Textured Porcelain

Local artists may recognize the name Guenola Lefeuvre—in the mid-aughts, this former Lake Bluff resident served as director and curator of the Deer Path Art League and Gallery. Today she operates as Textured Porcelain in Maine. Her work, as the name suggests, gives beholders a unique tactile experience. Wheel-thrown porcelain pieces are hand-cut in intricate patterns before being glazed in gorgeous colors. “I am inspired every day by the coastline and ocean,” says Lefeuvre. “I strive to invoke feelings through touch and sight as one may feel walking through nature.” We are partial to her mugs and cups—they’re worthy investment pieces for the kitchen cupboard and table. For more information, visit texturedporcelain.com.

Live Beautiful

Athena Calderone is as adept at creating books as she is blogs— the EyeSwoon blogger’s 2017 print debut, Cook Beautiful, was met with praise by critics, esteemed food writers, and famous chefs. Now, her follow-up, Live Beautiful, brings her sophisticated aesthetic to the world of interiors. Calderone peeks into the minds of interior decorators, fashion designers, and other influencers to break down how stunning rooms are put together. Each “look”—beautifully photographed by Nicole Franzen—is accompanied by tips for achieving a similar vibe in your own space. It’s a must have for any fan of home decorating. Available at Barnes and Noble, Deerfield Square.

A Pop of Pink

Fresh florals are always a beautiful way to brighten up a room, but for those with sensitive noses, Megan Stockton endorses a creative alternative: permanent botanicals. Visit her Lake Forest shop, Gifted, for this high-end peony arrangement in a classic blue toile vase by Winward Home. Composed of hundreds of petals that are shaped and painted by hand, the carefully crafted blooms will make you do a double take. “Sadly, real peonies are short-lived,” says Stockton. “These beauties look so good in person, our friends will lean in for a sniff.” Available at Gifted, 225 East Deerpath Road, Suite 138 in Lake Forest, shopwithgifted.com.