Design Mind

SES Design Jewelry

2011-12-31T17:41:00.002-05:00

SES Design Jewelry

Graham and Brown Subtle Wallpapers

2011-12-26T11:13:00.000-05:00

At Design Public

IDEA International Modern Watches

2011-12-25T10:55:00.001-05:00

At Design Public

Modern Christmas Decorating

2011-11-25T13:05:00.001-05:00

One of the joys of modern Christmas decorating is you can go full on or minimal. You can think outside the box and use unique color pallets or go bold with lots of red in non-traditional elements. Go white for minimal or silver and blue for elegant, multi-holiday celebrating. Most of all, you can have fun drawing inspiration from unusual places. Photos via Home Klondike.

Blue Ant Studio on Sale at FAB

2011-11-22T11:27:00.001-05:00

Prints from Blue Ant Studio on sale for a limited time at FAB.

Modern Etsy

2011-11-18T10:04:00.001-05:00

Star Sculptures By John Kostick

2011-11-10T15:10:00.000-05:00

These delightful Star Sculptures are the work of John Kostick. "The abstract lines that define geometric forms are indicated by actual physical parts that interact synergetically," says the designer. "Thus symmetry and structural integrity are the results of the assemblage of simple linear components, tension and compression, push and pull." See link above or Design Within Reach

Handmade Home at Gilt Group

2011-11-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Global Views

Arterior Homes

Tina Frey

Arterior Homes

Alice Goldsmith

Cyan

For a short time only, Gilt Group is featuring handmade decorating accessories for the home. Once the sale is over you can google the maker to find them. Enjoy.

Superstar Tree, Modern Christmas and Hanukkah

2011-11-08T14:12:00.003-05:00

A great alternative to the messy and wasteful Christmas tree is the Superstar Holiday Tree. Easy to assemble and store, this stylish design can even function as a Hanukkah decoration with it's Star of David shape. Modernica

Tcherassi Hotel and Spa, Cartagena

2011-11-08T08:10:00.000-05:00

Set in a restored 250 year old mansion, Tcherassi Hotel and Spa is the creation of fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi. Boasting seven unique rooms and suites, four pools, an Italian restaurant and a spa, the space is a mix of glitz and simplicity, colonial charm and contemporary design. Photos: Tcherassi Hotel & Spa.

Jamie Hayon Vases

2011-11-07T12:43:00.000-05:00

BD Barcelona, Vases by Jamie Hayon.

Modular Menorahs

2011-11-07T09:37:00.000-05:00

The father-and-son designers, Avner and Avia Agayof have created modern, modular menorahs for your holiday enjoyment. There Judaica designs are highly collectable and inventive. These puzzle-like menorahs function like modular buildings or toys and just beg to be played with. At: Module R.

Key Finder, or Sunglasses or Phone...

2011-11-07T09:14:00.003-05:00

I'm always misplacing my keys, sunglasses and phone. This is a sleekly designed resolution to my problem. You decide what it is you need to find and slip a dot on it. Then, you find it. Great technology to improve daily life that looks good too. Isn't that what design should be all about? Finder via Yanko.

Modernist Jewelry - Stands The Test of Time

2011-11-06T07:11:00.000-05:00

Auerbach & Maffia has been a premier dealer in modernist jewelry and 20th century art and design since 1972. Their collection is vast and has a range of pricing. What I adore about this work is that you don't have to be a collector of modernist jewelry to love it and wear it. It stand the test of time, and is as fashionable today as the day it was crafted. Please visit their website to see more of these treasures. Photo copyright - Auerbach & Maffia

SES Design Jewelry, Modern & Organic Design

2011-11-05T11:55:00.000-04:00

Modern Christmas From West Elm

2011-11-05T11:48:00.000-04:00

Florida Modern Design

2011-11-03T09:39:00.002-04:00

Older Florida homes often lend themselves to a more modern esthetic. The glass sliding doors, tile or terrazzo flooring and low wide room dimensions, all give the feel of the era in which these homes were built. Add some mid-century modern and contemporary furnishings and you've got the perfect modernist home with little to no construction cost. This is the sunroom in my Florida hame. We replaced the spanish tile with slate, but other than that, no new construction has been done to this space. If you own an older Florida home and want a modernist look, see if your home already has the bones to easily achieve this. Send pictures of your modern Florida home to feature on Design Mind to sesdesign2004@yahoo.com.

Arteriors, Lighting to Love

2011-10-28T08:53:00.000-04:00

Arteriors lighting by Laura Kirar

SES Design Jewelry on Facebook

2011-10-21T12:21:00.002-04:00

I'm pleased to announce SES Design Jewelry has been socially networked. It's official. There is now a SES Design Jewelry page on Facebook. Visit the Facebook page for a pictorial history and access to purchasing information. Like the page for periodic SES Design Jewelry updates or subscribe to a monthly email newsletter. The new SES Design Jewelry web site is in process and will be up and running for purchases well before the holidays, so stay tuned, and thank you for your support!

Design Hotel, Sezz Saint Tropez

2011-10-18T23:16:00.000-04:00

Hotel Sezz Saint Tropez from Shahe Kalaidjian, architect Jean-Jacques Ory and designer Christophe Pillet offers it's guests isolation from the rest of Saint Tropez, instant beach access and your own personal assistant. But of equal importance is it's modern, clean lined interpretation of the beach resort. Without a hint of pretension, the spaces look comfortable, and casual with a sleek elegance.

Twig Terrariums

2011-10-17T15:32:00.000-04:00

As a child, I made terrariums as gifts for people. With my limited childhood funds, it was a wonderful way to give a beautiful, lasting gift that was always appreciated. In recent years terrariums have had a resurgence, and the results have been wonderful. These Twig Terrariums, from the Brooklyn based company, have playful figurines of a swimmer, sculptor, wedding couple, painter at his easel as well as others. They are a delight to gaze at and easy to care for. Photos from Fab and Twig Terrariums.

TIKKR Watches - Customize Your Timepiece

2011-10-09T11:35:00.000-04:00

With TIKKR it’s now possible to be fashionable without being late. The sporty, durable and clean-designed watches in these kits come with 3 different bands—so you can customize according to your many moods and fashion choices! Photos from Fab.com

Miami Design District - My Little Purchase

2011-10-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

With so many wonderful shops and galleries in the Miami Design District, it's easy to drop some serious cash. I was quite good, though. My single purchase consisted of this lovely Scandinavian Retro Kitchen Jar, designed by Lotta Odelius. Pictured are other pieces from this line as well as other lines by her.

Miami Design District, Jeff Jones Lighting at NOW

2011-10-07T12:14:00.001-04:00

Now, A Style Store, is a great find in Miami's Design District. They carry a mix of products from lighting, to furniture, to pottery... One designer of note is Jeff Jones, whose lighting uses a mix of industrial and organic materials to create a nice juxtaposition. Wood, concrete, iron, steel, electrical cords, in a variety of colors, and found objects create interesting designs that you can modify, with the designer, to meet your needs. They are a refreshing change from the often seen, mass produced and spare lighting in many design stores these days.

Steve Jobs Dies at 56

2011-10-06T11:06:00.003-04:00

I woke to the headlines today. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc. died yesterday. For technology and innovative design, this is a sad day. Jobs is the reason for the personal computer not to mention technologies that know one else could imagine. After being pushed out of Apple in 1985, he started another company. It was there that the personal computer was perfected, and as Apple began to slide, it became clear that Jobs had to be brought back. It was all uphill from there. This visionary COE was the force behind the iPod, iPhone and iPad. The theme, create technology that people don't even know they need! No one did it better than Apple with the hands on leadership of Jobs. The hip, stylized marketing and the Apple store were also highly innovative ideas. Jobs took on the sheer force of the tech industry and the other computer guy... and succeeded. In August, two months after his public appearance at the Apple Convention, Jobs stepped down as CEO. The message was clear; the end was near. I honor Mr. Jobs today. He is one of my heroes. His achievements, innovation and ingenuity were inspiring, but even more so was his enthusiastic energy and love of what he was doing. I found it contagious. I hope that this company will be able to continue their amazing work without Steve, but either way, it is a sad day, and he will be missed by many.

Luxe Plates For iPhone

2011-10-05T21:17:00.001-04:00

I love these designs! These are stainless steel plates that attach to the back of your iPhone for a very unique look. Check out more designs at Luxe Plate or design your own and they will make it for you!

Miami Design District - Marni Fall 2011

2011-10-05T11:27:00.000-04:00

I just returned from Miami and was so happy to see the expansion of the Design District since my last trip several years ago. If you are planning a trip to Miami, the Design District is a must see. I will be featuring some shops, designers and items that caught my eye on this visit for the next week. But today is fashion, I'm a huge fan of Marni, and the shop was lovely. So was Pia, the sweet, young woman who waited on me. No haute couture attitude here. She was as approachable as the designs, and happy to share information whether she sensed a sale or not. As for the clothing, jewelry, shoes and bags... to die for. A great mix of texture, interesting drape, color and pattern, both geometric and contemporary floral. Coats in quilted down, shearling and wool were wonderful. Chunky jewelry in horn, wood and acrylic were high impact but comfortable to wear. The shoes... sculptural works of art and funky fun. I can't say enough about this line. You really have to see it, feel it and try it on to fully appreciate it.

Tilt-shift Photography, You Can Too

2011-10-03T17:56:00.000-04:00

Above - A trial of Tilt-shift Maker on a photo of mine.

When I was studying photography for my BFA, I had never heard of tilt-shift photography. Since then I have come to love the look that one gets with this technique. This term refers to a narrowing of the depth of field in a photo. In layperson terms, this means narrowing the area or range of focus in a photo. In most landscape photos, a camera provides a long range, from the front of the image back, of focus. When you narrow down what's in focus to only a small part of the landscape, you getting the amazing effects in the photos above. This narrow range of focus simulates photos of miniature scenes or models. Using the camera to create these types of images involves two adjustments with a special lens, but this affect can be simulated digitally to images you've already taken. If you have Photoshop to manipulate your photos you can follow a tutorial. If you don't have Photoshop, just visit Tilt-shiftmaker.com, and begin experimenting with your photos. It's wonderfully fun. Tilt-shift away and enjoy!

Wooden Tables with Character

2011-09-27T14:45:00.000-04:00

These are just a few of Pfeifer Studio's wood side table designs. They pride themselves on earth friendly products that are produced under Fair Trade conditions. Visit their website for information and more designs.

CraftedSystems, Doing Good with Design

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

CraftedSystems, of Portland Oregon, has combined the art of handcrafted felt weaving with skill development and economic empowerment for women. In partnership with the YMCA women's shelter, CraftedSystems produces innovative designs in felt. Interlocking, geometric wool pieces are transformed into vessels, wall art, floor coverings, lighting and table accessories in an environment that encourages collaborative and communal work. This ecological and people friendly company is the creation of designer Aurelie Tu. For more information on this inspiring use of design and craft or to purchase products, visit CraftedSystems.

Pan Am Today!

2011-09-25T14:17:00.003-04:00

As a child, I flew on Pan Am several times. Those where the days when just getting on an airplane was an exciting event, and Pan Am made it even better. Children where often given Pan Am wings to wear and a Pan Am deck of cards to occupy them during the flight. You couldn't walk through an airport without spotting the Pan Am blue bags. They brought a new style to the air that is making a comeback in the new CBS series "Pan Am" scheduled to start tonight. You can own your own piece of this nostalgia in reissues of Pan Am products. Photos from panam.com.

Starchitects on Parade

2011-09-25T13:16:00.002-04:00

Today's NY Times Style Magazine features the art and architecture of Chateau La Coste, outside of Aix-en- Provence. This 600 acre space features the work of Frank Gehry, Richard Serra, Tado Ando and Louise Bourgeois with additional work by Oscar Niemeyer, Norman Foster and Renzo Piano to come. Photos from NY Times and Chateau La Coste. See NY Times and Chateau La Coste sites for more information.

Minigarden

2011-09-24T12:36:00.000-04:00

Garden any time of year and anywhere with Minigarden. Use them outside in warm weather or inside year round. This gardening system not only provides food and herbs, a composting option and great thermal insulation to you home, it looks amazing.

Modern Jewelry, SES Design

2011-09-23T15:41:00.000-04:00

SES Design Jewelry - Clean lines and simple forms have been my focus in design lately. These are just a few of my new pieces. As I photograph other work I will be posting it here, so please check back soon. Feature SES - Purchase

Clean & Sleek, By David Weeks

2011-09-23T13:52:00.003-04:00

David Weeks designs lighting in sublime, modern forms. The minimal and sleek look of his lighting designs are perfect for private or public spaces. A graduate of Rhode Island School of Design, he formed David Weeks Studio in 1996 in the wonderful DUMBO section of Brooklyn. He uses his background in sculpture to create clean lined perfection. Photos from David Weeks Studio web site include the following credits: Magdalena Keck Interior Design/photo by Jeff Cate, Chris Choy Design, Rees Roberts & Partners LLC.

Welcome Evelyn Taylor Design

2011-08-17T19:06:00.000-04:00

Thank you for your support of Design Mind.

Modern Birds

2011-08-17T12:06:00.000-04:00

Fall is coming and the birds will be migrating. Here are some stylish ways to get them to stop by your house on the way. Via mod livin' and CB2

New Ring - SES Design

2011-08-16T18:24:00.000-04:00

Who says insomnia is all bad. It depends on how you use the extra time.

The Sculpture of Catherine Willis

2011-08-06T04:00:00.000-04:00

Catherine Willis

Arroyo, Sustainable Wood Products

2011-08-05T11:36:00.007-04:00

The building blocks of sustainable home accessories, that's how I like to think of Arroyo products. They have a natural simplicity that is refreshing and can add a richness to a home interior of any style. The Arroyo Collection, available at Amenity, is made by hand using FSC-Certified walnut.

Fab Shopping

2011-08-03T11:52:00.003-04:00

Some of you may not know about online sale shopping memberships, but some of you may know them all to well. It can be a bit overwhelming when you are a member of several. The emails come daily, offering sales on some amazing merchandise, and keeping up can become an obsession. Well, for the hipster or lover of modern design there is Fab. Fab's stock is smaller than most, which I find manageable. It is sometimes from small companies or individual artists and designers that you may not have seen before. One more plus, I don't get daily emails from Fab! So join and enjoy...

A few words of advice regarding membership sale sites, check the return policy, check the shipping rates, don't be to tempted to by something just because it's a great deal, and do a quick web search before you buy because you just might find a better deal.

Modern Shelving... A Constant Search

2011-08-01T16:18:00.003-04:00

Modern shelving is an obsession of mine lately; one of many. We have an ever evolving pottery and object collection and a desire to mix it up often. Shelving that can easily accommodate that is not easy to come by. Here are a few of my latest finds at DWR. In truth, have a design in my head and would love to have it constructed. I want a system where varying width shelves float out from their supports and can easily be removed and arranged in a multitude of ways. Any thoughts?

Gilt Group Guilt Free

2011-06-01T16:41:00.005-04:00

Head on over to Gilt Group today and check out some of these fun items. The best things about Gilt, everything is on sale, there's something for every budget and every style, and there's new stuff every day! Guilt free.

Collecting Vintage Dansk Brown Flamestone

2011-06-01T08:48:00.004-04:00

I have had the unfortunate experience of moving three times in the past year and a half. It is a great deal of work, and I find that each time I disposed of more of my personal possessions in an effort to streamline the process. This can be very liberating, pairing down to the essentials of what you most love. But the sad thing is when you somehow loose things that are dear to you. Well today I replaced several items that had gone missing and at a great discount. I paid about a third of what I originally paid for these Dansk Brown Flamestone pieces on Ebay. I hope their in as good of shape as my old ones. Designed by Jens Quistgaard. Note: Dansk has rereleased some of these pieces so make sure you're getting what you think you're getting.

Modern Planters

2011-05-25T14:13:00.012-04:00

WEST ELM Planter
MENU Planter
AUTHENTICS Planters Via Made in Design

WALLTER Planters

SOLUS Planter/Fire Pit Via Pure Contemporary
POD Planter

My recent planter purchase. It was a one off on sale at a locale store. $13

Crosby Street Hotel, New York

2010-07-04T16:09:00.004-04:00

Spending a lovely weekend in New York at the Crosby Street Hotel. Owned by the Firmdale Hotel chain, a London based group, this New York venture has a distinctly British charm and a fabulous SoHo location. In addition to wonderfully appointed rooms the guest drawing room and courtyard are full of stunning art and lush gardening. The service is great and the concierge is a gem. A must visit! Above, photos from website and the author.

Crack Bowl Pendant Lamp

2010-06-30T19:59:00.002-04:00

I love the Crack Bowl Pendant Lamps designed by Kwon Jae Min. These lamps are a celebration of wood, splits and all. From 3 Ring.

Contemporary Swim Wear

2010-06-24T08:55:00.010-04:00

Swim wear is a not so pleasant topic for many women for obvious reasons. I take a simple approach. Clean, modern lines are flattering to everyone and timeless. In fact some of my favorite swim suits are 10 years old or older. Here are just a few that have caught my attention this year. Enjoy and cut yourself some gentle slack. Click image for link.

Back to Basics, SES Design Jewelry

2010-06-22T12:35:00.003-04:00

After a big move and a search for new studio space, I am unpacked and starting back to work. It's a modest start but I happy to be back to basics. Work available on line.

Space Of Tape

2010-06-21T22:37:00.003-04:00

Via Crib Candy, I saw this story and was completely taken with it. An installation space made of clear adhesive tape stretched and wrapped between a scaffolding grid. The interior space is an amazing cocoon. By For Use/Numen.

The Bardessono Hotel

2010-06-21T13:03:00.005-04:00

As summer heat and humidity escalate in my part of the world, summer travel absorbs a good deal of my thoughts. I plan to share more images and information during my future travels with you. Until then I will return to last summer and the amazing Bardessono Hotel in Yountville California. It is the perfect blend on modern meets earthy with truly innovative approaches to green design. Don't just take my word for it though. Go visit the web site and learn more about it's designers and the man behind it's creation! Most of all... STAY HERE... if you can. You won't forget this trip. Enjoy.

New Design For The Office Cubicle

2010-06-20T16:07:00.003-04:00

Here is a creative and highly unique redesign of the office cubicle. The Igloo may not lend itself to fitting lots of workers in a grid but it's smart looking and the ribs of it's structure give you lots of storage space. Leave space where you want openings and fill up where you want privacy. From Core.

Setting A Modern Table

2010-06-16T07:14:00.003-04:00

If you love clean lines and graceful design look to china and flatware from the mid-century for inspiration. Pott 86 Silver Flatware originally designed by Josef Hoffman in 1955 and Rosenthal Studio Line TAC dinnerware and tea set originally designed by Walter Gropius in 1969. From R Gallery, 20th Century.

I Pod, What's you're perfect cover up?

2010-06-14T10:19:00.011-04:00

Bubble

Portel

Macware Eco-Envi

Whanganui Case

E-volve reversable

Julie Boyels

Hello! I know it has been a long time since I've posted but I'm back after some intense life changes. Since I was not posting during the wonderous event of the release of the iPad, I have to treat it like the old news that it is. But I wanted my first post to be related to my favorite technology.... Apple. Since I love my iPad and need a case for it what better place to start.

Choosing a cover for your iPad is a very personal thing. In addition to superb design it needs to be based on the function you're looking for in the cover or case. Is it an outer-skin so when you put it in your bag it doesn't scratch or is it a carry case with pockets, strap or handles? Form with your choice of function. So I included some interesting options for a variety of uses. Enjoy!

For The Bedroom

2009-10-12T18:50:00.002-04:00

I like the look of these pieces for the new bedroom. They have a vintage modern style and are flexible in design that you can use a variety of other styles mixed in. From the Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams collection.

Bedroom, Modern Soft

2009-10-11T11:44:00.008-04:00

I've been looking for ways to redo the bedroom in a modern style, but one that still feels warm and cozy. These are some nice designs that fit that theme. They come from different searches at Flickr and on Goggle. Notice the softer lines, use of fabric and color and mix of styles.

Kjoo Jewelry

2009-09-30T11:44:00.003-04:00

This is some of the most interesting textile jewelry I've seen in a long time. Talk about art!!!

Wood Napkin Rings

2009-09-30T00:21:00.002-04:00

These wooden napkin rings have a great look and an even better price tag. They are on sale at Virve. Get them while you can.

Modern Kitchen

2009-09-26T10:44:00.000-04:00

After spending months designing a new modern bathroom, construction is underway. Now it's time to think about a new kitchen and this is where I'm starting. Love the sleek look and the combination of wood, steel white.

White Metal Jewelry

2009-09-25T07:07:00.001-04:00

Sleek and contemporary design, crafted to perfection, is what you will find at White Metal Jewelry. Visit the site for more amazing finds.

Studio Lilica

2009-09-24T10:17:00.000-04:00

Studio Lilica creates beautiful forms in light.

2009-09-23T09:24:00.001-04:00

The sleek Winepocket stores flat and then expands to fit most bottles. The opening also functions as a handle, and will make you look both stylish and green at the wine store or your next dinner party.

Featured on Etsy Lounge

2009-09-22T11:05:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Etsy Lounge for featuring this piece of mine. What a great blog.

Vintage Fabric Coasters

2009-09-22T09:19:00.001-04:00

Inspired by vintage fabrics and organic forms in nature, Simrin creates standout prints in complementary colors perfect for mixing or matching. This set of four coasters is made at a family-owned facility in New York City where custom printed fabrics are specially laminated in sheets of plastic and finished by hand.

Wooden Mobiles

2009-09-21T21:12:00.003-04:00

These are fun and beautifully designed mobiles from Petit Collage. For child or adult enjoyment!

PopMats! Recycled Paper Placemats

2009-07-05T14:20:00.003-04:00

How cool are these. Such a simple idea but they look great. Recycled paper place mats that have pop-up designs. Check out Delight for more options.

Valencia Lamp

2009-07-02T16:16:00.003-04:00

Mid-century-inspired Valencia screen lamp, with sturdy wood frame and light diffusing paper walls. Hang it from the ceiling with a Cord Kit, or set it up on the floor or a table for 1950s flare anywhere! On sale now at Urban Outfitters.

Chikuno Cube Bamboo Air Freshener

2009-05-17T13:52:00.003-04:00

Chikuno Cube is an air freshener made from ultra fine powder of bamboo charcoal and clay minerals. They can be used for one year making them a great affordable find.

Modern Backyard Birds

2009-05-07T13:26:00.004-04:00

Eva Solo has a sleek and interestingly designed group of items for your backyard to attract birds. Don't settle for the norm when it comes to birdbaths, birdhouses and feeders when these modern designs are available.

Modern Pet Accessories

2009-05-07T13:18:00.005-04:00

Bobby Berk Home offers a nice collection of pet accessories for the modern dog or cat. Here are just a few including a pet stroller, bed and pet bowl. See their web site for more.

Dyning Outdoor Bench

2009-05-06T13:41:00.002-04:00

The Dyning Outdoor Bench brings natural wood elements to a modern sculptural level. The fluid curves remind one of the flow of water creating a simple yet elegant form for outdoor seating.

Land Ho! By Nola

2009-05-06T13:32:00.003-04:00

Inside or outside, the Land Ho planter bench is a great edition to any space. This modern design is sleek and bright and provides not only seating space but space to grow anything you want, flowers, a tree or vegetables. Very cool.

Mid-Century Modern By Florence Knoll

2009-05-05T15:01:00.006-04:00

Florence Knoll was an American architect and furniture designer who studied under the likes of Mies van der Rohe and Eero Saarinen. In 1943 she joined with her husband Hans Knoll in redirecting Hans's furniture company more toward a modernist, Scandinavian style. Her American interpretation of minimalist, rationalist design theories is clearly evident in Knoll's storage pieces. She mixed woods and metals to great effect and added laminates as they became popular. In the 1950's Florence Knoll's work was often displayed at the Museum of Modern Art's "Good Design" exhibits. Although Knoll did a great deal of residential work, the International Style she worked in was specially in successful corporate offices. Knoll's vision for the new office was clean and uncluttered, and the corporate boom of the 1960's provided the perfect opportunity for her to change the way people looked at work in their offices. Florence Knoll was in charge of Knoll International, a leading American furniture design company, from 1953 to 1965.

Medallion Skirt

2009-05-03T13:01:00.004-04:00

I don't do a lot of fashion posts on Design Mind, but I had to share this with you. I saw this skirt in Target and fell in love with it. When I got home I tried it on and it look spectacular. I wore it to a party last night and got more compliments than I have in years. For $25 this modern design is an amazing find.

Tina Roeder White Billion Chairs

2009-04-30T13:34:00.007-04:00

This is a very cool idea! Tina Roeder has taken the obligatory white outdoor chair and turned it into an original with nothing more than a Dremel and a drill bit. See Appel Design for more images.

Before And After Outdoor Space

2009-04-29T22:07:00.006-04:00

The bones were there but Landscape architect Sasha Tarnopolsky removed a small lap pool, which was located just a few feet from the back door, and in its place installed a simple concrete patio that acts as an extension of the dining and living areas. She added a concrete bench at the end of the patio to provide built-in seating and placed a discreet water feature nearby (water bubbles up through gravel from a cistern hidden below). Tarnopolsky filled most of the remaining space with lawn, providing a soft contrast to the hard geometry of the concrete forms. The rest of the landscaping consists of simple, low-maintenance plants. From My Home Ideas.

Ladder Earrings

2009-04-28T13:23:00.002-04:00

From Mujoyas on Etsy come these simple yet stunning Ladder Earrings. She more of this designers work at her shop.

The Modern Warehouse

2009-04-27T21:47:00.005-04:00

Some very nice mid-century modern finds.

Organic Wasp and Bee Trap

2009-04-25T09:03:00.000-04:00

I've been looking for a non-toxic way to deal with wasps and bees in my outdoor space and I've found this smartly designed organic bee and wasp trap. Now I know these insects do so much for the world of nature, but their encroachment on my outdoor sitting area is making it hard to use, and I don't want to go around spraying bug killer. Here's a stunning option designed by Pernille Vea for Menu.

Outdoor Luxury Furniture

2009-04-24T11:37:00.005-04:00

If you're looking for fabulous luxury and modern design in your outdoor furniture here are some wonderful options. The price is not low but they wear so well you'll have them for years to come. My low-priced wooden lounger that I bought last summer already looks like it's taken a beating. Not a good investment! See the Babmar site for all sorts of other options.

Vintage Modern Ceramics

2009-04-23T10:45:00.000-04:00

When adding the finishing touches to a space why not go with some striking vintage modern ceramics. These highly collectible pieces can be found at affordable prices if you look around and can increase greatly in value over time. Most importantly, they are so unique that your space won't look like everyone else's. Why go to your locale chain store for home accessories when you can get so much more with vintage. From Hi and Lo Modern.

The Magic Cube From Yomei

2009-04-22T12:15:00.002-04:00

The Magic Cube, designed by André Schelbach for Yomei, is a great addition to space saving furniture design. Show here it's used as a computing station but it's multi functional and can be used for many purposes. For more information see the article at 3 Rings.

Great Outdoor Space

2009-03-10T15:35:00.002-04:00

Designed by architect Brad Zizmor, this is a wonderful outdoor space in a New York apartment on the Upper West Side. See Dwell for more details on the redo.

The Redesigned MacBook

2009-02-18T10:24:00.005-05:00

Well, my Mac Powerbook that I love beyond limits was dropped (not by me) and is no longer working. This explains my lack of posting this week. I'm waiting to see if five years worth of work can be extracted from the hard drive but in the meantime I came across the newly designed MacBook. It's unibody construction is a new design for Mac and I have to say it not only looks great but is very light. It has a back lit glass screen for great visuals and the multi-touch trackpad instead of the button mouse pad. If you happen to be near a Mac store stop in and give it a spin. In the mean time, I'm saving my pennies.

Class Table Lamp

2009-02-13T10:57:00.000-05:00

The Class Table Lamp is made of layers of blown glass for a minimal look with a cool texture. Its name says it all.

The Tongue Armchair

2009-02-12T09:51:00.000-05:00

Sagen Ceramics

2009-02-11T13:31:00.004-05:00

I love these designs that focus on multiples of a theme. Created by Sagen Ceramics, a new company with a long manufacturing tradition of ceramics and located in the Valencia Province. Tradition is combined with fresh ideas from young designers to create this line.

The Hive And Coral Table Bench

2009-02-10T10:31:00.000-05:00

These amazing coral and hive tables will be the envy of anyone who enters your living room or back patio. It makes a beautiful coffee table of can be placed outside as an unique bench. Made from powder coated steel and cut with precise lasers its strength is paired with a contemporary elegance that is unparalleled.

Pine Tea Towels

2009-02-09T09:22:00.000-05:00

Combine these Pine Tea Towels from Ferm Living kitchen towels for a color explosion in your modern kitchen. Made with organic cotton fiber and comes in gift box made out of 100% recyclable paper.

Travelmate Portable Fireplace

2009-02-08T09:08:00.000-05:00

The Travelmate Portable Ventless Fireplace by Studio Vertijet for Conmoto Germany burns clean & smokeless on bio-ethanol liquid fuel. No complications - can be set on the carpet, dining table, patio or in the garden - enjoy the atmosphere anywhere. The stylized suitcase design is unmistakable, made with black powder-coated galvanized steel and glass with adjustable steel fuel-holder. Glass pane held on with magnets, easily remove to light the fire.

O Vases

2009-02-07T09:04:00.000-05:00

The O Vases are handmade and glazed in California. Mix and match colors or use one line to accent a room, either option will add a level of modern feel to every room. They run an affordable $38 to $48 dollars each.

Aerial Mobileo

2009-02-06T09:54:00.002-05:00

This oversized stainless steel mobile is a constantly changing work of art as the polished steel panels catch the breeze. It spans 60" wide by 36" tall and costs only $174. Amazing!

Guest Blogger, Kelly Kilpatrick

2009-02-01T13:19:00.008-05:00

Frank Lloyd Wright

George Nelson

Eames Design

Noguchi Lamps

Bauhaus Design

New Modern

Modern Furniture Design – A Brief History

Near the end of the nineteenth century, many changes were transpiring the world over. Social change, new inventions, and new philosophies helped pave the way for innovations in many different fields, among them furniture design. These new methods would take a while to come to fruition, more specifically in the Bauhaus Schools in Germany during the 1920’s.

Previously, furniture design in the West consisted of using deep, dark woods, extravagant fabrics, and heavy ornamentation in order to suggest longevity, durability, and lineage. These aesthetic values reflected what was revered by a worldview that many people in the West no longer shared.

Traditional furniture design placed emphasis on lineage and durability, which were seen by modernists as antiquated views that reinforced hierarchical values of past monarchies, not the people who actually used the pieces on a daily basis.

Modern furniture design came from the modernist viewpoint that ultimately viewed form and function as nearly synonymous. Integrating Eastern cultures’ used of color, flat planes, and simplistic design to achieve a perfect marriage of form and function was the ideal way to reject the past and move forward into uncharted territory as far as art and design was concerned.

During the 1920’s the Bauhaus School of Architecture and Design moved places and leaders several times, but the students of this revolutionary institution helped to make modern furniture design a lasting testament to the modernist philosophy. At the time, Germany’s new liberal Weimar Republic sought to make a name for itself as a major producer among its more productive peers, England and the United States.

The idea was to merge sleek, modern design and mass production of high-quality products at a price that everyone would be able to afford. Though this goal was not fully met, its intentions inspired generations of designers to move forward with new and innovative designs.

Materials for designing furniture changed during this period of innovation, and included plastics, metal, and formed plywood as mediums for the bold new designs. These materials certainly helped propel both the success of the products, as well as the companies that made said materials.

Modern furniture design lives on in nearly every aspect of our lives, from the simple and functional designs of Eurway and Ikea furnishings, to the African and Asian-inspired minimalism found at Pier One and World Market. Modern furnishings and the ideals behind them have flourished, and they continue to do so.

By-line:
This post was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of art careers. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24@gmail.com

La Vardera Architecture

2009-01-30T17:05:00.012-05:00

Gregory La Vardera is an Architect located in Merchantville, NJ. He has been developing plans for modern homes that have something for everyone. There are three great things about his work. You buy plans for houses that are already designed, saving a great deal of money while still having the creative design of a great architect. He has a good variety of plans to choose from so you're not locked into one or two designs, and finally, the work is great. See his website for many more designs and his blog for more pictures and info on the building of these homes.

Digital Wallpaper

2009-01-29T07:16:00.000-05:00

Deborah Bowness designs ready-made digital wallpapers that are inventive and can bring about a whole new look for a room. She has been doing this work since 1999, and I haven't seen anything else like it on the market.

Beth Campbell Mobiles

2009-01-28T10:26:00.003-05:00

Beth Campbell is currently showing her latest series of mobiles at the Nicole Klagsbrun Gallery in Chelsea. Campbell is an inter-disciplinary artist committed to enhancing our awareness and perception of space through her intriguing objects and installations. Her hanging mobiles have a delicacy and gravity that become increasingly compelling as you notice their subtle movement. They are composed of steel wire of various diameters, lending a thread-like quality to some, while others seem heavier and more ponderous. As a silversmith I find this work very interesting. Via Daily Serving.

Aton Design

2009-01-27T10:01:00.006-05:00

Muhammad Moussa and Rick Shean of Aton, design by learning. Their designs are inspired by a constant search for the extraordinary in the ordinary; a philosophy adopted when exploring materials, pattern, and form. Their tables and lights are made of wood, clay, glass and light and each piece not only has a sublime form in and of itself but casts beautiful light patterns that bring a whole other level to the design. You can order in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes.

Nada Go Go T-shirts

2009-01-27T09:18:00.000-05:00

Looking for unusual t-shirts? Check out Nada Go Go for Cotton tees for the modern art minded.

Finn Juhl

2009-01-20T18:44:00.003-05:00

I love the work of Danish designer Finn Juhl. These chairs were designed in 1955 and are a spectacular mix of form and function meets organic materials. Found at Wright Auction House where you can see more of his work.

Mehrzeller, Polygon Camper

2009-01-19T18:50:00.005-05:00

Camping and RVing never looked so cool. I thought the Airstream International line was the hottest, but the Mehrzeller Polygon Camper takes the cake. Designed by Christian Freissling and Theresa Kalteis, this multi-cell camper is unique not only in it's ultra modern look but in the design concept. Each camper is designed to the needs and wishes of the buyer. If I owned this I wouldn't want to come home..... ever!