Discoveries
An assortment of new toss pillows introduces freshness, fun and great color to any room of your new home. Put throw pillows to work as a unifying design element, bringing the palette and the patterns of a space together in a harmonious whole. You will find pillows that are formal (regal, even) as well as those that are just plain fun and funky in the price range of $85-$400 each at And So To Bed, On The Plaza, 1170 Third St. S., Naples. 262-3362.
You're in Florida now, so a little citrusy orange is in order. Why not start with a whimsical collection of sleek, modern and witty kitchen utensils. Prices range from $7.95 to about $30. See these cuties and lots more in shades of sunset red, key lime, Gulf of Mexico blue and lemon yellow. Nancy Young, Bell Tower Mall, Fort Myers. 489-4929.
Oriental rugs are a natural on Florida ceramic tile, wood or stone floors. They warm up a space, help define an area (so useful with our open floor plans) and add rich luxurious color. The 9 x 12 Saruk (shown here) dates from the 19th century and is worked in durable wool and time honored colors. $12,000. The newer silk and wool 70-line Persian in fragile pastel hues is hand-woven and hand knotted. It measures 9 x 12. The design is Tabriz and it is priced at $25,000 at Azar Gallery, 989 Airport Road S., Naples. 435-1883.
For versatility and for creating flexible space, a top quality folding screen is just the thing because it will last for generations, becoming a treasured heirloom. A tall four-paneled screen is art that can hide a mess, provide a room divider, conceal an ugly view, obscure architectural flaws and make a large room intimate enough for a romantic dinner just for two. We love this tropical motif with parrots from Maitland Smith. $3,185. Enfold it into your lifestyle by visiting the Holland Salley interior design gallery at The Waterside Shops, Seagate Drive and Tamiami Trail, Naples, 596-2928.
Pay special attention to the garden, terrace or pool deck because Floridians live outside. You will want splashy art, and who could resist these fanciful one-of-a-kind fish and flower sculptures. They measure from about two feet up to five feet tall and they can withstand the outdoor elements just fine. The collection is the inspiration of a group of Key West artists. Price range is $165 to about $400. The hardest part is choosing which one, so think in terms of a trio. Make your selections at Dennison-Moran Gallery, 695 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. 263-0590.
A big comfortable bed designed with reading and lounging (as well as good nights) in mind aptly describes this wonderful sleigh bed by Taylor King. Button tufted in soft gold chenille, it harmonizes well with a tropical or transitional decor as well as contemporary home furnishings. Go with the gold or choose from 1,000 fabric selections. The bed, excluding linens, box spring and mattress, is $2,658 at Norris Furniture Interiors, 5015 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. 649-5151.