Modern Intent

Hiatus

2008-04-29T08:56:00.002-06:00

I'm taking a blogging break for now, as I am working on many projects in and around the house. I'll post updates as we progress, but it seems I haven't been very inspired to post as of late. I'm even taking a break from posting on Design Talk as well.

Sofa Dreaming

2008-04-15T07:39:00.003-06:00

We finally determined a space in our house suitable for the gorgeous maple armoire made by Aaron's dad. It will change the character of the seating area, softening the overall appearance. In line with that is the new Thompkins Sofa from West Elm. I just dream of having this super-comfy hemp sofa in the space. I love that there is just one seat cushion, and that the pillows are firm and substantial. But since we owe the federal government big time on taxes this year, I will just have to keep on dreaming.

They're Back, It's Officially Spring!

2008-04-14T17:12:00.002-06:00

I was just in the kitchen starting dinner, when I thought I heard a vague, high-pitched buzzing sound. Sure enough, I looked out the window and there was the first hummingbird of the season, eating at the feeder. I just put the feeders out yesterday afternoon. That didn't take long! We'll have to see if it was just a migrator stopping by, or our pair from the past two years.

"Get Out Of There!"

2008-04-14T15:42:00.004-06:00

So said my husband on the phone when I called him from Anthropologie. Drooling over dresses I can't afford is a bit pathetic, I admit. However, I refused to leave without the Owl Invasion Apron, which I am wearing right now. I love to cook and love to wear cute aprons while doing so, and this apron will fit right into my collection.

Not a Joke

2008-04-14T08:50:00.003-06:00

The Die Electric experiment helps you plug your outlets when not in use, in the most disturbing ways.

Noose screws into an unused overhead light socket.

The Die Electric Chair

Plug Shelf

Toothbrush Holder

The Anti-Shoe

2008-04-14T08:43:00.002-06:00

A shoe that activates neglected muscle, improves posture, tones the body and reduces stress on the knees and hips? These are the claims of MBT and I am willing to give them a go. They may look a little unusual, but they aren't as bad as those shoes with the coils on the heel. At over $200/pair I wonder if I can get a prescription from my doctor. I found a few ABQ stores that sell them, so maybe I'll try on a pair today.

Eating Our Veggies

2008-04-09T07:42:00.003-06:00

Monday means a brand new veggie box from Los Poblanos Organics. Grown right across the Rio Grande in Los Ranchos, NM, our box is filled with super-nutritious organic fruits and vegetables. The boxes are delivered to a pick-up location right up the street from our house. It's amazing eating lettuce and carrots that were picked that morning! And we are supporting our local farmers, not driving 20 miles to Whole Foods.

Fluid Earth

2008-03-31T07:40:00.003-07:00

I want a fruit bowl that reflects the landscape surrounding my home. At Fluid Earth I can design such a bowl.

Each part of the earth is unique in then design of her heights and depths. Fluidforms enables customers to have a piece of this singularity on a table at home. The different contour lines of a chosen area define the shape of the bowl. An expedition into landscapes and cities only known from hiking. The earth becomes a sensory experience, that can be filled with the fruits of the earth.

Granville Island Shops

2008-03-30T08:28:00.005-07:00

In addition to the superb public market on Granville Island, there are dozens of design shops featuring some of Vancouver's most talented artists. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Wood Co-Op

Gigi B. on Granville Island

The Original Paper-Ya

Circle Craft Co-Operative Shop & Gallery

A Must See City

2008-03-24T19:13:00.004-07:00

We're back from the most fabulous trip to Vancouver. Even in the rain it is incredibly beautiful, with limitless activities for the nature lover and the urban dweller. We never got to IDS West. Why be trapped in the convention center when the city was there to explore? I'll be putting together a complete design-oriented post when I get back from Minneapolis, but in the meantime check out the rest of the trip photos here. Oh, we did spend the last day in Seattle, most notably in the remarkable Seattle Public Library. I used to really like Seattle, but I must say now that it pales in comparison to Vancouver. If you haven't had the opportunity to visit, make your plans and get there!

Vancouver

2008-03-17T09:47:00.004-07:00

We're leaving now for a week in Vancouver. Yes, leaving sunny New Mexico in the 60's-70's and heading for cold and rainy Vancouver in the 30's! Still, the weather won't stop us from enjoying one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I'm back home for two days and then have to head to Minneapolis for the Public Library Association conference, but I hope to get in a post or two at some point.

Here It Is

2008-03-10T08:20:00.005-07:00

Well, here it is. The "bad garage" in all its glory. It is an eyesore on our property, but will soon be transformed into a fabulous office/studio with a half bath. Imagine a wall of south-facing windows, new Hardieplank siding, a nice deck on the side, a covered entryway and landscaped patio. No one will ever know it was a run-down garage.

Sprout

2008-03-09T15:24:00.003-07:00

A little potted plant, a little sprout to remind us that spring is on the way. But does it remind you that it's time to clean the bathroom? These toilet brushes by Alessi will help make cleaning a more pleasant task.

Getting Woodsy

2008-03-09T14:59:00.003-07:00

Not one to have alabaster antlers, squirrel serving platters or owl pillows in my house, I do like the nature-inspired Woody Wood Rug. Designed by Yvette Laduk these woodgrain infused rugs are made to last. The edges are burnt, cut and sprayed. I'm seeing this in the remodeled office/studio...

Perfect Sunday Evening

2008-03-03T16:40:00.002-07:00

Aaron is out hiking with his favorite pup Kyla, and I'm in the kitchen putting together a hearty vegetarian moussaka. I've already opened a 2004 Phantom to let it breathe before serving. Well, of course I'm having some myself before dinner, but I've got to make sure it's the perfect wine for the moussaka. I hope there will be some left for dinner!

Just Smashing

2008-03-03T08:53:00.002-07:00

Even Aaron loves Studio Dror's Vase of Phases collection. The black one is especially striking.

Parametre

2008-03-03T08:41:00.002-07:00

When we remodel the bad garage to create our new office/studio, Aaron will need a partition for his music area. We don't want a wall blocking the light, and are looking for something light and flexible. Enter Parametre by 3Form. Available in four colors, three patterns and vertical or horizontal applications, these expandable polyester partitions are lightweight and clean. A UV coating allows them to be used either indoors or outdoors.

Spiral

2008-03-02T11:02:00.002-07:00

The Spiral light by 101 is interesting, to say the least. The acrylic cord twists and turns up the table leg to form the lamp itself.

Luminesse

2008-02-29T21:16:00.003-07:00

The most luxurious of oil-burning sculptures, the Aston releases aromatic essences through its soft glow. Available in the richest woods, including Macassar Ebony, Mappa Burl, Zebra and Walnut. The perfect gift for an ambiance connoisseur.

Diana Fayt

2008-02-28T07:13:00.004-07:00

Visit Diana Fayt's website or Etsy shop to learn about her painstakingly gorgeous porcelain creations. I love the simplicity of her hand-etched illustrations and fine glazing.

Come On In!

2008-02-25T10:15:00.003-07:00

In addition to the mega-remodel of the bad garage, I'd really like to spruce up our entry. Having a ranch-authentic front door is key. I absolutely love all of the reproductions styles from Crestview Doors. This Austin TX-based company designs and builds custom doors based on vintage 50's and 60's designs.

Crisp and Clean

2008-02-25T10:07:00.003-07:00

Hand printed on 100% linen, these kitchen towels by defyra will bring an air of sophistication and whimsy to your kitchen.

PrePub Alert

2008-02-18T15:58:00.002-07:00

This is one book I'm anticipating: Contemporary Chic, by Rozemarijn de Witte. Available this May, the book focuses on all my favorite aspects of modern decor: relaxed, cozy and natural.

And Speaking of Change

2008-02-18T14:43:00.004-07:00

Since we spent a solid six months gutting and remodeling our ranch in 2006, we thought "why not tackle the bad garage?" So without further ado, we crunched the numbers, visited our banker, and have proceeded with plans to convert one of our detached garages into livable space. When done, the new studio/office will add over 400 square feet of finished space to our home. If we lived through the house remodel, this will be a piece of cake, right?

To put me in the mood for yet another major renovation, I visited Houseblogs.net for more "home improvement stories for the dwelling obsessed." But who am I kidding? This project will be far more difficult. The husband and I can't seem to agree on much so far: get an architect or not, what is the major purpose of the space, what kind of heating system should we use, shouldn't we use some money to redo the entrance to the house? The list goes on, but we need to come to some agreement soon. Now is the time of year to lock in a contractor and we can't still be arguing when they arrive!

Wisteria Delicacies

2008-02-15T11:59:00.001-07:00

Bring the warmth of these items from Wisteria into your home this spring.

Plant Paintings

Spring Market

2008-02-15T11:30:00.003-07:00

Now through March 8th, visit Poppytalk Handmade's Spring & Easter Market. Here is just a sampling of the artwork that is helping me feel better today.

The lush photographs and paintings by Isabel Ferreira

Vintage-inspired brooches and necklaces by Paraphernalia

The poetic photographs of Thea Coughlin

Down for the Count

2008-02-12T12:09:00.001-07:00

Day five of the worst cold/flu I've had in years. I could barely muster the energy to finish this brief post. Back to bed for me.

Ink & Wit

2008-02-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

"Ink & Wit is dedicated to creating a functional and sustainable product that is fun and elegant. Many of the original notecard designs have been modified to postcards in order to conserve paper and save on postage. In addition, postcards are great to have on hand and send for any occasion. They tack to your inspiration board or double as a framed print. All of the art is designed and illustrated by Tara Hogan and printed on the finest quality paper with the intention to add more color to your sacred space or give another a special greeting."

Spring Favorite

2008-02-08T12:14:00.001-07:00

The Fat Finch: Boutique for Birders will surely become a favorite online shop as spring approaches. Visit their whimsical site for anything a bird lover needs: food, feeders, houses, baths and much, much, more.

Love Greetings, Part 3

2008-02-06T06:57:00.000-07:00

Understated graphic greetings from two Etsy artists:

Uccello Curioso

Two Guitars

Architectural Pottery

2008-02-04T07:53:00.001-07:00

Vessel USA has reissued Architectural Pottery's collection of garden planters, sculptures and containers. Bring one of these icons of Mid 20th century design into your home or outdoor living spaces.

Pillow Talk

2008-02-01T07:03:00.001-07:00

Inspired by both nature and classic architecture, these pillows by Printologie would be a perfect accent to any home. "Designer Elaine Dominguez turns her passion for pattern design into graphic, colorful accent pillows for the modern home. From sketches and photographs, the designs are developed further on a computer and digitally printed onto silk."

Love Greetings, Part 2

2008-02-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

Caroline Gardner features cards, gift wrap, gift bags and other goodies for your sweetheart.

Global Beauty

2008-01-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at Rosanna's vibrant spring collection:

Who's in Charge?

2008-01-30T20:43:00.000-07:00

Just got my second promotion in one year! Sorry, but I must pat myself on the back just a little bit. I'll be managing a larger library, closer to home. A new clipboard would certainly convey a sense of confidence as I go in and set things in order. I like these Couture Clipboards, in paisley or houndstooth.

Welcome Home Color

2008-01-28T12:17:00.001-07:00

Our new Chilewich vinyl shag rug and Eames Hang It All add a big color punch to our brick and tan sun room. Most of our home colors are subtle, but the entryway looks so much more welcoming now with a few vibrant tones.

Love Greetings, Part 1

2008-01-28T10:25:00.001-07:00

Today's selection from Rock Scissor Paper:

Bottna Dishware

2008-01-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been attracted to simple, graphic designs on dishware. Anna Danielsson's Bottna Dishes are no exception. One of Marimekko's most productive designers since 2001, Danielsson's pattern is in line with current trends, but is also clearly a timeless design.

Can Opening Creature

2008-01-27T07:50:00.001-07:00

We recently purchased the No-Hands Can Opener at The Sharper Image. You just push the button and watch the opener wiggle and spin around the can. The lid comes off with no fuss. It does seem a little life-like while doing its job, though.

Grass Vase

2008-01-23T08:06:00.001-07:00

Designed by Claydies for Normann Copenhagen, the simple Grass Vase will help showcase the flowers you see everyday. Perfect for wildflowers, daisies, thistle or any bloom growing around your home.

Shimmering Silk

2008-01-23T07:56:00.001-07:00

These lovely Monterey Cushions have me thinking of spring- again. It is warmer this week and the days are getting longer already, so I can be optimistic.

Color Burst

2008-01-21T10:23:00.001-07:00

These ceramic vases by Kenneth Wingard will help brighten up the gloomiest of winter days.

Brentwood

Sprout

O Vases

Tay Lighting

2008-01-21T09:47:00.001-07:00

I love the delicate yet contemporary lighting collection from Tay Lighting. These floor lamps, table lamps and pendants are created by intricately layering fiberglass and painting by hand. Each light is unique, and would certainly be a beautiful focal point in any room.

Modern Moviemaking

2008-01-20T10:20:00.001-07:00

We finally saw "There Will Be Blood" last night. Were my extremely high expectations met? More than met, actually. Please let this be the future of film. It's hard to focus on housewares and furniture when I can't take my mind off of this film, especially the work of Daniel Day Lewis. When Paul Thomas Anderson referred to him as "the holy grail of acting" he wasn't kidding.

Questionable Bookshelf

2008-01-18T06:47:00.001-07:00

Being a librarian by trade, I must question the design of the Flybrary Bookshelf. This kind of system is great for storing magazines and newspapers due to their light weight, but I would be worried about what it would do to the spine of a heavier book. Believe me, books are just not manufactured that well anymore. The concept certainly looks interesting, but what about the functionality?

Not Your Mother's Tupperware

2008-01-18T06:43:00.001-07:00

These lidded melamine containers are almost too cool for leftovers. Get a set here.

Spring Renewal from VivaTerra

2008-01-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's two degrees outside right now- yikes! Good thing I just received the Spring 2008 catalog from VivaTerra, filled with pretty eco-friendly products to keep me dreaming of warmer months to come.

Woodland Bedding

Wabi Sabi Teacups

Hand-Embroidered Rabbit Bag

Branch & Blossom Wall Hanging

Three Trees Platter Set

Naturally Modern Vancouver

2008-01-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

When in Vancouver this March, we'll be sure to stop by the flagship store of 18 Karat.

"Located in Vancouver's South Granville shopping neighbourhood, the 18 Karat Home Store is a design mecca for those who love affordable, modern, simple and organic accessories for the home and body. The 18 Karat collection includes vases, tableware, home textiles, rugs and other fashion accessories for the home, plus fashion jewellery, casual bags and home and body fragrances."

More Sunroom Color

2008-01-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Now that the multi-colored Eames Hang It All has found a home in our sun room, it has inspired us to add a few more splashes of color. Since we need a more winter boot-friendly entry rug, I'm inspired to add a Chilewich Shag floormat. These easy to clean vinyl mats are certainly boot and dog friendly, and the bright colors will be a cheery hello to all who enter.

Happy Owl Sale

2008-01-14T09:18:00.001-07:00

Right now at Happy Owl, everything is on sale: night lights, pendants, apparel and badges. Tracy and Justin are making room for new items coming in February, so visit their store and save big.

Arriving Tomorrow

2008-01-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

After months of indecision we decided to purchase an Eames Hang It All for our entry. The size and sturdiness were important, and a little color never hurt anyone. We did save a little on the price by finding one on EBay.

CB2 First Look

2008-01-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

Not one to use the phrase "I love, love, love this," I must say that CB2's new 2008 catalog had me coming close. Here are just a few of the items that caught my eye:

Carton Vase

Baggage Claimed

2008-01-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Never grab the wrong black suitcase from the luggage carousel again. Hideo Wakamatsu has designed a full line of suitcases, duffel bags, day packs and accessories that are sturdy and stylish, and will set you apart from the everyday traveller.

Decoupage

2008-01-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

I like these charming decoupage paperweights from Show. Heavy glass with felt backing.

Looking Forward

2008-01-03T08:14:00.001-07:00

What a way to start 2008! Thanks to my husband I'll be attending IDSWEST in Vancouver this March! We had discussed a trip to Vancouver, but when I told him about the show he was keen to go as well. We'll have a full day in design heaven, and then many days exploring the beautiful city of Vancouver and surrounds. Thanks, love.

Union Sreet Glass

2008-01-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

Founded in 1980 by Guy and Leanne Corrie, Union Street Glass has grown into their 10,000 sq. ft. studio in Richmond, CA. They use old world glassblowing techniques to create exciting, contemporary glass pieces. Their collections include lamps and light fixtures, stemware, and a variety of coordinating accessories.

Morph Bowl Table Lamp
Manhattan Cake Plate

Urchin Mini Table Lamp

Sienna Burgundy Glass

Aptos Pebble Pendant

Celebrate in Style

2007-12-29T16:42:00.001-07:00

Have a happy, healthy, safe and fabulous New Year's Eve and restful New Year's Day. We'll be toasting the New Year with New Mexico's own Gruet Brut and an old movie.

The Clock is Ticking

2007-12-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

Count down to 2008 with one of these cool clocks from Umbra:

Mystic

Photoart

Matchstick

Teatime

New Year, New Room

2007-12-22T17:22:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be great to start 2008 with a fabulous room makeover, or $25,000 cash? Visit Metropolitan Home now and enter their Dream Come True Sweepstakes for your chance to win the grand prize, or one of several great runner-up prizes.

Get Cozy

2007-12-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

More snow is on the way today, which means cozying up by a crackling fire tonight, egg nog in hand. Wouldn't it be nice to be bundled up in one of these amazing wool blankets by Klippan? Lightweight and chic, these traditional Scandinavian blankets will help keep you warm year after year.

Bookends

2007-12-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

One thing we don't have that we need desperately are bookends! I like the simple, graphic elegance of these Urban Library Alpha Bookends. And they're vegan friendly!

The Un-Christmas Cards

2007-12-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

What would your fourth grade teacher have said if you had practiced your cursive with these? Probably the same things that these Curse-ive Cards say. The set of eight is perfect to have on hand to express our real-life card giving needs.

Hobknobs

2007-12-18T13:36:00.001-07:00

Designed by Amy Adams, her Hobknobs are very useful to have on hand. Use them in the kitchen for cream and sugar, in your office for pens and pencils, on your bedside table for cut flowers- the possibilities are endless.

And Now, Something Cute for Christmas

2007-12-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

Etsy seller lletait'l fois creates the cutest needlefelted wool animals. Talk about the most charming stocking stuffers ever. Visit her website to see the full line of her felted bears.

Blue Moon Jar

2007-12-16T11:51:00.001-07:00

The cooler, moodier sibling of the Sun Jar by Suck UK. Put the Moon Jar on your Christmas list and watch it glow when the stars come out to shine.

Actually, Yes He Did

2007-12-16T11:42:00.001-07:00

Silk soy eggnog, much improved with Meyer's Dark Rum, thanks to my husband. Get the card at Elsewares.

A New Nutcracker

2007-12-10T08:44:00.001-07:00

These sleek nutcrackers from Drosselmeyer will add a modern touch to your holiday table. And talk about functional - simply pop the nut into the top of the cylinder and crack away!

West County Design

2007-12-05T08:01:00.000-07:00

We were happy to discover West County Design on our coastal drive to Mendocino. Tucked away in the town of Valley Ford, this home store was truly unique. My husband even commented that he liked everything in the place. Of course, it helped to have an adorable McNab puppy named Maggie to greet us. We picked out a gorgeous Manzanita wreath for our hearth, and it should be arriving any day now.

Deco Show

2007-12-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Well, we're back from California and glad to be home again. The Art Deco and Modernism Show was overwhelming! So many vendors, so little time. We had hoped to find a couple of table lamps, but couldn't agree on anything. The only purchase made was a $10 vintage purse for me. I was too distracted by all the goodies to take many photos, but here are a few.

Embellished Bottles

2007-11-26T11:24:00.001-07:00

Laura Normandin takes vintage bottles and spruces them up with a little hand painting to create these wonderful embellished bottles.

Art Deco Dreaming

2007-11-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

We are packing up and heading to San Francisco on Thursday for the Art Deco and Modernism event this weekend. I'll have lots of photos to share when we get back next week!

Photo of art deco building on Montgomery Street in San Francisco. Photo by Neil Lukas for DK.

MOD Mobiles

2007-11-26T10:48:00.001-07:00

From tabletop mobiles to a wide array of hanging mobiles, MOD Mobiles will impress. The company creates mobile sculptures for both residential and corporate environments. There are many models available in their online store.

Fabulous Felt

2007-11-24T07:25:00.001-07:00

These laser-cut felt placemats by designer Gabrielle Lewin would make a lovely foundation for your holiday table. Available in red or black.

Holiday Cards

2007-11-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

After spending a nice part of the afternoon working on handmade bookmarks, I took a break and selected our holiday cards. The block print Reindeer from Artful Sentiments became the choice this year. Even the envelope has a hand-printed coordinating image. The fact that I looked out my window into the snowy woods really influenced my decision.

Thankful

2007-11-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

It was five years ago today that I met my husband on an Internet date in Newburyport, so it is an extra special Thanksgiving for us. I am thankful to be spending a quiet day at home with my husband and dogs. After a hike out our back door we will come back and spend the afternoon making homemade pasta! I think this may become a new Thanksgiving tradition. Snow is coming in later today, so we will stay warm with a roaring fire in the woodstove, fresh ravioli and nice red wine. I hope each of you will enjoy a special day with everyone you love.

Salt & Pepper Orbs

2007-11-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

Made from recycled glass, these Salt & Pepper Orbs by Andi Kovel will add a unique touch to your table. A large cork stopper helps make them easy to refill.

A Kinder, Gentler Coat Hook

2007-11-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Just as I was about to order the Eames' Hang It All for our entryway, I discovered the Bach. Winner of the International Housewares Association Product Design Competition, this hook prevents that collar bulge that can stretch and distort fabric and ruin your favorite wool pea coat. And at a price of less than $50 for six electro-polished, solid stainless steel hooks, my winter coat storage worries are over.

Tosai Table

2007-11-19T09:32:00.001-07:00

Designed by Peter Maly for Conde House, the Tosai Table is simply elegant. Available in either walnut or white oak, the eye is drawn to the twisted steel legs.

"The Tosai collection connects traditional woodcraft and Japanese interior with the design tradition of the German Bauhaus which Peter Maly, the designer of Tosai, claims to be his main influence."

Into the Night

2007-11-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Slip into the smoky, dark and seductive new collection from Mrs. and Me. The luxurious Into the Night collection features a fabulous array of coverings for the bedroom and living room. Very dramatic, yet restful at the same time.

Favor Boxes

2007-11-15T07:49:00.002-07:00

I think these Favor Boxes from Paper Orchid are adorable. They will be perfect for those little stocking stuffer gifts for co-workers and neighbors, or stock up early and save for Valentine's Day candy for your sweetheart.

Red Balloon Lamp

2007-11-15T07:43:00.002-07:00

The Balloon Lamp uses a red LED light and two coin batteries to turn a balloon into a beautiful source of light, that lasts over 100 hours. This is of course a cluster of many, but the idea works well in smaller numbers. Also available in white.

Who Needs a Headset?

2007-11-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

Forget about a Bluetooth headset when you can go retro! Hulger's Penelope Phone (in a variety of colors) really makes a statement: wannabe Luddite.

Fruit Up Front

2007-11-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

For only $1,800 you could elevate your fruit to an art form in Designfenzider's Fruit Bowl 2.5.

Serving Up Style

2007-11-09T21:23:00.001-07:00

The collection of serving platters and trays at Violet will help you be the perfect hostess. Or in my case, guests will be so distracted by the beautiful serving ware that they won't notice the undercooked potatoes!

Hummingbird & Scotch Elm Platter
Fabricated Tray in Ginko Leaf

Magnolia & Baby's Breath Platter

Fabricated Tray in Vintage Leaf

Must Have Books

2007-11-07T07:53:00.001-07:00

In Michael Webb's Modernism Reborn: Mid-Century American Houses, the focus is on saving these homes. His book provides a plethora of design ideas we can steal for use in our very own living rooms, but also tells the often-captivating behind-the-scenes stories of each great home it showcases.

Charlotte and Peter Fiell's Scandinavian Design is the all-you-need guide includes a detailed look at Scandinavian furniture, glass, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, metalware and industrial design from 1900 to the present day.

Scandinavian Country by Magnus Englund and Chrystina Schmidt celebrates a way of life that combines comfort, elegance and simplicity with a strong love of nature.

Wisteria

2007-11-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling all cozy at home after looking through Wisteria's new holiday gift catalog. Here are a few of my favorite new items:

Birch Wreath

Vase Trio

Midnight in Morocco Votives

Stone Teardrop Tealight Holders

Harlequin

2007-11-05T09:14:00.001-07:00

Harlequin is the premier British destination for luxurious fabrics and wallpapers. Here is a sampling of the rich colors and textures from their latest collections.

Embrace is a feature collection of dramatic cut velvet weaves including flamboyant oversized florals, and contemporary trails.

Verve is a highly contemporary and individual collection of weaves comprising retro geometrics to graphic embroideries.

An über-cool wallpaper collection, Virtue has been created to compliment the Verve weaves but has a strong personality all of it's own. Ideally-suited for stunning feature walls, Virtue combines funky plains, smart stripes, retro geometrics and modern trails to complement the Verve Weaves.

An exuberant collection, Ziva combines classic opulence with contemporary chic. A modern twist on a timeless theme, Ziva is a sophisticated range of silk and cotton damasks on an accessible scale.

Romaine is a free-spirited, decorative collection of eclectic prints, bohemian embroideries, exotic weaves and versatile wallpapers, which has been inspired by the patterns and rich colors of gypsy folklore.

In My Back Yard

2007-11-04T09:16:00.001-07:00

Here a few of the charming items created by DaWanda seller In My Back Yard: patches and pins, pendants and scarves, magnets and gocco prints, and other lovely things, all handmade in a little old cottage with a big garden in New Zealand.

Mix Tape Cozy

2007-11-04T09:07:00.001-07:00

Feeling nostalgic? Disguise your IPod in these old school cozies from DaWanda seller Moxie Madness. Hand screen printed on heavy duty denim.

NEW! Dwell Kitchen Blog

2007-11-01T07:24:00.000-07:00

Dwell has just launched a Kitchen Blog for our appliance-obsessed readers. Americans will spend nearly $80 million this year on kitchen design! If you will be one of those, check the blog for daily updates.

Not to Mention Christmas, but...

2007-11-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

Let the holiday barrage begin (at least I waited until November). Although I'm not really doing any gift buying this early in the year, I am starting my search for holiday cards and gift wrap. I just reviewed the new holiday collection from Caroline Gardner, and here are some of my favorite items:

Dark Trees & Flakes Gift Bags

Bells on Silver Gift Wrap

Pink Reindeer Cards

Peace on Earth Cards

No More Tears

2007-10-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

Except for the ever-so-mild shallot, chopping onions leaves me in tears. And since I love to cook, this is something that occurs on a regular basis. Which is why I am beyond thrilled to find the Onion Action Goggles. No longer will it have to be a mad chopping frenzy and rush to wash up and dry my eyes. They also come in black or white if your preference isn't for pink.

Flyaway Favors

2007-10-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

I decided to get "Martha crafty" for my friends this Halloween and made these Flyaway Favors, seen in Martha Stewart Living. I personalized them by hand-stamping the recipient's name and a "Best Witches" greeting. They were easy and fun, and of course filled with candy corn! Have a ghoulishly good Halloween!

Woofy

2007-10-29T12:59:00.001-07:00

"Woofy is your new friend–a multifunctional product or a personal way to conceal cables. Woofy never needs to be walked, fed or trained. He can play with children of all ages. Woofy can conceal your cables in his tummy and he will always be there when you need him."

Robot Candy

2007-10-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Portland, OR-based Robot Candy has a new line of whimsical cards that are guaranteed to make you smile.

If the cards don't do it for you, try one of their vintage-inspired ceramic tile coasters.

They also create cute light switch plates and magnet sets- the perfect stocking stuffers (not that anyone is even thinking of Christmas yet...). You can also check out their Esty shop as well.

Perfect Poached Eggs

2007-10-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

I got a set of two Poach Pods last year on vacation. These silicone pods float in simmering water and really do make the best poached eggs. The flexible silicone makes them easy to pop out onto your plate. The cute green color makes them easy to find in the kitchen drawer early in the morning!

Zenza Hancrafted Lighting

2007-10-24T07:42:00.001-06:00

If you're in a Moroccan mood, check out the gorgeous lighting at Zenza. These luminous creations will lend an intimate ambiance to any home.

Sea Urchin Cellars

2007-10-22T19:23:00.001-06:00

I think these Sea Urchin Cellars at Napa Home are perfect for any mid-century home. Made with nail heads and antiqued, they come with serving spoons and are perfect for all your groovy entertaining needs!

Cycloc

2007-10-22T19:15:00.000-06:00

The Cycloc is so going on my husband's gift list. This is just the thing to spur along the Big Garage Clean-Up of 2007. The black ones are even made from 100% post-industrial plastic.

Ghoulish Greetings

2007-10-22T16:38:00.000-06:00

Fun Halloween cards from Paper Relics: