Today, more than at any other time in history, it’s fun to think of ceiling fans as a viable and attractive option for air circulation and lighting. No longer is the ceiling fan regarded as the 48″ design pariah. Recently, ceiling fan manufacturers unveiled their newest designs at the Dallas Market Best of Show. These beauties are sure to lead the category in 2012. Amongst our favorites are…

1. This sexy fan by Minka says classy, sophisticated, modern and sleek. It is hallmarked by an exceptionally quiet motor.

2. Daring and masculine, this fan by Hunter Fan Company has a clean, modern profile.

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3. Fun and eclectic, the Ar Ruthiane by Matthews Fan Co. is efficient with attitude!

4. The sophisticated styling of the Avalon by Ellington Fans makes it an easy addition to any style home.

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5. Last, but certainly not least, on our list of top ceiling fan picks, is the Cumulos by Fanimation. What an unexpected and inspired design! This fixture would be a natural fit in a game room over a pool table. It would, just as naturally, sit over a highly used kitchen island.

An oldie-but-a-goodie when it comes to seating is the ever popular Klismos Chair. Dating back to Ancient Greece, this elegant chair has lasted the test of time due to its clean, classic lines. It is an unforgettable statement piece, especially when placed in any of our clients’ homes.

Above from left to right: Neirman Weeks painted Klismos, Hollywood Klismos, and a Walnut Klismos.

Its original design of a curved top back and long saber legs has been constructed mostly of wood up until the present.

Designers and manufacturers alike have worked tirelessly to ensure that the Klismos will forever be a classic and a suitable addition to any room decor. Hand painted detail applied to the wood is an option as well as eliminating the wood frame and using metal.

Klismos-style chairs by Jonathan Burden in an Elle Decor feature

My personal favorite is to keep the Klismos true to it’s original design by using all wood. My two top picks: Walnut or Mahogany. There are several options for wood. A favorite as of late has been to use rattan. This style brings a bit more texture and dimension to the design.

A Klismos-inspired chair from our own portfolio

Of course any designer will tell you that a piece of furniture is most successful when you pay attention to the details. I like to upholster the seat as well as the curved back with a fabric that is current, fresh and absolutely jaw-dropping. My fabric “du mois” (of the month) just so happens to be an unexpected combination of a textured faux leather like a chocolate crocodile naugahyde or a show-stopping lime snakeskin. I also prefer to accent my Klismos with nailhead trim.

An Elle Decor showhouse featuring Ironies chairs

For a chair that is forever En Vogue, try incorporating a Klismos into your home design. It is ideal for dining, perfect as an accent or simply place it with the intent of having it be a conversation piece. Your friends and family will leave your home and share with their friends just how cutting edge you are! Offered at various price points, there is a perfect Klismos out there for you.

Do you have a Klismos in your home? Share your experience with us in the comments below.

As designers we spend a lot of time researching different products for the home, and we’d be lying if we said we didn’t have favorites. So, we’re introducing a new column on our blog: Hot Picks! Each column will give you some helpful tips for choosing the best products for your own home. Let’s get started!

BATHTUBS

The right bathtub can transform your bathroom from an afterthought to a palace of luxury, not to mention, increase the value of your home. Sure, not everyone needs a home theater and hydrotherapy jets with their bathing experience (see the La Scala Whirlpool), but how about a contemporary freestanding tub? Here’s our rundown of the latest and greatest bathing vessels on the market.

Blu BathWorks freestanding tub

Many of our clients want a freestanding tub, but have little space in their bathrooms. This pick (above) is perfect for them! It’s made from quartzite, which gives it a stone-like feeling, and it comes in a range of colors. Very cool.

Michael S Smith tub for Kallista (via Elle Decor)

This Kallista tub looks like an updated version of the classic clawfoot. It’s made with gel coat construction and has an asymmetry that we love.

Starck X by Philippe Starck for Duravit

We are drooling over this minimalist Philippe Starck tub. This one’s a great pick for homeowners looking to make their tub a focal point.

The Details:
When choosing a tub, you should think about not just the shape and style, but also the materials that will fit best in your own home. Bathtubs are made out of fiberglass, acrylic, plastic, enameled steel, and cast iron. Continue reading for more info on these materials.

Acrylic is a highly durable, low-maintenance material. It heats up and cools down quickly, retains color and luster longer, and costs more than other materials.

Fiberglass tubs are often called Gel Coat because they feature a coating of shiny material on the surface. Gel Coat tubs are lightweight, yet strong, and can retain color with a little work on your end.

Plastic is super flexible and can be molded into any shape. It insulates well and is a lightweight option. Be careful with cleaners though, as this material is not as durable as others.

Enameled Steel is your least expensive option. These tubs are coated with porcelain enamel, but not great insulators and are prone to chipping.

Cast Iron tubs keep water warm longer, but weigh a lot (350 – 500lbs). They are more durable than enameled steel.