New Licensees Willow Green and Padma's Plantation are joining a stable of other Dick Idol licensees for the line's latest collection, Urban Craftsmen, one that offers a contrast to the existing lodge-style lines.

But according to Idol, Montana outdoorsman, artist, and outdoor lifestyle personality, there is no contradiction between urban dwellers and the outdoor lifestyle. He contends the hectic lifestyles of today's urban consumers make them aspire more than ever to live the outdoor lifestyle of simpler times or at least bring this casual styling and comfort into their urban retreats.

"Our customers continue to tell us that they want refined rustic furnishings at more scaled down sizes appropriate for smaller homes and urban lofts," he said. "They also want eclectic styling that offers rustic elements with a modern twist."

The Urban Craftsmen line will be launched at the High Point market in April with lead licensee Klaussner Furniture, Willow Green and Padma's Plantation, as well as several other licensed home accent vendors.

The look balances modern with antiquity and marries old and organic with contemporary. The furniture design is more simple and primitive and is more about the wood and finish than complicated design.

Accent pieces include simple wood tables, tables with slate and antiqued copper inset tops, and more contemporary tables incorporating baskets for a rustic flair

Willow Green will show a complete line of wall art and wall decor at market, while Padma's Plantation interprets indoor accent furniture and accessories in a more contemporary, transitional design. Other key licensees include Pacific Coast Lighting, Capel, Natural Creations, Southern Textiles, Bacova Guild, The Northwest Company and Marion Mantel & Hearth.

"Urban Craftsmen was designed to recognize that you simply don't have to live in a country lodge to love the outdoors and that outdoor looks don't have to be 'in your face,' entirely primitive, or huge in scale," Idol said. "As an artist, I personally prefer to mix styles, textures, and colors to create eclectic, more interesting room environments that are still comfortable and functional for everyday living."

New products from Padma's Plantation, above, and Natural Creations, right, demonstrate the slightly urban feel of the new Dick Idol lines.