COTE DE TEXAS: More Rough Luxe Bargains

More Rough Luxe Bargains


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Looking again at this ad from Cost Plus World Market:   I’m totally hooked on this type of “gray” or Kooboo wicker – and I’m hooked on this chair particularly.    Since a reader first forwarded me this ad, my mind is going in circles.  Should I????   $129.99 x 4 = $519.96


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Blame the charming Cynthia who owns Indulge in Houston.  Her house was featured a few years ago in Cottage Living (remember that magazine?) and I think this was the first time I was clued into these chairs – with this particular shape.    Her table looks similar to mine…..hmmmm.  Cynthia has the most amazing style.  Look how cute this room is – look at that built in cabinet on the left. 



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For a client, Sally Wheat paired the chairs with this metal Wisteria table – now unfortunately discontinued.  Bring it back!!!  I love the look of a metal table paired with the Kooboo wicker.

When I originally wrote No More Granny Wicker HERE,  I said that Restoration Hardware had some gray wicker for sale, but Pottery Barn didn’t.  Well, that’s now all changed as another reader pointed out:


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Pottery Barn now sells two versions.  The smaller dining room chair is $349.00.   The larger arm chair is $499.    Still, quite a bit more expensive than Cost Plus World Market!!!!
Something about this picture from Pottery Barn looked familiar to me, no?

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For some reason, it made me think of Jill Brinson’s house in Atlanta.  Another use of the chairs that has really inspired me this past year.  Maybe my all time favorite dining room. 

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Here is the Pottery Barn arm chair,   a much larger, wider and deeper version of the dining room chair.

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These chairs are in a dining room in Norway - from the blog: http://theessenceofthegoodlife.blogspot.com/ – mixed with chandeliers and antique Swedish furniture.  


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Last month, they popped up in a Hamptons house done by Markham Roberts. 


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Armoires and More in Dallas emailed me to say they have these great looking gray faux wicker chairs for just $395.  These are not wicker, but are true outdoor/indoor chairs.  They are so popular Armoires and More can hardly keep them in stock.    Plus, there’s a sale going on now too!  Armoires and More HERE.


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My kitchen.    Does it need four Kooboo chairs?



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My chairs are small.  I could easily stow them or use them around the house.   I do love my chairs – I bought them from Tara Shaw.  They are French antiques, with a painted finish.  What could be better?   Hmmm.   The table is new, but it came from Joyce Horn Antiques, a great resource in Houston HERE.  I wish I could photoshop the four Kooboo chairs here so I could see what it would look like!   Layla!!!  Help!!!



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This is another version of a wicker chair that I love.    And it’s used how most people think wicker should be – outside.   This latest wicker trend, riding on the Belgian/Rough Luxe coattails, has brought the lowly product into the finest living and dining rooms. 



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Who says we have to do wicker outside anyway?  In this absolutely gorgeous pool house, located in Houston, interior design great Pam Pierce did not use one piece of wicker.  Instead – she used all iron.   I could live here, 24/7.   So gorgeous.




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But, if you do want to use wicker outside – here’s a great way to do it.    This is another Kooboo chair shape that I adore.   This is the Belgian/Rough Luxe look that is driving Restoration Hardware, Mecox, Pottery Barn, Cost Plus etc.   Here, they used a large trestle table with either a stone zinc, or limed wood top, with a set of wicker chairs surrounding it.   From Elle Décor.    These tables are a huge hit.  Restoration Hardware even sold out of one of its version.   Everyone wants a table like this, it seems.



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The owners of the Wisteria catalogue used a metal topped table and wicker chairs – in their own version of the Belgian trend.


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My nephew and his fiancé are looking for a table similar to this that Lisa Luby Ryan used.  The ones at Mecox are so expensive.  Even wholesale, they are still expensive.  And mostly, the wholesale companies are out of stock.   Almost every company that sells the Belgian limed oak tables are waiting on shipments, that’s how popular these tables are today.  We finally ordered a table that has a 3 months wait time.

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Jane Wood Interiors HERE combined an antique limed table with a mixed set of antique wicker chairs. 

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The Rough Luxe look is not trendy in Belgium – it is how they truly live.   But here, we certainly will remember the 2110’s for the unstained, splintery wood look. 
Should you use only antiques or is a new copy ok?   Since this look is so trendy, it might be a good idea to use a copy and save the money. 



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These tables are hard to find in stock, unless you are willing to pay full retail.  



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The zinc topped tables are less dressy than the wood topped ones I think.    Here Jenny Johnston mixed a lime wood base with the zinc top in Rosemary Beach HERE


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Here, the Rough Luxe wood is used everywhere  - new and old - in a very contemporary setting. 




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My nephew is looking for a table just like this.  Except they don’t want to pay the high cost at Restoration Hardware.  Do you blame them?




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This ad shows the same table as above, but in a  lighter version, which I love.  These Belgian inspired, Rough Luxe tables look good mixed with lanterns or crystal chandeliers. 



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Great table, great lantern, but I really don’t care for the chairs.  Eek!!!  Sorry.



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I love this style of table.   I think everyone under the age of 35 is looking for this exact table!


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$524.  - WOW
Ann who writes the blog, Peggy and Fritz, HERE, emailed me about this fabulous table at Cost Plus World Market!  WOW.  This is a perfect way to get the Rough Luxe look for a fraction of the cost.   Ann says she would pair this with four of the Cost Plus Kooboo wicker chairs and two white slipped chairs on the ends.  $524!!!!!  A steal! – you get the look at a fraction of the price.  When the trend is over, you could use it outside or as a desk.  The bench is so cute too.

Who knew that Cost Plus World Market was at the forefront of the hot Rough Luxe trend????


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But, wait, here’s another “bargain” -  this great looking table from Restoration Hardware is now on sale for around – $1200, for the medium size. 


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Ballard Designs – another steal compared to Mecox and Restoration Hardware.  Just $800.   I’m dying to see this in person.


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Finally, a blogger Mitchell of Optimism and White Paint HERE from New Orleans, emailed me to say that he just recently bought the Cost Plus chair for a client to put next to a desk.  He sent this phone snapshot to say that the chair is small, which might account for its cheaper price.  He said it’s 26”wx25dx33.5h.   Pottery Barn’s dining room chair measures:  26wx27dx36h – so it appears to be just a few inches higher and deeper.   The Pottery Barn armchair measures 34"wx35" dx37"h – much wider and deeper than both dining room versions. 
Looks cute to me!!! Which gets me thinking again about my own breakfast room……should I??????
 
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120 comments :

  1. Hello! :-)

    I just want to tell you how happy I felt for having you at my blog! It's an honor for me!

    This post is fabulous! So many gorgeous images and you're right! After spending so much $ around the holidays we need to have BARGAINS!!! :-) Do you all agree??


    If you have a minute, come to my blog to get to know "Linda Burger, a Canadian Interior designer and Architect. She's so good!!!

    xo


    Luciane at HomeBunch.com

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  2. I have always loved your slipped chairs but the wicker ones are nice too. You sure can't beat the price! What a delimma (sp?)....I would probably go ahead and get the wicker chairs and if they don't work out you still have your lovely slipped ones (in storage of course). If you decide on keeping the wicker chairs, a few years from now you can either sell them or use them somewhere else in the house and bring back the slipped ones for a "new" look.
    Just my 2 cents worth! Can't wait to see what you do.

    Judy

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  3. While I love your chairs, I agree they are small. I'd get the wicker - just perfect & great price. Love all the pics & deals. Thanks

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  4. Joni, I don't even want these chairs and you have convinced me I need to buy some,lol. I am not going too, but you should, The seating size does not look any smaller than what you are using now. The other point if not inside great for outside, I say get them because now that you have shown everyone this post I am sure there will be a run on the chairs!! You and Oprah, makes us all want to buy!!! Buy!!!

    Take a look at my post today and see how my mind is spinning!!! KS

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  5. My vote is y.e.s.
    that space will change completely ... you can always change it up seasonly

    ... what a deal
    the million dollar look for a buck ... my new book title.

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  6. I'm torn. Love the looks that you present, but your chairs are perfectly wonderful now. Honest.

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  7. I have a suggestion for your nephew. I peruse Craigslist frequently and a woodworking shop in Houston replicates anything as long as they have a picture and your desired dimensions. I've seen many examples that resemble the Restoration Hardware lines. They have a shop in the Heights called El Viejo Mexico Furniture. I have no idea about pricing but he will give you a quote. It's a thought and it's nice to keep business in town. If you search Craigslist type the name in lower case without spaces.

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  8. I think those are the same chairs that Sarah Richardson used in the dining room for her country house on "Sarah's House", too. Or something very similar in style and price.

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  9. Nooooo. Re-read your article on antiques and why you should get them because they're well-made, not trendy, etc. See how you can use your current chairs in other places - that's not going to happen with these wicker chairs. You will end up getting rid of them in 5 years. Dining room chairs are too big of an expense for something trendy.

    However, if you go with wicker, then get a higher quality. I think the outdoor ones are the best, particularly if it is made of something waterproof that imitates rattan. Then you can use them outdoors later. You won't be able to use these World Market ones outdoors.

    You could also just get 2 wicker chairs and bring out the current chairs whenever you have company.

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  10. I am all about the Rough Luxe! When I was interviewed for Nate Berkus, I used that expression and later he told me that he LOVED it.

    Love the chairs, but don't have room for them. :-(

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  11. I don't think the World Market chairs are grey enough for you.

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  12. You are so funny Joni! I so understand you and the obsession! Ha Ha.
    Let me know if you go for it! Good luck in your descision.
    Leslie

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  13. Joni,
    I love those chairs too! I vote for you to get them for your kitchen, they'd be stunning in there!
    BTW, I have two white wicker chairs that I'd love to try to paint or get a "grayish" tone going on with them...any painting tips for me?

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  14. Ok Joni you've been obsessing about those wicker chairs for over a year now...buy them! Question first, will they fit? There doesn't look like a lot of room around the table and chairs...measure first. As for a three month wait time on a table, child's play! I ordered a table from RH try six months!!!

    Debra,

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  15. Hi there Joni,
    Lovely post.Can't believe I have those very same wicker chairs but only two! Got them of an old couple who wanted to get rid of them or burn them.!!??!!Sadly they had been in the rain and were discouloured so painted them white.They are super comfortable but take upa heck of a lot of space.If you have a big farmhouse kitchen, I would say, go for rough deluxe and get the wicker chairs plus lovely old wooden table.But if the kitchen is smaller, like yours , stick with the smaller chairs.Your chairs are gorgeous anyway- but I can see what you mean and it's nice to have a change sometimes!!

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  16. Great post! I think I have a solution for your nephew...I do design work for a small retail store in the San Franscisco Bay Area, called Harvest(www.shopharvest.com). We custom build dining tables from reclaimed lumber, and we can make the double pedestal table pictured on your post. I'm sure your nephew would be pleased to know that he could customize the table to his preferred dimensions, select his desired finish, and all for less than traditional resto prices!
    Our old lumber tables are made in Southern California, and the turn-around time for custom orders is only about 3-4 weeks!
    The gray wicker chairs would look fantastic with our reclaimed wood tables!
    http://www.shopharvest.com/catalog/?category_id=4&item_id=199

    Hope this helps! Thanks for all of your beautiful and inspiring posts. I love to follow your blog!
    -Jaye

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  17. You should! A couple of years ago I got the only two wicker chairs they had at the Wisteria Outlet (they are just like the wicker chairs the Wisteria owners had in the picture in your post). They were $99 a chair! The best deal I have ever gotten. The Wisteria Outlet has not had another wicker chair like the ones I got since then that I have seen. So, if you really want them, get them while they are still available and at a great price and then share a photo with us. ;-)

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  18. I think you should get the chairs! It would update your look and they are so cute! You might have to move the bakers rack to make room for them though. They make the table more of a feature in the room.

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  19. DEFINITELY! That tone and texture would be so fabulous in your kitchen. I say go for it! If you do, I hope you post photos asap!

    I'm so into the greyed/weathered woods right now...I've always been a fan of pale, painted furniture, but right now I want to be surrounded by faded wood tones...

    Hugs,
    Jenny

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  20. Everything you do turns out beautifuly and I think that the wicker would be a lovely update. Do it! Then, please sell me your current breakfast room chairs!

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  21. Uh, why are we even discussing this??? Yes. Yes. YES! Pairing them with that metal table would be divine, dah-ling!

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  22. lovely website. love the wicker chairs around metal table look - says come sit and stay a while, relax, enjoy.

    love your marble countertops too. are they hard to keep up?

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  23. OK, get the chairs....for the money you can't beat them...and of course, if they don't work and/or you don't care for them you can return them. They have a very liberal return policy and are extremely accomodating. Another GREAT post!!!

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  24. I developed a bit of a table fetish during my "table drama" days, so I really enjoyed this post.

    I ended up designing my own and having it built. I wanted long and narrow for a more intimate feel and am really happy with it.

    In Ballard's new catalog, there's a narrow table! I about died. Would've saved me some steps. But mine has a story, and that's what I wanted. :)

    I like your thouhts about wicker chairs, but am not convinced they're better than what you have. Just different. Which is ok!

    Have a rgeat week!
    Linsey

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  25. well... since you asked... me thinks the cost plus chairs look uncomfortable and not quite right.... but I would go sit in one first.

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  26. I think they would look great! I love what you have now but sometimes a little change is nice. I would save your other ones though, a gorgeous classic.

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  27. Absolutely you want to replace your dining chairs with the wicker ones. It will make a dramatic difference. The french chairs are lovely but the wicker is so much more substancial and will make the room feel more relaxed.

    Now get yourself to Cost Plus and get those chairs. What a bargain!

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  28. I'm a devoted reader of your blog, though I rarely comment. Your chairs now are great. I think you are feeling the need to change things up a bit, like a decorating rut. How would 2 rattan chairs look, mixed with your other 2 antique chairs? I can't really tell in this picture if your table is round or oval (in which case if it is round, clearly just 2 new chairs will not work). I guess I've become too much of a spend thrift lately, but it just seems like a nice chunk of change to spend when you have four beautiful antique chairs that are real pieces of art.

    How is Elizabeth doing?

    ~Angela

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  29. Please keep your lovely French antique chairs in your kitchen. They are perfect in scale. If you have a hankering for wicker, place them in an outdoor room or outside. Besides, wicker is uncomfortable, most of the time.

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  30. I think the chairs you have now look wonderful and I'd be very hesitant to change them.

    I'd be afraid that the new ones would have seats that are too low for comfortable dining and that they couldn't be pushed under the table because of the arms. If you have to move the table to allow room for a chair, then your light won't be centered over the table. I've been down a similar road....

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  31. Oh Joni, I think your table would be awesome with those chairs. But yeah, you gotta check on the sizes, don't want your chin resting on the table !! I love how the wicker looking chairs bring another texture and additional interest. Go for it !!
    B

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  32. Sent you a photoshop via email Joni!

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  33. Yes you should! You will enjoy them for the price for as long as you like them and then not feel guilty when you want your pretty frenchy chairs back! Is there going to be a new saying after this post: "Do you Kooboo?"

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  34. No need to photo shop the chairs. They would look fabulous! I say, if the money's in your pocket, go for it!

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  35. If money is not an object, yes, they would be darling. My lone wicker chair seldom gets used since it makes noise, even after you leave the room...cute, but not the most comfy..loved your readers' comments...

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  36. On a related note, is something going on with Restoration Hardware? The closest store to me, in a large mall in one of the country's largest metro areas, just closed. I wonder if they found they were putting all of their design eggs in one basket and/or the recession has caused them to retrench.

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  37. Joni, your breakfast room is the picture of utter perfection as it is.

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  38. Love this post. Wicker chairs add instant warmth and coziness to a space, in my opinion. I love your kitchen, how thick are those countertops, 2 inches? Love!
    Love the picture of the back of the yellow home in the hazy sun with the table setting and wicker chairs on the patio..what a dreamy picture!

    Please visit my blog you can...www.theenchantedhome.blogspot.com

    Thanks and great job as usual, its always such a treat being here!

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  39. Why not go pick up a couple from World Market, bring them home and see what you think? I wonder if you'll like them as much if you sit in them - they'll probably feel unsubstantial. You can easily return them if you don't like them. I think 2 of the better versions would serve you better than 4 of the smaller ones.

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  40. The chairs are a must!! Who could resist such a bargain, especially when they will look fabulous with your table!!

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  41. Joni, your current chairs are quite lovely and you should not change them unless you ask your husband first. But wait, it's not why you may think. Because the current chairs appear somewhat on the small side, ask your husband to sit in one of them and then to give you his honest opinion about whether it feels generous enough for his size & frame (is it deep enough, wide enough or if he feels like he's having to perch/balance on a chair better suited for a female's height, size, etc.). If you decide to go with the wicker chairs, I think the style in the first outdoor image or the style in the image with the outdoor fireplace would look great! (Just my opinion.)

    Karen T.

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  42. I love these chairs, but I don't think I could replace anything from Tara Shaw with them! I got strange news today and am sending an email now.

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  43. Nice chairs, but since you asked, my vote is to keep the French antique chairs in your breakfast room. They look great with that table.
    Deborah

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  44. So glad you talked about World Market! They have some great, affordable pieces. That Wicker chair is so wonderful and has a great shape. Thanks for the tips!

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  45. You know you want them, so go get 'em, girl! You won't sleep until you do. I think they'll look gorgeous with your metal table.

    That said, make sure they're large enough for any plus-size guests you may have. Because they're armchairs, they could potentially be very uncomfortable for a larger person. Even though your current chairs are smallish, plus-size guests are probably still comfortable in them since there are no arms to constrict them.

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  46. Joni, here's my two cents. Go to World Market, buy a chair, bring it home, and see how you like it. If you don't, then you can take it back.

    I adore your chairs you have in there, but if you can use them elsewhere, then get the wicker ones. You have been loving the wicker for a long time now, and you are obviously trying to convince yourself, so be a magpie and DO IT! Go forth and shop! And seriously, if you don't like it, then you can take it back and get a refund. Easy Peasy.

    XO,

    Sheila :-)

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  47. Nice post...I say go for it Joni!
    I have four wicker chairs at our farm table...nut three of them are a sage gray/green...and one of them is brown. I have been meaning to paint them a cohesive color since I bought them. Now I am inspired!

    Thanks for that!

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  48. I vote yes! The chairs would look so perfect with your table!

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  49. Ok Joni, here's the rub: for summer, I think the wicker chairs are fabulous and in the winter keep your beautiful little chairs -this way you can enjoy both styles all year. Pottery Barn is outrageously priced - I think all of their goods are way too expensive for what you get - I prefer looking for a well-made bargain (is there such a thing??)or consignment piece -so, go for it, wicker is great indoors, in my humble opinion! :))

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  50. IMHO, I think you should atleast go to World Market and get them. Bring them home and test them ... it's the only way you'll really know. :) Plus, you can always take them back if they don't work!

    xoxo,
    A

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  51. I think you need them. They would look so good in your kitchen. It would give it a more casual air. Seems like a great price and if you get tired of them...you can move them to your porch. My only concern is the size...the smaller size might be better for your kitchen...but they also might feel strange too. I know I've bought smaller chairs that I regretted because you feel like a giant in them.

    I'd want to see them in person and have a sit in them.

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  52. I just love your posts...so full of beautiful images and such comprehensive and well-thought-out information and overviews.

    Cost Plus has a generous return policy...I say get the chairs "on approval" and take them back if it doesn't work for you.

    I think they'd look cute.

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  53. Go for it! you will LOVE having arm chairs in your breakfast room! xxooo

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  54. Oh, Layla will work her magic for you!

    I'd have to sit in the World Market chairs. Great deal though! You could always get and return if they didn't work.

    Your kitchen is divine.

    And, I kept every issue of Cottage Living. Loved that magazine.

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  55. I say go for it! The texture would be great in your breakfast room. Should you tire of them in the future they can be relegated to the Garden with a simple update of an outdoor rated cushion. Change for 2011!

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  56. Hi Joni,
    You know what, bring just a couple home and move them all over the house & even to your "outdoors" office. Just to see...
    I'm kind of funny that way...I like to know that I can use things in at least 2-3 rooms, helps to justify the price sometimes.
    Geeze...I wonder where the nearest Cost Plus is to Lex? I'll have to look and see.
    Wanted to mention that I took your advice and gave the Ikea white slipcovers for my PB couch a try. OMG they fit
    perfectly, the fabric is heavy and piping is just great! At under $50 for the large couch, I bought 2 sets....teens & dogs you know.
    xo

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  57. Love your chairs...love the wicker...what to do? I would do both and either change seasonally or I like the idea of using both together. Check out Noir , For ' Rough Luxe' tables...not too expensive and currently available I believe.

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  58. Joni: I say buy the wicker chairs. Of course you have to decide if they are comfortable, etc., but I think the important thing is that they will add natural texture and a more casual feel to your beautiful kitchen. The contrast of the wicker with the metal and marble will be very welcoming. They are $129 apiece for goodness sake! It's not a major purchase. I know you must spend that on accessories all the time. The Tara Shaw chairs are classic and will go anywhere, anytime, all the time, in your house or anyone else's. Keep them and mix them with the wicker sometimes, and mix them with other things other times. Simple, easy change and plenty of bang for your buck, and plenty of alternatives, when you decide to change! No brainer!

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  59. Buy them. I adore your chairs and agree there's no doubt that they are nicer, but you can definitely find places to use them as pull ups for extra seating . I think you need the texture in your kitchen against the shiny table top and all of the white. They will warm it all up.

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  60. It was a sad, sad day when I found out Cottage Living was going out of print. I still have my stash in the top of my closet- hard to beat that much inspiration in one magazine! I wish they'd bring it back! Loooove your blog! and YES, get the chairs!

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  61. So many great rooms! Wicker is such a great alternative to fabrics and so easy to care for. I also look the built in hutches with the chicken wire in place of the glass.
    - xo, Vanessa Elizabeth

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  62. Joni - I'm so with you on the look of the unfinished wood! So pretty & fresh. I've been hesitant to plunge into it very much for my store for practicality: many of our customers really USE their furniture, dining tables in particular, & it is just impossible to remove spills & stains from raw wood. Yes, it can be sealed, but it doesn't arrive that way, & unless you are "in the biz" I find that regular people just don't have the time or brain power to deal with it. Such a buzzkill for a great look! It's one of those dilemmas that many of your readers have mentioned - style vs longevity - that I constantly weigh in choices for my product mix at the store.
    Thank you for adding our chairs to your post!!

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  63. Thank you Joni for the mention, I'm deeply honored as I've learned some much reading your blog!

    Now go get the chairs! Worse case is - you don't like them and you return them and at least you know one way or another. They would look fabulous with your kitchen and I love the warmth that wicker brings. You can also mix them up with the ones you have when you want a change. They are classic enough in shape and style that if you get bored you can sprinkle them around the house. I say go for it!

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  64. I feel like I always start my comments off the same way: "Joni!!" :). I guess I just love your posts. Have you ever shown a pic of your kitchen from that angle? (The first one) bc I don't recognize it but its awesome...those thick white counters look fab. I'm so ready to redo my kitchen! Lovely post, lovely pics, and I always love a good deal-hmmm tough call on the chairs...I would def sit in one first! Your current chairs are too great to just toss out. World market definitely has some finds!

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  65. Joni,
    Assuming adequate spacing and comfort, I vote for the wicker for the following reasons:
    - they would ground the table
    - they would balance the horizontal lines in the baker's rack and the scrolled legs in your table
    - they would add texture and warmth by balancing the metal & marble finish from your table and countertops
    Do or don't - either way, you have a great kitchen. Until then, enjoy the stroll through "the land of possibilities".
    Lulu

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  66. What an amazing post, and so interesting reading all your comments! Your kicthen and home pics are just as inspiring as the ones you post from magazines. I am soo in love with the outdoor room with the iron furniture! For my 'dream home' file for sure!
    Naomi

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  67. By all means, get the KooBoo chairs! They would make a wonderful addition and as a previous commenter posted, you can always swap out the chairs when the seasons change.

    I dashed off to World Market as soon as I saw the original post, but they did not have them yet so I am going to have the stalk the place until they show up!

    Nancy

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  68. Your chairs look so classy that u have now. Do u really want to look like everyone else? U get what u pay for and if those chairs are that cheap they probably feel it. Guarantee u they will start to break apart. I personally think it is going to look cheezy. If u are really jonesin for them buy a pair for your patio. U are out there all the time and u can see them from inside your house.

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  69. I think your table is perfect to go with the chairs. Go for it! You can always return them if you don't like the combo, or if you get tired of them after a few years, use them on your porch.

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  70. Joni, I would absolutely keep your French antiques at your table. They are beautiful and small enough to keep the breakfast nook open and unclustered. Plus, who can say they have French Antique chairs??? Not too many people!

    I.Am.In.Love.With.The.Pool.House!!!

    Great post as always!
    Corey

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  71. Keep the French chairs! For you readers in Atlanta looking for a trestle table or bench I had mine custom made -- old French farm table base with zinc top -- for a very reasonable price by Dave Lennard. He sometimes displays at Scott's and welcomes customers at his warehouse.

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  72. No on the wicker! Even though they are cute and a great deal, your beautiful Tara Shaw chairs are perfection in your breakfasr room!!!

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  73. Just get them I think - what's the worst that can happen - you return them! I unfortunately have been lusting for a set of Janus wicker for several years now - not in the same price range I'm afraid. And btw - I'm not crazy about the Pottery Barn ones - normally I like oversized but these look quite clunky and ungraceful to me.

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  74. You MUST go to Ikea! They have the same gray wicker chairs for 69.99!!! They are beautiful! I have been trying to find a place for them in my home.

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  75. Here is my honest opinion. The chairs you have now at your breakfast table do look a little small. The kaboo wicker chairs will look a little better for a short while, however you will probably tire of them within 3 years. That is how long it took me to tire of my wicker dining chairs. I am now planning to switch to a simple slipcovered parsons chair.

    Also, in the phone picture from your friend, the World Market chair did not look gray enough. It really looked a lot more brown.

    You can always just buy one and bring it home to see how it looks and then return it if you decide against it.

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  76. At that price I'd say, why not? If you want to go back to your pretty slipped chairs in a few years, you can always put the wicker in your garden or I'd bet your daughter or another family member could happily find a place for it.

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  77. you definitely should...they would add so much warmth and look fabulous with your metal table! Cant wait to see the after photos

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  78. Joni, I love the wicker chairs and I had similar ones in my kitchen for a number of years. Though they were pretty to look at they were not very comfortable to sit in. I bought an exact copy of the RH console table at Room Store. It sells for less than half of RH price.
    Sherry

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  79. Hi..I bought 4 of the same chairs and LOVE them. They are comfortable and large enough for my husband who is a tall man. My friends loved them so much they bought them too. If you sign up for their program they send you coupons and you might get them even cheaper. I bought mine for $112 with the 25% off coupon they sent me in my email. If you don't like them you can always take them back :).

    Kim

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  80. For more fabulous gray wicker, check out this company in the Netherlands. Too bad they don't ship to the US. Anyone have any connections in the Netherlands? http://www.rivieramaison.com/index.cfm?/home_OC_EN

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  81. Yes you should head to World Market, it will be fun to see a change, the wicker will add an earthy feel to your kitchen and it will be fun to sprinkle your other chairs throughout the house!

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  82. I think you should try the wicker chairs...but keep the receipt in case you don't like the look, they aren't comfortable, etc. If you're like me, you probably won't stop obsessing over them until you try them out! Thank you for all the great pics and resources, Joni. You have impeccable taste and I have learned so much from reading your blog the past few months. It is good to know that even a professional like yourself second-guesses themselves, just like the rest of us....I was once told that a decorator is just someone who can make a decision, lol. Your choices in your home so far have been amazing, and I know this will work out...have fun!

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  83. OOH -I think you should try them at least - better hurry - your post will make them a "fly out of the store" deal. I'm running into town now - at that price I'm putting them on my upstairs patio (they'll probably fry in the heat - but maybe not).

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  84. Joni,
    While I love the look of your kitchen I always like t have a good mix of rustic or "rough' with refined. I think it keep the guests comfortable. Looks like they would go with your baskets and for that price they seem like a great addition. It will healp with the organic fresh feel of your kitchen.

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  85. My dear! What a reactions on this post!
    Joni, maybe you have to try the Belgian company Malvini for a table for your nephew and his fiancée. I might say that they really make beautiful Belgian handcrafted tables at a reasonable price. You can email Veronique the Malvini company. She is a friend of mine. Here : http://www.malvini.com/
    Joni,
    thank you so much for your comments on my posts this week! You are so sweet! Big hug from Belgium!
    xx
    Greet

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  86. Well, it looks like I'm going to have to bring my desk into the shop--it's the real deal fabricated with antique French walnut shutters. (and I always it was too rough). Perfect breakfast room size, too. I love the wicker, too.

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  87. I say go to World Market buy the chairs for a week and see what you think. If you don't love them then just return them!

    I will say I do love your chairs you have now.

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  88. I have admired the table in Lisa's room also since it was shown in a magazine last month I believe! Are you willing to share where your nephew ended up getting one? I would love to have something similar myself.

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  89. Joni: I think the consensus is that you should try out the chairs (I think you'd better hurry, too). I would be interested in seeing the chairs mixed as that would be the definition of rough luxe!
    Love it all.
    Mary Ann

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  90. Because you obviously love them, Yes, yes, yes!!!

    go now.

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  91. The imagery is always such an onslaught of non-stop gorgeousness !!!
    Used one of your images in today's Giveaway posting !

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  92. I would love to have those chairs at home. They are really so beautiful.

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  93. I bought 6 of the Ikea chairs before I read your post about World Mkt. they aren't exactly the same. the Ikea ones have holes in the side, and will stack. I like the shape of the World Mkt ones better. the cushion isn't included on the IKEA chair, but instead of the one they recommend, I purchased a different one that has a broader back. the cushion for the Byholma chair has a zippered slipcover. now, I only need a concrete or zinc top table, and my sunporch will look like Greet's!!! Well, not really...we still need floors installed, and the view is not NEARLY the same, lol.!!

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  94. Joni...You need to step back and take a few deep breaths... do it a couple times so that you get a lot of oxygen going to your brain. now repeat this NO CHEEZY WICKER. HOW CAN YOU EVEN THINK ABOUT REPLACING THOSE BEAUTIFUL TARA SHAW CHAIRS THAT ARE SLIPCOVERED SOOO BEAUTIFULLY. Spray paint your white ones on your patio lightly and you will have your grey fix believe me.

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  95. Love the wonderful pictures on the post. I think the wicker would look fabulous in your kitchen. I love the texture difference just like the wicker basket sitting on your counter. Thanks for the trend alert; I will definitely be thinking wicker during my thrifting.

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  96. Oh my gosh, I'm having the same dilemma as you! My breakfast nook currently has an antique Austrian bench and two antique French armchairs we bought when we lived in Europe. When I read your post a few days ago about the World Market chair, whose design I've admired for a long time, I went to look at them that very day. They are small...but oh so cute and just the right price! What to do?

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  97. I saw the table your nephew wanted for sale at www.shadesoflight.com. A little cheaper than Restoration Hardware too! Same table. I love this look in combination with crystal and feminine accents. The contrast are beautiful!

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  98. Two things, Joni. First, I think your kitchen chairs are charming - the wicker would look lovely too but there's something just right about your kitchen as is and I wouldn't be in a hurry to change it. Second - I'm not sure that this look will be a flash in the pan trend - I think it's classic enough that it will always be an option for designers. At least, I sure hope so. I'll bet you loved it long before it was popular and will continue to in future. I know I did/do/will. Beautiful post, today - I viewed it this morning and it stuck with me all day. Thanks. Debra

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  99. Shoot me know, but I'm just not into this craze. I like the gray wicker alright but i think it will be out of style fast. I am not a fan of the rough wooden trestle tables at all! I'm ready for the next style!

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  100. I don't think you have room for the wicker chair in front of the doors. Weirs furniture Dallas/Plano had a gray weathered table when I was in today for 699.00. Call Jeff Howell and have him email you a picture,
    Tina Ramer

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  101. I have never seen any furniture at Cost Plus World Market that was very good quality. I don't think the World Market chairs you show in photos are nearly as nice as the other wicker chairs you show in other photos. I would either keep the chairs you have, or opt for a higher quality chair. The chairs you have are lovely.

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  102. I love this look. I say go for it!

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  103. I definitely think 4 kooboo wicker chairs would warm up your dining table, and add texture...go for it!

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  104. Joni:

    Great post - I agree - if you really love them buy them - keep the beautiful chairs you now have - you can surely find a spot for them or store them. If and when you are tired of the wicker in your kitchen - take them outside where they will be beautiful as well. I believe if you truly love something you will find a place for it. Thanks for all the eye candy!!!
    I'll say it again - you're the best!!

    Janice
    Pemaquid

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  105. Hi Joni,
    Have those tables custom made. So many wonderful craftsmen in this area are seeking out work because of the slow economy. It's a good time to get excellent workmanship and you don't pay shipping costs or have long lead times.

    I love the wicker by the way!

    Carla

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  106. *****I photoshoped this and sent it to your email for you...give you a fairly good idea.*** let me know your thought! Thanks

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  107. I LOVE the color of your kitchen cabinets!! Can you tell me what color you used?? Thanks!!

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  108. Love yout Tara Shaw chairs, how about trying two to put in your office and see if you really love them...
    As always your taste is exquisite! Whatever you pick will be darling!
    -linda, long ilnad, ny
    p.s before you know it Elisabeth, will be graduated and will need a nice shash of beautiful antiques for her first place, so don't be in a hurry to throw/sell things! ;)

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  109. Go ahead...you know you want them! :) Though those Tara Shaw chairs are amazing. But, it's fun to freshen things up, move things around.

    Share a picture if you take the plunge!
    xo Elizabeth

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  110. I think those Kooboo chairs would look awesome in your kitchen. The great thing about wicker is it's a classic, never dates and those particular chairs look ultra comfy.I say go for it! but hurry, now that you've posted this blog there may be none left!


    Go for it!

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  111. I think you have made your mind up already, you just have to settle on which brand of chair. I have to sit in a chair before I will buy it. I would think Pottery Barn or Restoration Hardware would provide the best made product. I think the table by Restoration Hardware is the nicest of your examples!

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  112. My husband brought a chair home for me. I was afraid the arms would be a little high for our table, as it's my grandmother's old round table with an apron that they had when they set up housekeeping in the late 1910's. The chair sits back far enough that I hit the table before the arms do. The chair is extremely comfortable. I might add a back cushion for extra comfort when sitting around the table after meals - it's the kind of chair that lends itself to that. I suggest trying first, as I'm 5'6" and think it might be high for a shorter person - thinking of my tiny DIL. Great find. We'll probably get 3 more.

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  113. Do it! Have fun with it. If it doesn't work out, so what!
    I think it would add nice warmth to your kitchen dining area.

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  114. Hey Joni, FYI I had a set of wicker dinning chairs like those in the early eighties. Their bottoms got so banged up because the base sicks our further than the top and people were always stumbling over them. They looked great for about 6 mths.

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  115. I enjoy your blog. The photos take a long time to load, though. has anyone else mentioned this?

    have you tried posted lower res photos? 130 dpi is plenty for screens. 800 px is usually wide enough.

    thanks for the great blog.

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