Talk-show host downsizes new furniture line

By Sue Doerfler
The Arizona Republic
When Pulaski Furniture approached popular Latina Univision talk-show host Cristina

Saralegui about working on a second line of smaller-size furniture, she enthusiastically agreed.
Saralegui knew firsthand such a look was needed. Her Casa Cristina collection for Pulaski contained large-scale pieces, including a huge wrought iron and wood-canopy bed. The romantic bed, her favorite of the collection, was too big for her daughter’s small bedroom.
Thus, the 74-piece Urbana collection was born. The collection is designed to appeal to younger professionals living urban lifestyles in lofts or small apartments.
Just like the first line, the pieces have an Old World Mediterranean feel combined with Hispanic flair. They borrow on heritage and roots, incorporating traditional materials such as wood, leather and wrought iron.
In contrast to the first collection, they have simpler lines and are lighter in scale, in keeping with the urban trend in design.
Having a Latino imprint is paramount to Saralegui, who is host and executive producer of “El Show de Cristina” (“The Cristina Show”) on the Univision network. The media star was named by Time magazine as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in the United States.
Saralegui especially enjoys being able to infuse furniture design with Hispanic lifestyles. “We are a culture who embraces life through music, friendships and family gatherings,” she said. “I’m loving this side of my career.” Pulaski Furniture is too.
Based in Pulaski, Va., the company partnered with Saralegui to reach the Hispanic market and capture a piece of its $736 billion in buying power.
Her influence has made a difference. Working with Pulaski on initial designs, she lobbied for a large dining table to accommodate big family get-togethers and Sunday dinners common in Hispanic households. “In every house, there is a version of that,” she said.
The resulting Leg Table, part of the Casa Cristina collection, has been a best-seller for Pulaski, which began in 1955 and offers more than 30 lines of furniture.
Equally popular has been a self-contained kitchen island: It offers preparation space, seating and storage. Many pieces — entertainment centers and portable bars among them — offer alternatives to built-in storage. They capitalize on people’s desire to take beautifully crafted storage units when they move.
Pieces in the Urbana collection include the bed, which is more streamlined than its romantic Casa Cristina counterpart but is still substantial with its flat posts and ironwork detailing; the sofa table, with two dovetailed drawers; and the corner family chest. No need to worry about your picture frames toppling when the piece gets bumped; the chest has attached photo frames on top.
Saralegui yesterday announced plans to lend her name to a new home furnishings line to be sold in Kohl’s stores and at kohls.com.