If It's Hip, It's Here

The House At Cannes: Modern Luxury In The South Of France

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

The House at Cannes opened its doors in October 2008, the newest addition to the award winning The House at.. series of exclusive boutique retreats. The height of elegance and state-of-the-art design finds a natural home overlooking the Bay of Cannes in one of the world's most glamorous destinations.

In the heart of the city's beautiful Historic Conservation District, the 200 year old villa has been restored and renovated to the highest specifications, with bespoke touches inside and out. The villa, with its creamy facade and imposing entrance, sits regally in mature gardens of palm trees and scented blooms, with an impressive vista to the sea and is a mere ten minute walk to the famous Croisette and the Palais des Festivals.

The House at Cannes is the premier choice as a film location, venue for fashion shows, gala parties, conferences and product launches. As a holiday retreat, it offers the best in modern luxury, with every need catered to individual taste for an unforgettable holiday on the Cote D'Azur.

The House sleeps up to ten people in its five en-suite bedrooms, each with bespoke cabinets designed and built by Jason Maclean of Maclean Interiors and Yusef Haniffa.

Design is a key element of the House and we are delighted to be working again with British Fashion House Eley Kishimoto, who have developed one off screen prints and wallpapers exclusively for The House at Cannes.

Select areas of each wardrobe are lined with specially designed Eley Kishimoto prints, giving each room its own signature style.

All beds are dressed with fresh linen from The White Company, one of Britain's finest purveyors of luxury linen and accessories. With Sisal and wool flooring by Alternative Flooring, a leading supplier and specialist in design-led natural floors.

The House's living areas are the essence of comfort and style with a 10 seat tuft time sofa and a fully equipped kitchen and dining areas.

The bathrooms are the epitome of functional elegance, the best of British and Irish designers producing bathroom products under the moniker UsTogether have fitted the master bathroom with their ultra modern bathroom concept, the Ebb bathroom. The strikingly visual, flowing, structure of Ebb is akin to a floating ribbon linking each bathroom fixture.

The House at Cannes is proud to be the first property in the world to provide guests with this special bathing experience. (See a post on UsTogether and all their bathroom collections here)

All bathrooms are fully stocked with plush towels from The White Company as well as complimentary Kiehl's cleansing products and fitted with Vola and Boffi fixtures, including their innovative "pipe shower". This is a House for the discerning guest, with an appreciation for design and exceptional function.

The House at Cannes boasts a fifteen person screening room with a large flat screen TV and a working bar, as perfect for a private industry screening as a cozy night in.

For outdoor relaxation, barbecue and entertaining, the tiered gardens provide a refreshing outdoor setting surrounded by tropical palms and grasses and enclosed in natural bamboo fencing.

The kidney shaped pool and jacuzzi are intricately lined with exclusive flash print mosaic tiles from Eley Kishimoto in black and white and is fitted with an alarm for safety of younger guests.

Cannes-Mandelieu and Nice international airports are within 30 minutes from The House at Cannes. Alternatively, helicopters can be set at the rear of the Palais des Festivals.

Design and build:
Jason Maclean (Maclean Bespoke Interiors) / Yusef Haniffa (Hanridge Services)

all images and information courtesy of The House At...

Other individuals and companies who made The House at Cannes possible:
Eley Kishimoto
Chris Tubbs Photography
The White Company
Kiehl's
KitchenAid
Serge Mouille
Steidl
The Alternative Flooring Company
Robert Welch Designs
UsTogether

For additional information or booking enquiries, please contact Kle Savidge:
kle@thehouseat.com

Choo For You: Jimmy Choo Comes To H&M

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Exclusive no more, haute brand Jimmy Choo, best known for sexy high heels, is bringing his glamourous style to the masses with a collection of shoes, bags, belts, jewelry, outerwear and clothes for both women AND men to over 200 H&M stores worldwide beginning November 14th.

It is the first time that H&M is collaborating with an accessories brand, and to celebrate Jimmy Choo will extend its design vision for this collection to women’s clothing to complement the accessories.

“We are privileged to be among the fashion greats who have been affiliated with H&M so far, and to be designing a collection appealing to fashion savvy, street smart women, and to be including some great pieces for men, too. Jimmy Choo will bring to H&M a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection - the perfect party pieces to buy now and then wear out that night!” Tamara Mellon, Founder and President, Jimmy Choo.

above : Margareta van den Bosch (left), creative advisor, H&M and Tamara Mellon (right), Founder and President, Jimmy Choo.

“We adore Jimmy Choo’s shoes and bags. They are glamorous and sexy, and they add instant style to the simplest of outfits. I like the way we have worked with clothes to accessorize the shoes and bags rather than the other way around. This collaboration is particularly exciting because it’s our first shoe designer collection. It’s a joy to be able to offer top end designer shoes and bags of excellent quality to our customers.” Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor, H&M.

Since its launch in 1996, Jimmy Choo has been such a phenomenal success that the brand name has become part of popular culture - say the words “Jimmy Choo”, and you know you mean shoes. In Hollywood, Jimmy Choo shoes have become a red-carpet essential, and have been worn at the Oscars by winners such as Cate Blanchett, Halle Berry and Hilary Swank among many other actresses. The famous Jimmy Choo shoes will be at the heart of the exclusive collection for H&M, but there’s more. Jimmy Choo has also become well known for its bags, and for H&M there will be a whole range of accessories to complete the look.

Not only will Jimmy Choo be providing the perfect shoes for the party season at H&M, it will also be offering the clothes and accessories to match, as well as dressing men from head to toe. The collection features details such as crystals, studs and animal prints that make Jimmy Choo such a pioneer in the world of accessories.

"The Jimmy Choo collection for H&M is full of fun, one-off items with an accessible and glamorous identity made with stylish materials, emphasized with color and embellishment. I wanted to create pieces that would reach a cool and young customer with a fashionable and independent sense of spirit in this one-off collaboration." Tamara Mellon, Founder and President, Jimmy Choo.

"This Autumn Jimmy Choo brings vitality and sexy glamour to H&M. I love the really high strappy sandals with lots of decoration and attitude, matched with clean-cut, 80s-inspired clothes. Designer Tamara Mellon always shows her amazing shoes with equally amazing clothes, and we wanted to offer our customers a complete collection - including men's shoes and clothes too. I think this collection suits anyone with a flair for fashion and high heels." Margareta van den Bosch, creative advisor at H&M.

It’s a shoe-lovers dream. For H&M, Jimmy Choo will be providing every style you need to see you through the season. From high heels and thigh-high boots to gladiator flats and ballet pumps, all the Jimmy Choo classic designs are there, and Jimmy Choo pulls out all the stops to provide decoration for the feet.

There are crystal embellishments, studs, animal prints such as zebra, and accent colours of red and blue to give the shoes that real power. While glamour is the key to the skyscraper high heels, Jimmy Choo is also bringing a cropped Cuban-heel boot to H&M as well as the essential ballet pump to make it a truly complete collection.

The shoes are complemented by accessories, evening clutches and larger day bags, which are studded or fringed for the jet-set lifestyle. Belts are studded and wide, or long enough for a triple wrap. Choker necklaces, bracelets, cuffs and earrings echo the shoes perfectly.

The clothes collection has a gloss goth feel with one-shoulder dresses, jumpsuits, leather leggings and dresses covered in crystals, emphasised by a fake-fur gilet, sequined cardigans and embroidered tops.

For men, there will be a selection of ankle boots and bags, as well as a wardrobe of wool blazers, leather biker jackets, silk and cashmere mix sweaters, shirts and trousers:

To celebrate the launch, on November 3rd, Hollywood rolled out the red carpet to celebrate this collaboration, as Paris & Nicky Hilton, Hayden Panettiere, Kate Walsh, Olivia Wilde, Sheryl Crow, Cat Deeley, Angela Lindvall, Maggie Grace, Mini Andén, among others came out to celebrate the collaboration and the launch of the Jimmy Choo for H&M collection.

above: Paris & Nicky Hilton, Hayden Panettiere

The star-studded party was held at a private residence high above the famous Sunset Strip in the Hollywood Hills and featured a Grammy-worthy performance by M.I.A., who dazzled the guests in front of the L.A. skyline:

above: M.I.A. performed at the November 3rd Gala

above: Models donned the collection against the Los Angeles skyline

Look for the Jimmy Choo Collection at select H&M stores starting November 14th.
all information and images courtesy of H&M

201 Beautiful Modern Menorahs For 2009. (The Megile Modern Menorah List.)

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Beginning in 2006, I began making annual lists of beautifully designed and unusual modern menorahs for those who wanted to participate in the tradition of the nightly lighting of the candles in observance of Hanukkah (or Chanukah) without the old style Hanukkia or Menorah.

At that time is was hard to find any accessible and affordable Judaica that was contemporary, let alone modern, but that has since changed. Artists, designers and popular stores like Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn and Target all carry menorahs now, most sold online, but that doesn't mean they are all attractive or well-designed. So, I've separated the wheat from the chaff for you.

above: Online stores like Modern Tribe make a point of carrying the latest contemporary Judaica, like the Nail Mountain menorah by Seth Nagelberg shown above

This list doesn't include cheesy novelty menorahs made in the shape of shoes, trains, school buses, dogs, dancing rabbis or cats. Okay, admittedly I did include the Motherboard Menorah, the giant Matchstick Menorah and the Galvanized Pipe Menorah, which may border on novelty to some, but have a Pop art and Dada-like style.

above: The motherboard menorah, pipe menorah and matchstick menorah made the list because of their Pop art and Dada qualities

The list does include modern and functional menorahs that range from high end menorahs by well-known luxury brands like Tiffany, Christofle, Steuben, Waterford, Spode, Lenox and Nambé to artisan menorahs by some of Israel's finest artists, metalsmiths and jewelers.

above: Nambé Illume Menorah, new for 2009

above: an unusual menorah from Reddish Design Studio suspends found candleholders in a white frame.

The list also includes ultra modern versions from such hip designers as Jonathan Adler and Karim Rashid and even menorahs by world renowned modern artists like Dali, Agam and Britto.

above: the Levels menorah by Yaacov Agam is layered 24kt gold over bronze and was designed in 1966

Other respected brands with their own line of items like David Mellor, Michael Aram, Simon Pearce, Umbra and Jay Strongwater also have menorahs on this list.

above: Corin Mellor's Stainless Steel Menorah for David Mellon Design is limited to 6 editions

Blown glass, borosilicate glass, hand-forged iron, gold, gold-plated, sterling silver, silver plate, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, pewter, exotic woods, stone, cement, lucite, acrylic, resin and even Swarovski studded menorahs can be found on the list.

above: the most blingy on the list is a menorah encrusted in Swarovski crystals

There's a huge range of prices, from $14.00 to over $100,000.00, so you can see that price was not a criteria for the list. Some are limited editions, some are one of a kind and some may already be sold out.

All you have to do is click on the menorah below that interests you and you'll be taken to thisnext.com where you can find more details and a link to the store or dealer to purchase it.

The 201 Modern Menorahs:

You may have noticed that the menorahs by MacKenzie-Child's are not included in my list, but if you are a fan of those, you can find those here.

Between now and the first night of Hanukkah, I will be adding more modern menorahs I find to my list so be sure to continue to check it out here.

The first night to light the candles this year, 2009, begins December 11th. So, if you don't have a menorah you like by now, you'd better start shopping. And if you can't find a menorah you like in this exhaustive list, then you're meshugge.

Refract House Wins Architecture Honors In Solar Decathalon

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

The Refract House, a green living home built entirely by students, placed first in Architecture, successfully proving their message that Green Living isn't a compromise in the US Department of Energy's 2009 Solar Decathlon.

above: The public tours the international U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon, featuring energy-efficient, solar-powered houses built by 20 university teams from North American and Europe, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2009.(Credit: Stefano Paltera/U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon)

Although Team Germany won first-place overall, and Team Illinois took second, Team California's REFRACT HOUSE also placed first in Communications, second in Engineering, and third in Market Viability. That's not all... they placed in four out of five subjective judgments, and in the fifth one, Lighting, they placed sixth out of the 20 teams.

You can view high res photos of all the homes and the event here.

The Refract House was designed, built, and managed completely by undergraduate students. Team California consists of students from the California College of the Arts (CCA) and Santa Clara University (SCU). Their Refract House featuring Thermablok’s new "aerogel" insulating material placed third overall among 20 universities from around the world all vying to design, construct and operate the most aesthetic, energy-efficient, and self-sustaining solar-powered house.

A jury of professional architects praised the Refract House, calling it "beautiful in every respect," and applauding Team California’s student architects and designers for its "excellent project documentation, crystal-clear concept, and successful translation of regional architecture."

Take a look.

Renderings and plans:

The models (in which you can see how it changed).
final model:

earlier model:

The final constructed home in Washington D.C. for the event:

Now, tons of images of the home on its initial build site (prior to being moved to Washington DC for the event).

Exterior:

general interior shots:

Kitchen:

The living room:

bedroom:

bathroom:

all images courtesy of the Refract House, their blog and flickr group.

To learn more and about all the amazing implementation, go here.
You can view many photos from their flickr group here.

That Funky Green Modern Air Purifier Is Finally Available To Purchase

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:21:00 +0000

above: Once called the Bel-Air, The Andrea has now been mass produced

Originally named the Bel-Air, the modern looking purifier was an experiment between the French designer Matthieu Lehanneur and David Edwards and was initiated by Le Laboratoire in October 2006.

The final design optimized the filtration capacity of leaves, roots, soil and plant water to achieve a first Laboratoire artscience innovation. It was produced in five unique, original prototypes signed by the Artist, and first exhibited at Le Laboratoire in 2007.

In 2008, the Bel-Air was exposed at MoMA in New York and won a prestigious Innovation of the Year Award from Popular Science magazine and was awarded Best innovation of the year by Popular Science in 2008.

You may recall seeing it on some blogs, in some magazines or quite possibly read about one of the many awards this inventive air purifier has received. But it has since been rechristened the Andrea and can now be purchased online in europe and the US.

ANDREA is the first award-winning designed air filter capable of absorbing toxic gases, such as formaldehyde, from home and office environments through the natural absorptive and metabolic properties of living plants.

As described in Living Filters in Urban Design, to appear in Ecological Urbanism (edited by Mohsen Mostafavi, 2009), ANDREA elevates the science of pure air into an art form by bringing fresh air and stylish design into the home and office.

* Transforms any household plant into an effective air cleaner for your home or office
* Cleans air locally and rapidly, therefore can be turned on and off throughout the day
* Uses any household plant (sold separately)
* Absorbs and metabolizes noxious chemicals
* Biochemically transforms waste
* Ozone-free operation
* Low power consumption
* No replaceable filters
* Complements any décor (okay, that I cannot agree with... perhaps any modern decor)

Any kind of household plant can be used as the filtration agent, offering freedom to select the foliage that best suits the motif of any part of your home. Simply put, it’s where form and function come together beautifully.

ANDREA is perfect for any room in the house. It is especially effective in high-use areas where air can stagnate, and harmful gases gather, such as bedrooms, home offices, kitchens & dining, family and living rooms.

Ted Noten's Gives Us The Willies With His Limited Edition Bone China Dildo

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

above: Noten's bone china dildo with 24k gold plated valve costs approx $3,800.00

I have blogged about artist/designer/jeweler Ted Noten's unusual jewelry in the past, specifically his show, Haunted by 36 Women, at Galerie Rob Koudijs last year.

Amongst those who may not know his name, you may be familiar with his oft blogged about lucite purse sculptures (shown below) in which guns and other weapons are embedded.

Today I'm sharing with you the latest addition to his collection of 26 cast ceramic and china 'Willies' or Dildos, Pump it up! A bone china piece that looks like an inflatable penis, complete with gold-plated blow-up valve.

Pump it UP! is a limited edition, bone China dildo by artist and designer Ted Noten. With a 24 carat gold-plated valve, it represents either a highly intriguing and humorous object or an altogether more refined erotic accessory, and promises to be one of Noten's most collectible pieces yet.

Pump it up! images and info courtesy of 20ltd.

Created exclusively for 20ltd, it is limited to only 20 editions, costs $3,767.34 USD and can be purchased here

His "Messin Around With Willie" series includes these pieces as well:

The Bunny Guy dildo above is available for purchase here.

About Ted Noten:
(from 20ltd)
Dutch conceptual jeweller Ted Noten is one of the most exciting and unusual designers working today. Trained at the Rietveld Academy, Amsterdam, he became widely known for jewellery and handbags that featured variously provocative objects such as a whiff of cocaine, cherished rings, a little dead mouse wearing a tiny pearl necklace and some genuine pistols that were sealed inside blocks of acrylate. His work is never far from controversy. Sawing up a number of Mercedes cars into brooches, for instance, didn’t go down well with Mercedes. Nor did his work of art ‘The Pistol Saints’, that was exhibited at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam. It was destroyed by order of the police, because it was alleged to be an illegal weapon.

During his time as artist-in-residence at the European Ceramic Work Centre in 2007, Ted investigated many new ceramic glazing techniques. Loath to incorporate this research into anything as mundane as a teapot or coffee cup and inspired by a trip to Japan, he resolved to employ it in a more memorable work of art, namely a typically-Noten series of dildos entitled Messin’ around with Willie.

Ted Noten

Louis Vuitton Supports the Red Cross & Auctions 6 Special Order Artist Editions

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Louis Vuitton Celebrates 150 Years of Excellence in Savoir-Faire With a Special Tribute to the Red Cross

First off, throughout the month of November, Louis Vuitton, North America will be donating a percentage of sales on their US website of four iconic pieces; the Keepall, Speedy, Noe and Alma to the American Red Cross in honor of the 150th anniversary.

The Keepall was originally created as a back-up bag included in the Louis Vuitton trunk and quickly became the ultimate weekend tote. The Speedy was created in 1930 but became famous when it was redesigned specifically for Audrey Hepburn in the 1960s. The Noe was invented by Gaston Louis Vuitton to perfectly hold five champagne bottles. The Alma was originally inspired by the Art Deco movement and has become a recognizable symbol of Louis Vuitton.
Shop for them now here thru Nov. and support the Red Cross.

The Six Special Collaborations:

In addition to the special offering on Louis Vuitton North America's website, Louis Vuitton is celebrating the anniversary worldwide through exceptional Special Order collaborations with six different artists and designers.

Since its creation in 1854, Louis Vuitton has offered customers the possibility of producing Special Orders to cater a specific need or to fulfil a particular desire. In order to celebrate over a century and a half of exceptional savoir-faire at Louis Vuitton’s first workshop in Asnières, France, Louis Vuitton offered six masters of savoir-faire the opportunity to create a unique Special Order that embodies their exceptional expertise in their respective professions.

The six personalities are the artist Damien Hirst, the chef Ferran Adrià, the photographer Annie Leibovitz , the musician and composer Gustavo Santaolalla, the designer Marc Jacobs and Patrick Louis-Vuitton, the head of Louis Vuitton's Special Orders department and a member of the fifth generation of the Vuitton family. Each piece was designed by Patrick-Louis Vuitton in collaboration with the personality.

Annie Leibowitz and her LV Monogram Nomadic Photographer's Bag:

The bag being constructed in the Asnieres workshop:

Marc Jacobs' LV Monogram Dog Crate:

The crate being constructed in the Asnieres workshop:

Ferran Adrià and his LV Damier Graphite Travel Luggage:

The luggage being constructed in the Asnieres workshop:

Gustavo Santaolalla's LV Instrument Case:

The case being constructed in the Asnieres workshop:

Patrick Louis-Vuitton and his Compartmentalized Case:

The case being constructed in the Asnieres workshop:

Damien Hirst's Medical Cabinet:

Uniting tradition and modernity, these pieces are testament to Louis Vuitton’s savoir-faire in the domain of Special Orders. Ranging from hard-frame to soft-sided, they are interpreted in a variety of materials, from Monogram and Damier Graphite canvas, to Nomade leather and alligator.

The Asnieres workshop (above) was the sole production facility for Louis Vuitton from 1859 to 1977 and is where all hard-frame luggage, special orders, exotic leather and limited-edition bags continue to be made today. For over a century and a half the workshop has been the living symbol of the company's unique combination of tradition and innovation.

In addition to the unique special orders created by the masters of savoir-faire, the auction will also include a limited-edition Red Cross medical trunk, crafted by Louis Vuitton to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Red Cross:

The LV Red Cross Medical Kit:

above and below: The hard-sided case in Monogram canvas, equipped with Louis Vuitton’s signature natural leather handle, brass S-lock and corners, opens frontally to reveal an array of red and grey aluminum medicine boxes arranged in such a way as to form the familiar emblem of the RedCross. The logo of the Red Cross is hand-painted on the front of the case.

You can see some more wonderful images of the Louis Vuitton Medical Chest being built here at Hypebeast.

The Special Order pieces will be offered in a charity auction held at Sotheby's in London on November 17th with proceeds donated to the Red Cross. The proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Red Cross for their Fight against Malnutrition program in Nigeria.

These Special Orders will have traveled the world to cities such as Mexico City, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Dubai, Seoul and New York between July and November 2009, for a series of exclusive viewings by clients of Sotheby’s and Louis Vuitton.

Discussing this charity auction, Yves Carcelle, President of Louis Vuitton said: “For over a century and a half, Louis Vuitton's Asnières workshop has been the living symbol of the company's unique combination of tradition and innovation. To mark this important anniversary, Louis Vuitton will celebrate ‘l’Excellence du Savoir-Faire’ through its heritage of Special Orders by partnering with some of today’s iconic figures who themselves possess a rare expertise.”

Cheyenne Westphal, Sotheby’s Chairman of Contemporary Art Europe, commented: “We are thrilled to host this gala dinner charity auction in November, the proceeds of which will benefit such a worthy cause. The auction will showcase pieces created by some of the most talented individuals in their respective professions and the sale of these limited-edition pieces will no doubt generate tremendous excitement and interest.”

All information and images courtesy of Louis Vuitton, Red Cross and Sotheby's.

Creative Architectural Ironmongery By Philip Watts Design

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

If you're a design-centric real estate owner, you probably have gone out of your mind looking for the perfect hardware and fixture compliments to a modern home or office. I know that I searched high and low for a well made and cool-looking kickplate for my front door and had no luck. But that's because I didn't know about Philip Watts Design and their "creative architectural ironmongery". Now I do, and so will you.

Philip Watts Design is a creative design and building company located in Nottingham. Over the years they have established a range of products; stunning staircases, bathroom sinks and urinals, furniture and hardware for the home, all manufactured on the same site as the design studio.

If you happen to be outfitting or designing a new home, commercial, retail or office space, they have every kind of hardware detailing you need from stair nosing (also difficult to find cool ones) to long and short door handles and pulls to cool door signage. Various materials like heavy sand cast aluminum and brass are crafted into organic, geometric and whimsical designs ranging from elegant horn-like textures to gritty tactile patterns.

Their 'Door Furniture', as they call it, consists of a large line of beautiful hardware, available in various finishes and designs, inspired by animals, nature and even tire tread and bike handlebars. Portholes, lever handles, handles, push plates, kick plates, and more are available. Below are just some of my personal favorites, but they have a larger selection on their website which also has an online store.

Portholes (door windows with wired glass, etched glass and more):

Door Handles And Push Plates:

Kick plates (arrow, barcode, ruler and shoeprint):

Stair Nosing:

They also have stair edging and inlays.

Display shelving:

Sinks made of cast resin, polished brass and chrome plate:

The Spoon Urinal has a matching Spoon Pedestal Sink and both are made of cast resin:

The Pale Ale Urinal. Ever piss in a bucket? Well, now's your chance. The Pale Ale urinal is a bucket fixed on a plinth and fully plumbed. Available in all stainless steel, brass on a wood plinth or stainless on a resin plinth:

In addition to their vast array of hardware and few sinks and urinals, they do custom and commercial work and have created a few pieces of furniture, and amazing staircases for several clients. Here are some examples.

Caterpillar Bench:

Mercury Stool:

Staircases and Railings:

Philip Watts Design Team:

Contact Info:
Philip Watts Design
Unit 11: Byron Industrial Estate
Brookfield Road
Arnold
Nottingham
NG5 7ER

Telephone +44 (0) 115 9269756
Fax +44 (0) 115 9205395

Be sure to visit the site, there's much more to see.

Don't forget to check out this huge selection of door handles and hardware by famous architects and designers at:

Getting A Handle On Design With Valli & Valli and FSB

India's House With Balls. A Modern Residence & Fish Farm.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

I realize the title of this blog post reads like some sort of odd sexual euphemism, but the truth is it's a about an unusual modern home in rural Ahmedabad, India which is used as both a weekend residence and a place for the owner to raise fish. And yes, the balls, which are concrete weighted baubles, are an integral functional piece of the architecture and serve as the pulley system for the concrete shutters. Hence the name of the project by the Gujarat, India based architecture firm Matharoo Associates, "House With Balls."

text from GA houses 110, May 2009:

Scooped out of a plot of farmland twenty minutes outside Ahmedabad city, this house has been built for an aquarium shop owner to function as a place to breed fish as well as to serve as a weekend retreat.

Its design is centered around four fish breeding tanks and an observation room which could double up as a living room.

Every aspect of this design is set out to strip expense from the project; be it using 125mm thin concrete walls with standard concrete, one duct space for its three bathrooms, doors and windows made by pressing GI sheets or using bent rods to function as a handle and locking aldrop.

On approaching the entry from the country lane one finds the entrance nondescript and hidden in the scrub. The mandatory margin required is used for the tank space – while the walls of the plot and house are used as a retention structure for the tanks. These tanks are enclosed by glass windows which runs the entire length of the living space, the added bonus being that the glass works out cheaper than a concrete wall, more so for aquarium manufacturers!

On entering the house one steps up into a corridor opening to a small powder room on the left, followed by a choice to either take the left into the bedroom, or to carry on down directly into the long living space.

The layout of the house is such that several differing views of the water bodies are provided; in the bedroom space, the sitting ledge is just above the water level and looks down the long length of the pools; while the living space affords the inhabitant an uninterrupted view over the tanks when the windows are open, and view of the fish through below-the-sill glass windows.

Resting half-sunken under the ground level, negating the need for foundations, the long concrete-box house splits the plot space into two distinct yet continuously mingling spaces; it opens on one side to the garden and to the 49,000 litre fish breeding tanks on the other.

The living area can be opened to either of these two spaces by top hung metal shutters which extend at eye level through the entire length of the walls. When closed it is a 13m long and 3.6m wide space rendered by the light through the fish tanks.

On opening the shutters this linear space transforms completely into an infinite one perpendicular to its original direction. The metal shutters are held by handmade concrete baubles, the cheapest counterweights possible; they either swing in the wind when windows are partially open or dip out of view into the lily padded pools when the windows are fully open making the house animated in use or even without.

The concrete frame around the window plays multiple roles; as a seat from the garden side, steps for children to climb on from the garden or jump to from the terrace, a weather protection device while also providing a rat & snake proof section. It starts serving as a bar counter with the attached kitchen platform for larger gatherings. The grassy knoll that rises in front of the long opening bears under it a bio-gas plant, 50,000 litres of rain water storage, and an earth heat exchange tube.

Back through the shrubbery and fields the house assumes a squat position; the curving wall to one side allows one to walk up a gentle slope on to the terrace running over the length of the house. The weekenders enjoy the feeling of floating over a bed of lily petals while being weighed down by the baubles.

photos above courtesy of both Matharoo Associates and the very talented London photographer Edmund Sumner.

The plans:

Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Design Year: 2003
Construction Year: 2004
Client: Mr. Mahesh Mohatta
Project team:
* Gurjit Singh Matharoo- principal architect
* Hardik Pandit – trainee
Structural Engineer: Mr. Rajendra Singh Matharoo, Matharoo Associates
Interior Designer: Komal Mehta, Matharoo Associates
Landscape Architect: Matharoo Associates
General contractor: Shriram Builders, Ahmedabad
Layout: Living room, bedroom, caretaker’s room, 4 fish breeding tanks, kitchen, 3 toilets, 1 parking.
Structural system: Concrete Raft and Walls
Major materials: Reinforced Cement Concrete
Site area: Approx. 530 m2
Building area: Approx. 130 m2
Total floor area: Approx. 130 m2
Cost of construction: Approx. $100/m2 - $12,000 (in 2005)

Matharoo Associates
24 - E Capital Commercial Centre, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad - 380 009, Gujarat, India
Phone: +91 - 79 - 26577757 / +91 - 9879543505
Ph/Fax: +91 - 79 - 26576426

Check out some nice images of another wonderful residence by Matharoo Associates, the Ashok Patel Residence at Ahmedabad here.

Learn more about Gurjeet Singh Matharoo and some more of his works in this nice article with lots of images from Archinomy.

Stitchwitchery By Aubrey Longley-Cook. Sew Cool.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Talented young embroiderer Aubrey Longley-Cook ( who turns 24 tomorrow.. Happy Birthday Aubrey!!!) writes a blog from Atlanta, Georgia named Spool Spectrum on which he posts his own handiwork along with some fabulous textile work from other artists and some kitschy finds. He also sells some of his unique embroidery, each framed in a wood hoop, in a store of the same name as his blog on etsy.

above: Front and back of "Rex"

A self-proclaimed fan of cartoons, animation, cassettes and mix tapes, he is bringing embroidery a long way from its stereotype as a Granny craft.

This particular series of his fun "Stichwitchery" caught my eye:

Undead Thoroughbred:

Coop Spook:

Croaker:

Elephantom:

And more of his other wonderful pieces:

Make A Wish ( a series of embroidered Dragon balls):

Midas:

City In The Trees:

group Duel:

It's In Our Fingerprints:

Baal's Brass Band (embroidery on found fabric):

In addition to his embroidery shown above, he hand stitches cards, and creates many other interesting pieces of textile art.

above: Aubrey Longley-Cook

Check out his blog, Spool Spectrum and his etsy store. I, for one, look forward to seeing more of his work.

Never Heard Of Biegert & Funk? Then It's Time.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Biegert & Funk make one of the most beautifully designed clocks I have seen in awhile (and a cool matching iPhone app, too!).

The 45 squared (also called the QLOCKTWO) is a unique clock designed and handmade in Germany by Biegert & Funk, who also offer another clock, the Qlock 3.14, which you'll see later in this post.

The clock is marketed under two different names (the 45 squared at the London store fci and the QLOCKTWO at Biegert & Funk), but whatever you want to call it, it's a great looking timepiece.

Available as a wall mounted or tabletop version, without hands or numbers, the clock reveals the time, every 5 seconds, through glowing words that are selectively revealed by the cover placed upon it. The cover is not only available in five colors, as well as the newly released stainless steel version, but also in six different languages as well, allowing those all over the world the chance to own this extraordinarily designed clock.

(click on image to enlarge)

The front surface of the clock is made of polished synthetic glass and is supported by eight magnets, so the front surface can be replaced without visible attachments. When the clock is switched on, the chronometer adjusts itself to the split second and adapts the brightness of the characters to the ambient light.

Their newest addition is a Stainless Steel version:

Lime Green in Dutch:

Vanilla Sugar in Italian:

Cherry Cake Red in Spanish:

Black Ice Tea in German:

Frozen Blackberry in English:

Tabletop version in Russian:

All five colors (black, red, silvery-white, purple and lime green) and the stainless steel version are available in English, Dutch, German, Spanish, Russian and Italian.

The front cover replacements can be purchased separately, so you can have multiple colors or languages:

covers cost €95.00 EUR.

Even the cable extensions are thoughtful in their design, as they come in various colors:

clock cables cost €34.50.

How to read the clock:

No matter what color or what room, the clock looks fabulous in almost any interior:

technical specs:
* typographic time format in 5 minute intervals combined with four-minute dots
* Front: Acrylic glass polished edges, Body: Wood, four layers of lack
* DCF-77 time-signal receiver for to the second accurate time-telling without manual setting
* Automatic summer/winter daylight-savings time
* Light sensor for automatic adjustment to ambient light
* manual brightness control
* including wall brackets for mounting
* including massive acrylic glass holders for stand version
* Dimensions 450 x 450 x 20 mm, Weight approx. 4 kg
* International electricity supply 110V/220V, very low energy consumption (LED)
* handmade in Germany

And yes, there's an iPhone app too (English and German only):

get the iphone app at the itunes store.

QLOCKTWO is officially awarded the FORM#09 design award by German Crafts Association for its innovative design and functionality

At €900 EUR, it's not cheap, (stainless steel version is €1099.00 EUR) but then again, you're investing in a piece of art that functions as a clock. The clock is available from both the upscale and unique furniture and interior design company, fci and from the Biegert & Funk online store.

Qlock 3.14

Qlock 3.14 by Beigert & Funk is a much less expensive (€179.00 EUR) and less unique option, but is also available in various colors and languages. The round clock (love the name beause it is Pi and 'pie' is round) is battery operated and has a synthetic glass cover with metal hands.

Buy the Qlock 3.14 here.

Biegert & Funk GmbH & Co. KG
Goethestraße 29
73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd
Phone: +49 7171 104999 0
Fax: +49 7171 104999 22

A Cool Look & Warm Feeling For The Winter Olympics From TBWA Chiat Day & VISA

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Advertising agency TBWA Chiat Day continues their inspiring work for the Olympics with a new campaign, promotion and website for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The GO WORLD ad campaign for VISA continues, but now with a cool icy blue winter look and a warm approach. The television, print work and accompanying website give us chills, while simultaneously raising our body temperatures.

The campaign breaks with a new TV commercial, still using the fabulous Morgan Freeman as the voice-over:

In addition, they are promoting using your VISA card for a chance to win a trip to the Winter Games:

The website, which just launched yesterday, intimately introduces us to five competing athletes; Linsdey Jacobellis, Julia Mancuso, Ryan St. Onge, Angela Ruggiero, and Alexi Salamone, whose inspirational stories are told through nicely produced beautiful training videos, photo stills and more.

above: the homepage of the newly launched website

Here are the 5 athletes showcased on the site, photo stills and training videos.

Lindsey Jacobellis, Women's Snowboard Cross:

Lindsey, 24, is one of the most successful women snowboarders in the world. At the 2006 Olympic Winter Games, she took home a silver in the Women's Snowboard Cross.

Julia Mancuso, Women's Alpine Ski:

At 25, Julia is the current women's Olympic giant slalom gold medal champion, and holds the record for the most consecutive podium finishes at U.S. championships.

Ryan St. Onge, Men's Freestyle Aerials:

Ryan, 26, is the Olympic gold medal favorite in the sport of Men's Freestyle Aerials. With 7 career World Cup wins, he closed out the 2009 season ranking #2 in the world. Look out for his quintuple-twisting triple-back somersault (that's 3 flips with 5 twists) he plans to unleash in Vancouver.

Angela Ruggiero, Women's Ice Hockey:

A three-time Olympic medalist, World Champion Angela is the leader of the U.S. Women's Hockey Team. She currently holds the record as "All-time Leader in Games Played for TEAM USA."

Alexi Salamone, Men's Paralympic Sled Hockey:

At only 22, he is one of the best sled hockey players in the world. An integral player in the bronze medal-winning team in the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games, he made the 2010 US Paralympic sled hockey team and is presently training in New York for a victory this year.

And, beginning November 4, you can customize a VISA gift card on the website to include a photo of one of the athletes:

The Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games take place on February 12th.

TBWA Chiat Day
VISA

Maniac Pumpkin Carvers Are Sick. And A Successful Business.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:48:00 +0000

MANIAC Pumpkin Carvers have turned the art of carving a pumpkin into quite a business. Creating 'promotional' and 'custom' pumpkins, their artful work is often used at Hollywood industry parties and movie launches, company events, hotel and restaurant lobbies, retail establishments and more.

Marc Evan and Chris Soria are the masterminds and talent behind Maniac Pumpkin Carvers. Lifelong friends and colleagues, both are graduates from Parsons School of Design who started creating together at the age of 12.

Outside of October, Marc and Chris are professional creatives, involved in art, illustration, murals, photography, and visual innovation, but during the month of Halloween, these guys rule the pumpkin carving realm.

Hand crafted with detail and attention in a full creative studio, Maniac Pumpkins bring fascination and allure to any home, lobby, bar, restaurant, club, or social environment.

Specializing in intricate carvings, Maniac Pumpkin Carvers turn ordinary pumpkins into glowing portraits, pictures, logos, lettering, wraparound designs, and all manner of monsters.

Maniac Pumpkin Carvers are committed to being environmentally responsible. They use locally grown pumpkins and green practices whenever possible. All of their promotional materials are printed by Jakprints with soy inks on recycled paper.

Custom pumpkins carved from photos:

These works of art make the perfect centerpiece for any social gathering from halloween and birthday parties to weddings and corporate events, attracting attention and leaving lasting impressions.

all images and info courtesy of Maniac pumpkin carvers and Wired Magazine.

There is a limit to how many carvings they can do each year so make your reservations now!

Don't forget to thee amazing pumpkin carvings out, too:

Pumpkin Carving Continues To Grow Even Geekier

Scott Cummins Doesn't Carve Pumpkins, He Sculpts Them

Four Artists Have The Same Big Idea With Mini Figurines

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

In advertising, when attempting to come up with a fresh idea or execution, it is often said "it's been done". The same can hold true of many art related disciplines and clearly the juxtaposition of miniature figurines with ordinary objects has proved to be but one of the concepts often executed.

Here are just four (and there are more) artists/photographers who have created visual narratives by placing tiny human figurines with ordinary and mundane items.

1. Baktana by Ami Drach and Dov Ganchrow

Ami Drach and Dov Ganchrow are artists/industrial designers who combined their talents in 1996 to form an Israeli-based design studio located in South Tel Aviv. They collaborate on everything from lighting design and furniture to medical products and dinnerware (you may have seen their "hotplates" on designboom).

One of their lesser known projects, Baktana, is a series of miniature figurines juxtaposed with found objects, creating little narratives. I just love them, so I wanted to share them with you. The tiny monochrome figurines are those often used in architectural models or with model trains. By placing them in and around such mundane objects as pencil sharpeners, wire brushes and keys, they create stories of their own.

All these itty bitty set-ups fit one one table:

See more of their work and projects here.

2. Vincent Bousserez Plastic Life

Another artist who creates narratives by combining miniature figurines with found objects is talented photographer Vincent Bousserez and his Plastic Life Series. Coincidentally, he even uses some of the same objects, like the brush:

A few more images from Vincent's Plastic life series:

He has an enormous amount of images in this series, and you can see them all here.

3. Jason Barnhart

San Francisco photographer Jason Barnhart has also shot a series of HO scale figurines with found objects- or in many of his images, food. You won't find these images on his site but he contributed them to JPG magazine under the name CultureSpy:

See more of Jason's miniature images here.

4. Slinkachu

An anonymous street artist who goes by the name of Slinkachu, has a series named "Little People Left In The City To Fend For Themselves." What make his or her work slightly different than the others is that the series is a street art installation, placing these out in the world, as opposed to being created in a studio. The images below show the narratives as close-ups and then as they are seen in the environments.

in situ:

in situ:

in situ:

in situ:

in situ:

See more work by Slinkachu here.

And there you have it, four talents with the same big idea of tiny people.

Cars You Can See Yourself In. No, Really... 25 Mirrored Chrome Finished Cars

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:10:00 +0000

There's been some hubbub over the chrome finished Audi R8 in this years' 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The shiny R8 5.2 FSI V10 coupe shown above and below has been turning heads and making the blogs, car mags and auto news.

The Chrome Finished Audi R8:

But they aren't the first to apply a shiny chrome finish to a car, and certainly won't be the last.

Take a look at all of these cars, 25 of different models, with chromed and mirrored painted finishes.

Previously chrome finished Audis:

The Chrome finished Bugatti Veyron Pur Sang:

Various Chrome Finished Mercedes:

Chrome finished Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano:

Chrome finished Lamborghini Murcielago LP640:

The above car actually belongs to 50 cent.
Below is the finish being applied to the car by Alsa Corp:

Chrome finished Porsche Turbos:

above 2 porsche photos courtesy of Adam Haranghy

Chrome finished Lexus IS 250:

Chrome finished Hummers:

Chrome finished BMW M3s:

above image courtesy of tuninggarage.ro

Chrome Shelby GT500:

above photos and finish by Chrome & Carbon of Dubai.

Chrome finished Mustang:

Chrome finished Jaguar:

Chrome finished Nissan Silvia S15:

Chrome finished Nissan Skyline:

Chrome Finished Peugeot:

Chrome Finished Citroen:

Chrome finished Range Rover:

Chrome finished Volvo:

Unknown (tell me if you know this model and make, please)

Chrome finished Prototype car for Volkswagon by Gustavo Motta of Sao Paulo:

Most of these amazing finishes were provided with Mirra Chrome paints by Alsa Corp .

What is MirraChrome®?

MirraChrome represents the latest in Reflective Paint Coating Technology. It can be referred to as Chrome spray paint, or Spray Chrome Reflective Paint or Chrome Paint. It's near microscopic particle content provides superior surface orientation. This particle alignment is the key to MirraChrome's shine. While many attempts have been made by others to achieve a "chrome paint" no one has come close. Through a rigorous development process we have established the specific process and coatings to allow MirraChrome to achieve remarkable brilliance and be clearcoated. That's right, clear-coated. Alsa's MirraChrome can be topcoated with high quality automotive rade poly-urethane clearcoat such as Alsa's Speed Clear or any other topcoat without losing its true chrome look.

Wanna chrome your car?
You can get chrome car paints or kits
here at Alsa Corp
here at Kustom rides
and here at Exotic Custom paints.

Berlin Photographer Kerstin zu Pan's Colorful Supervision Series

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

"SUPERVISION"
by berlin photographer kerstin zu pan

"Beauty in unusual circumstances comes easily to the camera of Kerstin zu Pan, one of Berlin's most original photographers. Her photos are moments amid stories - playful wild stories that leave the reviewer guessing. Her work is expressive, ebulliant, and strange. There is always more here than is apparent at first glance." --Clayton Maxwell, Eyemazing 3/2007

Thanks so much to Kerstin for her permitting me to reproduce these photos.

Credits:
Concept & photography: Kerstin zu Pan
Wig & Hair: Acacio da Silva
Make-up & Lashes: Karla Neff
Model: Britta Thie / Viva

See her other wonderful works at her website as well as information about editions,  commercial requests and bookings  here.

Kerstin zu Pan Photography

Modern Waterproof Wood Sinks And Tubs From UWD

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:01:00 +0000

In 1979, UWD (Unique Wood Designs) began by building yachts, boats and canoes. After thirty years they had developed a very high quality boat-building and carpentry workshop, so they began looking ahead.

Their experience and innovative ideas led them to envision a company that today is called Unique Wood Design and is a net of workshops cooperating with young creative designers. They design and craft handmade wooden bathtubs and washbasins,a combination of their carpentry tradition and modern boat-building technologies.

They developed a unique wood coating technique; numerous layers allow deep wood penetration with a coating that is outstandingly durable and fully waterproof. It protects the wood from scratching and UV radiance. It also has antiseptic properties. Apart from the practical part of our coating technology, there is also an aesthetic side. The multi-layered woods they apply bring out the original wood grain give it the effect of incredible depth and variety of textures.

Their wooden bathtubs and washbasins are manufactured utilizing two carpentry technologies: hardwood - the most durable wood form, and veneer technology which allows a wider range of unique colors and effects. They use the best quality woods coming from controlled falling plantations. Their products are made of various European, Asian and African woods.

Here's a look at some of their most unique and beautiful pieces:

Sinks:

above: Nel corner sink in American walnut

above: Kyla sink in Sapele

above: Gilda sink in Sapele

above: Nuriel pedestal sink in Sapele

above: Rhea sink in Ash

above: Lavonne sink in Ash

above: Oriana sink in Padouk

above: Vivena double sink in Maple

above: Maris double sink in American Walnut

Bathtubs:

above: Serena tub in American Walnut

above: Tiara tub in Whitened Oak

above: Nova corner tub in Wengé

above: Sidra tub in Oak

above: Beatrice tub in Sapele

above: Eureka tub in Ash

above: Kassiopeia tub in Wengé

above: Nerfernerfer Tub in Padouk

Contact info:
biuro@uniquewood.pl

Magdalena Szafraniec (english)
0048 794 98 58 70
Tomasz Gospodarek (german, english)
0048 796 47 87 24

Unique Wood Design
Powstańców Śląskich 82
53-333 Wrocław

See their complete collection here.

Dyson Launches Two New 'Blueprint' Edition Vacuums

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

There are not many utilitarian house cleaning items about which I'd rave, let alone devote a blog post. But as my neighbors know, and some of my Facebook friends, I'm a freak for my Dyson.

As the owner a smooth coated Jack Russell Terrier who is generously allowed on all my furniture when I am often clad in the expected cliché artist's uniform of mostly black clothing, I couldn't live without my trusty Dyson vacuum. I know, I know, you think they are ridiculously expensive. Well, let me tell you, I've put more mileage on my Dyson than on my car in the past few years and it's been worth every cent.

That said, it is with great glee that I announce their two new limited edition all white vacuums! The new BLUEPRINT EDITIONS of the DC24 and DC25 are an homage to past inventors and their inventions.

Both The Dyson DC24 and DC25 BLUEPRINT are limited edition Dyson Ball™ upright vacuum cleaners that celebrates engineers. Theycomes with a Flat Out™ head for cleaning thoroughly under low furniture and appliances and is a limited time offer. The DC24 Blueprint will be sold exclusively at Target for $429 and the DC25 can be bought at the Dyson online store for $529.99

click on image below to enlarge

detail of the Dyson DC25 BLUEPRINT:

Below is the official press release:

JAMES DYSON CELEBRATES INVENTION AND GREAT INVENTORS

Dyson launches two new limited-edition vacuums highlighting the importance of engineering and perseverance

Chicago, IL – (October 2009) - In honor of finding engineering solutions, Dyson launches two Ball vacuums: DC24 and DC25 Blueprint. The limited edition machines offer an insight into the methodical design process used by Dyson engineers. The DC24 and DC25 Blueprint machines symbolize Dyson prototypes through use of white polycarbonate plastic, annotated by original engineering notes, formulas and testing data.

“Once we develop an idea, it goes into prototyping. Testing technology is the only way to make sure it works better. The notes on the machines track the progression of improvement.”

Dyson Blueprint is also a celebration of heroes of modern invention: Thomas Edison, Buckminster Fuller and Charles Goodyear and their ability to embrace failure as a lesson, part of the process and not an obstacle. These design giants exemplified true perseverance – learning from one failure to another, to offer the world technology that changed the way we live.

“They are mostly known for their forward thinking but it was the refusal to give up that showed the world their true brilliance,” said Dyson. “Having an idea is far from invention – actually seeing it through is infinitely harder.”

Engineering heroes and their stories:

•Thomas Edison found 10,000 different ways that did not work but refused to give in when most would have. Working through hundreds of materials and thousands of prototypes -using human hair, cedar, horn and even bamboo - Edison finally found the answer to the light bulb – carbonized cotton thread.

above: one of Thomas Edison's patent drawings from 1880

•Methodically teaching himself structural engineering after failing college, Richard Buckminster Fuller believed that getting rid of what didn’t work was the first step forward. Studying networks such as beehives and fishing nets, Fuller created his geodesic dome, an inspiration for many structures around the world including Disney’s Epcot Center.

above: Buckminster Fuller's Geodesic Dome

•Between stints in debtors’ jail, Charles Goodyear spent nine years developing vulcanized rubber in a makeshift laboratory. After years of testing every conceivable concoction, he found his solution by chance after dropping a rubber sample on a hot stove. He was able to transform it into the hard, smooth springy substance now used in almost every walk of life.

above: Charles Goodyear and his vulcanized rubber made what we now know as the tire possible

Like his heroes, James Dyson is no stranger to the laborious design process and back-to-back failures. Out of frustration, Dyson set out to find a solution to the bad performing vacuum. Working through more than 5000 prototypes Dyson successfully created the first vacuum that did not lose suction. Like many inventors, the solution came from an unexpected place, a sawmill. It took more than five years, but in 1993, James Dyson offered the world the first cyclonic vacuum cleaner.

Both limited-edition machines are available in early October 2009 through the end of the year. DC24 Blueprint will be sold exclusively at Target for $429. DC25 Blueprint will be at mass retailers nationwide with a MSRP of $529.

About Dyson:
Research, Design and Development is at the core of Dyson. One third of the people at Dyson are engineers and scientists with expertise in fluid, mechanical, electrical, EMC, thermal, chemical, acoustic and software engineering. They are constantly designing new products as well as challenging and improving existing technologies. Dyson has over 1,200 patents and patent applications for over 250 different inventions (May 2008). Dyson’s RDD investment has quadrupled over the last 5 years. The total number of Dyson vacuum cleaners sold worldwide since 1993 is over 24.5 million (2007) – and still counting. 10 million of these were sold in the last 3 years.

www.dyson.com

As long as we're talking vacuum design, check this one out:

Pia Wallen's Special Edition UltraSilencer Vacuum For Electrolux

FLOWmarket, Next Generation Luxury In A Can.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Just prior to their product launch, I wrote a large post on the selling of consumer awareness via an unusual retail store concept called the FLOWmarket.

above: God in a can? And for only $19.97? That's a deal.

Here we are, over 2 years later and it's time for an update. FLOWmarket is a temporary or pop-up store that travels around the world, selling what they term" new generation luxury".

Previous stores:
Zurich, may 2005
New York, june 2006
Taipei, jan-march 2007
Shanghai, july-sep 2007
Singapore, jan 2008
Seoul, may 2008
Copenhagen, 2005 - 2009

At current there are no brick and mortar stores, but their collection of products can be purchased online. However, the items available are different than when I first wrote about them.

Whereas the items in their pop-up stores are in diverse packaging, like those shown above, they now sell 73 different items online, but each is a single small can costing $19.97 USD.

Here are a few examples:

In their own words:

FLOWmarket is a store that materializes our immaterial needs. FLOWmarket is about next generation luxury. FLOWmarket is designed from the notion that change happens when we as individuals change our mindset. FLOWmarket has due to its simple and universal form been able to succesfully cross cultural boundries between Europe, US and Asia. FLOWmarket is often asked by journalists if they should label it as design, as art, as business or as activism. FLOWmarket have had temporary stores open in Copenhagen, Zurich, New York, Taipei, Shanghai, Singapore and Seoul. FLOWmarket opened its first store in 2004. FLOWmarket is created and designed by Mads Hagstrøm.

Shop FLOWmarket here.
Product photography by Niclas Jessen.

To read about their original project and philosophy, the FLOWinstitute and more, go here.

Another Edgy Design Collection, Arctic Rock Furniture.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Sculpted entirely out of wood, the Arctic Rock series by Studio JSPR is a collection of high gloss white furniture whose unusual hard angular accents resemble both origami and of course, its namesake... Arctic Rock.

The collection consists of tables, chairs, bar stools, seats and accessories for hotel, restaurant, or home living purposes. And there is a matching vase available, the ‘Diamond Vase’, made out of Bone China, that has been developed in collaboration with Pol’s Potten.

The collection:

The Bone China vase:

About JSPR:
JSPR is an interior design brand that is always creating remarkable new collections and unique interiors. Their passion is to create designs that both stand for high quality products and for innovation and creativity realized through professional craftsmanship. Among JSPR’s clients are hotels, restaurants, shops, architects, and individual consumers.

JSPR is always experimenting with new innovative materials in its production studio. This results in a unique range of handmade product and furniture collections. Aside from this, JSPR also creates custom-made interiors, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

Studio JSPR was founded in 2005 by Jasper van Grootel who graduated at the Design Academy Eindhoven under supervision of Oscar Penya. Now, in 2007, we consist of a 6 man strong independent designer team which stands for the solid base of our company. Creative designers, supported by a technical and economical educated staff, make sure that every product or project is realised to everybody's maximum satisfaction.

Studio
Lichttoren 270
5611BJ Eindhoven
The Netherlands

Visit Studio JSPR here.

If you like angular designs, then you've gotta see these:

The works of Buchegger Denoth Feichtner Design

Shades Of Modern Luxury: Gold & Wood Eyewear

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Paris-based Gold & Wood is yet another eyewear designer who creates high-end sunglasses and eyeglasses for the discerning luxury and design loving crowd. And, of course, a celeb clientele. Look out Luxuriator, you've got some serious competition.

Studded with genuine diamonds and/or gemstones and utilizing the finest materials such as platinum, 18k gold, horn, carbon fiber, titanium and exotic woods, their styles, craftsmanship and attention to detail is among the finest.

With many styles to choose from and different amounts of bling, their large range of bejeweled frames will leave you drooling.

But that's only one facet of their several collections. They have many lines and styles that include rimless, partial rim, sporty, oversized, colorful, monochrome, glam, subtle, not so subtle, modern, retro, wood and titanium, wood and carbon fiber and even more frames.

I'm going to share their newest and most drop dead styles with you, but be sure to visit their site when you're done reading this, because they have many other styles, too.

Starting at the tippy-top, the Prestige is their most expensive pair, with hand shaped horn temple stems, solid platinum accents and high quality diamond-studded temple hinges and bridge:

264 diamonds total
Carats: 2.59cts
Quality "brilliants" (round cut): GH/VVS
Quality "princess" (square cut): F/CLEAN

Made up of 253 brilliant cut diamonds and 11 princess cut ones, these bejeweled, platinum and horn rimless frames are said to have required all the considerable skill of a master jeweller in order to set the select stones with the greatest of care. And the price reflects it at $55,000.00 USD.

More images of The Prestige:

Obviously most can't afford the Prestige, but don't fret, they have other diamond studded frames in their Temptation and Bling-Bling collections. Some have yellow gold, white or rose gold temple stems with diamonds at both the temple hinge and the nose bridge and some just on the temple stems or hinges. Various colored shades and finely crafted horn or carbon fiber temple bars are also options. Take a look:

Bejeweled Eyewear

detail:

details:

detail:

detail:

detail:

detail:

details:

detail:

detail:

As if that weren't enough, they are equally adept with other materials. Their modern wood, titanium and/ or carbon fiber glasses are stylish but unique. Some styles mix organic materials and exotic woods with metals and/or colors, creating a huge range. Here are just some of them:

Wood Eyewear

In their own words:

At GOLD & Wood workshops, passion and time drive the hands of the artisans who craft each component, one by one, in the purest tradition of exclusive eyewear. Because everything here is handmade, it takes three days to craft a pair of temples of such remarkable quality. Taking the time to do it well: There lies the expression of the luxury.

Over the past few years, the artisans and designers at Gold & Wood creating ever-more successful models, slowly forging a different, exclusive and authentic collection. Their discreet and stylish looks, as well as the quality and nobility of the material used in Gold & Wood frames, give them their uniqueness. Such workmanship is guaranteed to excite the enthusiasm of buyers, connoisseurs and collectors everywhere.

Every set of frames bearing the Gold & Wood signature has received the most attentive care by our eyewear designers and craftsmen.

They are assembled and adjusted by hand then inspected and approved by an experienced controller. The tests performed on the frames – and particularly on the spring-hinges are a guarantee of workmanship and reliability.

See more styles at their site here.

If you have a thing for eyewear, be sure to see these posts:

• If You've Never Seen The Eyewear of Linda Farrow, You Could Use Some Glasses.

• Uber Luxe: Luxuriator's Diamond & 18k Glasses and Sunglasses

Fatboy Introduces Color Changing Chairs, A Lamp & Hot Water Bottle Pillow

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:00:00 +0000

Fatboy, whose products I have not been a huge fan of in the past ( see... "Fatboy. Great Furniture Or This Decade's Bean Bag Chairs?") have added some interesting designs to their products making them more appealing to me - and probably you.

Fatboy, if you don't already know, is the Dutch company that designs and sells colored and Marimekko covered bean bag items for adults, children and pets as well as hammocks and ottomans (or poufs as they've come to be called) that work indoors and out. They also sell bags.

At the 2009 Maison et Objet show they introduced some new items to their collection; the Djeksuns, the Edison Grand Lamp and the Desswerrum, a pillow that functions as a hot water bottle.

Djeksuns:
The new Fatboy Djeksun is made with an exclusive and stylish fabric that has the cool effect of changing color when your own bodyweight stretches the surface of the fabric.

Available in three styles, the bean bag chairs are hilariously named after members of the Jackson Family- a nod to their own 'color-changing' skin.

The LaToya:

The Janet:

The Michael:

Not yet available in their online store, they plan to start selling them in November. However, they are already available for purchase here.

Also a new addition to their line is Edison The Grand, a giant lamp:

With its oversized body this lamp displays a robust elegance even when unlit and it doesn't require a table to stand on to do so. This lamp stands perfectly by and the no nonsense finishing and aesthetics makes this object suitable for both indoors and outdoors.

And coming in 2010, the Desswerrum, a refillable hot water bottle/pillow to keep you cozy:

Shop Fatboy products here.

Now, here's my idea of a truly luxurious "bean bag" chair:

Check out the natural cowskin cowch here.

The Best Modern Coffins. When You Want To Go Out In Style.

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

Halloween is just around the corner, so what better time than now to introduce you to the coolest modern coffins and caskets on the market.

Cheesy Novelty & Fantasy Coffins Don't Count As Modern:
Sure, there are outrageous novelty and fantasy coffins shaped like everything from giant fish to shoes and by now, you have likely seen the gold-plated coffin by Batesville Casket Company, the one in which Michael Jackson chose to be buried. Memorable? yes. Modern? No.

Companies like Art Casket will specialty paint metal caskets, making them individualized, but modern? Hardly.

above: metal painted coffins from Art Casket are more like airbrushed van art than modern design

And some of you may even have seen the slew of printed and custom graphic cardboard eco friendly coffins by companies like Colourful Coffins, Creative Coffins and Dying Art on various blogs or sites, like those shown below.

above: cardboard printed coffins may be modern, but they certainly are not stylish

And yes, there are even coffins for Baseball fans and Star Trek lovers. But these are 'novelty' coffins that I would call tacky as opposed to modern.

When it comes to truly modern coffins, there are hardly any to speak of. That's why I wanted to show you some of the ones that do exist.

Now For Truly Modern Coffins:

1-6. Coffin-tec

above: Architect and modern coffin designer, Gregor Darius Haiduk

German-based Architect Gregor Haiduk also happens to be a modern coffin designer. His Coffin Tec caskets are custom made to order and crafted from NDF natural woods and colored lacquer finishes. The carrying bars are made of iron or copper and fastened with copper or metal modern fittings. White linen lined interiors add to his faceted and unusual caskets. These are truly works of art.

One of his first prototypes, designed in 1998:

Later produced models to follow.

The Cross:

The Organ:

The Octavian and The Classic:

The Dolphin casket for children:

Casket for premature infants:

Visit Coffin Tec here.

7. Uono Cocoon Coffin

The Uono Cocoon coffin is a modern oval pod with a high gloss lacquer finish that is entirely made by hand. Developed by Andreas Spiegel in cooperation with various funeral directors, the very modern lightweight Cocoon coffin is available in 14 different colors.

The handles are neatly tucked into the design and easily extend for handling. It is specially made of a material that is firm, but actually bio-degrades in 10 to 15 years:

Visit Uono Coffins here.

8. Luigi Colani's Eternity 2000
The Eternity 2000, a modern coffin by designer Luigi Colani for Epocca of Germany:

This coffin was mass produced in Germany and sold, but is no longer in production, nor can I locate the company. My apologies.

9. J. Marlow's Modern Motorcyle Lover's Coffin
J. Marlow Company of Michigan also makes custom caskets. The Motorcycle Lovers coffin is clad in whip-stitched black leather with biker-like accents. The design is taken from the concept of a saddlebag with the added touch of stainless steel exhaust for the handles and the old school look of the chromed fishtail ends. The top is accented with chrome studs:

10- 11. Modern Coffins By Joe Scanlan

Things That Fall is a gallery that offered two beautiful sleek modern coffins by artist Joe Scanlan. Joe Scanlan is the artist who created the DIY coffin for IKEA.

The Custom is an elegant and unique vessel crafted in Australia entirely from Tasmanian Blackwood. As the brand name implies, Custom is no off-the-shelf coffin, with not one of its construction angles being a reasonable 90 degrees.

Day Bed is just as meticulously crafted as Custom, but its care is devoted to a gorgeous inlaid surface that creates an illusory, coffered effect. Very clean and very modern.

Both the Custom and the Daybed caskets each cost $15,000. and are sold.
Things That Fall.

12. Lux Mortem Caskets

Another designer, Brian Tenorio, is on the brink of introducing a line of upscale designer coffins. The Lux Mortem designer caskets are designed and made in the Philippines. Simple and sleek, the upcoming designs are said to range from classic designs to contemporary artforms. The launch collection will be available in Manila’s top funeral parlors in November 2009.

above: renderings of the Radiance and the Emerald Cut caskets
Lux Mortem will be launching these lines in 2010.

13. TenderRest NextGen Coffins
And for those who prefer a more eco-friendly resting place, TenderRest of New Zealand offers a line of Bamboo coffins whose simplicity and modern style is an elegant, lightweight and earth friendly alternative.

14. The Ecopod
And there's the Ecopod. More modern in function and materials than looks per se, the Ecopod from ARKA is made by hand from recycled newspapers and hand finished with paper made from recycled silk and mulberry leaves, the Ecopod is available in a range of colours with screen printed motifs, plain white, or gold.

Screenprinted Ecopods:

Gold ecopod:

The inner base of the Ecopod is covered with a natural calico mattress and the interior painted light cream, or white, using eco-friendly paints. As an optional extra, the walls of the interior can also be lined with feathers in a choice of colours, including white, red, cream or pale blue.

Learn more about the Ecopod.

Although this isn't an available option, this project by artist and designer Charles Constantine deserves noting:

15. The Memento Coffin/table

In the artists own words:
Memento is a dual purpose piece of furniture that functions as a coffee table during its first stage, and as a coffin in its second. Memento will absorb the life and love that occurs around it, and will create personal identifications with the coffin, through the patina it acquires over time. Memento creates value through the symbolism inherent in the design.

The body is meant to be placed in a fetal position, which gives the piece its shape. This way the body can be buried facing the east, toward the rising sun, which is a common symbol of rebirth. The casket is made of pine, and treated with a soap finish, making it ecologically friendly. The open bottom construction, will help the body reintegrate into the environment faster. Memento is an attempt to bring one of our most sacred rituals back into the hands of the family, by encouraging home death care.
See more of Charles Constantine's work.

Ah, now I can rest in peace. And in style.

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If you never saw my post on Coffin Couches, now would be a good time to check it out.

5.5 Designers Make A Modern Cabinet For Collectors

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:15:00 +0000

above: All those tacky little knick-knacks, tchotchkes, and whatnots will look a lot nicer if they were placed in this.

Loosely translated from their own words, originally in French:

We (5.5 Designers) created the Meuble à collection (piece of furniture for collections) as a way to immortalize the objects of which we often have difficulty disposing. Ordinarily placed on the mantel, a shelf or buffet, they gradually settle into our environment and we find it difficult to refrain from amassing them. This symptom of the chronic amassing of objects is called 'collecting', an old-fashioned and popular practice in which one gives sentimental value in the context of 'overconsumption'.

Inspired by the small scale 'houses' used to hold perfume bottles, crystal animals and other thingamajigs, this piece of furniture allows you to store and display the objects you covet. It helps to reconcile the passion some have for objects like miniature cars or thimbles with the knowledge that the more that one collects around the house, the more these objects collect dust and take up room.

Material: Made of pine wood, wood-notched niches, bottom in groove.
Dimensions: height:1m98 width:1m90 depth: 24cm.
Color: natural pine.

Price on request and can be purchased from their online shop here.

What Do Heidi Klum, Louboutin, Debbie Harry, Joan Jett & Cyndi Lauper Have In Common?

lauralsweet@mac.com (Laura Sweet) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:00:00 +0000

They're all new Mattel Barbie dolls. That's what.

It was a big year for Barbie, with the 50th anniversary celebrations, Jonathan Adler and Pop Life Mod Barbie dolls and the big NY Fashion Week Barbie fashion show.

Mattel hasn't slowed down. Get ready for more collectible Barbie dolls that play on popular culture, past and present.

They just released their Heidi Klum Barbie Doll.

The doll, designed by Robert Best, even includes a simulation of her actual 10 carat fancy yellow diamond ring given to her by husband Seal and bejeweled golden sandals.:

Buy the Heidi Klum Barbie here.

And their soon-to0be-released Christian Louboutin Barbie Doll.

Barbie® by Christian Louboutin (the world renowned shoe designer) dolls have been produced in a limited edition of 7,700 produced worldwide.

pre-order the Christian Louboutin Barbie here.

Also available for pre-order are their Women of the 80's dolls (Debbie Harry as Blondie, Joan Jett and Cyndi Lauper).

Debbie Harry as Blondie Doll coming in December:

pre-order the Blondie Doll here.

Joan Jett Barbie Doll coming in December:

pre-order the Joan Jett Doll here.

Cyndi Lauper Barbie doll coming in January 2010:

pre-order the Cyndi Lauper doll here

If you've got young or tween girls in the house, any of these would make an awesome Holiday gift. But snap them up, these puppies go fast!