
Clocks have long been a fixture in homes worldwide, with not only a time-keeping function but also an aesthetic one. But as we've become drawn to our computers, cell phones, PDAs, and electronic kitchen appliances, we've found ourselves with little need for a free-standing clock, and these handsome things have fallen by the wayside. Personally, I like to put my gadgets to rest and out of my bedroom so I can have uninterrupted sleep, but I'll gladly grandfather in a good-looking desk clock.

I've been noticing these branch-base console tables at a few of my usual design haunts, and thought perhaps it's a growing a trend. I'm really loving the organic, textural quality they bring to a room, especially considering that many homes are leaning towards a more pared-down, modern look these days.
Good: Shown above is the
Ballard Designs Faux Bois Demilune Table ($699, reduced from $1,495).

Whether you live in a small
studio or a house with an occasional surplus of dinner guests, folding dining chairs are a smart thing to have around. Just tuck them in the back of a closet, or send them to your attic or basement, and you'll have spare seating ready and waiting — not clogging up your floor plan. Don't get me wrong: I don't advocate picking up a set of those beige
metal folding chairs you see at P.T.A.

If you're on the hunt for an accent chair to provide occasional additional seating, a slipper chair — a low-slung chair with a high back — is a great option. The classically clean lines of a traditional slipper chair design — basically two rectangles for the seat and back with no arms — make it versatile, complementing many interiors. Its low height and slightly sloped back give it more comfort than other accent chairs, and an intimate, relaxed look.

A friend asked me to find her a handsome wine rack for her bedroom because her recent grad roommates consistently drink any "booze" she leaves in the kitchen. Natch, I agreed. There are plenty of stylish wine racks, so I knew it wouldn't be a difficult task.

When it comes to rainy Friday nights, there's nothing better than curling up on the sofa with your shoes off. But when it comes to sofas, there's always a good, better, and a best. This go-round, I'm going to take a look at the trifecta of mid-century sofas, tufted, buttoned, clean-lined, and ready to make an appearance in a living room near you.

If you're including a ring bearer in your wedding, you're probably looking for a beautiful, classic pillow for him to transport the rings upon. While you can always find a satin-and-lace pillow at a bridal shop, why not make your pillow a little more unique? I've rounded up some hand-crafted pillows and one even more unique choice for your ring bearer in this
Good, Better, Best.
For modernists and those of us short on space, a wall-mounted nightstand is a sleek and functional furnishing that gets the job done. And by job, I mean holds your cell phone, reading material, and maybe a bedside carafe . .

A sofa by day, and a guest bed by night, a daybed is a versatile space-saver. Traditional Victorian style wrought iron daybed frames were originally handmade well before metalworking machines became available. So unless you're shopping antique stores, most wrought iron daybeds you find will be reproductions.

I think nesting tables are pretty rad. They're interesting looking, they're space savers, and two or three tables for the price of one? What can compare?