Shop talk

New globe: The Findlay Market and Montgomery Road locations of Globe Furniture Galleries celebrate their new name - Inspired Interiors by Globe - with an open house today at both stores. The new name better describes the longtime Cincinnati business' goal of "selling beautiful rooms, not just furniture," says Peter Levick, president and owner.

During "Jazz Up Your Home" 11 a.m.-1 p.m. today downtown and 2-5 p.m. at the Montgomery Road location, P. Ann Everson-Price will perform, and the first 100 customers to make a purchase will get the CD Hidden Treasures: Cincinnati's Tribute to King Records Legacy, on which she performs. Part of the stores' February proceeds will go to Learning Through Art educational programs.

Top 100: Clawfoot Supply of Covington earned a spot in Home magazine's 100 home tips, products and hidden treasures listing in the February issue, thanks to the acrylic and cast iron clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, faucets and tub-and-shower sets the store carries. Long a favorite for renovators looking for an old-style look with updated technology, the store is at 935 Western Ave. Information: (877) 682-4192.

Wise buys

Wood carpet: Lifeesthetics in Over-the-Rhine has design relief for allergy sufferers usually advised to steer clear of carpeting and rugs. Owner Leah Sweeney Spurrier carries a nifty line of wood rugs by DK Living made from interlocking pieces of the Doi tree from Vietnam. The rugs, available in 5-by-7 or 8-by-10-foot sizes come in blond, charcoal and cappuccino shades of the lustrous but surprisingly non-slippery wood. About $500, depending on size. Placemats: $16.95. At 13th and Clay streets. Information: 723-1901.

By design

Graves carpets: Speaking of rugs, architect and designer Michael Graves, whose retro kitchenware and other home designs are sold at Target, is developing a line of rugs for Glen Eden Wool Carpets and its retailers.

The collection, introduced this week at the Surfaces Market in Las Vegas, includes 12 "transitional" designs in 36 colors and will sell for about $40-50 per square foot. Expect architectural linear forms and organic themes.

Take care

Space heater safety: Space heaters, especially portable kerosene heaters, are the leading cause of fires during winter, according to the National Fire Protection Association. To stay toasty, safely:

Look for a national testing lab's endorsement when buying a heater.

Look for a heater with automatic shut-off if tipped.

Keep your heater at least 3 feet from anything flammable.

Unplug it as well as turn it off after use.

Contact Joy Kraft by phone: 768-8467; fav: 768-8330; e-mail jkraft@enquirer.com.