“Sanctuary is luxurious, while still feeling clean and fresh and somehow enchanted,” said its designer, Tracey Gibson. Hooker Furniture

When the Sanctuary Collection was first created 10 years ago, it was with the mission to help women create a place of refuge and romance, serenity and style — yes, a sanctuary — within their homes. 

Now the groundbreaking collection is being expanded with nearly 90 new pieces that “allow you to put together your own look and give it your own personal style to tell your story,” said designer & creator Tracey Gibson.

The Sanctuary Collection has a signature style to it: ‘It has love, heart and passion that exudes a feminine ethereal feeling,’ said designer Tracey Gibson, pictured with the Anastasie Bed with a creamy white finish accented with champagne and silver tipping and a removable carving on the headboard.

Sanctuary accents, like this curvy chest with a 3-dimensional floral motif, are exotic and elegant and meant to give the collection a well-traveled feeling. Hooker Furniture

“Sanctuary is like a woman’s little black dress that she can dress up or down with accessories and make it her own,” Gibson said. “It’s the finishes and textures, details and materials you chose that allow you to tell your own story.”

Sanctuary pieces, like this console table with a silver finish and undertones of champagne, are glamorous, romantic and classic with a touch of bling. Hooker Furniture

The bedroom, dining room, living room and home office furniture pieces are grouped into three unique personas, each of which are designed to embody the influences of a well-traveled woman who curates a collection of home furnishings in travels across the globe.

The Anastasie bed offers a softer, romantic look, with historical reproduction bones, giving it a European cottage feel. Hooker Furniture

The pieces are opulent, yet approachable; vintage, yet modern; timeless yet fresh. “Sanctuary gives you a casual lifestyle that’s still glamorous through a magical bit of distressed finishes,” said Gibson.

Historical European reproduction-based pieces are intermingled throughout Sanctuary, with design details like tabletops with intricate quatrefoil veneer patterns, carved chairs with acanthus leaf and scrolled fretwork detailing. Hooker Furniture.

Gibson notes that Sanctuary most emulates Parisian interiors. “Parisian interiors have always stood the test of time by merging Old World elegance, vintage details and modern pieces,” she said. “Mixing classical with modern creates a timeless look when curated over years with the patina of a little wear and tear. The charm creates a look that doesn’t feel too perfect and exudes casualized glamour.”

The Diamant Canopy Bed is perhaps the most iconic of all the new Sanctuary pieces, with a diamond motif in a champagne finish against a reverse hand-painted glass headboard and footboard resembling marble.

Gibson’s “muse” in designing Sanctuary, a collection that celebrates feminine drama, was the late Hollywood starlet Audrey Hepburn, the epitome of approachable refinement and class.

Fittingly, one of Hepburn’s most famous sayings was:

“Beauty is being the best possible version of yourself, inside and out.” 

Designer Tracey Gibson looked to Audrey Hepburn, the ultimate wearer of  ‘little black dresses,’ as her ‘muse’ for Sanctuary. Like the collection, Hepburn was a woman who epitomized luxury and refinement that was approachable, with a touch of mischief, joy and good humor.

A party-friendly table like the Urban Elevation dining table is the perfect gathering place for family and friends. Hooker Furniture

The key to creating a stylish surprise for mom? A mix of tradition and the unexpected. Hooker Furniture.

Dad and kids, it’s time to turn the table on mom! Surprise her with a stylish party during the month we celebrate Mother’s Day. Make the party all about her and the things she loves most– family, fun and a home filled with beautiful style.

A stylish sign of the times allows you to personalize your note of appreciation for Mom.

For a fast-fix centerpiece filled with charm, go old school with a chalkboard greeting written by kids and paired with fragrant flowers in a beautiful vase.

A party-friendly table like the Urban Elevation dining table is the perfect gathering place for family and friends. Hooker Furniture

With sturdy metal legs and a slightly distressed top, the Urban Elevation Dining Table is a modern rustic look that’s both kid-friendly and party-friendly. And it comes with two 22-inch leaves, do it’ll seat up to 10 guests. 

Get kids involved with top-secret DIY projects they can make in their rooms in the days leading up to the party.

With craft supplies and some creativity, kids can channel their inner decorator and give the party a true from-the-heart look. Handmade cards and bunting crafted with twine, clothespins and party keepsakes add a festive touch and are something mom is sure to adore. So are “I love Mom” signs glued to popsicle sticks which can be given to each guests to hide behind when Mom comes into the room. 

Nesting tables are practically perfect for parties of any size. Hooker Furniture.

The organic shares of the Melange Nesting Tables are a nod to Mother Nature while providing a flexible amount of space for presents, cards and party snacks. 

A sweet treat for grown-ups and kids alike.

Cupcakes evoke memories of childhood fun and are one of the trendiest desserts on the planet. No need to cook when all it takes is a quick trip to the bakery to find yummy cupcakes like these. Let kinds pretty up their presentation be placing them in a festive basket or tray that’s accompanied by a hand-written note. Fast, Easy. Tasty. 

Want to also pair your party with a gift that’s designed with a surprise in mind?

It’s what’s behind this mirror that Mom will find most intriguing. Hooker Furniture.

More than a pretty face, the Adonia Floor Mirror is also a stylish take on home security. 

The Adonia Floor Mirror has a hidden surprise. Hooker Furniture.

The mirror opens to reveal a black felt-lined interior with several open storage compartments for jewelry, rows of necklace hooks, removable jewelry bags and ring slots which provide secret storage for mom’s most treasured things. 

An unexpected way for Mom to kick back and relax. Hooker Furniture.

Who says recliners are just for the guys? The Savion Grandier is every stylish (yet tired) mom’s dream-come-true because it’s a chic recliner in disguise. 

With the touch of a discreetly placed button, this butter-soft leather chair transforms into a power recliner with a power headreast that’ll help Mom chill out like nobody’s business.

What mom wouldn’t love a sweet gesture like this?

Cap off the party with a bouquet of simple flowers, presented with youthful style and enthusiasm. That should seal the deal and keep Mom smiling for days to come. 

Give your gathering some hip-haute style with decor like this. Photos: Hooker Furniture.

This Easter and beyond, embrace the tradition of the day in a new way with an elegant, yet soft modern approach to brunch, lunch or dinner. Decor that mixes simple, clean lines with a variety of materials and textures, along with inviting, warm finishes is how to create hip-haute, soft modern style. That’s especially true when the day culminates with a cleverly conceived dessert no one expects!

With two 20-inch leaves that extend its width to 84 inches, this Scandinavian-inspired table can seat a crowd. Hooker Furniture.

Beefy X-shaped cross beams form the sturdy pedestal base of the Studio 7H Geo Trestle Dining Table, while also adding architectural interest.

The modern way to create a forest-fresh feel: this solid Acacia wood live edge table with glass legs. Hooker Furniture.

Aptly named, the Organic Dining Table features a solid acacia wood top with a live edge, so each table is unique in shape. Tempered glass legs create the illusion from afar that both table and dining bench  are floating in air.

With its 44-inch diameter, this table is sized right for small spaces or intimate gatherings. Hooker Furniture.

A buffet like the Reverie is the secret weapon of every savvy host/hostess. Hooker Furniture.

A blend of old world and modern design elements, the Reverie Buffet is defined by crisp, clean lines and a trendy platinum gray, lightly distressed finish. It also provides extra serving space and extra storage for dining essentials. Shelves are adjustable, drawers have drop-in felt liners, and there’s even a silverware tray in the middle drawer.

Here’s how to keep your celebration moving. Hooker Furniture.

Despite its name, the Ciao Bella is more than a bar cart. This aged bronze metal cart with wood shelves is like a butler on wheels. It’s perfect for getting food to the table fast, and then clearing the table with ease after mealtime.

Why bunny hop when you can bunny haute?

A trendy muted blue palette transforms this bunny and eggs from kitsch to contemporary cool, especially in these glass-sleek and subtle, matte finishes. 

A simple bloom adds flower power to any table.

Solid white dinnerware, with a tone-on-tone basket weave rim, creates an elegant foundation for the table. A fresh tulip, tied to a simple striped napkin with a pastel ribbon, adds a pretty touch from nature.

Every girl needs an Easter hat.

Here’s a quick DIY project that’ll make every little girl you know feel like the star of the Easter parade. Tuck oversized silk (or paper) flowers into the ribboned brim of simple straw hats. This is a contemporary look that’s as pretty as a petal. 

Make this the sweetest treat of the day. James Ransom, copyright 2017.

After the meal and obligatory egg hunt are done, treat kids and grown-ups to an unexpected (but very cool) dessert that’s trendy, tasty and very easy to make.

Molly Yeh’s Chocolate Tacos

from

Ice Cream & Friends: 60 Recipes & Rif

The Editors of FOOD52

Makes 6 to 8

With these Chocolate Tacos, it’s your taco party so you can do what you want: Soft, chewy shells (that you shape by hanging over books, but not this one!) are spooned full with whatever ice cream flavor you desire and topped with Picasso-like splatters of chocolate and crushed nuts—or sprinkles or brittle or gummy bears. You get the idea.

The shells are a love child of eggy crêpes and soft flour tortillas—and the secret star of this taco. You can make the shells a day in advance and have guests fill their own, or you can make the tacos entirely in advance and keep them in the freezer.

Taco Shells

2⁄3 cup (85g) all-purpose flour

1⁄2 cup (100g) sugar

1⁄8 teaspoon kosher salt

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for the skillet

1⁄4 cup (60ml) milk

1⁄4 teaspoon almond extract

1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 egg whites

Fillings and Toppings

10 ounces (285g) dark chocolate chips

3 tablespoons coconut oil

4 to 6 cups (950ml to 1.4L) ice cream, softened (store-bought Choco Tacos have fudge-swirled vanilla ice cream)

1⁄2 cup (60g) crushed nuts, plus any other desired toppings

1. To make the taco shells, cover 6 to 8 hardcover books that are 1 inch (2.5cm) thick with parchment paper. Stand them up vertically, spine up. These are your shell molds.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, milk, 1 tablespoon water, almond extract, and vanilla, followed by the egg whites. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

3. Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Butter the skillet and then spoon in 2 1⁄2 tablespoons of batter. Spread the batter gently with the back of a spoon or offset spatula so you have an even circle. Cook until slightly brown on the bottom, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip and cook until slightly brown on the second side, 1 to 2 minutes more. With a spatula, gently fold the shell over the spine of the book and let cool. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding butter to the pan as needed.

4. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each. Let cool slightly.

5. Fill the taco shells with ice cream, drizzle with as much chocolate as you wish, top with the nuts, and enjoy! You can freeze uncovered for a few minutes to let the chocolate harden; the tacos will also keep, wrapped in plastic wrap, in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reprinted with permission from Food52 Ice Cream & Friends: 60 Recipes & Riffs  by the Editors of Food52, copyright © 2017. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC.

Here’s how to lighten up your home and life with style and nature-inspired decor.

Spring is on our doorstep. Time to break out of that winter rut and make a fresh start, both inside and out. With design’s new take on nature-inspired furniture, your home can blossom with style in light, airy ways that’ll also inspire you to step outside and enjoy all that Spring brings once the decorating is done.

Where to start? Draw back the curtains and let in some natural light and fresh air. Then go room to room to see which spots are overdue for a style refresh.

Here’s how to make every day sunny. Photo: Hooker Furniture

The bold sunburst shape of the Sunray Mirror  is accentuated with German silver foil, which makes the mirror gleam while reflecting soft beams of light around the room.

Lighten up your home with a sparkly, blingy mirror. Hooker Furniture

Shape up in a light and airy way. Photo: Hooker Furniture.

With a laser-cut metal base that resembles a trellis, The Angeline Console  puts a modern spin on an important element of garden design—architecture.

Spring is time for sky-high style. Photo: Hooker Furniture.

The softly-curved shape of the Beaumont Bachelor’s Chest romances the room as its nature-inspired Skylark Blue finish takes flight with fashion finesse. 

For the authenticity of nature, try simple and uncomplicated. Photo: Hooker Furniture.

The clean lines and weathered gray finish of the Jude nesting tables  infuse interiors with a very organic sense, especially when clustered together in the center of the room.

Here’s where to come home to roost in style. Photo: Hooker Furniture

The Affinity upholstered bed  has a streamlined silhouette that lets light flow in and around it, plus a greige and antique white sand-blasted finish that adds nature-inspired texture.

Remember to lighten up in other ways, too. Plant flowers or stroll through a nearby park. Fresh air, fragrant flowers and the sun’s glistening reflection on water are among Mother Nature’s most sure-fire cures for stress.

Bark, run, repeat.

When someone asks, “Who let the dogs out?” let the answer be…”I did!” Playing fetch, rolling in the grass or taking a leisurely walk will benefit you and your furry best friend.

Drink a cup for better health.

Every day, over 50% of Americans drink tea, which can lower cholesterol and the risk of stroke. So why not sip yours beneath a shady tree with a snack in your hand and friends by your side?

Flower power works wonders.

This sign says it all.

Now’s the time to embrace the season of renewal and fresh starts that is upon us. Lighten up. Have a little Spring fling. You and your home deserve it. 

Sit close and see what develops. Photo: Sam Moore Furniture Houlihan Settee.

True romantics are all about getting to the heart of the matter. But traffic jams, pricey movie tickets and long restaurant waits ca take their toll on even the most ardent Cupid. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’re ready to woo in a way that’s new, show your home some love and make it the scene for date night every night.

After all, home is where the heart is!

Cozy up in style on the Randleman Sectional from Bradington-Young.

Make relaxing together at day’s end an irresistible thing to do with Randleman, a luxe leather sectional with plush Spring Down cushions. 

How to make romantic dinners for two practically perfect. Hooker Furniture

Take date night romance to new heights with the Boheme Ascension Dining Table that can be adjusted from 30-inch dining height to 36-inch counter height. And its smaller size makes this table ideal for everything from cozy candle-lit dinners to leisurely breakfasts spent sipping coffee and watching the sun rise. 

For lasting romance, you need the write stuff. Hooker Furniture.

At first glance you’d never guess that the chic  Modern Romance Writing Desk is a romance command center. And yet, it is. With a drop-front center drawer that houses a keyboard, this kidney-shaped desk makes it easy to dash off a quick text or email. Or reach inside its two top drawers for a removable pencil tray and writing insert, then go old school and treat your sweetie to a handwritten note that’ll be cherished for years to come. 

Love may be a simple DIY project away.

To add a modern graphic punch, stain or paint unfinished wood letters (found at craft stores). Then glue them together to form an endearing word or message.

Want to heat things up in style? Hooker Furniture.

 In addition to keeping media room equipment neatly stored on adjustable shelves behind each door and in an open triple section component area, the Big Sur entertainment console delivers an unexpected, romantic perk—an electric fireplace insert with LED flames that flicker like the real thing and deliver warmth from a a built-in fan-forced heater to warm up your date night. 

This elegant upholstered bed is made for sleep, stylish repose and more. Hooker Furniture.

Adorned with dramatic details like button-tufting and a crown motif headboard, Reverie romances the bed -and everyone nestled in it.

Chocolate may be the tastiest aphrodisiac of them all. Photography copyright 2015 by Erin Kunkel.

In cooking, as in life, some of the most fabulous pairings occur when opposites attract. In this easy-to-make scrumptous recipe, sweet caramel and spicy ground black pepper come together with the help of decadent Dutch chocolate.

Salt and Pepper Caramel Brownies

from The New Sugar and Spice by Samantha Seneviratne

They say that freshly ground black pepper wakes up the salivary glands and enhances our ability to taste food. Who wouldn’t want to taste their brownies more completely? Black pepper also adds an unexpected smoky, floral note to the classic treat, making them complex and irresistible. The bittersweet, salty caramel is indulgent but heavenly.

Makes 16 large or 25 small brownies

Brownies:

1/2  cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled, plus more for greasing the pan

3/4 cup (3 3/8  ounces) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (2 1/4 ounces) Dutch-process cocoa powder

2 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

Page 4—Date night every night at home blog text

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 cup packed dark brown sugar

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 large eggs

Caramel:

2 tablespoons water

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon fleur de sel or kosher salt, for sprinkling

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Butter an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Butter the parchment.

To prepare the brownies, whisk together the flour, cocoa, pepper, and baking powder in a medium bowl. In a large bowl,  whisk together the brown sugar, vanilla, salt, and eggs. Add the melted butter to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth. Fold in the flour mixture. (You could throw in some chocolate chips at this point, but that might just be gilding the lily.)

Pour into the prepared pan and bake until just set, 2 4 to 26 minutes. As soon as a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the center pulls out very moist crumbs, not runny batter, pull the brownies out of the oven. Set on a rack to cool.

To prepare the caramel, add the water to a medium saucepan. Add granulated sugar to the center of the saucepan, making sure the sugar is evenly moistened. Cook over medium heat, without stirring (although you can gently swirl the pan, if necessary), until the caramel is medium amber in color, 5 to 6 minutes. Slowly add the cream, whisking constantly; be very careful, since it will bubble up and spatter. Add the butter and cook, whisking constantly, until the caramel is smooth and slightly thickened, 2 to 3 minutes more.  Whisk in the vanilla. Pour the caramel over the brownies and spread evenly.

Cool in the pan, on a rack, for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with fleur de sel and refrigerate until the caramel is set, about 1 hour.

To serve, cut around the edge of the brownies to loosen them from the pan, then use the parchment to lift the brownies out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Use a long sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares. (Little pieces go a long way!) Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reprinted with permission from The New Sugar and Spice, by Samantha Seneviratne, copyright © 2015, published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House.

A luscious mix of red, pink and orange, Living Coral looks modern, upbeat and fearless. Photo: Sam Moore Furniture and Pantone.

Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2019, “Living Coral,” reflects our desire for vitality, community and care for the natural world we depend on.

Modern, upbeat and fearless, coral is a classic that’s been creating a hospitable mood since the Renaissance. So if you love it, use it lavishly to liven your home!

An elegant pearl gray settee gets a youthful lift with accent pillows in a modern coral-and-white floral print. Enhance the impact with a few of Nature’s many coral-hued flowers. Done! Photos: Sam Moore, birchlane.com

Coral is no shrinking violet, but it’s surprisingly easy to use. Try these tips:

1. Try coral as a wake up call to a cool neutral color scheme, as with the pearl gray settee above. Off white and light woods also welcome coral’s warmth. Use coral in at least three places around the the room to lead the eye and create balance.
   

   Boho-elegant or nautically nice, coral is a natural with creamy yellow as on the Sariah Sofa, and loves cool complements from ice blue to navy and all points in between. Photos: Sam Moore and wayfair.com.

   2. Coral and royal blue are gorgeous complements. They’re rich and regal with dark wood and gold accents, or crisp and exciting with gray, silver or bright white. 

   

   In the Milsey Tufted Ottoman, watercolor softens coral’s punch so it plays nicely with lighthearted blues, greens and golds. A round ottoman like this earns focal point status with an eye-catching print. Sam Moore Furniture.

   3. Coral plus vivid aqua or teal and yellow-green bring home the brilliant allure of the ocean for a beachy vibe.

Coral pink, turquoise and other summery hues get an elegant, go-anywhere look in classic paisley on the Kelsey Wing Chair from Sam Moore.

Rich coral red has been a splendid favorite since the Renaissance. No surprise, as shown in this Saffron Crackle Chest, it is flattering, energizing and graciously warm. Photo: Hooker Furniture.

Coral goes cool in timeless styles, modern prints and metallic neutrals that show off natural coral’s fascinating shapes in this Coral Console. Photo: Hooker Furniture

Living Coral, Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2019, is a vibrant hue that manages to be both modern and classic, and expresses styles from coastal to chic to cosmopolitan and even an Asian flair. Are you using living coral in your home? Let us know in the comments. 

Rich coral has been a splendid favorite since the Renaissance. No surprise, as it’s flattering, energizing and graciously warm. Photo: onekingslane.com.

Retreat in comfort at home with a crackling fire, cup of tea and a comfy chair. Bradington-Young Furniture.

It’s a tough world out there. But at home, peace, serenity and comfort await through decorating, furnishings, cooking and relaxing with family and friends.

Want to make your home a sanctuary that welcomes everyone (including you!) with a warm, welcome hug? Here’s how.

Sit down and snuggle up with the Chester Sofa. Hooker Furniture.

An updated take on an iconic British design dating back to the 1800s, the Chester sofa is cozy, comfy and spacious with deep, plush seat cushions made for curling up with a soft blanket throw to tv binge watch or read a book by the fire. Classic yet contemporary, this beautiful Chesterfield sofa features a classic rolled-back frame with button tufting and is upholstered in a trendy mid-tone blue hue that’s warm, inviting and colorful.

Create a yen for zen in unexpected ways. Hooker Furniture.

With decorative hand-carved mango wood doors in the shape of a mandala (an ancient, universal spiritual symbol for serenity and the wholeness found within the circle of life), this entertainment console furniture is as much art to be admired and contemplated as it is practical storage for tv and stereo components.

Make time to talk and listen. Bradington-Young Furniture.

The Gallin, Kirby swivel tub  and Kirby stationery chairs mix classic and contemporary style with comfort and ease. And by placing these luxe leather chairs in a circle facing one another, they form an inviting place to gather and gab with friends over coffee or cocktails.

Work it out with style. Hooker Furniture

For the 23% of Americans who now work from home at least part of the time, a home office that’s not only functional but fashionable, too, can make going to the office (even if the daily commute is now 30 seconds) something to look forward to. Crafted of soft white oak veneer with eglomise mirrored accents, the Rustic Glam trestle desk, credenza and bookcase  are mirrored furniture pieces that transform conventional office essentials into chic focal points.

Put into practice the adage” “A place for everything, and everything in its place.” Hooker Furniture.

Studies show that clutter and messiness at home contribute to stress.  With its antique mirrored, pearl essence finish, the Sanctuary ten drawer dresser  is a pretty, practical problem-solver. With 10 spacious drawers, you can store more and stress less.

Dine like you mean it. Hooker Furniture.

Restore the tradition of breaking bread together. Whether you cook like a Food Network star chef or excel at take-out, when family and friend gather around the spacious  Beaumont rectangular dining table, the time together will feel special.

Pick a winter winner, chicken dinner (and with bacon!) John Lee

Fried chicken evokes fond childhood memories for many people, including me.  This comfort food brings to mind Sunday lunch at my grandmother’s home where our big family of aunts, uncles and cousins would race after church to feast on her crispy fried chicken with gravy, homemade rolls and pie topped with sky-high meringue.  No matter how many of us were at the table, somehow there was more than enough to eat. And there was certainly more than enough love to go around, too.

This recipe is tasty, easy to make and delivers on three popular trends—home cooking, bacon and the resurgence in comfort foods like fried chicken and gravy. Try it. You’ll like it. A lot.

Buttermilk-Soaked, Bacon-Fried Chicken in Gravy

from

“Fried Chicken” by Rebecca Lang

Serves 4

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

2 tablespoons hot sauce, such as Tabasco

1 chicken (about 2 pounds, 8 ounces), cut into 4 pieces

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

12 ounces bacon, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces

Vegetable oil, for frying

Gravy:

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon dry sherry

1/2 teaspoon salt

To make the marinade, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Pour into a large zip-top bag and add the chicken. Seal the bag, rub to coat the meat, and refrigerate for 6 hours.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper.

In a large heavy skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel, reserving drippings in the skillet.

Reprinted with permission from “Fried Chicken” by Rebecca Lang copyright © 2015, published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Photographs copyright © 2015 by John Lee.

Make home a refuge for you and yours.

Blending varying shades of white in a room creates depth and dimension. The Modern Romance Console features a textured, lacquered white linen finish with champagne accents. Hooker Furniture

In January, nature cloaks itself in a stunning monochromatic color scheme of winter white.

In the colder months of the year, nature cloaks herself in winter white and the results are breathtaking. From the plains to the mountains to the coast, the absence of color around us during winter illustrates the serene beauty of a monochromatic look. Here’s how to incorporate nature’s subtlest — yet most sophisticated — palette into your home and furniture. 

An eggnog cocktail is a signature drink creation in creamy tones.

Before looking outside for inspiration, kick off the new year with a signature homemade drink creation in these creamy tones. This Southern Living Recipe from country legend Alan Jackson can be made with or without whiskey. Try rimming the glasses in graham cracker or gingerbread crumbs for an extra-special touch. 

A decorative chest like the Amani combines a winter white palette with soft wood tones and natural stone. Hooker Furniture.

A winter white palette doesn’t have to be boring. It can include soft wood tones, natural stone and muted finishes. A decorative furniture chest like the Amani is a great place to start if you’re thinking of trying this elegant design direction.

In a winter white color scheme, the Anders Chair from Sam Moore captures the appeal of the hygge lifestyle. Photo: Sam Moore Furniture.

Whoever said, “White is boring” surely hasn’t seen the Anders Chair. Enrobed in a plush, shearling-like cover, it’s the epitome of easygoing elegance and the perfect choice for a winter white color scheme. 

Benjamin Moore is promoting an understated color palette of wall colors with its 2019 Color of the Year, Metropolitan.

Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year, Metropolitan, is a soft grey that works perfectly with the elegant sophistication of winter whites. As Benjamin Moore puts it, “The calibrated silence of layered grays helps a modern home find its soft side.”

Work is more appealing in a calming, organized workspace like this. Hooker Furniture.

Once the holidays are over, getting back to work seems more appealing in a calming workspace like this one.  Surely, a soft, clean home office will make it easier to stay organized in 2019.

The Miramar bedroom takes a world view of design and soothes in a winter white palette. Hooker Furniture

Use texture to add visual interest to your monochromatic color palette. A chunky throw blanket, extra-plush rug and stone accent wall give this space dimension while maintaining its minimalist color story.

Choosing cream or white leather for your sofa or sectional gives the added beauty of being able to accessorize them any way you like– now and in the future. Bradington-Young.

To get the full effect of the understated winter white palette, start with the largest furnishings in the room — your sofa or sectional. 

The timeworn finish of the Arabella dining room is created with a white finish over maple veneers with a crackle revealing a champagne shimmer beneath. Hooker Furniture.

It’s easy to create a dreamy dining room furniture area with a table, chairs and buffet in a timeless creamy white, such as this one from Arabella.

No matter what room you’re updating in the new year, you can’t go wrong by looking to nature for guidance. Even in the coldest of winters, there’s inspiration to be found. This year, when the weather has you indoors looking outward, consider bringing some of the beauty of winter’s whites into your home decor. 

Tip: Simple touches create a festive mood.

’Tis the season to make merry and bright with family and friends. Make your holiday gathering one they’ll remember long after the last eggnog toast with these elegant entertaining tips. A mix of pretty, practical and positively wow, each will help you impress -without duress- because they’re also easy to do.

Tip: Glam is good. Hooker Furniture.

The subtle champagne shimmer finish of the Arabella Round Dining Table and Arabella side dining chairs sparkles with a rich luster that reflects the festive tone of the season we’re celebrating. Slender, softly curved legs create an aura of romance as fretwork-carved chair backs, with Arabesque motifs, add architectural interest.

This lovely tablescape celebrates nature with fragrant mini wreaths made of snipped rosemary and a centerpiece of natural greenery.

Infusing interiors with layers of scent is a popular trend and is so easy to do during the holidays. Just take a quick stroll outdoors. This lovely tablescape features a mini wreath made with snipped rosemary, and a nature-inspired centerpiece fashioned from fresh evergreen branches, pomegranates and colorful glass pine cones.

Tip: Couture comfort = happy, stylin’ guests. Settee by Sam Moore.

An on-trend, versatile seating option, the Houlihan settee works the room in style. As a standalone in a small space, it create a fashion focal point. By flanking the fireplace with a pair of settees, you’ll create a cozy conversation zone. Or invite this plush settee to the table as an elegant spot for guests to sit and linger longer after the meal ends.

Tip: Layer in double-duty decor. Hooker Furniture.

The narrow footprint and double shelf design of the Melange Rivata Hall Console will make it a host’s best friend. In the living room, it can serve as a mini bar for cocktails by the Christmas tree. Dress up a narrow passageway by displaying holiday decor on this skinny mini table or place it in your foyer to give guests a place to stash bags and phones when they come through the door.

Tip: Tiny tables pay off big. Hooker Furniture

With portable nesting tables like these, guests can better relax. They’ll have a place to perch drinks and snacks—no more juggling with both hands all night long. And as a design bonus, the dark painted glass tops and silver metal bases of these space-saver tables are so chic they’re bound to make heads turn.

Tip: Comfy seating is a guest’s dream come true. Hooker Furniture.

Family and friends will enjoy your gathering and stay longer with a comfy place to sit and relax. Meticulously hand-crafted in luxe leather with deep plush cushions and arms, the Sydney Club Chair fits the bill and is destined to be the most popular seat in the room.

Tip: Limit trips to and from the kitchen. Hooker Furniture.

Although you’re the host, you are not a maid and should enjoy the party, too. Sized right for holding extra food or dining essentials, or to work as a self-serve salad station or dessert bar, the Miramar Aventura Maricopa Buffet will keep you more in the party scene than away from it. There’s spacious storage below, too, including a removable silverware tray and felt liner.

Tip: Send guests on their way with a sweet treat. Ed Anderson.

Offer the tastebuds of your guests a decadent end to the night. This recipe for semisweet hot fudge sauce is easy to make ahead and is wonderful served over ice cream, brownies or cake.  Make an extra batch and treat guests to a jar wrapped in festive paper and ribbon as a take-home party favor. They’ll remember your gathering as extra-sweet and special.

SEMISWEET HOT FUDGE

from

The Perfect Scoop Revised and Updated by David Lebovitz

Makes 3 cups (750ml) 

This sauce is very rich and very thick. If you prefer your hot fudge on the sweeter side, this is the one for you. 

1 cup (250ml) heavy cream 

6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces 

2 tablespoons light corn syrup 

2⁄3 cup (130g) sugar 

8 ounces (230g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped 

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 

1. Heat the cream, butter, corn syrup, and sugar in a large saucepan until the mixture begins to boil. Boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, making sure it doesn’t boil over. 

2. Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla. Serve warm. 

STORAGE: This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Rewarm it gently in a microwave or by stirring in a saucepan over very low heat.

Reprinted with permission from The Perfect Scoop Revised and Updated , copyright © 2018 by David Lebovitz. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. Photograph copyright © 2018 by Ed Anderson.