INSIDE & OUT : GOLDEN TOUCHES
Bold strokes of gold adorn the glass platters of Projects, a New York-based collection by painter Franny O’Gorman.
Seeking a rich, dramatic look, O’Gorman, a former photo stylist, achieves this effect with reverse gold-leaf, meaning applying it to the underside, which keeps her pieces functional.
“They’re not microwavable because of the gold, but you can serve food on them and wash them in the sink without worrying about losing its brilliance,” said Serine Hastings, owner of the Loom Company, which represents O’Gorman and 14 other artists.
O’Gorman, who attended the Kansas City Institute of Arts, hand-paints all of her pieces.
In addition to her forest green and gold platter (about $120), O’Gorman has introduced “Falling Leaves” and a series of four “Seasons” pieces for fall.
The Projects collection is available at a number of stores in Orange County. For the location nearest you, call The Loom Company at (212) 366-7214.
STRIPE ZONE
Even the bathroom deserves to have a distinctive look, say the designers of “Zebras” bath and shower accessories. Using original artwork created by a design studio in Lyon, France, Oxford Bath Products of Franklin, Ind., adapted the colors and patterns for use in bath furnishings.
The pattern brings a strong image from nature into a room that typically lacks lively contrasts.
Ceramic accessories such as a soap dish, toothbrush holder and water cup are available from $10 and up. There is also a wastebasket and tissue cover. The shower curtain (about $35) has a high-contrast border, and the main sheet features zebras on a taupe background. It is 70% polyester and 30% cotton.
The “Zebras” collection is carried at Three D Bed & Bath stores and other bath and specialty shops throughout Orange County.
TABLE TIES
Strap-a-Tray connects to chairs and chaises to create a quick and portable table.
The lightweight tray, which has two straps, is secured via a hook and loop fastener similar to Velcro. The tray, which has cup and can depressions, fits on patio and deck furniture, across wheelchairs or between two chairs.
The tray (about $11 plus shipping and handling) is the brainchild of Karsten Anderson of San Diego, who started his company, KPC, about 2 1/2 years ago. “I was tired of big business and wanted to start my own company, control my own destiny,” said Anderson, 36, a former employee of General Dynamics.
“I needed an idea that was unique, plus it had to be self-funded. After much research, I came up with the tray,” Anderson said. The vacuum-formed plastic tray is produced in San Diego.
For information or to order, call (619) 571-1836.
