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Davenport, Iowa...a hotbed for modern lifestyle?
...not really. But making strides! With the new Figge Art Museum designed by David Chipperfield, this once sleepy town now has a brilliant architectural gem.
David Chipperfield Architects have done projects like the Bryant Park Hotel in NY and Dolce & Gabbana retail stores. They are very talented and this waterfront museum is one of many civic projects. They have offices in Shanhai, Berlin and London.
If you don't spot what you need there, try your local Anthropologie or Restoration Hardware. Also, visit Target. I visited my local Targey earlier this week and noticed a nice array of hardware. If your local Target doesn't carry what you crave, try them online, they have much more to choose from. (Target knobs + pulls)
NEW Hardware
Cool Knobs + Pulls
Knob Gallery
Carol Beach Knobs
SALVAGED Hardware
Don't forget to search the web for local architectural salvage stores in your hood. Whenever I'm in San Diego, I always hit Architectual Salvage on the corner of Grape and India in Little Italy. It's one of my favorite salvage stores in the country. There's also a lot of great ones down south too, especially Pinch of the Past in Savannah.
A few that I like:
Architectual Artifacts in Chicago - A midwest leader with their own museum, too!
Rejuvenation online and also in Seattle and Portland.
Architectural Salvage in Burlington Vermont (great place, I've been).
Interested in more great design tips? Visit Holly Becker's Design Blog, decor8. http://www.decor8.blogspot.com
Continuing on the "You get what you pay for" in window quality tip...
Recently, I covered Loewen : one of the larger suppliers of windows and doors in the world.
Today, we will take a look at Vista Window Film : the largest manufacturer of window film and window film components in the world.
Why am I doing this? Well, I explained in my previous post that a window is not just a window and frankly, if you have some views you would like to enjoy outside your house, cabin, apartment, etc., why not enjoy it to the fullest? It lasts a lifetime.
Why Window Film? To start, it helps with:
- Increasing optical quality
- Heat Reduction
- Glare Reduction
- 99.9% UVA/UVB protection
- Safety improvement (glass doesn't shatter)
It is professionally installed and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Heat Reduction, Visual quality enhancement, Glare reduction, 99.9% UVB UAB
Sendomatic.com is all set for Spring with new e-invitation designs for Baby Showers, Mother's Day, Pool Parties, and Barbecues. Love the retro and hand made looking designs. You can create and send out your invite in minutes. The software easily tracks RSVPs and you can add a picture and send reminders.
Previously, I had posted about the modern media console by BDI.
Today, we will take a look at another home for your media center: Menos
Menos is manufactured by Behr International and designed by Architect Peter Maly.
I like this complete unit that can be customized in terms of look and size. Rather than having a traditional unit that is built upwards and to the sides of the TV unit, this fresh looking console hugs up against the wall and can serve as storage for your TV, its components and wires, but also house other items to decorate your media or living room. Think less TV stand and more living room furniture.
It has may color options. The unit included recessed, fold-out, aluminum grips. The crates come in matte or glossed varnishes.
Decorating with hides isn't just for the cowboys anymore. A hide rug, ottoman or upholstered piece can add an eclectic touch to your modern space. New hide products from Gus Modern can do just that: The Cowhide Rug, Blythe Pony Ottoman and Patchwork Pony Rug. Saddle up!
I have been covering some modern bathroom fixtures and appliances recently and will continue on my little journey. I have shown some affordable modern faucets:
Brizo
Danze Parma
I have also ventured into the higher-end market with:
Hansgrohe (Axor + Philippe Starck)
Today, I will peer into another mid-high end faucet with some tasty looking design by DORNBRACHT
The Meta Tec
Yota (may the Force be with you)
If anyone has some more suggestions on the affordable to expensive, please let me know. Thx.
By: Holly Becker
You may have heard friends chatting about all the new farmers' markets sprouting in their local hood. If you want to eat healthier and save money while enjoying a festive open air atmosphere, consider hopping on the whole foods bandwagon yourself. Visit a nearby farmers' market this weekend. You can start by visiting Farmers' Market, a website that I'm excited about because it lists most of the markets held in America, by state, including locations in major cities.
You can also visit Local Harvest online to locate more fabulous markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area. In addition, Local Harvest has a virtual farmstand where you can purchase produce, seeds, grass-fed meats, pies, honey, and many other goodies online.
If you aren't into vegetables, don't pass by these markets thinking you'll only find asparagus spears. Most carry fresh flowers, spices, meats, dairy products, soaps, wool, maple syrup, candy and of course, plenty of fresh fruit. Just remember to wash everything you purchase (don't buy an apple and immediately start munching away), make sure that meats and dairy products are packaged well and on ice, and always watch your wallet/handbag because markets can get quite crowded.
Guys: You may want to carry your wallet in a front pocket (never in the back) or in a bag positioned in front of you.
Ladies: Make sure you always keep your handbag zipped and wear it either closely to your side beneath your arm or in front of you. Try to avoid using a bag that is difficult or time consuming to open. I tuck cash in my front pocket and keep my wallet, credit cards, etc. inside of my zipped shoulder bag. That way, I'm not constantly opening and closing my handbag, and I keep my spending in control.
I hope you enjoy your local market this weekend, and remember to refer to these sites when you are on vacation, too. It's a lot of fun to visit markets in other cities as it gives you a unique opportunity to experience and taste local culture.
Enjoy!
Visit Holly Becker's design blog at http://www.decor8.blogspot.com
(images from local harvest )
A well-decorated table can help set the mood of the event. So voila! Some ideas to consider when decorating yours:
There has been little mention of Carl Maston in the world of Southern California architecture given he was lost in the era of Eames and other heavyweights during his time.
But nevertheless, his flair style and innovation was undeniable. He attended USC, served in the Air Force and started his own architect shop after the World War II. He worked on several apartment buildings (National Boulevard and Pandora) and commercial buildings like the famous Valley Ice Skating Center in Tarzana. His College of Environmental Design building at Cal State, Pomona still stands.
Long after his death, he received some accolades for some of his various design projects.
The Hillside House in Los Angeles is one of these beauties. It was built in 1962 for his family.
Please note that this was renovated by Studio .10 architects in 2003.
What's in a window? Looking from the inside out, many seem the same. But it is the attention to details that make all the difference, especially when you are dealing with higher-end property.
The old saying "You get what you pay for" couldn't be more true than with windows. When you are making that decision of which window supplier to go with for the new cabin with the beautiful views, realize that this purchase will determine the sound, viewing and insulation qualities for the lifetime of the house. Isn't it worth it to get the best?
As a little intro, here is one of the premiere suppliers of windows and doors in the world:
LOEWEN
Their glass is thicker than most manufacturers, making the glass more insulated, impact resistant and sound-proof.
They use Douglas Fir as the standard wood species, a naturally tough material, and use a special sealant making it decay resistant and more water repellent.
They also offer a variety of extruded aluminum cladding in many different finishes.
I have been reviewing some various bathroom appliances and fixtures. In the mix, I did a little rundown on a modern spa for the master bedroom:
WETSPA (I still miss it)
Have you ever wanted to feel like you were showering in the rain? Sometimes I do. I do some serious thinking in the shower (too much info?). In any event, to have water fall directly on you rather than hosing you down directly from a shower-head, is a nice feeling.
Take a look at DORNBRACHT and their new RAIN SKY. They even have a little movie for you.
The new Luau Lamp from Vessel came out just in time for Spring. Can be used inside or out - perfect for entertaining. Can be lit while charging and lights automatically when lifted from the base. Luau can be dimmed or turned off to conserve energy when not needed. Bring Luau to your next luau.
By: Holly Becker, decor8
To wallpaper or not to wallpaper, that is the question.
There's seems to be more and more discussions around wallpaper lately as the trend washes over the big US of A. These discussions usually lead to animated ones, sometimes heated and chock full 'o haters speaking out against it. Don't take it from me though, hop on over to any decorating website or blog and start posting about wallpaper and you'll see what I mean. Everyone has an opinion. It's like politics in our country, half on one side, half on the other. So, tell me, why do you cringe at the mention of wallpaper?
If you rent your property, well, I can understand. Your landlord would most likely kill you if you installed it. However, if you own your swanky pad, why the long face when wallpaper is discussed? Hopefully this hatred doesn't stem from the fact that your parents had it and, god knows, we don't want you to grow into them. I'm willing to bet though that it isn't about the actual look of it as much as the removal process. Am I right? I mean, gosh I've scraped wallpaper off many a wall in my career and I certainly wouldn't want to distract you from hours spent surfing the web to engage in something so physical. (Strip tip: Liquid fabric softner mixed with warm water is a miracle worker.)
I know, surprise surprise, but I actually like wallpaper. However, like candy, Oprah, and anything else rich and bold, I like it in doses. I wouldn't paper my ceilings and I certainly can't imagine papering every single room in my house. You'll never talk me into wallpaper that even remotely mimics a theme (nautical, rooster, cowboy) or boasts very large flowers. I also wouldn't paper all four walls in a room unless we're talking a very small entryway, dressing area, walk-in closet, kitchen pantry, mud room or a small bathroom. I think it's fun in a kiddie space, especially some of those new paint-by-numbers prints. The way I see it, they're going to destroy the walls with magic markers anyway. I also envision wallpaper in large adult spaces to, for instance as a focal point on a wall behind a sofa or bed or maybe in the dining room. I never imagine it in a kitchen. That's even a stretch for me.
For those of you that don't think wallpaper is the anti-christ, I've pulled together a list of lovely papers that don't resemble something from a Stepford home and actually may make you reconsider how you feel about it. I'm not hoping to convert you, but it sure would be nice to start seeing home owners consider something other than creamy white walls. Live a little, people.
Flavor Paper - Deliciously beautiful vintage, contemporary, and custom handscreened wallcovering.
Mod Green Pod - Modern vinyl-free wallpaper that's perfect for the eco-conscious.
Mibo - Wallpaper with matching lamps and pillows from the UK. Posh.
Clarissa Hulse - More dreamy paper from the UK with lighting to match.
Jocelyn Warner - Brit papers designed by a fab textile designer turned wallpaper whiz kitten. Love these.
Jenny Wilkinson - Paint by numbers wallpaper that simply rocks. Yup, also UK based.
P van B - Cheeky wallpaper from Berlin with pin-up charm.
Graham + Brown - Wallpaper from funky flowers to understated chic.
Cole + Son - They've papered the walls of homes everywhere since 1875, from Buckingham Palace to the White House. They flock, screen, and print some of the most dazzling wallpaper in the world.
2Jane - Wallpaper by numbers borders that children just love.
Lene Toni Kjeld - Droolworthy wallpaper straight from Denmark.
Wook Kim - Nature-inspired papers from Brooklyn, New York.
Please visit Holly's design blog at http://www.decor8.blogspot.com
(images: top - Flavor Paper. bottom - Jocelyn Warner)
I love the simplicity of the new aluminum Emeco Icon Chair. It is my favorite design from Emecos line so far. Comes in a chair, bar stool or counter stool version. They also come in several brilliant colored powder coat finishes. All Emeco chairs have a lifetime warranty and are super durable.
I admit it...I am that guy at the mall who is hogging the massage chair at Brookstone or Sharper Image. Luckily, I am rarely there.
The thing is, I can't ever get myself to buy one...they are so...80's? Lazy-boy? Sky Mall?
Luckily, modern design has caught up with massage technology.
Check out the Marais Day Bed by Molteni.
The Marais has a internal mechanism operated by remote control that produces a gentle vibration to massage the whole body or specific parts of it. The base always has a shiny aluminum finish. The covers in fabric or leather are fully removable.
Want to tap into a seemingly endless pool of some of the best emerging designers in the World? Bernhardt does. They are a large furniture powerhouse that keeps their eyes on the prize and the hand on the pulse through sponsoring design competitions and the top schools in the world.
They run events like the ICFF/Bernhardt Design ICFF Studio competition, soliciting prototypes from emerging designers. Essentially a who's who of manufacturers will be there and I imagine Bernhardt will have first crack at the cream of the crop.
They also run Bernhardt Design Press which shows off the collaboration between education and business. For example, see the Art Center College of Design. You will find Emi Fujita.
You will also see her work on the Bernhardt site. Nice business model!
Check out the Bio...talk about a super talent in the making:
Born and raised in Japan, Emi Fujita ventured out into the world when she was only sixteen to attend TASIS, The American School in Switzerland. Realizing that she wanted to pursue her artistic side more seriously, Fujita transferred to the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan where she concentrated on the study of painting and sculpture. As an Interlochen student, she received the prestigious Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation award. After graduation, she attended Maryland Institute, College of Art, majoring in fine art before transferring to study environmental design at Art Center College of Design as a recipient of the General Motors scholarship.
Fujita’s artistic talents became apparent at the early age of seven as she became skilled in the art of calligraphy. Throughout the next decade, she won numerous calligraphic competitions including the noted Yomiuri Newspaper award. Fujita’s designs continue to be influenced by her cultural aesthetics, as well as the inspiration of Japanese sculptor Isamu Noguchi. In the same manner, she strives to achieve sculptural quality in her work while creating furniture and environments that transcend international boundaries.
I have become kind of obsessed with bathroom fixtures lately. Originally, I gave a little rundown on some well-designed and very affordable modern faucets:
Of course, some people came out of the woodwork to show off the higher end fixtures that are beautiful. The price is justified (by some) that the fixtures will last a long time...so deal with it! Haha, well...you decide.
Recently Axor (part of Hansgrohe) teamed up with (you guessed it) Philippe Starck to create some wonderful looking designs:
Look at $1k + per fixture. While you are at it, take a look-see at the Starck Bathroom website:
http://www.starck-bath.com/starckbad_content.html
Very beautiful designs and imagery.
Forgive me, but I wasn't all that familiar with Poltrona Frau. Even though they have been around for almost 100 years. Sorry! There is a lot going on here.
I was in Soho cruising around and popped into their store (145 Wooster St.) and was very impressed. To be completely honest, I thought it was an Austrian or German designer (I know, I am sure I sound like an idiot to design heavies, but it is the truth). Poltrona Frau isn't exactly an Italian name.
Go to their site and view the timeline, what a history.
You can also see some fun facts:
130 shades of leather.
100,000 people sit in their theater chairs every night around the world (err...where are these theaters? that has to be comfy!).
They produce about 150,000 pieces of furniture per year.
We recently had the pleasure of attending CraftBoston at the World Trade Center in Boston, MA. Produced by the Society of Arts and Crafts, America's oldest non-profit craft organization incorporated in 1897, CraftBoston is a premiere New England exhibition and sale of one-of-a-kind contemporary crafts from 175 artists from all over the world. There wasn't a crocheted i-pod case or handmade greeting card to be found, this was truly an upscale haven for exploring unique wares that you will not spot in your typical gift emporium.
Part museum, part retail space, this was my first time visiting CraftBoston so I wasn't sure what to expect until I started exploring the many booths and chatting with the volunteers and artists. We met artists from as far away as Denmark to Boston and New Hampshire locals. On the surface, the show was very laid back and ho-hum. Not a lot of buzz in the air, very reserved. However, once we took the time to linger at the various booths, speaking with the talents behind the splendid wares, the learning process, followed by immense appreciation, took hold of us and the show really came alive. When visiting a small show like this, I highly suggest walking the entire floor first to get an overview of everything that is out there. There are two advantages of gaining a brief birds eye perspective. First, since this particular show is a cash and carry event, meaning that you can purchase items and leave the show with them (unlike most gift shows), you want to make sure you see everything before making a purchase. The next advantage, at least to me, is that once you see everything, you know exactly which booths you want to spend time in, meeting the artist and learning more about their inspiration and processes. Always approach a show with a plan of action, that way, you won't leave frustrated and exhausted, rather refreshed and inspired instead.
During our visit to CraftBoston, I hand-picked a few of my favorite artists and designers listed with links below.
Outside of the World Trade Center, Boston
You want the first impression that a guest gets when they come to your home to be welcoming. The entryway is the first area a guest sees when they visit. There are some easy tips to make this space inviting, warm and functional.
Start by approaching your home. Is the path lighted and easily walked? Is there foliage in the way of the path - overgrown trees or bushes. Can you easily find the door and doorbell? Once you enter the door, how does the space feel? Too cold or too warm? Small or too large? Dark or bright? Once you understand the feelings that YOU have when you enter your home, you can focus on the details.
Picture yourself as the guest. They may be entering the space with a purse or a bottle of wine. They possibly may have muddy or wet shoes. Make room for all these possibilities. A small bench or seat in the entry is great for guests to have a comfortable place to sit and remove their shoes. A small table or console is great to set a purse, flowers or keys. A dark colored area rug is a cozy welcomer to guests who have removed their shoes and does not show dirt as much as a light colored rug. Purchase an umbrella stand, so guests have a place to stow their wet umbrellas.
A dimly lit entry is not welcoming. Replace light bulbs with a higher wattage bulb. My entry had the opposite feeling when I entered the entry - it had a bright florescent bulb. I replaced the florescent tube with a "warm light" tube instead of cool and the entry has a soft glow now. Install a dimmer to change the mood of the entry at will. A scented candle is also a great source of soft light and gives off a welcoming aroma.
Entryways can sometimes attract clutter - keys, mail, coats. Make sure to have closed storage available and designate certain areas for these things. If the entry has a closet, make sure the closet is cleared for hanging coats. If you have room for closed storage, this is a great place to have a drawer for keys, cell phones and mail.
Thank you for the suggestion on some Plasma TV ambient art.
Previously, I had discussed: COLORCALM though now I will review a couple more:
First off: PRESSTUBE
You can view the sample of "Davey Jones Locker". It is very cool, well composed and interesting background music. You could watch it and be interested or have it meld in the background at a party.
Next up is: PLASMAWINDOW
Sorry (no screenshots available). From their site, it looks like there are some that are good (like ElliotGrey and Plasmaquarium). Though there are some cheesy ones too...but that goes with the territory.
If there are any more suggestions, please let me know. Actually I am a bit surprised that there aren't more artists producing modern visuals for dormant plasma screens.
When I had to replace the faucets in my bathroom, I thought I was doomed. It was either cheap, ugly stuff (not an option) or very expensive, better designed stuff. Problem is, all bathroom sinks had the same fixtures from the mid 80's. So that meant replacing several.
Little did I know, bathroom fixtures have really improved recently. I sniffed around and found several in the sub $200 range that were very attractive, well made and simple.
Brizo Faucet #7
If anyone has other suggestions, please let me know.
Thanks!
I had a recent visit to LIMN, a modern furniture store in San Francisco.
Business must be good. They recently purchased some additional space and are expanding their showroom. It is a worthwhile visit to any modern furniture fan in San Francisco.
Their site is entertaining as well, for those who can't make it in. My favorite link there is the ALMANAC.
An interesting maze of fact, fiction and design.
Like:
10% of Americans say they have communicated with Satan.
