Slowing My Pace

I am taking some time off between now and September but do check in as I will do a few posts over my break. Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to rate the blog! Link is to the right.

Exclamation Point Jewelry

I love the modern creativity of Exclamation Point Jewelry. You will find work in both metal and fiber at her site but I'm featuring the fiber jewelry. It's also quite affordable. I was pleased to see that she is from Pittsburgh as am I. There's a lot of creativity in the Burgh.

Aldo Londi Ceramics

These remarkable ceramic animals are by designer Aldo Londi (1911-2003), the former art director of the famous Bitossi family ceramic studio in Italy. He is most famous for his RiminiBlu collection which is equally stunning. His work is still in production at Bitossi or can be purchased at vintage site.

Vintage Couture At The Frock

Most of us will never come close to owning a couture dress in our lifetime, but you can get a little closer to being able to at The Frock. They have a stunning collection of vintage designer and couture clothing and there are more than a few pieces for the modern minded.

Some Of My Favorite Lamps

These are a few of my favorite lamps designed by Poul Henningsen. They are true modern classics.

As Art Up

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A lovely new design from as_art_up. See flicker for more great work.

Travel Bags With Color

Piquadro and the University of Florence School of Architecture collaborated to present 14 travel bag concepts developed by the 3rd year Industrial Design students. The objective was to meet the needs of the modern traveler who must move regularly for business on multiple modes of transport, and obviously for one who is not afraid of a bit of color. Thanks to Core 77.

Kerf, Mid-Century Style Made Today

Kerf Design is a custom furniture and cabinet shop making company, committed to environmental responsibility through the use of sustainable materials and methods. They specialize in building modern cabinets and freestanding furniture out of plywood and plastic laminate. Their work has a wonderful mid-century modern feel that will work in any modern interior.

Entryways To Your Home

The most obvious issue when decorating your homes entryway is it's the first thing your guests will see when they enter. What statement do you want it to make? It's the precursor space for all others in your home. A high impact piece of art or furniture can make this space spectacular. But of equal importance are several other issues. Do you use your main entryway to exit and enter your home? Do you need storage there for your keys, mail, hats...? How much foot traffic and mess will come through your entryway and how hearty does the floor surface need to be? Do you need a mirror to make sure you're presentable on your way out? All of the answers to these questions will help you decide how to design and decorate this space. Here are a few examples that fit not only a great looking entry space but the individual needs of it's owner.

Happy Birthday Sidney Crosby

On a side note, today one of the most talented sports figures turns 21 and as a hockey fan I couldn't pass this milestone up. Sidney Crosby, who plays for my Pittsburgh Penguins, is the next great one, even according to Wayne Gretzky, and if you haven't seen him play you should make a note to check him and his other team mates out when hockey season begins this October. It's amazing to watch. Sid is the new face of hockey in North America and is helping bring this sport back in the US. As the youngest captain in NHL history, record breaking seasons, spreads in GQ and Vanity Fair before starting his rookie year, a trip to the Stanley Cup Finals and major endorsements that include his own Reebok clothing line, this handsome, well spoken young man is a joy to have in Pittsburgh. Happy 21st Sid and best of luck this season!

E-Legnos Wood Tubs

They are more stunning than a wooden boat and you can feature them in your home. E-Lengos wooden tubs are made from cedar, oak and many other woods and come in a variety of designs. They smell as good as they look and turn bath time into a modern zen experience.

Elisabetta Dupre

Every once in a while I find a jewelry designer whose work I wish I had created. It pains me that I didn't and I know that is when I've found something I love. That is the case with Elisabetta Dupre's work. It is so stunningly modern and organic at the same time and her minimal approach is beautifully executed in silver and gold. Enjoy!

Making The Most Of Your Kitchen Space

There are so many ideas you can use in a kitchen design to make the most of your space. Consider how you use your space and decide how much cabinet space you really need. Not a big cook? Then use less cabinets and incorporate more open space and art in your kitchen. Need a desk area? It doesn't have to be large and can go on an otherwise empty wall. Small islands can serve as seating, food prep areas and serving areas. Whatever you need in your kitchen doesn't have to take up lots of space. Many kitchens these days are just to big and lack a personal and intimate feel. You can have it all without having a bowling ally size kitchen.