Basis Design

Mudrooms

Wes — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 20:33:21 +0000

I find that in this economic climate, people are more into effectively using the space they already have then upgrading. One of the best ways to make use of space in your house is with a mudroom. They’re great. They’re an awesome organizational space, as well as perfect for anyone with kids/dogs/messy spouses. The best part is that even if you don’t have an actual mud ROOM, you can make a mudspace with some cabinetry and hooks. This can be an easy DIY project, or you can buy everything you need already together. I’m a huge fan of Pottery Barn / PBK / PBT etc. so I know that they have some fantastic options that are unfortunately not always in the budget. But, there are some great do it yourself options available in the inter-webs so don’t let the cost of pre-made items get you down!

Here are some inspirational photos –

This is your classic mudroom area. Very simple, elegant, and includes a built-in style.

Mudroom lockers are great for families with active, busy kids.

Here’s a look at an option that’s not built in. It still serves the same purpose, but is less expensive and invasive.

Mudrooms are also a great place for storing all of your pet supplies – bowls, leashes, food, etc. And if you have the space, wouldn’t it be awesome to have this little shower area for when you come in from a walk?

It’s a hammock, it’s a beanbag… no, it’s a beanock!

Wes — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 20:30:21 +0000

I’ve recently discovered these fabulous things called beanocks. They’re part hammock, part beanbag, and 100% awesome. These beanocks combine the comfort of a beanbag and the suspension/swinging capability of a hammock to create a perfect lounging space. Cue the ‘ooohs’ and ‘aahhhs’. Beanocks can be purchased at lovesac, or the hammock company. They’re a little pricey, but I imagine extremely worth it!

PBS has a hit!

Wes — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 20:28:28 +0000

PBS has created another award winning series to no one’s surprise. The real surprise here is that it is getting great ratings. Downton Abbey, of PBS’ Masterpiece Classic, ended its second season with a captivated audience and the highest ratings a PBS show has received in 3 years.

The set and costumes from Downton Abbey are exquisitely created and truly draw you into another time and place. Take a look at some great shots from this series.

Red Carpet 2012

Wes — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 21:23:28 +0000

Well, it’s that time of year again. The award shows are over and now we get to analyze the outfits, shoes, jewelry (and this year stances) of our favorite stars. Here are my best and worst dressed of 2012′s award season.

Jessica Chastain looked stunning in this Alexander McQueen creation at the Academy Awards.

This Versace gown donned by Angelina Jolie turned out to be a major flop. I don’t really care for velvet, but the real problem was the totally weird pose Jolie continuously used throughout the evening. Her stance was so unusual that by the end of the night Angelina’s right leg had its own Twitter account!

Sofia Vergara showed off her amazing curves in a midnight blue ensemble by Vera Wang at this year’s Golden Globes.

Worst dressed of the entire award season goes to Kristen Wiig. This ridiculous choker she paired with a cream Balenciaga gown was simply horrible. Luckily, she completely turned it around for the Academy. She looked beautiful Sunday night in J. Mendel gown.

The Swivel Upgrade

Wes — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 20:27:29 +0000

The coolest chairs ever, in my opinion, have always been swivel chairs. They’re fun for everyone and always make you feel like a kid again swooshing around an office or fellowship hall. The MultiGeneration Hybrid Chair by Knoll is not your average swivel chair. It’s beautifully crafted and made to fit almost anyone’s needs. Offered in a variety of colors and a variety of styles this chair will fit in wonderfully in your particular office space.

Priced at a quite reasonably at under $300.00 this chair is also budget friendly! It’s beautiful lines can be seen better in this side shot –

P.S. Stacking versions are also available for conference rooms, etc!

Natural Design

Wes — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 14:38:57 +0000

When brainstorming about blogging and what cool designs I could discuss next, I had an Oprah-esque “AHA!” moment. We don’t give The Earth/Mother Nature/Spiritual Higher Power enough credit for the natural designs found in the landscape of this planet we call home. So here’s a look at some of the absolutely fantastic designs that were naturally created.

Painted Cliffs, Tasmania

Garden of the Gods, Colorado, USA

Angel Falls, Venezuela

Taughannock Falls, Finger Lakes Region, New York

Eye Catchers

Wes — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:36:02 +0000

Packaging. It can make or break your product. I find that packaging is important in many products, but particularly wine bottles. Most people would not consider themselves wine connoisseurs, just people who want a nice adult beverage to accompany their meal. For these people, packaging can be everything. Packaging means your product stays off the shelves. Here are some of my favorites –

This bottle was designed by Emily Hale as a tribute to the late Harvey Milk. The half full milk bottle is a representation of Harvey’s persistent positive outlook and attitude towards life. The wine is a Cabernet Sauvignon.

This bottle was designed by Rethink and is part of a series of Cabernet labels created by them. The other labels feature all different kinds of tables including ping pong, poker, pool, and more.

Matsu wine designed by Maruba.

Sweet Ride

Wes — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:31:28 +0000

The Oregon Manifest held a contest in September of 2011 to find the “Ultimate Utility Bike for Modern Living”. They sought to find a bike that would meet the needs of Americans who want to live a healthier and more sustainable life.

The judges panel was made up of leaders in the bicycle industry including the President of the United Bicycle Institute and the VP of Innovation Design and Special Products at Nike. Tony Pereira of Pereira Cycles came up with a truly innovative, exciting, and winning design, and got a $3,000.00 prize for his effort!

Although this bike is impressive, I think the true winner has to be the ‘People’s Choice’ winners, IDEO and Rock Lobster Cycles. In a contest where you’re designing a product to be used by people, this award is a big deal. I have to agree with the voters, this bike is pretty cool.

Let me introduce you to Faraday…

ACTM: 12 Desperate Straight Lines, by Telekinesis

Wes — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:38:41 +0000

The latest in our continuing series is a new release from a band that’s not getting enough recognition: Telekinesis. They play kind of a harder-rocking and less whimsical Shins type music. I love the mix of retro and modern in this cover.

New Years Eve Style

Wes — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:38:33 +0000

It’s that time of year again where it feels like you need a New Years Eve Party Dress. Here are a few styles to help inspire your holiday wardrobe!

Platinum Paiette by Scala

Golden Samantha Sequin Dress by French Connection

Tried and Blue Dress by ModCloth

60′s Green Party Dress from La Vintage