Pieces. The name is an editor’s dream. One simple word that says it all. Home furnishings boutique owner, Lee Kleinhelter, had the name in her head long before she actually opened her doors. “I wanted it to encompass what we were doing, but also be catchy enough to remember… not something trendy,” she explains.
Lee’s “fiercely” editorial approach has caused a big splash in Atlanta, where we have no shortage of pretty shops. Fresher and more accessible than the posh antique stores, but more pulled together than the quirky vintage places, Pieces is a weekly dose of eye candy for many shoppers. Much of Lee’s merchandise is 1960s – 70s furniture which she has reinvented, often using vintage David Hicks books as inspiration (as above). Chairs and lamps with custom shades are her signatures.
Above, a guest room in her own home photographed for Cottage Living.
Although Lee’s personal style is extremely clean-lined, she is known for selecting furnishings with excellent “bones” that can work in a wide range of interiors. The other day when we spoke, 26 newly upholstered chairs were being delivered to the shop. She commented, “It’s like having a birthday or Christmas when we finally get the pieces on the floor. It usually takes so many steps from when I’ve first purchased a piece…often [the process] takes months.” When asked about a favorite, Lee said it would be impossible to choose.
“Usually it’s the first instinct decisions that work out the best. If I have to work too hard at brainstorming an idea to update pieces, then it’s too forced and never comes across the way I planned.” In terms of style, paint color and fabric selection, Lee added, “I am very decisive and love when everything works…I just hope I keep providing something that inspires people to look at furniture in a different way, and at the spaces in their home.”
Traveling has a huge impact on Lee’s design sense, and on her choices for the shop. She definitely relates to Jonathan Adler’s aesthetic. Recently she and her skilled contractor husband enjoyed a stay at The Parker, with camera in hand.
She studies hardware, color, line and texture, and incorporates what she sees into her own furniture. Like Adler and Kelly Wearstler, Lee prefers very graphic pieces. She nearly always recovers chairs and sofas with a gutsy solid; her chair frames usually have a pristine finish. Pattern (often a geometric) is reserved for pillows.
If you love Lee’s eye, she’s chosen many small holiday gifts available through Pieces online and in-store. Her faves include: Adler ornaments, cool carved vases, bone and hide picture frames, chunky wool throws, budget-friendly Taschen books, glass pears, gold votive holders, antiqued perfume bottles, Maribelle Chocolates, Adler candles, and hip dog collars, leads, beds and sweaters.
