As many Americans know, a large part of the furniture manufacturing industry has moved overseas to Asia. Yes, this greatly reduces costs but the disadvantages become innovation in new product and design, customizable options and level of quality and longevity. So when I was recently introduced to Aronson Woodworks, my heart skipped a few beats. In furniture design, it’s rare to see a line that is radically new and different from what I have seen before with a beautiful story behind the company to boot. Let me now spread the word….

One to Know: William McLure X Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery: Solo Exhibition Feb. 7th-Mar. 7th

Who isn’t enamored with the allure of William McLure lately? Artist turned interior designer or interior designer turned artist, whichever moniker you want to call him shouldn’t really matter when the lines between the two are so blurred in William’s world, both go hand in hand. His art and interiors have always stopped me in my Instagram scrolling tracks and I was beyond excited to learn about his month long solo exhibition here in Charlotte at Anne Nielson Fine Art gallery opening tomorrow, so I can have the opportunity to see his work in person .

Travel Diary: Isla Holbox, Mexico

I find travel to be one of the most inspirational aspects of my life. I love discovering new places, cultures and delicious food from the far reaches of the earth. Typically, those experiences influence my design work and personal style. Travel for me also provides a much needed time to relax and reconnect with my loved ones. I consider myself a somewhat adventurous traveler- my college summers were spent galavanting through Europe, my honeymoon consisted of a whirlwind tour through Thailand and Cambodia, I have safari’d in Botswana and South Africa, scoured the markets of Marrakesch and snorkeled through a barrier reef in Belize with a toddler in tow.

Designer tip: How to hang plates on the wall

With the holidays here, it’s time to break out your gorgeous china and treasured heirloom dinnerware pieces. I always have a renewed interest in all things table top with all the entertaining that I do this time of year. There are so many gorgeous dinnerware pieces out there both new and vintage, I always enjoy scooping up some interesting pieces while out gift shopping each year.

But if you want to enjoy eyeing your porcelain lovelies any time of the year, I simply adore a plate wall vignette. Large or small, it’s simply a clever and inexpensive way to add “art” to your walls. With so many interesting colors, patterns, shapes and sizes, a plate wall has the ability to add interest to your walls without distracting from other traditional art pieces in a room.

Holiday Cocktail Favorites

With Thanksgiving in just a few days, I know everyone is scrambling to get their home in tip top shape and ready to receive and entertain guests for the holiday. I adore Thanksgiving because it really is a time to be thankful for friends and family without the pressure of gift giving. It’s a moment of grateful pause before the consumer chaos of the Christmas holiday begins.

@brookecoleinteriors