That’s why I often choose this line for my clients who want a lighter look with classic touches, and great value.

Now celebrating 20 years in the business, these boys really know their stuff. It’s a huge line that features, living room, bedroom and dining furnishings, with a well edited line of tables, consoles, and lighting.

Some of my favorites include the “Michael” recliner, it’s a real winner. Comfort, style, scale, and best thing it doesn’t look like a recliner. I seem to always use it in leather.

The “Mao Now” collection of tables and chests features cherry veneers, lightly distressed in a warm finish, offering timeless appeal. Priced well, and make stunning bedside tables.

Another winner is the “Norton” collection of seating which offers clean modern profile, deep comfort and could work well in modern or transitional interiors.

Ok Tim, keep it short. See what I mean at www.mgbwhome.com.

Recently in Toronto, shopping with clients, we came across this amazing room setting at Elte, one of my favourite sources.

“That’s it!” my client shouted. ” That’s the look I want…. It’s perfect.” Clean, lean Euro style comfort with ‘Loft Look’ style. I’m often asked to build a room with these statements. Glamorous pillows in shimmering patterns and plains rest on a field of textured linen upholstery. The oversized table to handle books, drinks and hors d’oeuvres, rests on a toe tingling wool 9′ x 12′ area rug in a upscale geometric pattern.

And, yes, they wanted the soccer ball style ottoman, to soften the angular edges and apply the WOW factor. Sexy, smart and sensual. Feature this setting before a LARGE SCREEN, and flickering fire for two, or a snappy, hip cocktail party for 20 over the Holidays. This is my choice also when ‘Shabby Chic’ or ‘Ho-Hum’ rooms just isn’t your style.

Elte Room Setting

Check out the September issue of Canadian House and Home magazine and feast your senses on the stylish Paris apartment of Patrick and Lorraine Frey, of the legendary French firm Pierre Frey. In my studio this is my first choice when a client wants authentic French designs in fabrics, wallcovering, and accessories from lighting to carpets. Investigate my Inspiration page on my web site and indulge in the classic and contemporary vision that makes Pierre Frey such an incredible source of style and inspiration. If in Paris, I would encourage a visit to their showroom at 27 rue du Mail, Paris 2e. I’ve had the pleasure of Patrick’s guided tour through their fascinating archives located on the floors above. When Patrick comes to Toronto to introduce the latest collections for spring and fall … I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

For more Frey endorsement, look into  Elle Décor, July and August issue for the Long Island summer house of Aerin Lauder, the grand daughter of Joseph and Estée Lauder, for a room filled with exquisite French fabrics.

The September issue of Traditional Home, pages 36, 136, 170, 172-3 feature Frey fabrics.  August House Beautiful, page 32, features wallpaper, and  September issue page 44, wallpaper again is featured.  Metropolitan Home, September issue page 48 features the French touch in a small Manhattan apartment.

Call to set an appointment for a personal presentation of this ‘hip and glamorous’ line, sought by design professionals world wide.  Studio and in home consultations are available for choosing designs best suited to your home.

This is my first posting and hopefully one of many centred on living comfortably with the people we love and the things we cherish.  It is about a personal connection to what we choose to display in our home and expressing personal style.

We’ll explore the options available to create inviting ‘living rooms’ for you and your family.  We’ll talk about how to design relaxed, imaginative rooms using a full spectrum of sources offering great style at any budget. I’ll show you how to put comfort first, whether your look is traditional, modern, or a blend of both.  We’ll master the mix by combining furniture styles, colours and textures, and explore the meaning of luxury in our lives. Best of all, we’ll reduce the fear of furnishing with personal style, by thinking of it as collecting rather than decorating.

I’ll try to be a source of inspiration, hands-on experience, and your guide to some of the most interesting design sources available. Come and visit my favourite showrooms, secret sources, and trade workrooms. Learn more about the alchemy of design through visits to the trade professionals I call my business partners. Visit my ‘Inspiration’ page and tour these progressive and talented style setters that never  cease to inspire me. I’ll share my clients’ stories, my travels in search of great design, and the excitement of working in the biz.

I invite your comments and questions.