“It’s time for the Highpoint international furniture market again and the thought occurred to me that it is the 48th time I have attended. That means it is a lot more for many people, such as Marilyn Johnson and the fabulous ladies who set up and take care of the hundreds of visitors each market. We have a permanent showroom open to the trade at the Hamilton Wren complex which is where the more traditional and, in many cases, high end furniture styles are showcased.
Obviously we don’t sell furniture, but decorative accessories and tabletop. These are necessary for the completion of an interior design, so we see lots of Interior decorators and are glad to welcome them, hear about their latest projects, and stories, shoot the breeze and laugh a lot. I have to say, these people are a color bunch, both in words and dress. They know their colors and are focused in what they are looking for. They know beautiful fabric and I love to look at what they are wearing.
Over the years, Mottahedeh has valued the decorator business and we consider it just as important today, as we do the retailer business in every state. Mottahedeh’s most well-known dinner pattern is Tobacco Leaf, an flamboyant pattern of 27 colors, but equally well known is Blue Canton and the ever-popular Duke of Gloucester. Our new introduction of dinner plate and b&b for the Peacock pattern has received a lot of good attention as this becomes a bridal registry pattern we know young brides will find appealing.
Mottahedeh Peacock 4 pieces
At this market, this is the first time, we are featuring Rookwood for Mottahedeh lamps, made in Cincinnati at the Rookwood Art Pottery. These large and graceful stoneware lamps are finished in smooth vellum glazes that have been the signature of this venerable and historic art pottery for over a century, and they provide a dramatic look with subtle gradient colors. The vintage shapes are surprisingly contemporary in look, being so simple and sleek, with great proportion. 
Highpoint Lamps
When looking for new designs to pursue, I pay attention to the feeling I get when I first see a design. If the image resonates with me I know it has the potential to have a life with us. It may be a wonderful color treatment, or the shape of something, or the delicacy of the object. Next thing I look for is the story or meaning behind the object. Lastly, is it the best that it can be, in terms of quality and treatment? Can we adapt it for use today, improve on it, or edit it? How can we make it new while recalling what is the essential nature of it?
Thought for the day: We all look for meaning in our lives and this is a way to connect with our culture, or that of another, the past or the future. This requires search and imagination. Though we are looking at material objects, these considerations are not material. They have to do with the spirit. The challenge for all of us is not to become attached to the material possessions we may want or have or even create, but see them as reflections of beauty and be able to walk away from them, if necessary, so they don’t encumber us. In other words, develop a sense of detachment from things, while still being able to appreciate what we see or own.”