At CMFTO, we have the privilege of helping our clients create spaces that serve as sanctuaries. One of our favorite ways to add surprising and delightful touches to your home? Layering in one-of-a-kind, artisan items.
With nearly 25 years in the industry, our founder Claudia McLaughlin specializes in curating unique pieces that complement your existing treasures. Here, we’re sharing some of her favorite resources — from an award-winning glass artist to boutiques from coast to coast.
Claudia was visiting a Seattle art gallery in 2016 when she met local maker Julie Conway, who creates bespoke illuminated glass installations at her studio, Illuminata Art Glass Design. The rest is history! We previously featured Julie and a gorgeous bespoke chandelier we commissioned for a client’s foyer. We adore Julie’s eco-friendly designs — and we’re thrilled to share that she recently won a [d]arc award for exceptional lighting design for her sustainable glass eco pendant.
Courtesy: [d]arc awards
Courtesy: [d]arc awards
Across the country, or in and around Chicago, we’re always on the lookout for fresh, appealing designs. We also love visiting tried and true resources, which regularly refresh their stock of artisanal items.
In Los Angeles, florist Kvitkova Vanil is a perennial favorite for fresh, seasonal blooms. Pro tip: Assemble your own custom bouquet or have one designed for you. Mud Australia is another wonderful LA resource, specializing in elegant yet simple porcelain homewares in stunning hues — the perfect everyday luxury. Midland Shop and Tortoise General Store are two additional LA stores with beautiful artisan items. (We love the Midland Shop’s bright plaid, handwoven dinner napkins — a lovely summer housewarming gift.)
No courtesy needed
Courtesy: Mud Australia
Courtesy: Midland Shop
Year-round, we source new and vintage pieces from Chicago stores but always look forward to their spring and summer collections. Pink & Tan in Evanston is an independent design store that never disappoints, offering lovely pops of saturated color for your home. In Winnetka, Hazel James Home features a beautifully edited selection of handmade, bespoke, and vintage items. Leaning into the beauty of Nordic and Japanese design, Moth centers its collection on nature and simplicity.
Courtesy: Pink & Tan
Courtesy: Pink & Tan
Courtesy: Hazel James Home
Finally, New York City offers an amazing range of art, textiles, and objects for the home. Founded in St. Barth’s in 2008, Clic’s Soho location (one of 12) features decor and lifestyle items that are beautifully displayed. At Michele Varian in Brooklyn, the designer’s own lighting, wallpaper, and pillows share space with an edited selection of accessories and ceramics by other artisans — definitely worth a stop!
Courtesy: Clic
Courtesy: Michele Varian
We hope this post has offered you a bit of inspiration to style your home for summer. At CMFTO, we always enjoy sourcing one-of-a-kind items that enhance our clients’ spaces. As always, our team would be happy to help you with any interior design needs you may have!