1. French Artistry
Generations of artisans have handed down the knowledge for making these dishes, from the site the clay is chosen, to the stoneware’s glass-like finish. Like real flowers, each piece is slightly different and brings a note of handcrafted elegance to your table. The Plume series from Jars Ceramics in white, aqua or indigo can be found in better china stores online, and cost approximately: Dinner Plate, $45; Soup Plate, $37; Dessert Plate, $35; Serving Bowl, $74. If subtlety is not your thing, check out the website for other fine designs in breathtaking brights, sultry earth tones, and soothing charcoals. Available online at Bloomingdale’s and Didriks. www.jarsceramistes.com
2. Stone Walled
Consider Venetian Plaster next time you are ready to paint. Composed of 99 percent natural lime, it is one of the most natural products you can put on your walls. Lime is the only stone that can be ground and liquefied, and after it’s applied, return to stone. No off-gassing occurs, and the high-alkaline content acts as a natural anti-mold agent. An advantage in warmer climates, it also absorbs humidity and helps keep rooms cool. Venetian Plaster comes in any color and can be shiny, flat, rough, or smooth. If you live in the New York area, contact the artisans of The Alpha Workshops, who excel in this process. This not-for-profit organization, known in the design world, trains and employs people living with HIV/AIDS in the decorative arts. www.alphaworkshops.org (Photo credit: Andrew French)
3. Set a Serene Scene
Dinah Coops has created a line of hand-screened minimalist-style napkins with natural forms and abstract lines. Only water-based inks are used on un-dyed, 100 percent linen which is naturally anti-bacterial, non-allergenic, and antistatic. $32, www.dinahcoops.com
4. Fire Showcase
Light up in style with Q, an indoor/outdoor portable fireplace, fueled by alcohol made from sugarcane, potatoes, bananas, beetroot, and cereals. Ecosmart Fireplaces require no installation or ventilation, as the denatured alcohol burns clean. Check out their website to see a huge array of designs, some which can be integrated into new construction. www.ecosmartfire.com