The White Sofa Project: Cindy Munn

In case you have missed our previous posts on the white sofa project, here is a quick update.  We have taken one sofa in our retail store and have asked each of the J Banks Designers to style the sofa and surrounding space utilizing pillows, lamps and accessories.  Each designer has the ability to create a space that shows off their “of-the-moment” loves from our retail store as well as how a design client can easily change a space by adding a few new elements.  Enjoy our most recent transformation!

Cindy Munn designed the latest vignette.  Here is what Cindy had to say about her choices:

JB: How would you describe the mood of your vignette?

Cindy: This space has a casual sophistication. It is comfortable yet eclectic with found collectibles.

(This antique oyster planter is AMAZING!)

JB: What can you tell us about your accessory choices?

Cindy: As far as accessories go, I believe that less is more.  I think that one or two really unique pieces will go far.  I love this antique oyster planter.  It is a conversation piece.  I like to mix the old with the new and bring the outdoor elements inside.

JB: What about your color choices?

Cindy: I wanted natural tones and colors.  The natural linen on the chairs and the driftwood finish on the coffee table are nicely contrasted against the blues and are indicative of the sky and water surrounding our area.

JB: What is your favorite item or items in the vignette?

Cindy: My favorite items would have to be the chairs and the rug.  The rug is an over dyed Peshawar made to resemble an antique.  The scale, the fabric and washed linen slipcovers of the chairs really exhibit casual sophistication.

We love Cindy’s comfortably elegant vignette. Keep following our blog to see more designer interpretations and check out our previous white sofa designs by Deb Van Plew and Hannah Fulton.

If you’d like to purchase or receive additional information on any of these featured products, please feel free to stop by or contact our retail store at 843.682.1735.

JB

The White Sofa Project: Hannah Fulton

We took one sofa in our retail store and will have a different designer each week style the surrounding space using pillows, lamps and accessories.  The end result will show how accessories can change the overall feeling of a room.

Hannah Fulton was second to style the space. Here is what she had to say about her selections:

JB: What did you want the mood or feel of the space to be?

Hannah: To me, this space is a cool, comfortable retreat. The fish accessories hint at a location close to the water. I could see someone returning from the beach or lake and settling in comfortably for a cocktail.

(We ADORE the brass box on the cocktail table)

JB: What is your favorite item or items in the vignette and why?

Hannah: I love the rug from KPM.  It’s new but was made to look antique. The shades of blues and the patchwork pattern really ground the vignette and reiterate the ‘fun yet sophisticated’ look.  I always think antique elements and collected treasures add to the character of a room.

JB: What can you tell us about your accessory choices?

Hannah: I used accessories minimally so that there was an uncluttered feel.  If I’m on vacation, I don’t want to be surrounded by things. Clean lines and ‘functional’ accessories like the baskets, clock, book and a box to hide remote control, etc. are key!

JB: Tell us about your color choices.

Hannah: I was inspired by our fabulous Trina Turk pillows in vibrant shades of blue and green. The pillows set the tone  and really make the space pop.

We love the sophisticated but relaxed space that Hannah created. Keep following our blog to see more designer interpretations.

If you’d like to purchase or receive additional information on any of these featured products please feel free to contact our retail store at 843.682.1735.

JB

It’s SUPER Bowl Week!

Most equate the Super Bowl with the big game at the end of football season.  However, at the J Banks Retail store we have ‘super’ bowls throughout the year.  Our ever-changing inventory is host to so many treasures.  In fact, what could be more perfect than incorporating one of our beautiful bowls into your Super Bowl tablescape?  Here are a few bowls we have right now that we felt were particularly ‘super.’

Stunning textured ceramic bowl with metallic gold finish

Stainless Steel Orchid Punch Bowl

Black bowl with gold horse motif and gold interior

Large glass pedestal compote/fruit bowl

Horn and resin bowl with circular starburst pattern

Italian ceramic pasta or salad bowl (plus we have all of the corresponding dinnerware pieces)

Modern ceramic bird with platinum tone finish

French ceramic serving bowl

If you like any of these bowls, come into our retail store at 35 Main Street on Hilton Head Island, SC to view our full inventory.  If you don’t live nearby just give us a call at 843-682-1745.  We will be happy to ship and always offer complimentary gift wrapping.

Now those are some ‘super bowls’ we’re getting excited about!

JB

Janet Perry: Traditional Clubs Get a Fresh New Look

In lieu of total demolition and new construction many clubs are opting to revamp their exciting spaces and modify them with fresh new finishes.  Clubs seem to be doing this for a variety of reasons including:

• Costs – This is obvious.  An interior remodel can cost dramatically less than complete demolition and new construction.
• Time – A remodel takes less time than new construction thus preventing less profit loss for the club in terms of dining and event revenue.
• Identity – A club can keep its same charming architecture but get a crisp new look.
• Wear and Tear – Club furniture and accessories are used far more often and get worn.  These items need to be replaced.
• New Member Appeal – Clubs are continuously trying to attract more members and a new crisp look is appealing to all generations.

I recently had the opportunity to work on the John’s Island West Clubhouse. Here are some before and after pictures of the project.

The original foyer was rectangular and rather dark.  This space was transformed into a rotunda with paned doors for natural light. This also allowed for a straight view through the dining room and beyond to gorgeous views of the top-rated golf course.  I thought the limed wood herringbone patterned floor looked original to the space.

The original members dining room did not showcase the golf view and did not provide flexibility for member events.  We designed the room using lighter furnishings and finishes.  Originally there was a pro shop on the North side of the dining room fireplace.  We opened up the wall and turned this area into a grille room with booth seating.  This created several different dining experiences for the members.

Acoustics are always a concern when designing commercial spaces.  We replaced the previous hard surface ceiling with acoustic panels. This allowed the room to remain large and open while still offering a quieter atmosphere.

The bathroom had become dated and needed a makeover.  Additionally, we made all of the restrooms handicap accessible.

Notice the windows on the right side of the room.  We removed the windows and installed a NanaWall system that opened the entire space as well as provided access to the new covered dining area and terrace. On the terrace, we added glass panels that will block the wind for diners and not obscure the view of the championship golf course.

This project is a great example of how a club renovation can create a fresh, fun space.  We used traditional club features and modernized their function and appearance.  I discovered so many great new materials during this project as well but I will tell you about those another time.

The White Sofa Project: Deb Van Plew

We took one sofa in our retail store and will ask a different designer each week to style the surrounding space using pillows, lamps and accessories.  The end result will show how accessories can change the overall feeling of a room.

Deb Van Plew was the first designer to tackle the project and she did an amazing job!  We asked her a few questions about her selections.

JB: I noticed one of the first things you grabbed when you began styling this space was the large basket that you placed on the cocktail table.  Can you tell us about that choice?

Deb: The basket  is one of my favorite items and influenced my decisions throughout the space.  I used the basket as both my inspiration and color palette.

JB: What emotions or feelings did you want the space to convey?

Deb: I wanted it to feel easy and relaxed … the type of place where you can put your feet up or put a drink on the table and not feel like anything is too precious or fussy.

(We LOVED the rolled blankets used as bolsters!)

JB: Tell us about your lighting choices.

Deb: I wanted levels of lighting that produced a soft room light.  I wanted it to be ‘functional light’ that would be good for reading, etc.

JB: When you designed this vignette, what were your inspirations?

Deb: With this space I really felt inspired by nature. I wanted a rustic organic look.

We loved the cool global chic space Deb created.  Stay tuned for more vignettes coming soon!

JB

Help us name a Spring 2012 J Banks Collection new introduction!

The Mayers Chair

Help us name a Spring 2012 J Banks Collection new introduction!

How would you like your name to be represented on a fabulously stylish piece of J Banks Collection furniture? Imagine editorial press featuring you, only in furniture form!    All you have to do is answer two fun little questions in the comments section below –

What is your favorite J Banks Collection piece and why?

The Details:

We are preparing to launch the Spring 2012 J Banks Collection in just a few months and are heading to the Stanford Furniture factory in Claremont, NC this week.

As we finalize the design and detailing of each piece, we want to invite you to be part of the process.  The winner of our special contest will get an insider’s peek of our new introductions, get to choose their favorite and then to name the piece after themselves!

Entry Info:

Provide your answer to our questions by 5pm on Monday, January 30^th.   On Tuesday, January 31,^st we will randomly select and announce the winner!  Make sure that you are our friend on Facebook or Twitter so that we may contact you.  If not, like or follow us now by clicking on the icon links to the right.  Only one entry per person please.

The J Banks Collection:

The J Banks Collection is a line of chic, transitional upholstery and casegood pieces designed by Joni and manufactured by Stanford Furniture.  Launched during the Spring 2007 High Point Furniture Market, the collection has received numerous editorial features, appearing in publications including VERANDA, Coastal Living, Hamptons Cottages & Gardens and Interior Design – just to name a few!  Joni’s inspiration for the pieces comes from her continuous travel to different regions for J Banks’ interior design projects. Combining distinctive shapes, fashion-forward lacquer finishes and luxurious textures, the furniture line is fit for any vernacular or design style.  By merging over-sized structures with whimsical details and rich, vibrant finishes, the J Banks Collection breaks the mold of conventional furniture design.

Visit Stanford Furniture to view the entire collection.

Anna Sofa and Catherine End Table

Edmond Dining Table and Banquette composed of Wendy, Dana and Bella Dining Chairs

Cubbage Sofa and Jessica End Table (far left)

Deb Chair and Mary Jane Demi Lune

Diane Sofa

Deb Wing Chair and Amy Ottoman

Darcie Chair and Catherine End Table

Wilkins Banquette and Edmond Dining Table

Slice Chair

Aaron Console and Natalie Stool

Kristin Bed and Lemieux Stool

Van Plew Swivel Chair

Again, you can view the entire collection on the Stanford Furniture website.

Good Luck!

JB

Market Update : January 2012 Americasmart, Atlanta, GA

Several members of our team attended the Americasmart in Atlanta, GA last week.  Anna Ruby, Kelly Caron and Hannah Fulton took the time to share some of their favorite finds at market:

Anna:  Repurposing at its best! These throw pillows made of vintage Hermes scarves add the instant chic factor to any decor.

Kelly: I fell in love with the Greek key serveware by The Mane Lion.  This beautiful colorful collection of Italian ceramic tabletop gets me really excited about Spring and Summer coming up!  And I LOVE  LOVE LOVE the chips and dip platter.

Anna: A fresh approach from Pulvermacher Designs. I love the global influence, patterns and vibrant colors in these decoupage accessories.

Hannah: I love Waylande Gregory’s newest additions – mirrored everything!

Kelly: Ame & Lulu is one of my favorite “go to’s” for fun bags and accessories for all different activities including the beach, tennis, golf, etc. They are offering great refreshing colors for Spring and Summer!

Anna: This Stray Dog paper mache demi lune is the coolest. I think a pair of these would be glamourous yet playful  nightstands.

Kelly: Peter Alan Designs had great new table top items for interior/exterior use.  They are casual chic and always in style for entertaining.

Anna: This is statement artwork that doesn’t cost a fortune.  I love the simplicity of the silhouette on the reclaimed wooden backdrop.

Hannah: These Sugarboo enclosure cards have witty sayings for any occasion.

Anna: Joni and I loved these canvas and leather totes (so much that we purchased them for ourselves and the store). They are nautically inspired yet have fashion detailing that make them a Spring must have!

Hannah: Vietri’s new Italian Stoneware collection Lastra has great organic lines and is very durable. The pitcher is particularly stunning.

Kelly: Nancy Price has introduced her collection through Design Legacy.  I love the whole color palette with soft blue-grays, taupe, brighter blues and some metallics as accents. It is a beautiful twist on ordinary furniture pieces.

Anna:  This quirky ottoman also by Design Legacy just delights me! I imagine it in a funky yet hip beachside retreat.

Hannah: I could think of a MILLION fabulous arrangements to do in Camilla House’s oversized woven urns.

Anna: I am addicted to color so this lacquered turquoise dining table from Roberta Schilling made me swoon.

From Left to Right: Hannah Fulton, Retail Designer, Kelly Caron, Retail Associate and Registry Coordinator, Anna Ruby, VP Creative and Kathleen Mayers of KPM flooring enjoy a much needed break after a long day at market.

If you ee any items you would like to order or want more information about them, come see us at 35 Main Street, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 or call us at 843.682.1745.

JB

Lisa Whitley : White and Light

Right now, there’s something about a white kitchen that I’m really drawn to visually.  Maybe it has to do with the New Year – starting fresh, making resolutions to declutter and organize, eat better and lose weight.  Or maybe it’s the crispness of white that makes anything paired with it more vivid like the polish of cabinet hardware or a bowl of bright green apples sitting on the counter.

For those of you who know me well, you know that I love spending a Saturday afternoon reading cookbooks.  I’m no chef by any means, but I love to read new recipes and think of ideas on how to put a spin on the typical week night meal.  Check out these kitchens that are cook’s dream.

This kitchen shows how small amounts of black can create such an impact.  With the horizontal butt board and rough hewn columns, this kitchen would be right at home in the Lowcountry.

This kitchen has big windows that frame the hood, and the white creates such a contrast to the ceiling detail.

I love everything about this space.

I can picture all my girlfriends crowded around this island, laughing and helping prepare the big meal.

The simplicity of this kitchen really grabs my attention.  There is a ton of storage, but it’s still so open and airy.

This kitchen has so many elements I love including big windows, butt board and a cooktop that while large and black does not seem heavy because of all of the white in the room.

A white kitchen can still have a lot of personality and does not have to be plain.

The industrial elements coupled with the white bring a lot of character to this space.

Most importantly, kitchens are for cooking! Here are a few of my favorite cookbooks:

Bon Appetit,

Q & A with Joni Vanderslice : Showtime ITMA Market

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Joni Vanderslice to discuss her experiences at the December 2011 Showtime ITMA (International Textile Market Association) textile, leather and trimmings market. The Showtime market, located in High Point, NC, is a biannual event and is the largest trade show for textiles, leather and trimmings in the Western Hemisphere. It is a pre-eminent upholstery event and showcases the latest and greatest in new product introductions and color trends. The show boasts more than 113 professional exhibitors and is attended by more than 800 international trade visitors with direct buying power. Showtime is essentially the beginning of any fabric’s story.  If you have ever owned a couch, sat in an upholstered booth at a restaurant or purchased window treatments of any kind, the fabric used to make those items first appeared here.

JB: What was your primary reason for attending the fabric market this year?

Joni: My primary reason for attending the market this year was to select fabrics for the upholstered pieces of my Spring 2012 J Banks Collection.

JB: What particular fabric patterns, textures and materials were you looking for?

Joni: I was focused on finding ikats, suzannis, trellis designs, boucles, flocked velvet on linen and Belgian linens.

JB: Speaking of being focused, how did you prevent yourself from getting overwhelmed with the multitude of choices?

Joni: I think it is important to go into these situations knowing what you are looking for and keeping your focus narrow.

JB: What particular trends did you see that you were impressed with? 

Joni: There were so many beautiful new fabrics but I really loved the pieces with tribal influences. I was also very excited to see more true Belgian linens being offered.  This was a very rare option just a few short years ago so to see these fabrics readily available is really exciting for designers.

JB: You brought some fabric samples to share with us.  Can you tell us a little bit about those? 

Joni: Sure. Of course I was looking for suzannis and ikats. These Valdese (top left) fabrics were great and I loved the flame patterned  fabric and the Missoni inspired fabric. I found this great Robert Allen (below right) flocked velvet.  The trellis design (above left) particularly appealed to me in that it features a pattern composed of X’s and O’s which has become a recurring motif of J Banks.

JB: We can’t wait to see how these fabrics look on the new J Banks Collection pieces that will be unveiled at the April High Point Furniture Market.  Thanks for sharing with us Joni! JB

Adrienne Warner : Inspired by Sunny Tuscany

When Life Gives you Lemons….Make Limoncello!

Ciao Tutti! (Hi Everyone),

Maybe it’s due to all of the warm weather we are having around here lately, or perhaps the New Year has me feeling especially optimistic, because I am totally into YELLOW right now. Check out these inspiration pictures below featuring my current favorite hue.

At Castello di Casole, the Limonaia was where they kept  the lemon trees during the winter. Later this year this building will be transformed into 5 Loft style suites with private terraces. Check out the site photos (below) along with a rendering of the completed space (above).

Each suite in the Limonaia will feature an original lemon painting from Tuscan artist Cassandra Wainhouse.

Check out the onice miele marble slabs that will be the flooring in the hotel entry. I had an amazing trip to Carrara to pick these slabs with Luigi, one of the construction managers in Italy.

FAB chairs! I found these last summer at the Pandolfini Auction House in Florence. I also found this great lamp with a reclaimed terra cotta base.

My stepson Aiden rocked a yellow shirt in Rome. I love this picture of him.

Outdoor floor lamp by Aresill!

Yellow keeps popping up everywhere for me including the pages of Veranda, Elle  and other fashion and decor magazines – like these two that I liked so much I tore them out to keep them!

The quintessential Italian diva, Sophia Loren!

One of my favorite Italian drinks is Limoncello. Let me leave you with this easy and quick recipe by Mario Batali:

Mario Batali’s Limoncello

Ingredients

• 4 cups vodka
• Zest of 10 lemons, no pith at all, may substitute 15 limes, 6 grapefruits, 10 blood oranges, 12 mandarin oranges, or 8 regular oranges
• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 1/2 cups water

Directions

Place vodka and zest in a sealable jar, like a mason jar and allow to sit in a cool place for 4 days. On the fifth day place the sugar and the water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Allow to cook 5 minutes, remove from heat and allow to cool. Add sugar solution to the vodka solution and allow to stand overnight. Strain through a layer of cheesecloth in a conical sieve, pressing the solids firmly.Strain again through a second layer in the same manner. Chill and allow to stand 1 week. Serve very cold.

Here’s to a bright and sunny New Year!

Baci (A Kiss),