etch a sketch | Lasertron’s etched stainless steel backsplashes look great in modern or traditional kitchens, and they’re completely customizable, providing endless design options. From $35 per square foot, (954) 846-8600, lasertrondirect.com.
TIMELESS BEAUTY | These handmade Vieuxtemps Porcelain flowers would look lovely on a windowsill or kitchen table, and last a lifetime. $325–$1,950, at Boxwood Interiors, New Canaan, (203) 972-1010, boxwoodinteriors.com.
cut it out | The remodeled Classic knives from Wüsthof feature new blade angles to reduce drag, new handles for a more comfortable and surer grip, and of course, the superior craftsmanship the company has maintained for nearly 200 years. Seven Piece Block Set, $299.99, Cooks Nook, Norwalk, (203) 831-8777, wusthof.com.
PERFECT PAIR | Ralph Lauren’s Pomegranate china and metallic Delma napkins will wow your guests at Sunday brunch. Napkin, $45, pitcher, $200, and serving tray, $150, Ralph Lauren Home, Greenwich, (203) 869-2054, ralphlaurenhome.com.
BEAUTIFUL BAMBOO | The Bamboo floors from BR111 come in a range of colors and styles, but all offer an exotic elegance that would look gorgeous in any home. As shown, $6.29 per square foot, The Carpet Fair, Danbury, (203) 748-2478, and BR111.com.
brew meister | The Nespresso capsule system from Miele allows you to sip multiple varieties of coffee throughout the day, depending on what brew suits your mood. The machine also makes espresso and cappuccino, and steams milk for lattes. $2,399–$2,599, Marsillio’s TV & Appliance, Fairfield, (203) 366-7541, and Aitoro Appliance, Norwalk, (203) 847-2471, mieleusa.com.
KITSCHY COOK”WEAR” | These adorable aprons from Shabby Apple will make you look like a 21st-century Donna Reed. Get cooking, gorgeous! “Blueberry Pie” style, $35, shabbyapple.com.
room service | Even if you aren’t a guest of a Relais & Châteaux hotel, you can still dine like one. Renowned chefs of the North American branches, including Daniel Boulod and Patrick O’Connell, have come together to create two cookbooks, 85 Inspirational Chefs and Chefs at Home. $90 for the set, relaischateaux.com.
grab a seat | The Marais counter stool from Design Within Reach is just one of many in its fabulous selection. We especially love it in this rich red. $285, Greenwich, (203) 422-2013, and Westport, (203) 227-9707, dwr.com.
YOU’RE BENCHED | This customizable bench from details would be a great addition to the mudroom off the kitchen. Use the removable baskets to store boots, hats and gloves, or accessories for Fido. E-mail inquiries to lindy@detailseast.com, or call (203) 869-6764.
LOCAL BEAUTIES | Nice House (The Monacelli Press) by architect Samuel G. White highlights a diverse mix of livable, beautiful homes and features five Connecticut abodes. $45, Elm Street Books, New Canaan, (203) 966-4545, and amazon.com.
HOT POTS | With the KitchenAid ® Architect™ Clad cookware set, you’ll get pro-style pots and pans that are also lightweight and subtly stylish. $450 for the 10-piece set, available at Macy’s, Trumbull, (203) 374-7200, and Milford, (203) 877-9393, macys.com.
This article appears in the January 2011 issue of Cottages & Gardens.