Must-Reads: Splurgeworthy Household Items & Wintering in Houston

 

Every Monday, we corral five links from around the web worthy of sharing. On tap for today: a restaurant's treasure hunt for unique dishware, a tour of an Australian island and how best to spend your winter in Houston among other things.

 

WORTH IT.

Much like a timeless clothing item hanging in your closet, there are items for your home that feel like splurges initially, but in the end, you can't fathom life without them. See the seven household items experts say are well worth the investment. {image via Gal Meets Glam} 

LAND DOWN UNDER.

If you have even the slightest wanderlust for Australia, you'll be engrossed in the photo diary Kara Rosenlund captured on her trip to Stradboke Island (or as she quanitly calls it, Straddie), off the East coast.

HOUSTON HAPPENINGS.

Some claim winter is the best time to visit Texas when temperatures are bearable relative to the rest of the country. If you do find yourself in our Houston hub, don't miss the world-famous rodeo, the new Van Gogh exhibit and the foodie scene at Finn Hall. {image via MFAH}

THE FUTURE IS ______.

Some designers don't bother with the ongoing current of trends that come and go, but it's always interesting to take note of what forecasters predict. This site sees lots of chrome (bye, brass), passementerie and bouclé accents in our near future.  

PLATE POWER.

This restaurant in San Fran focuses almost as much attention to the vessel their dish is being served on as the food itself. Read about their treasure hunting process and the devastating aftermath when, inevitably, one breaks during the dining rush. 

Have a wonderful week and a very happy Valentine's Day. xo