MICHAEL HENNESSY HOME

PAINTING - ERIC ERNST / DESK & CHAIR - MICHAEL HENNESSYIs it me or does it seem like every new home store you walk into these days looks like it has been dreamt up by a teenage viewer of The Hills who thinks living in NYC or LA must be all about GIANT furniture?  I swear some of these over-designed items are big enough to make you feel like a Lilliputian!  The reality is that most people in NYC do not live in a 5,000 square foot loft - just so you know.   Happily, this article is not about such a store!

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that Michael Hennessy was opening a design store in Chelsea, as I knew his work and reputation in the Hamptons for years.  First off, Michael Hennessy is an interesting guy.   An artist with a paint brush and an artisan with a wood saw.   While the talent and inspiration go hand and hand for both mediums, it's not often we see someone pursue their passions in all directions. SASHA WARDELL - BONE CHINA *EXCLUSIVE TO MH HOME

One look around the store and it is clear that Mr. Hennessy has an affinity for artisans.  His choices really celebrate the creatives out there who have such great talent, and needed a venue that could nurture their work.   Combining his own creations with that of like minded Artists and furniture craftsmen has created a very unique environment.  You find things here that are not in a dozen other stores around town.   Shouldn't that be the point of designing a room for your home?DAYBED - ERIC FREEMAN / MIXED MEDIA ART - MILA WILSON / BELLA LAMP - ANDREA SUMMERTON

The store is eclectic and colorful and sure to inspire you.   You won't find another store with a collection like this.   Like a fine curator, Michael Hennessy is able to keep his collection as sharp and relevant as any gallery in Chelsea.   Visit Michael Hennessy Home.  In fact, make it a regular resource for your searches.   You will not be disappointed with what you find.   The staff is as friendly and helpful as can be, which makes it all the more enjoyable to stop by often.

Michael Hennessy Home is located at 207 West 18th Street: (646) 370-6575  -To read and see more: click - MH HOME.

OMNI + TWO JAKES =GREAT DESIGN

OMNI+ PRISM BY KARIM RASHID - $499.95I spent Saturday night in Williamsburg, Brooklyn at the launch party for Omni + furniture at the coolest mid-century minded furniture store - two jakes.   The Omni+ line is a welcome addition to the modernist minded shopper who appreciates clean lines and minimal clutter.  OMNI+ VAIL FIFTY BY KARIM RASHID - $599.95 Typically there is a great reality check when mid century decorating meets 21st century entertainment systems with cords and cables that could support life on Mars!  That's where Omni+ enters the equation.   Having been in the business of helping homes and offices clean up their act with mounts of all kinds for over 30 years as Omnimount, the company is no stranger to trying to achieve a more organized space.  

Williamsburg is always fun and there are a million things to do.   two jakes is a great destination for all things mid-century, industrial  and like minded accessories.   The store has a great selection of Eames furniture & Bisley cabinets - two of my favorite collections! Kimberly Fabiano, Betsey Banker, Jason Jobson, Anthony Santelli, & Christophe Pourny

Omni+ pieces were on display around the store that is oh so Williamsburg in it's laid back approach.   Omni+ enlisted design world superstar Karim Rashid to design some of the new collection and Rashid was on hand as well with his beautiful wife.  SUPER CHIC BETSEY BANKER Also in the crowd - Anthony Santelli of Martha Stewart Living and furniture restoration guru - Christophe Pourny. There was a big fashion infusion this night for a typically casual Williamsburg.    A few girls could have walked right off a Paris runway! 

Two jakes is enough of a reason to hop over to Williamsburg any afternoon.  WILLIAMSBURGER MINT SHAKEIf you get hungry, head to Williamsburger nearby.   They have the best burgers in the neighborhood, and mint milshakes - which is reason enough in my book to go to Brooklyn!    To check out the pieces from the new collection, click Omni+

IN STYLE - DUANE STREET ANTIQUES

DUANE STREET ANTIQUES - TRIBECADuane Street Antiques sits in the middle of one of the most charming squares in lower Manhattan.   What was once a warehouse for dairy products, is now home to a collection of stores and galleries.  

DUANE STREET ANTIQUES - TRIBECA

The duo have been in business about 10 years and recently launched their own furniture collection.  Duane Modern offers over 25 original designs with great style and good looks.  Inspired by great one of a kind pieces that have passed through the shop over the years. 

THE ODEON - NYCPlan an afternoon and go to lunch nearby The Odeon.   A staple for any true New Yorker, it remains one of my favorite restaurants year after year.  DUANE STREET MAP  Build up an appetite shopping at Duane Street - then head over to Odeon.   There are a million other reasons to go to Tribeca - you only need these two to have a great day.