Gallery

Laurie and John Fairman have combined their extensive knowledge of antiques (they own Honeychurch Antiques on Westlake Ave.) and Asia (John grew up in Hong Kong where his parents and grandparents ran a brisk Asian import/export business). The result, named after John's globe-trotting father, is a stunning collection of contemporary and antique Asian furniture and accessories and the stories that go with them. Of particular popularity are the Japanese tonsus - chests made from soft paulownia wood that grows in Japan and the Pacific Northwest. By tradition in Japan, the tree is planted when a girl is born, and by the time she is ready to marry, it can be harvested to make furniture.

This is the place for major pieces, such as long, slender tables, hulking wardrobes or shelves that line the walls - as well as accent pieces in the form of kilim pillows, bamboo poles, colorful mirrored-fabric Indian tents and lanterns, copper pots and Tibetan prayer rugs.

For those who want to extend the theme outside the home, the Fairmans have a selection of smart carved granite lanterns, fountains and pagodas.

Tip: Check out the selection of Japanese Girl's Day dolls. At around $35 each, they make great gifts that put plain old Barbie to shame.

By Vanessa McGrady
Special to NWsource