Playing On Piano’s Artful Potential

There’s no doubt that the piano is an art object, often forming the centerpiece of a room. To commemorate the 300th anniversary of the instrument’s birth, renowned piano manufacturer Steinway & Sons commissioned furniture designer Dakota Jackson to create a limited-edition grand piano.

Jackson, who plays the piano, made several structural changes in his design, including moving the front and back legs forward, and changing the shape of the straight stick that supports the lid to a sinuous curve.

The piano is priced at $79,700. Only a few are on display at shops around the country.

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A fringe benefit from fashion has hit home. Target’s new line of funky mirrors and lamps derives from the fringed, trimmed and beaded jeans and purses being worn this summer.A 15-inch-square mirror, for $24.99, is among items that draw on fashion’s “hippie chic” look.

“We like all of this beaded stuff mixed with the Moroccan and bohemian influence and retro plastics for back to college,” says Matt Murphy, trend manager for the chain’s home products.