Photography by Werner Segarra

Owners: Ryan O’Meara, Sue O’Meara and Karen Eslinger (pictured from left)

Opened: March 2007

Location: 4200 N. Marshall Way, Suite 6, Scottsdale

Hours:  Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.; and by appointment

Phone: (480) 946-1006

Website: palavelahome.com

History: After fulfilling a lifelong dream of skating in the Olympics, Ryan O’Meara decided to follow another interest—home decor. In March 2007, he joined forces with his mother, Sue O’Meara, and aunt, Karen Eslinger, to form Palavela Home. The business merges Ryan’s eye for design with Sue and Karen’s established upholstery and drapery fabrication business. The name “Palavela” is borrowed from the sporting venue in Italy, where Ryan skated during the 2006 Winter Games.

Tiger-striped chenille fabric and gold embellishments add a stylish twist to this director’s chair.

Philosophy: Sue and Ryan explain that the store offers an opportunity to show clients how to mix different styles and time periods. “Don’t think you have to throw everything out because your style is changing,” Sue says. 

What’s in store: The Old Town Scottsdale showroom features a collection of modern, vintage and antique pieces, many of
which are updated with custom upholstery. In addition, several of the walls are upholstered with faux leather; they act as backdrops for an eclectic array of furnishings. The ever-changing inventory showcases such items as a painted dresser, an antique European buffet, a sunburst mirror, and colorful Contemporary lamps by Robert Abbey. The store carries items from more than 40 manufacturers, including Pulaski Furniture, Tomlinson/Erwin-Lambeth, Global Views, Jonathan Adler, and Arteriors. A line of handmade throws, table linens and decorative pillows also is offered, and design services, couture window treatments and upholstery fabrication are available.

The bases of these whimsical candlesticks feature brass monkeys standing on the backs of ceramic turtles.

Don’t miss: Be sure to peek around the backs of select furniture pieces, as the owners give some older items modern-day touches. For example, a silver belt and purple velvet were used to create a custom back detail on an antique chair.