I love to entertain, and my living room is more of an old-style library than it is a living room.  You know, green baize, deep, dark velvets and dark woods, with shelves and shelves of books and brass fixtures.  So, finding furniture that fits in is a real challenge.

I found this replica of an Italian Globe that was actually a bar not too long ago and have found I really love it! 

I did have to do some minor assembly to get it put together when I got it, but it was so cool when I finally installed it in my library.  Closed, it looks like a Renaissance-era globe and is actually a rather nice conversation piece when people stop by in the mornings.  But in the evenings when my friends come over nothing brings a grin faster than when I open the top to reveal a really nice bar set. 

I don’t actually use the bottom shelf to store additional liquor, although one could and it would still be quite elegant.  I like the fact that it just looks like a globe until I want it to look different. You know, that little hidden surprise element that can make entertaining fun.  I do get gasps and giggles from new friends who have never seen me open the top to reveal a bottle of wine or good scotch when offering a drink.

I also like that it’s on castors, as I often will move the globe around the room depending on where I’m sitting that day when friends come over.  It’s nice to have that option without having to worry about breaking what’s inside when I want to move the little bar.

Opening from its hinged meridian reveals replica antique frescoes reminiscent of the domed ceiling contraspecto ("view from the heavens").  The stand is about 22 inches high, so it’s not too tall, and fits in nicely next to a sofa or fainting couch. And who doesn’t need a bottle of excellent brandy easily accessible from one’s fainting couch, right?

Posted by Noel.