November 2, 2007

Twice As Nice

Michelle Willey and Vessels Gallery

Some things just work better as a pair:
1. pen and paper.
2. vanilla and chocolate.
3. diamonds and pearls.

Here’s another dynamic duo: Michelle Willey and Vessels Gallery. These two separate — but complementary — businesses have relocated together to a former photographer’s loft.

Michelle Willey exudes a high, stylish standard for housewares, including sleek, hard-wearing Pillivuyt dishes from France; titanium crystal shatter-resistant glassware; and sumptuously luxe Matouk bedding and linens. There’s also local flavor via South End designers, including handmade wooden wine stoppers made by a retired Boston surgeon.

A step farther and you’ll find Vessels Gallery, Bobbie Tunnard’s highly curated selection of sculptural objects by artists from Germany to New York. We were drawn in by her pale minimalist pieces and inlaid, etched bowls.

It’s all nearly impossible to resist.

You might call it double trouble.

Michelle Willey and Vessels Gallery, 8 Union Park Street, South End (617-424-6700 or michellewilley.com and vesselsgallery.com).