This year the itch is a little bit stronger than usual (maybe it was that crisp fall-ish weather we had a few weeks ago?).. So, to curb my academic appetite I’ve made a back-to-school-wishlist-even-though-I’m-not-actually-going-back-to-school. That works, right? Just go with it.

First off, the desk. The Cant Desk by Blu Dot to be more specific. I am in love with this desk. Would ya look at those details?

Up close and personal with the Cant Desk by Blu Dot.

The perforated, red metal paired with the walnut drives me wild! In a good way.. In the best way. It’s neutral enough, but still packs a little punch. Plus, the two-tiered work surface adds a little more space for storage/organization.

Next on the list is the chair… This one is hard for me. I bounce back and forth between style and comfort… form and function.

At work, I use the SAYL chair by Herman Miller, and I’ve grown quite fond of it. It’s flexible, comfy, and can be completely customized. Oh, and did I mention it’s on wheels? Super convenient.

However, my spaces tend to get very cluttered very quickly, so simple lines and sharp colors help to minimize some of the visual chaos and maximize room for imagining and brainstorming.

Clean and simple, the Eames molded plastic armchair in white pairs well with any desk.

The Eames molded plastic armchair from Herman Miller has an elegant, effortless contour which easily compliments any space. And! it comes in some great colors like red, black, sparrow (which is probably the best alternative name for ‘grey’), aqua, and white. I’m not sure which I’d choose.. Maybe red. Probably white. Let’s keep it crisp, people.

And now it is time to accessorize.

Every space needs light, right? I am a firm believer that lighting can really make a space. It can add character, or have character.. Hopefully both! Two of my favorite task lights certainly do.

First up is the Link LED task light from Pablo.

Get funky with the Link LED task light family!

Isn’t it cute?! It’s pretty much the real life version of the little light that jumps around at the beginning of Pixar movies. And let’s be honest… Who doesn’t want an adorable little light hanging out on their desk?

Speaking of adorable little lights..

Meet mr. n...

Let’s talk about mr. n, my other favorite illuminator. This fantastic little LED arch sits about 7.5″ high and is complete with a dimming function. What more  could you ask for? The negative space just begs for some tiny figurines or something. Let your imagination run free.

My second favorite accessories besides lights (and shoes, but don’t even get me started) are bags. Bags are a great opportunity to make the most of both form and function.

For the ladies, I am partial to the Dot Fox organic tote. It’s a great over the shoulder bag – throw in your laptop, some chapstick, maybe a banana and you’re ready to roll.

Just the right amount of whimsy with the Dot Fox organic tote.

And for the gents, I’m drooling over the Gustav messenger bag. Really, I’m drooling over this bag for everyone and anyone..

Gustav in denim, looking sharp.

It’s a crossbody available in wax-coated canvas or denim with Italian, vegetable-tanned leather details. There is basically a pocket/place for every item you’ll need while on the move. Hopping on your bike to head to class? Walking to the office? Catching the bus to the studio? Perfect, grab Gustav and let’s go!

So, if you need a light for your dorm room or a desk for your new apartment… Or if you just need to satiate that back-to-school craving, come visit us at The Century House! We’ve got lots of great ideas to share with you.

A number of years ago, however, American Leather set out to make the best, oxymoron-free, sofa sleepers on the market, and they succeeded. Now they’ve improved upon their award-winning design. For starters, they redesigned the sleeper mechanism, so it pulls out with greater ease. And, unbelievably, they’ve found more space. The sofas are smaller than before but they still fit their standard mattresses. Each of the 12 models feature a full range of sleeper and stationary pieces, from a simple chair up to a king-size sleeper. You can create a large sectional for your family room or a cozy loveseat for your office.

Other features that make American Leather sleepers so appealing remain: all beds are 80” in length; under-sofa dust covers protect that luxurious mattress; and lots of beautiful fabrics and leather from which to choose. And, as always, they use high-quality materials, like high-density foam on a solid platform, so it will never sag. And I mean never. I was a bit skeptical, so when they dropped off the first model in our showroom, I spent 10 minutes jumping on it. No sag, but I did get a lot of strange looks.

I know a few of you out there are thinking, “But I always find foam beds too firm. I prefer something softer.” I get it. I like a firm seat cushion, but when it comes to my bedtime, I want something a little plusher. American Leather has thought of us, too. The new Gel mattress is softer, but still feels supportive. Regardless of your preference, one of the three American Leather mattress options is sure to please – ideal for when your guests are, as George would say, alone together.

Order this September and get another $300 off. Come by our showroom and decide for yourself.

Walking through the Fritz Hansen showroom was like being heaved into the past and rocketed into the future all at once. The range of products evoked curiosity, induced epiphanies, and provided inspiration as our Dane moved confidently throughout the showroom, answering our every question and filling in the details with unending facts and figures. The Republic of Fritz Hansen got its breakthrough during the 1950’s when they brought Arne Jacobsen on board as a designer.

The Ant Chair

The Series 7 Chair

Jacobsen created The Ant Chair, which later led to the continuous success of the Series 7 Chair. The Swan Chair and Egg Chair were major successes as well, both of which were originally designed for the Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. The Egg Chair’s shape was perfected by Jacobsen as he molded clay endlessly in his own garage. The showroom was as much a tribute to Arne Jacobsen as it was a display of furniture’s most timeless pieces.

The Swan, designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1958.

The Egg Chair

Lucky for me, I went from studying abroad in Scandinavia to interning at a Scandinavian furniture store in the heart of Madison, WI! And doubly lucky for me, The Century House just introduced The Republic of Fritz Hansen as our newest line!

Kaiser Idell Luxus Lamp

The Little Friend Table

My co-workers and I now share the same excitement I felt when first laying eyes on these beautiful products.In addition to the classics mentioned above, The Century House is proud to now carry the Swan Sofa, the Dot Stool, the Little Friend Table, and the Kaiser Idell Luxus Table Lamp. We’d love for your next field trip to be to The Century House to see the new Fritz Hansen line.

Well, I’m being realistic in that the clock is a malleable detail of that delusion, right?

IDEA Bird Clock

Ok, so how about this: I awake from my slumber, stretch my arms, say good morning to the singing birds, and tell them to get lost so I can see this…

Slip Watch

Or maybe one of these…

IDEA Wooden Clocks

Normann Copenhagen Watch Me Clock

To be realistic, I find myself not as concerned with the actual time of day so much as how it’s presented.  I can’t help it; pretty packaging is tempting to this princess of the modern age.   But, all looks aside, I justify my timepiece fascination by saying that it’s faster to glance at my wrist (or at the wall) than to dig in my pocket for my phone.  Bottom line, time efficiency equals more time for sleep, and that is music to this sleeping beauty’s ears.

TRIWA Yellow Lomin Watch

For more information on the timepieces shown or to see even more of what we offer, please contact our Gift Shop.

Noon Watch

Lemnos Clock

Kartell tic tac Clock

Outdoor Furniture Spotted: This ceramic stool looked beautiful in the garden all summer, and after the flowers faded, it can still reside in your favorite place -- now indoors--to enjoy your morning coffee.

Outdoor Furniture Spotting: Already a savvy space saver with an Innovation Sleeper in the spare room, using this outdoor stool as a coffee table saves storage space (and adds a much needed pop of color for winter).

Outdoor Furniture Spotting: Kid's rooms and outdoor furniture can be the best of friends. If it's made to handle the conditions, it should be able to handle a ten year old, right? Durable, washable and colorful makes this combination a win-win.

If you still aren't convinced, there are options for outdoor furniture that can be left out year round... just don't forget that it's there and accidentally run it over with the snow mobile... hypothetically speaking of course... (don't worry, the story has a happy ending)

Starting to feel the creative juices flowing?  Check out this link for more: outdoor furniture.  And feel free to ask if you need suggestions or if you’d just like to hear the outcome of the snow mobile story.

Happy Outdoor Furniture Shopping!

Here is some furniture that can make the most out of each square foot.

The Skovby SM 101 Multi-Function Table offers several sizes and options within one small table/storage unit! Two leaves operate individually to create a table for 2 or 4 people. Put both leaves down to create an extremely compact unit that can be used as a buffet or console table. The center of the unit houses a reversible insert that allows you to choose from a wood or stainless steel surface. A storage drawer with metal shelves can hold drinks, condiments or other items. This table doubles as a perfect desk or work surface for one or more people! When not in use, simply put the leaves down and store against a wall, behind a sofa or in a hallway. A great example of super smart design.

Skovby SM 101 Multi-Function Table being used as a desk with one side extended.

Skovby SM 101 Multi-Function Table being used for dining with both sides extended.

When it’s time to pick out dining chairs to go with your Multifunction Table (or other small dining table), consider stacking chairs. Stacking chairs can be stored easily when not in use without taking up a lot of space. The Air Chair by Magis is durable and light weight with a lot of color options. These chairs can also be used outdoors! The Eames Molded Plastic Stacking Chair is a mid-century classic that is available in many fun color options. Pick one color or mix a few!

The Eames Molded Plastic Stacking Chair by Herman Miller shown in Aqua Sky. A great way to add a pop of color to your space!

Magis Air Chairs neatly stacked for storage. The Air Chair is also available as an arm chair!

The new Semblance Collection by BDI is a shelving system that offers practical and attractive solutions for entertainment, storage and work spaces. Countless configurations can be created with modular shelves, cabinets, desks and more. Configurations start at only 50″ in length. Vertical panels are available in natural walnut, cherry and espresso stained oak. The Semblance Collection utilizes height and well-designed add-ons to maximize storage potential in a small space.

This compact Semblance office unit provides shelving, a small desk with keyboard tray, a small storage drawer and a lateral file.

This Semblance shelving unit provides a large amount of display or open storage space. Four cabinets with etched black glass door front provide closed storage.

The Silenos Plus Sofa by Innovation easily converts into an extra bed. Perfect for a second bedroom or a living room sofa in a small home. Each side of the back operates independently with three possible positions: upright, partially reclined, or fully reclined to create a sleeping surface that can accommodate 1-2 people. Innovation offers many styles and sizes to choose from. To view more sofa options from Innovation, click here.

The Silenos Plus Sofa from Innovation offers flexibility, functionality and great value. Also available in a beige fabric option and without arms.

The Silenos Plus Sofa shown with one side of the back fully reclined. A matching chair extends one side of the sofa, creating a chaise.

You have to sleep somewhere and a bed can take up a lot of space! So make the most of your bed frame by adding storage. The Blu Dot Modu-licious Bed has 6 storage drawers built into the Full, Queen and King size beds (and 3 in the Twin size). A thin headboard and foot board ensure that your bed doesn’t take up more room than it needs to.

The Modu-licious Bed is available in several wood finishes and drawer colors. Storage drawers to the rescue!

These items are just a few of the solutions available for small spaces. If you need help designing your small space, contact us for design assistance!

In this article, I will discuss what I consider to be the five criteria of sofa shopping: comfort, design, size, quality and materials.  These criteria are important to keep in mind throughout your search.  Figure out which is most important to you, and start there.

Comfort
This one is pretty obvious.  You are going to sit on the sofa and if it’s in the most used room of the house, you probably want it to be comfortable!  So, make sure you spend plenty of time sitting while you shop.  Try to move towards sofas that make you say “Ahhhh” when you sit in them.  Also, if you are someone who likes to sit in a particular position, then try it out.  Not all of us like to sit properly, so trying out sofas while sitting in various positions is helpful.

Design
We all have our personal preferences.  If design is important to you, then rule out sofas that you find unattractive right away.  This will help narrow down your choices and guide you to sofas that you’ll be happy with.

Size
Many of us have to deal with smaller spaces.  Size limitations or requirements should be addressed right away.  When working with a limited space, take measurements before you start to shop.  If you are someone that likes to play around with furniture arrangements, check out our new room planner!

Many of us want to be able to seat a certain amount of people in our living spaces.  If you are looking to seat more than three, sectional options are definitely worth looking into.  The good news is that many of our sofas come in multiple sizes and have sectional options!  If you find a sofa you love, but it’s not the right size, always find out what the options are.

Quality
There is a huge range out there when it comes to quality and pricing.  Here at The Century House, we believe that a sofa is something that should last.  And when I say last, I mean for more than a few years.  Think about what you would like to get out of your sofa and how much that is worth to you.  In most cases, you get what you pay for.

Materials
A couple of things to think about: leather vs. fabric and wood legs vs. metal legs.  These are usually the two biggest obstacles when it comes to surface materials.  Some sofas will be available in leather or fabric, while others will have a more limited material selection.  Both leather and fabric have their advantages and disadvantages, so ask a salesperson if you’re not sure which one is right for you.  Some sofas will have multiple leg options, while others will not.  If you don’t love what you see, ask if there are other options available.

There are also internal materials to consider.  Many companies are now using soy-based foam in their furniture.  Eco-friendly options are sprouting up all of the time!  You also want to make sure that your sofa is built well and made using high quality materials.  Ultimately, this will determine whether or not the sofa will stand up to the test of time.

In the end, choosing the perfect sofa is a little bit like choosing the right person to be with.  There are many things to consider and options to weigh.  But sometimes it might just be love at first sight (or sit).  And going with your instincts is almost never a bad thing.

Are you ready for some color in your home?

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Whether you call it an end table, side table, occasional table, or even a nightstand or bedside table, these pieces are as interchangeable as their names. Who says your end table has to stay where it’s been living all winter?

Before you start thinking big-picture about your living room and those bad memories come flooding back of the last time you tried to lift your sofa. Stop. No other furniture has to relocate. This can be done in an afternoon and it is as easy as cleaning out a few drawers (which wouldn’t hurt anyway, right?).

Here are some tips to get the creative juices flowing:

1. Two (or more) can be better than one. Swap out your coffee table for two side tables.

2. Benches can be occasional tables too. Use in place of your coffee table and it doubles as more seating at parties.

3. Small tables are a great place to introduce colors, anywhere and everywhere. Putting your red end table in your bedroom could completely re-inspire the space.

4. Get over the idea that nightstands have drawers and side tables don’t. You may love having a convenient drawer to house your remotes and magazines rather than having them chill on the coffee table. “Androgynous” tables exist out there that successfully bridge the gap between the two.

5. Every transition takes a little time to get used to. When you become so familiar with something, it’s hard to see it out of context. Ask a friend, they’ll give you their honest take on your redo.

Try something new, and if it doesn’t work out, at the end of the day you will still end up with an organized drawer and a bicep workout. Happy rearranging!

To see more options, check out  “What’s Hot”.

Let’s start with what any self-respecting audio geek should judge loudspeakers by – sound: Parrots immerse you in 360 degrees of it. That’s because rather than generating a wall of sound, like conventional speakers, Parrots bounce sound off the walls, which means there’s virtually no bad place in the room for me to enjoy Zooey Deschanel (sigh). And when I’m listening to my Beastie Boys, the downward-firing woofer built into the base creates a righteous thump that makes “Brass Monkey” sound extra funky.

Parrot speakers are designed for compatibility with your iPhone and the latest generation of iPod and iPod Touch. Simply place your device in the docking station built atop one of the columns, and listen to your favorite tunes while recharging it. Then control your speakers and iPhone from your lounge chair using the remote control. Parrots can also stream music from computers and anything that’s Bluetooth-enabled. Bossa Nova Breakfast (iTunes radio) anyone?

Finally, Parrot loudspeakers are crafted with stylistic input from designer extraordinaire Philippe Starck. Colors include black, white, gray, red and lime green. The result is a modern, streamlined system that fits seamlessly into any home’s aesthetic – including The Century House, including yours.