Drab or Fab

If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed or email newsletter.

Though I’ve never been on a true sailboat, I love the feeling of being on the water. Whether it was a ride on the ferry between St. Thomas and St. John (Virgin Islands), a spin on a paddle boat at Magen’s Bay Beach, or a ride on the Staten Island ferry, the water has always welcomed me. That said, this particular use for sails may be a bit too much for my taste.

One decorating trend I’ve been seeing a lot of lately is birdcages. At first, I wasn’t too keen on the idea. Images of feather-filled pet store cages and old episodes of Looney Tunes featuring Tweety Bird being pursued by Sylvester the Cat came to mind. Not exactly something I would want to be reminded of every day. It took a while, but eventually, I was able to look past their function to their form. They really can be beautiful pieces of sculpture.

As I’ve mentioned in the past, I’m originally from the Caribbean, so I tend to fall head over heels for anything that reminds me of the ocean — sandy colors, coral patterns, beach stones…you name it. Still, this lamp falls on that really thin line. You know — the line between unusually fabulous and over-the-top gaudy.

I am drawn to its organic shape and the shade made of natural, fossilized cocoa leaves, as well as the whimsical nature of the gangly “tentacles.” Definitely not something you see every day. But while the natural and green versions might have a chance in my home, I draw the line at the multicolored lampshade. Reminds me too much of stained glass windows in an old church.