Update on Classics

Now I'm a big fan of the classics...They're called "classics" for a reason. However, my personal design style is still evolving and striving for definition. Lately, I've been really into mixing classic colors, patterns, and furniture with modern elements and accents.

It's amazing as you sift through furniture and architectural history books how so many different styles have evolved over time. As a young furniture designer, I'm always looking for unique updates on traditional styles. It's all about a balance.

Today as I was surfin', I happened to stumble upon these beautiful storage units by Vivavi. Here they incorporate a modern twist on the traditional inlaid technique.

What's even better?! They are all made with sustainability in mind.

Here are some of my favorites:

"Mod Lodge" Sideboard

(Reclaimed Kerei doors, plywood frame, laminate, and stainless steel legs)

$3,400 list

"Dandelion" Graphic Dresser

$3,995 list

Who says inlays have to be wood?

Think about positive and negative space...

"Hive" Bench/Table

(Recycled steel, zero VOC powdercoat finish, wind & solar powered construction facility)

$1,790 list

Let there be light!

"Bamboo: Glowbox"

(Bamboo ply, Formaldehyde-free adhesives)

$4,000 list

**Here is a detail of how they achieved the bamboo light reveals**

(Pretty slick, huh?!)

Seeing Green?

I have been frequently visiting Metropolis Magazine for some years now and I'm always excited to see the new features in their "DesignMart" section. This is where they highlight some of the newest, most innovative products sweeping the market place.

As I was casually surfing around this morning, I stumbled upon this interesting chandelier.Green Design has become a growing trend, especially these last 5 years or so, but this lighting fixture translates it pretty literally! (And I think that's the idea.)

Designed and created by water pressure lighting from dwellings, ltd, this chandelier encompasses the inspiration from one of the most basic natural elements- water. It is a whimsical reflection of the life cycle process of irrigation.

"Irrigation" Collection

$4200 list

Notice the crystal dragonfly!

Here are some other favorites:

"Lawn Sprinkler" Collection

$4800 list

"NYC Sewer Grate" Collection (can you find the little crystal rat in this??)

$3900 list

"Crashing Waves" Collection

 $5100 list

Now it wouldn't make sense unless they produced their beautiful fixtures in a sustainable way...

Their website describes that they use energy-efficient LED bulbs, which last 10x longer than standard incandescent. They opt for a powdercoat method on all their products, which is "dry, non leaching, and a more resource-recoverable finish process". Lastly, not one note is missed, they utilize "recyclable shipping and promotional materials."

Love? Hate? Let me know... (I'm thinking love!)