Decorating & Design
September 16, 2015
Editor’s Picks: Kai Ethier’s South American-Style Finds Under $50

Right now, the South American trend in design and decorating shows no signs of slowing down — which is just fine by me! Pieces in warm, vibrant colors are an easy way to bring life to neutral rooms, while charming embroidery and artisanal forms have a rustic beauty that I love.
Want to shop the trend without breaking the bank? Here are my top picks in stores now — all cashing in under $50.

Toronto’s Cambie Design carries the most gorgeous Peruvian pillows, blankets and rugs (and all their stuff is available online). I’m loving this brightly colored wool cushion cover. It would make a great accent on a neutral chair or sofa.

I’m a big fan of Indigo’s Artisanal dinnerware line. I have a set of the handcrafted stoneware plates and bowls at home, and would love to add this serving bowl to my collection. It’s such a simple, lovely piece — too nice to stay hidden in the cupboard. I’d keep this guy out on the kitchen table.

Another tabletop item that caught my eye recently are these cotton napkins from Pehr Designs. I find a little embroidery can go a long way, and I particularly like this simple yellow needlework.

These hand-painted candlesticks from Brooklyn design studio Good Thing are an easy pick — aside from which of the 5 colors to choose. I’m leaning toward the fresh green ones, but you could also go for a deep orange or punchy yellow pair.

My last find comes from Ikea, who’ve knocked it out of the park recently with their limited edition Sittning collection. I especially love this mouth-blown vase: its warm, orangey-pink color and artisanal shape are a beautiful, yet subtle nod to the South American trend.