Accent Furniture Direct

If you're tired of driving around town to your usual haunts looking for just the right piece to finish out a room, then you are in luck.

Accent Furniture Direct is a great website to find a wide variety accent furniture, art and accessories. They cover most every style, from modern to classic. While they don't necessarily offer bargain pricing, they definitely make up for it on selection.

I have ordered numerous pieces from them, especially the 3-D metal and sculptural art, and have never been disappointed. Their online order process is simple and easy, products ship promptly and the quality of the items themselves has been top notch.

Next time you just can't find what you're looking for (or frankly, just don't know what you're looking for until you see it) pull up their site and take a peek. www.accent-furniture-direct.com

Happy shopping!

New store in Austin!

I'd like to offer a warm welcome to Hemispheres. They just opened last month in NW Austin (at 183A and 1431) and offer a unique mix of furniture at unbeatable prices.

They are currently running deals where all mirrors, framed art, wall decor, lighting, floral, trees and home accents are 50% OFF. They are also discounting their wide assortment of Patio Furniture, also at 50% OFF.

The store itself is cavernous so leave yourself time to peruse the aisles of mirrors, lighting, area rugs and accessories. And plan to strain your neck observing the two story high walls covered with artwork and tapestries.

And don't forget the furnishings - a wonderful mix of styles from old world to cowhide and everything in between.

Stop by and check it out - definitely worth the trip. They do not appear to have an active website so here is the address and phone number:

1501 East Whitestone

Cedar Park, Texas

512-260-2086

Home Staging Inventory Sale

Come visit this HUGE open house / home staging inventory sale in Steiner Ranch.

Saturday, November 22nd
10:00 – 2:00

Amazing selection of discounted designer pieces.

Collections from three different home staging sources and model homes.

Original artwork from local artists.

Window treatments.

Perfect source for holiday gift shopping!

Location:

1228 Horseback Hollow, Austin, 78732
Steiner Ranch, Savannah section

Quinlan Park - pass 3 stop signs
Turn left on Horseback Hollow

Follow Open House signs

Cash and check only.

Come take advantage of this unique opportunity!

Personalize your Art

Now that we all have digital cameras and media storage, how many of your photographs ever make it to print? CANVAS PRESS is a great site that takes your photos and turns them into artwork. You simply download your photos on their site and they can convert them to canvas masterpieces.

There are options to have them fix color, do retouches, even 'erase' small details you may not want visible in your photo. They also have a wonderful option to 'oil paint' your photo. This will make it look like a painting instead of a photograph.

Not only can you create beautiful pieces for you home, you can create wonderful gifts for family and friends.

Prices are very reasonable and they are a local Texas-based company.

Two things to keep in mind...you will want to set your camera to the highest resolution possible when taking pictures and you will want to download them from your camera without compressing the file. These steps will ensure the best results.

http://www.canvaspress.com/

My new fave - Lamps Plus

Having spent a good portion of the last three months sourcing lighting for clients, I can't say enough about Lamps Plus. Many of you from California will be familiar with their retail stores. Although we don't have that option here in Texas, their website serves the purpose. Easy to use, with a flawless delivery system, I have found them easier to work with then other retail locations here in town. And for variety and pricing on all types of lighting, they can't be beat.

Once you get online, take a peak at their other home decor items (bedding, rugs, accessories). They do carry more than just lighting.

Hop online and take a peak next time you want to find something special, or you can't get that final matching piece to a collection - odds are they will have it.

Happy shopping!

Austin Auction GARAGE SALE

THIS WEEK AT AUSTIN

AUCTION GALLERY

“Gallery Garage Sale”

October 2-3-4

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 9AM - 4PM

There won’t be an auction this week, instead they will have a Gallery Wide Garage Sale with thousands of items. Austin Auction has been in their building for 10 years and are pulling treasures from every nook and crannie so don’t miss it. Now now is your chance to buy lots of great items at great prices.

NEW ITEMS ADDED EACH DAY OF THE SALE!!!

For more information call us at 512-258-5479.

Indestructable Patio Art

I recently stumbled across an artist who "adds color to your outdoor world". Her original outdoor art is weather resistant and can be washed down without harming the image surface. These pieces are geared to hold up to moisture, UV rays and humidity.

The canvas is wrapped and painted on all four sides (no outer frame is necessary). Some of the pieces are even three dimensional with die cut wood. It is a great way to add a splash of color to an outdoor space without worrying about fading or damage. Use them to add a bold accent to a sun room, outdoor kitchen, courtyard or pool deck.

The artist will have a showing here in Austin in November (I believe it's the 6th) - take time to check out her website or mark your calendars to go visit in person. Details can be found at http://www.patiopaintings.com/.

Happy shopping!

Fabulous Brazil

When trying to locate accessories for clients' homes there are two common issues that come up:

1) I don't want the same "Pottery Barn" pieces that everyone else has...

2) If I'm going to display something in my home, I'd like it to mean something to me...

I have a great solution - visit another country! Even if you don't have the time or means to travel abroad, you can essentially take a trip to fabulous Brazil right here in Austin.

Ana Brasil is a wonderful shop, located off Anderson Lane just past Shoal Creek. The owner, Ana Teixeira is Brazilian, as are all the staff. When you drop by you are welcomed with the sounds of Brazil, with Bossa Nova or Samba playing in the background. There is a cafezinho (strong, sweet Brazilian espresso) waiting fhttp://www.anabrasil.com/or you and all manner of treats and treasures to explore.

More importantly, Ana takes frequent trips to Brazil to mentor budding artists. She helps them find a market for their work and brings some of their pieces here to Austin. As you walk through her shop, photos and stories of each of the artists abound and are proudly displayed next to their work. Not only can you find some beautiful and unique works, you can feel proud to be helping these artists make a living for themselves and their families.



Ana Brasil is located at 7813 Rockwood Lane, Suite 101, Austin, TX, 78757. Their website is http://www.anabrasil.com/ .

Liquidation of Home Furnishing

http://www.globalliquidators.com

While none of us want to benefit from an other's misfortune I would be remiss if I did not point you in the direction of some really unique sales /auctions in the area.

This coming weekend there is an important on site auction in Steiner Ranch, at the Bluffs. Both the home and contents at 13001 Zen Garden Way (78732) will be up for auction. Movable property includes Persian rugs and carpets, jade collections, Chagall lithographs, furniture, patio sets, antiques, etc. Most of the items will be sold without reserves.

The sale commences Saturday, August 23rd at 12:00pm and again on Sunday, August 24th at 2:oo pm. Doors open 1 hour prior to each auction for viewing.

Purchases can be made with checks (w/ID), Visa, MC, Amex, or cash.

Austin Auction Summer Clearance

Many of you have watched auctions on TV but have never been to one. To get in on the fun, check out Austin Auction Gallery. It is a great opportunity to find those interesting, one-of-a-kind pieces you just don’t see everywhere else. At the end of the month (Saturday, August 30th) they will have their annual Warehouse Clearance auction - see their web site for details.

You can sign up on their website for E-alerts of scheduled auctions - such as the one below that was just held. A great way to stay in the loop!

===================================================================


THIS WEEK AT
AUSTIN AUCTION GALLERY

Saturday August 9, 7:00pm
“Persian Rugs, Oil Paintings, Art Bronzes”

Just Arrived!! A Fresh Selection Of Persian Rugs,
Framed Oil Paintings, And Art Bronzes.

PREVIEW NOW AT
http://austinauction.com/a.html

We are open for preview on Friday 12:00pm until 3:00pm.
We open for preview Saturday at 4:00pm.

Model Home Inventory Clearance

One of my favorite places to poke around, Home Consignment Center, has just landed the inventory from a Model Home Clearance. They are located at Mopac and 360, at the Arbor Walk shopping center.

There are all manner of items:

Sofas
Sectionals
Bookcases
Night Stands
Desks
Libraries
Chairs
Dining Tables
Beds
Lamps
Accessories
...plus much more!!

Check it out for some great deals on designer quality pieces.

Home Consignment Center - Arbor Walk
10515-J N. MoPac Expy.
Austin, TX 78759

512-346-2900
hccaustin2@yahoo.com

Lifesize Wall Murals

I was first introduced to FATHEAD.COM when decorating Sportclips Stores. The shampoo room would always house life size 'photos' of famous athletes, usually representing the home teams of the local region.

Upon further digging, I realized that these static wall clings (great for moving them around without any damage to the wall) went beyond just sports.

They now also feature 'pop culture' figures like Batman, Spiderman, Miley Cyrus, etc.

Anyone looking for big impact in a kids room, sports room, or even a media room, should give the site a look.

The fact that they are so easy to put up and can be moved around, are two big benefits over a traditional painted mural.

Hop on their site and take a look - I think you'll be impressed!

Happy shopping!

Outdoor Furniture Sale

http://www.restorationhardware.com/

As many clients are finishing up summer projects - new pools, outdoor kitchens, patio and deck expansions - the next step is to furnish those exterior spaces.

These pieces need to be made of high end, durable, weather-resistant materials, which means the price can sometimes catch you off guard.

A good deal right now, however, can be had at Restoration Hardware. Their outdoor sets are on sale and they have a range of styles and colors that is hard to beat. If you buy online, you can request express delivery (1-2 weeks) so you will still have plenty of summer left to enjoy them.

Outdoor living is one of the biggest features in new construction and was heavily featured in the recent Parade of Homes. So have don't hold back - have fun and be bold with your outdoor furniture.

Happy shopping!

Accessories Galore

So I know there are many of you who don't want to display anything unless it's unique and has meaning. However, there are times you just need a little something to fill an empty space.

For the money, the Hobby Lobby Wall Accent sale can't be beat. At 50% off all wall decor you can top up your accessories with an interesing assortment of iron, clocks, mirrors and even some greenery.

Goto Hobby Lobby's website and print off their 40% off a single item coupon and bring it with you, in case you spot something else you like that's not on sale.

Many professional home stagers wait for these sales to pick items for the model homes around town - so don't miss out.

Happy shopping!

Custom Built TV Console

For those who are tired of seeing a flat screen TV above the fireplace, here is a beautiful alternative. These custom built TV cabinets are themselves a work of art and can be built to match any decor.

As with any custom piece expect a longer lead time to order - about 6 weeks.

While not cheap (they start at about $6900) for those who want a truly unique centerpiece for their great room, this is it.

Contact Shelly Mazurek at Divinely Designed for more details, or visit their website http://www.d-vinelydesigned.com/.

Happy shopping!

Four Hands Fever

Yes...brace yourselves. It's time once again for the Four Hands semi-annual warehouse sale. Get ready to fight the crowds and get amazing deals on all manner of home furnishings, rugs and accessories.

They'll have up to 75% off on overstocked, discontinued and slightly damaged furniture. Based on past experience, there will be some outstanding deals and a great, ecclectic mix of pieces.

Although the advertisements only say one weekend, it will typically last at least two, if not three weekends running. New items are brought in daily so it's worth checking back. Sometimes the best deals to be had are on the final weekend. They also have a delivery service available.

I've had clients furnish entire rooms from this sale in the past so make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to walk around and see it all. They use the old Rooms To Go store location at 2222 and Airport Road for this special sale.

So mark your calendar and don't miss the best sale in Austin.
Happy shopping!

Valeskas Iron & Pottery

If you are looking for some Spanish style pieces to accent your home, I suggest you make the trip to Fredricksburg and visit Valeskas Iron & Pottery.

Located on Highway 290, about 8 miles of Fredricksburg, you will find their main showroom. There is also a second smaller shop in downtown Fredricksburg. Valeskas have all manner of outdoor pots, iron work, and patio pieces.

Don't just stop after prowling through the yard in front. Go around back to their furniture showroom where they feature an amazing selection of decorative pottery at VERY reasonable prices, starting as low at $29.99. They offer a great assortment of copper, bronze and enamel sinks at prices you can't beat. They have rustic furniture, custom metal and stone tables, unique backlit wall art and much more.

If you need a firescreen, Matt can take matching stone from your home and create a beautiful custom firescreen to compliment any style and size of fireplace.

Valeskas is open 9-6, seven days a week. It's definitely worth the drive!

Happy shopping!

Horsefeathers!

Although at a glance it may look like a cuss word, this is actually the name of the best accessory store I've stumbled across in a some time.

On a recent weekend jaunt to Salado I had the pleasure of dropping in and discovering this treasure trove. Filled with mirrors, artwork, candles, small furnishings and all manner of accessories it was impossible to know where to look first. For those of us who need to be more practical, it is the price tag we glance at. Another pleasant surprise...the prices were downright affordable.

Having crossed that hurdle I could settle in for a good poke around. They made it very easy. Occupying a century old house, the store was divided into separate rooms and even color coded. There was the red room, the green room, the tan room and so forth. Even those who deem themselves 'decorating-challenged' could easily select an armful of coordinating items.

It took me at least two or three laps of the store to take it all in and feel confident that I had seen everything. Having decided on several pieces, some of the friendliest staff took over the process. They got everything bundled up and I was off with a wave and an invitation to come back...which I will definitely do!

Although Salado (north of Georgetown) is a bit of a drive, I will make Horsefeathers a regular stop. Great selection, great prices, great town...what's not to love?

Happy shopping!

Horsefeathers is located at 680 N. Main Street in Salado. They are open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 to 5:30. Phone : (254) 947-3203.

Fabulous Bronze at Ethnic Loft

I recently made a wonderful new discovery.

Ethnic Loft is a store tucked away along 2222, between Burnett and Lamar. Maria, the owner, brings items from China and has some of the most unique pieces I've seen in a while. They range from traditional ink stamps, to masks, to furnishings, to textiles and all manner of accessories.

It is a veritable treasure trove. Even better - the prices are reasonable.

Most notable are the bronze pieces. With incredible patina and detail, they sell for under $100 in the size range shown here. Any one of them could grace a mantle or be the focal point of an art niche.

So treat yourself to a little cultural immersion and stop in to see Maria. I am confident you will be equally charmed!

For a video tour of the store goto www.VideoSomething.com and type in Ethnic Loft. Happy shopping!

Overstock.com for outdoor rugs

Overstock.com is often overlooked as a great outlet for finding deals.

Right now they have a variety of indoor / outdoor rugs, starting as low as $29.99 for 3x5's.

These come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, colors and patterns and can be used in many spots around the house, not just the patio.

Check out the selection - you'll be amazed. Good luck and happy shopping!

Vessel Sinks

You have heard by now of Floor and Decor, an outlet that offers great prices on all types of woods (real or engineered) and tile (ceramic, porcelain, slate, travertine).

What you may not know is that they also carry Vessel Sinks. These are perfect for powder room remodels where you have very little space to place a traditional vanity. Prices begin as low as $99 for their Glass Forest clear sink and go up to $399 for the very unique Black Granite Boat Sink.

Floor & Decor are located at the corner of Braker and Hwy 183, behind the Einstein Bagels.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Picture this...

I'd like to introduce you to a website called AllPosters.com. I think the name is deceiving because they don't only sell posters. They have one of the most comprehensive collections of fine art, decorative art, modern pieces and yes, even movie style and vintage posters. (I can see them gracing a media room wall already...) The interesting thing is that most pieces can be purchased several different ways: unframed, framed and matted, printed on canvas and even made into tapestries.

Go to their Featured Categories section on the home page and then look at the On Sale tab. You'll be blown away at the prices. If you have an eye for finding beautiful but inexpensive frames (like Michael's 40% off frame sale going on now) then you can end up with a fabulous piece to give your room a lift, for pennies on the dollar.

The poster shown here is by an artist named Justin Bua - just one of the thousands of unique pieces you can find.
Good luck and happy shopping!

Furniture Show Samples

Not just your typical consignment store, the Home Consignment Center (at the shops at Bee Caves and also now at Arbor Walk) has both new and consigned pieces.

This week they just picked up samples from the High Point North Carolina furniture show. They have a wide selection of items which they'll be unpacking and putting on the sales floor all week.

Items include:

- copper and marble top sinks, vanities, consoles and islands

- large solid wood bookcases

- leather (all colors) sofas, loveseats, sectionals, chairs and ottomans

- boxes full of all manner of accessories

It's also a great place to find that special piece that you need to complete a room but can't find in the typical big box furniture stores.

If you've never stopped in, this is the perfect week to drop by...a hidden treasure for sure.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Model Home - Contents Sale

Do you ever wonder what happens to all the beautiful accessories and furniture in model homes? Well here is the answer...Gehan Homes have announced a sale at two of their models. All the contents will be sold and it's a great way to get a designer look for your home without paying a decorator's fee.

Here is the scoop:

Sale #1
Saturday, April 12 from 10am-12pm
3501 Longhorn Trail
Round Rock, TX
Eagle Ridge Subdivision - Gehan Homes
(Behind Ikea off of I35 and 1421)

Sale #2
Saturday, April 19 from 10am-12pm
1901 Rachel Lane
Round Rock, TX
Enclave of Town Center Subdivision - Gehan Homes
(Off Gatis School Road)

They will have movers available for local moves starting at 1:00pm if you need help getting your purchases home.

Good luck and happy shopping...