HGTV's SHOWHOUSE SHOWDOWN

Happy Halloween.

Protectors of the Home.

I love Porcelain Foo Dogs set together as a pair or individually. They have always been considered protectors of the home. I especially love when the porcelain work of art is given it's own nifty, vibrant and eye-catching presence by painting it any color other than blue, white or brown, or blue or white and/or maybe yellow. Mandarin Orange is cool. It wil add a splash of color into a traditional room while twisting up the modern simplicity of a contemporary interior design. It will also be a bring and smart color foil to my office which is painted in a Navy High Gloss. It's fun to play with interior design. I want to play with two orange Foo Dog Sculptures and I want then the sparkle in vibrant citrus unlike the majority of the beautiful art pieces that are available. The Foo Dog is the guarder of the home. It should be imposing and vibrant and regal and sophisticated, Of set out course, such a Naturally the design and detailing is to be appreciated, but it is the unique color of the two porcelain pieces that aid the snap and sophistication to punctuate just the right interior design. Useful, tasteful and now I found them in orange for only the accessory that gives it just that extra special 'punch". Sometimes it is the accessories in a room that really pull it all together - adding balance, punch, excitement, sophistication and a completely new and fresh outlook on how to place something with great meaning or just plain beauty.

A bit about the Foo Dog - "A Foo Dog, also known as an Imperial Guardian Lion, Fu Lion, Lion of Buddha or Stone Lion, is a common symbol that represents the lion in pre-modern China. The lion is believed to possess protective powers. The lions traditionally were presented at the entries of Chinese Imperial palaces, temples and the homes of officials and wealthy individuals. In Japan a similar lion symbol is used and is known as "shishi" or Snow Lion."

Dapper.

It's been around for quite some time. It is classic, tailored, refined and currently enjoying a revival. It is one of my latest clothing fascinations. It's different, unexpected, and not ordinary. It is a mark of distinction. It's fun and not everyone can pull it off. Or I should say, not everyone will care to pull it off. It is the Club Collar and I think it is quite cool.

Originally, part of Eaton College's dress code the club, (also known as the golf collar) was popular in the early decades of the 20th century. The rounded club collar is having quite a resurgence this Autumn. More traditional clothiers to the avant garde fashion houses are showing this collar. Dare to be different. I wear them with contrasting bow ties or just a pair of jeans and casual shoes.

Iron End Table.

I am fond of this dramatic, sculptural end table from Festoni. It is completely made of iron and is sold without a glass top - or any table top for that matter. The table would look great with a simple glass top, or perhaps a stone table top like a travertine, limestone or granite. A honed stone top would be my preference since the table has a somewhat rustic quality to it.

Festoni is known for finding inspiration for their furnishings from Moorish tiles, rococo wood carvings, Ming Dynasty tables and Venetian glass. Their line is composed of furniture, lighting, and unique decorative home accents.

happy columbus day.

Thank you, Steve Jobs.