Store

It's an interesting juxtaposition walking into Design Within Reach. This shop full of modern furniture features everything from lamps to bar stools displayed on the original old-school octagonal-tile flooring of what used to be the lobby of a 1902 hotel. Everything here has the look of functionality and conscious design, and I can easily visualize the pieces in one of the trendy condos nearby.

"We have a range of products here for every budget," says Cornett. For example, there's shelving for $175 and sofas for $2,795. Notable pieces include the Sussex collection, a series of credenzas and storage cabinets by a Spanish manufacturer that specializes in wood production. The furniture is finished from front to back and can easily "float" in the middle of a room. And the poofy Nelson Bubble lamps are sure to make a statement.

Design Within Reach is also a great place for instant gratification. "Over 90 percent of what we carry is available, in stock and ships within 24 hours," says store manager Christopher Cornett.

By Kathy Schultz
NWsource shopping columnist