Quatrefoil Heaven

I may be a little late to jump on this trend, but I usually just go with what I like, when I like it.  I'm loving quatrefoil these days.  It works in traditional decor, but these days lends itself to more transitional or contemporary spaces.

"QUATREFOIL -  is a type of decorative framework consisting of a symmetrical shape which forms the overall outline of four partially overlapping circles of the same diameter. The word quatrefoil means "four leaves."" ~ wikipedia

These mirrors and pillows were purchased at Urban Retreat by Jennifer Wagner Schmidt of JWS Interiors for a design project.  I especially love how Jennifer incorporated the quatrefoil in the window coverings.  

Quatrefoil can be used anywhere inside and outside a home.  Here are a few of my favorites:

Rachel Halvorson Designs

Elle Decor

Tracey Ayton Photography

Surya Rugs

AM Dolce Vita

Cristi Holcombe

Below are some items that caught my attention in Atlanta.  I wouldn't put all these items in the same room...too matchy and overwhelming.  But, if using one or two pieces mixed in with existing decor, not only will you add a punch of color but a popular design into your space.

The lamp, canisters, mirror, white vase and candleholders have just been ordered and will be arriving in the store soon.  The quatrefoil on the canisters caught my attention right away!

Here are some photos of the warehouse recently merchandised by one of our designers, Jodie Labovitch.  You'll see quatrefoil inspired pillows in the background. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

More from Market...!

Trays, trays, and more trays..... The request from the store was to lookout for some trays for display.  I think I find more than plenty.  Coming to the store soon.

Oh, I had a chance to quickly take a detour and see Adam Richman of Man vs. Food give a presentation on how to make the Best Sandwich in the Country.  It smelled delicious!

The part of Market I always enjoy is taking in the scenery around me.  The vendors come up with most beautiful vignettes that I can't even wrap my head around.  The following are just a few I remembered to pull out my camera to take a snap shot.

My next visit on this trip was a complete Mission Impossible.  It was my last day and I was determined to find the source for this art work...

*photo by Restylesource.com

I searched EVERY art vendor the previous day stopping in asking if the Welcome Home  and Wash Your Hands print belonged to them.  I was getting nowhere quickly...but, I did find ALOT of art that I would have otherwise passed by...more about that later:)  So, it's my last day, I only have two hours left before I have to run to catch my plane and I finally find a very kind lady who directs me up just one floor up and viola!  It was my AAHHAA moment!!   Maybe you had to be there to understand the "needle in the haystack" moment...we're talking about 3 HUGE buildings, 20 floors in some, thousands of vendors...you get the picture:)

Of course, I ordered the Welcome Home, Wash Your Hands, New York, and Hilton Head signs.  I also loved and ordered the look of this Meridians and Parallels print.

Didn't order anything from the photos below, but just wanted you to get a feel of how awesome and unique these prints are.

Completely drawn to these sea creatures.

After I had the feeling of complete satisfaction and grinning from ear to ear, I made an impulse purchase for summer tote bags.  My designers can tell you that there is always some purchase that I make that makes them wonder WHY?  One year it was a small, black iron mouse, and another year it was antlers (before they became a chic accessory).  I keep them wondering:)

So I found these tote bags in a gray and natural Chevron pattern.  At retail they will only be $19!  

This is a small tote big enough for your phone and cash.  Retail $10.

Also coming are insulated cooler bags, weekend duffel bags and trunk organizers.  

There are still more photos but I think I'll save them for another day.  Like I said earlier, I was inspired by sea glass, sea shells, and whales.  This guy is off course and will be migrating to our store soon.  What shall we call him?

Welcome to the Atlanta Market!

Welcome to our Blog!  

2013 is going to be an exciting adventure into the world of blogging.  My hope is to use this site as a way to share my inspiration behind Urban Retreat.  Not only do I visit trade shows for inspiration, but I often look at other design blogs for photos to inspire me to bring a new product to the store.

My most recent inspiration just occurred in Atlanta.  I arrived to the Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market this past Friday evening and stayed until Sunday evening.  This is a short visit which meant a lot of running around on my end.  The weather was a balmy 72 degrees which I think influenced my shopping....sea shells & sea glass caught my attention in every vignette!

My first stop was at Sugarboo Designs.  It's always a spot where I love to slow down and read all the beautiful inspirational artwork.  Here are a few pieces that are coming back to the store with me and a wall full of others which I just loved.

My next stop was shopping for pillows.  I definitely saw a theme of gorgeous pops of color throughout the showrooms.  Here's a preview of some of the pillows coming this spring:

I found a fragrant candle and diffuser line that we will begin to carry in the store called Simpatico.  I especially felt drawn to their beautiful packaging and hobnail glass candles.  

This Petal Collection will be featured in the store just in time for Valentine's Day...bubble bath, scented candles, diffusers and perfume!

Just warning..I'm in a whale, octopus and squid mood lately!  I think I was drawn to Simpatico because of this packaging. LOVE.

More to come tomorrow!