It turns out that neon rabbits isn't just a good name for a synth pop band, it's also a great idea for a scandinavian inspired pillow cover. Available in pink, blue, or orange these fantastic pillow covers from La La Label in Stockholm Sweden are as thoughtfully designed as they are good looking. You can pick up a insert/filler from your local Ikea for a perfect fit.
Sex toys are a topic that don't get a lot of attention on design blogs, and for good reason. Most of them are at best semi discrete, and at worst an embarrassment to look at. There is however one company that has stood out among the crowd in a good way for a while, Jimmyjane. I like to think of Jimmyjane as the Apple Computer of the pleasure toy world. Their products are aesthetically pleasing, well made, and innovative. Their about page says it best:
Jimmy Jane Form series Since launching in late 2004, Jimmyjane has redefined the context and perception of sexual wellbeing. Combining sophisticated product development with proprietary technology, our collection encourages connection and excitement without compromising style, wellbeing or personal values.
So if you have a special lady in your life, may I suggest two words for the holiday season. Stocking Stuffer.
While the Torch Light by Sylvain Willenz is not breaking news (It won Best in Lighting, Elle Decoration International Design Awards, 2009 and Grand Designs Best in Lighting Designs 2009) it is an old favorite. While it doesn't seem like there are a lot of good sources to buy this stateside, Haus London has them on sale currently.
If I was cool enough to have an iPad, I would totally carry it around in one of these cases from Poketo. I'm not sure which version I like best though: the envelope, three dot, or two-toned leather. What's your pick?
I love food, so it goes without saying that I like spending some quality time in the kitchen cooking. When it comes to food storage I'm always a fan of glass, especially gorgeous scandinavian inspired glass jars like these Viitri Storage Containers designed by Sarah Böttger.
Viitri Storage Containers $29 - $39
Oh mortar and pestles, I love you... especially when you're handcrafted from porcelain and your pestle is all quirky and cute and dipped in color!
Yet another item to add to my ever-growing list of Japanese products I'm craving... Seriously, is this not the most beautiful cast iron skillet you've ever seen in your life?? There is beauty in the ordinary, people.
Looking for something to do to break yourself out of your Turkey induced stupor? How about a nice civilized game of bocce with this limited edition set by New York based Fredericks and Mae. These are pretty much the best looking bocce set I have ever seen, and once they are gone, they are gone. I think that justifies the $250 AUD price tag.
Fredericks and Mae bocce set. $250 AUD
When I think "bench" almost automatically the next word to come into my mind is Nelson. Undoubtedly the Nelson bench is one of the most iconic bench designs out there, so it's no surprise to see many present day versions trying to get in on some of the classic flavor. The Sixty-Two bench from Petrified Design takes a standard Nelson style top made of reclaimed cedar and pairs it with a rough steel base. While it still doesn't hold up to the original, you can't deny it's a good looking bench.
For all those DIY inspired people out there, make sure you check out Chris's how to on making your own Nelson bench. Thoroughly informative with good step by step instructions.
Gnomes! With gold hats! There is absolutely nothing not to love.
I find myself strangely attracted to this moss wall hanging planter by Mr Lentz. It's a simple plank of cedar stained with walnut husks and black tea then sealed with a little flax seed oil. It's topped with a piece of dried moss. While it reads more like the ingredients for a exotic salad, it actually makes a nice piece of wall art.
The Offset Bench from West Elm is the perfect entryway piece, especially if yours is a "shoes off, please" home. With a nicely upholstered cushion (available in red, beige, or grey), taking those shoes off or tying them back on just got a whole lot easier for guests--and yourself! As for the extra storage on the side? BONUS!
Cutting boards are a secret obsession of mine, mostly because they all look so easy to make, and I'm hankering to turn out a bunch of mine own. These Trapezoid Bread Boards from Task have some nice subtle details. Made from blonde hickory they are the perfect thing for cheese and charcuterie.
OK, I fully admit the words "Borosilicate Glass Water Cooker" mean nothing to me. I just think it looks good. About:
Holding a good one-and-a-half litres, this beautifully-designed teapot first boils the water for you (the gently domed base ensures that the glass can’t crack when heated on a stove). Then simply fill the sieve with your favourite tea and place it in the boiling water: keep it warm on stove or cooker – no fussy tea warmer with candles needed!
The Pools Collection from Fleet is a complete ceramic tableware series consisting of mix-n-match vessels and lids that can be used for a variety of purposes: vases, soup bowls, pencil holders, serving dishes, you name it! I'm especially fond of the idea of combining the spotted lid with one of the taller vessels as a vase--what's your favorite combination?
I'm love a good looking bike and after an unfortunate encounter between my Trek District and a car I have been on the prowl for an inexpensive replacement. I first saw Sole Bicycles on Fab.com a few weeks ago and instantly fell in love. The look is spot on, with several different color combinations to choose from, and the price, AMAZING. Sole was kind enough to send me a bike to review, and while the weather has been a bit nippy lately, I have a good chance to put some miles in.
First, the bikes ship mostly assembled with just a bit of wrenching needed to get it all put together. The components were noticeably lower quality when compared to my District, but at 1/3 the price that is to be expected. The frame certainly looks and feels well made, so you always have the option of upgrading later. The bike comes set up as a fixed gear, but it is a flip flop rear wheel so you can easily turn it around for some single speed free wheeling if you want. The bike only comes with a front break which seems adequate, especially when riding it fixed.
Overall I'm very happy with the bike, especially for my intended use (bar hopping). If you are looking for a series commuter and budget isn't a concern, it may be worth it to look at some higher end brands. For the casual rider or budget shopper, you can't beat the Sole.
My name is Capree and I approve these mugs! (Also, the brown version looks pretty stellar on that teak coaster, yes?)
I always like a good clock, and the minimalist in me really really likes a good white clock. The Modern Numbers Clock by uncommon is a simple recipe for success. Take a plain white face, laser engrave some neutraface numbers into it, add a chunky set of aluminum hands and prosper. Also available in poppy red, chartreuse, and ash grey.
Multi-functional and modular with Mid-Century style? Yes, please! The Silenos series from Innovation may just be the best combination of form and function ever. The collection includes a chair, sofa bed, and full size sofa in your choice of two great woven fabrics. Mix and match to create an array of setups for lounging or sleeping!
