An Intriguing Mix

Shops 2009

Blending styles, colors, and textures is the best way to create a comfortable, thoughtfully collected look. Consider adding a bright hue to a neutral scheme, an antique to an otherwise contemporary space, or a shiny bowl to a grouping of pieces with muted patinas.

Here are some fixtures and furnishings to get the ideas flowing.

Laid-Back Luxury

Low and curvy, the Ursula sofa boasts a glamorous button-tufted back and a deep, comfy seat. It’s available in several custom sizes and hundreds of fabrics, so prices vary. ID inside design, 211 N. 1st St., Mpls., 612-317-0045

Taxila carpet in antique white by Stephanie Odegard

Plush Fashion

An Indian pendant earring featuring a floral motif linked with stylized dolphins inspired the subtle pattern of the Taxila carpet, shown in Antique White. As with all rugs designed by former Minnesotan Stephanie Odegard, it carries the RugMark Foundation label, which ensures it’s made without child labor. Starting at $105 per square foot. Odegard, 210 N. 2nd St., Mpls., 612-455-6100

Illuminated Classic

Neoclassical elements influenced the elegant silhouette of the Empire chandelier by Cristal, which features a wrought-iron frame and dark amber crystal ornamentation. $602.95. Cartier Lighting, 151 Cheshire Ln. N., Plymouth, 763-476-9555

Minnesota Modern

A stitch detail on the seat and a brushed stainless-steel base add subtle style to the very square Animal Lounge Chair, shown in Guacamole, from Minneapolis–based Blu Dot. $899. Roam, 813 Glenwood Ave., Mpls., 612-377-6465

Savannah Collection from The Brass Handle

Elegant Entry

Hand-forged of solid brass in the United States by Classic Brass, the entrance knob set from the Savannah Collection comes in twenty-five finishes; additional custom finishes are available. $850–$1,000 for stock finishes. The Brass Handle, Galleria, 952-927-7777

Fresh Greens

Pretty leaf motifs make the Caladium plate set fun for small meals (plates measure seven-and-a-half inches in diameter). $18.95 for a set of four. Patina, five metro locations, including 1581 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-644-5444

Burnished Treasure

Inspired by an antique East Indian cooking vessel, this bronze sink—part of the Bronze Collection from Linkasink—is cast in sand and hand-finished. Its “living finish” will darken over time. $1,600. Fantasia Showrooms, International Market Square, Ste. 102, Mpls., 612-338-5811