most sophisticated interior.

Designers Sleep to Dream

What I saw
Century – Grand Palai bed

Why I like it
European flair is now available in 67 finish options, a designer’s dream come true!

How to sell it
Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep dreaming of their escape to a grand chateau?