By Rhonda ReinhartBy Rhonda Reinhart|December 12, 2019|Home & Real Estate,
Two new stores hit Houston's design scene: Meet Etel and Wisteria.
Etel Houston co-owners Caroline Tonisi and Angelica Nechar
Brazilian Beauties With the September opening of Etel, the Brazilian brand known for its sleek made-to-order modern furniture, Shops at Arrive has added some South American flavor to its mix of international design destinations. The company’s first flagship in the United States (others are in Sao Paulo and Milan), Etel Houston showcases original pieces by founder Etel Carmona and other contemporary Brazilian designers, as well as reissues of iconic creations by some of Brazil’s most renowned midcentury architects. In one window of the gallery, Oscar Niemeyer’s Rio rocking chair—first released in 1977—beckons passersby with its graceful curves and exquisite caning. In another spot, Carmona’s wooden Esteira screen provides an undulating backdrop for Lina Bo Bardi’s 1951 Bola de Latao armchair. Even better than the furnishings’ knockout good looks and the brand’s dedication to preserving Brazil’s design history, each Etel piece is handcrafted using sustainable techniques and eco-friendly materials. 2800 Kirby Drive, Ste. B112
Nautical knots low-seating teak chair, $449
Texas Two-Step After nearly 20 years in business and 10 years of operating a popular Dallas shop, Wisteria has expanded to Houston. The globally inspired furniture and decor company opened in November in the former Antiques of River Oaks space. Like its sister showroom in Dallas, the 9,000-square-foot store showcases Wisteria’s exclusive designs mixed with one-of-a-kind vintage pieces sourced from around the world. Unique to the Houston location is a skylit greenhouse where customers can meet with in-house design consultants. “We also have plans to use the space for small events and classes,” says Wisteria President Caryn Lerner. In store, look for Lerner’s favorite new pieces, including the acrylic and glass Disappearing side table ($699) and a handmade velvet pleated club chair ($999). 3461 W. Alabama St.