WENDY'S STYLEFILE

Remember the days when you saddled up to the lunch counter at Lord & Taylor or for me, Hutzler's in Baltimore? I have visceral memories of eating egg salad sandwiches with potato chips, tea sandwiches and chicken salad with my grandmothers. There was something simple and chic about those days, way before L'Avenue took over Saks. You shopped and lunched without all the pretense but with the same amount of fun.

It got me thinking about counter seating and how our kitchens have been transformed to provide the island experience. Guests, kids and family members hang out while I cook and hand out samples along the way. It provides for a more casual experience that somehow feels different than eating at the table. All in, it's great and adds a certain flair.

So, with that in mind, we want there to be choices to satisfy all with both form and function as these seats are front, center and hopefully used frequently.

Here's what's new

l-r: Burke, Darcy Graphite, Brooklyn

photo credit: NYPL Digital Collection

This summer seems like it's going to be a busy one. Not only are people traveling again, but invitations of all sorts are flying. We recently received an invite to a fun Memorial Day Weekend cocktail party where "Adult houseguests welcome" was written front and center. I smiled with both relief (we have houseguests) and elation as a sense of normalcy is palpable again.

Speaking of all those houseguests, it's time for a "fresh refresh" as I like to call it. Our houses and apartments have been ground zero for so long now, even if they're perfectly appointed, we're all sick of the same. My friends are requesting new chairs, new cocktail tables and new beds, oh my.

So, out with the now and in with the new. I'm ready for you, friends.

l-r: Elle Small Desk/ Console, Burke Dining Chair, Heyworth King Bed, Hampton Backgammon Set

Photo above by Gentleman Bobwhite

I’ve been dreaming of travel for over two years now, and I assume I’m not the only one. Being creative, like many of you, my inspiration needs to come from an array of experiences, all visual and a lot of new. Monotony is like a slow, excruciating slumber. So now, time to move and groove.

Carl and I have been going to Greece for years, first to Mykonos but dare I say we are too…impatient. The crowds, the traffic, the champagne spraying, need I say more? After some research years ago we discovered Paros, it’s all the things we coveted about Mykonos…food, scene, beaches, culture, shopping, beauty but just less loud. So, Paros here we come; I’ve been dreaming about you all winter long.

I doubt I’m the only one dreaming of the coast which leads me to introduce our newest collection, inspired by the sea. The IH Coastal Collection consists of 60 frames / 9 fabrics / 4 weeks shipping and a large assortment of white and natural furniture. Basically, all you need to furnish your spot by the water. So, spend less time agonizing and more time splashing.

l-r: Carlisle Swivel Chair, Channel Cal King Bed, Maryl II Dining Chair

Did you know if you use filtered water, your ice cubes will be crystal clear? I’ve been doing that lately, along with adding an edible flower, lemon or lime peel to up our cocktail game. I think I may try an olive along with a splash of olive brine and see where that leads at our next soirée.

Speaking of clear, our acrylic furniture, (a signature category for us) is even more robust with new designs just added. From cocktail, dining and occasional tables to desks and chairs, our thick, clear acrylic is most coveted.

l-r: Ryane Dining Table, Tristan Acrylic Chair, Ava Acrylic Desk

Sometimes, I feel like it takes a village to make a bed. And, if you're anything like me, the bed must be made daily. I need everything neat, clean and put in its place; our kids don't feel the same way, but that's another conversation.

As you all know, I'm all about textured neutrals and our beds (and bedding at home) reflect that. A bedroom should be a calming sanctuary, a place to relax, unwind and feel at peace. Right now, our beds are having a moment and our new designs are getting a lot of love. Enjoy.

l-r: Kaia King Bed, Quadrant Cal King Bed, Ornette Queen Bed

Here on the East Coast, it’s freezing, so we’re all spending even more time inside, lighting fires, cooking and getting cozy. It seems like there’s optimism in the air, and for that I’m grateful.

While inside, we’re always looking for that comfy spot in our homes, the spot that becomes “our place”. That being the goal, the tactile coziness of sheepskin, along with its innate chicness helps the cause. We can snuggle up in a warm, stylish chair which feels like getting a big hug from a stylish friend.

Here are two great book recommendations to enjoy while lounging in that chair - one fiction, one non-fiction, both equally engaging.

l-r: Barrett Chair, Angelica Chair, Royce Chair, Layla Chair, Simone Swivel Chair

l-r: Empire of Pain, Malibu Rising

Photo above by LIVEKINDLY