Debi's Pick - Large Art

I like big art and I cannot lie! OK...enough of the Sir Mix A Lot parodies, but really...there's nothing that transforms a room more than an over sized piece of art.

The size makes every subject more graphic, and it both elevates and grounds the room at the same time.

Whether colorful or neutral, photographic or just graphic, hung or propped, a large piece of art makes a statement that is both confident and fresh! So, when you're looking for that special something to take your room to the next level...Go big! We always have a variety of large art pieces throughout the store, so come stop by and get some inspiration or find that perfect piece that will give your room some back!

Kiana's Pick - Temple Jars

Temple Jars are a staple accessory at Alice Lane! We love using them in so many different settings. I especially love them for the spring and summer months to display live blooms or branches.

Use multiple sizes and styles to make it even more interesting. They look great in a grouping as a centerpiece on your dining table. Or, style a collection of a few jars together on a mantle, console table, or dresser.

A single large jar with full branches looks great on an entry table. You can’t go wrong with these bad boys! It's not wonder they're a favorite!

We just got a large shipment of temple jars in, so come stop by and pick out your very own temple jar to style in your home.

Side Table Stardom

And the Best Supporting Side Table Goes To….! When we begin designing a room, we typically start by casting major pieces first, or what we like to call the star of the space. In a living room, this is likely to be an amazing rug, the main statement-making sofa, a super stylish cocktail table, or a unique chair. Then we fill in the space with supporting actors, like side tables, lamps, decorative pillows and accents. Just as in the big blockbuster movies we love to rush out and see opening weekend, the best spaces employ a mix of shining stars and strong supporting pieces.

When selecting your Best Supporting Side Table – here are some directors’ cues:

1. Make sure the scale of the table is appropriate to the room and to the adjoining upholstery pieces. Larger spaces can handle tables that are both wide and deep, but a smaller room might need something that feels more open – try a leggy table with a low shelf or a Lucite side table to take up minimal visual weight.

2. Try using side tables that will provide juxtaposition to your cocktail table – for example, if your cocktail table is leggy and glass, use a wood side table with some closed storage. If your space is small and you want both pieces to feel light, try mixing up the shape with a round side table or one with angular legs.

3. A pair of side tables flanking a sofa creates a great formal look, but if your space calls for a second style of table, make sure your choices complement one another without matching exactly. A mix of styles creates depth and will elevate your design performance to Oscar worthy, while a matching set tends to look like student work.

So when you’re looking for your Mammy to go with your Scarlett O’Hara (link: Movies Where Both Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress Won Oscars) don’t just throw any old side table into the mix. Make sure you get that Best Supporting Side Table trophy! Plus it's always nice when you can achieve stardom at a discount. Through the rest this week get 20% off any side table during The Very Best Sale. All upholstery and casegoods included. Now go break a leg!

(images via Elle Décor, Veranda)

Our Secret Revealed...Wonderland by Alice Lane!

 

Andrea's Pick - Jet Set Curio

From the first time I laid eyes on the Jet Set Curio, I knew I’d never be the same. This piece strikes the perfect balance of modern and glamour. I can definitely see myself in it...literally!

Between the clean lines of the silhouette and paneled doors, combined with the mirrors and hammered gold hardware, I say this cabinet can do no wrong. The Jet Set Curio Cabinet is sophisticated, yet versatile enough to work in many spaces.

Whether you find it a home in your dining room or bedroom, it will make a striking statement! She's 20% off right now during The Very Best Sale, which has been extended through May 16. Come in today and see for yourself just how good you'll look in it!

Book Shelf Styling

Styling a bookcase can be a tricky thing if you don’t have enough books to fill all of the spaces on the shelf. They can easily become very busy and cluttered if they’re not well planned out. I’d love to share a few of my favorite tips and tricks to help you find success when styling your shelves.

I love neutrals, so naturally my heart loves a white clean book shelf to start with. Using multiple pieces and books that are white, gray, or black are a sure fire way to keep your shelves looking clean, and not overly cluttered (even if you do have a lot on them). I always like to layer in some warmer pieces as well with either wood sculptures, woven baskets, or greenery to make sure it doesn't pull on the side of too cold or stark. Using lighter looking pieces like glass bottles on the top shelves helps you steer clear from making the shelf appear top heavy.

Layering art inside your book shelf is an excellent trick that I feel is sometimes over looked. It’s an opportunity to be reminded of some of your favorite memories with family or friends and can serve as conversation starters when entertaining. Art gives your shelving a custom look that is specific to only you. So even if your neighbor has the same bookcase, layering in your own art can make it look like a completely different piece.

Art is not only good on the inside of your shelving, but if you have built-ins, take the opportunity to layer art over your shelf too. It will make the space feel more collected and also cover up some space that you may have trouble filling otherwise. My biggest tip that I feel is most important when styling your shelves (especially if they’re large) is to use the largest pieces that you can.  They can stand on their own, acting as beautiful sculptures, and will keep you from over styling your shelves.

Keep it clean, keep it collected, and use art and sculptural pieces to make your shelving your very own. Our Very Best Sale has been extended (20% off!) so come to one of our two locations in Orem or Salt lake to find a shelf that will be the perfect fit for your home!

Rachel's Pick - Gifts For Mom

Everyone has a woman in their life that deserves a big thank you. With Mother’s Day almost here, I've chosen a few of my favorite gifts from Alice Lane that will show the women in your lives just how much you appreciate all they do for you. You really can't go wrong with any of these beautiful accessories!

Jewelry is always a great option, for both mothers living close to home or far away. Who doesn't love a gorgeous and stylish piece of jewelry – especially one that will keep her thinking of you every time she wears it? Give the mother in your life something as beautiful as she is!

Maybe you have one of those moms who's cooking you just couldn't go without! Show her how much you appreciate all those home cooked meals by giving her a new cookbook to add to her collection. Of course, she'll need a new cake platter to put all those delicious new treats she bakes on too! Maybe you can even convince her to share.

Some moms just need a way to help them relax. A new scent for her home is exactly the thing that when she kicks up her heels at the end of a long day and takes a deep breath will make her say "Awwwhhh."

Of course, we have a gift for you too! For the entire week you'll get 20% off all accessories from Alice Lane during our Gift Sale. Don't forget that treating yourself to a little Mother's Day love is also allowed!

Mother's Day Gift Sale

 

Creating Outdoor Living Spaces

It is almost that time… time to begin spending every extra moment outdoors! This also means that it’s time to start thinking about that outdoor furniture you’ve always wanted. Transform your outdoor living space into something both beautiful and functional with just a few pieces. No idea where to start? Here are a few tips to get you started!

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE ZONES Designing outdoor areas revolve around how you are going to use the space. First decide what functions are most important to you, then zone your space into smaller areas for each. These spaces could include lounge areas, dining areas, open space for playing catch, or raised garden beds - just to name a few. Selecting some simple pieces on an empty balcony, or locating a dining area in an unexpected place, are easy ways to make the those warm summer nights more enjoyable.

GO BIG After all, you have the space, so why not use it? Open spaces outside usually create a unique opportunity to bring larger than life moments to your home. Fill your empty areas with large pieces of greenery, deep and comfortable lounge furniture, and open architectural moments. Don’t forget to include lighting for a completed look.

ADD SOME PERSONALITY As always, adding your personality is the best final touch. Outdoor furniture is anything but boring these days. There are endless shapes, textures and fabrics that also happen to be durable and resistant to harsh outdoor elements. Find the perfect pieces for you – pieces that extend your beautiful home into the great outdoors.

[picture source: architectural digest]

Top 5 Design Trends of Spring 2015

We recently returned from an amazing week in High Point, North Carolina attending the infamous High Point Market. For those unfamiliar with market, it's essentially Fashion Week for the interior design world. Everybody who is anybody in this industry is there, either showcasing their latest collection or shopping current styles and trends. Every year, we're inspired by the beautiful creations we see at market and then bring those ideas and products home with us to share with you! Here are the top 5 trends we noticed from this year's market:

1. Blush Pink - Shelby from Steel Magnolias would be so proud to see her signature color making our top 5 trend list of 2015. This delicate shade of pink is feminine, elegant, and incredibly eye-catching. Yes...you're seeing it all over the runways right now in too. Turns out that dusty pink shawl you bought will double as the perfect throw for your couch!

[Tobi Fairly collection for CR Laine]

[Tobi Fairly collection for CR Laine]

2. Jewel Tones - You don't have to be a billionaire to deck your halls in sapphire, emerald, pink, ruby, or canary. These rich and bold colors are being applied in upholstery, drapery, on the walls...you name it. The trick here is to pick one color vein and use it at different strengths throughout your room. Too many colors and it starts to feel really dated.

[Lillian August collection for Hickory White]

[Tobi Fairly collection for CR Laine]

3. Modern Art – If your home is full of traditional pieces, adding some modern art is an easy way to stay on trend. Take down your landscapes and oil paintings in favor of abstract or minimalist pieces to give your home an updated and clean look.

[Modern Baroque collection by Bernhardt Furniture]

4. Sculptural Furniture - Let your furniture be a piece of art! When your chair can double as both a place to park your tushy and be the topic of conversation with your guests, you know you're on trend.

[Thomas O'Brian collection for Century Furniture]

5. Vintage Modern – You know what they say, if you wait long enough it’s bound to come back in style! Trends are pulling inspiration from vintage design for a stylish mix of old and new. We've see this a lot already with mid-century inspired pieces, but it’s expounding into more decades and eras of design than ever before.

[Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams]

[Kelly Wearstler Collection]

The Very Best Sale - EXTENDED!

Good news folks! We're extending The Very Best Sale through May 16th! Thanks to our amazing merchandisers and dedicated staff, our fabulous customers (that's you!) will continue to receive 20% off all upholstery and casegood purchases. It's like finding that secret stash of chocolate you forgot all about! Or waking up early and realizing you still get two more hours of shut-eye! Only you don't want to sleep through this - you would not be a happy camper. And we want you to be happy! So stop by Alice Lane today, or tomorrow, or anytime before May 16th and all these savings are yours for the taking!

Cambri's Pick - The Franco Chair

Pipe-ing dreams really do come true with this stunning Franco chair by Thom Filicia for Vanguard. I can't decide what my favorite feature is - the beautiful piping, the distinctive low arms, the sophisticated fabric, or how downright comfortable it is!

The pattern is a distant relative to the check/plaid family. It's unique, yet slightly familiar at the same time. The great part is, this piece can be an accent in any room without taking too much attention. I dream about snuggling up in this spot with a good book on a daily basis (and I would if I wasn't so busy working). Come test it out for yourself. I promise I won't judge you when you fall asleep in it right here on the showroom floor!

Today's the very last day of The Very Best Sale!!! So come in and I'll show you all of my favorites, like my dear friend Franco here. It's not everyday you can save 20% on all of our upholstery and casegoods, you don't want to miss this.

French Moderne Manor - Marble

If you ever go to France and take a stroll down the Champs Elysees visiting the little shops, patisseries, and cafes, you'll notice one common thread between them all...marble! While France doesn't always get the credit for harvesting marble, the French sure know how to use it. Whether it's applied on the floors, on the walls, or even used as counter tops, marble is a staple in French design. So, it should come as no surprise to see that our French Moderne Manor parade home is full of it! For starters, we're using marble in the fire surrounds for several of the fireplaces in the home. While this is a very traditional use of marble, the crisp straight lines give it a fresh and modern look that is also timeless. That second surround (hard to see here) has the most dramatic black veins running through it. Gorgeous!

This shower wall has to be one of the most amazing applications of marble I've ever seen. Look at how those veins match up...the sheer symmetry of it all! One of the reasons marble is so great is that it really serves a double purpose: as function and as art. When you find a piece of stone as incredible and unique as this one it deserves to be the center of attention.

Here we are using a light cloudy marble as counter tops. I get asked all the time if marble is a good choice for a counter top and the answer is "Yes!" There's a common misconception that marble is too "fancy" or "formal." Yes, it's beautiful, but it's definitely no pretentious. And remember how the French have been using it for thousands of years? Trust me...it's an excellent choice (as seen here).

Of course, you can't forget this amazing floor tile where we used a variety of marble to create a modern twist on a traditional French check floor. Stay tuned for more updates of our parade home and behind the scenes looks. Things are progressing nicely!

Cara Loren on Alice Lane: The Design

Designing a closet for Cara Loren is like getting to design a magic lasso for Wonder Woman! “Of course!” was our answer when we got the call. It’s not just a closet…it will also serve as her office and set design for her tutorials and fashionable selfies. If you follow her fashion blog, you know the drill.  I immediately began researching her look so we could create the perfect environment to suit her vibe. Together with Alice Lane designer, Stacie Graves, we worked on every last detail for both form and function. Getting Cara’s input was the best part. She had ideas that we incorporated to make this super closet function for her. Cara is as lovely to work with as she is to look at.  It’s been a great collaboration. We can hardly wait till it’s all installed and she can fill it with all of her beautiful clothes, shoes, coats, hats, sunglasses, jewelry, fashion books, and objects of inspiration!

Lucky for us, we had a blank slate to work with. An adjacent room to her bedroom was reconfigured as a huge walk-in closet that could be accessed from inside her room. That's right...a whole room! Let's just all take a second and sigh - sigh. With all this space we were able to design a large modern island that will be centered in the room. Floor to ceiling built-ins will line the walls and house all of her clothes, shoes, and accessories in a beautiful display.

We pictured a desk sitting in front of her large windows, with fashionable roman shades and a large pendant mirror mounted between them. I imagine Cara sitting her in the morning putting on her makeup or writing on her blog, don't you?

Just as we'd hoped for, Cara loved the design! During the presentation she was able to select and approve all finishes and even see some of the accessories that we'll be using to style her closet. Needless to say, we're all a little excited around here!

Cara's closet recently received a fresh coat of paint and the carpet has been installed. Stay tuned for more updates and progress of the closet. You can also visit Cara's blog (caraloren.com) to see her take on the design process. We can't wait to show you how this super closet turns out!

Olivia's Pick - Kazan Chair

There’s just something about acrylic pieces that feel so fancy and elegant. The beautiful Kazan chair does an incredible job of combining both traditional and contemporary design aesthetics. Insert a pair of the Kazan chairs into any room for an easy way to spice things up and add a bit of interest.

I love the way the lustrous velvet compliments the sleek side panels of the chair. Not only is she pretty, but also extremely comfortable - thanks to the soft padded armrests and plush seat & back cushions. The jewelry-like metal caps, shown in brushed brass, are the perfect finishing touch to this eye-catching piece. And the best part? She’s 20% off until April 27th as part of our ‘Very Best Sale’! You know you want come sink down in this chair, so stop by today!

Join The Team

We're hiring for several positions at both our Orem and Salt Lake locations! Check out our CAREERS AT ALICE LANE page for more details.

Currently hiring for the following positions: Interior Designers, Project Coordinators, Accounting Assistant, Purchasing Associate, and Stylists.

Coffee Table Considerations

A wise design professor once told me, “Every sofa longs for a coffee table!” So, when deliberating over this important piece, here are a few things to consider to make sure your table works for you. What is your room missing?

A coffee table can be an excellent piece to help fill any voids in your room. Not just with space, but with style as well. If you have sensible sofas and chairs, try bringing in a little glam through your coffee table! Check out this star: The Melrose Table! The combination of acrylic, stainless steel, and glass is edgy, lovely, and trans-formative. They work together to give the space a heartbeat!

How much space do you have?

Aim for about 20” between the edge of your sofa and the table. A very large room might even benefit from two (yes, two!) coffee tables in one area. Also consider the flow of your room so your coffee table doesn't interfere with any of the main passageways.

How is the room used?

Consider how the coffee table will be treated. Will it serve as extra storage? As an ottoman? Do you have kids that will easily bump into the edges? Or will it be used in a more formal setting? Stepping away from the traditional glass or fine-finished wood coffee tables is an excellent way to add functionality. This Gent, for example, is handsome to look at and also practical, should you need a place for your toes to perch.

How will I dress my coffee table?

Knowing what you plan to put on your coffee table makes all the difference for selecting the right one. I love to keep a tray on the table where any useful items or décor can live. Remotes can be tucked away in a glamorous box. Keep a few interesting books for your guests to flip through. Work in something organic! (A floral, greenery, etc.).

Most of all, your coffee table should provide functionality and suit your own personal style and aesthetic. If you're unsure what that is, come stop by Alice Lane for some inspiration. Right now during our Very Best Sale you can get 20% off all coffee tables.

3 Tips For Buying Quality Upholstery

Buying new furniture is an exciting thing for a lot of us! However, there are so many beautiful options out there that along with all the excitement it can become overwhelming. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you start shopping so that you can filter through your options more quickly and shop with confidence.

Construction:   Most likely you won't have the luxury of seeing the raw frame of the sofa or chair you're interested in, so ask about it's construction. Upholstered furniture that is built with kiln dried hardwood, doweled, screwed and glued frames will increase the longevity of the piece, keeping it from getting creaky over time and reduce any potential failure. Quality construction will ensure your piece will last for years to come.

Comfort: Many people don't realize that a lot of manufactures offer different cushion options (down, poly, or a blend fill). When choosing a cushion think about what makes you most comfortable while using the sofa or chair. For example: Is the sofa going to be used for lounging while watching a movie? If so, consider choosing a down fill. Remember that different cushions require different maintenance too. A down fill, for example, will need to be fluffed each time you’re done using it. I prefer a blend seat myself, but choose what makes you most comfortable.

Fabric: Here’s where it can get really complicated! Every manufacturer has dozens of fabric options and it can get crazy. My advice is to go into the store with a design plan in mind. Know what you want and don’t let the prolific options distract you: keep your eye on the prize! It really comes down to color, content, and texture. Once you know your color scheme, find a fabric that is made of the right materials for your needs. Fabrics with a high content of synthetic fibers will be inherently more stain resistant and durable. If you have little kids this trait won't go unappreciated...trust me. Lastly, look for a fabric with some texture to it. It really doesn't have anything to do with quality per se, but textured fabric helps to hid wrinkles and makes the everyday wear less visible.

My last tip...don't compromise! You don't have to sacrifice comfort for style, or visa versa. With these 3 tips in hand, you have everything you need to find the perfect upholstered piece for your home. And of course, there's no better time to shop than right now when you can get 20% off all upholstery during our Very Best Sale. Happy furniture hunting!

Josh's Pick - The Civil Chair

I love furniture pieces that are unique and interesting, but that feel grounded in classic design. A piece that looks like it’s been around for a while and still manages to be fresh and new.

The Civil chair, designed by Peter Jacob for Wesley Hall, does just that. It is a classic club chair silhouette, but instead of the traditional button tufting, this guy’s got channels stitched into the leather. The channels somehow feel more modern while at the same time giving the chair a bit of a throwback vibe. And check out the woodwork detail on the leg – perfection.

The Civil chair would be great in a library, a study or even the reading nook in your master bedroom. Bonus...during our Very Best Sale, you can get 20% off this and all of our upholstery and casegoods.

Civil Chair - $4659.25

French Moderne Manor - Finish Work

The finish work is almost complete at the parade home and all I can say is...WOW! It's incredibly exhilarating to see our sketches and design plans start to take shape. Bravo to our finish workers who are making it a reality! French architecture is most recognized for it's elaborate and ornate moldings in the finish work, so of course this house is full of it...but with a modern twist of course. It is, how you say, 'je ne sais quoi.' Here's a look at the built-ins from the office that were just installed. See that glass in the middle...that's a fish tank! It's definitely going to be the coolest fish tank I've ever seen. And to say that tiled floor is a show stopper is an understatement!

The newel posts for the railings are incredible - and massive! Once installed, they'll be finished off with a black lacquer coat. You'll also notice a repeating theme throughout the finish work...can you spot it? The circles on the balustrade can be seen again in the large columns in the living area. It's all in the details. We're getting a little anxious for this project to finish up. We can't wait to get in there and get it ready for the Utah Valley Parade of Home this summer. Stay tuned for more updates and sneak peeks on our French Moderne Manor.