Lobel Modern

Perfect end tables. This from NB, who has the most beautiful wood endtables in her apartment that she found at Lobel Modern (the one's pictured are different, but also exquisite and for sale at the store: Edward Wormley - $5,500). If you are serious about fine furniture and jones for mid-century modern (all the rage, right now), this looks like one of the stops on your map. While I have yet to get there myself, I spoke to Evan Lobel and he gave me the facts: He has been open for 5 years and sells original mid-century furnishings by designers like Edward Wormley, Tommi Parzinger, Harvey Probber and Karl Springer, amongst others. (Pic right - Mr. and Mrs. Club Chairs in ivory chenille $7,500) His prices range from $350 for a pillow to $30,000 for a rare pair of side chairs, and I would estimate the average price tag at around $5,000, which raises it above Student - Ikea ($), above Professional - Crate and Barrel ($$) and into the realm of Collector ($$$). Not only does Evan sell furniture, he also sells lighting, ceramics, glassware and art, all of which can be clearly seen on the website, but this is only a taste, as he has far more in the shop. The Good? I like stores where the owner picks up the phone, and the taste and eye are discerning. The Bad? While some pieces standout, you have to be a real die hard for this style to love it all, and, of course, it ain't cheap. MGR