Weisshouse

Blending Old School & New School Seamlessly

2012-02-05T19:54:00.000-05:00

The word eclectic by definition means: selecting what appears to be best in various doctrines, methods, or styles (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eclectic). Mixing various styles to create eclectic interiors can be tricky to the "untrained" eye. Most artists, interior designers, architecs etc. are born with an innate sense of scale and proportion. It's really a rush to find fabulous vintage furniture in pristine condition and well-worn pieces can be just as interesting in your home or office if thoughtfully chosen. Local retailers like Weisshouse and Anthropologie know how to mix the old with the new in a funky and original way. Personally, I love a nice balance of new, upholstered items like a great slip-covered sofa paired with a vintage chrome and glass cocktail table. You just can't go wrong if the proportion of the items are working well together with the scale of the space. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are well balanced when paired with a polished marble side table or a rosewood console table or buffet (mid-century modern, of course). In order to achieve the most successful ecclectic mix, you have to keep the following in mind:

1. Proportion: How much "visual weight" does the piece consume? Does your eye come to a dead stop at a certain piece or does that piece add to the harmony of the room?

2. Color & Finish: Does the piece compliment the other items in the room or does it fight against them? Obviously, various wood tones and grains can all work beautifully together unless one is too strong or too dated looking when compared to the other items.

3. Degree of Distress: "Well-worn" items are always a welcome addition and offer lots of character to your home. However, if the piece is really in bad shape and unstable, it can actually take away from
the overall look of the room and just look shabby and not chic at all. Choose vintage items wisely or weissly and have all of your friends asking "Where did you find that?!".

Check out the photos below for a few of my vintage favorites available at Weisshouse.

Vintage Desk with Formed Gold Washed Stainless Steel Side Panels

Item #H3410

Vintage Oak Console/Buffet with 3 Drawers and Side Door

Item #H3444

Vintage Desk with Book Shelf

Item #H3460

Vintage Danish Design Teak Coffee Table

Item #H3486

Vintage 6-Drawer Walnut Credenza/Buffet by Dillingham Espirit

Item #H3497

A Peak Inside a Stylish Life

2012-01-10T21:19:00.000-05:00

The home of Weisshouse designer, Stan Adamik and his partner, Jason Charney is a stunning tribute to modern, eclectic design and a feast for the eyes. This amazing urban home is located on Butler Street in the Blackbird Lofts in Lawrenceville. Stan chose white paint for most of the interior's walls and daringly also painted the polished concrete floors white as well. The well appointed furnishings truly stand out against the all-white backdrop. Their art work takes center stage and the whole loft acts like an art gallery for all of it's contents. The overall feel is warm, bright and inviting. According to Stan, "The white helps to unify the large, open spaces and creates an intimate gallery feel". Stan also feels that white walls help each piece stand out and look even more "special". Stan and Jason incorporated many of the more traditional pieces from their previous home (a Cape Cod-style) and mixed then in beautifully with some more contemporary pieces selected specifically for their loft.

GIVE Style 2011: A Weissguide to Holiday Gift Giving

2011-12-11T15:55:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again. Holiday decor is up and everyone is rushing around looking for perfect gifts for their loved ones and not-so-loved ones. For the second year in a row, Weisshouse is here to assist you in the search for the perfect presents. This year, we have hand-selected a few items that are truly one of a kind. Be the hero of the holiday season and give a gift of style from Weisshouse! Happy Holidays.

BELOW $ 125

Miner's Bottle $ 90.

BELOW $ 250

Vintage Ceramic Vase from Hungary $ 145.

Vintage Cast Iron Dog Boot Scraper $ 240.

Wood Cut Print by Virgil Cantini $ 225.

BELOW $ 500

Ink on Paper by Virgil Cantini $ 450.

Vintage Karma Sutra Ceramic Figures with Box $ 450.

Vintage Chuck-A-Luck Dice Cage with 3 Dice $ 350.

BELOW $ 1,000

Antique Wood Chest with Metal Details and Key $ 780.

Vintage Architectural Model of "Iconic" Beach House $ 575.

Vintage Hand-carved Stone Head from the Island of Java $ 850.

Lights, Camera Accessories!

2011-11-23T15:11:00.000-05:00

With the holidays just around the corner, we wanted to give you a little preview of some of the amazing vintage accessories currently available at Weisshouse and just right for gift gifting. Please stay tuned for next week’s blog that will feature all of our holiday gift giving ideas hand selected by the Weisshouse design team!

Vintage Cast Iron Dog Boot Scraper $ 240

Vintage Architectural Model of "Iconic" Beach House $ 575

Vintage Hand-carved Stone Head from the Island of Java $ 850

Mid Century Elongated Metal Nude $ 780

Antique Lidded Storage Vessel from China $ 850

Mid Century Carved Wood Nude Sculpture $ 745

Vintage Hand Carved Statute on Stand From the Island of Sumba $ 850

Spicy Italian!

2011-11-08T14:46:00.003-05:00

A recent article in the Home & Garden section of The New York Times features Mark Crumpacker and Tim Wildin, executives of Chipotle Mexican Grill. It also features one of our favorite lines of Italian-made furniture, B & B Italia. Read the full article at http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/03/garden/a-minimalist-loft-with-touches-of-chipotle-on-location.html?_r=1. Check out the fabulous photos below of a vintage Saarinen table (like the one featured), the Solo Sofa (B & B Italia) and the Apta Bed (Max Alto/B & B Italia). Stop into Weisshouse or visit our website to view more from B & B Italia!

Pillow Talk the Weissway

2011-11-02T14:31:00.000-04:00

Toss or accent pillows are the perfect quick fix or finishing touch for any room. Pillows can completely transform a piece of furniture like a sofa or your favorite cozy chair. Pillows are also a great way to express your personality. Do you have a favorite fabric that would make perfect pillows? The design team at Weisshouse can transform it for you! No matter what your personal style is, there are pillows for you. Check out some of our favorites below…

Rose Charcoal Pillow

Helix Ribbon Pillow

Flamestitch Pillow

Beatnik Stripe Pillow

Everyone Is Wild For Chevron Prints!

2011-10-19T13:28:00.000-04:00

Chevron prints are showing up everywhere. Missoni has long been famous for their iconic and eye catching versions that even appeared at Target this Fall and caused a complete craze. I love the idea of mixing in a chevron print in an unexpected way into a room. Chevron prints can be used in any traditional, transitional or contemporary interior in fun and exciting ways. Check out the photos below for a little inspiration of your own and stop into Weisshouse to speak with one of our talented designers about integrating a little chevron into your home or office...

Reupholstered chair

Robert Allen fabric

Photo courtesy of Design Sponge: Chevron printed wall using contact paper

Missoni Home throw

Missoni Home rug (various sizes available)

To Sit On It Or To Sit In It: That Is The Question

2011-10-06T12:29:00.001-04:00

Ask yourself this: Do I want to sit ON my sofa or do I want to sit IN my sofa? The answer to that question will be your guiding light when deciding what style of sofa you ACTUALLY want for your home. Sofas that are large, deep and soft are meant to be sat IN, not ON. Sofas that are less deep and have firmer cushions are meant to be sat ON and are great for offices, formal living rooms or for those of you who simply like a sofa that’s easier to get up and out of.

Now that you know whether you want to sit IN or ON your sofa, I have a few suggestions for sofas based on a few different aspects: Style, Comfort, and Affordability.

If you desire a high style sofa and don’t mind paying for it, B&B Italia’s classic Charles sofa is available as a sofa or a sectional. It also happens to be comfortable. This sofa is designed to sit low to the ground. In addition, it’s deep. It’s actually great for lounging on, watching television or curling up with a book or a nook.

Another stylish and comfortable alternative that is very affordable is the Jane Bi-Sectional. This sofa has been featured several times because it has a classic Mid-Century Modern style that is updated for today’s living spaces with stainless steel legs and chic and durable wool blend fabric. Sit on it or sit in it. It features a chaise lounge that can be “flipped” to either the right or the left side of the sofa. How perfect is that?

The Chester sofa, a Weisshouse client favorite is classic styling with modern proportions. This style is a sit ON it kind of sofa but it’s also incredibly comfortable and affordable. “Beautifully proportioned button-tufted version of that icon of English libraries. Pleated roll arm at the same height as the back; tight seat left untufted for comfort. Gracefully turned feet in front, all with ferrules.” Chester is available in several widths as well as a chair and ottoman.

One of my favorite design websites, Houzz.com who also has a really cool app for the iPhone has some fabulous tips of their own for selecting the perfect sofa:

1. Consider size first

2. Decide exactly how the sofa will be oriented

3. Determine which shape will suit the room best

4. Research upholstery materials. Which will be best for you?

5. Choose a style that complements your home

6. Pick a color: bright, printed, or neutral?

Charles Sofa

Jane Bi-Sectional Sofa

Chester Sofa

Betsy Daily: An Education In Design

2011-10-05T13:35:00.000-04:00

Weisshouse designer, Betsy Daily has been in the interior design field for over 25 years. She began her career as an educator and switched direction completely when she realized she was happier using her creativity and know-how in client’s homes and businesses.

I had the chance to sit down with Betsy a few weeks ago and discuss her personal style and tips that she has learned over the years. Betsy advises against seating arrangements that make conversations difficult. It’s best not to have too much wide open space or pieces “plastered” against walls and too far from one another. Simplicity is always the answer when it comes to planning spaces effectively and attractively. Create more intimate spaces with the tips above and keep “groupings” close together!
Betsy also feels that the right lighting is crucial in creating “moods” within certain spaces. She loves to enhance the feel of a room with creatively placed recessed lighting and ambient lighting as well.

Her personal style is less about what she wants and has much more to do with what the client wants. According to Betsy, “I would say my personal style really involves listening to the client(s)…I feel that everyone has their own personal style and tastes and sometimes clients just need a little reassurance and guidance.” Betsy enjoys integrating items that clients have some attachment to in order to reflect their personality into a space. Betsy reiterated that LISTENING is the best design advice that she can offer other designers. “I can only help to create the space…the clients have to live there!”

Enamelist, Sculptor, Educator and Now At Weisshouse

2011-09-20T21:01:00.001-04:00

Virgil Cantini (1919-2009) who received both local and national recognition for his works in enamel and steel was also a long term faculty member at The University of Pittsburgh. Cantini was originally a native Italian and attended Carnegie Tech (now Carnegie Mellon). Cantini went on to earn a master’s in fine arts at the University of Pittsburgh in 1948, and was granted an honorary doctorate in fine arts from Duquesne University in 1982.

A decades long resident of the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Cantini died on May 2, 2009 at the age of 90. Today, many of his large scale works are on display throughout the city of Pittsburgh and a multitude of his orginal art work is also available at Weisshouse. In 1953 he was named one of the “Hundred Leaders of Tomorrow” by Time Magazine. In 1956, the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts named Cantini the region’s Artist of the Year. By 1959, Cantini was considered among the most prominent contemporary enamelists, with his work included regularly in New York’s Museum of Contemporary Crafts exhibitions.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiqeGuZc_Pshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGFTujNPqlM

Virgil Cantini instructing a class at the University of Pittsburgh during the 1956-57 school year

Outdoor Steel Sculpture Fountain of Joy People

Ink on Paper by Virgil Cantini. 1970. $ 450

A History Lesson in Fabulous, Affordable Furniture

2011-09-05T16:53:00.000-04:00

Weisshouse has been around since 1943. One of Weisshouse's best selling, most budget friendly furniture lines, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams came along in 1989 at a time (much like now) when the economy was less than stable. Back then, MG+BW was known as The Mitchell Gold Co. According to their wonderful, truly user-friendly website (www.mgbwhome.com), "One of their earliest ideas, "Relaxed Design," was based on trends they saw in the apparel industry. Designing furniture Bob Williams would want in his own home - comfortable, classic, affordable - he dressed his pieces in relaxed slipcovers of pre-washed fabrics like denim, khaki and velvet. He also addressed the need for a less-intimidating shopping experience by limiting choices to avoid confusing consumers." The idea that design should be relaxed certainly paid off for MG+BW because sales have reached an excess of $100 million and the company has received a multitude of awards.

In addition, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams are honored to support grass-roots and national not-for-profits who champion for those less fortunate and individuals living with life-challenging illnesses. The company is proud to support groups such as the Human Rights Campaign, Empire State Pride Agenda, DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation for AIDS), Friends In Deed, ALFA (AIDS Leadership Foothills-area Alliance), Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and the Leukemia Society.

Weisshouse proudly and confidently sells Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture, lighting and accessories every day. Stop in our showroom all month long (now through October 10th) to save 25% on all MG+BW upholstery, 20% off case goods and 15% off lighting and accessories. This amazing sale only happens twice a year. Don't miss out!

Lofty Ideas cont... (The Photo Shoot)

2011-08-23T14:12:00.000-04:00

We wanted to share these great shots of Stacy Weiss' new loft located in Shadyside. For some great loft design tips straight from Stacy, read yesterday's blog...

Some Lofty Ideas

2011-08-22T15:23:00.000-04:00

In a city like Pittsburgh, there isn't much "new" construction. However, Pittsburgh certainly does have a plethora of really great, old buildings. New loft units are popping up left and right in trendy, up and coming neighborhoods like Lawrenceville and Garfield. For many people, especially people who were born and raised in the suburbs, the allure of city life and the availability of some really cool living spaces has made moving closer to the city more attractive than it was in the past.

Our very own, Stacy Weiss has recently moved from her amazing home in Squirrel Hill to a bright and open loft in Shadyside. Stacy shared some tips for designing her own loft that can be adapted to your space whether it's a loft, spacious apartment or a home with an open floor plan. "Take advantage of the ceiling height, hang art floor to ceiling and warm up your space with rugs." Stacy also said, "Just because it's a loft, does not mean that it has to be/look sparse."

For a little more design inspiration, check out one of our past blogs where we staged the Glass Lofts. It was featured on our website and in Pittsburgh Magazine. http://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/Pittsburgh-Magazine/July-2011/Glass-Lofts-in-Garfield/

Unique Bar Stools With a Mob Past

2011-08-10T19:31:00.000-04:00

Weisshouse is known for high end furniture, flooring, and accessories as well as unique, vintage one-of-a-kind items. Recently, we purchased four bar stools that once belonged to the infamous mobster Hoboken Joe Stassi.

In a post from http://www.sonnysmobsocialclub.com/mobblog.html, "Sonny" states, " A number of years ago, I had a good friend named Joe Stassi, who was known in mob circles as “Joe Rogers.” Who was Joe Rogers? Joe was like a grandfather who had been a feared killer in his early days, most notably for arranging the murder of Dutch Schultz on Luciano’s orders, who became the representative for the mob in Havana during its heyday. In his book about the mob in Cuba, “Havana Nocturne,” T. J. English writes about weekly mob summit meetings in Havana, “These meetings took place on Thursday or Friday at the Miramar home of Joe Stassi, the gravelly-voiced Mafioso…Stassi’s home was located on a winding, well-hidden road…not far from the site of Lansky’s highly anticipated Hotel Riviera…with Stassi presiding as a kind of go-between for the various parties in attendance…along with Meyer, and sometimes his brother, Jake, the participants included [Santo] Trafficante, the Cellini brothers…others in attendance were a collection of men…most with experience in the casino-gambling business – who filled out the lower ranks of the Havana mob.” Joe Rogers, was the ultimate insider…and Joe Rogers was my friend."

A Scott Redden Comes to Pittsburgh

2011-08-04T15:01:00.000-04:00

We are so excited to announce that we have an original Scott Redden oil painting at the showroom available for purchase (Yellow Truck II, 1999, oil on canvas, 60" x 64"). It is currently hanging in our showroom window at 324 S Highland Avenue for your viewing pleasure. Below, you will find Scott Redden's biography courtesy of Dillon Gallery located in Chelsea.

Scott Redden combines motifs of rolling pastures, voluminous clouds, verdant trees and homestead architecture, creating nostalgic paintings evocative of an earlier, simpler rural reality. Yet beneath the bucolic surface of the landscape settings exists an urban undertow (he has created the most of his paintings in New York City) that flavors the imagery. Distinguished by lone or cropped placement, the isolation and confinement of these forms contrast poignantly with the implied atmosphere of warmth and connectedness in his chosen subject. He effectively juxtaposes complimentary characteristics: past with present, cheer with melancholy, interconnectedness with disconnection, clarity with mystery. Redden’s paintings are conceived from minimal yet mindful sketches culled from photographic fragments, memories, and imagination, so that the inspiration of his pictorial imagery straddles truth and invention. Once his composition is established, the drawing is transferred to canvas by hand in sections at a time over a period of days or weeks. This tactical process ensures that each individual element receives the same attentive care as the overall composition, and enhances the forms with perfect puzzle-like correspondence with each other.
In Addition, Stacy Smith of the Zimmerli Museum states:

Redden's work is as much an exploration of the nature of painting as of natural environment and notions of place. Distinctive for unabashed and often inventive color, multiple points of interest, flat planes, and modified traditional imagery, Redden’s work engenders natural associations with folk painting. However, while it shares visual qualities with naïve art, it is in fact quite sophisticated. Exploring the way objects relate to each other abstractly, Redden expands on its representation in unique and imaginative ways. Mixing formal geometry with gestural brushstrokes, variations of scale and configuration with motif repetition, and simplified modeling with detail, he activates his personal iconography instilling the pictorial imagery with an atmosphere of stasis.

Yellow Truck II, 1999, oil on canvas, 60" x 64"

House Painting (yellow white), 1998, oil on canvas, 70" x 70"

House and Cloud, 1998, oil on canvas, 46" x 29"

From Down Under: Our Sidney Kitchen

2011-07-29T14:48:00.000-04:00

Down under Pittsburgh that is...
Our most fashion forward kitchen is Sidney. It is available in an infinite number of finish combinations as well as high gloss ebony hardwood veneer. Sidney has rounded off ends which invites you to travel around the kitchen. For those of you with young children, Sidney is both incredibly beautiful and highly functional thanks to it's design.

Weisshouse designer, Stan Adamik recently completed an entire home renovation in which Sidney was chosen as the perfect kitchen to suit the home and the home owners. This home, owned by Dolores Kara and her husband is located in Southpointe and was featured in one of our previous blogs during the construction phase.

Check out the stunning photos below for more great shots of this awe inspiring kitchen. Visit our showroom and speak with a Weisshouse designer for more information on renovating your very own kitchen.

What's Hot in The Kitchen

2011-07-18T12:48:00.000-04:00

If you love to entertain in your home, you know how difficult it can be when you don't have the right kitchen. It's wonderful having an island or peninsula to set food and drinks on for your guests. Since the kitchen is just the natural gathering place when you have a party, Weisshouse is here to give you a little food for thought when considering a re-model of the most popular room in your house.

I came across an interesting article on www.us.kohler.com that highlights some recent trends in kitchen design. A reoccurring theme across the board in traditional, transitional and modern kitchen design is a movement toward more natural, sustainable materials. This trend applies to all elements in the kitchen including flooring, cabinets, counter tops and back splashes. Many of today's consumers are electing to use sustainably harvested exotic hardwoods like walnut, mahogany, hemlock, cork and bamboo for flooring. All kitchens from Weisshouse are standard with a 6" aluminum toe kick. Cabinets are often a mix of hardwood veneer in wenge or walnut and lacquer in any array of earth tones (glossy or matte finish). We are seeing a move away from granite and toward quartz for counter tops. Quartz gives you the elegant look of natural stone without all of the maintenance. In addition, quartz manufacturers such as Caesar stone, Han stone, and Cambria are producing quartz tops that look solid from a distance. This is a rather attractive look for more modern kitchens. Equally popular choices for counter tops are solid surface options from Corian. Corian has a wide array of colors and patterns that range from solid to more natural stone looks. Alternatives to quartz and solid surface like Corian are also gaining popularity. Recycled glass, concrete and wood can also be very beautiful, natural choices.

Lighting task areas in your kitchen is crucial. Many people choose factory-installed under cabinet lighting in energy saving and long lasting LED models. Directional track lighting is also a great way to highlight work spaces and various architectural features in your kitchen. When clients who are interested in a kitchen from Weisshouse visit our showroom, we often advise them to select their appliances first. Once your appliances have been selected, a Weisshouse designer will visit your home or office and measure the space. Knowing the sizes and models of the desired appliances helps us determine the best layout for your new kitchen and enables us to properly determine how many cabinets and what cabinet sizes will best fit.

In larger kitchens, islands are a great place for an extra sink, microwave drawer or dishwasher. Islands also provide additional storage and seating for an impromptu gathering or a place to read the paper and sip coffee in the morning. If you don't have ample space for an island, Weisshouse can design a creative solution. Weisshouse kitchens can be designed with a pull-out "table" that can be used for dining or serving and is easily stowed away when not in use.

According to Kohler's article, "Designers say the apron-front sink is a popular choice for natural kitchens. The sink gives the kitchen a historical reference point, and is beautiful, durable and multi-functional. Stainless steel is a popular material for apron-front sinks...". Brian Gluckstein of Gluckstein Design Planning in Toronto states, "Plumbing fixtures have become the little jewels of the space. Soft faucet finishes, from antique brass to brushed nickel, are all the rage".

For more information on the various kitchen models that Weisshouse carries, please visit our website at www.weisshouse.com or read our past blog series that consists of our top five most popular kitchen models: Easy, City, Extra, Sidney and Aspen. Please view the photos below of completed kitchens by Weisshouse for some inspiration for your own kitchen.

Flora and Fauna as Decor

2011-07-11T14:05:00.000-04:00

Last Friday, I visited Pittsburgh's Phipps Conservatory (http://phipps.conservatory.org/). I was so inspired by all of the beautiful flowers and plants there. It was a like a walk through a perfect secret garden. Being around all of that beautiful color and greenery made me think about how as a designer, it is so crucial to pull the beauty of the outside inside.

There are countless ways to incorporate more nature into your home. Reclaimed wood and rustic wooden slab tables are an excellent and practical means for introducing more natural materials. Obviously, house plants and potted orchids are a lovely addition and also improve your indoor air quality. If you don't have a green thumb, wall covering in large scale floral patterns makes for an interesting backdrop in a dining room or as a focal wall in a bedroom. Visit http://www.studioprintworks.com/wallpaper.php for a little inspiration. In addition, art that features birds, insects, and other various creatures is also a great way to invite nature in. Brooklyn artist, Gavin Benjamin creates the most amazing pieces of art using an almost "Warhol-esque" method of repeating natural elements such as flower petals as well as modern still lifes. Visit http://gavinbenjamin.com/books/index.html or contact a Weisshouse sales person for more information on how to purchase an original Gavin Benjamin.

The photos below are some shots to inspire your inner "Mother Nature".

Vintage Karabagh Rug $ 1,850

Mixed Media on Paper, Benjamin $ 550 Framed

Fall in Love with Falling Water

2011-06-21T20:31:00.000-04:00

My first visit to Falling Water on Sunday, Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous and most recognizable building really left me with an appreciation for the architect and the realization that millions have been aware of for more than a century. He was a visionary and a genius. I was awe inspired by the integration of nature all through the residence that was once owned by the Kaufman family, known in Pittsburgh for Kaufman's Department Store. Falling Water was entrusted to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and now costs over 1 million dollars per year to maintain. Multitudes of architects from all over the world visit Falling Water annually.

The most impressive aspect of Falling Water for me was the interior detailing. I was really fascinated by Lloyd's use of lighting, how every window functioned and how every piece of furniture was placed and integrated within the home. It was also very interesting to learn from the tour guide that Frank Lloyd Wright's career was completely revitalized with the completion of Falling Water. In fact, he went on to design 400 buildings and 200 of those buildings conceived were actually built.

You don't have to be a Kaufman to own a piece of Frank Lloyd Wright furniture. Weisshouse is the exclusive retailer of Cassina, the only licensed manufacturer legally permitted to reproduce Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic furniture. Stop in the Weisshouse showroom to learn more about Cassina and the beautiful masterpieces that will fit perfectly in the decor of your home.

Frank Lloyd Wright

606 Barrel

608 Taliesin 2

617 S.C. Johnson Wax 1

623 Lewis Coffee Tables

619 Meyer May Desk

As Green As It Gets

2011-06-17T16:27:00.000-04:00

Weisshouse just welcomed a brand new line of carpet and completely natural carpet pad. The line includes three different styles of carpet that are adorably named "Soy Milk", "Rice Milk" and "Almond Milk". Each style has several colors and one style that is striped ("Almond Milk"). Not only is this line of carpet incredibly beautiful and durable, it's also good for the Earth. It's priced very well at about $ 8.50 per foot. In addition to the three styles of Earth-loving carpet, we now have two different types of carpet pad that are equally green. One pad is made completely of felted wool and the other is a rubber pad that consists of recycled tire crumb rubber and synthetic rubber. This carpet is wonderful for any room of the house and especially ideal for babies, children and anyone who has allergies or off-gassing sensitivities.

This new, natural carpet has been installed in the following locations...

Vancouver, BC – The Olympic Village "Millenium Water" condominium project, a LEED Platinum project.

Telluride, Colorado – A municipal housing project focused on green development installed this natural carpet in six of it's buildings.

Vancouver, BC – Cielo, a prominent high-end condominium project in the west end of Vancouver, installed natural carpet in condominium bedrooms.

Canadian Navy Ship – the navy has been using this natural carpet for its vessels for years due to wool's natural resistance to flames and smoke.

Sarah Richardson projects – our natural carpet has been selected for several of Sarah Richardson's (Canadian celebrity designer) projects.

In addition, many television, music, and sports celebrities have selected our natural carpet for their private homes, due to the quality, durability, and environmental sensitivity.

Stop in the showroom today to see "Soy Milk", "Rice Milk" and "Almond Milk" for yourself. Any of the talented Weisshouse designers can show you which style is best for your home.

"Soy Milk"

"Rice Milk"

"Almond Milk"

natural carpet pad

Saturday Sale

2011-06-16T12:54:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, June 18th, we are having a special one day only sale. All special orders and selected floor models are 10% off. Please print the "coupon" below and bring it with you to the showroom. We represent a vast array of incredible lines such as B&B Italia, Cassina, Bontempi Casa, Cisco Brothers, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and Bernhardt Interiors plus lots of vintage and one-of-a-kind originals! We also offer full service interior design services that include kitchen and bath design.

It's Dad's Special Day

2011-06-15T18:36:00.000-04:00

So...this Sunday is Father's Day. Dad's are difficult to shop for and often don't want their son's and daughters to even spend money on them. Well, with a little help from Weisshouse, you can get your dad a gift so great that THIS will be a Father's Day he'll always remember!

Dad's love all things manly and they love a great desk lamp to show off at the office. The Egle table lamp is perfect and priced at $ 740. The vintage aluminum industrial table lamp is great for dad's who like things a little more rustic ($ 295). How about a piece of Pittsburgh's history for your dad? We have a sleek, modern chrome and glass coffee table that began it's life at the US Steel Building in the 1950s ($1,550). I know my dad would love it! For the real outdoors-type dad, we are loving the Nakashima inspired teak bench that can used indoors or out ($ 3,990). Finally, any man in your life would admire this vintage foundry mold sculpture that costs $ 550.

Weisshouse Stages Friendship's Glass Lofts

2011-06-14T15:44:00.002-04:00

Weisshouse was recently asked to stage a unit in The Glass Lofts, a modern and vibrant green building in Pittsburgh's Friendship neighborhood for a photo shoot for Pittsburgh Magazine. Weisshouse designers, Ron Reinheimer and Stan Adamik teamed up to create a funky stylish feel that enlivened the space and complimented the architecture.

Ron Reinheimer provided some insight into the process that was staging this space...

"Approaching such a large empty space can seem a bit daunting at first.The challenge at the Glass Lofts was to turn an industrial environment into a warm place to call home. We started our color inspiration from the bright green color of the balcony wall, which is very visible inside the living space due to the two huge glass garage doors. The concrete floors were warmed up with beautiful rugs. The living room showcases a turquoise over-dyed rug from Turkey. It was a great anchor to define that space. The use of rugs in an open loft space is a great way to achieve the feel of different areas.The dining room is home to a hand-knotted Tufenkian Tibetan rug. It boasts many clear colors in a grid pattern. We also chose large graphic, colorful artwork to stand out against the industrial walls. You have to be very conscious of the scale of things when working with this type of space..THINK BIG! The sofa we chose is a large Italian-made sectional from Bontempi Casa. The sideboard in the dining space is extra tall and very appropriate for the scale of the space. It is an amazing vintage piece that looked great against the wooden wall behind it. We topped it off with a large colorful piece of artwork by Karl Mullen. We also selected a beautiful glass dining table by Cassina to insure a light and airy feel. The black Cherner chairs offer a very comfortable dining experience and only get better looking with age and wear. The playful piece of artwork over the sofa was created by local artist Jack Weiss. We pulled colors from it on the multi-colored striped pillows below it. We incorporated more glass with the coffee table in the living room in black (Calvin Klein Home). We placed a sculptural chair in vibrant apple green for a wow factor (Papilio from B&B Italia). It also has a very cool zipper up the back. The entire kitchen is all white and minimal. We gave it some personality with a collection of miner's bottles that are hand woven from detonator wire in many colors and intricate patterns. We also topped off the cabinets with an old colorful foundry mold. We wanted the balcony to feel like an extension of the interior space when the doors were up and we used the same color palette and made it even more fun with the pop-art styled flower table and bright green "S" chairs that can stay outside all year round. The bedroom space was split up to accommodate an office area. A modern Scribe desk from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is the focal point. It was paired with a white leather desk chair on wheels. For the bed we decided on a large, simple white slip-covered headboard. The bedside lamps are vintage...a bit quirky and unexpected according to Stan Adamik. For another shot of color we liked the patchwork area rug also from Turkey. We wanted a nice mix of masculine and feminine in this room".

A Relaxing Retreat in Shadyside

2011-06-09T15:53:00.001-04:00

When I was a young girl growing up in Pittsburgh, my dear aunts Ethel and El lived on Fifth Avenue in Shadyside. I would often spend weekends with them (apart from my siblings) shopping and dining at the best little lunch spots in the neighborhood. I remember asking my Aunt Ethel at least twenty years ago how she was able to sleep through all of the noise outside her window with all of the sirens, buses and college students traveling back and fourth to Carnegie Mellon and The University of Pittsburgh. She simply said, "I don't hear anything and when I spend time at your home (in the suburbs), I actually have difficulty falling asleep". I always found that to be so interesting and when Paul and Laura, two new clients visited the showroom a few months ago on a Saturday, I would again recollect those fond memories of mine as they now live a few blocks from where my aunts lived for decades.

Paul and Laura recently purchased and renovated a townhome on Woodland Road at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Fifth Avenue in Shadyside. They chose Weisshouse to provide furnishings for their new home and me, Lauren Carey to assist with selecting the perfect pieces to fit their lifestyles. I was so fortunate to meet this lovely couple. They were wonderful to work with and have the best views of Shadyside and Oakland from their enviable roof top deck.

Paul and Laura lead very busy lifestyles. I was thrilled to interview Laura after we installed most of the new furnishings. Paul and Laura both really responded to various pieces in the showroom upon their initial visit and I used that to narrow down my selections when coming up with a design scheme. In addition, they wanted a comfortable sofa and chairs that were deep but not too high as they didn't want to block the incredible views from their town home's floor to ceiling windows. I first presented Paul and Laura with a more muted color scheme that consisted of earth tones like brown, tan and taupe. Paul and Laura really thought the space plan had a nice flow and loved the pieces that I selected. However, Laura wanted a more exciting color palette. After puling yellows, greens and blues together for the second proposal, the three of us knew that we were looking at the right selections for the space and the clients, themselves. A wooden slab dining table and six turquoise dining chairs elevated the dining room to a sophisticated yet comfortable look. Adjacent to the dining area, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' Martin sofa and leather chairs complete the understated elegance with a waterfall glass table, stainless steel floor lamp and colorful wool rug. Read below for Laura's take on her experience working with Weisshouse.

LC: What inspired you and Paul to move to the new town house and what most attracted
you to the space?
LN: We wanted to purchase a home while mortgage rates were so low. In particular we
sought something near the University of Pittsburgh, that was low maintenance, lots
of outdoor space, comfortable for entertaining, and lots of light. The rooftop deck
is the most attractive feature!
LC: Where do you see yourself spending the most time in your home?
LN: On a deck or in front of a window working on a laptop.
LC: Why did you and Paul first come into Weisshouse and had you heard of Weisshouse
previous to your initial visit?
LN: I had visited Weisshouse several years ago when I first moved to Pittsburgh because
the window displays are so eye-catching.
We came back because we drive by the store frequently and spotted a sale sign in the
window as well as a natural wood dining table - reminding me that Weisshouse is the
best place in town to get furniture that is not cookie-cutter style.
LC: Have you ever worked with an interior designer in the past? If yes, please
explain. If no, please elaborate on your experience.
LN: No - I have a strong sense of likes and dislikes, so I never dared to work with a
designer. I'm glad that I tried it. The end result is a look that is much more
sophisticated than I could have achieved. Yet the feel is still comfortable. And I
was able to incorporate my favorite colors! Honestly - it saved us loads of time as
well.
LC: Finally, both you and Paul have such busy lives and careers. Can you briefly tell
me a little bit about that?
LN: We both run research laboratories at the University. It's like running a small
business with 10 employees and a million dollar budget. It takes constant vigilance
to keep any small business competitive and successful. The perks in our case are
making scientific discoveries, working towards improving human health and lots of
travel!

Kitchen: lucite chairs around a glass and metal pedestal table

Dining Room: Elmo side and Elmo arm chairs surround a wooden slab table on a stainless steel base

Living Room: Martin sofa, Martin leather chairs and a glass coffee table with client's own wool rug

Warm Days, Cool Nights...Sweet Dreams

2011-05-26T14:57:00.001-04:00

When purchasing new furniture for your home, you may often think about a cozy and stylish sofa, a comfortable chair to read in, perhaps...a new television. The last room that we often consider is the bedroom. A room that most people spend 1/3 of their life in is often considered an after thought time after time. The bedroom is a sanctuary. It is a place to lay your tired head and body after a long, stressful day at the office or a particularly tough work out with your trainer. Having said all of that, Weisshouse is here again to rescue you and your bedroom and ensure that both form and function are addressed equally in the bedroom of your dreams...literally. See above for bedroom design inspiration no matter what your budget allows complete with pieces hand picked by Weisshouse interior designers.

Weisshouse: Green Practices for Over 25 Years

2011-05-23T13:20:00.000-04:00

Weisshouse is and always has been on the cutting edge of what's hot in terms of home and office furnishings. However, it is not as widely known that Weisshouse has also been "green" for the entire time it has been a company (nearly 60 years). Even when Weisshouse was named "Modern Curtain and Rug", Jack Weiss was selling and installing 100% wool carpet. Not only does Weisshouse continue to sell the best wool carpet in the industry, they also sell "green" synthetic alternatives as well.

Weisshouse has always adapted to new technology and trends in terms of carpet. However, for 25 years, they have refused to sell and install foam carpet pad. Weisshouse only sells and installs fiber pad. Fiber pad is far superior to foam pad for multiple reasons that include durability and it's impact on the environment and air quality. Last week, The New York Times featured an article outlining the various dangers inherent and associated with foam carpet pad. Please click on this link to view the article in it's entirety: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/19/garden/tests-on-carpet-padding-show-toxins.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=Raising%20Concerns%20About%20Chemicals%20in%20recycled%20carpet%20padding&st=cse

Sadly, most local retailers only install foam carpet pad. Rest assured that when you purchase carpet from Weisshouse, we will never install toxic foam carpet pad. In fact, Jack Weiss shared a story for us that is very interesting...

For the past 25 years, Jack Weiss, founder of Weisshouse has preached the importance of using fiber pad because it does not have toxic fire retardant chemicals like it's foam alternative.

Jack tells the story of a prisoner who set fire to his cell which was lined with foam carpet padding. The guards rescued him but 13 other prisoners died because of the lethal gases from the fire that were carried through the air duct system*

A LIFE Magazine "Dream House" Realized in Pittsburgh

2011-05-13T15:10:00.000-04:00

"In 1986, LIFE Magazine invited six well known architects to design a 'Dream House', the plans for which would be available to anyone who wished to build them and one of whom was Hugh Newell Jacobsen".

This "Dream House" is located at 2975 Beechwood Boulevard in Squirrel Hill and overlooks Frick Park. The view from Lou and Amy Weiss' (home owners) backyard is second to none. It may even be one of the best views in Pittsburgh. This home is an architectural delight and it's on the way to becoming LEED Platinum Certified. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the standard for earth-friendly construction. The main emphasis is always focused on and around energy efficiency.

The site of this home is a former brownfield slag dump. When the lower Hill District was demolished to build the Civic Area, the debris was dumped on the current site of this home. Special excavation was necessary to prepare the land for this home.

Just to name a few of the green features of this house...

1. Follansbee Steel provided the standing seam steel roof. The roof is recycled and recyclable. It reduces heat absorption and should last 100 years.

2. Bayer Material Service provided open and closed cell spray foam insulation allowing the home to be sealed and in turn, producing very low heating and cooling costs. There is no roof vent but fresh air is brought into the home at a rate of 3,000 cfm.

3. All of the rainwater is harvested that falls on the roof into a river rock cistern, which is then pumped into the house for use in the home's toilets, hoses and drip irrigation.

4. The site's windmill provides power (through storage batteries) for exterior lighting and the outdoor water feature.

Furniture....

Almost every piece of furniture inside the home is from Weisshouse. Lines featured are Cassina, B&B Italia, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and Artemide Lighting.

The kitchens (first and basement level), bathroom and closet cabinets are also from Weisshouse. The cabinetry is from Weisshouse's Modulo Cucine line in CITY (refer to past blogs for more details).

It was truly a pleasure to spend three days at this incredible home. I must agree with both Lou and Amy, being in this house makes you feel like you are on vacation every day.

living room (MET sofas)

dining room (Modulo Cucine wall-hung buffet)

view from backyard

water feature

windmill

swing

exterior and raised bed vegetable garden

kitchen (Modulo Cucine)

butler's pantry

powder room

Casual and Easy: An Interview with Weiss Designer, Ron Reinheimer

2011-04-29T15:23:00.000-04:00

Many people know Ron Reinheimer from his many appearances on KDKA's morning show, "Pittsburgh Today Live". Ron has been in the design business for two decades creating beautiful, easy-to-live-in spaces. Working with Ron is like working with your best friend who has an incredible knowledge of design. Ron really knows how to transform a space in a way that most people could have never dreamed up on their own. Ron's relaxed nature and great wit create a really unique rapport with all of his clients. It's not unusual to spot Ron at the newest, hot restaurant in Pittsburgh with one or two of his clients. I interviewed Ron about his latest project in Kennedy Township, an early 1970s era, split level home occupied by a married couple who are both teachers.

L: Ron, tell me how and when you met your clients, the Zitelli's.

R: I actually met them about 5 years ago. They popped into the showroom looking for area rugs. We ended up choosing 3 Soumaks. One was for their entry, one for the living room and one for the kitchen (a runner). Also, we chose a really unique, tribal Kilim rug for their lower level family room. About two years later, they came in the showroom again looking to re-design their home office.

L: What pieces did you choose for their home office and what was the overall feel and look chosen for the space?
R: I chose to use really warm colors...ambers, reds, and terracottas and dark, wenge wood. I selected the "Scribe" desk from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. Also from Mitchell Gold, the "Norton" chair and ottoman were used as well as a Ralph Lauren pharmacy lamp. The overall feel was clean and welcoming...a cozy place to read a book and grade papers.
L: I can only assume that since the home office turned out so well that you were their go-to guy for their next project, their living room?
R: Well, it has been about two years since I completed the design for the home office and the Zitelli's asked that I come up with a fresh, new design scheme for their living room based around the colors of the rug that I selected for them 5 years prior. The rug was a great jumping off point for this room and I was excited to work with them again. They entertain often and asked that I really maximize the seating capacity in a creative and appealing way. The color scheme for the living room is a little cooler but still maintains the look and feel of the home office. I ended up selecting a Mitchell Gold sectional (Alex), Mitchell Gold's "Duncan" bench in peacock leather, 2 Bernhardt Interiors swivel chairs, 2 river rock side tables from Bernhardt Interiors and a beautiful, copper cocktail table (also from Bernhardt). All of the furniture is full of color in calming navy, aqua, apple green and gray accented with warm and dark, wenge wood combined with a pair of bone "Marilyn" lamps and soft, neutral wall color keeping the living room consistent with the rest of the first floor.
L: Is there anything else that you wish to add about this project or the design process in general?
R: The Zitelli's are always a pleasure to work with. They are open to suggestions which really helps to move the design process along smoothly. As far as working with a designer, I find that it really helps people avoid expensive mistakes and saves a lot of time. When working with a designer for the first time, its great if you (client) have a direction that you wish to head in and have an idea of the overall "look" that you want to achieve. My advice is to invest in great rugs and pieces of art that can be used again and again no matter what style of furniture you purchase over the years. Sofas and chairs come and go, but, investment pieces such as handmade rugs and art are around forever.*

Photos (top to bottom): 1. Ron Reinheimer on the set of "Pittsburgh Today Live" 2. Scribe Desk 3. Norton Chair 4. Alex Sofa 5. Soriano Table 6. River Rock Table 7. Marilyn Lamp

Chic and Intimate: Install Update with Photos!

2011-04-29T12:15:00.000-04:00

Last week, I had the opportunity to tour the Kara residence with Weisshouse interior designer, Stan Adamik (featured in last week's blog). It was a busy, bustling state of affairs at ever turn. A lot of exciting progress has been made. The kitchen cabinets were being installed and additional lighting was being added. See the photos below and the video (above) for a glimpse into this exciting installation.

Chic and Intimate: An interview with Weiss Designer, Stan Adamik

2011-04-14T15:16:00.000-04:00

Fresh off the recent buzz of of his Whirl at Home magazine cover and editorial, interior designer, Stan Adamik is already on the verge of another interior masterpiece in Southpointe. I sat down with Stan this week and asked him a few questions about this new project and the benefits of working with a Weisshouse designer.
L: Stan, when and where did you meet your client, Dolores Kara?
S: I met Dolores in the showroom on a Saturday. She was interested in having her home completely re-done and had very specific tastes and knew exactly what she wanted.
L: Exactly what was it that she wanted and how were you able to interpret that into a complete design plan for her?
S: She wanted to transform her Southpointe patio home into a NYC style loft. She requested that everything be black and white and very graphic. I was able to work directly with the contractor and made several structural changes including a new, modern stainless steel stair case like the one in our showroom. We also updated the electrical system among various other changes.
L: You selected a rather fashion forward, curvaceous kitchen for your client from Modulo Cucine. What was the inspiration for this and what kitchen model was chosen?
S: For Dolores, I chose the Sydney kitchen. She loved the curved lines and the fact that it is unlike any other kitchen that she has seen. This kitchen also has a design feature that makes the counter top appear to be floating.
L: How did you take this open floor plan with vaulted ceilings and turn it into an intimate living space?
S: Using wool, wall to wall carpet in the living spaces, I was able to really soften the environment. In addition, we installed a soft gray engineered wood plank ceiling in the master bedroom coupled with a four poster bed from B&B Italia which really brought your eye down and into the space.
L: What style of furniture was used in the home and how much time did you spend planning?
S: Iconic, investment pieces were used from Cassina and B&B Italia including chairs designed by Le Corbusier. I also designed walk-in and free standing Italian wardrobes in a similar style to the kitchen cabinetry. I spent about 50 hours a week for 4 weeks planning the entire home from conceptual drawings, furniture and finish selections to the final design proposal.
L:Thanks, Stan. Now...I'd like to finish up by asking a few general questions about what it's really like to work with a designer and what clients should be prepared for before seeking out a designer.
S: Well, working with a designer helps to guide you (client) through the design process by creating a plan and inevitably providing an outcome that makes you happy and satisfied. Working with a designer can also help to prevent costly mistakes.
L: When should someone seek a design professional? In what stage of a project is best?
S: You should seek a designer ASAP. In other words, it is best to begin working with a designer in the very beginning...in the planning stages of the project. Often times, people come into Weisshouse after they have already made some very important decisions (flooring, paint color, etc.). and are looking to a designer to help them pull everything together.
L: How should a prospective client prepare for their first meeting with you or any designer?
S: The client should put images together from magazines or things they have seen online that they like. It doesn't have to be fancy. In fact, Dolores Kara had a box of over 100 images when we met to discuss the design concept. It is important to do a little research on your own, prior to meeting a designer. Images really help convey messages that are often lost in words. It helps the whole process go along more smoothly. Also, it's very important to have a budget in mind and don't let the furnishings be an after thought. Often, clients have already allocated so much money for construction costs that little is left for furniture. It really is the furnishings that help pull everything together and create the overall feel of the space.
L: How does Weisshouse charge for it's design services?
S: Weisshouse's design services are complimentary. However, if there is a large project where many hours will be spent planning and managing, a management fee may be assigned based on the scope of the project on a case by case basis.
L: Finally, is there anything else that you would like prospective clients to know in regard to working with an interior designer?
S: Yes, it really helps to work with clients who are open and willing to hear and see suggestions. At first, they may not have thought of such suggestions. However, more often than not, ultimately they end up loving the ideas. The reason people seek interior designers to help them is because they cannot do it themselves and we are, in fact, professionals who have an infinite knowledge of furnishings and are not only trained in the history of furniture, but are also in the know in terms of everything new that is available for interiors.
*

Photos (top to bottom): 1. Stan Adamik 2. Stairs-Before 3. Stairs-After 4. Powder Room-Before 5. Powder Room-After

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Sale Just In Time For Spring Cleaning

2011-04-06T19:01:00.000-04:00

Spring has arrived. Unfortunately, Pittsburgh weather just can't make it's mind up. One day it's sunny and 70 degrees and then, the following morning there is a dusting of snow on the ground. Regardless, Spring cleaning is surely underway in your home. It is a great time to either have you blinds cleaned or replaced and carpet cleaned or replaced as well. It's also the perfect time to add a fresh piece of furniture into the mix. A great, new pair of chairs will really brighten a living room and breathe new life into your current design layout. A new sofa can totally transform a room in an instant. As always, Weisshouse is here to help you make these important decisions. Our complimentary design services are available in home or stop in the showroom to sit in your next favorite piece of furniture. April is upon us and so is the famous semi-annual Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams sale. All furniture, lighting, accessories and rugs are 25% off!!! That's right, the already budget-friendly MG+BW is now even more affordable. The sale is running now through May 8th and includes ANY special orders. Basically, you can have the sofa of your dreams, in the perfect fabric or leather with wood legs in the finish of your choice in 4 weeks!
What makes MG+BW one of Pittsburgh and Weisshouse's favorite furniture manufacturers? The answer is in the construction, durability, fabulous value and amazing selection of styles. MG+BW can suit any taste from very traditional to modern minimalist. Check out some of our favorite styles below hand picked by the
Weisshouse design team.
Photos: 1. Elliot Chair 2. Major Chair 3. Kennedy Sofa 4. Scribe Desk 5. Carter Wing Chair 6. Aiden Leather Chair

The Sex and the City Look for Less

2011-03-31T17:47:00.003-04:00

The last five blogs have been centered around creating a unique kitchen that fits perfectly with your style and the style of your home. Well, in our opinion, no one is or ever will be more stylish than the gals and guys of Sex and the City. For six glorious seasons, one great movie and one not-so-great movie (sorry), we watched Carrie trotting through the streets of the Big Apple in what are now iconic heals and couture. Equally fabulous were the homes of these fashion forward characters. Miranda and Carrie lived in quaint, understated style while Samantha and Charlotte took elegance to new levels with their over the top styles in two very different ways. Sadly, Sex and the City is gone, but it's style lives on and can be achieved with the right furniture and the perfect lighting and accessories.
The talented designers at Weisshouse can show you some key pieces that will transform your space in an instant and you don't need to spend "Big" money to do it. At Weisshouse, you will often hear our designers say, "First, you have to start with a great rug". The best place to begin when re-designing a space is from the ground up. You may even already own a beautiful wool rug that has colors to pull from when deciding on the best pieces to complement the room. Spaces that work best are those that have an ideal mix of push and pull. A modern, all glass coffee table works well with either lacquered side tables or rustic, vintage ones with clean lines. An antique rug is great under a contemporary sofa with a chaise attached. Mixing more masculine elements with feminine pieces also achieves good balance in a room. For instance, in the movie Sex and the City 2, Carrie and Big's kitchen was ultra Italian modern complete with teak and white lacquered cabinets (like our Extra kitchen model). However, their table and chairs are classic Danish Modern. Another useful tip is to invest money in items such as sofas and lounge chairs that will last. Be sure sure to choose mostly solid colored fabric that is also neutral in color. This way, you won't tire of those pieces and you can update your look with new lamps, art or throw pillows. It's just like the LBD or LBS (little black dress/suit). For your bedroom, also choose muted, relaxing colors that sooth like Carrie and Big did (also Sex 2) in their boudoir. A tufted headboard covered in flax colored linen is the ideal nest for a restful night of sleep. Don't be too fussy with your bedding either. A million pillows are too much work in the am, especially when you have to hit the snooze button three times because you had too many cosmopolitans the night before. Fresh white linens and a white duvet cover are beautiful when you add an interesting throw or a couple of colorful pillows into the mix. Check out the suggestions below for the perfect Sex and the City look. Oh, by the way...all Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories are 25% off now until May 8th. Stop by Weisshouse and check out the MG+BW "Luc" sofa from Miranda's apartment on the series!

Saving the Glass for Last

2011-03-21T11:55:00.003-04:00

This is the final installment of Weisshouse Kitchens 101. It's week 5 and this week we are discussing our ASPEN kitchen, an all glass dream of a kitchen. ASPEN is beyond jaw dropping. It is the epitome of high style and even higher function. ASPEN is ALL glass or 3mm Carrera marble in white or black behind glass. The interior frame is constructed of aluminum. ASPEN can be any color glass you imagine as it is lacquered on the back. In addition to kitchens, ASPEN is tranquil in a bathroom or closet. Spend an hour or an afternoon exploring ASPEN with a Weisshouse designer this week.

Of course, the final installment calls for the final course....Dessert!

Individual Lemon Pudding Cakes courtesy of Williams Sonoma recipes

For this recipe, the egg whites should be whipped just until they form soft peaks that slump to one side when the beaters are lifted. To make a meringue, the egg whites need to be whipped longer, until they form stiff peaks that will stand upright. The eggs should still appear moist and satiny and not grainy—that is a sign of overwhipping.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
3 eggs, separated
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
1 1/3 cups milk
Directions:
Preheat an oven to 350°F. Place eight 1/2-cup ramekins in a large baking dish and pour in water to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins. In a small bowl, stir together the flour and salt. In a separate nonreactive bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of the sugar on medium speed until pale and thick, about 3 minutes. Stir in the flour mixture and beat until very thick, 2 minutes more. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice and milk. Using an electric mixer on high speed, whip the egg whites until foamy. Sprinkle in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and whip until soft peaks form when the beaters are lifted. Using a silicone spatula, stir one-fourth of the egg whites into the lemon mixture. Gently fold in the rest just until no streaks of egg white are visible. Divide the mixture evenly among the ramekins. Bake until the centers are firm to the touch and the edges pull away slightly from the sides of the ramekins, 40 to 45 minutes. Remove from the oven but leave the ramekins in the water bath for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve the pudding cakes warm or at room temperature straight from the ramekins. Serves 8.

Gracious Curves...It Must Be Sidney

2011-03-16T17:46:00.008-04:00

Week 4 of Weisshouse Kitchens Ed. is upon us. This week, the lovely and curvacious SIDNEY kitchen is our feature. Words cannot describe the exquisite lines and finishes that SIDNEY consists of. But, since this a blog, I will try my best in words to do only what a photo or the "real thing" can truly accomplish. SIDNEY is available in the following finishes: Italian Walnut, Wenge, Glossy Zebrano Wood and Stainless Steel (stunning). In addition, just like CITY and EXTRA, SIDNEY can also be in any laquer finish whether you choose high gloss or matte! SIDNEY has an extra thick door measuring 1.1" for a substantial, yet, elegant appeal. SIDNEY has no handles and instead, uses a smooth aluminum channel for means of opening doors and drawers. Ask a Weisshouse designer for more information on SIDNEY and feel free to fall in love.

Because SIDNEY is such a show stopper, I have selected a recipe that will really impress guests at your next dinner party almost as much as they'll be impressed by a Weisshouse kitchen. Below you'll find a rich and savory recipe for Seafood Gratin courtesy of 2006, Barefoot Contessa at Home (Ina Garten of The Food Network).

Ingredients
For the sauce:
1 cup seafood stock or clam juice
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons good white wine, such as Chablis, divided
3 tablespoons tomato puree
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut in half crosswise
8 ounces raw halibut, cut into1-inch chunks
8 ounces cooked lobster meat, cut into 1-inch chunks
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
3 cups julienned leeks, white and light green parts (2 large)
1 1/2 cups julienned carrots (3 carrots)
1 cup panko (Japanese dried bread crumbs)
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon leaves
1 tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place 4 individual gratin dishes on sheet pans. (If recipe is doubled serve it in a 14 by 9 1/4-inch oval gratin dish.)
For the sauce:
Combine the stock, cream, 1/2 cup of the wine, the tomato puree, and saffron in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and add the shrimp. After 3 minutes, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp to a bowl. Add the halibut to the stock for 3 minutes, until just cooked through, and remove to the same bowl. Add the cooked lobster to the bowl.
Continue to cook the sauce until reduced by half, about 12 minutes. Mash 1 tablespoon of the butter together with the flour. Whisk the butter mixture into the sauce along with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a medium saute pan. Add the leeks and carrots and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of wine, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, until tender. Set aside.
Combine the panko, Parmesan, parsley, tarragon, and garlic. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and mix it into the crumbs until they're moistened.
Divide the seafood among the 4 gratin dishes. Strew the vegetables on top of each dish. Pour the sauce equally over the seafood and vegetables and spoon the crumbs evenly on top. Bake for 20 minutes, until the top is browned and the sauce is bubbly. Serve hot!

EXTRA, EXTRA Read All About It!

2011-03-07T15:05:00.006-05:00

This week, we will be exploring the "EXTRA" kitchen. EXTRA is installed in our showroom window in Wenge and high gloss lacquer in Taupe. This stunning combination works beautifully in our showroom and just happens to be the most popular kitchen style due to it's effortlessly chic integrated handle. The integrated handle is always standard, no handles are used with the EXTRA kitchen. EXTRA is elegant in all white high gloss finish and classic in Wenge as well. All black high gloss is simply jaw dropping. In addition to Wenge, Oak and Teak can also be used. Any high gloss lacquer or matte lacquer can be applied to suit your personal taste and the colors that work best in your home. EXTRA is truly extra amazing with it's 1.1" thick door. Stop in our showroom to explore EXTRA and have a Weisskrispie Treat chocolate bar. We are sure you will love this kitchen and our chocolate. We do.

This week's recipe (the third course) is an apetizer courtesy of Whole Foods Market. Enjoy Buffalo Mozzarella with Balsamic Glazed Plums, Pine Nuts and Mint!

Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
1 large ball buffalo or cow's milk fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds 4 ripe plums, pitted and quartered 1 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted 1 splash olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste
Method
Put vinegar in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Adjust heat to low and simmer until it is reduced nearly three-quarters in volume and thickened to a syrup. About 15 minutes. Add plums to syrup turning gently to coat and continue to cook for another 4-7 minutes more. Turn off heat and let cool. Meanwhile assemble mozzarella slices on platter, allowing to overlap slightly and season with salt and pepper to taste. With a fork, remove plums from syrup and place atop cheese, then top with the remaining syrup, pine nuts and mint. Drizzle with olive oil and serve.

Salad and the CITY

2011-02-28T12:05:00.005-05:00

So it's week 2 of Weisshouse Kitchens 101. This week, I will be discussing the "City" collection. City differs from Easy (last week's kitchen) in that it is not comprised of any engineered wood. City has an oak core and solid oak veneer available in a multitude of finishes including White, Taupe, Anthracite, Black and Red that have a visible wood grain. City is perfect for more transitional interiors. In addition to the five finishes above, City can also be Natural Oak or Wenge as well as any lacquer color (matte or high gloss). The City door is 2mm thick and can be outfitted with either an aluminum channel or any metal hardware of your choosing. City can also be made with matching wood handles in any of the five City-exclusive finishes. Stop in our showroom to see a City cabinet door that would suit Carrie's West Village walk-up, Samantha's Meat Packing District loft, Charlotte's Park Avenue dream, Miranda's Brooklyn townhouse, or Your very own nest perfectly!

This week's recipe (the second course) is Roasted Beet Salad with Blue Cheese inspired by a recent trip to E2 (E squared) in Highland Park.

Ingredients
For the salad:
3 medium yellow beets (about 1 pound), stems trimmed off
3 medium red beets (about 1 pound), stems trimmed off
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cups baby leaf spinach
1/4 pound whole piece blue cheese (frozen)
Toasted almonds
For the dressing:
3 cups tangerine juice, or orange juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch salt and pepper
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the beets in a baking pan, drizzle with the oil, and season with salt. Cover with foil. Bake for about 1 hour, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
While the beets are roasting, make the dressing:
In a 1-quart non-reactive saucepan, over medium-high heat, reduce the tangerine juice to about 3/4 cup. Add the lemon juice. Remove from the heat and strain with a fine sieve.
Return to the saucepan; add lemon juice, salt and pepper. Over medium heat, reduce until the mixture bubbles and has a syrup-like consistency. You should have about 1/4 cup. Remove from the heat and strain again. Let cool to room temperature. Add the olive oil. Set aside. (Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 1 1/2 weeks.)
When cool enough to handle, peel the beets, and thinly slice them into rounds. Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with the dressing. In a large bowl, toss the spinach with the remaining dressing and place spinach on top of beets in the center of the platter.
Remove the wedge of blue cheese from the freezer. Using a micro plane grater, grate the desired amount over the salad. Garnish with toasted almonds.

Recipe courtesy Michael Chiarello from http://www.foodnetwork.com/

As "EASY" as 1, 2, Eat!

2011-02-21T15:52:00.009-05:00

Italian kitchens are known for being both beautiful and highly functional. Weisshouse proudly sells Modulo Cucine kitchens. You may have seen our beautiful model kitchen in the showroom window while walking down Highland Avenue. If not, please stop by and ask one of the talented designers on staff for more information. Modulo Cucine is the exclusive importer and distributor in North America for Doimo Cucine SPA. Doimo has been in business in Italy for more than 50 years. They are 100% green and produce 0% formaldehyde off gassing. In addition, they meet the Japanese Green Standard and are a LEED compliant product. All of the glue, paint and lacquer are H2O based and non-toxic. For the next 5 weeks, I'll be discussing each of the 5 models that Weisshouse features along with 5 fabulous recipes that you can make in your new kitchen from Weisshouse.

The first model is the EASY kitchen. EASY is the most budget friendly of all of the models. Easy is an engineered wood product that consists of four great wood finishes: White Oak, Beige Oak, Grey Oak and Wenge. EASY B kitchen finishes can be combined with EASY finishes for a one-of-a-kind look and are available in the following Polymeric (looks just like high gloss lacquer) finishes: White, Ivory, Black and Red. Polymeric is a plastic-like material that is actually stretched over the cabinet door. It is seamless, waterproof and can be cleaned with your favorite household cleaning spray. For those of you with children or pets, EASY is easy. Stop by Weisshouse to see EASY. It's our working kitchen for employees!

Now for the recipe...from Thomas Keller, Chef, The French Laundry, Yountville, California:
Artichoke Soup with Croutons
In the kitchen at The French Laundry in California's Napa Valley, this soup is pureed and then passed through a chinois to produce a velvety texture.
Ingredients:
1 cup white wine
1 cup olive oil, plus more for cooking
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
Juice of 2 lemons
8 large artichokes
2 carrots, sliced
2 onions, sliced
2 shallots, sliced
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
Salt, to taste
Extra-virgin olive oil for garnish
Toasted croutons for garnish
Directions:
In a bowl, combine the wine, the 1 cup olive oil, the stock and lemon juice. Working with 1 artichoke at a time, trim off the tough green outer leaves to expose the tender yellow leaves. Using a paring knife, trim off about 1 inch from the top until the center is visible. Cut away the stem and dark green exterior to expose the pale yellow core. Cut the artichoke in half lengthwise and, with a teaspoon, scoop out the furry choke from the center and add the artichoke halves to the bowl.In a large soup pot over medium heat, warm enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pot. Add the carrots, onions, shallots and garlic and saute, stirring occasionally, without browning, until tender, 5 to 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the artichokes from the liquid and add them to the pot with the vegetables. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into the soup pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the artichokes are tender when pierced with a fork, 18 to 20 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the artichokes to a clean soup pot and strain the cooking liquid into the pot; discard the solids. Using a stick blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, in a blender or food processor, puree the soup in batches until smooth and return the soup to the pot. Stir in the cream and season with salt. Ladle the soup into warmed individual bowls. Garnish each serving with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 or 3 croutons. Serves 4.

B&B Italia Has A Lot to Celebrate

2011-02-21T15:12:00.002-05:00

Weisshouse has been the exclusive retailer of B&B Italia furniture in Pittsburgh for 13 years. B&B is iconic and has been known in the interior design industry for timeless, stylish furniture since 1966. This year, B&B and Weisshouse celebrate the 1oth anniversary of the Vol au Vent chair. Vol au Vent designed by Mario Bellini in 2001 has become a classic standard in dining rooms and kitchens the world over. Vol au Vent is sleek and light in both the arm chair and side chair versions. Check out the photo below to see and fall in love with the chair too!

Surface, a new collection of small, low tables designed by Vincent Duysen are available in three sizes and are inspired by Piet Mondrian. In addition, the "Best of the Year Award" has honored B&B's Bend Sofa in the residential seating category. Bend is designed by Patricia Urquiola and can be seen below.

Finally, B&B Italia's website is now available for the IPad at http://www.bebitalia.com/. Happy surfing:) Stop by Weisshouse's showroom on Highland Avenue in Shadyside to see many of B&B's best sellers!

Everything Old is New Again

2011-01-27T14:28:00.011-05:00

If you have lived on this earth for at least two decades, you are aware that trends always make their way back around for a second or third or fourth appearance. Bell bottom jeans, shoulder pads, Formica counter tops, wall paper, wall-to-wall carpet and so on have all been around the block and back again. The great thing about a trend returning is that usually, when it comes back, it's better than ever. This theory has never been more accurate in the world of knitting and crochet. Most people (myself included) do not know the difference between the two crafts and generally use the words, "knit" and "crochet" interchangeably. According to hobbyride.com, "Both methods can be used to produce articles of clothing, house wares like blankets or table cloths, and accessories like bags or caps, in general crochet work is lighter, being crafted of thread, while knitting tends to produce heavier articles like knitted sweaters for winter. Both yarns and threads come in various grades and weights that are similar for given applications. For instance crochet thread used to produce coverlets known as afghans are roughly equivalent in size to a regular knitting yarn and the two may be interchanged." Thanks to all of these crafty crafters and websites that highlight both crochet and knit work such as Etsy, the inter sanctum of crochet and knitting has been throttled into mainstream design and home decor. Very high end retailers and webtailers sell crochet items that can embellish the most beautifully designed interiors. Check out the photos below of some great crochet and knit items available at Weisshouse. Also, for a little more inspiration, visit http://www.casasugar.com/Cool-Modern-Crochet-Home-13253647.

Photos: 1."knit" rubber bowl (white) $ 350 2. "knit" style outdoor chair $ 439 ea. 3. needlepoint leopard pillow $ 225 4. "knit" rubber bowl (blue) $ 350 5. "knit" pillows $ 240 ea. 6. large crochet pillow $ 375, medium crochet pillow $ 340

Advice for Hanging Art and Photos in Your Home

2011-01-14T13:27:00.002-05:00

Methods for hanging art and photos of any type are very similar to displaying other various collections within your home. Last week, with Ron Reinheimer's help, I discussed how collections look best when grouped together. This advise also works well for hanging art. Photos, interesting frames and works of art shouldn't be scattered throughout your home without any sense of ryme or reason. Creating a small "gallery" wall in your home is the most interesting way to hang random pieces. Break up large scale paintings or photos with smaller to medium scale items. It's also appealing when you hang various types of frames together. For instance, metal and wooden frames of any finish look interesting and create a more unique look when grouped together. Incorporating mirrors (antique or new) is a great way to break up a lot of images and add even more dimension to the wall. "Gallery" walls can be created anywhere in your home. A large foyer is the perfect place to display art and photos this way as it instantly introduces you and your personality to guests when they first enter your home. Your home office or bedroom is an ideal place to creatively display family photos and more personal pieces of art. I love to combine flea market pieces of art or old photos and frames with crisp black and white images of family and friends. See the photos below for some examples of how a "gallery" wall can work in your home too.

Personalizing Your Home With Unique Collections

2011-01-08T10:25:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, our very own, Ron Reinheimer was featured again on Pittsburgh Today Live where he discussed various collections. Ron began the segment with some insight on how to collect and what types of items make for successful and eye catching collections. Collections of any type, whether it be a group of antique buttons creatively displayed in glass spheres or vintage white pottery used as an art installation on a large wall of your home help to bring more of your personality in your space and add meaning and inspiration to your life. Ron also feels that it is important to group like items together to create more of an impact visually. Equally important is to always edit your collection when you feel that you have too many like items. Perhaps, you are on the hunt for your next clock or vintage glass bottle and you find the perfect one. Well, that is a great time to reevaluate your collection and get rid of one or two items that are not so perfect. Editing is crucial so that your collection doesn't go from interesting and thought provoking to looking like a cluttered mess. Additionally, making creative use of various pieces in your collection like using pottery to hold flowers or greenery for a holiday centerpiece or making your miniature garden gnome collection into individual place card holders at a dinner party. For more inspiration and tips on collecting, check out Ron's segment on KDKA's Pittsburgh Today Live (PTL Links: January 7,2011).

Winter Woes Are Solved With a Little Light...

2010-12-22T13:29:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe that just yesterday winter officially began when you think about the fact that we started seeing snow last month! With the holiday season underway and end of the year festivities rapidly approaching, I start dreaming of an early Spring. Well...maybe Spring is a little too far in the future. However, in the winter and especially in the beginning of a new year, timing couldn't be better for freshening up your interiors by bringing nature and light into your home with new window treatments. Today's interiors are begging for simple, minimal coverings that do three things; provide privacy, control light and look beautiful. A simple way to do all three is to do one of the following. Use natural, woven shades made of bamboo, grass cloth or sisal mounted inside the frame of the window. The natural look is timeless and can be implemented in the most traditional homes to the most extreme minimalist contemporary abodes alike. For home owners who desire a more luxurious look, fabric panels that begin at the top of the wall and cascade down to the floor can be as casual or as formal as you want depending on the fabric chosen. Silk, velvet and damask add drama and glamour when paired with metal rods and finials. Linen, cotton and hemp are comfy-chic with natural bamboo or other sustainably harvested wooden rods. Panel track systems are excellent window coverings and functional room dividers in open floor plans and lofts if you're looking for that Asian-inspired aesthetic. For gadget and technology aficionados, remote controlled blinds and fabric panels are the perfect solution. Finally, we are all trying to be more environmentally friendly. Honeycomb (cellular) shades are not only beautiful, they also add an extra barrier between windows and the elements outside. They can help cut down on the cost of heating and cooling your home. When the holidays are over and the twinkling lights come down, let some light in and freshen up your window treatments.

Creating Interesting Table Settings For the Holiday Season

2010-12-16T13:36:00.005-05:00

It can be daunting to come up with new and interesting holiday decor year after year. However, there are simple, inexpensive ways to spruce up items that you may already own and tricks and tips for purchasing new accessories. Weisshouse designer, Ron Reinheimer was featured in a segment on Pittsburgh Today Live discussing fun ways to interject your favorite pop of color into your own holiday table setting. Ron used yellow as his accent color and classic silver ornaments and dinnerware against a bright white table and chairs. Yellow can be a welcome alternative to the standard gold color. He also used edible items such as lemons and salt and glitter crystal covered yellow apples in the mix. Ron described how he put white paint in a throw away container and tossed pine cones in the paint to create adorable place card holders. He even placed loose evergreen branches collected from his own backyard on the table to create an eye catching backdrop for the other accents. The truly great thing about all of these helpful tips is that this type of table setting can take you from Thanksgiving to New Years with just a few simple tweaks. It's always a good idea to have some clear, glass vessels on hand. They don't have to be fine crystal. Vases from flowers and even antique glass jars and bottles work perfectly. Also, like Ron did, you can bring items in from nature like twigs and branches. With a can of white spray paint and glitter from your local craft store, beautiful things can be created for little to no money. Check out Ron's complete segment at http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2010/12/15/ptl-links-december-15-2010/. The photos below show some examples from Ron's segment as well.

Weisshouse Hosts a Fund Raising Event for The Sprout Fund

2010-12-10T14:16:00.013-05:00

Last night, Stacy Weiss, Ellen Weiss Kander and Andy Weiss hosted a fund raiser at Weisshouse for The Sprout Fund, a local organization that generously supports some amazing causes. The night began with delicious hors d' oeuvres and great music. Cathy Lewis Long, co-creator of The Sprout Fund discussed the many wonderful ways that Sprout enriches the lives and neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Many people know and have seen the beautiful murals around the city. However, last night provided a platform for a few of Sprout's support recipients to showcase their projects. Joe Zgurzynski of Burgh Bees discussed "the aims to introduce beekeeping to Pittsburghers in order to promote bees and beekeeping and in so doing, stewardship of the environment. In support of this mission Burgh Bees’ seminars and mentorship programs help teach beginning beekeepers how to responsibly keep their own hives. Additionally, Burgh Bees develops and maintains urban apiaries that serve as the location for hands-on beekeeping classes." Seema Patel from CTTEC (CMU''s Center for Technology Transfer and Enterprise Creation) enlightened the crowd about "Interbots, Inc., a high-tech spin-off company associated with the Carnegie Mellon University Entertainment Technology Center has teamed up with the Autism Center of Pittsburgh to provide innovative robot-based therapy for children with autism." Avid bicyclist, Lou Fineberg talked about Bike Pittsburgh. He also had a small replica of the three rivers bike racks that are seen throughout the city and initially funded by The Sprout Fund. Jon Rubin and his adorable six year old assistant Lilah discussed the super cool Conflict Kitchen, "a take-out restaurant that only serves cuisine from countries that the United States is in conflict with. The food is served out of a take-out style storefront, which will rotate identities every four months to highlight another country. Each Conflict Kitchen iteration is augmented by events, performances, and discussion about the the culture, politics, and issues at stake with each country they focus on." In addition to all of those wonderful causes, The Sprout Fund also supports an vast array of other projects. Check out their website at http://www.sproutfund.org/about/. The Sprout Fund is always accepting donations and greatly appreciates all support. It was a great night in support of a great cause. Check out the photos below to see some of the fabulous party attendees.

Photos (top to bottom): 1. Stan Adamik 2. Andy Weiss, Stacy Weiss, Cathy Lewis Long, Ellen Weiss Kander 3. Stacy Weiss, Ellen Weiss Kander, Andy Weiss, 4. Laura Karet, Will Carpenter, Kitty Hillman 5. Betty Rich, Joe Zgurzynski, Larry Rich 6. Mark Minnerly, Cathy Lewis Long, Steve Mosites 7. Ellen Terry Kaplan Goldstein, Seema Patel 8. Jack & Andy Weiss 9. Joe Zgurzynski, Cathy Lewis Long 10. Jon Rubin, Lilah 11. Lou Fineberg

Weisshouse Welcomes Italian Icons

2010-12-01T15:10:00.005-05:00

Weisshouse is proud to welcome Cassina (Furniture) back to the showroom. Around the world, the name Cassina is spontaneously associated with Italian design. Since 1927, Cassina has been a preeminent design leader and manufacturer of original contemporary furniture. Cassina USA was established in 1994 to bring their contemporary furniture to the American market. Their modern classics include the Cassina I Maestri Collection by 20th century masters, as well as the contemporary designs of noted European designers. Many of these furniture designs are included in the collections of leading museums, and are found in the world’s best-furnished interiors.

Classic pieces like Mario Bellini's CAB and Gerrit T. Rietveld's UTRECT blend seamlessly into any home or office interior. LeCorbusier's LC3 collection consisting of an armchair and two seat sofa are stunning in black, white or ivory leather with chrome frames. An accent piece like no other is LeCorbusier's LC4 designed in 1928, is still current in the most stylish spaces. Stop in the showroom any day to see and fall in love with Cassina's incomparable furnishings.

Photos (top to bottom): CAB chair, UTRECT chair, LC3 armchair, LC4 chaise, MARALUNGA sofa

GIVE Style: A Weissguide to Holiday Gift Giving

2010-11-22T15:55:00.041-05:00

Well...it's that time again. The holiday shopping season is well under way and Weisshouse is here to save you. Whether you are searching for a special gift for the friend who has everything or simply something lovely to bring to a holiday party, read on for ideas and inspiration.
For that special someone in your life (man or woman), give Clarice Cliff inspired pottery or striking bronze hands. Either gift is sure to bring years of pleasure and will undoubtedly be the hit of this gift giving season. Perhaps, there is an art lover near and dear to you. The lacquered Mondrian boxes below will look great on a dresser, bedside table or console or give an original piece of art from artist and Pennsylvania native, Karl Mullen (mixed media on paper). The black and green metal bowls and handmade re-purposed tool bowl constructed of various discarded tools, screws, bolts, washers and other assorted found objects are amazing as a centerpiece or on a kitchen island. How about that environmentally conscious friend? Well...he or she is also covered when you give re-usable, re-fillable glass water bottles that can also be beautiful on a shelf or windowsill. In addition to the glass water bottles, please see the gorgeous pastel colored glass vases that are suitable for even the most particular of gift recipients.
Let's not forget our ever gracious party hosts and hostesses this year. Striking orchids, small framed pieces of art like the silhouette portrait of the dog below (available in various breeds) and luxuriously scented candles are all coveted gifts. Maybe you are the one who likes to give something edible. Give wrapped chocolate covered nuts in various flavors, packaged granola or snowflake crunch so that all of the guests can enjoy your graciousness. While all of these edible delights are sure to be appreciated, if you really want to wow, bring a locally made pumpkin pie or a dozen gourmet cupcakes enticingly boxed.

Hopefully, we have helped you cross a few names off your gift giving list. Just remember to always GIVE something that you would LOVE to receive. Happy shopping from Weisshouse!

Photos : (top to bottom) Clarice Cliff inspired pottery $ 250-380, Sculpted bronze hands $ 895, Mondrian lacquer box $ 125, Karl Mullen mixed media $ 350, Metal bowls $ 120-158, Tool bowl $ 295, Glass water bottle $ 35, Pastel glass vases $ 196-298 (available at Weisshouse), Three stem orchid $ 85 (available at Toadflax in Shadyside), Dog Silhouette $ 190, Diptyque scented candle $ 60, Chocolate coated nuts - various $ 10.50 (available at Toadflax in Shadyside), Snowflake crunch $ 5, Pumpkin Pie $ 15, Cupcakes $ 25 per dozen (available at Dozen Bakeshop-Lawrenceville)

Miners bottles as "objets d' art"

2010-11-17T12:50:00.008-05:00

When searching for the perfect pop of color in your home, look no further than Miners bottles. These interesting accessories have an equally interesting story to tell. Made by miners in eastern Europe (probably Poland or Czechoslovakia), they are woven from detonator wires around discarded wine bottles. These objects were not made for their own use but for sale to tourists or other village people. The miner’s made them as they were waiting for their shifts to start or perhaps when the mine had to be evacuated for explosive gases. We liken this folk craft to scrimshaw objects which the sailors made during their long sea voyages. Circa 1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s or 1990’s.

Equally cool are Zulu telephone wire art bottles and pots featured in the July-August issue of Veranda magazine. Colorful plastic-coated copper wire is woven into baskets and around glass bottles of various shapes and sizes to create beautiful little works of art. David Arment, an avid collector of Zulu telephone wire art began going on safaris in 1992. It was during his travels that he first became interested in the swirls and zigzags often portrayed in African art. Today, Arment's collection consists of over 1,000 pieces.

Whether you decide to include 1 or 1,000 bottles in your own collection, the addition of Miners bottles is one that will bring about much interest and conversation.

South African Imbenge basket artist Jaheni Mkhize demonstrates "soft basket" construction in Santa Fe, July 2005.

Don’t Pull the Wool Over Your Eyes

2010-11-10T12:09:00.010-05:00

Wool was once thought of as itchy, hot and uncomfortable. However, wool is a wonderful alternative when it comes to its synthetic counterparts. Today’s interiors can take advantage of the many advantages that wool has to offer in upholstery, bedding and of course, carpet and rugs. Not only does wool wear better and outlast synthetic based goods, it is a sustainable, earth loving product unlike petroleum based textiles and carpet.

The advantages of wool products are endless. First and foremost, it wicks moisture away from the body better than any other material, manufactured or natural, says Chris Lupton, Ph.D., a wool and mohair fiber expert at Texas A&M Research Center at San Angelo. In fact, wool can absorb up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet—more than ten times what synthetics or feathers can handle, according to an article published on www.natural homemagazine.com titled, Wool Bedding: Sleep Like a Lamb.

Finally, and perhaps most important, wool is beautiful. It takes and holds color gloriously and wears like steel. You will never regret investing in wool for your home or office. Wool is timeless, environmentally superior and a breath of fresh air in world filled with chemicals and synthetic products.

Photos (top to bottom): 1. Stunning patterned wool carpet that can be installed wall to wall or made into a custom sized rug available at Weisshouse 2. Machine washable Woolley “Down” Pillow available at http://holylamborganics.com/pillows.html 3. Adorable felted wool bowls available at Etsy from missyandme (seller)

Weisshouse is in the newest issue of Whirl Magazine

2009-12-15T11:18:00.002-05:00

We are featured in the December 2009 issue of Whirl Magazine. You can see our vintage hand molded leather rhinoceros in the "Gold" vignette. Here's the link for the entire article. http://www.whirlmagazine.com/holiday-shopping-guide-image

25 Holiday Decorating Tips

2009-12-10T08:42:00.000-05:00

Doing any holiday decorating? Coastal Living has 25 tips for giving your house that wonderful festive look. We may not be on the coast, but that's no excuse not to have bright and inviting interiors! Here's the link.

Choosing the perfect art for your home

2009-11-19T15:05:00.002-05:00

Art can be the big difference between a boring room or a vibrant one. Follow this link for some great tips on choosing art to suit your taste, and don't forget to check out Weisshouse's stock of artwork and other unique finds at http://uniquefinds.weisshouse.com/products/list

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week (10-21-09)

2009-10-21T16:28:00.003-04:00

Large Vintage Poster #A4941

Old footwear advertisement in good condition. Framed under glass. Yippee Ki Yea!

Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more information.

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week (10-14-09)

2009-10-14T14:33:00.003-04:00

Vintage Mao Banner #A4951

Old hooked embroidery propaganda banner of Mao. Incredible find. Mounted and framed under glass. Power to the people!

Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more information.

Cleaning Tips

2009-10-14T14:30:00.002-04:00

Great tips on cleaning and caring for your furniture's upholstery.
http://www.rentaldecorating.com/1006/cleaning_furniture.htm

Bold New Rug Styles and Trends

2009-10-09T05:44:00.003-04:00

Check out this article from Home Accents Today on some of the newest trends in rug designs.

Bright and bold is definitely in!

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week (10-7-09)

2009-10-09T05:28:00.003-04:00

Spider #A4688

Handcrafted wooden spider sculpture from Brazil. Very detailed and a great conversation piece.

Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more information.

The Weisshouse Warehouse Sale

2009-10-01T15:56:00.003-04:00

Friday October 9th, don't miss out on this one day event! Weisshouse is happy to announce the Weisshouse Warehouse Sale. Great prices on tables, sofas, chairs, desks, accessories, one-of-a-kinds, and area rugs. All at our warehouse at 1929 McCague St, just off of the Edgewood/Swissvale exit on Parkway East.

And don't forget to mark your calendars, because this sale is one day only!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week (9-30-09)

2009-09-30T16:51:00.003-04:00

Vintage Suzani #A4895

Hand made colorful Suzani with signature, dated 1976 - "75 x 55". Suzani's are decorative textiles from Central Asia. The name comes from the word "needle"

Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

Quick Weekend Projects

2009-09-30T16:00:00.003-04:00

15 quick weekend projects which can help invigorate your outdoor living space:

http://www.coastalliving.com/homes/decorating/outdoor-spaces-weekend-projects-00400000049101/

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week (9-23-09)

2009-09-23T16:16:00.007-04:00

Antique Warrior #A4866

Burmese gilded warrior, hand carved with a beautiful patina. Protect your home and loved ones! Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week

2009-09-16T11:47:00.003-04:00

Vintage Karabagh #8673

Vibrant hand-knotted wool area rug with floral bouquets and small deer. Date woven into the rug – 1965 - 57”x105”. Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

DesignPhiladelphia Set for October

2009-09-16T11:33:00.001-04:00

DesignPhiladelphia begins October 7 and features great new interior design, fashion, textiles, and architecture.

Interior Design: DesignPhiladelphia Set for October

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week

2009-09-10T11:32:00.002-04:00

Wooden Bench #H2758

Exquisite Tamarind wood bench with organic slab seat. This piece speaks for itself. A statement wherever it lives. Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

How to Choose Quality Furniture

2009-09-10T11:30:00.002-04:00

Use these helpful tips to find furniture that you’re sure to love, and that you can keep loving for years to come.

Rental Decorating Digest: Finding Furniture You Can Fall in Love With

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week

2009-09-02T12:41:00.001-04:00

Vintage Indian Deity #A4458

Hand painted clay Deity – usually found outside of Indian Temples. Will definitely bring you good luck. Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

Cool and Contemporary Pittsburgh Architecture

2009-09-02T12:34:00.002-04:00

Great contemporary architecture and interior design in the Pittsburgh area.

Pop City: Cool and Contemporary Pittsburgh Architecture

Stacy's Top Pick of The Week

2009-08-26T10:12:00.003-04:00

Vintage Octagonal Mirror #A4943

Glamorous vintage mirror with multi facetted mirror frame. Timeless for any décor. Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

“Social media: A strategic path to sales success”

2009-08-26T10:03:00.002-04:00

Great article about the power of social media, written by Melissa Galt of Home Accents Today:

Home Accents Today: Social media: A Strategic path to sales success

Stacy's Top Pick of the Week

2009-08-19T13:32:00.002-04:00

Antique Mongolian Buffet #H2733

3 drawer/3 double door Primitive buffet that has great storage. Beautiful red patina on doors, nice size – 105”wx19”dx33.5”h, great carved details. Please call or visit uniquefinds.weisshouse.com for more details.

Veranda highlights the best designs for ottomans, coffee tables, and textural lighting.

2009-08-19T13:29:00.000-04:00

http://www.veranda.com/designers-ideas/furniture-ideas-ottomans-coffee-tables-lighting

Weisshouse is honored for retailing excellence by Home Accents Today magazine

2009-06-18T09:44:00.009-04:00

Home Accents Today 2009 Retail Stars: The Best and the Brightest

By Susan Dickenson and Dana French

During the course of reviewing nominations for this year’s Retail Stars list, it was suggested by more than one reader that perhaps this year’s list should be renamed to “Retail Survivors.” That’s probably due to the fact that when we announced our call for nominations, America’s retailers were already experiencing the screeching halt of customer traffic brought on by the financial fall-out of the first quarter of 2009, coming right on the heels of the ugly last quarter of 2008.

Nonetheless, by mid-April we found ourselves looking at another great stack of nomination forms. And from those we’ve chosen these: 50 retailers of home accents who demonstrate a knack for merchandising, are vital members of their communities, and/or have managed to distinguish themselves from their competition in order to be successful.

In fact, despite the “Survivor” suggestion, one thing that does distinguish the 2009 list from those in years past is its impressive staying power. Ten of the stores on this year’s list are at least 50 years old and almost half of the list has been in business for at least a decade. One store, Snow’s Home & Garden of Orleans, Mass., might just be one of our oldest retail stars to date. Known as “Cape Cod’s Ultimate Shopping Destination,” Snow’s has been owned by the same family since its founding in 1887.
Our 2009 Retail Stars also own a lot more selling space (about 2.6 million square feet) and employ about three times more people (3,400) than last year’s list.

Thirteen of this year’s retail stars sell in at least 9,000 square feet of space. The largest retailer on our list this year is Art Van Furniture, which groups accessories and rugs in its furniture vignettes at each of its 30 Michigan stores, representing a collective 1.5 million square feet.
But we’ve also seen some pretty impressive things happening in much smaller venues. Four of the retailers operate in less than 1,000 square feet of space, the smallest being Total Bliss, a 300-sq.-ft. shop within a retail/design center in Huntersville, N.C.

As a group, our Stars have also demonstrated that a Web site is no longer a novelty. Almost every shop is online — some selling, some even blogging about their businesses. Many of the stores are differentiating themselves through store-branded products, private labels and lots of customization.

A summary of the selection methodology follows this article. As this is not a ranking, the stores are presented in alphabetical order along with a tiny summary paragraph that doesn’t do them justice. We encourage you to visit their Web sites and, if possible, their stores for a closer look. And look for more information about many of these stores in future editions of Home Accents Today and at HomeAccentsToday.com.

WEISSHOUSE PITTSBURGH
1 STORE; ESTIMATED 2008 TOTAL SALES: $5 million - $9.9 million
Home furnishings specialist, in business since 1943. Its 14,000-sq.-ft. store offers high-end lines. Has 13 employees, including five salespeople. Home accents include accent furniture, lamps, lighting, wall decor, decorative pillows, throws, area rugs, tabletop and other decorative accessories. Key vendors include B&B Italia, Ligne Roset, Calvin Klein, Mitchell Gold+Bob Williams, Oly Studio, Central Station, Four Hands and ClubCu accent furniture; Bjorling & Grant, Ligne Roset and Patrick Charles for decorative accessories; Visual Comfort, Artemide, Bobo Intriguing Objects, Verner Panton and Asia Minor for lamps; Roberta Schilling, Phillip Jefferies, Karl Mullen and Jack Weiss paintings for wall decor. Furniture and accent furniture accounted for 45% of 2008 total sales; flooring and area rugs, 40%; wallpaper, window treatments, fabric and other accessories, 15%. Special events include sample sales in January and June and warehouse sales. Describes its merchandising scheme as a modern eclectic mix, with Asian, African and American antiques and some traditional touches. Bills itself as a one-stop design center and shopping destination for home furnishings. weisshouse.com

HomeAccentsToday.com

Modern Italian meets classic Edgeworth Bold contemporary features open up old-school kitchen

2009-06-08T15:55:00.002-04:00

The renovated kitchen in the home of Kay and Roger Wiegand of Edgeworth features an extra long island with a notch for seating. Interior designer Kay Wiegand cooked up a fool-proof recipe for adding a little Italian flavor to her very traditional, very American, Edgeworth home. The house, a girls boarding school during the Civil War, has all of the architectural elements you would expect from something built in 1833 -- deep molding, high ceilings, original glass and two-story plantation-style colonnades along the front porch.

What you don't expect to find is an airy, 900-square-foot kitchen with a decidedly contemporary manner. It was a bold move incorporating something so modern into something so old school, but Mrs. Wiegand and her husband, Roger, are not timid when it comes to thoughtful updating. The kitchen was small and cut off from the rest of the house, so the couple decided to open things up.

"My personal philosophy is if you have a great old house and you tear it apart, you want to make sure you maintain some historical integrity and retain a sense of flow," says Mrs. Wiegand, owner of the design business Kay Wiegand Inc.

The main ingredient used to tie the differing styles together is color.

"Kay is known for her sense of color," says Stacy Weiss, owner of Weisshouse.

More information

Weisshouse on South Highland Avenue in Shadyside has a Poliform Varenna kitchen showroom and samples of cabinet colors and woods. Information: 412-441-8886.

The furniture retailer represents Poliform Varenna, the Italian manufacturer Mrs. Wiegand chose for her kitchen. In it, the dominant rich caramel plays off the sleek Ovangkol touch-latch wood cabinets, giving the room a warm, welcoming feel rather than the cold clinical look some contemporary kitchens take on. It also connects well with the more traditional rooms, which are done in vibrant blues, greens and deep coral.

"I like crayon colors, and I enjoy using color wherever I can," explains Mrs. Wiegand.

Because four smaller rooms had to come down to create the new kitchen space, planning alone took about five months.

"We worked with Kay and architect Bill Childes from Ohio and Ron Reinheimer, who helped sketch out the plans for the kitchen," says Ms. Weiss.

As walls came down, steel beams were added to shore up the ceiling.

"We had a leak from the chimney, which caused the ceiling to crash down on the floor. It was a disaster, but we ended up with radiant-heated floors because of it," Mrs. Wiegand says.

The ceramic-tile floor is very cozy underfoot now. An 18-foot-long island with a notched area for seating at one end is a gathering spot for friends and family, including the Wiegands' three children and four grandchildren. The extra-long island is practical, too, loaded with storage space and appliances. Blizzard-white stone countertops on the island and sink are easy to keep looking new, unlike more high-maintenance stone such as marble and granite.

"I didn't want this space to be fussy," notes Mrs. Wiegand.

No fuss but lots of storage were some of the directives she gave to the Weisshouse team.

"I really didn't want to lose the storage space I had with the four rooms that were removed," she says.

All of the drawers and some doors open with just a touch, and other cabinets have only streamlined horizontal bars for latches. The result is a clean, seamless look. Behind the sleek surface is room for everything, including a water cooler, an icemaker, a trash smasher, a dishwasher, two sinks and two refrigerators. In keeping with the uncluttered aesthetic, all plugs and switches are hidden under the over-counter cabinets and recessed lighting makes the coral-colored glass tile backsplash glow. White lacquered cabinets above the main sink also set off the tiles and add another dimension to the room.

"We pored over hundreds of different tiles looking for just the right color," says Mrs. Wiegand, adding that it was one of the harder decisions.

Icon Construction was the general contractor on the project and Carpenter Construction installed the Poliform cabinets.

What to do with the little basement door was another dilemma. It was solved with a nod to the nautical -- a porthole-style window. The stair rail to the right was done in horizontal stainless steel, making everything look ship-shape.

"We added a stainless-steel countertop under one of the kitchen windows with a basin for plants, which can be watered without worrying about ruining the countertop," Ms. Weiss notes.

A built-in banquette done in camel leather piped in cream surrounds a large oval Saarinen table from Weisshouse, and an oversized ottoman is strategically placed near the in-wall gas fireplace surrounded by rectangular bamboo tiles.

"I love how it has turned out," declares Mrs. Wiegand.

Patricia Sheridan can be reached at psheridan@post-gazette.com.

First published on January 3, 2009 at 12:00 am

Read more: "Modern Italian meets classic Edgeworth" - http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09003/939266-30.stm#ixzz0GARVRCWW&A