Anothur Decor

Where Did We Go?

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 21:14:00 +0000

Oh hello!

We moved! Come and visit us at www.anothurdecor-blog.com

Good day
--David Charles

When Pigs Fly

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:14:00 +0000

Oh hello!

I was recently visiting my dear sister Jane. In her apartment I noticed two ceramic pigs on the floor. I found this interesting considering my sister is bit of a city girl. When I inquired, I discovered my sister has a new collection...pigs!

On a visit to an antique mall Jane saw a cute little ceramic pig "squealing" her name! She fell in-love. Jane thought that the pig looked happy and loved the pink little snout! However she hadn't decided if pigs were the way to go that day. Over the next couple weeks Jane kept thinking of the little piglet and her found memories of visiting our grandfather on the farm. Jane has vivid memories of pigs when she was just a little girl; she remembers all the good times on the farm and she can still hear my grandfather calling to the pigs..."souie! souie!"

Well, my other sister Sheila decided to get some "brownie" points and surprised Jane with the pig! That was Jane's first little piggy in her collection. Her second pig unfortunately didn't have a pink snout; so Sheila painted the snout with pink finger nail polish! Well, this has now become the trend...the pigs must have a pink snout. Jane looks and collects only happy pigs...she believes you can tell it the pig is happy by the way it stands and expresses itself.

Many folks collect items that remind them of their past. Do you have a special collection that reflects your life story? If so send me some pics!

"Every girl should be two things: Classy & Fabulous" Coco Chanel.
Words to live by according the Jane.

Good Day

--D. Charles

A Vintage Safari...Pack your Bags!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 24 Jun 2012 22:28:00 +0000

Oh hello!

I love being on the "hunt" for treasures. My Safari for this weekend led me deep into the jungles of two great antiques stores in my neighborhood.

My adventure began in the amazing Broken Buckle Antique store in the lower level of the Landmark. I love visiting my friends at the Broken Buckle. Always welcoming me with a smile and a sincere "How are you?" For this Safari they played tour guide and showed me and my friend one of their new finds they just added to their inventory.

Quickly walking through the store, only slowing down a few times to allow my eyes to hunt, they showed us the prize of the day, well...prizes! An amazing set of vintage luggage was set before us...saying "Lets go!!" These three pieces were wonderful. The condition was good and ideas of what I could do with them danced in my head. One of them had a surprise inside for me! The largest piece had clothes hangers inside for your shirts/dresses! It also included the original tissue paper (to wrap your garments) and the original brochure! The silk liner was in perfect condition as well!

After a little price negotiation my friend and I had luggage in hand heading to the apartment. Originally I thought of using them as a side table, however while entering the foyer I had a great idea! The three pieces now set in the entry way! I added a vintage New York map, added some flowers and now I have an entry way vignette to welcome guests. I'm tempted for the my next trip to actually use this amazing luggage!

The second half of my weekend Safari led me to the "Flea Market" style of Brownstone Antiques. This store is truly a jungle of vintage furniture, paintings, accessories and clothes. Down every path through the merchandise my eyes searched for the perfect piece. I discovered a great little school desk that I just fell in love with. It needs some cleaning and sanding, but after a make over this will be a great piece for the home. Do you have any ideas? Should I paint it a funky color or stain it a beautiful dark mahogany? Hmm... decisions!

Good day!
--D. Charles

Step Back in Time at the Vintage Bazaar

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 23:31:00 +0000

Oh hello!

The Ballroom in the Aragon.

My adventure back in time began with walking into the grand foyer of the Aragon Entertainment Center http://aragon.com in the Chicago neighborhood of Uptown. The Aragon was originally built in 1926 with a Spanish palace courtyard style. This building is amazing! Every surface is painted and adorned. In the midst of the building lays a beautiful ballroom were an approximate 50 million people have danced through the years spanning the 20s to the 40s! Now-a-days the space is used for special events, dances and concerts.

The pleasant and cordial Rose.

On the day I visited it was hosting the Vintage Bazaar http://www.thevintagebazaar.com. The Vintage Bazaar is a blog as well as a Pop-Up market focusing on vintage decor, fashion, and accessories. June's event was no exception to amazing finds and interesting characters. It was inspiring to see folks so excited about decor, fashion and relics of the past and giving them a new homes. The event was so large, in addition to the dozen venders inside, there was 90 more outside! This was a great event. Folks were buying, negotiating and bargaining. While leaving I saw several cars packed full to the point of stuff hanging out of the windows and trunk!

Visiting the Vintage Bazaar was great! I got to see a great space, visit with folks and get inspired! The next Vintage Bazaar will be July 8th! Will I see you there?

A great little vignette setup by Karen Cooper.

Vintage Edison...Jim Ligon creates amazing lighting units using
recycled wine & liquor boxes and bottles!
Check him out at www.vintageedison.com

Chair and Pillow by our friend Nara!

Good Day

--D. Charles

NeoCon...Think Big...and they did!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 23:36:00 +0000

Oh hello!

What do you get when you put hundreds of furniture venders, thousands of designers and decor enthusiasts together under one roof? NeoCon 2012 (www.neocon.com) of course!

This year's theme was "Think Big." This was my first year to attend and I was drained after leaving! This is a three day event packed full of venders, presentations and seminars.

NeoCon is a mecca, a destination - the largest exposition and conference for commercial interiors in North America.

So what did I get from this year's NeoCon? A few things...

Trending

Bright colors (not excluding White) bright Green and/or Orange seem to be most popular
Sleek, clean design focusing on functionality and ergonomics.
Customization of work-spaces
Floor covering panels
High-back chairs
Oh yes...and men's bow ties!

Couple Points of Interest

--Moving Murals www.movingmurals.com
These amazing LED murals move in "True Definition." I was blown away with the detail and realism of these murals. You need to check this out! Oh...and there is audio as well!

--Miliken Floor Covering www.millikencarpet.com
As mentioned above floor covering is a "happening" product to have. Miliken takes it to another level by incorporating Design and Color through their new Color Wash.

Color Wash is the latest collection that highlights Milliken’s contemporary and advanced methods of reimagining the floor plane, while illustrating large scale, continuous and seamless gradation with nuanced color change.

Good day!
--D. Charles

We are NOT art "collectors"...

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 02 Jun 2012 21:11:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

I recently had the privilege to visit some friends in their unique and neclectic home. From the outside the house is a beautiful ranch style, however once entering the home you soon find and whole new world to discover!

Walking up to the front door I knew I was in for a treat! After being warmly welcomed, my eyes began to dance around the house trying to soak in all that was to be seen. My friends offered me a glass of water, however I almost forgot to take any sips because of the spectacles in the room.

These folks have been "collecting" for many years from literally around the world. They don't consider themselves collectors."

“We have chosen the things we have (and enjoy) because they inspire us, lift our spirits, or evoke memories of people and places we love.”

How wonderful! I love this...they collect because it brings joy...they don't collect for monetary or social clout. Each piece has story, emotion or person attached to it. It was awe inspiring to see my friend's faces light up while sharing their stories. Many of their pieces are hand-crafted from local artisans.

While having great conversation...somebody decided to add his two cents! It was Chip their parrot! What a treat! Chip had so much to say about everything (however he was a bit repetitive..LOL...don't tell him I said that!). I think I learned a thing or two. The other family member,Wally the dog, had retired to his private chambers (he gets a little to excited when company arrives.)

Please enjoy the pictures below. These are just a "tasting" of their "collections." I can not do justice to their personal stories and excitement for each piece.

"Story Teller Violin"

Hand crafted chairs. No nails were used in producing these amazing chairs!

Egyptian Hieroglyphics.

Lithography rubbing copies of Petroglyphs from New Mexico.

Wall of amazing art!

Good Day!

--D. Charles

Out and About...Mike Manning

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 19 May 2012 21:57:00 +0000

Oh hello!

While walking through the historic streets of Springfield, Illinois I came across an artist painting a decorative guitar. I was intrigued! I introduced myself and before I knew it I was adventuring through his studio! He has a great storefront in the Old State Capital Plaza. This gallery is an amazing collection of art! The store features the works of the renown Springfield Artist Mike Manning! His playful approach to his art and life makes him an amazing artist. Mike has be doing professional art for 23 years and Springfield folks have enjoyed his work and playful character. He can be seen out and about with his easel and/or paper and pencil creating art.

It was a pleasure to spend some time with this artisan. If you are interested in his work please email me and I will convey the message. Below are just a few pictures of his collection, however they barely scratch the surface!

Good day!
--D. Charles

Bringing Old Discarded Metal to Life!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Fri, 18 May 2012 02:41:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

Re-use and re-purpose are hot topics in today's culture. I love the concept and principle of using items over again and giving them a new "purposeful life." One of my friends is doing that exact thing, however she is making art!

From the tin of old barns artisan Jennifer Rouston of Metal Girl is creating one-of-kind pieces for the home and lawn. She has been creating these pieces of art for only year, but she is already in high demand! Folks are going wild over her hand-painted designs.

After a shape and size is determined by Jennifer and/or her customer; she then gets out her paint and brushes. Vivid colors, stripes and polka-dots are diligently hand-painted onto what some would consider as simply an old piece of metal. Suddenly a design unfolds and a unique, fun inspired piece is created!

I love her whimsical designs and aesthetics. It is amazing to see a piece of old discarded tin made into a piece of art that everyone enjoys!

Please have a look at the following pictures and be inspired. If you would like to inquire with Jennifer regarding her creations for your home decor or yard please contact her at jen.metalgirl@yahoo.com.

Each piece begins as raw metal from barns.

After an undercoat application the piece is ready for color!

Good day,
--D. Charles

Discussion: Douglas Herman...Decor, Life & Design

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 06 May 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Oh Hello,

I recently had the privilege to spend an evening with my friend Douglas. I have always admired Douglas' sense of design, style and artistic eye. We spent the evening talking, laughing and discussing home decor.

From Douglas' humble beginnings grew a desire to obtain a life of design, art and a true sense of happiness. As a young man Douglas had limited means, however this was instrumental for him to learn to be resourceful and gain a passion to change his world. Even as a young man he had an appreciation of beauty and design.

Douglas loves and appreciate all styles of home design...as long as it is done well. His personal style is one made of "mixing things up." He merges and incorporates design styles and makes them harmonize into a home of comfort, style and happiness. He believes that it all balances on the ability to properly arrange items so that they produce a conducive energy in the space. When one has this energy in the home it can highly effect that person's outlook, feelings and daily life.

Douglas is open to counsaltation; if you have any questions or a trouble area in your home decor contact Douglas at dwdesigns@gmail.com

Good Day

--D. Charles

International Antiques Fair 2012

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:18:00 +0000

Oh Hello,

Being so old never looked so good! I went to the 2012 International Antiques Fair at the Merchandise Mart http://www.merchandisemartantiques.com/spring/ in Chicago. It was amazing to see hundreds of booths full of antiques and vintage items from BC to the early 20th Century. The merchandise spanned literately from around the globe...Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas, etc.

There were a few featured designers that I found to be amazing. Ramsey J Prince and Summer Thornton. Their compositions were inspiring and beautiful! Amazing how one can use "old stuff" to make such striking rooms!

Please enjoy few of the pictures I took as I wondered around this years Antique Fair.

RJP Designs http://ramseyjayprincedesigns.com/

Summer Thornton Design www.summerthorntondesign.com

Brenner|Valdez |Antiques| Interiors

Toulouse Antique Gallery, Inc

Good Day
--D. Charles

FORM...Art and Floral...What a Show!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 15:37:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

When my good friend Angela Bryant from Abryant Gallery asked me to attend Form: Art + Floral, I was intrigued. I love art and I love flowers...so what better show to go to? The show at the Loft on Lake was a juried group-exhibition made up of ten artists and five florists sponsored by Natural Beauties Floral, Reenie Rose Abryant Gallery and Kristine Aletha Weddings.

Form was exactly what the title says "Art + Floral." An artist submitted an original work and then a florist interpreted that piece into a floral arrangement.

The artwork and accompanying floral arrangement are on exhibit to show the dialogue that happens through the art of interpretation.

The artists and florists at this show were amazing! Their creations and interpretations were awe inspiring. To see the original piece of art an then how the florist saw it through the creative eye of floral arrangement was fascinating.

I've included a few pictures of the event. I also listed the artists and their contact information, please have a look at their websites...you''ll be inspired.

Angela Bryant-www.abryantgallery.com
Robert Burnier-www.world3ideas.com
Tom Burtonwood-www.tomburtonwood.com
Young Cho-www.young-cho.com
Helen Maurene Cooper-www.hmcooper.com
Robin Dluzen-www.robindluzen.com
Loreen Hospodar-www.reeierose.com
Sam Jaffe-www.samjaffe.org
Mike Nudelman-www.mikenudelman.com
Morgan Sims-www.morgan-sims.com

Natural Beauties Floral-www.naturalbeautiesfloral.com/

Reenie Rose-www.reenierose.com/

Abryant Gallery-www.abryantgallery.com

Kristine Aletha Weddings-www.kristinealethaweddings.com

Good Day!

--D. Charles

DIY...Denim Fabric Wall Covering

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 19:43:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

They say anything goes with denim. Well what about having denim on your wall?! I have a great sun-room in my apartment with windows on two of the walls. The facing wall though is a bit drab. So I decided it needed a little pizzazz. I have applied fabric to walls in other areas of the apartment so I thought it would be great in my sun-room as well.

The reason I love applying fabric to walls because you can change it if you don't like it; you can wash it if it gets dirty; it adds texture to the wall and you have endless options!

I found a nice dark denim material at a local fabric store. By the advice of the sales person I washed the denim to ensure it wouldn't stain the wall. After washing the material it was time to get started!

Supplies List:

Plastic Bucket
Liquid Starch
Brushes
Squeegee
Water
Exacto Knife
Push Pins

First Clean the Wall.
Hold the fabric up to ensure it will fit the area you are trying to cover. Also measure the wall and allow about 2 inches of extra material beyond the area you are covering. My material isn't as wide as my wall, which I like. The color of the wall will actually frame the material, plus since it is denim is a bit frade on the edge I thought if would add a neat dynamic to the wall.
Begin brushing on the starch to the wall (I sometime add a little water). Quickly apply the fabric to the "starched" wall. Use the push pins to hold the fabric in place. I try to do small sections horizontal and working my way down the wall.
Use the squeegee to smooth the fabric and push out the air bubbles, however I found that using my hands worked better for this project.
Apply another application of starch on top of the fabric.
Once you get the starch on the wall/fabric allow it dry and trim the excess.

Viola! You have a beautiful new wall with color and texture.

Before

After

After...I decided to add my wing back chair (I'm actually composing this blog from that chair!)

Adding the chair makes a perfect reading spot for the sun-room.

Good Day!

--D. Charles

The Majestic St. John the Divine

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 03:02:00 +0000

Oh Hello,

During this past weekend while visiting New York I discovered an inspiring, beautiful and tradition cathedral on the Upper West Side. While walking in Harlem I notice in the far distance a large domed building. Following the sight I soon found this gem. The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine http://www.stjohndivine.org sits majestically on the corner of Amsterdam and Cathedral Parkway.

Walking up to the church I was in awe by the staircase, statues,and enormous doors. When entering the medieval style cathedral the sounds of a choir echoed through the sanctuary. Colored light from the amazing stained glass windows cascaded down the walls and floors. I was inspired by this majestic marble and stone building. As I was exiting the church the pipe organ bellowed an amazing hymn. The sound was so overwhelming it literally vibrated within me. Wow what an invigorating experience! Please enjoy the following photos and think how they may inspire your own creativity or home decor.

Good Day!
--D. Green

DIY - Bookcases with a Pop!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 23:24:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

I was recently needing some bookcases. I didn't want to spend very much money and while visiting Target I saw these bookcases...only $20 each! For convenience and time I picked up a couple of them. They are very basic 3 shelve bookcases that are more functional than design. However I was just needing a basic bookcase for storage.

I decided they needed a little pop! So I found some great wrapping paper and picked up some spray adhesive from a local store. I took the back off and applied the paper. I trimmed the edges and nail the backing back on.

After a little de-cluttering and dusting I now have two great little bookcases with just a touch of design. This is a very easy 20 min project. Sometimes in design it is just the litle, simple things that a can make a world of difference. Give it try on your bookcases and send me your pics! anothur.decor@gmail.com

I really liked this design!

I took the backing off and applied a spray adhesive

I lined up the upper right corner as my reference point.

Viola!

Good Day!
--D. Charles

DIY Pillows by Nara!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:18:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

I love pillows! When I was kid I thought that one day when I grow up that I would have a room full of pillows! I would daydream about jumping into the middle of the room and play in the pillows! Well, I'm still working on making that dream a reality...maybe someday! In the mean time I love decorating with pillows. Pillows are one of the easiest and cheapest (most of the time) accessories that can change the entire dynamic of a room. By simply changing the style, fabric or placement you can create new and different ambiance within minutes and help to establish your accent color and style. The best part is that they are soft and squeezable!

My good friend Nara has begun the craft of making beautiful pillows for her home as well as friends! With an incredible sense of design and eye for detail Nara is able to create one-of-a-kind cushions. She is drawn to color and pattern when picking fabric for her new creations. She finds fun and exciting fabrics and after a little measuring and sewing she creates amazing pillows. If you are interested in her making you a pillow please email me at anothur.decor@gmail.com and I will have her contact you!

Psst...Soon Nara is going to show us how she makes these incredible cushions in a Anothur Decor Pillow DIY blog! Check back so!

Nara finds some great patterns!

This is a pattern that Nara is planning to use
in the master bedroom...thus Love Birds!

Tools of the trade!

Viola!

Good Day

--D. Charles

Embellish your Home with "Boutique"

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Oh hello!

In one of my previous blogs I wrote about 5 of my favorite things at the One of Kind show held at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago. The Boutique Home booth surely caught my attention with the extravagant fabrics, bedding and embellished pillows. I knew instantly that this boutique would be a true home decor adventure!

In the midst of samples, fabric books and a pair of pink glasses, owner Shari Cornes welcomed me with a bright eyed smile. Boutique Home creates couture bedding, drapery, canopies, headboards and upholstery. It is one of the last true European boutiques in Chicago. They have an incredible showroom on the first floor and a sewing room downstairs for the team of seamstresses. Not only do they design and create these incredible pieces but also do full installation. Intense detail and embellishment is a true niche for this store.

Boutique Home has an outstanding library of fabric. They buy their fabrics directly from the mills, from literally around the globe, cutting the cost drastically for the customer.

Boutique Home is now in the process of opening a second store in Geneva, Illinois.

Shari has been designing since her adolescence. With having a fashion designer Mother and an artisan Father, design and style is second nature.

Shari's design process is definitely unique. After determining her clients' needs and wants, she personalizes the designs with the use of color, texture and pattern. The designed pieces are beyond expectations.

Please enjoy the following photos.

For more photos and information please visit Boutique Home at
http://www.boutiquehomeonline.com/

Good Day

--D. Charles

Downtown Chicago...at Dusk...Breathtaking!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:01:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

I was walking through Downtown Chicago along the river at dusk this evening. The reflective buildings, dark blue sky and vibrant street lights caught my attention. It's always inspiring to me to see beautiful sky scrappers reaching for the clouds. Some are very tall, others shorter, some are new, some are very old, however they all thrust from the sidewalks like pillars of man's accomplishments (okay was that too cheesy?). Chicago is rich in both new construction and old construction, especially downtown. Somehow the two seem to balance each other out...almost creating a rhythm.

This concept is practiced in many homes today. People have older items in their decor, or antiques, yet go Crate and Barrel and by a contemporary modern piece. The old and new create an energy or balance when they are in a room together.

Enjoy the few photos I took this evening. Think about how the new and old work together...complimenting each other.

Newly Constructed Trump Tower...it almost perfectly blends into the sky!

Marina City (1964) with it's two corncob towers and Trump Tower in the back ground.

Base of Trump Tower with the Wrigley Building (1920) in Center of photo.

Wrigley Building with the Tribune Tower (1925) behind it (technically it's across the street on Michigan Ave).

Good day!
--D. Charles

Anothur Decor Facebook...do you like me?

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 06:29:00 +0000

Oh hello!

Well I just started a Facebook page for Anothur Decor! Over the next few days I will continue to build the page and begin posting. Feel free to to friend me! And be sure and tell your friends about the new Facebook page and blog. I really want to help create a community of people who have an interest in home decor and to have an open forum to share, discuss and inspire.

Click the Facebook Badger to the Right!

Good Day!
--D. Charles

Learn It...Live It!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:22:00 +0000

Oh hello!

One of my objectives for this blog is to share my learning experience in home decor and design. I feel that there is always something new to learn, experience and live everyday! I'm in process of developing small "teaching" series within the next few weeks. These "Learn it...Live it!" series will explore the history, logic and application of home design.

As I learn the principles of design I will share them with you the reader. If you have questions or a particular subject that you would like to know more about email me dayvidcharles@gmail.com. I will also always include resources for you do explore and to do research for yourself.

Good day!
--D Charles

True American Picker...Collections of Americana

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 18:54:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

"One man's trash in another man's treasure." Is a comon quote that is perfectly depicted in the new show, American Pickers. This show is about the adventures and great finds that two antique store owners have while they travel around the country for "new" items for their store.

Before there was an American Picker TV show, my friend, Al was a self proclaimed "picker" for many, many years. He has been collecting, restoring and selling incredible items! Al has an extensive and amazing collection of Americana, much of which he restored himself! I was amazed at his collection and how passionate he is about it. His dedication and attention to detail while restoring a piece is outstanding. This blog won't truly do justice to his craft, collection and knowledge, however I hope it will give you a glimmer of this true American Picker's collection.

Please join me in the following photos as I adventured through his man cave. This is only a part of his entire collection. If you have any questions or specific interest in any of the items, please email me at anothur.decor@gmail.com and I will forward them to Al.

Let's begin with his jukebox...

In his own words...

In 1950, the Seeburg Corporation created something very unique for consumers, the first 45 rpm jukebox. Another first for Seeburg, this jukebox could play 100 selections, four times greater that any other jukebox. When I first saw this jukebox, it was a diamond in the rough. The owner had placed this jukebox on their sun porch, it would play the same Elvis tune repeatedly. The owner had tried a restoration project, however failed miserably in my book. This was the same jukebox that was used on Happy Days, the keyboard is shown during the beginning of every show. I would not suggest this project for anyone without patience as these old jukeboxes are a labor of love. The outside of the cabinet was veneered in the original zebra wood, all of the metal was replated, the amplifier and the mechanism was completely overhauled. Instead of downloading the music from a website, many of the original 45 rpm records are available for about two dollars a record. The tube amplifier has an amazing sound, this jukebox is very impressive for its vintage.

Restored - The 1950's Seeburg 100B was the first 45 RPM Jukebox ever made.

Restored

Restored - Al restored all the mechanisms within the jukebox.

Before

Restored - The Coke Cola machine is a Vendo 81, mid 50's model that dispenses 81 bottles of Coke. With it's rounded corners and ability to dispense various sized bottles, it has become a true collector's item.
If you have a nickel or dime you can quench your thirst with a Coke Cola beverage!

The tall gravity feed is a Wayne model 615, circa 1928. It sets on the landing before entering Al's man cave.
I see it as an appetizer to the amazing collection waiting!

Can you imagine pulling up in your Model-A to this gas pump?

The Ferris Wheel seat was built by the Eli Bridge company in Jacksonville, IL and was made in the early 1900's.
Anyone up for a ride?

The Neon clock was made by the Cleveland Clock Company & was popular between 1930 to 1950.
Because it was neon I couldn't get my camera to show it's brilliant neon colors :-(
The Bennett 766 Shell Gas pump & sign are from the early 1950s.

Restored - Model 562 brass cash register was made in 1916 for the Chi, Wilm, Franklin Coal Company

Restored - The small brass cash register was made in 1910 by the National Cash
Register Company and originally sold for $75.

The Barber Chair is a Belmont model and was produced in the early 1950's.
The chair is fully functional and reclines for the patron who is getting the extra close shave.

Restored - The telephone is a 1920s model produced by the Western Electric Company.
It still works and you can actually make calls! No texting though!

The Gamewell alarm boxes are still in use in Boston, Chicago and various other cities.

Good day!
--D Charles

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:12:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

What is the most magical element in a room or an area this time of year? Is it the sound of bells? Decorations? Maybe food?! Well I think the Christmas Tree is the most magical. They are not just beautiful but they tell and convey a story. They induce memories and excite even the “Grinches” of Christmas. Be it a traditional evergreen or a tinsel tree or even a Charlie Brown Christmas tree, they all add the essence of the holidays.

I’ve had several readers submit their photos of their Christmas trees this year. They are beautiful photos. Notice how each picture tells a story or conveys a feeling. What do your decorations/tree say about you and/or your home?...What story are you wanting to tell? I was also allowed to take a quick photo of the famous Christmas tree located in the center of the Walnut Room at Macy’s in Downtown Chicago! As well as Union Station.

Please enjoy the photos below!

"This year, I expanded my glass ornament collection and focused on jewel-tones. I think the lights reflect the glass so beautifully, and perhaps it is symbolic of the notion that I have had a more than reflective year, and am ready to shine a little brighter in the next one. "
Bridget, Anothur Decor Blog Reader

Christmas Tree at the Daley Plaza, Downtown Chicago.

I've been told great detail goes into placing the strand of lights on every single branch of this beautiful tree; it is time consuming however it is done with love and care! Patrick, Anothur Decor Blog Reader.

45' Christmas Tree in the Walnut Room at Macy's, Chicago.

Christmas Tree at Ogilvie Train Station, Chicago.

All lit up and ready for Santa Clause, this tree glows for passers by on the street.
I also like that the tree is a little bit short so that it can be placed on a 2' base for all presents!
Michael, Anothur Decor Blog Reader

Series of Christmas Trees & over-sized ornaments at Union Station, Chicago.

Good Day and Happy Holidays!
--D Charles

Nutty for Nutcrackers!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 04:55:00 +0000

Oh Hello,

I recently visited a friend that has an amazing collection of nutcrackers! All different sizes, characters and styles from around the world. He has been collecting nutcrackers for many years and has a collection of 48 so far. Below are some photos of some his most valuable nutcrackers! Many of them are the beautiful German handcrafted Steinbachs! http://www.steinbachnutcracker.com

Every year when he purchases a new Steinbach he places the date on the bottom for reference. This collection is amazing! Each nutcracker is in mint condition and is cared for with love. I love how he incorporated the nutcrackers throughout his home; especially the 6 foot nutcracker that meets you at the front door (This is his favorite.)

I believe that is a design factor as well. If you have a collection of some sort, place the pieces throughout the home (within reason of course). This gives people a glimpse of your passion and therefore creates a connection.

Thanks to my friend for sharing his passion and wonderful collection of nutcrackers!

Good day!
--D Charles

Wing Chairs...Part Deux

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 20:04:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

As many of you know I love a pair of wing chairs! Well recently my friends Nora, her husband Mike and their very energetic dog Rascal asked if I would like to come over to their home and see their set of chairs...my response was "Of course!"

Upon entering their great room I was ecstatic to see two beautiful and large wing chairs! The exaggerated arms and wings give these chairs a "wow" factor when entering the room. They frame the great view of the back garden outside the arched windows and give the room a since of symmetry. This must a be a great place to sit for an afternoon cup of tea or to read a good book! I was told that they can not move the chairs to another part of the house because they simply do not fit through any of the doorways, except for the front door!

I honestly tried to get a picture of Rascal sitting on one of the chairs...however he was just to excited to be showing off "his" chairs to hold still for the camera. Nora claims the chairs are for the King and Queen of the house; however I have a feeling Rascal in-bodies both!

Please have a look at the pictures. If you have any comments or question please leave them below or email me directly at anothur.decor@gmail.com.

Good Day!
--D Charles

One of a Kind...My Fab 5!

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 01:46:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

There is nothing like finding that perfect gift or home decor piece. That is exactly what I found at the One of a Kind Show and Sale http://oneofakindshowchicago.com. This is the event's 11th year in Chicago and has more than 600 artisans from around the country selling their crafty goodies. This was an amazing demonstration of fine art, sculpture, jewelry, food and furniture. With every turn I discovered beautiful and unique pieces... Feast your eyes on some goodies below.

I encourage you to visit their websites...You will be inspired and impressed! Plus, you may purchase their goods for this upcoming Holiday Season!!!

The Elizabeth Element
Eco-Friendly Tree Stump Furniture & Decor
TheElizabethElement.etsy.com
Elizabeth brings function and art to stumps!

J. Diemer Artisanry
Handmade Bird Cages
http://www.handmadebirdcages.com
J. Diemer creates the most beautiful, jewelry quality birdcages I've ever seen!

Boutique Home, LLC
European Inspired Couture Bedding & Drapery
http://www.boutiquehomeonline.com
Shari and Alberto bring couture European style and pop to the home!

Sublime Rockers-Kevin DesPlanques
Wood Sculptor & Furniture Designer
http://sublimerockers.com
Kevin creates the most unique and smooth rocking chairs I have ever sat in!

Michael Szabo
Water Works
http://szaboworks.com
Michael creates incredible water work sculptures that are absolutely fascinating and elegant!

Good Day! ...Happy Holidays :-)
--D Charles

One of a Kind...Sounds Interesting

noreply@blogger.com (D. Charles) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 03:29:00 +0000

Oh Hello!

So I keep hearing all the buzz about the One of a Kind Show and Sale at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago http://oneofakindshowchicago.com. I've been told I must go see this! Without much twisting of my arm i'm planning to go to the One of Kind show Saturday. I'll report back and let you know all about it!

Good day
--D Charles