LCR West Hartford, Connecticut is an interior design firm and retail shop owned by lead interior designer Peter Robbin. Peter has a Bachelors of Fine Arts and a Bachelors of Interior Architecture, both from Rhode Island School of Design. After he graduated, Peter worked in Paris for 6 months before heading to New York City. There, he gained experience working for three well-known interior firms. Then, in 1987, Peter moved to Connecticut and purchased what is now LCR from interior designer John LaFalce.
Peter’s design philosophy is based in tradition. As a classically trained interior designer, he enjoys designing a room in a classic/eclectic mix, working to incorporate classic pieces ranging from Traditional to 20th Century Modern, to Asian to French. In a classic/eclectic mix Peter feels that because of the juxtaposition of the different styles, their best features are then highlighted; the curved leg of a Louis XV chair is highlighted and more visually appealing when it’s against a hard line of an Asian end table. Then, Peter uses proportion, materials and color to tie everything together and give the room a cohesive look. Texture is also a tool Peter uses in his interiors, using it to give the room a warm and friendly feel. When different textures are found throughout a room it feels more comfortable and inviting- the room says come touch, not look and don’t touch.
For Peter it is important to get to know his client before starting to scheme for his design. He observes how the client dresses and presents him or herself and uses that information to design a room that best suits their personality and style. He also takes time to find out how the room will be used and how it is naturally lit; two important factors in his design.
Peter Robbin is a designer who’s interiors are based in tradition but always stylish. He turns away from current trends in favor of a design that is timeless and will never go out of style, using classics from an array of periods to give a room a cohesive and beautiful design, only adding new style that will become tomorrow’s classic. There is so much currently stylish that is dated in a few short years.
Peter’s designs have been featured in publications such as Colonial Homes Magazine, Metropolitan Home Magazine, House Beautiful, and Hartford Magazine.
To Schedule An Appointment Please Contact:
Peter Robbin
LCR
981B Farmington Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06107
(860) 231-7712 ext. 300
pcrobbin@lcrcollection.com
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Tamara Childs: The Perfect Gift
Finding the perfect gift to give can often be an arduous task. Our clients at LCR West Hartford always have one request when we help them pick out a gift; it has to be special. Gifts should be just as exciting to give as they are to receive, whether it’s a small thank you gift or something larger for a special occasion. It should be unique, and a piece of art. When we find a line that fulfills all of these requisites, we can’t help but share it and get excited ourselves.
We first brought in Tamara Childs glass pieces into our retail shop about two years ago, and it has recently been added to our website. Tamara Childs is a Seattle native; there she works with fine sheets of metal leaf to create masterpieces on a wide variety of glass pieces, most of which are exclusive designs. Tamara’s glass pieces are available in eight different color-ways, three of those being Gold, Silver and Copper. To achieve the remaining colors, Tamara mixes the metals in true artisan fashion. What we are left with are Sunset, a brilliant mix of gold and copper that radiates light and warmth; Northern Lights, a cooler color with hints of purples and greens just as one would see in the Aurora Borealis; Variegated Blue and Variegated Green, both with a marbled effect in their respective colors, over a gold ground; and Moss, her newest color, a soothing mix of gold and silver.
In each of these colors, Tamara creates different patterns; swirls, zig-zags, and slashes accent a wide array of glass pieces. Because of the many color-ways and patterns this line truly has something for everyone, regardless of their personal decorating tastes or color preferences. Whether it be gold, silver or color; contemporary or traditional, we can attest that everyone can find a piece from this fabulous gift line. Because the pieces range from small pieces such as vases or soap dishes, to large trays or bowls, the perfect gift can be discovered for any occasion; housewarming to wedding, and everything in between.
We first brought in Tamara Childs glass pieces into our retail shop about two years ago, and it has recently been added to our website. Tamara Childs is a Seattle native; there she works with fine sheets of metal leaf to create masterpieces on a wide variety of glass pieces, most of which are exclusive designs. Tamara’s glass pieces are available in eight different color-ways, three of those being Gold, Silver and Copper. To achieve the remaining colors, Tamara mixes the metals in true artisan fashion. What we are left with are Sunset, a brilliant mix of gold and copper that radiates light and warmth; Northern Lights, a cooler color with hints of purples and greens just as one would see in the Aurora Borealis; Variegated Blue and Variegated Green, both with a marbled effect in their respective colors, over a gold ground; and Moss, her newest color, a soothing mix of gold and silver.
In each of these colors, Tamara creates different patterns; swirls, zig-zags, and slashes accent a wide array of glass pieces. Because of the many color-ways and patterns this line truly has something for everyone, regardless of their personal decorating tastes or color preferences. Whether it be gold, silver or color; contemporary or traditional, we can attest that everyone can find a piece from this fabulous gift line. Because the pieces range from small pieces such as vases or soap dishes, to large trays or bowls, the perfect gift can be discovered for any occasion; housewarming to wedding, and everything in between.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Fantastic Finds From the City that Never Sleeps
At LCR West Hartford the shopping trips that we take are some of the most exciting and fun times of the year. After three days of seeing everything there is to see in the world of gift, home accessories and tabletop we are so happy with what we will be bringing into the shop for the fall season.
We will be adding to one of our newer lines, the Grant Dawson Collection, which is part of the Four Seasons Design Group. The Grant Dawson Collection includes home accessories, tabletop and entertaining, and desk accessories. Every piece features an animal or a plant that is an endangered species; helping to bring awareness to that organism. A portion of all of Grant Dawson’s profits are donated back to the Sustainable Furnishings Council, a non-profit coalition from which Grant Dawson was awarded the Silver Exemplary Status in 2008. In addition to raising awareness of endangered species, Grant Dawson also prides itself on using sustainable resources for their line. They work primarily in pewter, precious metals, certified woods and recycled glass; with everything being made in the United States. One of our favorite pieces at LCR West Hartford, which is also best-seller, is the Dart Frogs Salt & Pepper. They are available in several color-ways and make the perfect addition to any table setting, adding not only a touch of whimsy but also serving as a wonderful conversation piece, as the story that goes along with the company is one to be shared. Their entire collection includes beautiful handmade pieces that truly do make the perfect gift.
At LCR West Hartford, our clients have come to expect beautifully set tables, and we are always on the lookout for the inspiration for the next stunning table. After revamping our selection of china over the past two years we were ready to move on to placemats, napkins and napkin rings, and boy, did we find some stunning pieces. Kim Seybert is a go-to line for tabletop at LCR West Hartford. As a former fashion designer, Kim Seybert always hits the mark with the latest trends. With the entire line before us, the challenging part was choosing what not to bring into the shop, but we are thrilled with what we bought. At LCR West Hartford we love gray for the fall season, so when we saw Kim Seybert’s gray capiz shell placemats in person, we swooned, and could immediately imagine the tables that could be set with them. At LCR West Hartford, we strive to bring in a wide array from neutrals to brights, dressy to casual; and enjoy setting tables in any style. We are happy to work with our clients to set the perfect table for their lifestyle using their special occasion china or everyday dinnerware, or anywhere in between. There is truly something out there for everyone.
Pean Doubulyu glass is a favorite line for tabletop at LCR West Hartford, and we are very pleased to announce that we will be carrying a larger selection for Fall and Holiday 2011. Pean Doubulyu glass is a family owned company out of Providence, Rhode Island; all glass is made there by hand. Pean Doubulyu glass is creative, colorful, and one of a kind. They have several collections within the line featuring tumblers, juice glasses, and carafes with everything from dots, to swirls to what they call the “wonkie jimmie” pattern pictured above. In addition to those classic favorites, we fell in love with new oversized, color-block pieces, including vases, bowls, and a cake plate. These pieces are the perfect home accessory to add a splash of color or an exquisite gift for a special someone. There are also clear glass pieces including a fabulous cruet set as well as stunning one of kind candlesticks that the artists make on Friday afternoons to end the work week on a fun note. Everything from the Pean Doubulyu line, from table top and entertaining pieces, to their home accessories, is a true work of art.
At LCR West Hartford we are so excited for all of the new product to arrive; now we just have to wait, which is always the hardest part. You can also expect new pieces from your favorite lines at LCR, such as Ben’s Garden, Diane Markin, Michael Aram, and Nambe. Because we are able to meet and talk to the artists while we are out shopping we are able to set up trunk shows for the fall season; be sure to check back with us for news on what lines will be featured as we get closer to the holiday season. We love trunk shows at LCR West Hartford because they are a way for us to bring a majority, if not an entire line to our clients. It’s a perfect way for us to showcase everything that is available in tabletop, gift, and home accessories.
We will be adding to one of our newer lines, the Grant Dawson Collection, which is part of the Four Seasons Design Group. The Grant Dawson Collection includes home accessories, tabletop and entertaining, and desk accessories. Every piece features an animal or a plant that is an endangered species; helping to bring awareness to that organism. A portion of all of Grant Dawson’s profits are donated back to the Sustainable Furnishings Council, a non-profit coalition from which Grant Dawson was awarded the Silver Exemplary Status in 2008. In addition to raising awareness of endangered species, Grant Dawson also prides itself on using sustainable resources for their line. They work primarily in pewter, precious metals, certified woods and recycled glass; with everything being made in the United States. One of our favorite pieces at LCR West Hartford, which is also best-seller, is the Dart Frogs Salt & Pepper. They are available in several color-ways and make the perfect addition to any table setting, adding not only a touch of whimsy but also serving as a wonderful conversation piece, as the story that goes along with the company is one to be shared. Their entire collection includes beautiful handmade pieces that truly do make the perfect gift.
At LCR West Hartford, our clients have come to expect beautifully set tables, and we are always on the lookout for the inspiration for the next stunning table. After revamping our selection of china over the past two years we were ready to move on to placemats, napkins and napkin rings, and boy, did we find some stunning pieces. Kim Seybert is a go-to line for tabletop at LCR West Hartford. As a former fashion designer, Kim Seybert always hits the mark with the latest trends. With the entire line before us, the challenging part was choosing what not to bring into the shop, but we are thrilled with what we bought. At LCR West Hartford we love gray for the fall season, so when we saw Kim Seybert’s gray capiz shell placemats in person, we swooned, and could immediately imagine the tables that could be set with them. At LCR West Hartford, we strive to bring in a wide array from neutrals to brights, dressy to casual; and enjoy setting tables in any style. We are happy to work with our clients to set the perfect table for their lifestyle using their special occasion china or everyday dinnerware, or anywhere in between. There is truly something out there for everyone.
Pean Doubulyu glass is a favorite line for tabletop at LCR West Hartford, and we are very pleased to announce that we will be carrying a larger selection for Fall and Holiday 2011. Pean Doubulyu glass is a family owned company out of Providence, Rhode Island; all glass is made there by hand. Pean Doubulyu glass is creative, colorful, and one of a kind. They have several collections within the line featuring tumblers, juice glasses, and carafes with everything from dots, to swirls to what they call the “wonkie jimmie” pattern pictured above. In addition to those classic favorites, we fell in love with new oversized, color-block pieces, including vases, bowls, and a cake plate. These pieces are the perfect home accessory to add a splash of color or an exquisite gift for a special someone. There are also clear glass pieces including a fabulous cruet set as well as stunning one of kind candlesticks that the artists make on Friday afternoons to end the work week on a fun note. Everything from the Pean Doubulyu line, from table top and entertaining pieces, to their home accessories, is a true work of art.
At LCR West Hartford we are so excited for all of the new product to arrive; now we just have to wait, which is always the hardest part. You can also expect new pieces from your favorite lines at LCR, such as Ben’s Garden, Diane Markin, Michael Aram, and Nambe. Because we are able to meet and talk to the artists while we are out shopping we are able to set up trunk shows for the fall season; be sure to check back with us for news on what lines will be featured as we get closer to the holiday season. We love trunk shows at LCR West Hartford because they are a way for us to bring a majority, if not an entire line to our clients. It’s a perfect way for us to showcase everything that is available in tabletop, gift, and home accessories.
LCR West Hartford Designer Bio: Robin Jones
LCR West Hartford is pleased to introduce our newest interior designer Robin Jones. Robin has been with LCR since early spring of 2011 and has been busy ever since. For Robin, interior design is a lifelong passion. His training and background is from working for Kenneth Hammett of Woodbury, CT, one of the premier antique dealers in the United States; he still enjoys antiquing and loves using antiques in his design schemes. Robin was also educated at Rhode Island School of Design.
While Robin’s personal style of design is more of an eclectic mix, he is open to and loves decorating in whatever style his client is interested in. Because of his traditional training and his belief that all design, from interior design to jewelry, to art, can be traced back to traditional origins; once these fundamentals are understood any design style can be achieved. Robin stated that you “can’t abstract a form if you can’t relate to it in a traditional way.” This leaves Robin with the ability to transform any space to fit the vision that the client has. He takes great care to get to know his clients and listen to what they are looking for in a design; and then schemes to make sure the room fits their lifestyle, whatever that may be.
Robin’s design point of view evolved into a classic/modern mix; he believes that great design is a mix; including everything from contemporary to traditional to mid-century modern. He believes that modern design is about editing; as opposed to a Victorian Style that is heavy and incorporates many accessories. Robin incorporates items from a variety of styles and backgrounds; combining Asian, French and Mid-Century Modern; and then continues to mix in different fabrics and accessories to create a cohesive design scheme.
Interior Designer Robin Jones is flexible and adaptable in his design schemes. He designs for the wants and needs of his client, and will be sure to create a unique and lasting space.
Robin Jones
LCR West Hartford
981B Farmington Ave
West Hartford, CT 06107
(860)231-7712 ext. 307
rjones@lcrcollection.com
While Robin’s personal style of design is more of an eclectic mix, he is open to and loves decorating in whatever style his client is interested in. Because of his traditional training and his belief that all design, from interior design to jewelry, to art, can be traced back to traditional origins; once these fundamentals are understood any design style can be achieved. Robin stated that you “can’t abstract a form if you can’t relate to it in a traditional way.” This leaves Robin with the ability to transform any space to fit the vision that the client has. He takes great care to get to know his clients and listen to what they are looking for in a design; and then schemes to make sure the room fits their lifestyle, whatever that may be.
Robin’s design point of view evolved into a classic/modern mix; he believes that great design is a mix; including everything from contemporary to traditional to mid-century modern. He believes that modern design is about editing; as opposed to a Victorian Style that is heavy and incorporates many accessories. Robin incorporates items from a variety of styles and backgrounds; combining Asian, French and Mid-Century Modern; and then continues to mix in different fabrics and accessories to create a cohesive design scheme.
Interior Designer Robin Jones is flexible and adaptable in his design schemes. He designs for the wants and needs of his client, and will be sure to create a unique and lasting space.
Robin Jones
LCR West Hartford
981B Farmington Ave
West Hartford, CT 06107
(860)231-7712 ext. 307
rjones@lcrcollection.com
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Sea Glasbruk: LCR West Hartford's New Gift Line
Sea Glasbruk is one of the newest additions to both LCR West Hartford’s retail shop and lcrcollection.com. Sea Glasbruk is an Orrefors/Kosta Boda company; all of the pieces in the collection are handmade in Sweden, as keeping with their customs. Sea Glasbruk pieces have been hand painted and hand made by Swedish artists for over 50 years. These artists create pieces that both uphold and explore Swedish design traditions. More modern in style, these pieces will add grace to any décor, making them the perfect gift.
Vases from the gift collection exemplify this grace with their angled rim. The vases from the Sea collection, as well as the bowls, are all created by the artists in collaboration with florists, thus ensuring that the pieces better suit floral arrangements. Large Sea Glasbruk vases hold a bouquet of cut flowers beautifully and, when combined with the brilliant colors of the vases, you are left with an absolutely stunning arrangement which will be sure to brighten a dull corner or be the perfect centerpiece on a foyer table.
Other pieces in the collection include a cake plate and large platter. With the clean simple lines that is indicative of modern Swedish design, these pieces a great addition to any tabletop, perfect for entertaining or to be left out as part of the home décor in a kitchen or dining room. The large platter could also serve as a center piece; perfect to hold a candle, potpourri, fruit or anything your heart desires.
Because of the bright and fun colors of Sea Glasbruk, they are not limited to being in a modern decorating style. The Vase in Red would harmonize wonderfully with a rustic or country scheme, whereas the blue, coral and even plum would accent a Tuscan decorating style. Our favorite use of Sea Glasbruk at LCR West Hartford would be for al fresco entertaining. We envision a mixed collection of the colors becoming the dining centerpiece and an excellent showcase for delicious cooking and fresh-cut flowers, a perfect addition to a summer evening spent with close friends and family.
The Sea Glasbruk collection from Orrefors/Kosta Boda is our new must-have. Its bright colors and versatility, combined with great price point, lend it to any lifestyle and decorating scheme. Because of this flexibility they truly make the perfect gift; large platters and bowls have a myriad of uses and with a wide array of colors as well as black and white, there really isn’t anyone who wouldn’t love a piece of the Sea as a gift.
Vases from the gift collection exemplify this grace with their angled rim. The vases from the Sea collection, as well as the bowls, are all created by the artists in collaboration with florists, thus ensuring that the pieces better suit floral arrangements. Large Sea Glasbruk vases hold a bouquet of cut flowers beautifully and, when combined with the brilliant colors of the vases, you are left with an absolutely stunning arrangement which will be sure to brighten a dull corner or be the perfect centerpiece on a foyer table.
Other pieces in the collection include a cake plate and large platter. With the clean simple lines that is indicative of modern Swedish design, these pieces a great addition to any tabletop, perfect for entertaining or to be left out as part of the home décor in a kitchen or dining room. The large platter could also serve as a center piece; perfect to hold a candle, potpourri, fruit or anything your heart desires.
Because of the bright and fun colors of Sea Glasbruk, they are not limited to being in a modern decorating style. The Vase in Red would harmonize wonderfully with a rustic or country scheme, whereas the blue, coral and even plum would accent a Tuscan decorating style. Our favorite use of Sea Glasbruk at LCR West Hartford would be for al fresco entertaining. We envision a mixed collection of the colors becoming the dining centerpiece and an excellent showcase for delicious cooking and fresh-cut flowers, a perfect addition to a summer evening spent with close friends and family.
The Sea Glasbruk collection from Orrefors/Kosta Boda is our new must-have. Its bright colors and versatility, combined with great price point, lend it to any lifestyle and decorating scheme. Because of this flexibility they truly make the perfect gift; large platters and bowls have a myriad of uses and with a wide array of colors as well as black and white, there really isn’t anyone who wouldn’t love a piece of the Sea as a gift.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
LCR West Hartford Showcases Lee Industries
In addition to being a full service interior design firm and a retail shop selling gift, tabletop and home accessories; LCR West Hartford carries furniture from several lines, including Lee Industries. Lee Industries is a family owned and operated furniture company that was founded in North Carolina in 1969. The founders of Lee, Bill and Dottie Coley, wanted to produce high quality, American-made furniture, and that is exactly what they did. Over 40 years later, they are still producing quality furniture, and have also turned their attention to the environment as well; according to their website all Lee upholstery contains certified sustainable frames, soy-based cushions, recycled metals, recycled fibers, and low VOC finishes. They have also partnered with several environmental councils to not only certify that their product is eco-friendly, but also to aid in promoting sustainability efforts on a national and global scale.
Our interior designers at LCR West Hartford have been using Lee furniture for many years now and they love it not only because of the quality, eco-friendly products, made in the USA, but because of the wide variety of pieces they carry. Lee is known for their sofas and chairs; they also have an array of benches and ottomans, as well as upholstered beds and outdoor furniture. Upholstered benches from Lee have been used by our interior designers in countless rooms of homes they’ve designed. Smaller ottomans have been used as vanity stools or as a piece that can be tucked away in the corner but then pulled out for extra seating when entertaining. On the other hand, larger benches and ottomans are perfect as coffee tables or, when placed in front of a fire place, can provide extra seating when needed, without blocking the view of what often is the focal point of a room. They are also great additions to bed rooms; whether a place to sit to put on shoes, or, in a kid’s room, a great place to read books or play.
In addition to the variety of pieces that Lee Industries carries, they also have many ways for their pieces to be customized. With over a thousand different fabrics to choose from, there is something for every décor. We recently brought six new pieces of Lee into our retail shop and they include a few examples of additional options Lee has.
Our tall, rectangular back wing chair is an example of how to upholster a chair in two different fabrics with a teal grounded velvet raised damask on the inside of the chair, the seat, and as a contrast fabric welt around the back of the chair where we have woven texture. We used antiqued brass nail head trim to delineate the two fabrics. Finally, the chair has legs in a warm fruitwood finish and antique brass casters to give it a complete and elegant look.
Our sectional sofa with a left-facing chaise is the perfect addition to any family room or den with its comfy seating. The woven texture in teal, gold and chocolate adds the perfect amount of visual interest while still reading as a neutral. By adding the teal velvet throw pillows with gold fringe sewn in, we achieve the perfect pop of color by pulling colors from the fabric to attain a cohesive look.
From contrast fabric welts, to nail trims, and leg finishes to throw pillows all accents are easily customized for any order here in our shop. Because LCR West Hartford’s retail shop is owned by an interior design firm we are able to utilize the same design techniques they use when ordering furniture for our retail clients. We have fabric samples that are available to be taken home so our clients can see them in their own space. Because we all have a passion for furniture, fabrics and upholstery it is an exciting experience to assist a client in selecting and customizing a piece of upholstery whether it is a sofa or headboard that will be an inspiration for a design or a small ottoman that is the perfect finishing touch.
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