Welcome back, style queens. Sit back, mix a martini and enjoy. It's time for another Interior Motives.
Time to get yourself organized. Now that you are out of the closet, it's a mess in there, isn't it? Call the folks at The Closet Depot to help you out. They have everything you will need to finally get that cramped closet in tip-top shape. Perfect for office or home. Check out the ad in this section for some unbelievable deals. That's the Closet Depot, ( 847 ) 481-1010.
For not-your-typical-shopping-experience, discover Senses Gift Gallery in Wilmette on the North Shore, just two suburbs north of Chicago. This labor of love for a former ad agency creative director was started as a haven in which you can explore the senses, leave your daily cares behind and enter back into the world refreshed. And while you're enjoying yourself, find some wonderfully unusual gifts for almost anyone on your list. This earthy, chic store, in a partially restored 100-year-old pharmacy, is organized by the six senses: sight, sound, scent, touch, taste and thought. You'll find indoor water fountains, chimes, cuckoo clocks, Polish tapestries, European candle holders, relaxation and massage products, aromatherapy, luscious throws, delicious gourmet hostess gifts, thoughtful and whimsical books, jewelry, desk toys and pens. You'll find Senses at the corner of Wilmette and Central Avenue in Downtown Wilmette, ( 847 ) 256-1302.
Whether in the hills of Tuscany, the south of France, the English countryside or your own backyard, the good life should always be celebrated to its fullest. Let Vintage Pine help you do just that with La Dolce Vita, Sept. 19-22. This fantastic fair blends European-style home furnishings such as pine farmhouse tables from England and antique fruitwood armoires from the south of France. Top it all off with delicious Italian fare and you have the makings of a spectacular event! Vintage PIne is located at 904 W. Blackhawk in Chicago. For more information, call ( 312 ) 943-9303. This blending of wares from Vintage Pine and other select galleries creates a unique shopping experience for antique and art hunters alike.
Meanwhile, over at Lill Street Art Center, they are proud to announce their featured artists for September, Nick Joerling and Janiel Engelstad. Nick Joerling's thrown and altered ceramic vessels strut, dance and gesture at the viewer. These are pots that can't sit still. Mr. Joerling's exquisite craftmanship on the wheel is enhanced by his playful alterations and unexpected assemblage of component pieces. Janiel Engelstad is a nationally renown artist whose work has characteristically protested violence and promoted harmony and tolerance. Mr. Engelstad has not exhibited in a gallery setting in over four years. Stop by the reception on Sept. 14 from 3 to 5 p.m. Both artists' work will be displayed through Sept. 29. ( 773 ) 477-6185, 1021 W. Lill.
Explore the essence of home living at The Old House/New House Home Show, Oct. 4-6 at Pheasant Run on Rte. 64 in St. Charles. Improve, beautify, enhance and enjoy every aspect of home living with 300 inspiring displays and knowledgeable professionals. Workshops and attractions include Designing Your Kitchen, Faux Finishing & Stenciling and Window School. Try to catch special guest "Mr. Fix-It" Lou Manfredi. For more, please call ( 630 ) 515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com .
Save the date: Kennedy Productions is also doing The Antique Show, Oct. 26 and 27. Call the above numbers or read next month's Interior Motives for more details.
Last, but not by any means least, don't forget about Spacelift, our nifty new spruce-up giveaway extravaganza. If your decor is tired and wrinkled, you may need a Spacelift.
Look at the ad for more info, or just write me at spacelift@hotmail.com .
Once again, it's been a blast. Safe shopping. And tell 'em Kirk sent ya.