Barnes & Noble Tries to Go Home

Maybe it's just the lamp in this feature shot that throws me, but Barnes & Noble's new Home collection just strikes me as an odd brand extension.

I do give serious kudos to brands that find new and innovative ways to expand and thrive -- especially when the economic outlook is grim. So finding new markets or selling more to existing customers is smart thinking, generally speaking. But tapas sets and wine bar accessories from the bookstore?

Journals and desk accessories are one thing, but can Barnes & Noble really compete with Crate & Barrel for tabletop or Restoration Hardware for lighting?

It's truly a romantic notion to decorate your living room around your favorite book--but I'm afraid BN.com is going to have to add a lot more wine and roses to pull this one off.