Childhood Memories at Alessi

I finally visited the newly opened Alessi store at Preston Royal. With more than 2,000 products, there’s lots to love in the largest flagship store this side of Europe. Still, since it’s new to Dallas, I figured it was new to me. But then I saw this tea kettle (on the left). It reminds me of being in the kitchen with my mom. As a child, I thought it looked like a chicken. (anyone see it?) Designed by Richard Sapper, it whistles in the keys of E and B–I never knew that–but I remember its unique alert. The $155 price tag surprised me. So fancy, mom. But she’s had it for years and years, so it must be well-made. If you want the latest Alessi teapot (right), this Michael Graves-designed number is pretty cute, too. (Business Week teapot story here)