Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Where do Interior Designers shop for Asian Accents?




Have you ever driven by a shop that looks so intriguing that you vow to return one day when you have a bit of time?  That's what happens every time I drive by Asian Accents in West Palm Beach.


They send postcards to designers as they receive new product, just to "dangle the carrot".  One day my business partner and I could resist no longer and popped in.  As you can see this warehouse is filled with lots of wonderful things.


Carved statues and Buddhas, panels large and small, credenzas, tables, cabinets and accent furniture were everywhere. We made notes for client projects and plan to bring our clients here to see all the beautiful pieces in person.


The carved details on this bench makes it even more charming.
 


A  hand painted cabinet like this adds so much character to any style interior.



Not all furniture is old.  New pieces like these have been popping up in showrooms and magazines everywhere.
This "Key" cabinet is available in many sizes and finishes.  Straight sides allow for bunching together to create exactly the size you want. too.

Silver metallic finishes add luster and formality.
A painted finish rubbed through to "age" this credenza  makes it less formal.

We ended up purchasing this cabinet for a client to use under a large flat screen tv.


Look how different a change of paint and accenting the detail can make.


This console is perfect for our client's foyer. It is narrow but also has drawers for storage.  She loved it.
We can't wait to have these pieces delivered when her house is ready.

They were willing to change the hardware on the cabinet to these teardrops.  We may silver leaf them too but will wait to see how they look in her home.




Changing hardware can have a huge effect. 
It can be difficult to find an over sized cocktail table for a large seating area, but here it is!

Decorating with Asian accents adds a special touch.  It works well with contemporary or traditional design.  I find it gives a "traveled" feeling, a "global" influence.  Whether the accents are new or old the effect is lovely.

Sometimes just introducing a few small pieces like these is gives an interior the perfect twist.



Have you heard of a drum table?  Well here are real  drums that you could use as tables, seats or keep them just as they are. 

Pagoda lanterns are great in the garden, patio, by a tub and, well, just about anywhere.
Look at this fabulous vintage rattan  cocktail table.
It's fun to come upon so many treasures.  Don't you love imagining where you might use them or how you might refinish, embellish or just make them your own?

What fun, an antiques shop in the same warehouse!
Vintage "bentwood" chairs.  These would add personality to any dining space.



This little armoire is charming but topped with a stack of vintage suitcases makes it irresistable. 
Sharing the warehouse was an antiques dealer with fabulous treasures. We did not have time to stop and look that day.  But we will return soon.
Next door to their warehouse was a small shop filled with a delightful surprise.





Look what we found hanging on the wall.  Panels of Indian fabrics, one more beautiful than the next.
Yes we will be going back there too!  We met the owner, Paula Roemer, who had just found these incredible textiles from India.  We can't wait to see what she discovers next!

Oh wait....lamps and lanterns!

Let's hang several of these at different heights with candles lit inside on a porch or balcony, or in the corner of a room.  It might be a bit of Bohemian but actually they are from India.

Such interesting detail on this lamp but a new shade would really make a difference.
Where would you put this delightful parasol?
Have you decorated with Asian accents?  What do you like about discovering new resources or poking around in warehouses filled with ...well, you never know what?  As always I invite you to share your experiences and inspirations in the comment box below.
I look forward to hearing from you!

                      Happy Decorating!