My obsession with anything white and porcelain continues, and this month it appears that it is sponsored by Sprout Home. They have a couple great new items including these porcelain jars that look like tin cans. Sure the whole “I look like a (insert misc common item) but I’m made of porcelain” craze is getting played out quick, but I still fall for it every time. Prices on these beauties are $12 – $15. If you are feeling a little more obscure, you may be more inclined to pick up a porcelain milk carton for $14.

Available from Sprout home.

Is it weird that I can get excited about something as boring sounding as a stapler and tape dispenser? Weird or not, I am loving these ordinary items made sexy by Urban Prefer. The simple yet attractive white minimalist design might make those meaningless office tasks just a little more exciting.

If you speak Taiwanese, get them here.
Anyone know if these are available stateside?

Playsam doesn’t exactly have a reputation of making inexpensive toys. The do however makes some of the most beautiful wooden kids toys I have ever seen. Their newest addition is a range called “childhood” which consists of a pink or blue pram. While the $62 price tag is a little shocking, this could be a really sweet gift for someone with a new addition to the family.

Childhood Pram available from Playsam for $62

Sometimes I like innovative ideas even if they don’t make a whole lot of sense. For example I happen to think this Cubic Timer designed by the Japanese collective IDEA would be a great timer, even though it can only count down from 3, 10, 30 or 60 minutes. While it may not be real versatile, at least it’s easy to set. As soon as you set it down with the number facing up it starts to count down for you. Did I mention it comes in three different colors, orange, white and yellow?

Cubic Timer from A + R for $34

Concrete is a great material, it’s inexpensive and when done right it can look absolutely amazing. Unfortunately the hard part is the doing it right. Luckily the folks at Obleek Objects know to get it done. They have a special blend of volcanic ash and portland cement that makes their concrete planters 40% lighter than traditional concrete. Not only is it lighter, but it looks absolutely gorgeous. Their modern concrete planters come in sizes from tiny to x-large and cost between $45 to $200+. They also have a lovely assortment of tables and bird feeders.

Obleeek Concrete Planters available from Feel More Human starting at $45.

Price too steep? I double dog dare someone to try this as a DIY and share your results with the group!

Looking for some last minute stocking stuffers? Here are a couple cool/unique products that I found over at Fredflare.com. These Talking Japanese Watches come in a variety of colors, and you can even mix and match parts. Best part of all though is that with the push of a button it will tell you the time… in Japanese. On sale for $15.

The Repro Depot note card book includes 24 retro patterned cards and envelopes. These kickback patterns could be just the thing for the MCM lover on your shopping list. $16

The white Russian Dolls are actually Russian Doll Measuring cups! Includes six standard measuring cups made of sturdy plastic. Stack them all together inside the largest 5″ doll or spread them out. $16

Last but not least are some retro inspired headphones for the music lover. Imported from Japan these Zumreed Headphones come in lime, pink, blue, white or black. If you want the white, better act quick. There are only two left! $65

Every year I am on the hunt for a good modern contemporary looking Christmas tree, and every year I end up giving up and just going with a traditional fresh cut tree. While I will likely do the same again this year, I am rather smitten with these bottle brush tree’s from CB2. While I don’t think they could replace a traditional tree for me, if you’re cramped for space set on getting a minimal looking tree, this may be your ticket.

Available from CB2 for $39 – $79.

Let us know in the comments what you plan on doing for a tree this year!