Courtney Porter

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Classic glamour and organic imperfection: unpacking Kristi Nelson’s distinctive style

When do you know the work is finished? When do you step away? That was a problem Kristi always struggled with as a visual artist and one many creatives will find relatable. Something finally clicked during her recently completed project: a chic, feminine flat in Los Angeles that was, “all about the furniture.” When reflecting on what would become her favorite residential project, she recalled trying to put her client’s art collection on the walls. It was beautiful but it “never felt right.” That’s when she realized, that was because it was unnecessary. “There are sometimes when undone is done.”

illustration of a living room

Holiday homes, florals and Fairfield Chair: Christopher Todd is the king of versatility

But Christopher’s skills extend far beyond the realm of festive holiday party decoration. He’s the go-to designer for crafting unforgettable moments, whether it’s through lavish private parties, fairy-tale weddings, or prestigious events like the Academy Awards and luxury car launches. And it’s that sensibility he brings to his interiors as well and to Fairfield Chair’s Third Annual Virtual Design Challenge.

Architectural Workers United

Architects are unionizing – is the industry paying attention?

On December 21st, 2021, the establishment of Architectural Workers United (AWU) ignited a nationwide discourse concerning architectural labor and its value within a system fraught with exploitation. It has slowly been gaining traction ever since. AWU represents a collaborative initiative of architectural professionals hailing from various firms, united in their pursuit to revolutionize the industry through grassroots efforts. Notably, the United States currently lacks a prominent private sector union for architects. While a union briefly existed prior to World War II, the past five decades have seen a void in election activity.

SmithHönig combines texture and updated traditional design 

Inspired by the time-honored ikat dyeing technique where dye penetrates unevenly and creates a blurred, hazy effect, the 18”x18” pillows in the collection feature a printed ikat design in double-sided, soft-sueded velvet with a concealed zipper. The pillows are available with or without a luxurious down-alternative vegan insert. All SmithHönig pillows are hand-sewn and made-to-order in the company’s Dalton, Ga. facility.

PAR KER Made x Ayara makes boho line work for your walls

A match-made-in-heaven partnership between Parker Heath and Ayara was born from a chance meeting at Las Vegas Market, where Parker was exhibiting to gain further exposure for his own brand, Par Ker Made. What blossomed was the Par Ker Made x Ayara luxury removable wallpaper collaboration. 

Building a successful design firm with Kate FitzGerald-Wilks

Fast forward 9 years and now she is the one offering the tips and tricks. We ran into one another at High Point Market and she caught me up about the current state of her booming business. Click play on the video below to watch our conversation to learn how Timeless by Kate Fitzgerald-Wilks developed into the successful firm it is today

Furniture that makes you feel good with Austin Allen James

This Summer at Las Vegas Market, artist and product designer Austin Allen James unveiled his new collection of art, case goods, lighting, and soft goods with Stylecraft. This week we caught up with Austin for a wide-ranging conversation about the intersection of art and functional product design, how you know when the work is finished, the pursuit of universal beauty, and why he is glad he didn’t know anything about the business of art and design before committing to it.

Jennifer Farrell designing on and off television

Jennifer Farrell, a renowned celebrity designer and television host, has captivated audiences with her shows and designs for over two decades. She gained national recognition as the host of the long-running series Find & Design and currently hosts popular shows like Million Dollar House Hunters, Find Me a Beach House, and Most Amazing Homes.

Having the Pinterest house won’t make you happy and other design lessons with Wendy Glaister

Wendy was an early adopter of Houzz, advertising on the platform as far back as 2015. She still attributes much of her success to Houzz, and specifically being an early adopter. For a designer getting started today, they may not have as much success on the already saturated platform. It may behoove them to get experimental and trailblaze a newer platform. Find the place in the Wild West that doesn’t already have a populated boom town and become the mayor. 

Las Vegas market product previews: furniture & rugs

With timeless track arms, durable upholstery, and legs available in either a wood or metal finish, The Fantasy Sleeper Sofa Bed comes in Full XL, Queen and King with one of Luonto’s best selling mechanisms.