Everyone's looking for a piece of the good life these days. But with tax rebate checks going towards $4-per-gallon gas, the search this summer may have to be more low-key than, say, the MacBook Air you've been dreaming about for months.
But luckily for Madisonians, the search for La Bella Vita needn't go any further than a less-than-a-gallon schlep to Middleton and the boutique and gallery of the same name. Owner Yvette Kindschi has put together a most eclectic mix of accessories, jewelry, home accents and gifts for local aesthetes, enough to make it a Top-5 pick in Brava magazine for 2007.
In this shopper's opinion, the selection of handbags and belts tend towards ostentation, but some of the home accessories are positively priceless. With fresh flowers going for cheap at the farmers' market, it might be fun to dress them up in a mounted glass wall vase with a decorative dragonfly ($36). Funky bowls, candles, and throw pillows abound, as well as an admirable selection of wall decor.
I loved the standing clock in the shape of a vintage TV ($116) and these curious contraptions called Morphitectures, interactive art made with hardwood bases and changeable cards to make 3-D panel images of cities ($30). But there is plenty more to tickle your fancy.
Kindschi also makes herself available for interior decorating and consulting, so if you like the look of La Bella Vita, here's a chance to make it your own.
