Edited by Cheryl and Jeffrey Katz
Something Old. The best way to navigate the vagaries of fashion-and the inevitable fact that trendy design dates quickly-is to choose freely from the world at large. With an eye trained on history (as important as one looking to the future), the possibilities are limitless. For every sleek sofa, there is a distressed fabric to cover it; for every polished surface, a tarnished one; for every spanking new cabinet, one that is weathered and worn. A curatorial eye, along with a historical reference, makes everything old look new again-and keeps everything new from ever looking old.
Repurposed This industrial metal Holophane light was probably rescued from a factory, but now it would look great over a dining table, a desk or-in celebration of its former life-any kind of work surface. The pole lengyh can be ordered to you specifications. Light measures 1 1/2" h x 14" w. $650. Get Back, Oakville, Conn., (860) 274-9991, www.getbackinc.com