To market we go!

This weekend kicked off the start to an inspiring time at High Point Market. It's incredible to see the endless possibilities of what is now available and what is coming available with all of the upcoming trends for spring. The first stop this weekend was at one of our favorite showrooms - Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. Everything we see there is top secret until it is released for the spring collection. Our rep, handsome Rob, always shows us a great time and helps us select the best fabrics.

This chair is the most comfortable chair in the world. It was a hit! And what about this beauty by Mariette Himes Gomez! One of our favorite pieces.

We've been lucky enough to run into some of our favorite designers. We can't help but get a little starstruck at market. Suzanne Kasler, Thom Filicia? Who wouldn't be starstruck?

So far we have been seeing a lot of brass (which, as you must know by now, we love!) A lot of vintage modern and traveled pieces seem to be favorites from each line we visit.

Follow us on instagram at @alicelanehome to follow our market adventures as we visit our favorite vendors and discover amazing new furniture and accessories!

How-to: Fall-ize your kitchen

There are so many ways to spruce up your kitchen for the summer, potted herbs, fresh flowers, a sunny bowlful of lemons. When fall rolls around, you might think, "How do I set the tone in the kitchen for fall?" Here's a few of our favorite suggestions: Replace those lemons or limes with apples or something else that is in season. This still adds a pop of color but will be more natural for fall.

White pumpkins for the month of October are a fun addition to add a little Halloween spirit while staying true to your style.

Use a lamp on a buffet or if you have extra space on your counter. It will create a cozier mood for those cooler fall nights.

If you don't have the space for a lamp, lighting candles in the evening is another great way to create that warm and cozy light.

We love this kitchen with the pizza is wood fired oven. Just imagine sitting in the kitchen on a crisp fall night with good food and friends.

[photo 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

How-to: Finding complimentary furniture silhouettes

When it comes to selecting furniture, one concern that we hear repeatedly from our clients is “How do I know which pieces go together?!”  If you have ever felt this way, you are not alone.  Why do you think so many people get stuck in the “sofa set” rut? – Because it feels safe! Say no to sofa sets! We completely understand that selecting and pairing furniture can often seem daunting, but with these simple tips and tricks you can successfully pair pieces that will wow your guests and reflect your own personal style. SCALE - Choose pieces that are similar in relative size, with approximately the same seat height and depth. Follow this rule for your main upholstery pieces.  It is more interesting to add some variety when it comes to arm height/thickness and back height. However, stay away from extreme opposites or your room could start feeling like a Dr. Seuss illustration.

LINES/SILHOUETTE - The lines of a furniture piece can range from very straight and boxy to quite curvy and ornate.  If a grouping has exclusively one line type without the other it often feels either too stiff or too crazy.  If you have clean lines, add some soft curves, and vice-versa.  It's ok to mix styles and period pieces for that eclectic look, but make sure they relate or else something may feel out of place.  When in doubt look at the pieces and think, “Could they be friends?”

LEGS - Vary the length a bit.  If all of the legs are long, the grouping can feel very “leggy,” like it is floating.  On the other hand, if every piece is low to the ground, the grouping tends to feel quite heavy.  The leg styles/shapes and finishes can also differ slightly, but keep them in the same family so the pieces correlate.

DETAILS - Limit tufting, nailheads, or another unique feature to one or two pieces.  This will prevent the room from feeling too busy and allow that detail to be more noticeable and special.

Here are a few pairings from our store:

Take advantage of The Very Best Sale EXTENDED. All Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams pieces are 20% off - in-store and special order items!

Pairing furniture with varied lines, fabrics, finishes, and colors adds interest to a room and displays your unique personality.  It can be nerve-wracking to create your own furniture groupings, but with these simple tips you can select furniture like a pro.  Remember though, there are always exceptions to the rules so don’t be afraid to break them!  When in doubt, go with your gut.  You can do this! If you still have trouble completing your space, contact our design team and they would be more than happy to help steer you in the right direction.

[photos 1, 2, 3, 4]

Our 5th Birthday!

Thanks to everyone who stopped by to celebrate our 5th birthday. We loved spending this day with all of you who have made our dreams at Alice Lane a reality!

These lovely, elegant flowers were done by the talented Tasha Gines of Bloom Floral Studio.

We had our favorite local food trucks stop by for the event - had to have a little bit of the sweet and the savory!

It takes an army to create the Alice Lane experience. We are so thrilled to have celebrated five years and can't wait to discover what the next five will hold for Alice Lane Home!

[photos by Meikel Reece]

The Very Best Sale Extended!

The Very Best Sale has extended. All in-store and special order items from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams are still on sale! A few of our favorite Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams pieces are still on the floor! Come see how comfortable these chairs and sofas are and take advantage of the extended 20% off sale period!

The Odette Sofette

The Dean II Chair and the Dana Chair

The London Sofa

Hurry In!!!

If you've been thinking about that new sofa or reading chair to cozy up in for the winter months, now is the perfect time to buy! These are the last few days of The Very Best Sale.

We have a few pieces from these lovely room shots in-store now waiting to go home with you. If you are looking for something in particular, special order items are also 20% off!

This grey linen chair and sofa are a couple favorites that are on the showroom floor now. Stop by and discover just how perfect they are!

The Major Chairs are a great statement. The clean lines and metals frames are downright sexy. We have two in store in a charcoal leather.

And of course, this beauty - the Vega Cocktail table. Brass is back and we couldn't be happier. If you have any questions or would like fabric samples to be sent to your home, don't hesitate to call the store for more information.

[photos from here]

Mid-Century Modern

A question I get all the time is “What is your favorite style?”  That’s a tough question for this indecisive designer with few absolute favorites.  Do I love this or that?  Modern or traditional?  What would I put in my own house?  To be honest I’d be my own worst client!  It is a blessing and a curse to have access to so many lovely things because there are loads of styles I’d love to live in day to day.  But if I were to pick anything, no holds bar, no one to compromise with or answer to I would live in a mid-century modern home.  I’d build it with a butterfly roof and fill it with natural woods, bright colors, teak furniture with low clean lines and built ins everywhere.  Thinking back to my Grandma Wanda’s home I can see it was her furniture that was my first exposure to the mid-century style and so I associate it with family and love and comfort.  It is what makes me feel at home.

We’ve all seen some of the classic mid-century furniture pieces, you might even have some in your home now.  Below are some of my favorite chairs that speak to this classic style and are still current today.  If you feel the need for a little mid-century face lift a chair is a great place to start and these classic look alikes are at your fingertips through Alice Lane Home Collection.

From left to right: 1. Amish Chair - $247.50 // 2. Pyramid Chair - $125 // 3. Noland Chair - Regular Price - $1,187.50 (Part of The Very Best Sale) Sale Price - $950 // 4. Marshall Chair - Starts at $1,675 // 5. Casper Chair - $175 // 6. Metal Mesh Chair - $175 // 7. Hugo Chair - Starts at $1,675

So my question for you is: “What is YOUR favorite style?”  Really think about it.  What do you love?  Make a list of furniture, art, accessories, memories, clothes and architecture you love - it doesn’t matter if they “match.”   Stand back and take a look.  These things are what you should start living with regardless of a current trend or what a friend has.  This is you!  Go for it and love it every day.

Happy mid-century designing!

[photo 1 and 2]

Last Chance!!!

This is the last week of The Very Best Sale so make sure to get your orders in!

The Keaton Two Ways

It's no secret that the Keaton is a favorite around here. We love this beauty because it's available in just about any configuration you may want--loveseat, chair, chair and a half, sleeper sofa, sectional, or several sofa lengths! We have done the Keaton as a sectional--down-filled, upholstered in a velvety fabric--and it's incredible.

We currently have the Keaton in store in the same fabric. The Very Best Sale goes until October 7, so come on in and try out the Keaton. Discover which way you like it best!

Alice Lane turns 5! Come celebrate!

They say time flies when you're having fun. This statement could not be more true when thinking about the past 5 years at Alice Lane. To celebrate we are throwing a party tomorrow at the store with great food and a few of our favorite things.

We also thought we would share a birthday present with you! We will be giving away 5 of Jessica's favorite things! Stop by the store to enter. The winners will be chosen at the end of day -- we will be calling to notify the winners in case you are not present when the winners are chosen.

Everything in the store will be 20% off, and as an extra birthday treat there will be a gift with purchase (while supplies last.)

Can't wait to see you there!

What's in Store - Brass Cocktail Table

Over the past few years we've seen gold and brass increase in popularity and become part of many spaces in fresh new ways. We're not complaining one bit! These warm metal tones add a rich gleam and an almost old-world feel to any space. We can't get enough. I mean, we are still drooling over Jackie Astier's apartment featured in Elle Decor.

This past market, Jessica snatched up some amazing brass beauties. This piece, similar to the one seen in Jackie Astier's apartment, is in-store now! And guess what? She's part of The Very Best Sale. Take 20% off now through October 7th.

48"Dia. x 17"H Regular price: $2,175 Sale price: $1,740

[photo 1]

Setting the Mood in the Bedroom

The master bedroom is by far my favorite room to design in the home.  This is a space where you can create a scene filled with luxury, comfort and a little bit of romance.  For me, the master bedroom becomes a space solely to provide comfort. It should be a haven from the bustle of the busy day.  An easy and simple way to create this luxurious retreat is through the use of textures, layers, patterns and color.

Begin with the headboard.  I prefer an upholstered headboard. Not only does it look stylish and luxe, but it has the added bonus of being comfortable!  Next you can begin to layer in beautiful linens, soft pillows, and inviting textures to the top of your bed.  Choose soft, tactile fabrics that will become softer with wear – there’s no point in selecting something you wouldn’t live comfortably with.

From top to bottom, right to left: Mady Platform Bed -  Queen - Starting at $2,220  King - Starting at $2,347.50 || Chamber Bed - Queen - Starting at $5,090  King - Starting at $5,475 || Cleo Bed - Queen - Starting at $3,022.50  King - Starting at $3,287.50. Take advantage of The Very Best Sale going on now and save 20% off on these beds.

Nothing defines atmosphere more than lighting – and since atmosphere is key in a master bedroom – so is lighting!  Thoughtfully place lighting throughout the room – on top the bedside tables, next to a chaise or a lounge chair. This will create a soothing and peaceful place to relax.  When you can turn off your bright overhead lighting and turn on soft lamp light – it gives any room a calm and intimate setting.

Lastly, style should get personal in the master bedroom.  Layer in family photos, display treasures from your most recent travels, set aside your favorite books, light candles and place fresh flowers on the bedside table - enjoy your master retreat!

[photo 1, 2, 3, 4]

Let's Party!

What's in Store - Brass Cocktail Tables

We love our brass cocktail tables! In this month's issue of Lonny, they featured one the newest to our collection, the Vega. With its brass plated base and smoked glass top, it's sure to glam up any room.

This showstopper is in store now and part of The Very Best Sale! Hurry in to receive 20% off until October 7, 2013. Take this girl home with you today! (For those of you who are not local, we can always place orders over the phone!)

42"Dia. x 15"H Regular Price: $1,674 Sale Price: $1,339.20

[photo 1, 2]

Places For Chatting

“A comfortable chair is the most hospitable piece of furniture one can own” – Charlotte Moss Whether creating a relaxing seating area in a master bedroom, a lively keeping room off the kitchen, or an office setting, a comfortable place to sit is so important! When arranging a furniture grouping, the way you place your sofas, chairs, and tables has a direct effect on the way the room is used and enjoyed.

When choosing a layout for a bedroom, keep it inviting and comfortable. You want a space that you can relax in and cozy up with your favorite people. In the above bedroom floor plan there is a settee, which is the perfect place to sit with a laptop, have morning tea, or even a landing spot for your duvet to rest when it’s too warm at night. Flanking this with a cozy chair and reading lamp creates a perfect end to the day.

When putting together a keeping room or sun room, it’s always great to introduce several different chairs with a main sofa. This eclectic mix allows guests to feel welcome and comfortable; able to pull up a chair and chat without the formality of perfectly matched pieces.

Whichever grouping you choose to incorporate into your space, always pick something comfortable that you love!

This is one of my favorite chairs. I love the details of the tufting, and once paired with the ottoman it's a chair you will never want to leave. We have it in store now, and it's part of our sale!

Regular Price: Chair - $2,127.50 | Ottoman - $840 Sale Price: Chair - $1,702 | Ottoman - $672

[Room shot found here]

How-to: Accessorize your sofa and chairs

When it comes to adding personality to your sofa, we find it's best to start with a simple and neutral fabric or leather for the base. This allows your pillows do the talking. Mix up the textures and sizes - The length and depth of your sofa will determine the number of pillows. With a long and deep sofa, 3 pillows is prime. You don't want to overcrowd the sofa. If the sofa is smaller, stick with 2. Use different textures. Here, we've used a velvet, a linen, and a sequined pillow to add a little pizzaz. We started with the largest pillow and worked from there. We recommend using down fillers rather than polyester inserts. They stay looking great for a long time and even more importantly, they are are more comfortable!

Use a lumbar pillow in lounge chairs - Doing so will add a bit of back support and fit just right in the chair. If the chair has a taller back and is deeper, go ahead and use a 20" square.

A chair doesn't always need a pillow - Some chairs, like this beauty, doesn't need any accessorizing. That tufting goes all the way down the seat of the chair and is interesting enough to stand on it's own. There's no need to cover up all of that beautiful detail. 

Add a throw to the back of a chair or sofa - With the transition into fall, adding a throw will make a setting feel cozier and is also very functional. Fold it up neatly and drape it over the back or throw it over the arm of the sofa for a more casual, laid back approach.

What's in Store - The London

Though the English rolled arm sofa has been a classic since the 1820's, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams created the perfect blend of classic style and comfort when they designed "The London." The lines are elegant and timeless and the 26'' seat depth invites you to pull your legs up and stay a while.  Who wouldn't love to curl up on this sofa, perfectly nestled in towering bookshelves, and read for hours? The amazing thing about this sofa is that it can take on so many different personalities as it is mixed with different styles of furniture. You can see it here in the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams showroom. Their take on the classic piece is a little more modern with some clean lines and metallic in the mix. And yet, the London looks perfectly placed.

In the Alice Lane showroom, it is paired with the Dana chairs (also by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams) and a punchy ottoman. We love the versatility of this sofa. The London comes in 3 lengths - 77", 87", and 97". Lucky for you, the London is part of The Very Best Sale and we have three in stock, waiting to go home with you. Hurry in to receive 20% off until October 7, 2013. For all of you locals, stop in and see her for yourself, and for those of you out of town, don't hesitate to call in and place your order.

Regular price: $2,777.50 Sale price: $2,222.00

[photo 1]

It's on! The Very Best Sale!

These are a few of our favorite vendors offering the most comfortable and beautiful pieces - sofas, chairs, beds, cocktail tables, dining tables, etc. Stop in and have one of our design experts help you find your perfect piece.

And the countdown begins...

Labor Day Weekend

 

Hope you all have a lovely Labor Day weekend. Our store will be closed on Monday but will reopen on Tuesday, September 3rd.

[photo by Nicole Hill Gerulat]