Style

New Rooms for Old Houses: Beautiful Additions for the Traditional Home (Taunton Press, $40)
Published in conjunction with The National Trust for Historic Preservation, New Rooms for Old Houses takes both design and history enthusiasts on a fascinating tour through the golden age of architecture. Written by renowned architect Frank Shirley, it has become the essential resource for anyone considering expanding an old home. Through words, pictures and architectural drawings, Shirley shows how to enlarge a home without sacrificing the charm and character of the original structure.

No Sweat
Reminiscent of glassware fashionable in 1920s Indochina, this carafe and its coordinating tumblers and tall boys are wrapped in hand-woven fern rattan. Aside from its aesthetic appeal, the casing is also quite functional, keeping beverages cold and hands dry. Smith & Hawken, 800/940-1170, or go to www.smithandhawken.com.
Sitting Pretty
Although it’s typical of French provincial pieces of the 19th century, this high chair made of walnut and chestnut is truly a rare find. Purchased in the heart of Provence near St. Rémy, its rush seat and intricately carved frame make it the perfect throne for your petit prince or princess. Uptowner Antiques, 3828 Magazine St., 891-7700.

Local Perspective
Reynaldo Gonzalez’s mirrors reflect more than just an image –– they reflect New Orleans’ unique charm. Inspired by the architecture and people of his hometown, Gonzalez enlisted the city’s most talented artisans to create a collection of neo-eclectic mirrors using eco-friendly materials and manufacturing principles. Marigny, at left, is an example of the local goods that are making their way into the finest homes across the country. Reynaldo Gonzalez Design, 5500 Prytania St. (by appointment only), 330-4061, or go to www.reynaldogonzalezdesign.com.
American Pie         
Whether it’s apple, pumpkin or blueberry, the concept of “pie” is almost an entirely American phenomenon. But ironically, it was Frenchman Jacques Henry who started the craze when he was granted a U.S. patent for the traditional American pie shape. This year, Henry’s classic scalloped-edge dish celebrates its 100th anniversary, giving us one more reason this month to love the good ol’ U.S. of A. Gentry, 6047 Magazine St., 899-4223, or go to www.emilehenryusa.com.
Rock On
A kick of color can reinvent any relic, and precious turquoise proves just that. Chunks of Kingman and Zachary turquoise are affixed to this pair of 18th-century Italian candelabras to purvey a look that’s fresh and exotic. Karla Katz and Co., 4017 Magazine St, 897-0061.

Force of Nature 
Part of her Studio 2008 Collection, sculptor/ furniture designer Marsia Holzer’s side tables are inspired by nature and made from recycled aluminum. Practical, modern and visually appealing, the Aluminum Tree Side Tables not only serve as tables but also double as sculptures. Marsia Holzer Studio, 212/431-9343, or go to www.marsiaholzer.com.
Walking on Eggshells
Award-winning designer Vicente Wolf combines an intellectual philosophy of design and an artist’s vision of creativity with Crack Up, part of Tufenkian’s Designers’ Reserve Collection. His silk/wool masterpiece, available in such brilliant hues as Flame and Marine, has a look that’s complex yet subdued with its organic and ethereal design elements. Rug Chic Home Décor, 4240 Highway 22, Suite 6, Mandeville, 985/674-1070, or go to www.tufenkiancarpets.com.