We invited a panel of area designers—Carey Karlan, Fiona Leonard, Heather McWilliam, Krista Fox and Laura Michaels—to judge the IDAs category of product design. They selected their top 10 picks from a list of finalists, choosing the products they felt best exemplified innovative design. In addition, CTC&G readers voted on their favorite product here on our website.
WINNER
HEADS UP
The contemporary design of La Bastille’s June range hood wowed our judges. Handcrafted and made-to-order by a team of skilled artisans in Savannah, GA, the hood is available in six metal finishes. Pricing starts at $11,600.
READERS’ CHOICE
NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL
The Pure collection of eco-friendly rugs by JD Staron is produced without chemicals or external power sources. Made in Nepal, the rugs are handwoven using centuries-old weaving techniques. The wool is sourced from free grazing sheep and is hand-clipped, hand-washed, hand-spun and hand-knotted. No chemicals, dyes or soaps are used during the manufacturing process. Once complete, the rugs are re- washed in pure water and organic oil produced from neem plants. $95–$192 per square foot.
MODERN CRAFT
Marrying craft and materiality with function and comfort, the Workshop Collection from Workshop/APD includes furnishings custom designed by the firm over the decades. The assemblage includes dining, living and bedroom furniture. Pictured here, the Dune daybed is an example of the Workshop Collection’s modern, clean aesthetic. Wrapped in leather with satin brass accents, the daybed is a definite statement piece. Pricing starts at $13,040.
THE ART OF ENTERTAINING
Inspired by artist Piet Mondrian and designed by celebrated architect, designer and Danver Creative Director Daniel Germani, the Cosmopolitan kitchen by Danver Outdoor Kitchens is sleek and minimalist in a range of primary colors. The unit can be custom configured with integrated appliances and modular drawers. Price upon request.
PERFECT TIMING
Inspired by the precison engineering of dive watches, Waterworks’ Henry Chronos collection features a distinct grooved bezel. The fixture’s elegant scale and proportions are highlighted with luxury finishes of American walnut wood and supple Nappa leather. Durable and water-resistant, the leather—offered in black or brown—will achieve a rich patina with use. $190–$7,600, Waterworks showroom.
IN OR OUT
Designed by Hlynur Atlason for indoor or outdoor use, the Limbo chair by Heller is super comfortable and extremely durable. Perfect for poolside or lounging indoors, the modern chair’s swooping form hugs the body. The Limbo is sustainably made with post-consumer plastic and is fully recyclable. $1,175.
TABLE TALK
Bespoke brands Dunes and Duchess and Eleish Van Breems Home have partnered to create a very special table. The Capstan table is topped with Josef Frank’s Citrus Garden fabric from Schumacher and wrapped in a matte epoxy finish. The dimensions and fabric selection can be customized for a one-of-a-kind, stylish dining table. As shown, $14,200, available to order through Eleish Van Breems Home.
WEATHERED WOOD
Eldorado Stone’s Rivenwood panelized stone veneer mimics wood graining with authentic imperfections such as knots and nail marks—offered in three tonal wood colorways. Produced using a concrete mixture that’s poured into a mold and colored with mineral pigments, the lightweight material is easy to cut and handle for installation. Price upon request, available through Connecticut Stone.
FIRST-CLASS SEAT
Made in France, the Liaigre Rimbaud lounge chair features clean lines and subtle curves. Constructed with a sculpted, solid-wood base in walnut, oak or ebony, the plush cushion is upholstered in a choice of high-quality leather or fabric. The chair’s seat and backrest are generously proportioned, providing ample support and comfort. Price upon request.
VOLUME UP
Felt Right’s two-foot-square tiles mount easily for large-scale or full-wall installations. Seven engraved patterns and 35 colors are offered. The 3/8-inch-thick tiles provide sound dampening—ideal for a music room or child’s space—and are made from recycled plastic. $39 each.
This article appears in the December 2023 issue of CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens).