MBDG: Insights

Perhaps the most dangerous Market find this year is a certain chocolate chip cookie. Our very last stop last week took us to a vendor we have enjoyed working with for many years. Not only does this furniture maker create beautiful pieces, but the people that we work with are truly a delight. So, when we jumped on their plate of cookies and devoured every last one, it was with great generosity that our friend Elsie offered up the remaining cookies from the bag. When we saw the bag we were surprised to see that these cookies can be obtained at our very own Harris Teeter, here in Meadowmont. HT Trader brand chocolate chip and pecan cookies -Yum!

.

Beautiful wood tables made in North Carolina! Minta and I came across wonderful natural wood tables made of solid woods or very thick veneers. The edges can be crafted to follow the grain of the wood for an organic feel, or they can be squared off in a more controlled way. The woods range from reclaimed teak to bubinga and there are several unique chunks of petrified and eroded pieces for use as accent tables. The finishes are natural, waxed, or oiled, allowing the beauty of the wood to speak for itself, and to top it off, the maker is committed to environmental responsibility.

I have a client who is considering combining one of the teak tables with some funky aluminum chairs. I love the combination of materials and I think that the years of science fair projects, family dinners, junk mail piles, and Star Wars battles will only contribute to a more interesting character - for the table and the kids.

.

Minta and I survived another hectic, but, inspiration filled week at “Market” in High Point. We spent a lot of time looking for new lamps for the shop - I think we are addicted! The big thing in lamps this year is…well… it is the ‘big thing’. Huge lamps!

One I particularily love is the crusty Poseidon Lamp. It was inspired by some large pottery pieces found during a deep sea diving expedition, encrusted by barnacles.

.

Minta and I are off to the High Point Furniture Market this week! We are scouting new introductions from some of our favorite upholstery and casegood companies, as well as, looking for fresh finds.

The first day of Market we became enchanted by this gorgeous gilded gold floor lamp. The gold tones are soft and warm with a beautiful layered effect. It will soon be making an appearance in our shop! A table lamp version is also available. I can see this lamp as an unexpected, slightly mischievous touch in either a transitional or contemporary interior, paired with lush textures. Do you dare?

.

Welcome to Minta Bell Design Group Insights. We are excited to share our enthusiasm for all things interior design!

Interior Design is about creating spaces where you live your life. Insights will feature our inspirations, philosophies, new finds, fresh ideas, interesting details, practical advice and probably an ongoing debate about the best chocolate chip cookie in the area. We hear great questions from many of our clients that we would love to share with you. We are passionate about materials and furnishings and aim to highlight the qualities that make them special. We hope you enjoy our blog!

.