Atomic Era Lamps

These days there are so many online resources for accessories.  So, when I find one that really stands out as unique I bookmark it and shop it often.  That has been the case with Laurel Leaf Farm for quite some time.  I love the site because it has unique stuff that hasn't been "dolled up."  You do have to dig(yes, even online), but the deals are great.  

Recently, I went to their site to source some brass accessories and discovered their sister website known as 1st Stop Retro Shop!  Well, let's just say:

 IT'S THE BOMB!

 And in this case . . . the Atomic bomb (cheesy, huh? Sorry, I couldn't resist).

I stumbled upon these Atomic Era lamps which are so cool.  The Atomic Era developed due to a time in our history when the atomic bomb and nuclear energy were being discovered/considered for defense/energy for our country.  During this period of time, interior design began to reflect our political circumstances.  After all, designers do not design in a vacuum.  It is also worth noting this was during the midcentury modern upsurge, so these pieces have modern lines.

So, there's your history lesson for the day, on to the finds!

Atomic Ear Brass Lamps - these would really bring an authentic layer to any space.  And that is what you want in your home, not something that looks like it came straight from a catalog.  Rather, something that has developed over time into your space.  

These are $60 for the pair (you can't even find this kind of deal on Craig's list anymore)! 

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This one is also $60 and would be amazing on a bedside table or in a study - great patina.

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And last, but not least, (this one is my favorite) this beauty is $50.  It would look unbelievable as an accent lamp on a traditional bow front chest with other accessories including a large piece of modern art to really balance the traditional casement piece. 

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Here's a little inspiration on mixing this modern style with more traditional pieces.

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Say What You Mean!

We all live with preconceived notions, and interior design is no exception.  As an interior designer, it's my job to help clients visualize a space.  You can't expect someone to get what you have worked out in your mind for a particular room.  It takes pictures and samples of everything to allow the client to see the big picture.   Let me give you an example of what I mean.

If I told you I wanted you to consider animal print for your space, would you think of this?

or would this come to mind?

  If I told you I really wanted to include a fresh arrangement of carnations [which, by the way, is my least favorite flower on the planet], would you think of this? 

Or would this come to mind?

And, if I suggested we include a "shot of mod" to freshen up the space, would you think of this?

Or something more along these lines?

"Show me" is way more important than "tell me" in the world of interior design.

"Everyone is a prisoner of his own experiences. 

No one can eliminate prejudices - just recognize them."

- Edward R. Murrow