Working It Like a Dog

By Nancy Cooper; Coconut Grove Voice

What home wouldn't look better without a golden retriever laying around? Rich textures and colors, plush carpets, one-of-a-kind art and overstuffed furniture are nice, but if you really want to feel at home, get yourself a golden retriever. Long time Grove business, Coconut Grove Gallery & Interiors on Bird and 28th is owned and operated by the Kuhl family -- Frank and Sheila, their daughter, Janel, and Bailey, the four-legged and seriously mellow receptionist.

What might be confused as a rug, Bailey welcomes family, friends, customers and everyone human or canine pretty much the same way with just a little tail wagging. No sense wasting a lot of energy, Bailey's planning on a long career. Janel says, "Bailey is our third golden retriever, the first two lived long lives and all of them have been really mellow. Since they overlapped, I think they taught each other the ropes." Coconut Grove has its share of dog lovers. From dog-friendly outdoor cafes and dogs that belly-up to the bar at the Taurus to highly trafficked dog parks, pooches are part of the village charm.

Come visit Bailey and our team of interior designer in Miami at 2884 Bird Avenue in the Grove.