Reading Etc. makes its home at Health Communications, Inc., the world- renown publishing company recognized for the widely acclaimed Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Prior to the boom of Chicken Soup in the early 1990’s, HCI remained a relatively small publisher with concentration in recovery, self-help, and motivational works. As HCI grew steadily and formed a solid base around the now 80 plus legendary titles of Chicken Soup for the Soul, proprietor, Peter Vegso began exploring new horizons. Vegso envisioned an atmosphere that would embrace creativity and pay homage to his ever-growing book collection, thus creating a natural extension and link to the publishing company. An employee function room at the corporate headquarters, which was used for luncheons and gatherings would serve this purpose.

From Vegso’s brainchild, a unique and artistic retail experience would be born, which would celebrate knowledge, creativity, and imagination. While visiting the luxurious Egyptian Tea Room of Harrod’s Department store in London, Mr. Vegso was inspired and enthralled by the architectural elements and Egyptian décor. He recognized the correlation between this ancient civilization and the literary world, thus dedicating Reading Etc. to the Egyptians by designing the showroom in their honor.

The Egyptian culture was embedded with many of the same values Mr. Vegso held in high regard. He admired their passionate life quest for knowledge and shared their values on education. Peter’s belief that an education is an imperative component and necessity for advancement was also portrayed through the ancient scribes who dedicated their lives to rigorous educational training and enhancing wisdom through symbolic observations of life. This mission to create a tranquil and awe-inspiring atmosphere was generated from Vegso’s appreciation for the exquisite details, symbolism, and ancient traditions of the Egyptian culture.

In his quest for an ideal ambiance, Vegso developed The Creative Design Group to accurately reproduce Egyptian art based on ancient myths and hand-sculpted hieroglyphic tablets found in temples many centuries ago. For the artistic and symbolic interpretation of Egyptian art, he relied on the knowledge of a well-studied Egyptologist, Melissa Applegate, to select elements that reflect the Egyptian myth of cosmology-the creation of the Universe. Melissa worked closely with our artisans to convey the intricate details required to portray a true sentiment of the ancient celebrations and rituals. Through Applegate’s research, and The Creative Design Group’s time-honored craftsmanship, this ancient civilization came to life through hand-made friezes depicting the life rituals of dancing, singing, festivities, and spiritual celebrations.

Nothing from its industrial approach prepares one for what lies behind the unheralded doors of the store. In addition to the magnificent tablets replicating Egyptian life and crown molding that adorns the perimeter, also created for this wondrous environment were magnificent mosaics inspired from the work found in ancient pyramids. Life size sculptures of scribes and sphinxes beautify the entry and sit perched high above amongst the décor. A classic Egyptian zodiac rendering was fabricated and installed as a major focal point as well. Authentic Jerusalem limestone, with its many shades and rich textures, was tumbled in Italy and brought to blanket the showroom floors and courtyard. What was once a very modest employee lounge was now a masterpiece. It became a place where one could step back in time, admire the marvels of an ancient civilization, shop amongst exquisite gifts, and experience a sense of serenity.

Reading Etc. offers an oasis of gifts selected from around the globe. From classic elegance to contemporary sophistication, you will experience a world like no other. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and discover a world of unparalleled beauty celebrating life and the arts. From the sparkling stones of Sorrelli jewelry, and the irresistible designs of Mary Frances handbags, to exquisite silk embroidered lamps and classic furnishings, you will encounter a vast array of sensational gifts. Reading Etc. houses the most unique and alluring treasures sure to inspire your soul, warm your heart and rekindle the spirit.

The Creative Design Group, a division of Reading Etc, concentrates on the fabrication and installation of architectural themed environments for residential and commercial applications world-wide. From hotels and casinos, to restaurants, retail stores and private dwellings, the Creative Design Group transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary places. Our exclusive collection of hand-painted moldings and wall décor can bring any interior to life. The possibilities are endless… we can implement the conceptual ideas brought before us to develop and construct any project imaginable. In addition to our exquisite interiors, we have broadened our horizons with our latest endeavor, The Ocean Treasures Collection. This entity showcases designer cylindrical salt water desktop aquariums. Each aquarium is constructed with time – honored craftsmanship, numbered and signed by the artist. Custom aquariums are also available and provide you with a magnificent living showpiece. We invite you to let our knowledge, your imagination and our creativity bring your extraordinary ideas to life.

For more detailed information and to view photographs of our completed work, please visit our websites for The Creative Design Group and The Ocean Treasures Collection.

www.creativedesign-group.com

www.oceantreasurescollection.com