
I can't think of a more idyllic way to
warm up this month than soaking in the
Neiman Marcus Albright Bathtub Set ($6,489). Made of AcraStone, a chip- and wear-resistant material with a porcelain-like surface that is warm to the touch, it's a smart splurge if you're a life-long bath lover like me. Its Old World copper tub feet, faucet, and accessories have a classic appeal that will stay in style as long as its lifetime manufacturer's warranty.

This little
Aluminum Wine Table ($399) won't break the bank, but it's still far from a
steal. This is actually the type of
crave worthy product I love: one that's within my budget.
What started off as a traditional side table is suddenly delightfully modern thanks to the material it's been cast in.

One glance at the
Pottery Barn Canton Floor Lamp ($599), which stands more than five feet high with an oversize shade, and you know you're in the presence of greatness. With a transparent glass base and a linen shade, it's the counterpart to tall, dark, and handsome; the
Simon Baker to your
Clive Owen. If good looks aren't enough to sweep you off your feet, you'll be happy to know that Canton offers a little personalization as well.

I can't resist
bentwood furniture, a style pioneered by German manufacturer Michael Thonet in the 1800s, even in its
more modern interpretations. Try as I might, I never cease to be surprised swept off my feet by the timeless creations. Bentwood café chairs seem to be ubiquitous these days, and I never tire of them, but it is refreshing to see bentwood in another shape, such as the
Thonet Bentwood Settee ($1494).

While I do think the
zebra trend is pretty played out at this point, and I'm certainly not keen on animal hide rugs, I find myself pleasantly surprised by the
Horchow Sunflower Zebra Chair ($2,199). Not only does the winged accent chair look super comfortable and have great lines, but it's incredibly cheerful in its sunny zebra pattern. And you know how I love
nailhead trim.

I love a good plush seat, but sometimes I can't help but sacrifice comfort for good looks. And, that time is now. The
Antique Ebonized and Turquoise Silk Chairs ($1,300 for pair) from Paris Hotel Boutique don't look one bit comfortable, but they're just so ravishing.

OK, I may have had an irrational love for the 1966 Michelangelo Antonioni film
Blow-Up (starring Vanessa Redgrave, Sarah Miles, and David Hemmings) since I was in the womb, but I am not alone in my love for the mod Brit film's killer poster. It often tops lists of the world's greatest and most iconic posters (see
here and
here), written by cinephiles and design fiends alike, and for good reason. The original
1966 Italian design is the one most fawned over, but there are actually several variations, almost all featuring a sexy model and her photographer.

If you're feeling regal, take a seat in this
Peacock Chair ($1,699). Made with an alder frame and available in luscious colors like ruby, chocolate, and sage (shown here), it will dress up any room. To keep it from looking too fussy, pair it with unexpectedly modern accessories, such as sleek white sofas and ottomans or wooden pieces lacquered in bright, poppy colors.

I’ve shown you plenty of crave-worthy
rugs in the past with bold patterns and colors that really command attention in a room — rugs that really wow you. But there’s something to be said for understated luxury. For example, the simple lattice design of the
Martha Stewart Gate Rug ($359-$4,099) is distinguished and subtly beautiful, with a single color (salmon, blue maize, curry, or mist) and an uncomplicated repeating pattern.

OK, OK. My attention to
monochrome design may have gotten a little out of hand lately, but I promise you it will eventually fade. And, even if you don't subscribe to monochrome living, you should still appreciate the beauty of a black and white lamp like the
Lum A Little Bubbly Anyone?