Eye Know

Wow, it's been a while! But those of you who know what's going on with my personal life will give me a pass on not doing so much on social media for my business. Life gets in the way sometimes, right?

Anyhow, we all have mixed feelings about Ikea (or "The Big Evil I" as I often refer to it). "All roads lead to Ikea" is a quote I read from another designer a while ago and it's stuck with me because it's true. I was wandering around a couple of weekends ago (I know, I know--Ikea on the weekend! What was I thinking?!) just to browse and see what was new. Here's what I found:

A conference table section that could work really well as an against-the-wall dining table or a generous entry console.

An amazingly slim laptop table that could also be used as a slim console or accent table.

Bright, slim desk made of bamboo (which has a nice, tight grain and honey finish!)

Great pops of color in these wall-mounted storage cubbies.

At first I was drawn to these TV stands by their glossy finish and rounded corners, but then I saw the pink/magenta one on top and nearly lost my cool.

Ikea is NOT afraid of color. I would want these yellow display cabinets in my home. With the magenta TV stand!

A great midcentury-inspired coffee table with a woven shelf under the top. Not too shabby.

An amazing re-issued piece from Ikea's original 1940s catalog. This midcentury-inspired side table is going in my next place for sure.

Bentwood task chairs--perfect for a stylish startup's conference room or office.

Ikea's PS line often showcases more cutting-edge design for the masses. I like this drop-leaf bamboo dining table.

An awesome white wall-mountable clock. That touch of blue along the face is great.

For what it is, this inexpensive LED-illuminated mirror was surprisingly stylish. And you can't see any hot spots from the rope lighting. Just don't try to look behind the mirror...

Ikea is nailing it with the textiles. It's like a fun, whimsical color explosion in that department.

Real frosted glass shades on these lamps. Who knew!?

Perhaps the most stylish watering can you can get for 10 bucks. Dang.

Sprinkle some of these fun, colorful pieces in your home and let the sun shine in ;-) Just use your good judgment--you don't want everyone to know where you scored that fearless Malibu Barbie magenta TV stand, right?