Home decor, furniture, pewter and dinnerware handmade in Italy by the finest Italian artisans - AIHomeDecor.net
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September 14th, 2009
Benvenuti!
This week, I’d like to share with you a bit about the “Green Heart of Italy.” Umbria. Still truly an unspoiled region, Umbria is one of the only landlocked regions in Italy and is 40% magnificent woodlands and sits in the center of the country.
Umbria is comprised of two provinces, Perugia and Terni and has the fourth smallest population within all of Italy. Her residents vehemently preserve the history and it is here you can find many artisan studios featuring ceramics and pottery. Arte Italica Home offers many pottery based items. The Capri Cream Footed Bowl, for example is a timeless example of the level of quality and craftsmanship expected from Umbrian artists. The neutral white offers the opportunity to utilize this piece in many different settings while its size proves to be multi-functional. The artist’s impeccable attention to detail makes the Capri pieces worthy of being front and center. Perhaps fill the Capri Pitcher full with deep red peonies for a classic holiday centerpiece.
I would be remiss if I did not pay homage to Umbria’s agricultural bragging rights. Umbria is the top producing region of a delicacy known as the truffle. This fungi is cousin to the mushroom and is highly sought after making it a relatively expensive ingredient. It is, however, quite worth it! Below is a very simple salad recipe which highlights the pure organic flavor of an Umbrian beloved. Enjoy!
Celery and Black Truffle Salad
Pinch of salt
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 Cup extra virgin olive oil
Freshly cracked pepper
2 Black truffles (about golf-ball size), shaved to 1/16 inches thick
1/2 Celery stalk, cut into 1/8- inch thick diagonal slices
1/4 Cup coarsely shaved Parmesan cheese
In a medium bowl, whisk the salt and lemon juice together until the salt dissolves. Whisk in the olive oil and pepper. Add the truffles and celery. Toss very gently so as to not to damage the truffles. Divide the salad among 4 plates and place a few Parmesan shavings on each serving. Serves 4.
Tags: capri, pottery, recipes
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, How To's, Interior Design | No Comments »
September 8th, 2009
Benvenuti!
When you think of the colors blue and white together, what comes to mind? Perhaps you vision fluffy white clouds rolling against a crisp blue summer sky. Or maybe you see the ocean surf with its white capped waves against the deep blue power. I happen to think of my favorite blue linen suit. When worn, it makes everything about my day feel better. The color blue and all its varying hues have been associated with having an overall calming effect.
In décor, blue and white is no different. Blue and white together creates a calmly crisp environment, which is very pleasing to the eye. Robin’s egg blue walls against a white chair rail provide the perfect canvas for accent pieces such as Arte Italica Home Home’s Vecchio Amphora with Lid. Vecchio literally translates to mean “old”. The Vecchio collection has been brilliantly distressed to create an Old World feel. Hand painted details in hues of blue make this piece of art a stunning topic of discussion.
The Vecchio line would look amazing in many other settings as well. The Vecchio Pitcher, for example would showcase nicely amongst some cookbooks in a yellow kitchen or on the bureau of a coral bedroom. And imagine the Vecchio Footed Bowl on your dining room table with an arrangement of billowing blue and white hydrangea; fresh, clean and simply elegant!
Ciao!
EB
Tags: blue, vecchio, white
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
August 31st, 2009
Benvenuti!
The Ancient Roman baths were more than a place for bathing. Like today’s day spas, they were a gathering place where adults could focus on relaxation, healthy living, exercise and socialization.
Attendants were there to serve snacks and drinks while guests enjoyed the steamy air created by the under floor heating system, known as the Hypocaust system. This was a structure where hot air heated from basement fires flowed between the concrete columns which supported the ground floor. These basement fires were manned by slaves. And it is said that wooden sandals had to be worn to prevent the bathers’ feet from burning!
After steaming, bathers might enjoy a dip in the hot bath or calidarium, followed by a dip in the cold bath or frigidarium, whose waters were said to have healing powers. Massage with perfumed oils might have been another service of choice or perhaps a leisurely walk through one of the many beautiful gardens, which featured colossal sculptures and mosaic artwork. In larger bath houses such as the Diocletian of Rome, bathers could even choose to view athletic events in the bath theater. Upon completion in 305 A.D., the Diocletian was in excess of 130,000 square feet.
To add Roman flair to a bath décor, I love Arte Italica Home’s Vanity Trays collection in gold or silver! The Large Vanity Tray would be a gorgeous accent to any bureau or powder room. The tray and other items provide that ’special touch’ to give the essence being in a fine Roman spa. I would recommend keeping only a few items of display on the pieces such as a small framed photograph and a few collectible compacts or atomizers. Too much clutter would detract from its elegance!
Ciao!
EB
Tags: accessories, bathroom, gold, silver, vanity tray
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
August 24th, 2009
Italy is known for many fine cuisine contributions such as olive oil and wine. But we must also give proper homage to the internationally known and often sought after Espresso! Without Italy, there would be no Starbucks!
This concentrated beverage is held in very high esteem by the Italians. Some signs of a properly made espresso are a thick consistency, higher concentration of dissolved solids and the reddish-brown foam on top known as crema. Due to the concentrated nature of this brew, it’s often used as a base for other types of drinks such as Marocchino, Coretto and the very popular Caffe latte.
Marocchino is prepared with a blend of espresso, frothed milk and cocoa powder. The color of the finished product resembles a type of Moroccan leather once popular for use in Italian hat-making. Coretto (which is also slang for ’spiked’), is a classic Italian espresso which is ‘corrected’ with a spirit shot; usually grappa or brandy. Caffe latte, the Italian breakfast drink of choice, is basically a cappuccino with no foam.
Coffee beans are mostly imported to Italy; however the country export productivity has increased significantly due to the Robusta beans grown in the southern regions.
One of my favorite lines within Arte Italica Home, is the elegantly strong Portofino collection. These serving pieces know no boundary as they can coexist nicely with any taste or theme. The ceramic Portofino Mug, (with its amazing pewter base), provides a perfect container from which to enjoy a perfect espresso beverage! Enjoy!
Ciao!
EB
Tags: caffe, coffee, Espresso, glass and barware, portofino
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
August 19th, 2009
Benvenuti!
Whether you’re looking to update the existing lighting in a room or in the planning stages of creating a space, there are 3 general types of lighting with which you should be familiar. Ambient light is a good source for everyday use. This may be a pendant light in the center of a room. Accent light is used to create focus on a particular architectural feature or even perhaps a piece of wall art. Task lighting is used to provide concentrated light in an area specific to a task, such as reading or cooking.
In addition to any natural light sources you may have, a blend of the above 3 lighting types is the ideal within a room. Your choice of light, color and texture creates mood and atmosphere. (Bear in mind that light or pale colors reflect light while dark colors absorb.) So, not only should your lighting selections satisfy functional criteria, but reflect your very own and magnificent personality.
Arte Italica Home offers stunning lighting options, specifically chandeliers. The Regio collection is hand made in Italy and features tear-drop crystals with an amazing gold-leaf finish. Chandeliers are more generally used in larger, open spaces such as a formal dining room or grand entry. However, the Regio 5 Arm Chandelier in black with clear crystals would make a stunning and unexpected statement when hung above the kitchen sink! Or if cabinetry creates a space challenge, consider positioning the fixture above your kitchen island.
Another very popular and classic design trend is the utilization of such exquisite lighting in children’s bedrooms. Imagine the Regio 4 Arm Chandelier in gold and pink above the crib in a baby girl’s nursery. When implemented in this capacity, I would recommend using a dimmer switch. This option provides a built in ‘night light’ and is a very stimulating visual for baby. Lighting fit for a princess!
Ciao!
EB
Tags: chandeliers, lighting, nursery accessories, regio
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
August 11th, 2009
Benvenuti!
Among other agricultural resources, Italy’s vineyards provide the world with some of the finest wines in production. The central region of Tuscany produces what is probably the best known of all Italian red wines (and my personal favorite), Chianti!
The earliest records of Chianti wine dates back to the 13th century, prior to the Roman Empire. Some written documentation even suggests that early Chianti was actually a white wine. Blend percentages of this wine have varied over time. Today, however, true Chianti is made of at least 75-100% Sangiovese grapes, up to 10% Canaiolo Nero and up to 20% of any other permissible red grape variety such as Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The denomination is based on the region of production. For example, the more well-known Chianti “Classico” is produced in the limited area between Florence and Sienna while “Ruffina” is produced in the hills to the east of Florence. There are at least 8 zones producing quality Chianti today. Each wine features individual characteristics that are specific to their region which vary in climate, soil type, geography, etc. As recently as 1984, Chianti obtained the prestigious Denominazione d’Origine Controllata e Garantita or DOCG. This is the most prestigious denomination for quality Italian wines offering regional protection and recognition.
Indeed, a wine of this magnitude should be savored. How better to enjoy a quality wine than to sip it from a quality glass! Arte Italica Home has introduced the exclusively stunning Luxe stemware and barware line for those of discerning taste. The hand cut crystal is beautifully adorned with carefully applied 24 Karat gold by Italian artisans. These heirloom-quality pieces would make a breathtaking addition to any formal dining setting. Or if you prefer a less ornate approach, the Sofia clear collection is both delicate and elegant. When set with simple dinnerware, these mouth-blown glasses make a wonderfully clean and modern statement. Bellisimo!
Ciao!
EB
Tags: glass and barware, luxe, sofia, wine
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | 1 Comment »
August 3rd, 2009
In light of the tragic Abruzzo Earthquake on April 6th of this year, it becomes a humbling reminder that even in all of her glory; Italy has again fallen to the wrath of Mother Nature. Historically better known for volcanoes, Italy houses some of the more active. We’re all familiar with Mt. Etna, (Taormina, Sicily), who stirs daily with the undercurrent of threat. And I can still clearly recall the impact felt upon viewing a grade school film regarding the 79 A.D. eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. When this particular mountain of fury again decides to explode, the Venetian Provinces of Naples, Avellino and Salerno may one day fall prey.
The ancient city of Pompeii was ravaged from the first eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. The entire city was caught off-guard and engulfed in molten lava. It is from the ashen-preserved artifacts uncovered by excavation crews and scientists that the Arte Italica Home artisans found inspiration for the Pompeii collection. The detail and colors used signify the intricate craftsmanship common to the lost city’s inhabitants. And the quality of work maintains a level to that of its predecessors.
Whether indoors or out, the creations featured in the Pompeii line will add pure prestige to your décor. And do keep a creative mind about how to utilize the pieces in your home. The Pompeii Black Large Handled Urn makes a stunning statement when used as an umbrella stand next to the front door!
Tags: pompeii
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
July 27th, 2009
Benvenuti!
When the Island of Sicily is mentioned, a vision of rich historic culture comes to mind. Sicily has evolved into a delicious melting pot in the worlds of art, architecture and cuisine as the result of her many invaders of times passed. She is known for her predictably warm climate, long sandy beaches, and a growing wine industry. But not commonly known is that Sicily also produces some of the world’s finest almonds.
Almonds are typically associated with a traditional Italian wedding. Small bags of candied covered almonds, (more commonly known as confetti), are placed at the dinner settings for guests to enjoy upon arriving to the reception. These yummy delights represent marriage as a union of ‘bitter and sweet’. And after enjoying a fine Italian meal, guests have yet another opportunity to enjoy the ‘fruits’ of Sicilian labor. In addition to a wedding cake, elegant displays of Italian Wedding Cookies are offered.
Please do not let the name of the cookie prohibit you from serving them at other special occasions! They’re an appropriate serving size and accompany any other sweet very nicely. The perfect piece upon which to feature these lovely white, powdery cookies is the Espresso Buffet Stand. The rich brown stand graced with hand crafted pewter would make a statement with any petit four. Here’s a fool-proof recipe for a traditional favorite!
Italian Wedding Cookies
1 1/2 cups butter or margarine (I prefer unsalted butter)
3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
3/4 teaspoon finely ground sea salt
2 cups finely ground almonds
4 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar for rolling
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Cream butter/margarine in large bowl; gradually add confectioners’ sugar and salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Add almonds and vanilla. Blend in flour gradually and mix well. Shape into teaspoon size balls and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Do not brown. After slightly cooled, roll in remaining confectioners’ sugar.
Ciao!
EB
Tags: Espresso, recipes
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, How To's, Interior Design | No Comments »
July 24th, 2009
For Immediate Release
Arte Italica is proud to announce the launch of their first retail website – Arte Italica Home. Arte Italica continues to be one of the nation’s leading importers of luxury tableware and decorative accessories. This reputation has given us the boost to take this essential virtual leap. Our customers value their home environment and want the products they purchase to be beautiful and distinctive. Each and every piece you find on Arte Italica Home is lovingly made using age old traditional techniques from Europe. We invite you to take a journey into pure luxury by visiting Arte Italica Home right in the comfort of your own home or office. Awaiting you are extraordinary accessories and furnishings of top quality that cannot be found elsewhere.
Arte Italica Home showcases our one of a kind furniture, lighting, and mirrors. Vintage favorites that are featured include the Antico collection with its decorative roping, leaves, and grapes, and the Pompeii collection, the hand thrown planters that are a stunning addition to any home or garden. Fresh products on the site include Luxe, Nuovo Horn, and Luminoso. The Luxe Collection is made of hand-cut crystal and exquisite designs, each piece can be customized with initials, monograms, family crests and symbols in 24-karat gold. Nuovo Horn is an exclusive collection of knife sets, cheese knives, and place settings that have the beauty of natural horn, but are also highly durable. Our Luminoso Glass Lamps bases are beautifully mouth blown into exquisite shapes that add drama and glamour to any room.
Coming soon to Arte Italica Home include Murano Di Mare, Guila Bath, and a stunning collection of blue and white home decor pieces. The Murano Di Mare collection offers whimsical pieces created using the ancient techniques of mouth-blown glass. Inside a clear glass carafe is an enchanting mouth-blown red, yellow, and orange seahorse. The carafe is accompanied by coordinating tumblers. The Guila Bath collection is a dazzling grouping of 24 karat matte gold and platinum bath accessories, all made of crystal. The tissue box and wastebasket are handcrafted using cut crystal. The Blue and White consists of three ceramic objects of art which elaborate handles. Each striking piece is undeniably unique, imaginative, and stunning.
We invite you to indulge yourself in the quality craftsmanship and historical significance of our objects that harmonize with either traditional or contemporary settings. Make sure you bookmark our website, www.arteitalicahome.com. We hope you enjoy your journey.
ARTE ITALICA HOME
Murray Hill Station,
PO Box 1929
New York, NY
10156-1929
(866) 315-3710
www.arteitalicahome.com
Tags: arte italica home
Posted in News | No Comments »
July 20th, 2009
Benvenuti and welcome back to Arte Italica Home’s Home Décor Savvy section!
As I tap away at my keyboard, I find it appropriate to inform you that I love my backyard. While sitting on my shaded deck and listening to the trickle of a gentle waterfall close by, it has become apparent that for the next four months our so, a majority of my time will be spent right here in this chaise. Even the cats have begun demanding my attention in the early morning to let them outside. Their goal, like most of us, is to do little more than slumber in the summer sun, surrounded by summer sounds. I will add, however, that in order to enjoy the “out of doors” (as it is called in the Southeast), the space must be… well, comfortable. What that means is directly up to you, my dear reader.
If you’re like me and reside in a climate that experiences all four seasons, then the summer signifies a time of family cookouts, evening entertaining and an overall desire to be outside as much as possible. Some of you may have outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, or even outdoor entertainment centers. Regardless of the technological advancement of your outdoor space, it is becoming more and more common for decks and backyards to take on the personality of an actual room.
Creating an outdoor space is comparable to how you would design an interior space. First, think of how your space will mostly be used, determine how to best utilize the space you have and then finally, select pieces and colors that exemplify your personality and make you feel happy.
There’s nothing more striking than creating a spatial boundary than utilizing gorgeous Italian planters that are rich in color, such as the Scavo Large Footed Planter and stocking them full with Double Impatience in deep purple and white. Or perhaps consider the Pompeii Black Tall Footed Planter and inserting a hearty arrangement of red geraniums. For your outdoor dining table, the Pompeii Green Medium Decorative Bowl filled with fresh colorful fruit such as lemons and oranges would make a fabulous centerpiece. And let’s not overlook outdoor lighting… candles, candles, candles! They are inexpensive, beautiful and create ambiance regardless if you’re serving grilled scallops with a fine Pinot Grigio or burgers with a keg of Moretti beer. For an unexpected centerpiece, I recommend using the Museo Antiqued Plate with Scroll as a base. Adding a variety of white candles in different heights accented with vibrant hydrangea will not only be a centerpiece of appropriate height, but a beautifully fragrant one as well.
Happy entertaining and until next time, Ciao!
EB
Tags: museo, pompeii, scavo
Posted in Home Decor Savvy, Interior Design | No Comments »
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