In these trying economic times…. (no this isn’t a George W. speech) maybe a full redo isn’t financially responsible, but sometimes a little sprucing can have far reaching effects. Property Furniture in New York’s Soho has some very cool rugs and accessories that could enliven the dullest of rooms.

BDDW, boutique Brooklyn design company, is regarded for their streamlined, hand-crafted solid wood furniture. Their cool collection of modern timepieces reflect the company’s design dedication to producing innovative classics.

One of the greatest design guises of all time used to masculinize any home furnishings piece is the “studded accent”. Long used on weathered leather club chairs and storage chests, nailheads are now used to decorate everything from shiny patent leather mirrors to rafia upholstered “softer” silhouettes. Ahh, chic compromises…

‘blankblank is a design company that is based on relationships… a small company with a huge vision of touching people, one person at a time.” We are fans.

www.blankblank.net

Though one doesn’t need any excuse to visit the Santa Barbara area, in the beautiful coastal town of Montecito, is a charming home furnishings and accessories shop called Maison K. Most of the cultural finds from owner Kimberly Philip’s travels include pieces made of horn, mother of pearl, glass, silver and other refined materials. Blink favorites from the collection include: Syrian Mother of Pearl Occassional tables from $2,600, Murano Glass Chandelier, $5,400, Tibetan Poof, $2,400, and Horn Mirror, $2,100.

Eric Cohler-his design speaks for itself… but might I add elegant, sensual, and casually chic. Visit his site for more inspiration for you “Antique Glam” or “Traditional with a Twist” style followers.

One could argue that the BLOND Silk Curtains showcased at Lekkerhome.com, pushes the boundaries of discriminating modern design, but we think it’s rather bold of this Bostonian shop to present the works of edgy, international designers. Lekker’s website is a comprehensive collection of contemporary objects/furniture for the home, striving to deliver unique pieces at affordable prices. The best feature of the site is the eclectic “What’s HOT” guide. Here are blinkdecor’s “hot shots”…

BLOND Silk Curtains by Dutch designer Nicolette Brunklaus

Oromono Sea Bloom Pillows by British designer Kirsty Anne Powell

Bamboo Knife Blocks by French Design House Ekobo

Chair 303 by Palau, fabrics by Tord Boontje

You have to love a contest called No More Ugly Furniture…
Bo Concept offers contemporary furnishings and accessories at reasonable prices and would like to help you rid your environment of ugly, outdated furnishings. Send an image of your most horrendous piece and enter a chance to win $7000 in new furniture as well as many more runners up. Win by public vote, so ultra-sensitive types need not apply.

Based in the UK, Le Tramac, brings mod style to time-honored classics with their visionary furniture design. The remodeled vintage pieces are colorful and cocky, “for people that have a tasteful, playful, and daring eye…”

It is not often one stumbles upon good quality, hip design at a large furniture store. High Fashion Home delivers some great pieces for a modern, design conscious consumer without a big box store feeling. As they say in their blog, “We have a passion for our products, we have a passion for our store, and we have a passion for decorating.” As a famous philosopher said, “If you can’t be passionate about something you should take your heart out of it.” Luckily HF Home is willing to share their design inspiration through their product line and their blog.