The Elegance of Natural Branches: La Lune Collection’s Signature Design

Posted February 4, 2015 by La Lune Collection & filed under Interior Design, Rustic Beds, Rustic Chairs, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Seating, Rustic Sofas.

La Lune Collection is renowned for an extensive array of rustic furniture designs – and with hundreds of items offered in a variety of different rustic styles, the reputation is indeed well deserved. Some of La Lune’s most popular pieces, in what we consider a La Lune Collection signature design, are those that feature a striking display of free-form natural branches.

La Lune’s skilled furniture artisans have perfected the process for creating these organic works of art. After selecting branches for their individual and intrinsic beauty, the craftsman uses a discerning eye to carefully work them together into a handsome assemblage. The resulting creation is gently sanded and then followed by a finish application, rendering it smooth to the touch. (All La Lune finishes are non-polluting, non-toxic, non-flammable, water-based finishes which are locally manufactured exclusively for La Lune Collection.) Each completed item is entirely different from the next, and is in itself a true and unique artwork.

Take a look below at a few examples of La Lune Collection’s signature design –presenting the elegance of natural branches!

Rustic Bed #4304 in Natural Finish

An unquestionable masterpiece, the graceful and freeform contours of natural branches form the unique design feature on this Bed’s headboard and footboard. Strikingly beautiful, it will most surely draw compliments from anyone who sees it or sleeps in it!

Rustic Settee #1404 in Ebony Finish

The organic lines of nature are the design trademarks of this Settee, which is created by hand, using the same simple tools and techniques employed by furniture craftsman for several centuries.

Rustic Barstools #1390 in Natural Finish

Branches are exquisitely framed on the back of these Barstools – the seat and back are masterfully upholstered by our exceptional craftsmen, achieving the perfect combination of style, strength, and comfort.

Rustic Bench #1502 in Kahlua Finish

This magnificent Bench is crafted of hand-peeled cedar branches, making it perfect for outdoor use and demonstrating the unrivaled artistry and skill of La Lune Collection’s craftsmen.

La Lune Collection Side and Arm Chairs 1400, 1402 430

Rustic Side Chair #1400 & Rustic Arm Chair #1402 in Pecan Finish

It’s easy to see why this Side Chair and Arm Chair are La Lune Collection favorites, blending nature and artistic creativity with practical function.

Rustic Canopy Bed #4278 in Natural Finish

This charmingly beautiful Canopy Bed, a true La Lune Collection masterpiece, without question creates the impact of pure drama!

Where to put the King’s Robe? Majestic Rustic Armoires by La Lune Collection.

Posted January 21, 2015 by La Lune Collection & filed under Interior Design, Rustic Cabinets, Rustic Furniture.

There’s no question that the armoire– a tall, freestanding cabinet with doors, drawers, shelves and room for hanging clothes – is an imposing piece of furniture. Indeed, stemming from the Latin word “armorium” which means literally “a chest for storing armor”, the armoire’s original function was for storing armor and weapons. Eventually the armoire was elevated to become the designated safekeeping place for the king’s robe. In particular, armoires designed by André-Charles Boulle – the cabinetmaker to Louis XIV in the late 17th century – are historically recognized for their exquisite beauty.

Today, La Lune Collection armoires are recognized for their exquisite beauty and superb craftsmanship. Consider this sampling from La Lune’s armoire collection – we think you’ll agree they’re perfect for the king’s robe, as well as your own!

Rustic Armoire #2006

Locally sourced poplar and willow branches are meticulously cut and positioned by hand by La Lune Collection’s skilled artisans to create each individual pattern on this handsome Armoire.

Rustic Armoire #2024

This beautifully proportioned Armoire , shown here in Sage finish, is a striking addition to any living room, dining room, or bedroom.

Rustic Armoire #2046

A beautiful pattern of repeating geometric designs – hand applied by our furniture artisans – set this extraordinary Armoire apart from its peers. Our craftsmen proudly sustain the ancient tradition of hand-made rustic furniture, using the same methods and materials that were used by the earliest artisans.

Rustic Armoire #2029

Tall and sleek, the mirrored door on this Armoire in an Ebony finish adds light – and a feeling of lightness -to any room. The addition of a roomy bottom drawer adds bonus storage space.

Rustic Armoire #2064

Featuring a gently curved top and beautiful inlaid branch design, this Armoire – shown here in the striking Redwood finish – has the look and feel of furnishings from a bygone era. As with all La Lune Collection pieces, it is bench-made in our pristine Wisconsin workshop of locally harvested willow and poplar woods using sustainable, efficient, and eco-friendly manufacturing methods.

Looking Ahead… and Looking Back: The Top 5 La Blog Posts of 2014

Posted January 7, 2015 by La Lune Collection & filed under About La Lune Collection, Interior Design, Rustic Beds, Rustic Bunk Beds, Rustic Furniture.

Happy New Year wishes to all from La Lune Collection!

As we look forward to 2015, we’re excited to consider with anticipation the new opportunities, experiences – and beautiful new rustic furniture designs – that the new year will bring. At the same time, what fun it is for us to recall the full year that we have just left behind! And so, in the spirit of reflection, we share here our most popular La Blog posts of 2014.

1. Bunk Beds and Trundle Beds from La Lune – Not Just for Kids Anymore

At La Lune Collection we are big fans of the bunk bed – and we know we’re not alone. In recent years bunk beds have shown that they’re not just for kids’ rooms, dorm rooms, and summer camp anymore – and are proving themselves to be a stylish and functional answer to space-saving concerns.

2. Alfresco Dining à La Lune

It’s no secret that we love outdoor entertaining – and in particular alfresco dining – here at La Lune Collection. Whether it’s sharing dinner on the deck with friends, or serving cool refreshments in a screened porch nook with family members, we believe in making the most of the warm weather while it lasts!

3. Upholstered Beds by La Lune – Guaranteed to Bring Sweet Dreams!

There aren’t many things that generate a sense of tranquility like the elegant comfort of an upholstered bed. Luckily, La Lune Collection’s own master upholsterers carefully create beautiful upholstered beds and headboards that are certain to bring sweet dreams for many nights, years, and generations to come!

4. La Lune Collection ♥ Houzz!

At La Lune Collection we are big fans of Houzz – the online platform for home remodeling and design inspiration – which describes itself as “a community of more than 20 million homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals—across the country and around the world”. La Lune is happy to be a member of this vibrant community of “Houzzers” – and so are many of our amazing design clients.

La Lune Collection Elizabeth Robb Interiors

5. Meet La Lune Collection – Introducing the People “Behind the Moon”

Cathy & Mario Costantini, La Lune Collection

We enjoyed our “stroll” through 2014 and hope you did, too. Please join us in 2015 for more La Blog articles – it’s so easy – just visit our sign-up page!

La Lune Collection’s Winter Whites

Posted December 10, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under Interior Design, Rustic Beds, Rustic Bunk Beds, Rustic Cabinets, Rustic Chairs, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Seating, Rustic Tables.

Here in La Lune Collection’s beloved Wisconsin we are no strangers to the decorating magic of the season’s first snowfall. City streets, farmers’ fields, frozen lakes, and pine forests alike – after an evening of falling snowflakes everything awakes to a glistening white blanket, and the resulting landscape’s beauty is breathtaking.

Excited by our own first snow, we share here some charming snow-inspired words, accompanied by a few of our favorite “La Lune Collection Winter Whites” – a sampling of selected pieces shown in some of our many fabulous white finishes. We hope you enjoy!

“There is nothing in the world more beautiful than the forest clothed to its very hollows in snow.

It is the still ecstasy of nature, wherein every spray, every blade of grass,

Every spire of reed, every intricacy of twig, is clad with radiance.”

~William Sharp

Hutch #2066 in Taupe Finish

With its welcoming traditional appeal and superb craftsmanship, this Hutch has the look and feel of furnishings from a bygone era. Our craftsmen proudly sustain the ancient tradition of hand-made rustic furniture, using the same methods and materials that were used by the early artisans.

Six Drawer Chest #2190 in Antique White Finish

This finely crafted and extremely roomy Chest provides a beautiful place to store textiles, clothing, and other treasures. Our expert craftsmen have tended to every detail in its construction, carefully cutting and applying by hand the branches that make up its handsome design.

“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently?

And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt;

And perhaps it says, “Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.”

~ Lewis Carroll

La Lune Collection Side Chair #1040 + Arm Chair #1042

Side Chair #1040 & Arm Chair #1042 in Antique White Finish

This Chair’s design makes it a most versatile decorating piece, an appealing combination of sturdiness and rustic charm.

Bed #4304 (Queen) in Antique White Finish

An unquestionable masterpiece, the graceful and freeform lines of natural branches are the unique design feature on this Bed’s headboard and footboard. Strikingly beautiful, it will most surely will draw compliments from all who see it or sleep in it!

“Oh! The snow, the beautiful snow, filling the sky and earth below,

Over the housetops, over the street, over the heads of the people you meet.

Dancing, flirting, skimming along.”

~ Thomas Watson

Octagonal Table #3104 w/Pine Top in Whitewash Finish

An octagonal Table makes conversation easy for everyone seated, and this one is a La Lune favorite! Its inspired rustic design is created by our master craftsmen, featuring a delicate, precise branch “apron”, and a graceful, organic base of free-form branches.

Daybed #4054 in Sandstone Finish

A striking pattern of angled branches creates design interest on this handsome Daybed. Meticulous construction, kiln drying, special joints and finishes, and attention to every detail ensure its enduring beauty and comfort.

“Thank goodness for the first snow, it was a reminder–no matter how old you became and how much you’d seen, things could still be new if you were willing to believe they still mattered.”
~ Candace Bushnell

Canopy Bed #4092 (King) in Mushroom Finish

Elegant and stately, this Canopy Bed lends a sense of drama to any decorating style – equally at home in traditional, contemporary, and eclectic settings.

Bunk Bed #4257 in Bone Finish

Classic lines, rustic styling, and superior craftsmanship combine to create the ultimate sleeping experience with this charming Bunk Bed – genuinely the perfect blend of beauty and comfort.

All Good Dogs Deserve Good (La Lune) Beds

Posted November 26, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under Rustic Beds, Rustic Bunk Beds, Rustic Furniture.

Since 1978, La Lune Collection has been making fabulous beds for some of the most notable humans in the country, such as Ralph Lauren, Oprah, and Disney. At La Lune, we think that good dogs also deserve good beds! Our collection of adorable dog beds is the most comfortable, most natural, most durable, most attractive, and most eco-friendly dog beds possible. If we were dogs, we’re absolutely certain that these are the beds we would choose for napping!

Rustic Dog Canopy Bed #5110

Any sweet pooch would sleep soundly in this charming Dog Canopy Bed #5110, which is carefully handcrafted of poplar, a fast-growing, environmentally secure wood. La Lune uses only non-pollutant, nonflammable, non-toxic, water base finishes, making our dog beds the most eco-friendly possible.

Rustic Dog Bunk Bed #5134

When two dog friends want to rest together, Dog Bunk Bed #5134 is the natural choice to accommodate their wishes!

Rustic Dog Daybed #5102

Featuring a gently curved back and comfortable mattress and throw pillows, the stylish Dog Daybed #5102 has Bella the Pug sitting pretty!

Rustic Dog Daybed #5162

The classically beautiful Dog Daybed #5162 is carefully handcrafted of poplar, and as with all of La Lune dog beds, includes a handsewn mattress and pillows with removable zippered covers for easy washing.

Rustic Dog Cabana Bed #5120

The weather is always beautiful for any precious pup lucky enough to relax in the beautiful Dog Cabana Bed #5120!

Rustic Dog Chaise #5146

It’s common knowledge that a chaise is intended for relaxing – and no knows this better than Rocky the Mastiff, who is clearly enjoying a nap on his own Dog Chaise #5146.

5 Great Reasons to Put Your Feet Up … Beautiful Chaises by La Lune Collection

Posted November 12, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under Interior Design, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Seating.

There’s almost no piece of furniture that conjures up thoughts of relaxation like the chaise lounge does. Derived from the French term “chaise longue”, meaning quite literally “long chair,” a chaise is an upholstered seat for one, and its sole purpose is for reclining and relaxing.

The chaise lounge’s origins can be traced to ancient civilizations around the world, in places such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, Mexico, and China. In these early societies, chairs and chaises were reserved for royalty and those in authority, while the “common people” for the most part sat on benches or stools. The chaise lounge was popularized with the general public in France in the 1600’s, and five hundred years later, La Lune Collection proudly presents our own selection of beautiful chaises for all living spaces, indoors and outdoors.

1. Rustic Chaise #1181

The striking “diamond back” motif is a stand-out design element on this chaise – its combination of beauty and comfort make it the perfect spot for relaxing, lounging, and reading.

2. Rustic Chaise #1024

This chaise design demonstrates classic rustic charm at its finest – a comfortable cushion and throw pillow ensure its unmatched relaxation and style!

3. Rustic Chaise #1182

A genuinely comfortable lounging spot, this chaise is also a classically beautiful piece of furniture – marvelously constructed by hand, using the same simple tools and techniques employed by furniture craftsman for several centuries.

4. Rustic Chaise #1036

The masterfully tufted upholstery on this chaise defines its ultra-comfortable, yet sophisticated, appeal.

5. Rustic Chaise #1250

With its strong, sturdy, and classic lines, this chaise is equally at home in transitional, rustic, and eclectic settings.

La Lune Collection ♥ Houzz!

Posted October 29, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under About La Lune Collection, Interior Design, Rustic Chairs, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Seating, Rustic Tables.

We are big fans of Houzz – the online platform for home remodeling and design inspiration – at La Lune Collection.

Houzz describes itself as “a community of more than 20 million homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals—across the country and around the world”. La Lune is happy to be a member of this vibrant community of “Houzzers”, as are many of our amazing design clients. In fact, as of this writing, La Lune Collection’s beautiful rustic furniture is featured in over 100 spectacular design installation photographs on Houzz.

Truth be told, we would share all of these awe-inspiring residences if space permitted – instead we have opted to showcase just a few here, and encourage a more leisurely look at our complete ideabook, “La Lune Installations on Houzz”, to see more beautiful room designs. Enjoy!

1. Locati Architects, Bozeman, MT

Job’s Peak Ranch Residence, located in Gardnerville, NV

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Sofa #1170, Console Table #3268, Club Chair #1174, Coffee Table #3252, Rocking Chairs #1189

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Locati Architects

2. Axial Arts Architecture, Steamboat Springs, CO

Meadow Cabin, located in Grand County, CO

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Club Chair #1006 & Ottoman #1010

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Axial Arts Architecture

3. Elizabeth Robb Interiors, Bozeman, MT

Bozeman Retreat, located in Bozeman, MT

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Club Chairs #1174, Table #3368, Chaises #1182

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Elizabeth Robb

4. Miller Architects, Livingston, MT

Great Point Lodge @ Gallatin Mountains, located in Livingston, MT

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Sofa #1016, Coffee Table #3228, Club Chairs #1020 & Ottoman #1010, Dining Table #3089, Dining Chairs #1040

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Miller Architects

5. Johnson Architecture, Knoxville, TN

Mountain Cabin, located in Tennessee

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Side Chairs #1208, Sofa #1170, Rocking Chair #1190, Dining Table #Dining Table #3112

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Johnson Architecture

6. Kathryn Long, ASID, Asheville, NC

Residence located in Lake Toxaway, NC

La Lune Collection furniture pictured: Side Chairs #1400

La Lune Collection Furnishings - Design by Kathryn Long, ASID

Come Clubbing with us at La Lune Collection!

Posted October 15, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under Rustic Chairs, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Seating.

When there’s talk of “clubbing” at La Lune Collection, what we’re really referring to is our large – and beautiful – collection of rustic club chairs.

It’s well known that club chairs are substantial armchairs designed for maximum comfort and style. The origin of the chair’s term “club”, however, is less clear. The best explanation we’ve found is that it hearkens back to the large, comfy chairs found in gentlemen’s clubs – members-only private clubs catering to aristocratic British men – that became popular in the mid 1800’s.

But, whatever the club chair’s history may be, there’s no question that La Lune Collection’s rustic club chairs are wonderfully – and handsomely – comfortable in today’s homes. Take a look at just a few examples and see if you agree!

Rustic Club Chair #1167 & Ottoman #1173

With graceful and classic lines, this Club Chair and Ottoman are equally at home today in traditional, contemporary, and eclectic settings. Each piece is created by hand, using the same simple tools and techniques employed by furniture craftsman for several centuries.

Rustic Club Chair #1175 & Ottoman #1173

The striking “diamond back” design on this Club Chair is truly a stand-out design element, which makes it a perfect centerpiece OR accent piece and notable for both its comfort and beauty.

Rustic Club Chair #1270

A wrap-around spindle treatment creates design interest on this roomy, comfortable Chair, which is a classic example of sturdy, rustic elegance at its best.

Rustic Club Chair #1006 & Ottoman #1010

Inspired by classic rustic furniture designs of the past, this Club Chair and Ottoman are equally at home today in traditional, contemporary, and eclectic settings.

Rustic Club Chair #1261 and Ottoman #1263

La Lune Collection’s fine wood craftsmen have meticulously created hand-notched designs on this Club Chair and Ottoman – their artistry is truly unrivaled, and the result is a perfect combination of style, strength, and comfort.

Rustic Club Chair #1276 & Ottoman #1277

Looking to make a really bold, rustic design statement? This sturdy, ultra-comfortable Chair and Ottoman are just the right pieces to make it happen!

Meet La Lune Collection – Introducing the People “Behind the Moon”

Posted October 1, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under About La Lune Collection, Rustic Furniture.

Storied basketball coach, Phil Jackson, once wrote “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” At La Lune Collection we believe these words capture the spirit of our own team. La Lune is known in the design industry for our high standards of design and production quality, as well as our unparalleled customer service, and we credit our excellent team for our reputation. We’re proud and happy to introduce here our wonderful La Lune Collection team.

Meet Cathy and Mario, Co-founders & Principals

Cathy and Mario met in college, and shortly after graduation married and started their namesake interior design firm in downtown Milwaukee over 35 years ago. Mario subsequently designed a few pieces of rustic furniture for a restaurant project, and the rest is La Lune Collection history!

An interesting fact about Mario: Born and raised in Argentina, Mario is a soccer enthusiast and has played and coached at all levels for over 40 years – he played for Marquette University as a college student, and later coached teams from toddlers to varsity high school players.

An interesting fact about Cathy: Cathy is an avid opera fan, and has served for many years on the Florentine Opera Company board of directors. (The Florentine Opera also maintains its opera center, administrative offices, and studio artist residences in La Lune Collection buildings.)

Meet Cindy, Sales Manager

Cindy came to La Lune 28 years ago and is our resident order “guru” – taking and processing orders, expertly handling customer service and status inquiries, scheduling shipments – really “shepherding” La Lune orders from beginning to finish.

An interesting fact about Cindy: Cindy is a true dog lover – for the past several years she has moderated on online forum for dog owners dealing with pets whose lives have been affected by Cushing’s disease.

Meet Toty, Production Manager

Toty has been overseeing every detail of production – ensuring that La Lune orders are constructed perfectly and shipped on time – for over 26 years.

An interesting fact about Toty: A world class jazz guitarist, Toty is leader of the Latin jazz band, La Chazz, a group comprised of some of the finest Latin jazz musicians in Milwaukee.

Meet Jen, Design Director

Jen is a genuine artist, and is behind most of the beautiful furniture pencil drawings that were the genesis of the first La Lune Collection catalog. She manages daily design-related responsibilities which include drawing – by hand – all custom order illustrations.

An interesting fact about Jen: Jen spent a portion of her childhood growing up in Nigeria, and continues to feel a solid connection to that part of the world.

Chloe, La Lune Collection Design Associate

Meet Chloe, Design Associate

Chloe is the newest member of the team, and comes to La Lune Collection straight from the darkrooms and classrooms of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. At La Lune Chloe is the official in-house photographer and supports all design-related work in the company.

An interesting fact about Chloe: Chloe recently spent a year studying and traveling in Ireland, and has developed a deep love of the country’s beautiful landscape, culture, and people.

Meet our La Lune Craftsmen

We couldn’t be more proud of our amazing craftsmen! Each piece of La Lune Collection furniture is carefully crafted by hand in our Wisconsin facility by some of the most skilled furniture artisans in the country, including carpenters, finishers, upholsterers, seamstresses, and cabinetmakers.

Seven Reasons to Covet a (Rustic) Coffee Table

Posted September 10, 2014 by La Lune Collection & filed under Interior Design, Rustic Furniture, Rustic Tables.

In the seating areas of today’s home – be they living rooms, family rooms, or dens – coffee tables have become a must-have staple. A coffee table is a place to arrange books and magazines, display accessories, and of course, set down your coffee cup. Due to its central placement it easily becomes a focal point in any room, so choosing just the right coffee table is an important design decision.

Here are a few things to consider when making a coffee table choice:

Rectangular or oval coffee tables work well for smaller rooms.
Square or round coffee tables are great for larger seating configurations, such as large sectionals or a large sofa and love seat.
For optimal scale, consider a coffee table that is no larger than two-thirds your sofa’s or loveseat’s total length.
Finally – and most importantly – choose a coffee table design that really “speaks” to you.

Need some inspiration to help you choose a coffee table that’s just right for your seating area? Below are seven beautiful rustic coffee tables from La Lune Collection that will get you off to an excellent start!

1. Rustic Coffee Table with Willow Top #3250

Skilled artisans meticulously cut and apply branches by hand to create the beautiful geometric pattern on this table. La Lune’s craftsmen travel the rivers and forests of Wisconsin to carefully select and harvest the woods used to construct each piece in the collection.