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Nuggets of the Week: My “Spruced” Chair, In the News, and Movie Day!

By Meredith | Published: July 30, 2010

This week has flown by at Spruce, and lots of fun things happening!

First, I sit in a nifty desk chair that has a GREAT shape and some awesome rollers. Amanda and Lizzie picked it up at the UT Surplus a couple of years ago. It has been begging for a redo and just had not made it on the schedule. Well, Amanda turned into Santa Claus a few weeks ago and told me I could choose any fabric to put on my desk chair. So I spent a week combing the shelves, and finally settled on a Robert Allen fabric. It is a cut velvet geometric in a beautiful jewel-tone (which you know I love). Keegan was the creator of my new chair, and boy did she do a great job! I felt like a kid on a road trip saying, “Is it done yet?! Is it done yet?!” A week later, Keegan rolled my little beauty out to the front, and I couldn’t have been more impressed. I think it turned out great, and now I get to sit in an amazingly “Spruced” desk chair. Check out the before and afters below.

Also, Wednesday was a bit of a monsoon up here on Lamar. When we were eating lunch together it looked as though we might float away! Amanda got a wild hair and decided that we should have a movie day and work on projects that could be completed inside the studio. I think Lizzie, Keegan, and I about fell over in excitement! So Team Blonde worked on painting our display wall (chalkboard paint!), Amanda worked on a new project (to be revealed later!), and I kept plugging away with my to do list. We had a great time watching the new Alice in Wonderland and Amanda’s favorite, You’ve Got Mail. Nothing beats staying in on a rainy day, and it was a special treat for the Sprucettes!

Last, but certainly NOT LEAST, Spruce was featured in the Statesman on Thursday! We had an article on the front page of the Life & Style Section. Our studio was packed and phone ringing off the hook with new Spruce lovers! We think Kristi Kingston did a great job, and are so grateful to have been included. Check it out here if you weren’t able to catch the article.

Have a great weekend!

Posted in Meredith, Nugget of the Week | Tagged article, Austin, Austin Statesman, fabric, Robert Allen, spruce, upholstery | Leave a comment

331 Square Feet of Potential!

By keegan | Published: July 28, 2010

This week I am moving from a spacious two bedroom house into a 331 sq. ft. closet. Granted, my new “apartment” has some luxuries, like a dishwasher (which I have never had; Lizzie had to come over and show me how to use it), but the space issue is, well, an issue.

You see, I have furniture. Lots and lots of furniture. This is my third summer here in Austin, and when I moved down here I (amazingly) fit everything I owned into my Corrolla. Two years later, I doubt if I could even fit all of my sneakers.

So step one is, clearly, downsize! Have you ever sold furniture on craigslist? It is problematic for me, because even though the goal is to get rid of furniture, I can’t help but find new gems I want to recover. Check these potentials out:

Vintage chair and loveseat set could be really cool

White vinyl side chair is totally rad

Deisgn wood arm chair has potential

Who doesn’t love a tufted chaise lounge?

I suddenly realize how I got myself into this pickle!

No, Keegan, stay focused! Step two, thoughtful design concept. I have been researching small space solutions, and I am starting to feel totally inspired:

Seems like I need to create a focal point, create some sort of division between the bed and the rest of the space, make thoughtful use of lighting, and have tons of storage (thanks, back issues of Domino!). However, I have also come across some seemingly conflicting advice: hang art low so ceilings seem higher / high art high so it draws attention upwards, use lots of small mirrors / use one huge mirror, and the list goes on! Help me readers! What’s your best advice on decorating a small space? Also, how do I make my tiny, windowless bathroom seem less like a teeny dungeon?

I will keep you up to date on my progress, and hopefully someday soon I can squeeze in a few photos into a before and after post. Wish me luck!

Posted in Before and Afters, Keegan | Tagged craigslist, Domino, inspiration, Small Space Solutions, studio apartment | 2 Comments

Inspiration of the Week: Monster Plants

By lizzie | Published: July 26, 2010

Besides being inspired by furniture and fabrics, I also really love the outdoors and the idea of growing plants. I say the “idea of growing plants” because, really, I have the black thumb of death instead of a green thumb. My sister Emily was in Houston this past weekend and saw “Lois” the Corpse Flower (named so because of its horrid stench) at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and posted photos on her Facebook page. Check out the second photo for scale.

I was really excited to see this because it reminded me of this amazing blog on the Domino Magazine website written by the Germinatrix. The Germinatrix, a.k.a Ivette Soler, had created my quirky dream garden called the Monster Garden. The plants looked like they might eat you. This particular garden is no longer online, but these are the kinds of plants you would see in it:

I think they look like they could have come out of the latest Alice in Wonderland from Tim Burton–a little surreal, odd in scale, and full of vibrant colors. Ha!–and actually they do appear in the movie:

I like these plants because they remind me that the world is vast and there are many things to see. I would love to grow these kinds of plants, but seeing as I would need a rainforest or at least a large greenhouse, it’s just not going to happen. So, I stick with smaller versions: succulents.

These popular plants look great in the ground, in bouquets, and around the house in repurposed containers. I’ve discovered that most things I like have rich colors, bold lines, and look pretty solid. These plants fit the bill perfectly!

Posted in Inspiration of the Week, Lizzie, Uncategorized | Tagged corpse flower, lois, monster garden, plants, succulents | 1 Comment

Nugget of the Week: Dublin Dr. Pepper and VW Bus Update!

By amanda | Published: July 24, 2010

Thanks Dr. Pepper!

The Sprucettes greatly enjoy their ice-cold beverages, especially during the hot summer months. While helping one of our customers, Meredith discovered that he is the owner of Dublin Dr. Pepper. Needless to say, after our enthusiastic spiel about our love of Dr. Pepper, he returned the following day with two cases for the Sprucettes. If you haven’t tried it, click HERE to find out more. Thanks Mr. “Dr. Pepper!”

And for those of you who have been following the Sprucette’s VW bus transformation, here are some new photos of the bus being painted.

Before too long, we’ll be cruising around town.

Posted in Amanda, Nugget of the Week, Uncategorized | Tagged bus, Dr. Pepper, dublin dr. pepper, vw bus | 1 Comment

Fabric: All Things Aviary!

By Meredith | Published: July 22, 2010

So I know that Lizzie has mentioned her love for animal themed fabric. However, as of late, my love for animal fabric, specifically birds, has crept in. I see a lot of clients come through that just LOVE any fabric that has birds featured. Some bird-themed fabrics from back in the day were pretty hideous, but the new updated approach to our flying friends makes for a great fabric! I love that fabrics featuring birds are not consistent in one look or style. This creature can translate to a traditional or contemporary space.

It is great to see a more graphic print using birds! Thomas Paul, our biggest crowd-pleaser, designed the first bird fabric in this set. I think a graphic bird can balance well between being playful and sophisticated.

I have seen birds used in a more delicate manner as well. These fabrics have a hand-drawn element that really shows off detailing well. And whose mother didn’t have a rooster print in her kitchen at one point?! Maybe some curtains above the sink? Just teasing, gotta love our mothers.

With so many methods for creating fabric out there, I have great respect for those who choose to use the hand-printing method. The time and precision of the craftsman is truly honorable. And we get to enjoy the rewards in our homes! These are a few of my favorite hand-printed fabrics that feature birds.

I have enjoyed admiring and adding fabrics to the Spruce collection that feature birds. We have used a few of these in client projects, and they have all turned out beautifully! Next time you are “sprucing” your home, make sure to give these guys a look. They will not dissapoint!

A little fabric nugget outside the realm of birds is that there is a new gal creating some amazing new prints. Her name is Christen Maxwell, and she’s great! She just launched, and you should certainly check out her textiles. When I see her prints, the first words to my mind are “ethnic” and “elegant.” Be sure to check her out, or come by our shop in a few weeks when we will have her samples here!

Posted in Fabrics, Meredith | Tagged birds, Christen Maxwell, Duralee, fabric, schumacher, spruce, Thomas Paul, upholstery | 1 Comment

Inspiration of the Week: Sculptural Chairs

By keegan | Published: July 19, 2010

Given my dual loves of furniture and all things wacky, it was just a matter of time before I stumbled onto the DigsDigs discussion of The 15 Most Unusual Lounge Chairs in the World.

Here is my favorite, the bathtub chair:

And here is my second favorite, the Teddy Bear Chair (points for the creepy factor):

Ok, but: bathtub chair!? Amazing, ridiculous, most likely uncomfortable. And yet, I love it. Surprisingly, there’s actually a lot of bathtub furniture out there. Check out these out:

I mean, I GET it. These designs feel fresh, and I appreciate that they reuse materials that might otherwise go to a landfill. But isn’t the big draw really just the kitsch factor? A bathtub that turned into a chair! Its the Cinderella story of our time!

What is it about unusable furniture that is appealing? Is it purely to scratch an aesthetic itch? I do appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship involved here, but what really gets me is what I suspect to be the artistic impulse behind these pieces; the theory, though perhaps its just irony. When does a piece of furniture cross the line and become sculpture?

Take the slew of giant-sized chairs out there, such as the Mega Wingback that Spruce reupholstered last fall. These are completely impractical objects, that wear the disguise of practical objects. I don’t think its a stretch to argue this is a comment on American consumerism, done in a way that is palatable and fun. How else do you explain these ridiculously huge chairs:

(Pink couch image via Jezebel)

Yes, that is an adult-sized rocking chair you are looking at, and no I didn’t find it in SkyMall.

What is the difference between innovative design that is functional, dated design that is pure kitsch and sculpture that resembles furniture? How would we classify these chairs:

ኀʧ

I suspect it comes down to semiotics, but I’d like to know more; can anyone recommend a good design theory book or site?

Posted in Inspiration of the Week, Keegan | 2 Comments

Nugget of the Week: Happy Birthday Meredith!

By lizzie | Published: July 16, 2010

Yesterday we celebrated Meredith’s birthday! We had a yummy lunch from Threadgill’s followed by some super scrumptious cupcakes that Amanda made. Here’s what our little birthday luncheon looked like:

Another exciting nugget: this week we enjoyed talking to Justin Bieber on the phone!

No, not really. They were a series of prank calls, but we enjoyed laughing about it. Thanks to whoever it was for the entertainment!

Posted in Lizzie, Meredith, Nugget of the Week, Uncategorized | Tagged birthday, cupcakes, Meredith, Nugget, Threadgills | 1 Comment

Calling all Apprentices!

By Meredith | Published: July 15, 2010

We have some exciting news at Spruce. The time has come for another Apprentice to move through the ranks! Take a look at the detailed information below about this great opportunity.

We are seeking a creative, bright and hands-on individual for an eight-week apprenticeship leading into full-time employment as an upholsterer. Apprentice must have a keen interest in working with their hands and craftsmanship as well as the motivation and dedication to learn the trade of upholstery. Upholstery training will entail one-on-one hands-on instruction at the Spruce studio. A successful eight-week unpaid apprenticeship will lead to long-term employment at Spruce as a full-time principal upholsterer.

Individual must be flexible to a fast-paced, always changing daily routine and be enthusiastic and punctual. Apprentice must possess a strong desire to learn and master the intensive, hands-on trade of upholstery. As an upholsterer, this individual must be prepared to get dirty, be able to do occasional lifting/rotating furniture (with the help of another person). Apprentice must be available (as well as extremely excited) to commit to full-time employment at Spruce upon successful completion of the eight-week apprenticeship.

We think its pretty obvious that we have a GREAT time here! At Spruce, you will get the chance to have a fun, fulfilling and non-traditional work experience. Don’t be afraid to apply! We are excited for a new Apprentice to make their way as a Sprucette or a Sprucer .

Send through your resume and and cover letter to our email address design@spruceaustin.com . We can’t wait to hear from you!!

Sincerely,

The Sprucettes

Posted in The Spruce Studio and Store, The Sprucettes | Tagged apprentice, Austin, spruce, upholstery | 1 Comment

Art Deco Furniture

By amanda | Published: July 14, 2010

Ruhlmann Cabinet Detail

As you may already know, I have a slight infatuation with Art Deco furniture. I love the use of luxurious materials and bold, curvy lines combined with the finest decorative details.

The Art Deco Movement (1919-1940) originated in France. After World War I, America, filled with a sense of liberation, favored the style’s use of luxury materials and sensibility for whimsical and organic forms. Wedged in between the Art Nouveau and Modernism movements, two categories of the Art Deco style emerged, one taking a more traditional approach, leaning towards feminine lines and naturalistic decoration, the other with more modern, geometric lines referencing the technology and architecture of the twenties and thirties.

It was interesting to me after researching the characteristics of Traditional Art Deco, that all of the materials so commonly used in this style are the ones I consistently gravitate towards: sumptuous leathers, exotic woods such as burr walnut, and ivory. I also happen to love inlaid wood, another detail characteristic of Traditional Art Deco. Sadly, my current selection of Art Deco furniture is pretty limited. Here are a few things I’m drooling over:

Edgar Brandt Metal Work

Ruhlmann Chaise

Ruhlmann Cabinet Detail

Love the wood grain!

Posted in Amanda, Uncategorized, history | Tagged Art Deco, Art Nouveau, furniture, inlaid wood, ivory, leather, Modernism, Ruhlmann | Leave a comment

Inspiration of the Week: Jewel Tones

By Meredith | Published: July 12, 2010

Color is one of the most talked about topics at Spruce. Deciding which colors look best on a certain piece of furniture, which combinations jive, which colors represent a certain style best, and the list goes on and on. When we make our own Spruce furniture, we are constantly trying to decide what colors we think best represent Spruce’s style. Lately, I always seem to find myself wanting to incorporate jewel tones into design. I love how saturated the colors are! They are bold and vibrant but also have a touch of sophistication. Jewel tones are said to be, ”rich color tones which resemble well known gemstones, either precious or semi-precious. Typically, jewel tones have a high level of color saturation, which makes them very dynamic and distinctive.”

Here are a few examples of excellent jewel tones.

If you took a look at my closet, you would see that I have quite a few items in this color palette. The fact that these colors flatter any skin tone or hair color is quite the accomplishment! And since gray compliments (my favorite neutral) all of these colors, they are a sure winner for me. Look at these amazing examples of the colors being used.

Not only do these colors work on any gal, but they can work in any space. These are some stunning ways to incorporate those colors into your home through fabrics and furniture!