Best of the 2012 Idea House-- Part 1

By John Voket, RISMedia Consumer Confidant

I look forward to each July when Southern Living unveils its annual Idea House - and this July was no different. Just a tad southwest of Atlanta is quaint and rural Senoi, Ga., home of the Southern Living 2012 Idea House.

Again this year, my friends at Ballard Designs teamed up with Southern Living to furnish and decorate this historic farmhouse renovation. So in the next couple of segments we’ll take a peek at the Top 10 Ballard accessories or furnishings that are helping to breathe new life into this 1830s-era home.

Here are the first five:

1. Braided Jute Rug - a bit dressier than traditional jutes, Ballard’s jute collection for the Idea House is extra thick and feels surprisingly soft, even on bare feet. Hand-woven of golden 100 percent jute and finished with thick, hand knotted 3" fringe, the rugs offer slip resistant latex backing for added durability - and start at about $39.

2. Take Ballard's Hand Made leather hanging mirror wherever you need it. A popular decorative piece that recalls the work of designer Jacques Adnet for Parisian design house Hermes in the 1950s, this simple round mirror is wrapped in rich chestnut leather and hangs from a leather strap secured by three metal belt buckles, imitating the sleek look of equestrian hardware. Priced at $449.

3. The Idea House’s Rutland Counter Stool embodies pure, simple design with a sculptural look that works with any décor. Perfect for perching indoors or out, the gently curved back is just the right height and comfortable shape, and features a powder coat that resists rust and moisture. Priced at $139.

4. The Niles Double Coat Rack has similar appeal to the Rutland stools. Load up the double hanging rails with guests' coats during the holidays and off–season clothing the rest of the year. Two lattice shelves hold boots, hats and bags. Priced at $179.

5. The comfortable, tufted burlap seat gives the rustic industrial look a touch of sophistication. A cushioned seat lifts off for storing extra bedding, magazines or towels. Crafted of weathered wood slats hand tied with wire and stenciled on each side, the bench also features cutout handles for easy carrying. Priced at $349.

Want to check out more 2012 Idea House accessories and furnishings? Check out the next installment or visit ballarddesigns.com. And to learn about visiting the Senoia area and the 2012 Idea House through December 23, visit southernliving.com.