It wasn’t too long ago that I posted about John Lautner, but somehow I managed to miss this amazing documentary about him. Infinite Space : The Architecture of John Lautner is available on DVD for $20.

The Roshni Light appeals to the ‘rustic modern’ aesthetic that seems to be a newly developing trend. With a wood base, two stainless-steel extension rods, wire clamps and a 16-foot electric chord, this light can be used as a side lamp, floor lamp or hanging lamp. It’s minimal and urban and rural and modern all at the same time. Overall, quite lovely. Designed by The Home Port Collections.

Roshni Light by The Home Port Collections available from Velocity Art & Design: $150

I’m adding this idea to the list of things that I wish I would have thought of first. Designed by graphic designer and illustrator Igor “Rogix” Udushlivy the Jacket + Bookmark project takes classic book titles and creates a new jacket for them with a bookmark that is integrated into the design. Unfortunately this is one of those fabulous ideas that will never really be produced. Looks like a DIY project may be in order.

Check out icoeye.com for more from Igor.

via

These awesome, handmade cards are created (and stitched!) right here in Utah. I love the modern design collection, which includes everything from the ubiquitous Eames Lounger to theProuve Standard Chair. The McCobb Desk even makes an appearance! It seems Stitched has a genuine love for modern design! If you’d like to snag a few of your faves to send out to fellow design nerds (or hoard for yourself) don’t hesitate. Stitched cards are only $6.

Modern Cards from Stitched: $6

Kerry Beary’s work is full of swanky pads, equally swanky people, and their swanky pets. That’s a lot of swank, folks. Check out her Etsy shop to score an original painting or a high quality giclee, you choose!

See more at www.kerrybeary.com

Original Paintings: $500 – $725
Limited Edition Prints: $15 – $60

Chilewich recently introduced a line of modern pet mats in their signature basketweave material. From the picture, it looks like it would only work for smaller dog bowls. Still, I love the retro/bone shape and little puppy cutout! The cost for protecting your floors in style? Only $35! Available in 5 colors: chestnut, lemon, mango, lime, and platinum.

Pet Mats from Chilewich: $35

via Dog Milk

With summer just around the corner, it can only mean one thing. New items from Ikea! Summer will be bringing some new seasonal items, as well as some updates to current lines. A lot of these things are already in stores, I know my wife picked up a set of the snazzy red barbecue tools already.

Some of my other favorites include the funky bold African inspired VILMIE collection of pillows, curtains, and throws. ($7 – $30)

A nice update to an old line is the new colors for the KARLSTAD sofa. I swear I don’t ever remember this little guy looking so good. I’m still on the fence about the leather version with the headrests though. ($499 – $899)

There are some great new colorful kids duvet sets as well. These things are just screaming summer. ($20)

So what is your favorite new item?

Made from 100% post consumer recycled plastic, this new birdhouse from Loll has a great modern look. The design is simple enough, that with a little know how, I think you could easily build your own version. But if you’d rather not, rest assured that the Pitch Birdhouse requires no assembly and mounts easily. Available in six fantastic colors: black, sky, white, chocolate, leaf, and apple.

Pitch Birdhouse by Loll: $68

For the little budding explorer or animal lover in your life, these lights are sure to please! Sized just right for a nightstand or tabletop and made of unbreakable polypropylene, these lamps do not heat up and are safe for use around children. Designed by Ramin Razani for Officine CREA. Though there are 9 different styles, I was only able to find the Giraffe and Elephant readily available for U.S. customers.

See the whole Zzzoolight collection here.

Giraffe and Elephant available from PID.se: $94

Modern and Motel 6 are not two words that I typically put together in the same sentence. In fact when I think about a Motel 6 room I cringe at the sea of beige and maroon that washes over me. That is why I was completely shocked to hear that Motel 6 is changing their tune. Shown above is their Phoenix prototype room which is the “now mandatory teimplate for future renovations at all 1,0345 company-owned and franchise properties”. Has anyone seen one of these rooms in person? According to the article most Chicago area hotels have already been converted.

Full press release here.

Additional photos available here.

Tampa Tribune article here.