Design
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Christie’s Interiors Sale
Low-key elegance ruled at Christie’s Interiors SaleIn case you missed this month’s Christie’s Interiors Sale, I encourage you to keep their next one in mind, by visiting their website’s calendar. It was the kind of sale that was right for just about anyone’s budget, and this year, like the preceding ones before it, didn’t disappoint.A pair of massive bone-inlaid oak vitrine cabinets Mid 20th CenturyDuring the three day sale, the gavel went down on several items for as low as $65! Now that’s what I call Recession Art. Darling, don’t we just love a bargain?
Although I personally didn’t buy a single item for myself during the July sale, I did familiarize myself with what was “on the menu” by rummaging through the pages of their catalogue, while I was traveling, a few weeks back. Two words stuck out on my mind, when I thought about writing this post – Easy Elegance. These pieces are perfect for the young art collector, or the individual with a secondary home in the country. The bone-inlaid oak vitrine above is massive, yes, but it can be a good fit for a big or moderately sized room, providing that it remains the leading presence.
Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946)SuitorEnough spark to light a fire! This piece from Arnoldi is a great conversation piece, and adds just the right amount of color for a muted interior or a space that is in desperate need for some ambiance.
A sepik river mask from Papua New GuineaComing across the unexpected in any interior can be refreshing. I truly like the sense of whimsy, the geometric shapes and natural colors of this mask. I must admit that I envy the one who got away with it!
Claire Falkenstein (AMERICAN, 1908-1998)Centrifugal IIII love art which carries a sense of movement. This shadow box from Falkenstein is a good beginning for those who are looking to start collecting some of her work.
A gilt-brass and textured brown leather circular coffee table,
by William (Billy) Haines, Mid circa 1950
There was a fair amount of furniture from legendary Hollywood designer, William Haines, at the Interiors Sale, this year. So if you were able to snag a couple of his works, more power to you. I found this coffee table to be extremely sexy. With its gilt-brass geometric shaped legs, it fits right at home in the country or the city. And what’s more, it’s small enough to move around , when the occasion calls for it.A set of six bronze, copper and gilt metal circular ashtrays,
by William (Billy) Haines and Michael Morrison, circa 1050
Rustic chic! Instead of using these as ashtrays, I would have them around as serving trays when entertaining guests, or simply use them in the bathroom as soap dishes.
A red lacquered two tiered side table,
by William (Billy) Haines, circa 1950
There’s a primitive look to this table which is right for just about any type of interiors. A little red is just the right amount of color to accentuate any space. Plus it’s small enough to use as a bench when you’re in a pinch.
A pair of French oak and rush low chairs, Mid 20th Century
This pair brings to mind a “Provencal” setting. Giving the simplicity of its clean lines, the silhouette is quite alluring and believe it or not, they’re very comfortable (I sat on those myself during the viewing).
A set of three French oak stools,
late 19th/Early 20th CenturyThese circular top antique French stools could be quite useful in a library, don’t you think? Whenever I buy a table or a chair, I always look at its legs since that usually determine the common thread I’m seeking for the project. With their modern sensibilities and Eastern adaptations, these stools are a crowd pleaser.
A French oak curved bench, attributed to Guillerme et Chambron, Mid 20th CenturyI can easily picture this bench with one of Ralph Lauren’s “summer house” colors which he currently carries. Either the bright orange, or the sultry yellow fabric will do. Yes, even William Morris would of been proud of this piece.NOTE: Please notify us directly, if you believe that certain images on this post are alleged to infringe upon the copyrights of others, according to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Thank you. -
Interior Lighting For The Home
“Always try to use natural light as the great enhancement. There is nothing like it.”
Benjamin Noriega-OrtizLast Monday evening, the New York IIDA Committee, designing students and guests, along with several distinguished designers, gathered together at the swanky Swarovski Crystalized Concept Store in Soho to talk about something that effect us all – Interior Lighting.
Art + Design in Neighborhoods was to be discussed that evening. Lighting is an integral part of our everyday lives, yet some of us have chosen to live with bad lighting, and not demand the best. I remembered a scene from British comedy Absolutely Fabulous when upon arriving at Edina’s house, Patsy asked “What’s going on here? Is it the lighting, or am I badly lit?” A little British humor, yes, but considering that great lighting is within our reach, and can be achieved through careful selected interior colors, furniture, and textile, there really is no excuse for anything less. Celebrity interior designer and architect, Mr. Benjamin Ortiz talked about how he focuses on metals, whimsical lighting, and color, when he designs for himself and his clients.
Indeed, color is important because it creates sensation, and that is crucial in any room. Did you know that great lighting in any room can be achieve by simply highlighting a reflective ceiling light? Product designer, Jason Miller, uses his lighting creations to define a space. His current collection is divine and have several cultural references which make them even more alluring. It was so interesting to learn how Mr. Ivan Navarro, uses the purity of florescent light bulbs in his work to highlight social and political factors that inherently lie within formal composition. Through the eyes of each of these designers, it became plain to see how each of us can take minimal or significant steps in order to live with the benefits of exceptional lighting. The benefits are not just about the aesthetics, but purely therapeutic.
From left: Moderator Ms. Julie Taraska, senior editor of Gilt Home at Gilt Groupe, lighting artist, Mr. Ivan Navarro, Mr. Benjamin Noriega Ortiz principal of BNO Design, Mr. Jason Miller of Miller Studio,Mr. Hans Galutera of BG Studio,and Ms. Debra Gerstenfeld from Wolf Gordon
VSP, Ms. Janet Valenza from Closet Revolution, and Mr. Benjamin N. OrtizEnlighten conversations, and great ambiance all around. -
Designer Spotlight: Phillipe Nigro
The irresistible (and versatile) style of Philippe Nigro.
Philippe Nigro is one busy man. Since 1999, the french born designer have developed products, furniture, lighting, interior architecture, events and scenography for illuminary studios such as De Lucchi in Milan, Olivetti, Poltrona Frau, Artemide, Alias, Caimi, Interni, Feg, Listone Giordano, and Ligne Roset. At the same time, he has also worked on projects for Nube Italia, Felicerossi, NavaDesign.
Since 2005, his long-term furniture projects have been supported by the VIA, thanks to which he was able to design the Spiral shelf, Storage-Unit chest and Intersection divans. In January 2009, the Twin-Chairs chairs and the Tréteau universal table base fallowed.
Some of Philippe’s projects have been put into production, like the Cross-Unit (Sintesi) or Intersection, from which sprang the Confluences collection of upholstery, produced by Ligne Roset.
One of the many highlights of his career was in 2008, when he was awarded 2nd prize in the ‘Autogrill’ restaurant competition, with M. Biffi. Philippe Nigro’s designs have an international appeal and resonate with design lovers.
EntaillesThis is the quintessential sofa for your summer house.The Entailles is a classic example of Philippe Nigro design, these couches are “semi”-articulated in that they have functional notches that allow the insertion of little occasional tables
(for reading, writing, working, drinking, eating).
Spiral ShelfThe PassioSofa (top) is influenced by a growing environmental awareness and the need to get closer to nature. Philippe designed Passio / Résille, to bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors. The inventive design is conceived mainly for living rooms, dining rooms or kitchens, but a choice of suitable materials also lets it be enjoyed al fresco. This collection is comprised of a sofa, an armchair and a chair.
T.U. Table 2010This spectacular dining table has a metal base in folded soldered steel finished in epoxy white, red or black lacquer. It comes in a thick alveolar panels (laminate, reversible & double-sided with natural oak veneered edges) or in solid wood (faces and edges in walnut; core in spruce), and a base which is adjustable in both width and thickness thanks to a system of clamps which attach to the edges of the tops (clamp has chromed steel screw fitting).
Inseparable 2010This small low table from a collection designed for Ligne Roset can also be used as a sofa end table. A footstool slides beneath it, offering an occasional seat when used independently of the table.Ingenious and extremely useful when you live in New York City where space is at a premium, and when each piece of furniture must be as adaptable as it possibly can. -
Luxurious Outdoor Furniture
The Spring 2011 collection from French outdoor furnishing company, Sifas, who is known for catering to the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, debut Kwadra at the ICFF, last month.
I loved the crisp and sexy geometric designs from this new collection. It is modern, light, made of lacquered aluminum and Textylene canvas. Kwadra came in a range of tables, chairs and chaises which were created beautifully – perfect for outdoor or indoor entertainment.
Their Oskar collection, on the other hand, is one of their most plush designs – yet. With padded chairs, chaises, love seats, and coordinating tables, many of the table tops and armrests are very well made and constructed by using Synteak, which is a 100% recyclable material designed by Sifas to keep the appearance and feel of teak, without the staining – ugh! (totally unavoidable when you’re having fun in the sun).
That collection is also water resistant, and environmentally sensitive.How convenient.Having evolved with architectural trends over the years, Sifas designs have inspired a blend of indoor intimacy and outdoor freedom.
Sifas was founded on the French Riviera in 1937. Their products are all about beautiful and functional designs, with a real commitment to comfort.“Sifas designers are challenged to create furniture that is comfortable and refined in both interior and exterior applications. The same furniture can be used around a swimming pool or inside a dining room.” Joost Jansen, President of Sifas USA, www.sifasusa.com -
The Weekender: ICFF 2011
P L A Y I N G w i t h D E S I G NSustainable designs are in demand, and designers delivered. Last weekend at Jacob Javits, the design industry gathered together to preview the latest efforts from furniture makers, carpet designers, textiles and lighting designers – and then some. From the looks of things, sustainable designs did reigned supreme. I came across some strong designs from neighboring Brooklyn artists, and once again, it made me realized that when it comes to good designs, New York still has a strong ground to stand on.However, after a few short walks down the aisles, this sense of déjà vu quickly came over and I started to get bored, until I saw something that was completely refreshing! The playful designs of Austrian designer, Philipp Bruni.
Multidimensional thinking, clever ideas and a manifold background are Philipp Bruni’s keys to success. It’s evident that being a creative individual, a mechanical engineer, an economist and a craftsman at the same time is the fundamental that allows Bruni to constantly come up with strong, new ideas and further to realize them as expressive and convincing designs. Refreshing, indeed!Studio Via F. Burlamacchi 12, 20135 Milanodesign@philippbruni.com
www.philippbruni.comTo purchase the Pinocchio Billiard Edition, please contact
The Augarten Porcelain Manufactory in Vienna
www.augarten.at
The young and upcoming Austrian designer Philipp Bruni has been building his studio in the design metropolis Milan since 2006. For this year’s show, Philipp created a series of design objects called PINOCCHIO Billiard Edition. Pinocchio has a long nose. He is an adventurer. If he falls down, he immediately gets up. He is a tumbler, ladies and gentlemen. He is definitely cheeky: if he gets nudged he nudges as well. Instantly, I became drawn to his designs because of their cheerfulness. They are unpretentious and likable.
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Minimal: 21st Century Kitchens
“Clients are always enchanted by the sliding top as they step into our showrooms because they see an idea that combines beauty, comfort and creativity together with high functionality”.
Bartolomeo Bellati
Owner and Founder
MINIMAL USAThey’re sleek, functional, and a visual feast. Their “sliding top” silently slides ahead through a gently push to reveal both a singular induction stainless steel cook top and a retractable faucet. Open, the top serves as a sophisticated linear table that can be a bar, a serving or a dining space, while closed the kitchen forms a unique block. It is this captivating versatility that gives the kitchen a deeper meaning, turning it into a living space where a real spirit of conviviality arouses as a secret that the sliding top keeps under itself. In this way Minimal captures the mood and ambiance of a luxury gathering and multi-functional place.
To kick off the ICFF party route, Minimal will celebrate with a book launch party for ABITARE. Cocktails and Reception and DJ on the rooftop.
Friday, May 13th from 8:00 – 11:00pm.Minimal USA
511 West 25th Street, Suite 809
New York, New York
RSVP: gg@minimalusa.com
www.minimalusa.com
We find that clients are thrilled to work with a company that reach the highest customization in kitchen design. Minimal have literally turn the concept of kitchen into an absolute living experience using high-functional solutions that are able to contain all indispensable elements in order to enjoy cooking and gathering around the kitchen area.
Minimal USA -
Peak Of The Week: Tactile Textiles
R E T U R N I N G B A C K T O N A T U R ENature has always been a great source of inspiration in my designs. Come to think of it, that is one of the reasons why I love the elegantly simple textiles from Création Baumann. Their new collection “The Living Line” is guided by nature, especially in the selection of natural colors.Impeccably painted floral designs on silk taffeta, “Cosmea” brings to mind classic floral prints of long ago, with arrangements and coloring that deliberately deviate.
RosalieThis textile is just as eye catching as any of CB’s collections. The soft wool cloth with punched out motifs is suitable for curtaining and throws.
VidafloraVidalflora is true pizazz. With its velour stripes, it harmonized beautifully to create a brilliant combination. In fact, the entire collection from Création Baumann is absolutely exciting, since they only use first rate combination of the most diverse weaves, designs and colors.to the trade only - Decorative Arts, Design, Editor's Top Picks, Features, Furniture, I Saloni, Interior Design, Italy, Lighting
Top Design Trends from Milan
I Saloni is 50 years young this year, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at the design trends that keep trickling down each year at this iconic luxury design trade show. Planning to attend? You’re in for a treat since you’ll be able to touch, marvel, and experience the world’s best furniture design.I Saloni is where you’ll find a variety of furniture and accessories – from classical to modern. With an increasing audience each year, no wonder this is the quaintessial place where you’ll find firsthand, the trendsetters of tomorrow.
Scene XXL by Montis Designer: Gijs Papavoine 
Hanoi by Prandina Designer: Federico Churba 
Breva by Molteni & C. Designer: Arik Levy 
Duplex by Matteograssi Designer: Piero Lissoni -
Top Places to Shop for High-End Designs
Since its launch in 2009 ShopAD has revolutionized the way designers shop online. Although nothing beats seeing and feeling the products in real-life, wouldn’t you say?
Whether one goes on-line, or visit their various locations across the US, Kravet is a true and proven interior design source. Not to mention a reliable one. In addition to their wide scale textile designs, they also carry an awesome furniture line. 
Hello Gorgeous! Hand-made furniture with a clear English aesthetic. George Smith is also home to one of our favorite wallpaper maker, Fromental. 
This is truly a chic eco friendly company that is keen on keeping you warm inside and out. What more can you ask for? 
A premier venue for ALL your lighting needs. From the classics to the little table lamp you saw while vacationing in the Czech Republic all those years ago. 
From ashtrays to wool-made calendars. Expect the unexpected while shopping at Moss 
IceStone’s mission is to create products that foster a sustainable environment, while developing materials that helps us breathe easier. IceStone is EcoChic. Noteworthy Mention:
Dangerous Liaisons at 301 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London. Middle Eastern furniture, ivory bone inlaid side tables … Simply beautiful.FR 66 – über trendy, aka the House Of True Style. FR 66, 25 Rue Renard, 75004, ParisCathy Lerebours houses a collection of NY’s finest antiques, all due to her tireless travels and acquisitions. Lerebours Antiques, 220 East 60th Street, New York, NY. Lerebours Antiaques.
