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Refresh this summer with Blu Moon Café

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Despite the dog days of summer Blu Moon Café has become a hot spot by offering up a refreshing oasis from the sultry weather. What better way to quench your thirst or satiate hunger than a Blu Moon summer specialty. We stopped in with Blu Moon Café to see how they’re keeping their customers cool.

With a new summer menu and tasty treats Blu Moon has a lot to offer while you bask in the summer sun. The available local microbrew, Sangria, or Saki  Bloody Mary provide the perfect summer beverage. While new menu items like Gazpacho, Open Face Heirloom Tomato Caprese, and Ceviche Salad are the perfect taste of summer.

“Most people prefer lighter meals during the summer,” owner Shelley Jordan stated. “We’re offering healthier food that doesn’t weigh you down.” Even the weekly ice cream, chocolate torte, ice cream sandwiches and popsicles provide a healthier dessert dish.

Check out Blu Moon’s menu online to see popular summer items like The Californian, wraps, and the BBQ Shrimp Salad along with the rest of their mouth watering options.

Located in the Indiana Design Center, Blu Moon Café is open Monday through Friday 7am-6pm and Saturdays 7am to 3pm. The outdoor patio area is the perfect place to relax and refresh during the summer months. Don’t fret though, Blu Moon also offers indoor seating for those hot and humid summer days.

Stop in and experience Blu Moon Café for yourself. And after you’ve enjoyed the café, we invite you to swing through the IDC to see what’s new in our retail showrooms.

North Magazine Open House

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The Indiana Design Center was recently featured in the June/July issue of NORTH Magazine. The popular publication reaches Fishers, Carmel and northern Indianapolis homes and  the feature article introduced readers to many of the IDC’s newest showroom merchants like Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs, Holder Mattress, Drapery Street, Premier, Outré, Ferguson and others.

The individual business owners and leaders told the story of the IDC throughout the article and Lauren Taylor of Holder Mattress summed it up quite well as she shared her thoughts, “There are huge benefits for us and our customers; the tenants in this building have really come together.  We show each other’s products, share clients and ideas and collaborate on projects.  At Holder Mattress we show lighting from Ferguson, upholstery from Outré and bedding from Trade Source.  You’ll find one of our mattresses in Drapery Street and many other projects are in the works.”   Wow. So, if it sounds like there is a lot going on at the IDC, it’s because there is and that is why NORTH magazine and the IDC partnered to host an open house event to share what the IDC and NORTH industry partners have to offer.

Click to download the IDC feature in the June/July 2011 issue of NORTH Magazine (http://www.indianadesigncenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/June-July-2011-North-Special-Section.pdf)

The event was held on June 23rd and enjoyed by hundreds of visitors! Merchants from within the Indiana Design Center opened their doors while outside vendors were given the opportunity to display their products within the facility as well. Winner Hardware, Sassy Green Interiors, Garvey-Simon Art Access, Classic Cleaners, CASE, J.L. Stadler Artisans, Kilpatrick Traditions, Outré, Premier Group, ESP Business Furnishings, One-Touch Automation, Circle City Copperworks and Decor 4 Kids were among the participating vendors. Elizabeth Omeara Ahlgrim and Kahn’s Catering also contributed to the event.

The open house enabled guests to peruse a variety of home interior businesses within the Indianapolis design community. Those that attended dined on food from Sullivan’s Steakhouse, refreshments from Sun King Brewery, and desserts from Heavenly Sweets (cake balls, to be specific!).

For more information about NORTH feel free to check out their website at www.indynorthmag.com. To stay updated on community events hosted at Indiana Design Center, visit our online events calendar, Twitter and Facebook pages.

Special thanks to NORTH and all of the vendors that produced such a wonderful event. We also enjoyed meeting many new faces that we hope to see again soon!

April Willy: Fine Art Inspirations

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April Willy has captured the hearts of Hoosiers through her whimsical paintings and children’s book illustrations.  “My art evokes a sense of peacefulness,” Willy said.  “The physical act of painting is very calming for me, and I think that effect comes through to those who view my art.”  Willy strategically paints in ‘themed’ collections.  Her windswept series aims to capture blurred action, while her latest circular series focuses around smooth and cohesive design.  Willy is also an illustrator, proudly contributing eight children’s books to date including Why is Mommy Sleeping and Three Cups. Willy has been awarded the National Society of Illustrators Merit Award for her illustrations.  For her fine art, she has also been the recipient of the American Women Artist Award and Best Contemporary Work at the Hoosier Salon, among others.

We stopped into April’s studio to see what she has been up to this summer and found she continues to work on her circular series of fine art as well as illustrations for another children’s book.

Below are a few of April’s latest creations from both her windswept and circular series. For more information about April Willy’s work check out the Indiana Design Center website, her website at http://www.aprilwilly.com or video on IDC-TV.

Another Place & Time

Burning Bushes

Cloud Fiesta

Cool Breeze

Gossip

Passive Resistance

Scolding Wind

Whiffet

Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs Grand Opening!

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The new Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs showroom is now open at the Indiana Design Center!  You are welcome to join the team as they celebrate their opening with an all-day Open House.  Invitation and special offer is below.

The new Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs showroom opened in May 2011 and is dedicated to the latest in home fashion, offering carpet, area rugs, ceramic and stone tile, hardwood flooring and resilient flooring. Visitors to the showroom find leading brands like Masland, Fabrica, Shaw Industries and Mohawk as well as a tile and hardwood galleries with leading brands and products from around the world.

“Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs is part of Jack Laurie Group, which has been installing and maintaining flooring throughout Indiana since 1950 and will join several other family-owned and Indiana-based businesses like Santarossa, Holder Mattress Company and Outré located at the Indiana Design Center,” said Melissa Averitt, Vice President and Director of Marketing and Sales for Pedcor Companies.  “We are very proud that Jack Laurie Group identified the Indiana Design Center as the right place to expand their strong residential flooring operation into the Indianapolis market; their breadth of product, well-trained and experienced staff, and vested interest in Indiana’s design community create a perfect fit for the Indiana Design Center,” said Averitt.

“Our 5,000-square-foot showroom offers everything designers and our clients need to transform flooring selections into a statement in the home,” said Tony Wright, Director of Residential Services for Jack Laurie Home Floor Designs.  “The new showroom is paired with the strong customer service and project management for which we have become known in our Fort Wayne showroom and state-wide commercial operations.  We are eager to officially open our doors on June 23.”

Become a fan on Facebook.

Walter Knabe Art Exhibit & Demonstration

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Last weekend, May 26th to 28th, Walter Knabe opened his studio in the Indiana Design Center to the public for an art exhibit and demonstration. The event, presented by “modernmasters fine art & brokerage“, enabled guests to experience an inside look at his extraordinary work.

Known for his handmade fabrics and wall coverings, Walter Knabe combines past and present in a fusion of imagery and design through his unique screen-printed creations. Without the use of machines, Walter Knabe makes each of his designs and paint by hand through an uncommon screen-printing technique.

Walter Knabe and his assistant, Sydney Webb.

Guests who attended the event mingled prior to the demonstration while they dined on refreshments and admired his work. With the help of his assistant, Sydney Webb, he demonstrated the step-by-step process of his creations. Those who attended the event were able to inquire about the screen-printing process, his artistic vision and expertise – a rare opportunity with a world-renowned artist!

Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

Sydney Webb demonstrating a screen-printing technique for wall coverings.

Walter Knabe gave a first hand look into his creative process.

After the demonstration guests asked quetions about the art.

To see more photos from the event check out the full album on our Facebook page or experience Walter Knabe’s work for yourself at his website http://www.walterknabe.com/

Walter Knabe's studio located in the Indiana Design Center.

A model, Morgan Sheets, shown in some of Walter Knabe's pieces attended the event.

Among others a self-portrait of Walter Knabe was on display for the event.

Sophisticated Living Launch Party

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Those that attended the event enjoyed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres from local establishments like Blu Moon Cafe, Woody's Library Restaurant, Joe's Butcher Shop and Holy Cow Cupcakes.

The Indiana Design Center was full of life last Tuesday, May 17th for the launch of Sophisticated Living Magazine in Indianapolis. Founded by Bridget and Eric Williams, the introduction of the magazine was a tremendous success.

Establishing itself as a premier publication the brand was proud to celebrate the addition of the Indianapolis, Indiana edition alongside its existing Lexington, Louisville and Cincinnati editions. Published six times a year, with monthly columns on fine homes and gardens, wines, antiques, dining, travel, motoring, jewelry, art, fashion and society events.

The event itself was attended by over 500 guests. Throughout the night attendees were able to peruse the Indiana Design Center’s numerous showrooms, experience refreshments and music, and watch a live broadcast interviewing industry leaders from fashion, design and music. Experience the magazine for yourself, click the online link to see Sophisticated Living’s website or check out the full album and “like” Sophisticated Living on Facebook.

Publishers Bridget and Eric Williams at the launch party for Sophisticated Living.

Photo courtesy of www.thedesignfile.net

Tom Wood Automotive Group showcased a Ferrari at the grand entrance.

A favorite from the evening catered by Blu Moon Cafe.

Helen Wells models mingled in outfits styled by 8Fifteen and Raleigh Limited Menswear. Hair and makeup done by Salon 01.

Reis Nichols provided a jewelry display for guests to view and even purchase.

Ippolita styles were showcased by Reis Nichols.

Exotic and contemporary florals by McNamara Florist.

Many cupcakes for all from Holy Cow Cupcakes.

A pianist performed for the duration of the event from Meridian Music.

A chef demonstration was given by Greg Hardesty, chef and propietor at Recess, in Ferguson's showroom.

Gift bags were given to all of the attendees at the end of the night.

We are looking forward to the July / August issue!

Winner Hardware Specialties Recaps the 2011 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show

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This post is written by J.D. Nesbitt of Winner Hardware Specialties.

The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is put on by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and the Kitchen and Bath Business (K+BB).  It is the largest international trade show in the world and is all about every aspect of kitchens and baths.  The show is geared towards kitchen and bath dealers, designers, architects, remodelers, wholesalers and custom builders.  The show is always full of the latest in products and design with a keen eye on the latest trends.

KBIS 2011 was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center with nearly 600 exhibitors in attendance.  Numbers have yet to be released regarding the attendees; however, we can safely report that attendance seems high as aisles were packed throughout most of the show.  The economy of the recent years has affected the industry and its affect is obvious.  Leased space for the show was down this year when compared to KBIS 2007, the last trip to Las Vegas, and many exhibitors utilized smaller booths as a way to help ease costs.  Even so, the show seemed to be a great success and was a great informative and networking trip for us.

During the show, several products captured our attention, some from our current manufacturers and some from new manufacturers as well.  Here are the products that impressed us the most.

Impressive Products from KBIS:

HealthCraft’s Invisia Collection

Healthcraft is well-known in home healthcare showrooms; but their foray into decorative hardware showrooms is a relatively new experience.  Their booth was attention grabbing in its simplicity.

There was just enough to make you step in and say, “What is it?” What they’ve developed is a line of contemporary styled bathroom accessories, soap dishes, towel bars and the like, that just happen to have grab bars integrated.  It’s a great way to provide the support and stability needed in grab bars, without making the bathroom look like a hospital.  These products are great not only for those currently requiring them; but also for Aging in Place designs.  It’s a great innovation in the industry.

Courtesy of www.healthcraftproducts.com

Courtesy of www.healthcraftproducts.com

Rocky Mountain Hardware’s Designer Textures

Rocky Mountain Hardware has long been the forefront of quality bronze hardware.  Previously, their Designer Textures Collection included hardware with various colors and textures of leather inserts in the rosettes and back plates.  Unveiled at KBIS was their new Designer Textures Collection.  This collection takes all the best aspects of the original collection and ups the ante with solid bronze textures.  There are seven stylish designs with patterns ranging from a faux-bois wood grain pattern to a symmetrical tufted pattern.  The collection is available in nine different patina finishes and the look can be customized by specifying different finishes for the escutcheon frame, textured plate, handle and lock, allowing for numerous combinations of textures and colors for the perfect solution for your client.

Courtesy of www.rockymountainhardware.com

Courtesy of www.rockymountainhardware.com

Top Knobs Passport Collection

The new Passport Collection from Top Knobs offers several sub-collections of hardware, inspired by world-famous architecture.  Destinations such as the Wall of China, Australia’s Sydney Opera House, London’s Tower Bridge and Rome’s Trevi Fountain are just a few of the hardware’s inspirations.  The Trevi Fountain series was previewed during KBIS with the rest of the collection released in pairs over time.  List pricing will range from a modest $4.75 up to 91.50 per piece.  It’s a beautiful collection and a great way to bring a touch of worldly charm to a space. Winner Hardware Specialties will be displaying these collections in the coming months.

Courtesy of www.topknobusa.com

 

Courtesy of www.topsknobsusa.com

 

Looking Ahead to KBIS 2012

As the excitement of KBIS 2011 dies down, we are already looking forward to KBIS 2012, to be held at McCormick Place in Chicago, April 27-29.  The excitement builds already as HGTV’s own Candice Olsen will serve as next year’s keynote speaker!  It looks to be a great show, made even better by its close proximity to Indianapolis.  It’s worth a trip to check out the show and get the latest innovations in kitchen and bath products.

IDC Hits 90% Leased!

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Eckert-Wright Art & Design, Gradison Design-Build and Outdoor Environments Group
to Open in May

It’s with great excitement that we announce Eckert-Wright Art & Design, Gradison Design-Build, and Outdoor Environments Group (OEG) will soon join the IDC. The three businesses represent key facets of the design industry, Art & Design, Custom Homes and Remodeling and Landscape Architecture, further adding to the extent of resources available for one’s home at the Indiana Design Center and nearing the building to a 100% leased rate.

“The Indiana Design Center continues to take shape as construction on the first floor, retail showrooms near completion and with businesses like Ferguson, Holder Mattress and J. Baker Interiors already open to the public. Serious negotiations are underway for the remaining space,” said Melissa Averitt, Vice President and Director of Marketing and Sales for Pedcor Companies. “The strength and success of Design Center is driven by the tenancy and businesses like Eckert-Wright Art & Design, OEG and Gradison Design-Build are among the best our state has to offer,” continued Averitt.

“The convergence of art and design happening at the IDC and in the Arts & Design District is very attractive to the Eckert-Wright Art & Design gallery and makes the location a great fit. The first floor gallery will feature an eclectic mix of paintings and sculpture by regionally and nationally known artists, both traditional and modern, whose works span the 19th century to present. Among those are T.C. Steele, C. W. Mundy, Janet Scudder, Boaz Vaadia and internationally recognized Robert Rauschenberg, to name a few. We are very enthused to be introducing to the area two artists who are gleaning much national and international recognition, painter Eric Forstmann and sculptor Michael Kalish. We are also excited to offer and showcase antiques from R. Beauchamp Antiques, oriental rugs by Sarver’s, and provide interior design services,” said Dianne Wright of Eckert-Wright.

"Two Pears with Copper Pot" 2011 Studio Work by C.W. Mundy. Image from www.cwmundy.com.

"Asaf & Yo'ah" featured as public art at Broadway Mall on 117th Street in NYC. Photo from www.vaadia.com.

Both Gradison Design-Build and Outdoor Environments Group will be occupying space on the IDC’s second floor. “The second floor of the Indiana Design Center is an ideal location and provides a creative environment for us to collaborate with clients and designers. There are great resources to research and specify excellent solutions for our custom homes and remodeling projects. We look forward to sharing the energy of the Indian Design Center,” said Mark Gradison, Gradison Design- Build President.

Home by Gradison Design-Build.

Gradison Design-Build.

Home Interior by Gradison Design-Build.

“While many of the IDC’s showrooms cover home interiors, the home’s exterior is also very important. The services and products offered by Outdoor Environments Group & Indy Custom Pools truly help the IDC to be the comprehensive resource for design projects,” said Melissa Averitt. OEG owner, Chad Bruick, added “Through site analysis and careful design process we help our clients to see the potential of their outdoor space and then create that environment for them. Like other firms and design professionals in the building, we have a passion for what we do and look forward to sharing in this creative environment.”

Outdoor Environments Group / Indy Custom Pools

Outdoor Environments Group

Stay tuned to the blog and additional announcements about the official opening of each business!

Mitsch Design and the IIDA Indiana IDEA Celebration

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The IDC is very proud to announce Mitch Design’s prestigious recognition at the IIDA Indiana IDEA Celebration. The event celebrated Interior Design Excellence in 2011.

The Mitsch Design Team

The team at Mitsch Design won in the category of Residential and Multi-Family Dwellings Best Idea for The Lofts at Willow Creek.

“The space was designed to offer a balance between sophistication and convenience for each resident, no matter their demographic.  Contemporary furnishings, natural elements, and stunning views to the exterior, were all incorporated to provide the user with a venue to call home.”

The team representatives were as follows:
Design Team: Keith Cole, Dianna Zoch, Erin Sanford
Contractor: Allied Diversified Construction, Inc.
Photographer: Tony Frantz
Supporting Vendor: ESL Spectrum, Inc.
Supporting Vendor: Sensory Technologies

“Mitsch Design was also given the award of Best Idea in Sustainable design with the project for Bowen Engineering.  LEED Gold certification was achieved by designing the space with sustainable products, this included finishes and efficient MEP systems.  Existing furniture was relocated within the new space and natural light was utilized in exterior offices by providing occupancy sensors to monitor light values during work hours.”

The team representatives were as follows:
Design Team: Stephanie Grove-Burkhart, Erin Sanford
Contractor: Pepper Construction
Photographer: Jessica Ybarra
Supporting Vendor: Commercial Office Environments
Supporting Vendor: RJE Business Interiors

Congrats are also in order for IDC Advisory Board Member, Marika Klemm, who was awarded for a residential project and worked with incoming IDC showroom, Conceptual Kitchens & Millwork.

To see other awarded projects, visit the IIDA Indiana Chapter’s website.

“American Art Collector” Magazine Features Constance Edwards Scopelitis

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The IDC is proud to share that Constance Edwards Scopelitis is featured in the “Artist Focus” section of the March 2011 American Art Collector magazine.  The publication is coveted by art collectors, galleries and artists from across the country.  As seen in her work and elegantly stated by the magazine’s editor, “There is an identifiable thread that exists through the figurative paintings of Constance Edwards Scopelitis, who consistently renders the human form with accuracy.”  The article continues, “Whether she is painting a monumental portrait, a narrative painting with abstract and ethereal qualities or a pop culture mixed-media piece, the figure rules.”

A view from inside the studio.

Constance is represented by ModernMasters Fine Art & Brokerage in their Indy Contemporary division, which features work of established artists with their studios in Indianapolis.  Constance has her studio in the Indiana Design Center where she works on her canvas paintings, surrounded by color, pop culture, client portraits and more.

As mentioned in the article, Constance has been accepted to the first ever Art Naples fair which will run from March 18 to the 21st.

Visit ConstanceArt.com or her IDC Portfolio page.

March 2011 Cover

Coverage in American Art Collector, March 2011