I walked around the showroom for months not noticing this lamp, and then one day I saw it, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it.  It’s quiet and understated, but in a powerful and poetic way ( like a haiku).  I love all the different forms it can morph into and it slightly reminds me of an old school Star Trek model (just for the record, I am not a Treki, not that I have anything against Trekies.  Naoto Fukasawa (say it out loud, it feels beautiful in your mouth) distilled something magnificent here.

mymodernistlife

Originally designed In 1936, Alvar Aalto pushed the envelope with this unique shape that will remain forever modern. As a statement against industrial production, the Aalto vase promoted human minded involvement to fill human minded needs. Organic, versatile, enduring; Aalto today takes form in a variety of mouth blown glass vases, trays, votives and bowls by Iittala. In the spirit of “mind-made” design this holiday season, indulge in a bit of Aalto genius with a votive candle holder.

I have read so many comments online regarding, Marcel Wanders Zeppelin suspension lamp designed in 2005 which are incredibly negative. Why all the hate? This piece should be appreciated for it’s unique transparent texture and amazing diffused light. The transparent polymethylmethacrylate “candles” & faceted crystal globe provide a “sparkle effect” and play of light and shadow that I think is amazing.

So, my opinion is to keep an open mind – don’t be scared of creepy crawly things they may have inspired and influenced a designer to create something seriously uber interesting.

“The idea for the feltri was as old as the hills where the material was concerned: felt the first fabric used by man”

Gaetano Pesce

This wool felt high back chair designed by Gaetano Pesce in 1987 for Cassina is the perfect chair to set yourself into for the winter weather. I love this chair because it gives me the feeling of being wraped in a cozy quilted wool duvet. ….Just add wine…………………

Iittala has introduced some new colours in some classic pieces. My personal favourite being the combinations in black. Check out the new Origo stripe with its contrasting black, white, grey, and chartreuse colours. It looks smart with the new black Teema dinner plates. Or check out the  absolutely stunning, classic Alvar Aalto Collection’s vase in polished black. One thing is clear basic black holds a place in everyones personal sense of style!

Ever had issues with cables getting messed under your desk?

NeatLinks by Humanscale offer the simplest and most effective solution for housing and routing cables, power strips and ballasts to maintain an organized work space.

I have a unique twist tie method for my cables in the office, but this is pretty sweet.

This product won bronze in their category at Neocon Canada 2008.

Here is the Neatlinks PDF

Neatlinks Workstation