Photo By Pam L. Connolly
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The Landau family got its start as dealers of the iconic Ethan Allen brand with a single handshake back in 1957, when Bill Landau agreed to showcase the line in his Early American furniture store in Hartsdale. Today, his son-in-law, David Connolly, is a partner at the Central Avenue institution and loves every minute of it because, he says, he gets “to work with such talented people.” Below, he and his talented team share their favorite trends for the home this spring.
The art is in the craft
Any workmanship that reveals the hand of the craftsman is in vogue. Look for detailed tailoring in a sofa, hand-knotting in an area rug, or rubbed-antique finishes on a chest or table. Visible saw marks, decorative stitching, nailheads, and hand-worked iron are all details that provide a note of authenticity to a piece and enhance its value.
A tuft act to follow
Tufted upholstery (with or without buttons) adds textural interest when color or pattern is lacking. Traditionally, it looks great with leather but can add a stylish fashion embellishment with lots of different fabrics.
Heavy metal
Hand-gilded gold or silver accents applied to a traditional profile on furniture is elegant while making an old-world statement. Consider a premium wood finish, which may have a subtle undertone of sheen integrated into the natural wood color. If a large table or dresser is more metallic than you are comfortable with, consider using gold or silver accents.
Hitting it right on the head
Nailheads help define the silhouette of a piece and reinforce the sculptural qualities of furniture. They remain a very popular option.
Nifty shades of gray
Think gray is timid? Think again. Try cloud, mushroom, metal, granite, graphite, or charcoal hues. Black and white, in a subtle pattern or handsome geometric, can serve as a neutral base similar to gray. Grays set the stage for the pop of color in a throw pillow or other accessory.
A rainbow coalition
Pops of color are not going anywhere. They are a great way to update a neutral room. You can change colorful accessories out as you please or with the seasons. Infuse this trend into your home through custom-framed artwork, throw pillows, blankets, and area rugs.
Keep your eyes on the prize—accessorize!
Adding artwork, mirrors, and decorative accents completes the finished look clients desire and makes the room uniquely theirs, but function comes first, of course. Is there a small accent table handy, to set down a cup of coffee? Is there a lamp to read by? Is there a three-way lamp that allows adjustment to the mood of a room? These are all things to consider when choosing accessories for your room.
You can see all of these trends, as well as the entire Ethan Allen line, on display in their showroom.
Ethan Allen
152 S. Central Avenue in Hartsdale
(914) 684-0360
www.ethanallen.com/hartsdale