Sheila Meets The Neighbors

"Here are the adjacent property owners now," the realtor said with a wave, "Hello Jones Family!"

Sheila held back a gasp at the sight of the naked family. Never in her life did she feel so adamantly against "keeping up with the Joneses".  

OMG, It's Mike & Sheila

"I think this is the ONE", Mike said to Sheila, "Don't you think this is the ONE? And the kids love it! 

"The kids certainly do love it!", The realtor smiled.

 Sheila turned her back and felt an overwhelming wave of deja vu.

Neville Rocks The Boathouse

In late October, I received an email from William Neville with the above image attached and the subject line Mini Modern Boathouse. There was only one word in the body of the communication = "Enjoy."

I know you're wondering if this William Neville is connected in any way with the Neville House produced by CB2. Based on similarities in the design and materials used, I think it is highly likely. Is this the next mini house that will debut at CB2? Shrug. I sent a few questions to the sender but it's very quiet on the other end. So for now we will simply enjoy.

Image: William Neville

Neville House

Imagine my surprise to find this modern miniature structure at my local CB2 store! This sturdy model is called Neville House (although the box and tag say "Neville's House") and is made of engineered wood with pine veneer and walnut trim. It features floor to ceiling windows and doorways, a shed roof, porch and removable retro fireplace. It reminds me of those 21st Century Beach House Huts that I blogged about years ago.

I am uncertain of the scale. It is smaller than 3/4 scale or 1:16. Maybe 1:24? Shrug. It measures 10.25"Wx9"Dx7.75"H. The doorways and windows are roughly 4 inches in height which makes it a bit tricky to place miniature furniture and accessories but it can be done. If you have smaller hands, you'll have no issues but I keep reaching for a pencil to give items a final tap into place. Also, the flooring inside the house looks like carpeting but is rough like sandpaper to the touch. If you decide not to use alternate flooring, you have to be gentle when placing items so that you don't scratch the more delicate miniatures.

I actually remember this little house from CB2's Christmas catalog. It was featured on the cover as a prop. 

I had made a note to contact the company and ask them who made the model but I never did get around to it. I wonder if other people had inquired about the house and that is what got the ball rolling. Either way, I'm happy to see it now for sale.

All in all, it's a cool little structure for $60 that is fun to play with and/or admire on a shelf. I hope they make a series of these...

UPDATE: 7/1/11
I got the following reply from Crate and Barrel:
The house was designed by one of our associates at our Corporate Office. We do not see any plans for other models, but we will definitely share your feedback about this.
First, big kudos to the anonymous associate who isn't given public credit. You rock, whoever you are! And second, to everyone, please write CB2 and let them know you want to see more of these lovely modern architectural models! 

Additional image: CB2