Saturday, May 28, 2011

Skateboard Subculture Meets High End Design

I love when subculture meets high culture.  The clash of the two diametrically opposed worlds creates a unique energy.  In this case the chaotic skateboard subculture meets the sleek world of modern design.  Deckstools uses broken skateboard decks and repurpose  them into furniture that is urban, artistic, edgy and functional.  Every piece is made from broken or trashed skateboard decks that are donated or found and then given a new life in a completely different world.  This is reincarnation at its best. 



It's long been known in the skateboard world that the imagery on skateboard decks is nothing short of urban art.  It's graffiti on bent plywood.  Like an Eames Chair with graphic art printed all over it.  I love the energy the Deckstools create with the urban punk graphics and the heavy use scratches like scars on an old warrior (evidence of a former life) juxtaposed against the straight lines and geometry needed to make them a functional piece of furniture.  Hell, they even use the trucks as a support system to tie the legs together and the entire skateboard is recycled.  Seriously, what's not to love?  It's art, youth subculture and architecture all rolled into one to create high design.  We are very excited about the Deckstool line and we know you'll love them and at only a few hundred dollars it's a great way to add this versatile, graphic piece to your design mix. 


http://www.shop.hipsterhome.com/product.sc?productId=1657&categoryId=78

Friday, May 6, 2011

Eames Lounge Chair

The Eames Lounge Chair represents the pinnacle of modern design.  Originally designed in 1956 as a birthday present for the hollywood director Billy Wilder it since has reached iconic status and now sits in its permanent home at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in NYC.

Over the past year we have had the pleasure of being caretakers to an original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman in our store (consignment).  Since that time I have grown attached to it's quite beauty and strength.  Like a beautiful painting it draws people of all ages to it's soft seat.  Don't be fooled by it's simplicity and grace.  This piece commands attention.  No one can walk by this chair without commenting on its beauty . Even children who have never heard of Eames fall to its powers.

Sometimes when you live with a piece you tend to take it for granted and forget how special it is.  The Eames Lounge never dulls.  Everyday I walked into my store I marveled at its design.  Everyday I found another reason to look & love it even more.  I have to be honest, when some of my customers would visit the store and sit on my chair I would get a rush of overprotectiveness like a parent with a child.

Now, since it sold, letting it go will be bittersweet.  I am glad to see it go to owners that will respect its heritage and honor its name.  As collectors of classic modern furniture they know of it worth and will take care of the chair like one of their own children.  If I ever go to visit their house I know I will still refer to it as my Eames Lounge Chair.  It will never leave me and I can only hope to one day afford a piece of my own.


The irony of owning a modern furniture store is that sometimes you're lucky or unlucky enough to offer pieces you cannot afford.  One day, when the store becomes more successful, I will make the endeavor to posses my own Eames Lounge Chair.  It will be my Porsche.  It will be my Ferrari.  It will be my mistress. 

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Home Accents Today Retail Star for 2011



It's true. Hipster Home has been voted one of Home Accents Today Magazine Top 50 Retail Stars for 2011. Official press release:

Hipster Home is honored for retailing excellence by Home Accents Today magazine

May 4, 2011, Greensboro, N.C. – Hipster Home, owned by David Friday and Lindsay Herman, and located at 237 Bridge Street in Phoenixville, Pa., has been named one of Home Accents Today’s 50 Retail Stars for 2011 by editors of the premier trade magazine for the home accents industry. The stores selected for the list have demonstrated that they operate successfully in their marketing areas, exhibit strength in merchandising, display and/or advertising, and have a positive presence in their local communities.

“The 2011 Retail Stars represent some of the best independent stores in the country,” said Jenny Heinzen York, editor in chief. “In a harsh economic climate where mere survival has equaled success for many, this year’s Stars have faced down the challenges with innovation, creativity and fortitude. We salute these inspiring entrepreneurs, and as always, encourage everyone to support their own local businesses.”

The 50 Retail Stars feature, sponsored by Americasmart Atlanta, is published in the May 2011 issue of Home Accents Today. - Sue Dickenson (Home Accents Today Editor)


Sunday, May 1, 2011

The Little Queen of Love is born!



Yes it's true. Your favorite Queen (The Queen of Love) has given birth to the Little Queen of Love Chair and man is she cute. You still get all the same detailed scroll work. You still get the same spin molded single injection seamless piece of art. And you still get FREE SHIPPING from Hipster Home direct to your door. The pint size version of our very popular Queen of Love Chair is available in 6 brilliant colors including Candy Pink, Ethereal Blue, Pure Green, Simple White, Purple Sunset and Red Passion (for now). These new pups are already very popular and there's quite a waiting list developing. If you want your Little Queen then you'll have to put your order in now to get on that mid-June shipment so you're sure to get one. The Little Queen will retail for $495 delivered. If you snooze you'll lose and we never BS you. Our free shipping is really FREE. Contact the store for details to get your name on that list NOW at 610.917.0121