Inspiring architectural spaces make the experience of each of these establishments worth a visit

Lucia's Wine Bar and Bakery

Lucia’s is a wonderfully light-filled space with high ceilings, beautiful cabinetry, and Carrara marble countertops that we have frequented often for the past 20 years. Lucia’s works with local farmers to always source the best local ingredients, creating meals that fit the season. For an evening outing we recommend the snack board and a glass of red wine. In a hurry? Grab a savory scone from the bakery… you won’t regret it!

CB2

CB2 sells furniture, housewares, linens and décor to suit the design-conscious in all of us. Their new space on Hennepin Avenue South and 31st Street is equally as interesting. We admire the way the building completes the block, with creative shop windows and bold modern materials.

                                                                                   

American Swedish Institute Gift Shop

Very few shopping experiences offer an elegant historic backdrop, while displaying products of cutting edge, modern design. This is a place to experience both. The gift shop has a wonderful collection of Scandinavian modern housewares, and you can see the vibrant, historically-inspired carpeting in the mansion. Experience the new stair and elevator tower designed by local firm HGA, which allows you to get up close to the limestone gargoyles and copper roof shapes as you move between floors. And watch the new Nelson Cultural Center, also by HGA, take shape next door.  

Sugar Sugar

This old-fashioned, candy store, in south Minneapolis (located across from the Grand Café) features colorful and delicious candies in neatly-lined up glass jars. We love the airy feel of this tiny shop, with its simple white shelves and wood counters that allow the sweets to take center stage.

Highpoint Center for Printmaking

Designed by James Dayton Design, this unique art center features a gallery and studios for all types of printmaking. The space is open and light, with well-appointed studio spaces available for use by artists who are members of the collaborative. The Center also offers many educational opportunities, including Free Ink Day, coming up on February 11^th, 2012. Hope to see you there!

Arlen Fraser Showroom Tour

Arlen Fraser, a merger of Jon Arlen Group and Helen Fraser, is a locally-owned furniture showroom located in International Market Square in Minneapolis. IMS houses a multitude of showrooms and design studios. It is a local mecca for high-quality furnishings, textiles, home accessories, and finishes. Tammy and I spent an hour with Keith this morning as he walked us through Arlen Fraser’s 6,000-square-foot showroom. Keith was very helpful explaining Arlen Fraser’s offerings – which range from contemporary sofas and accessories to traditional bar stools and dining sets. Product lines such as Focus One and Della Robbia are more contemporary and minimal in style. WoodlandFurniture and Marge Carson fall under a more traditional heading. And lines like Henredon and Swaim can be specified to fit any home from transitional to contemporary. They have product lines to fit nearly any space and personal taste.

The showroom specifies and sells to trade partners only but everyone is welcome in their showroom. Floor samples are always available to purchase whether you’re a designer or a homeowner. The staff is all well-educated and prepared to answer any questions and help track down even the most unique piece for your home.  

“I recently had a client ask for a tray-table lamp with a built-in magazine rack.” Rothstein said. Yes, they get that specific. And the team at Arlen Fraser is willing to do the leg work to find what you’re looking for. “If you give us an idea, we’re happy to track down some options that will work for you.” Whether you’re shopping for items a la carte or need a one-stop shop for all your furnishings, Arlen Fraser offers a broad range of high-quality products for your home.