Shoppimg

Linen and Concrete Juxtaposes Hard and Soft Treasures

It's sleek and sophisticated

The Bay Magazine ·

Tucked away down Maple Avenue in Barrington is Linen and Concrete, a hidden gem run by Keri Carlson Marino that opened last December.

Stepping into the shop is a breath of fresh air. Scandinavian Nordic in design, the shop is full of creams, grays, charcoals and blacks – this isn’t your typical gift shop.

After years working in graphic design and bookkeeping, Keri decided to set out and pursue her passion for interior design. What she created was a unique space with goods by artisans both local and abroad.

The name of the shop was inspired by the juxtaposition of the hard concrete and the soft linen – she has plenty of both. “I have linens from France,” Marino says, “Some of my concrete pieces come from Austria.”

Concrete coasters and jewelry contrast the soft tea towels, table runners and cafe aprons – all in a natural gray color. There’s a nice selection of mixed metal jewelry as well, also in earthy tones.

Some notable pieces in the shop are berry bowls crafted by Rhode Island native Michelle Phaneuf, which are essentially a strainer and bowl hybrid that fit a pint of blueberries – just rinse and eat.

Now that the weather is colder, fingerless mittens known as Mittlets by Debella Designs out of Northborough, MA have been popular.

Marino’s relationship with the customers has been so rewarding. “When people come in and are so excited about [the products] it validates you,” she says. “It’s a good feeling to make other people happy.”

Linen and Concrete
464 Maple Avenue, Barrington
401-337-5456
LinenAndConcrete.com

linen and concrete, barrington, keri carlson marino, scandinavian nordic, france, austria, gray, mittlets, debella designs, northborough, rhode island, the bay magazine, the bay, kelly payton