At least twice a year, I make the trek back East to visit family and friends. One of those times is always the summer, and due to the heat and humidity (that I am no longer use to) I typically stay at the Jersey Shore where the temperatures are much cooler and I continue a summer tradition that was part of most of my life. However, this visit, I ventured to the Big Apple, to visit more friends and steal a few moments to do a little shopping.

The Plank Floor Lamp and the Plank Table Lamp.

Light at the End of the Summer

So to cool off from summer’s city heat, I stepped into the refreshing Michele Varian on Howard Street.  Michele Varian is a treasure trove of unique objects, whimsical pieces of art and distinct home furnishings. Among all of the compelling objects, large and small, The Plank Light piqued my interest.  Its timber plank base is made of solid Chinese elm wood and is situated in a tripod formation that seems balanced and asymmetrical all at the same time.  Its rough-hewn finish has a natural sense of sophistication.  The 16-inch diameter simple shade, available in black or sand, complements the natural base while encouraging a modern aesthetic.  The Plank Table Lamp measures 22 inches tall and the Plank Floor Lamp measures 63 inches tall, both have an exposed cord and a step-switch on the floor.

Through Soho and into Little Italy, this short adventure was filled with design-inspired sights that made me never want to leave.  I’m already looking forward to my next Big Apple visit.

About Michele Varian
Michele Varian, located in New York City, is distinct retailer with an interesting collection made up of furniture, lighting, tabletop, glassware, art, jewelry and home accessories.  Michele Varian, the owner, also has her own collection of home accessories and handbags. She studied fashion design at Parsons in New York City and designs her own line of products. Her unique sense of innovative construction is incorporated into her Michele Varian decorative pillow collection.  Michele’s education in fashion, interest in world travel and hands-on experience in interior renovation influences her sense of selecting one-of-a-kind objects and collections for the Michele Varian store.