With January here, many of us are dreading winter’s long, dreary onset. It means shorter days, longer nights and spending time indoors reading, knitting or sitting fireside and catching up on movies. Dreaded nights be damned, as the Crawleys of Downton Abbey have returned to our midst. With the Great War upon them, we’re anxiously awaiting if Mr. Bates’s past will be unearthed and if Anna will accept him; whether Thomas will be revealed as a scheming cad and war dodger; and, most important, will Matthew and Lady Mary finally get it together? To commemorate the occasion, we thought these Victorian-inspired items might resonate with fans of the show. In fact, we’d be so bold to say that their addition could instantly elevate one’s abode from ordinary homestead to lavish manorhood.

Beacon by Hudson Valley Lighting^®

Beacon by Hudson Valley Lighting

Perfect for brightening the butler’s pantry, kitchen or entryway, Hudson Valley Lighting’s Beacon is certain to add understated but essential drama to any room. With finely tuned detailing and streamlined hardware, this attractive pendant or flush-mount application provides functional elegance suitable for everyday.

Broadway by THG^®

Broadway by THG

With a range of more than 35 available finishes, THG’s Broadway tap is elegant enough for a lady’s glamorous bath or would make a welcome addition to the handsome water closet located off the billiards room. Streamlined, the Broadway, with classic detailing and featuring handsome inset porcelain, will certainly never talk out of turn.

Canterbury Floor-Mounted Tub Filler by GRAFF^®

Canterbury by GRAFF

There is nothing more evocative of period-style than perfectly appointed freestanding floor-mounted tub fillers. GRAFF’s Canterbury tub filler is a study in grace and stature: reminiscent of days gone by but engineered for today’s more discerning homeowner. Available in seven finishes (polished chrome, Steelnox^® satin nickel, olive bronze, polished nickel, neo brass and antiqued brushed nickel), with a matching handshower and an optional ceramic insert, plus a healthy 50 inch shower hose, the Canterbury is the perfect choice for the Victorian bath.

Circa Vanity by Stone Forest^®

Circa Vanity by Stone Forest

Hand-carved from a single block of carrara marble, the Circa Vanity and offers a bold, architectural alternative to the Vintage Washbasin. Two options for the stand include open Palmer legs, or a wengé or maple cabinet by Vanity Flair.

La Scala by Corbett Lighting

La Scala by Corbett Lighting

The very definition of excess and opulence executed exquisitely is Corbett Lighting’s chandelier, La Scala. Combining multi-faceted clear beads and smoky crystal drops, La Scala takes drama to a new level with its cascading tiers, flame-inspired bulbs and silver leaf finish. Also available as a sconce, La Scala is offered as a six-, eight and 18-light chandelier and seems perfectly at ease in a dining room or main entryway as it does adorning the grand ballroom.

Finally, check out this video to learn more about the extraordinary history of the real-life “Abbey.”

1. It’s a LED, LED, LED World

Disc by CSL (Creative Systems Lighting)

There is no escaping it – LEDs are the lighting buzz word for 2012. Since LEDs are so compact, lighting manufacturers are no longer limited to the same old forms for decorative fixtures. They can now design and fabricate fixtures in new shapes, sizes and configurations that they couldn’t do before with incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs. Best examples? Stiletto by Corbett Lighting and Disc by CSL® (Creative Systems Lighting).

Stiletto by Corbett Lighting

2. Steampunk Style

Raleigh by Troy Lighting

Steampunk style—a re-imagination of the past, with an eye towards the future—has been gaining a lot of well, steam, over the past few years. Lighting manufacturers will continue to unveil fixtures that honor the industrialized style in 2012. Best examples? Raleigh by Troy Lighting, which is also LED, Rise and Fall by Hudson Valley Lighting® and Beaumont by Troy Lighting Outdoor.

Rise and Fall by Hudson Valley Lighting

3. Warm Metals

Muse by Corbett Lighting

2011 was the year of cool polished metal, but 2012 will feel warmer and softer with bronze, gold and copper tones. Best Examples? Corbett Lighting’s layered Muse “wows” with a soft Tranquility silver leaf finish and faceted crystals. Link by Troy Lighting features a rustic yet contemporary bronze leaf finish, while the Cymbal sconce impresses with hand-forged iron bronze leaf in an Umbria bronze finish.

Cymbal sconce by Troy Lighting

4. Eco-Chic

Raffia by Troy Lighting

With everyone moving towards sustainability, lighting fixtures constructed from eco-friendly materials are more in demand than ever. We’re talking about woods, stones, crystals and other renewable sources. Best examples? Raffia by Troy Lighting features a warm, translucent shade made from Raffia palms, while Bento features a lamp shade made from plantation-grown Saguran and a frame made from recycled mahogany.

Bento by Troy Lighting

With such noteworthy lighting trends and products, the promise of 2012 is certainly looking bright!

Sommerhaus Piu

When it comes to pre-fabricated eco-houses, the Sommerhaus Piu by German architects Patrick Frey and Götte Björn is unparalled in design. Envisioned as a vacation house, but usable for other purposes including as a work studio, Sommerhaus Piu offers the ultimate in streamlined, elegant living.

Crafted from sustainable woods for a modern, naturalistic feel, Sommerhaus Piu is designed to offer its inhabitants both a luxurious indoor feel and outdoor relaxation and recreation facilities. The home should ideally be erected on or near a natural, open site for maximum benefit. The façade features a simple, wooden strip style with a slightly sloping roof made from charcoal planks. Sections of the roof are perforated to provide a system of natural ventilation. An abundance of natural light pours into the house through clerestory windows, however the roof’s overhang provides protection from overexposure. Large sliding glass doors blur the boundary between home and nature, creating an environment of beautiful scenery; however, the bedroom of the home is closed off for total privacy. Additionally, a wide open terrace, painted dark to define the edge of the house, and covered veranda allow for alfresco dining and other outdoor activities.

Sommerhaus Piu by Patrick Frey and Götte Björn

Ultimately, the eco-friendly design of Sommerhaus Piu provides a pleasurable and comfortable green environment for its inhabitants, as well as a lower costing option for a summer home. It is the ideal home for those who want to have a getaway in the summer where they can relax indoors while having the option to enjoy the outdoors as well. Furthermore, the Sommerhaus Piu has been designed so that it is livable during all seasons.

Crab Creek House designed by Robert Gurney

Near an eye-catching estuary in Annapolis, Maryland, known as Crab Creek, which feeds the Chesapeake Bay, is a modern stone, stucco and slatted wood house from the vivid imagination of Robert Gurney Architect. Known as Crab Creek House, it is innovatively built on the foundation of a post and beam house from the 1960’s. Perhaps most impressively, its construction adheres to strict environmental regulations of the region, and does so with amazing style and grace.

Crab Creek House interior

The central spine of Crab Creek House is a linear bar clad in white stucco around which the rest of the home’s design elements are organized. Additional spaces arise independently and are sided in wood or metal. With a desire to create a strong relationship between the interior of the house and the exterior environment, floor to ceiling windows allow abundant natural light to flood in. Crab Creek House’s main living area offers its occupants expansive water views and features high ceilings and soft neutral tones. An open floor plan creates a space that appears much bigger than it actually is, and utilizes materials such as white oak, black slate, white marble, rusted steel and glass for a visceral and elegant look. The variation in color contrasts and materials makes a bold statement and clearly defines the house’s visual personality. Minimal furnishings and indirect recessed lighting further puts emphasis on thoughtful and balanced living. Occupants may step outside to a private swimming pool, or venture further out into the untouched Maryland woods. Crab Creek House is the ideal home for those who value gorgeous views and a deep connection to nature.

Crab Creek House backyard

Robert Gurney Architect believes that “The vast majority of houses constructed today are anemic replications of beloved houses built in a bygone era.” Their philosophy is that “architecture must break from unnatural and unhealthy imitation.” Adhering to this philosophy, they have numerous projects in addition to Crab Creek House to their credit including: the Lorber Tarler residence, an existing row house in Washington DC, reimagined as a modern, urban, light-filled dwelling for a professional couple; the Lujan House, located in Delaware and designed to integrate living spaces with the outdoors, specifically around a garden; and the Windyridge Residence in West Virginia, conceived as a village stretched across the top of a mountain. The Styleture editorial team is certainly a fan.

Mix and Match

“From high-low pricing, to mixed finishes and styles, antiques and vintage mixed with modern forms – true eclecticism is taking hold in the design world,” said Merrill. It’s partly a response to the economy and partly environmental. “We’re all reusing and refurbishing what we have, stretching the budget, splurging on some items, saving on others, keeping things out of landfills,” she adds.

Mix and match Hastings Tile & Bath's GDO Raised Panel Ceramic Tile

With Hudson Valley Lighting's® Chatham

The Old-World Lived In Look

“The ‘old-world’ Belgian design style that has been in for a couple of years is still going strong,” said Merrill. “It features weathered gray oaks, the natural patina of age and use, the weighty feeling of good construction, and it’s ready to last generations. Nothing is overly fussy or precious.”

GRAFF®’s Bali faucet in Oil Rubbed Bronze

Spa Bath

Our lives are so stressful that more people are looking to relax at home and feel like they’re off at a high-end spa. Merrill tells her clients, “Calming colors, simple lines and ease of use are the key ingredients. Calgon, take me away!”

Stone Forest's® Papillon Bathtub

It’s looking like it’s going to be another great season for interior design this Fall and we thank Linda Merril for her insights, which are always welcome on the pages of Styleture.

1. Cache by Zephyr^®

Cache range hood by Zephyr

Cache’s subdued and elegant design is only enhanced by its ability to eschew clutter and create ordered elegance in the kitchen. Cache offers a spacious storage compartment discreetly hidden beneath a sweeping, understated hood and utensil rail.

2. Profile Smart by Caroma^®

Profile Smart toilet/sink combo by Caroma

The Profile Smart is a compact basin, faucet and dual flush toilet tank in one. The integrated faucet utilizes fresh water for washing hands – just like a typical cold-water tap. The water then drains from the basin into the toilet tank reservoir below until it is used for flushing. Now that’s what we call ingenious , sustainable design!

3. Vesta Fire Table by Stone Forest^®

Vesta Fire Table by Stone Forest

Urban backyards and smaller outdoor spaces don’t have to compromise design, as Stone Forest asks the question, ‘why not combine your fire pit with your outdoor table?’ The Vesta Fire Table’s granite top and stainless steel base provide a safe, sturdy and eye-catching vehicle for producing warm outdoor flames—and a table for alfresco entertaining.

Xylem Bambu 36″ Vanity in Dark Bamboo

The Xylem Bambu 36" Vanity in Dark Bamboo

The eco-renewable bamboo veneer is the starting point for this versatile and fresh design vanity. Highlighted with natural bamboo accents, it can be wall mounted or floor-standing using either of two floor stands that provide comfortable heights for vessel applications or under-mount lavatory installations.

Stone Forest Bamboo Quattro Vessel

The Stone Forest Bamboo Quattro Vessel

This piece elevates “green” living to its full potential. Lightweight and water-resistant, this captivating sink is crafted from the laminated exterior of a bamboo shoot, making the vessel a durable and smart decorating option.

Organize It All Bamboo Stationary Caddy

The Organize It All Bamboo Stationary Caddy

This bathroom shower caddy can sit in the corner of your shower stall, or beside the tub, to keep soaps, hair care products and sponges close at hand. Made of carbonized bamboo, the shower shelf has a modern eco-friendly look that will never go outdated.

Bali Bamboo Bath Collection

The Bali Bamboo Bath Collection

Bring the quality and freshness of nature inside your bathroom with this perfect bathroom collection made from 100% natural bamboo. The multi-piece set features a cotton jar, lotion dispenser, soap dish, toothbrush holder, tray, tissue cover, toilet brush and holder, tumbler and waste bin.

Anji Mountain 2′ × 3′ Bamboo Kitchen/Bath Mat

The Anji Mountain 2′ × 3′ Bamboo Kitchen/Bath Mat

This mat offers an exquisite inlaid bamboo design and glossy finish that adds a natural sophistication to your kitchen and bath. Made from 100% eco-friendly bamboo from the Anji Mountains in China, its high-gloss finish is both beautiful and durable. Non-skid rubber backing provides cushion and keeps mat in place. Feels warm under bare feet in winter and cool in summer. Water-resistant surface.

Undoubtedly, with such products as the ones above, it’s easy to turn any bath environment into an eco-chic setting that is certain to make you feel good

Stone Forest Versailles Farmhouse Sink

The Stone Forest Versailles Farmhouse Sink

This Stone Forest beauty features a polished inside and rim with raised carving on the front apron. Available in Beige Granite, Papiro Cream Marble, Black Granite, and Jerusalem Gold. External dimensions 10 × 33 × 22.

Herbeau “Luberon” Fireclay Farm House Sink

The Herbeau “Luberon” Fireclay Farm House Sink

The Luberon’s distinctive French Provencal style evokes the rustic beauty of Provence while the sink’s fireclay construction ensures a smooth surface for years to come. External dimensions: 30″ × 19″ × 10″ (Due to the nature of fireclay, variations of up to 1/4″ in size can occur.)

Pegasus Farmer Apron Front Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

The Pegasus Farmer Apron Front Double Bowl Kitchen Sink

This Pegasus will give your kitchen an updated modern look with a charming old-fashioned country feel. Made from fine fireclay for beauty and durability, it can be installed “on” the countertop or may be installed as a traditional apron sink with the face showing proudly into the kitchen area. External dimensions: 35” x 24”.

Vigo Farmhouse Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink Faucet and Dispenser

The Vigo Farmhouse Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink Faucet and Dispenser

This Vigo sink offers top quality and a unique design in a commercial grade premium scratch-resistant finish. The faucet features a dual pull out spray head for aerated flow or powerful spray. Vigo finishes resist corrosion and tarnishing, exceeding industry durability standards. Exterior dimensions: 33” x 22.25”.

Highpoint Collection Copper Farmhouse Forest Animal Pattern Kitchen Sink

The Highpoint Collection Copper Farmhouse Forest Animal Pattern Kitchen Sink

This Highpoint Collection farmhouse sink features a forest animal pattern that is made from smooth copper formed by pressing the copper into shape. This kitchen sink also spotlights a standard 3.5-inch drain opening and is made from copper. Exterior dimensions: 30” x 20” x 10”.

After viewing these impressive farmhouse sinks, we can’t imagine that you wouldn’t want to go “country” with your kitchen, too.

Zephyr 36” Napoli Island Range Hood

The Zephyr 36” Napoli Island Range Hood

This range hood is part of Zephyr’s Next Generation Europa line. Napoli is a classic island range hood design. Strong with upwardly-angled walls, Napoli makes an impression in any kitchen. Upgraded with Zephyr’s DCBL Suppression System, Bloom HD LED bulbs and the unique Quick-Lock installation system, Napoli is as easy to install as it is to look at. A technological achievement, Napoli is a cut above the rest.

Best by Broan 51″ Island Chimney Range Hood

The Best by Broan 51" Island Chimney Range Hood

Broan has been in the kitchen ventilation business since 1932. This classic style island hood features a powerful yet quiet internal 1000 CFM blower with HVI certified performance. Four halogen lamps provide brilliant cooktop lighting. Heat Sentry detects excessive heat and adjusts speed to high automatically. Quick-release, stainless steel/aluminum mesh filters are dishwasher-safe. All that and it comes in three attractive metal finishes and optional trim finishes including: chrome, brushed stainless, or polished brass.

Cavaliere Euro 48″ Island Mounted Range Hood

The Cavaliere Euro 48" Island Mounted Range Hood

Your kitchen never looked so good with this stainless Cavaliere as its center piece. Ideal for a kitchen remodel, it features a telescopic chimney that fits up to a 9-foot ceiling, a 900 CFM Centrifugal blower, four 35W, dimmable halogen lights (dimmable), and a touch sensitive keypad with blue LED lights. It also has a 30-hour cleaning reminder and a delayed power auto shut off (programmable 1-15 minutes). And did we mention how good it looks?

Vent-A-Hood 42″ 550 CFM Island Mounted Range Hood

The Vent-A-Hood 42" 550 CFM Island Mounted Range Hood

Undeniably stunning in its design, this Vent-A-Hood has a patented speed control system that allows the blower to be turned to half speed for light cooking, but automatically returns to high speed when heat rise is detected. Featuring a 550 CFM motor with a dual blower, added to the range hood are halogen lights to keep you safe in low light times. The Vent-A-Hood ‘Magic Lung’ blower is a patented way to remove bad smells and smoke from a home quickly and quietly. No matter the speed, the ‘Magic Lung’ will be quiet even at higher speeds.

Viking 36″ Island Chimney Range Hood

The Viking 36" Island Chimney Range Hood

This Viking is one nifty stainless steel range hood. With the help of a heat sensor, you can cook without a care as its ventilator automatically increases power if temperatures reach uncomfortable levels. Dimmer-controlled halogen lights create a warm ambiance and custom lighting design in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy better visibility and a picturesque display.

Judging by the range hoods above, we’re clearly in a unique time where design and technology have coalesced to bring us hoods that are a significant cut above anything that was developed prior.

The ultra-modern Hoerboard Scomber mix DJ stand

Admit it – you’ve entertained dreams of telling your boss at your day job to go fly a kite, just so you can jet off to Ibiza and DJ the summer club circuit. It’s ok, we all have. Perhaps that dream was never more appealing than now, considering that the ultra-modern Hoerboard Scomber Mix DJ Stand is just a few thousand bucks ($2,330 once fully customized, to be more precise) away from being yours.

Hoerboard Scomber's Dutch Orange finish

If this puppy looked anything more like a Macbook, or something from the minds of Apple’s genius design team, it would, well, be made by Apple. The white has that sleek, glossy finish we have come to know, love and expect from our modern electronic equipment and gadgetry; for that matter, so do the plethora of other colors – Apple Green, Dutch Orange, Basalt Grey and Night Black – in which the Hoerboard Scomber Mix DJ Stand is available. Each DJ workstation can be customized with mixers, turntables, CD-players, space for your laptop or whatever else you may desire. Making it so any turntables fit perfectly into their own design-forward workstation, the stand consists of two units to make you more mobile, like on that aforementioned jaunt to Ibiza. The top of the deck is fixed to a laser-cut powder-coated steel support and all cables are made invisible by a smartly designed corpus. Turntable positioning comes with two options: To be angled in a battle position to give you ample mixing and scratching mobility, or in a classic position for standard mixing needs. With the well-designed laptop clip, you can be sure your precious storehouse of music isn’t going to crash to the floor and cause you to have a heart attack in the middle of your masterful performance. When not in use, you can cover the stand with the custom dust hood, which is designed to be almost invisible for a pleasing aesthetic. There’s no doubt that Hoerboard is on the leading edge of turntable design; the company has infused the creative German spirit into all of its elegant pieces and made them fully customizable to meet your needs. At once simple and highly thoughtful in terms of functionality, the company assures customers that their products will last a very long time.

The top of the deck is fixed to a laser-cut powder-coated steel support

As the brainchild of master designer David Kornmann, the Hoerboard Scomber Mix DJ Stand is leading the evolution of DJ-ing equipment. If you’re a working DJ, or dream of being one, don’t make the mistake of not checking out the company’s gear at www.hoerboard.com