The History of Mosaics

Janna Paulson, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy, 1981

Feature Photo: Janna Paulson, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy, 1981 The history of mosaic is more than 4,000 years old. In the beginning, artists pushed terracotta cones point-first into a background for decoration. By the eighth century BC, there were pebble pavements using multi-colored stones to create patterns, although these tended to be unstructured decoration. Later, in […]

Light + Building Show in Frankfurt

For those of you who don’t get out much – lighting has changed a great deal. I had the opportunity to attend the Light + Building Show in Frankfurt, Germany last month.  This is the World’s biggest event for lighting, electrical technology and home and building automation.  There were 2,589 exhibitors from 55 countries.  An […]

take a tour through historic charleston

Did you know that Charleston was originally a gift to eight loyal friends from King Charles II of England? It was established in 1670 as a walled city to resist Native Americans, raids by Pirates and assaults by Spain and France. It had a diverse mixture of ethnic and religious groups. The oldest church dates […]

high point market

High Point is the largest trade show dedicated to residential home furnishings. There are over 80,000 manufacturers and buyers that attend from around the world. This is where trends are created. Gold is making a strong comeback in the lighting and furnishing categories. Rose gold has been trending in Europe and has made it’s debut […]

creating a focal point

Focal Point: A Point of Interest,  Center of Activity, A Feature that Attracts Attention When designing clubhouses we are always tasked with creating a strong focal point. Some are traditional in nature, while others lean toward the modern statement. Usually you will find a fireplace or TV on this wall. Some have seated hearths while […]

myths about ergonomics you need to forget

I read this great article in “Interiors and Sources” and thought it would be useful information for everyone to see. I know everyone has been instructed to “sit up straight”. From your mother to your school teacher. Well guess what, sitting upright forces the body to slump forward creating poor seating posture and unnecessary stress […]

Antiquing in Round Top

I’m sure you are wondering where the PPDS team goes to purchase our most interesting furniture and accessories. Who would have thought that this tiny Texas town could host a world-class Antique Market? Thousands of vendors come from all over the world to sell their wares ranging from French Antiques to reclaimed wood tables. All […]

Kona Coffee Bean Plantation

Most people savor their morning drinking coffee. There are so many different types out there – just try to make a simple Keurig order! I had the pleasure of spending a day with our favorite Kona Coffee Plantation Owner – Dale and his wife Gretchen of Watson-Kabei Coffee Estate.  You can order their coffee online […]

Exploring Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a wonderful combination of mountain coolness and desert aridness. It is also a popular place for honeymooners and girls’ trips. When driving up from Albuquerque, take the long route. We stopped in Madrid, a coal mining ghost town, nestled in the Ortiz Mountain Valley to shop in one of their many galleries. […]

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